Where to Elope in the U.S.| In The Alpenglow
If you’re from the United States, it can be easy to romanticize traveling to the rest of the world. It’s common to dream of white sand beaches in the Caribbean, sipping drinks on a warm piazza in Italy, cruising on a boat between the Greek Islands, aaaand I could go on. But there is a plethora of world renowned beauty right in our backyard! When thinking about where to elope, I love encouraging couples to imagine all that their elopement could be amidst the epic landscapes of this country, right here in the U.S. The United States is home to so many underrated beautiful places.
There are so many pockets of glory, both well-known and secret across the country– even alps just as magnificent as those abroad! If you love being outside like me, you’ll find endless world-class hikes, national parks and forest lands, and the sweetest little mountain towns thriving on a lively outdoor culture. Countless options for a breathtaking United States elopement are just a road trip/quick flight away. Read on for my favorite spots if you’re trying to decide where to elope in the U.S.!
Top 5 U.S. Elopement Destinations
+ Washington
+ Utah
+ Alaska
+ Arizona
+ Montana
U.S Washington Elopement
Aaaand to kick things off: the beautiful (and sometimes hard to believe) diversity of Washington state! I truly haven’t lived anywhere like it. To be able to drive just a few hours and have access to dense forest, towering mountain ranges, rugged coastal cliffs, sprawling deserts with endless starry skies — it’s such a gift and a place that I always encourage my couples to consider. I truly think that any background you’re dreaming of for your vows can be found here!
Also, you get the added bonus of a photographer that knows her stuff. 😉 My expretise as a Washington elopement photographer means that I can help you find exactly where to elope in this corner of the U.S — less crowded, extra scenic, and exactly what you pictured!
Best Places in the U.S for an Elopement in Washington
North Cascades:
I still can’t quite believe this area is in the Pacific Northwest and not in Europe. It’s often referred to as the “American Alps”, and it’s easy to see why. The white capped peaks are so breathtaking, and you’ll find them surrounded by the most spectacular alpine lakes that glow a bright blue (from glacial runoff! what!!). It’s only a few hours from the Seattle airport and has plenty of great cabins to rent for an event. I love spending time up in this paradise and love exploring its majesty with my couples!
Olympic Peninsula:
This is the area that you definitely picture when you think of Washington.That misty air, moss covered, moody goodness that made the Twilight movies so popular! The Olympic peninsula is one of the most beautiful, untouched places in the United States. There is actually a section of the rainforest where you can experience what it’s like to have ZERO man-made sounds because airplanes don’t fly directly over! SO cool. It’s a serene, otherworldly section of our world that often goes unexplored. You can hike mountains, explore rich rainforest, or take in the glory of the Pacific ocean on a rocky beach. This is where I first fell in love with the state of Washington and I’d love to share its beauty with you!
Leavenworth:
Oh, this place is the sweetest. It’s most well-known for the town, which is an absolutely picturesque Bavarian town with sweet little shops, amazing German food, and fun activities in any season. They have a Christmas tree lighting and ice-skating in the winter, a massive Oktoberfest celebration in the fall, and beautiful mountain views year-round. But aside from the town, it also has access to some incredible outdoor areas. And because it is a little closer to Eastern Washington, you get warmer temperatures and more vivid seasons. I absolutely love going in the fall, because of all the rich color. This is a great place to go if you’re looking for a fun home base for family and friends that is still close to scenic outdoor spots!
Want more information and inspiration for an elopement in Washington?Check out these blogs:
Best time to visit Washington
The best time for an elopement here would by from late July through the middle of October — this will give you the BEST of Washington weather. If you’re wanting wildflowers and the warmer temps in the mountains, I’d recommend end of July through early September. If you’re more of a fall person, the vibrant colors and beautiful larches will start to show at the end of September through mid-October (larches will typically peak October 5-15).
Best Washington Elopement Activities
+ Hiking
+ Climbing
+ Backpacking
Eloping in the U.S, Utah
If you’re wanting an elopement that isn’t just an outdoor adventure with mountain backdrops, but something a little more otherworldly and jaw dropping…Utah is your place. It has all of the draw of other outdoor destinations, but some of the most unique and rugged locations for where to elope in the U.S. You’ll find snowy peaks, red rock towers, giant sandstone canyons, and more. I’m blown away every time I visit this beautiful state by its one-of-a-kind glory and ability to burn itself in your memory.
Best Places in the U.S for an Elopement in Utah
Moab:
Moab is a small artistic town that offers plenty of jaw-dropping destinations for your Utah Elopement. Its small-town vibes make it one of my favorite desert towns to visit, while also being right next to the famous red-rock formations that draw in so many people. If you choose a Moab elopement, you open yourself up to a plethora of outdoor activities such as hiking, rafting, camping, mountain biking, climbing, and more! You can even add an element of adventure with off-roading jeep treks or helicopter tours.
