Why elope in Alaska?

Alaska isn’t called “The Last Frontier” for nothing. With towering mountains, sparkling glaciers, and endless coastline all in one state, it’s the perfect destination for couples craving adventure, privacy, and unforgettable scenery. Whether you’re dreaming of a glacier ceremony, a coastal elopement, or a mountain overlook, Alaska makes it possible to elope and honeymoon at the same time.

As Alaska elopement photographers, we help couples plan incredible elopements here, and we’re excited to share everything we’ve learned, from the best seasons and locations to what to pack and how to make your day completely yours.

Updated - October 2026

Why eloping in Alaska is worth it

Alaska is one of the few places where you truly don’t have to compromise. Love the mountains? Want the coast? Want glaciers on the same day? Alaska has it all. Here’s why couples keep coming back:

  • Epic scenery everywhere you look: Glaciers, fjords, alpine lakes, mountains, and lush forests.
  • Privacy and intimacy: With Alaska’s vast wilderness, even popular spots feel secluded.
  • Adventure opportunities: Kayaking, hiking, dog sledding, or even helicopter elopements.
  • Wildlife encounters: Moose, bears, eagles, and whales: nature’s own wedding guests.

Winter brings snow-covered mountains, frozen landscapes, and with a little luck...the Northern Lights. Shorter days mean less time for outdoor activities, but they also give us beautiful, low-angle light for photography. It's a great season for snowmobiling, dog sledding, skiing, or a cozy cabin elopement. We especially like February and March, when there's typically plenty of snow but daylight hours are starting to get longer. 

Summer brings long days, warmer temperatures, and lots of access to some of Alaska's most incredible landscapes. It's a great time for glacier hikes, kayaking, fishing, and mountain elopements. June through August is peak tourist season, but May and September can offer fewer crowds (our favorite months here). And with the sun staying up late, we have plenty of daylight to explore and photograph your day without feeling rushed.

Summer (long days -- May - Sept.)

Winter (short days -- Nov - Mar )

When planning an Alaska elopement, weather and daylight are two big things to consider. Rather than breaking down every month of the year, we like to keep things simple and divide Alaska into two seasons: summer and winter. Or, better yet, Long Days and Short Days.

Best time of year to elope in Alaska 

Book your Elopement Day

Melissa & Nicholas  |  Seward, AK

“Scenic Vows were incredible to work with and made our elopement beyond what we could have ever dreamed!!!

Becky and Brian as they helped us feel confident in our decision and made the entire day fun and stress free. From assistance in planning, to an incredible ceremony, and phenomenal photos that we will cherish for the rest of our life we couldn't recommend this duo enough."

Where to elope in Alaska

The adventure of eloping in Alaska promises an experience like no other. With its vast wilderness, towering mountains, and pristine landscapes, the Last Frontier offers an abundance of breathtaking locations for those of you seeking an intimate and unforgettable ceremony. Whether you dream of exchanging vows standing on a glacier, beside tranquil mountain lakes, or overlooking rugged coastlines, Alaska provides stunning backdrops to make your elopement truly magical. We have fallen in love with several locations and are listing a few below, but keep in mind, Alaska is HUGE and there is always more to explore!

You can also see more about all of our favorite places in the  Best Places to Elope in Alaska post.



Situated on the Kenai Peninsula, this area full of beautiful islands and quaint seaside villages. And, because of its direct access to Kenai Fjords NP, it's packed with incredible marine wildlife like orcas, seals, and sea otters. We love Seward for its small-town feel, local breweries, and welcoming feel. It's natural beauty is perfect for your Alaska elopement.

Resurrection Bay (Seward, Alaska)

For a deeper look at everything Seward has to offer, check out our Seward Elopement Guide.


Hatcher Pass, nestled in the Talkeetna Mountains, offers breathtaking views of rugged peaks, alpine meadows, and winding trails. A rich history as a gold-mining area adds an extra layer of intrigue to its scenic beauty. Summer is the ideal time to explore, typically from July through mid-September, while winter transforms the area into a wonderland perfect for skiing.

Hatcher Pass

Have a look into Hatcher Pass Elopement here in this beautiful elopement story. 


Elope with us

Where do you want to elope?

Do any of these locations really call to you? Alaska is huge, and there is sooo much to explore there, with bad ass elopement locations seemingly around every turn on the road. We'll keep exploring so we can suggest that perfect location for you, but if you have a spot you've already chosen .....let's hear it!

Homer, Alaska, known as the "Halibut Fishing Capital of the World," is a cozy coastal town situated at the southern tip of the Kenai Peninsula. With its stunning views of Kachemak Bay, diverse marine wildlife, and vibrant arts scene, Homer blends outdoor adventure with local charm, offering activities like kayaking, float plane tours, hiking, and fishing.   It's another perfect base for a beautiful Alaska elopement. 


Homer, AK

For a deeper look at everything Seward has to offer, check out our Seward Elopement Guide.


