If you know me you know how OBSESSED I am with National Parks. After visiting dozens and dozens of National Parks, Glacier HAS got to be in my top 3. If you are looking for incredible views and a backdrop that quite literally looks unreal, Glacier National Park in Montana is your PLACE! Just imagine your dream elopement against a backdrop of pristine teal lakes, the greenest trees you’ve ever seen and the world’s most majestic mountains. Glacier National Park sets the stage for a truly ethereal and fairytale elopement experience. What makes it even more magical is the flexibility it offers – being such a large park, your elopement can be as private or as shared as you want.
If you really cherish your alone time, Glacier makes a perfect location for your elopement. Picture this: secluded shores, tranquil trails, just you and your partner, completely engulfed in the serene embrace of nature. BUT if you are looking for a location to accomodate a larger group, Glacier has plenty of inviting spots and amphitheaters where you can gather your guests to witness your love story unfold.
The best part about it all? You don’t need to be an avid hiker to access these amazing locations; some are conveniently reachable by car or just off a small trail. Regardless of your vision, Glacier National Park offers a diverse array of settings to make your elopement truly yours.
This location highlighted in this blog post today is Hidden Lake Trail. Hidden Lake is a 3.4 mile hike each way with a moderate elevation gain of around 1,300 feet from the trailhead to the overlook. While it does have a few uphill sections, it’s relatively accessible and has a trail bridge.
As this destination is a popular choice for those looking to elope, planning ahead is essential. Securing a permit is a must, and I recommend opting for a weekday ceremony instead of a weekend to avoid the larger crowds. While July and August have ideal weather conditions in the park, June and September offer a more intimate atmosphere, though you should be prepared for possible winter weather.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to make your Glacier National Park elopement dream a reality:
1. Choose a Location: Select the perfect spot for your ceremony within the park, considering the season, weather, and any potential construction. Before you go, check out the current conditions page of the National Park Service site. For a list of locations, visit this link. If you need assistance, I am here to help!
2. Apply for a Permit: Download the permit application about half way down this page. Here, you’ll provide specific details such as ceremony times, locations, photographer’s contact information, and a list of equipment. This list should include photography gear, chairs, instruments, and speakers. Don’t forget to list all participants, from guests to the officiant, photographer, and the couple. Be aware that the number of permitted vehicles allowed depends on the size of your party:
- Up to 20 people: 4 vehicles
- 21-60 people: 6 vehicles
- 61-100 people: 10 vehicles
- 100-250 people: 15 vehicles
3. Submit Your Application: Email your completed permit application to glac_sup@nps.gov.
4. Pay the Application Fee: Head to this link and pay the $125 application fee on pay.gov. You’ll receive a receipt for your records, and the Special Park Uses Office will automatically receive a copy.
5. Permit Review: Once your application and payment are received, a park employee will review your submission. They’ll reach out via email or phone to provide a preliminary permit. You’ll have 14 days to sign and return this preliminary permit to glac_sup@nps.gov. When you sign the permit, you’re agreeing to abide by the permit conditions and confirming the accuracy of the details. Note that no changes can be made after the permit has been signed.
6. Receive Your Permit: A fully executed permit will be emailed to you. Make sure to have a paper copy of the permit (and extra copies for your photographer & officiant!) on-site on your special day.
Now that all the not so fun paperwork is complete, it’s time to really soak in the moments leading up to your special day. If you pursue me as your photographer, your love story will be told organically and unscripted against a backdrop of breathtaking beauty – a truly unforgettable experience that’s worth every single moment.
Eloping in Glacier National Park is not just a wedding; it’s truly intimate adventure in one of nature’s most incredible settings. It’s a journey that promises forever memories and a love story etched against the canvas of the great outdoors. So, what are you waiting for?? Take the leap and make your elopement an experience to remember surrounded by the magic of Glacier National Park.
Being a photographer who has explored nearly all of the United States’ National Parks, I can genuinely affirm that Glacier National Park holds a special place in my heart. It’s a place you will never, ever forget, and a piece of your heart will be left there with it. It offers the perfect backdrop for capturing stunning documentary-style images of your special day.
See you there?? Reach out & let’s get this started!!
All my love,
Jaimee