Zion:
Zion National Park and its surrounding areas are home to some of my favorite pieces of scenery to elope in Utah. The heights of the crimson canyon walls & sandstone mountains are unlike anything I’ve ever seen and have been the backdrop to countless epic adventures. The park is filled to the brim with humbling hikes, rare flora & fauna, slot canyons, waterfalls, world class-climbing routes, and so much more.
Bonneville Salt Flats:
The Salt Flats are located in northwestern Utah, near Salt Lake City. If you haven’t been to the Salt Flats before, imagine a spreading sea of white sand flanked by mountains in the distance. They are an expansive flatland reminiscent of the moon with endless white salty sand. Nearby the Bonneville Salt Flats are the Great Salt Lake, one of the largest saltwater lakes in the world, and Antelope Island, the biggest island within the lake hosting so much vibrant wildlife. The natural sandy tones, and desolate environments of each of these places create such a distinctly beautiful ambiance for an elopement in the desert!
If you’re leaning toward a Utah elopement, you’re in luck! I have more blog content for planning:
Best Time to Visit Utah
For an Utah elopement, spring and fall will be your best bet for an ideal temperature. But, don’t count out the winters! This time of year can make for an extra special and more secluded adventure. You also can’t go wrong with a shoulder season month like May or October. The weather will still be beautiful and you’ll avoid the crowds at the more popular outdoor hotspots!
Best Utah Elopement Activities
+ Off roading (adventure treks)
+ Swimming
+ Star gazing
+ Canyoneering
U.S Alaska Elopement
Looking to elope in nature, but ramp things up a bit? Don’t forget about the magnificence of Alaska! This incredible state is an outdoor-lovers paradise, but isn’t quite as unapproachable as you may think. Yes, it is pretty rugged and wild, but it is absolutely possible to have an elopement here without being an adventure junkie. I love taking couples to Alaska because you will see and experience things that you never imagined possible for where to elope in the U.S. Active glaciers, endless wildlife spotting, completely untouched and rugged terrain, and some of the most secluded wilderness in the country. It may involve a bit more planning, but WOW will it be worth it to experience this unforgettable frontier.
Best places in the U.S for an Elopement in Alaska
Hatcher Pass (near Anchorage):
Hatcher Pass is an alpine paradise featuring really unique lodging opportunities that show off the stunning views of the Talkeetna Mountains, gold mining artifacts, and year-round outdoor adventures like hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, berry picking, and more. You can even tour an abandoned gold mine nestled in the most gorgeous mountain valley! It’s also close and easily accessible from Anchorage if you’re wanting to stay in a larger town.
Denali National Park (near Talkeetna):
This is definitely the crowning jewel of the Alaskan wilderness! Magnificent wildlife, vast tundra, and the towering Denali are highlights of this world-famous national park. The granite peaks and snowy summits of Denali National Park and Preserve cover 160 miles of the Alaska Range and are so tall they are often lost in the clouds. Dominating this stunning landscape is Denali — the highest peak in North America.
Kenai Peninsula (near Seward, Homer and Cooper Landing):
The Kenai Peninsula is truly an adventure lover’s dream, with world-class fishing, river rafting, wildlife viewing and photography. You can hike to the ice-blue Exit Glacier in Seward or kayak along the coves of Kachemak Bay near Homer. You could look out for moose and bears in the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, a 2 million acre refuge that encompasses mountains, tundra, lakes, and forests. Or you can spot whales and other marine life and marvel at towering tidewater glaciers in Kenai Fjords National Park, one of the most popular national parks in Alaska. You definitely won’t run out of activities to do and amazing sights to see in this area!
Best Time to Visit Alaska
To enjoy all that the Alaskan wilderness has to offer, I’d suggest May and June or August and September for an elopement. These months have the most enjoyable temps and opportunities for amazing scenery, but without the massive tourist influx in July!
Best Alaska Elopement Activities
+ Helicopter ride
+ Glacier tours/hiking
+ Ice caves
+ Northern lights sightings
Eloping in the U.S, Arizona
I think Arizona tends to get written off because people assume that Utah has all of the same things but better, but man are people missing out. Arizona has really blown me away with its beauty, and is one of my favorite places to recommend for where to elope in the U.S. It has more range than I thought possible, with its southern areas showcasing more of that typical warm, desert feel with forests of Saguaro cacti — but the north holds incredible red rock formations, snowy mountain towns, stunning rivers, and countless scenic overlooks for an elopement. Arizona is also one of my favorite elopement destinations because of all the massive and luxurious rental houses that you can rent for an extremely affordable rate. This state is such a great destination if you’re looking for warm, beautiful, and affordable luxury for your friends and family!