Valdez has become one of our favorite towns to visit in Alaska. Its stunning coastal scenery, including towering mountains, glaciers, and fjords is absolutely captivating. Known as the "Switzerland of Alaska," Valdez entices elopement adventurers with opportunities for kayaking with iceburgs, glacier views, and wildlife watching. Valdez is an ideal base for couples wanting both excitement and comfort on their elopement day.

Valdez, AK

Elopement PAckages

Alaska Elopement Packages

We love crafting unforgettable experiences for couples like you, who crave adventure and natural beauty on your big day. Not only are both of us your elopement photographers, we are your partners in planning, offering a range of personalized services to make your dream elopement a reality.


Check out some of what's included in our Alaska Elopement Packages:

‣  Two photographers documenting your day from different perspectives
‣  Coverage starting at 6 hours, with full-day options available
‣  Personalized location recommendations and scouting
‣  Help with permits, logistics, and building your timeline
‣  Vendor recommendations and activity ideas
‣  Optional officiating with a personalized ceremony
‣  All-inclusive options - accommodations, activities, and vendors 
‣  Starting at $6000

How to get a marriage license in Alaska

Obtaining a marriage license for your Alaska elopement is pretty easy but does require some preparation. We’ve listed below the basic process for you to follow.  

  • Fill out the marriage license application on the Alaska Vital Records website.
  • Notarize and mail it with copies of IDs and a $60 check/money order.
  • Valid for 90 days; 3-day waiting period applies if applying in person.
  • Return the license to the office after the ceremony (your officiant can handle this).

We walk through the process here on our blog post, including some tips to make it easy and skip any possible headaches!  Have a look here: How to Get an Alaska Marriage License

Where to stay for your adventure elopement

Recommendations from a couple of seasoned Alaska explorers (and traveling elopement photographers)

Salted Roots Alaska – Seward, AK
Think Alaskan lodging with a modern twist for this beachfront boutique inn. With plenty of interactive community spaces and several lodging options like A-frames, cottages, and a renovated retro bus, it’s a great setting for an intimate wedding with your closest loved ones. 

Orca Island Cabins – Resurrection Bay, AK
At the mouth of Resurrection Bay, this private island glamping experience will completely immerse you with marine wildlife right outside your yurt. Enjoy whale watching and kayaking or sit back and appreciate the panoramic views from your very own private deck. 

Valley View Guest House Airbnb – Palmer, AK
Located just across the Matanuska river from Palmer, this recently remodeled stay has unmatched views overlooking the Mat-Su Valley. Enjoy the unobstructed views in the covered porch from the barrel sauna or the hot tub.


Lakefront Modern Bungalow– Valdez, AK
Crave the ocean but long for the mountains too? Get both at this lakeside bungalow in Valdez, and watch the sunset behind the mountains while you’re sitting on your private deck overlooking Robe Lake -- just minutes from Valdez and the Prince William Sound.

Pro tip: Renting a van or staying multiple nights when eloping in Alaska lets you explore remote locations at your own pace.

Elope with us

Need some help on where to stay?

We got you on this.  You can plan on staying in a luxurious cabin in the woods or on the edge of a mountain that hangs over the sea.  Or maybe you'd rather rent a van and travel around Alaska for a bit to explore on your own (hint - This is the way!)?  Let us know you're preference and stress no more.

What to wear for an elopement?

Layers are key! Alaska weather is unpredictable, so err on the side of caution and don’t be afraid to ‘overpack’.

Here are the essentials:


‣  Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, and we always bring a light puffy jacket too! They pack up small enough to bring everywhere! 
‣  In winter temps, wear thermal leggings under your dress/pants
‣  Warm wool socks and waterproof boots are also key in the winter
‣  We always recommend bringing a waterproof and windproof outer layer no matter what time of year
‣  Comfortable footwear with good traction and support goes a long way

If you'd like a little help choosing a dress, or an elopement outfit, be sure to check these out: How to Pick the Perfect Elopement Wedding Dress or Top Tips for an Elopement Outfit. 

Unique elopement ideas in Alaska

Helicopter elopement in Seward

Feels among the Fjords

Make your base camp at one of the most breathtaking cabins, on the shores of a lagoon full of iceburgs! After a first look in the wildflowers, we'll kayak through the icebergs to find an unforgettable place for your ceremony. From here, you'll be picked up by a helicopter for a vow exchange truly in the wild. 
Wrap the day with champagne, a campfire, and a starry sky fit for the gods. 


Stay at the Alaskan-chic Salted Roots cabins, where we’ll meet you for your first look before heading out by water taxi to a private beach for your ceremony. Then, it's time for a helicopter adventure, stopping at a few incredible locations aong the coast. Finish the day with your first dance atop a bluff perched high above the ocean. 

See Melissa & Nicholas' Elopement in full here in this blog post. 

An Alaska Winter Wonderland

Cheers to Hatcher Pass (and you!)

Start your day at a cozy lodge in Hatcher Pass, where we'll capture your first look before heading out to meet your family for an intimate mountain ceremony. After celebrating with everyone, we'll leave the group behind and head out to explore the ridgeline and take photos with the Talkeetna Mountains as our backdrop. Then it's back down the pass to meet up with your family at Matanuska Brewing Company for celebratory drinks, cake, and a toast!

Head to Fairbanks, Alaska, for a winter elopement at Borealis Basecamp. Start the day getting ready in your cozy igloo cabin before heading outside for your first look. Then it's time to bundle up and hit the trails with a team of sled dogs, stopping along the way for your ceremony. Afterward, we'll hop in a snowcat and head up to a ridge for a bonfire, s'mores, and champagne under the Alaskan sky. And with a little luck, we'll meet back up for a few photos under the Northern Lights!

Hey, we're Becky and Brian! We're two photographers who spend our lives traveling, exploring, and helping couples plan incredible elopements. We believe the best days leave room for adventure without leaving all the details to chance. From scouting locations and building timelines to figuring out permits and coordinating vendors, we're here to help make it all happen. And if you need someone to officiate, Becky can do that too!

Meet your Alaska elopement photographers

meet brian and becky

Common questions on how to elope in Alaska

Absolutely! Alaska is one of the best spots to spots to see the Northern Lights.  It's such a magical sight, and such a great idea to have your elopement under the dancing lights of the Aurora Borealis.

Do I need a Witness to get married in ALaska?

How do you ELope in Alaska?

How do you elope in Denali National Park?

Where Can you elope in Alaska?

WHat is a Helicopter Wedding?

have a few more questions?

Can I get married under the northern lights?

To elope in Denali National Park, you’ll need to apply for a special use permit. Permits applications can be found on the NPS website, found here, and filled out at a minimum of 10 days in advance (or as early as possible!).  We can always help with current policy changes as well, and love to help with all the details that follow!

DO I NEED A WITNESS TO GET MARRIED IN ALASKA?

HOW DO YOU ELOPE IN ALASKA?

HOW DO YOU ELOPE IN DENALI NATIONAL PARK?

WHERE CAN YOU ELOPE IN ALASKA?

WHAT IS A HELICOPTER WEDDING?

have a few more questions?

CAN I GET MARRIED UNDER THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

The only requirement to elope in Alaska is to be over 18 years old! There is a 3 day waiting period to get the license, and you're able to get that started before you arrive if you apply by mail before you head to Alaska.  For some other non-technical tips on How to Elope, check out this blog post we wrote.

DO I NEED A WITNESS TO GET MARRIED IN ALASKA?

HOW DO YOU ELOPE IN ALASKA?

HOW DO YOU ELOPE IN DENALI NATIONAL PARK?

WHERE CAN YOU ELOPE IN ALASKA?

WHAT IS A HELICOPTER WEDDING?

have a few more questions?

CAN I GET MARRIED UNDER THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

DO I NEED A WITNESS TO GET MARRIED IN ALASKA?

HOW DO YOU ELOPE IN ALASKA?

HOW DO YOU ELOPE IN DENALI NATIONAL PARK?

WHERE CAN YOU ELOPE IN ALASKA?

WHAT IS A HELICOPTER WEDDING?

have a few more questions?

CAN I GET MARRIED UNDER THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

The options here are endless!  There are so many absolutely breathtaking places to elope in Alaska. Within a few hours in any direction from a major airport, you'll find majestic snow covered mountains, over 6,000 miles of seemingly  untouched coastline, and the whole interior of Alaska --  there is a lifetime of exploration here!

DO I NEED A WITNESS TO GET MARRIED IN ALASKA?

HOW DO YOU ELOPE IN ALASKA?

HOW DO YOU ELOPE IN DENALI NATIONAL PARK?

WHERE CAN YOU ELOPE IN ALASKA?

WHAT IS A HELICOPTER WEDDING?

have a few more questions?

CAN I GET MARRIED UNDER THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

A helicopter elopement, or helicopter wedding, is the ultimate adventure wedding of Alaska.  You and your love (and your photographers 😜) get scooped up in the helicopter and whisked away to some of the most amazing, breathtaking, and remote places that Alaska has to offer!

DO I NEED A WITNESS TO GET MARRIED IN ALASKA?

HOW DO YOU ELOPE IN ALASKA?

HOW DO YOU ELOPE IN DENALI NATIONAL PARK?

WHERE CAN YOU ELOPE IN ALASKA?

WHAT IS A HELICOPTER WEDDING?

have a few more questions?

CAN I GET MARRIED UNDER THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

The easiest way to address your Q’s is to just get on the phone. We like to meet over Zoom before booking anything to make sure it’s a good fit all around, and to address any questions!
Get that on the calendar here.

Let's chat about your elopement day!

Fill out this form and we'll be in touch soon!  Tell us all the deets, and we'll get started on a plan for your elopement.  Learn about our pricing here.