Hiking elopements aren’t for everyone, and that’s totally ok. Imagine skipping the hike and flying straight to a mountaintop, glacier, or hidden alpine lake where it’s just the two of you, completely surrounded by wild and remote beauty. That’s the magic of a helicopter elopement.
We’ve photographed a lot of adventurous elopements, but nothing compares to the feeling of flying somewhere that literally no one else can go. Every time we lift off, we’re grinning like kids.
In this blog, we’re sharing everything you need to know: what a helicopter elopement actually is, why couples are loving this kind of adventure, our favorite locations around the world, and all the planning tips that’ll help your day go off without any hiccups. If you’re dreaming of a ceremony in a place no one else can reach, you’re in the right spot.
What is a Helicopter Elopement?
A helicopter elopement is when you include a scenic flight as part of your wedding day. Some couples fly to a remote location for their ceremony, while others do the ceremony elsewhere and use the helicopter for portraits in a place that feels wild and private. Either way, it’s an incredible way to add adventure and reach spots you’d never get to on foot.
Most flights include just the two of you, your photographer (that’s us), and your pilot. We work with experienced companies who know the terrain and can help choose the best landing spot based on the season and weather.
Why Have a Helicopter Elopement?
Helicopter elopements give you access to landscapes that feel completely untouched, mountaintops, glaciers, valleys, and lakes with no one else around. No crowds. No ceremony on display. Just space to be fully present and take it all in together.
They’re a great option if you want stunning scenery without needing to hike, or if you just want your day to feel a little more off the beaten path. We’ve helped couples share vows on top of mountains, picnic next to glacial lakes, and explore places without another soul in sight. The helicopter’s just how you get there. What matters most is the space it creates for a day that feels calm, connected, and completely yours.
Thinking about a helicopter elopement in Alaska?
We’ve still got availability in August and September for our all-inclusive Alaska helicopter elopement package. If you’re dreaming of a remote glacier, wildflower meadow, or dramatic alpine landing spot, this is one of the best times of year to make it happen.
7 Best Locations for an Epic Helicopter Elopement
There’s no shortage of beautiful places to elope, but some spots are so remote that you’d never reach them without a helicopter. That’s what makes these locations so special ! They’re wild, untouched, and completely unforgettable. Whether you’re dreaming of glaciers, coastal cliffs, or remote meadows full of wildflowers, these are some of the best places in the world for a helicopter elopement.
1. Alaska
Alaska is one of the best places for a helicopter elopement thanks to its incredible variety in landscape. You can land on a glacier, fly over ocean cliffs, explore bright blue lakes, and take in mountain views, sometimes all in one flight. Since so much of the landscape is inaccessible by foot, flying is often the most practical way to find privacy and scenery.
Favorite areas to consider:
- Seward: Coastal cliffs, glaciers, and the chance to spot moose or whales in flight.
- Homer: Towering mountain peaks with views of Kachemak Bay and the Kenai Mountains.
- Palmer / Hatcher Pass: Quick access from Anchorage with jagged peaks and surreal blue lakes.
- Girdwood: Rainforest views that open up into wide icefields.
- Juneau: Glacier landings on Mendenhall and Norris, especially convenient if you’re visiting Southeast Alaska.
- Denali area: Vast tundra and, on a clear day, views of Denali itself.
Planning Tip:
If you love the idea of a helicopter elopement but don’t want to deal with coordinating flights, vendors, and timelines yourself, our all-inclusive elopement package might be a great fit. We take care of everything, from booking a trusted pilot to finding the right florist, so you can focus on the experience.
Helicopter companies we trust:
- Marathon Helicopters (Seward): Our go-to. Mike is an incredible pilot and always makes the experience feel personal.
➡️ marathonhelicopters.com - Outbound Helicopter (Palmer): Solid option for glacier and backcountry landings.
➡️ outboundhelicopter.com - Alaska Helicopter Tours (Palmer): Elopement-specific packages out of Alaska Glacier Lodge.
➡️ alaskahelicoptertours.com - Alpine Air Alaska (Girdwood): Glacier and coastal flights, 45 minutes from Anchorage.
➡️ alpineairalaska.com - TEMSCO Helicopters (Juneau / Denali): Mostly glacier tours, with custom options sometimes available.
➡️ temscoair.com
What it costs:
Helicopter flights for elopements in Alaska usually start around $2,500, with pricing based on your departure point, number of landings, flight time, and aircraft type. Most couples choose a flight with at least two landings for a mix of ceremony and portrait spots.
A few factors that affect cost:
- Number of landings
- Distance from base
- Aircraft size
- Season and weather
Want to see what this actually looks like? Melissa & Nicholas’s elopement is a great example. They were picked up near their Airbnb, flew to a mountain peak for their ceremony, landed on a glacier for portraits, then walked home through the rainforest after being dropped off at the beach.
2. Montana
Montana is full of incredible scenery, from mountain ranges to wide river valleys, but helicopter access here is more limited than in places like Alaska. There are stricter regulations around where helicopters can land, and much of the land is either private or protected.
Most companies offer scenic flyovers rather than landings. And because of federal flight restrictions, helicopters can’t fly directly over national parks like Glacier or Yellowstone. Instead, they operate on the outskirts or over nearby public lands.
Regions to look into:
- Missoula area: Flights with views of the Bitterroot Mountains and surrounding forests
- Belgrade / Bozeman: Overlooks of the Bridger Range and the Gallatin Valley
- West Yellowstone: Tours along the western edge of the park, with mountain and forest views
- Glacier region: Limited options for viewing Flathead Valley and distant peaks near the park boundary
Companies to check out:
- Minuteman Aviation (Missoula)
- Central Copters (Belgrade)
- Yellowstone Helicopters (West Yellowstone)
- Glacier Aviation Services (Kalispell)
We’ve explored several options here and have found that regulations make landing in remote areas much harder. If you’re interested in adding a helicopter flight to your Montana elopement, we can help you figure out what’s possible and build a plan that still feels adventurous.
Check out our Montana elopement guide for more planning tips and location ideas.
3. Wyoming
Wyoming has some incredible landscapes, especially around the Tetons and Yellowstone, but helicopter access is pretty limited here too. Like Montana, most public lands have strict rules around where helicopters can land, and landings are not allowed within national parks. That means most flights in this region are scenic tours rather than full elopement drop-offs.
That said, a helicopter flight can still be a beautiful way to add a sense of scale to your day. Whether it’s taking off after your ceremony or booking a flyover to see the Tetons from above, it’s a pretty unique experience that adds something special to your day.
Best areas for scenic flights:
- Jackson Hole and the Tetons: Panoramic views of the Teton Range, Snake River, and surrounding valleys
- Wind River Range: Remote peaks and lakes you can’t see from the highway
Helicopter companies we recommend:
- Wind River Air – Based in Alpine, just outside Jackson. Great option for custom scenic flights with mountain views.
- Teton Helicopters – Operating out of Jackson, offering tours around the Tetons and Snake River region.
We recommend reaching out early if you’re considering a flight here, since options are more limited than in Alaska. We’re always happy to help coordinate with a trusted operator and build a plan that fits your timeline and vision.
4. Utah
Utah’s desert landscapes are unlike anywhere else — think red rock cliffs, towering mesas, and deep canyons that stretch for miles. While we haven’t photographed a helicopter elopement here yet, it’s a location we’re excited about. There’s potential for landings in certain areas, especially on BLM land where regulations are a bit more flexible compared to national parks.
As always, national parks like Zion and Arches don’t allow helicopter landings, but there are some incredible views and possible landing zones just outside park boundaries. A helicopter flight could be a great way to see the desert from a new perspective, whether it’s part of your elopement timeline or just an epic add-on experience.
Areas to consider:
- Zion area: Soaring cliffs, winding canyons, and sandstone plateaus.
- Moab and Canyonlands region: Massive rock formations, natural arches, and colorful desert.
- Salt Lake City and Wasatch Front: Mountain views mixed with desert foothills.
Helicopter companies to check out:
- Zion Helicopters – One of the best-known operators for desert tours near Zion.
- Pinnacle Helicopters – Based in southern Utah with flights over red rock terrain.
- Utah Helicopter Tours / Utah Transport – Offers a mix of scenic flights out of Salt Lake City.
- Wasatch Helicopter Adventures – Scenic options around SLC and the Wasatch Mountains.
We’re happy to help you explore what’s possible and figure out if a helicopter fits into your elopement day.
5. Hawaii
If you’ve ever dreamed of flying past jungle waterfalls or saying your vows somewhere that looks straight out of Jurassic Park… Hawaii might be calling your name. It’s perfect for couples who want a balance of adventure and relaxation. What about a helicopter ride in the morning, followed by toes in the sand and mai tai cocktails at sunset?
Each island brings something unique, from sea cliffs and volcanic craters to lush valleys and private beaches. Helicopter tours here are a great way to see the islands from above, and some companies offer the option to land in remote spots (like right next to a waterfall or on top of a stunning overlook), depending on permits and access.
Flights typically start around $2,500, and most helicopters seat 4 to 6 people, which gives you the flexibility to bring a couple guests along.
Island-by-island options:
- Kauai: Island Helicopters — the only company permitted to land at Manawaiopuna Falls, the iconic waterfall featured in Jurassic Park.
- Maui: Air Maui — tours of West Maui and the sea cliffs of Molokai with sweeping ocean views.
- Big Island: Paradise Helicopters — scenic flights over lava fields, rainforests, and rugged coastlines.
- Oahu: Rainbow Helicopters — custom flight routes with doors-off options for even more dramatic views.
If you want warm temps, unreal views, and a little beach time mixed in with your elopement adventure, Hawaii might be the perfect fit.
6. New Zealand
Snowy peaks, bright blue lakes, glaciers, waterfalls, and valleys that feel completely untouched, you name it, New Zealand has it! It is one of the most iconic places in the world for a helicopter elopement. The South Island is especially popular, with top spots like Queenstown, Milford Sound, Mount Cook, and Fox Glacier offering an incredible variety of landscapes. Whether you’re dreaming of landing on a glacier, a rugged ridgeline, or a quiet alpine valley, there’s no shortage of jaw-dropping options here.
Helicopter companies to check out:
- Over The Top Helicopters (Queenstown)
- Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters (Queenstown & Wanaka)
- Heliworks Mt Cook (Mount Cook)
- Fox Franz Heli Services (Fox Glacier & Franz Josef)
- Southern Alps Air (Milford Sound & Mount Aspiring region)
Pricing:
Most helicopter elopement flights in New Zealand start around $1,500–$2,500 USD, with custom quotes based on the flight length, number of landings, and location. Many operators are familiar with elopement-style requests and can help create something that fits your vision.
If you want that bucket-list kind of experience, with wild views and a full sense of adventure, New Zealand definitely delivers.
7. Iceland
If you’re dreaming of a landscape that feels otherworldly, Iceland should be high on your list. From black sand beaches and massive waterfalls to mossy lava fields, volcanic craters, and sprawling glaciers, this place feels like another planet, in the best possible way.
Helicopter tours here can take you to places you’d never reach on foot or by road, and many companies even offer combo experiences. You can fly to a remote mountain or glacier, then hop on ATVs, snowmobiles, or go glacier hiking right after. It’s a fun way to blend the thrill of the flight with an activity you’d probably never do back home.
Popular areas for helicopter flights:
- Reykjavik area: Close to the capital with access to lava fields, hot springs, and volcano views
- South Coast: Black sand beaches, glacial rivers, and rugged mountain terrain
- Vatnajökull Glacier: One of Europe’s largest glaciers with striking blue ice formations
- Highlands: Raw and remote, filled with colorful rhyolite mountains and wide open space
Helicopter companies to check out:
- Norðurflug Helicopter Tours – Based in Reykjavik with a wide variety of routes and landing options
- Volcano Heli – Focuses on volcano flights and private charters
- Glacier Helicopters Iceland – Offers glacier landings and combo experiences like hiking or ATV tours
Pricing:
Helicopter flights in Iceland usually start around $2,500–$3,500 USD for private charters with at least one landing. Add-on experiences like ATV rides or snowmobiling will increase the price, but they can also turn your day into a full adventure you’ll never forget.
If you’re open to a little unpredictable weather and ready for big, wild landscapes, Iceland might just be the most surreal elopement setting out there.
Ready to start planning your helicopter elopement?
With so many incredible locations to choose from, we’re here to help narrow things down. If you’ve always dreamed of your own helicopter elopement, what are you waiting for?
Helicopter Elopement Planning Tips + FAQs
Picking the perfect location is only part of planning a helicopter elopement. You also want the experience to feel relaxed, well-paced, and totally true to you. Below are some of the most common questions couples ask when they’re thinking about adding a helicopter to their day, plus a little insight from what we’ve learned along the way.
How much does it cost to hire a helicopter for an elopement?
Prices can vary a lot depending on where you’re flying and what’s included. Most private helicopter elopements start around $2,500 USD, and go up from there based on the number of landings, flight time, and how remote your location is.
Some companies charge by the hour, while others offer flat rates that include specific destinations. Want to land on a glacier? Or fly to two different locations? That will usually bump the price a bit. We’ll help you sort through the options so you’re not guessing what’s included. We’re running a special right now that’s an all-inclusive Alaska elopement package and includes 2.5 hours of helicopter flight time. Check out all of the details here and reach out today to book one of the last few spots in August and September.
How long is a helicopter elopement?
Here’s a general idea of how the timing breaks down:
- In the air: Most flights are 15 to 45 minutes depending on where you’re going
- On the ground: You’ll usually have 30 to 90 minutes at each landing spot for vows, exploring, and photos
- Total coverage: We recommend at least 4 to 6 hours of photography to cover prep, the flight, and everything in between
Some couples build their whole day around the flight. Others treat it as one part of the adventure. Either way, we’ll help map it out so nothing feels rushed.
Where can a helicopter land for our elopement?
That depends on where you’re eloping. Some areas (like parts of Alaska or New Zealand) have a lot of freedom to land on public land. Other places, like national parks in the U.S., have strict rules or don’t allow landings at all.
Luckily, most helicopter companies have a list of approved landing spots that are scenic, legal, and safe. Once we know your general location, we’ll work with your pilot to find something that fits your vibe.
Do we need permits for our helicopter elopement?
Sometimes, yes. Permits can depend on where you land, how many people are involved, and whether you’re holding a ceremony or just taking photos.
We help all of our couples figure this out ahead of time. In some areas, the helicopter company will handle the permits. In others, we’ll walk you through what’s needed and take care of it for you. Either way, we’ve got your back.
How do we find the best helicopter company for our elopement?
Good news is you don’t have to do this alone. We’ve already worked with amazing pilots across Alaska, Montana, Hawaii, and beyond, and we only recommend companies we fully trust.
We’ll help you figure out who’s the best fit for your location, your priorities, and your budget. Want to start exploring? Scroll back up to check out our favorite heli companies by region.
Are helicopter elopements legal?
Yes! As long as you have a valid marriage license and meet your state or country’s requirements for getting married, your helicopter elopement is just as official as any other ceremony. Becky is ordained in all 50 states and can help walk you through the logistics and legal side of your helicopter elopement.
If you’re planning to elope in Alaska, this blog post has everything you need to know about how to make it legal there.
Destination Helicopter Elopement Photographer
There’s something about helicopter elopements that never gets old. Every time we step out onto a ridgeline or glacier with a couple, it feels like the world just opens up. The views, the quiet, the sense of wow. It always hits.
More than anything, we love seeing couples have that moment together. No distractions, no one else around, just the two of you standing somewhere that feels completely your own. That’s what it’s all about.
If you’re dreaming of a day that feels adventurous, intentional, and completely unforgettable, we’d love to help you make it happen. We’ll be there to guide you through the planning, work with trusted pilots, and photograph the whole experience from start to finish.
Let’s plan your helicopter elopement. Reach out to us here and let’s start dreaming it up together.
