Grand Tetons Elopement Guide

One of the best parts of my time living in southwest Idaho has been the proximity to the Grand Tetons! I’ve been able to enjoy countless great hikes, scenic campsites, wildlife tours, and more. The beauty never seems to end, and this park makes for some of the most memorable adventures.

My heart is always to 1. create space for you and your love to reflect on your story and share your vows with a beautiful backdrop, and 2. to make the elopement planning process feel less scary and overwhelming! I hope that in this guide I can ease some of the stress and allow you to focus on the excitement and joy that comes with promising forever.

How to Elope in the Grand Tetons

 + Landscape

+ Best Time of Year

+ Favorite trails

+ Places to Stay

+ Permits & Fees

+ Elopement Packing List

Landscape of Grand Tetons National Park

Oh, the Grand Tetons. It doesn’t matter how much time you spend amongst their peaks — you’ll never get tired of their magnificence. The stark contrast between the rolling plains and the ruggedness of the mountains, the rich colors in the spring and fall, and the abundant wildlife make for a landscape that will be forever imprinted on your mind and heart. I love recommending this area for elopements for so many reasons: the views are unparalleled, the town is quaint and picturesque, and the proximity to Yellowstone is unbeatable.

Best Time of Year for a Grand Tetons Elopement

The best time of year to plan an elopement in this area would be early June through mid-July! The snow will be mostly (if not completely) melted, with warm temperatures during the day. But be prepared for a DROP at night! It can get down to freezing temps at night and early morning.

Another great time would be September through early October. The fall colors in the Tetons are incredible and the temperature is mild and cool throughout the day.

Finally, don’t be scared of the shoulder months! From March through May (snow will be melting away starting early May) and November, the Tetons are still really accessible in the snow for snowshoeing and there will be a lot less people!

Favorite Trails in the Grand Tetons

Taggart Lake

This is a beautiful, easy (3.8 miles total) hike through the forest to a lake at base of the big Teton! It’s stunning any time of year, but it’s a great option if you want a snowshoeing elopement in the winter. My favorite time to visit is at sunrise, when you can witness the pink lighting on the ridges and enjoy the privacy of fewer visitors!

Delta Lake

This is a tougher one, but worth every mile! It’s 7.4 miles total and takes you to a scenic lake. It’s the perfect spot for an alpine dip and provides some epic views for vow reading.

Jenny Lake

A moderate hike at 7.9 miles, the Jenny Lake loop will give you easy access to breathtaking views and spots to access the waterfront.

Places to Stay for your Grand Tetons Elopement

The Tetons feel remote, but there are plenty of places to stay nearby. Jackson is a pioneer town with old town charm, great restaurants, lots of lodging options, and an iconic cowboy bar. In the town of Moran, you’ll find the Teton Cabins at Diamond Cross Ranch. This historic ranch is right outside the park and has incredible views of the Tetons right out your door. This is a great option if you want to have your family at your intimate ceremony and have everyone stay in the same area!

If you want something more rustic with more access to the park’s beauty, there are campsites, campgrounds and lodges in Grand Teton National Park.

Another great option for an elopement is Airbnbs! They are perfect for vow exchanges thanks to the privacy, beautiful views, lovely spaces for an intimate dinner with family, and more. Here is my own curated list of great stays in the area!

Permits & Fees

The one thing you’ll want to do before eloping in the park is apply for a special use permit! It’s a simple process and just requires a sign-off by park officials at least four weeks in advance of the ceremony. All you have to do is fill out the application here, email the completed form to GRTE_Visitor_Services@nps.gov along with the $200 application fee — then they’ll reach out when they receive your application! You can learn more about the process here.

Elopement Packing List

+ Permit for eloping in a national park! Check out this website to purchase one.

+ Marriage license

+ Bug spray and sunscreen

+ Warm layers

+ Rain jacket

+ Hand warmers

+ Clear umbrella for photos if it rains

+ Special elopement details: vow books, elopement signs, ring boxes, etc.

+ Any special national park details: elopement sign, park map, postcard, etc.

+ Hiking boots

+ Binoculars for the abundant wildlife viewing

+ An adventurous spirit!

I love to do things differently as a wedding photographer. I don’t just want to show up, provide a professional product and leave. The relational opportunity that’s present in this business to come alongside real people and document their love in a real way is too powerful for me to do this in a superficial way! I want to leave my clients with an experience that moved them deeply.

It would be an honor to do this for you. If you’re dreaming of a Grand Teton elopement and looking for a professional third wheel / adventure planner, I’m your gal.

Inquire here!