Best Places in the U.S for an Elopement in Arizona
Sedona:
This famous town is nestled among some of the most breathtaking scenery in Arizona and is a really great mix of elegant luxury and rugged adventure. There is charming man-made beauty, like the Chapel of the Holy Cross. The chapel is open for weddings, but does require you to begin the booking process a good 9 months in advance. There’s also the stunning village of Tlaquepaque is nestled under the shade of beautiful sycamore trees on the banks of Oak Creek. In addition, Sedona offers jaw-dropping natural wonders, like the iconic Devil’s Bridge – a sandstone bridge you reach by a natural sandstone staircase, with panoramic views over the whole valley.
Page:
Page is a true gateway to the breathtaking beauty of the Southwest. From the magnificent red rock formations of Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend to the waters of Lake Powell and the Colorado River, this area has so much to explore. There are also plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, boating, fishing, and off-roading, as well as vibrant events and festivals.
Superstition Mountains:
The Superstition Mountains are a craggy, volcanic mountain range just east of Mesa. Towering nearly 6,000 feet above the Sonoran desert, they are among the most photographed sites in Arizona, second only to the Grand Canyon! These gorgeous red rocks are a perfect, easily accessibly day trip from Phoenix for those looking to venture out of the city to explore the scenic beauty of the Sonoran Desert and the lure and myths of the Old West.
You can head to this blog to learn more about eloping in Arizona!
Best Time to Visit Arizona
I’d recommend visiting Arizona in either the Spring or the Fall. As gorgeous as the desert climate is, it can be a bit extreme in the heat — so definitely look at those shoulder months for an elopement. More specifically, looking at March through May or September through November.
Best Arizona Elopement Activities
+ Jeep tours
+ Slot canyon tours
+ Hiking
+ Swimming
+ Kayaking
U.S Montana Elopement
Montana is one of the most peaceful places I have ever been. The way that the sprawling planes lead gracefully into rugged and wild Mountain peaks takes my breath away. The culture of the state is also so fun, with the old school pioneer towns with tons of character you’ll find beautiful meadows, alpenglow views, massive lakes, and even rainbow colored rock formations! Such a unique place when thinking about where to elope in the U.S. Each pocket of Montana has its own diverse beauty, ready to bear witness to your most cherished memories.
Best Places in the U.S for an Elopement in Montana
Glacier National Park:
Glacier National Park is a popular Montana elopement location for several reasons. Its vast expanse of forests, lakes, waterfalls, meadows, and towering mountain ranges are among them. Each draws in so many visitors to admire their beauty. Some of my favorite elements include the rainbow rocks carpeting the bottom of the lakes, the vibrant valleys carved by glacial moraines, and the abundant wildlife. If you’re looking for places to elope in Montana that will align with your desire for adventure, Glacier National Park is a good place to start.
Bozeman + Big Sky:
Bozeman is such a unique city — it was voted the most beautiful city in Montana and has become a haven for travelers! A mix of the modern, classic, and natural, Bozeman draws in a wide variety of people, and offers a nice contrast to the raw beauty Montana otherwise showcases. Big Sky is just as charming, with its renowned downhill ski and mountain bike trails. Nestled in the mountains, these towns make for the perfect home base with their convenient outdoor access for your Montana elopement.
Flathead National Forest:
Flathead National Forest is another magnificent choice for your Montana elopement. This vast evergreen forest and spread of nature has several features that make it worthy of an elopement. For example, the Jewel Basin is a popular hiking area, and one of the best places to elope in Montana because of the abundance of mountain peaks, sweeping greenery, and crystal, clear waters. Furthermore, Flathead Lake makes for an incredible location. This natural freshwater lake is the largest in the west and is listed as the prettiest lake in Montana. Flathead Lake is a winner for those looking for an unforgettable elopement location.
If you want more inspiration for a Montana elopement, head to my blog post here.
Best Time to Visit Montana
The best time for an elopement in Montana would be between mid-July and early October. The mountainous areas will not only be more accessible, but will also be showing off with their fields of wildflowers and refreshing lake dips in the summer. And in the fall, you’ll have the privilege of witnessing the most spectacular autumn landscape thanks to the bright yellow of the aspen forests.
Best Elopement Activities in Montana
+ hiking
+ skiing
+ backpacking
+ climbing
So, there ya have it! My top recommendations for places to elope in the U.S. I hope this guide either further convinced you of this country’s magnificence OR shifted your perspective from the dream of far-away destination elopements to the underrated beauty right in front of you. There are so many sacred and glorious outdoor spaces to unlock, and I hope I can serve as a guide as you take it alllll in!
If you’d like more help as you plan — and a professional third wheel to capture the beauty of your day — I would love to come alongside you. Head to the link below to start a conversation with me:
