America, the beautiful.
Yes, we completely agree! The United States is home to 62 [yes, SIXTY TWO!] protected lands known as National Parks. In order for an area to be selected to be a National Park, it must have natural beauty, recreation opportunities, and unique geological features.
Wait a second...a beautiful location, fun things to do, and a distinctive setting? Sounds like National Parks can be a perfect place for an elopement!
Let's talk planning!
Of course, the fun part is figuring out what National Park resonates with you + your partner for your elopement day.
Craving geography that is from another planet? Some National Parks in that realm may be Death Valley National Park, Joshua Tree, White Sands, Canyonlands, and Arches, just to name a few. Most of those National Parks are located in the southwestern US!
If lush greenery and abundant foliage is what you are after, how about Redwood National Park, Great Smoky Mountains, Sequoia or Olympic National Park? Lots of trees and flora decorate those parks.
What about a National Park with epic lookouts, towering mountains and rugged terrain? We'd definitely recommend North Cascades National Park, Mount Rainier, Glacier National Park, Grand Teton, Denali, and Kings Canyon.
Of course, all of these choices are just the beginning of the 62 National Parks in the US, but they can help you hone in on where you are thinking of celebrating your elopement!
Maybe you have never been to the National Park you're considering, but have seen photos online that move you. This is where having an adventure elopement photographer in your corner can be very helpful! We put a lot of time and care into researching options for you, gathering details so that you + your partner can make an informed decision as to where to elope!
Once you've narrowed your options down, it's time to begin considering what time of year you'd like to elope! Some National Parks have roads that are closed for certain seasons [such as inclement weather during the winter], other National Parks may have construction or road work that could impact your day [usually each respective National Park websites are great at keeping tourists in the know!], and many National Parks have a very busy spring/summer season [we are looking at you, Yosemite!].
Weather can be a notable factor when it comes to your elopement, and in many National Parks, the weather can change quickly. Being prepared for anything is key! Jackets, headlamps [especially when planning a sunrise or sunset elopement], durable hiking boots, change of clothes, water, snacks, and a flexible attitude are necessary when involving the untamed wild of the outdoors.
Speaking of a sunrise or sunset elopement, we absolutely urge you to contemplate either as an option for your ceremony! Both sunrises and sunsets bring completely stunning, gorgeous light. There is nothing quite like a sunrise or sunset elopement in a National Park. Couple that with the fact that there will be a lot less people to compete with for trail space, and they also allow us to plan a full day of adventuring for you two during your elopement!
Your National Park Adventure Elopement: An All-Day Affair
Traditional weddings usually are an event that lasts all day, why can't your elopement day command the same attention?!
If we are hiking to your elopement spot, you should make sure there is plenty of time to take everything in and enjoy yourselves! The beauty of eloping is that the only timeline you are on is your own. No need for rushing, you want to be able to soak in the beauty of the National Park, and your love. We can help you craft a day that includes any hikes you are itching to try, the perfect ceremony spot, time for a meal and maybe a champagne toast...when you are planning an intentional elopement that is reflective of what you and your partner believe and love to do together, it's easy for your elopement to be a day full of adventure!
Okay! You've pinpointed the National Park where you're wanting to have your elopement, the date...now it's time to talk about permits! Yay!! [okay, so not really 'yay', but still very important!]
Do you realllllly need a permit?
YES.
Even if you are eloping just the two of you and your photographers, National Parks will require a Special Use Permit. These permits vary on price, depending on what National Park you have your sights set on. Anywhere from $50-$300, these permits are necessary to ensure smooth sailing on your elopement day [plus, we are always down for supporting the National Park Service and the work they do!]. High traffic National Parks like Yosemite allow you to apply for a permit up to a year in advance. That being said, the sooner you decide on a date, the better! This is because locations can book up quickly, and most National Parks, from Mount Rainier, to Glacier National Park, to Joshua Tree; require your permit application to be submitted no less than four weeks before your elopement date. So, it is best to err on the side of caution and submit your application ASAP!
Remember that National Parks are federally protected land, which means that they will have some restrictions on your elopement day. For example, pets are usually not allowed, you cannot throw inorganic material [such as confetti or glitter], and definitely no fires or sparklers!
[As an extra tip, if you really want to bring your new puppy, maybe consider eloping in a National Forest or State Park! They are usually a bit less restrictive,. and can absolutely be just as gorgeous.]
Please note that this article does not replace legal advice, because regulations and policies can change quickly when it comes to national parks. Couples should do their due diligence when researching permits for eloping in a national park.
We love helping couples dream big and plan an elopement day that is truly theirs. What better backdrop than a National Park?!
If you're ready to get started on your elopement at a National Park (or anywhere else)
Send Us A Message!