Updated 4/11/25
Thinking about eloping in Glacier National Park? You’re in the right place. This guide is packed with everything you need to plan a meaningful and adventurous wedding day in one of the most scenic national parks in the U.S.
We’re Montana elopement photographers who’ve helped dozens of couples create unforgettable days in Glacier. In this blog, we’re sharing all the details you’ll need, including how to get a permit, the best ceremony locations, when to visit, and ideas for making your day feel completely your own.
Whether you’re imagining a quiet lakeside ceremony or a day filled with hikes, big views, and wild moments, we’re here to help you bring it to life.
Where is Glacier National Park and How Do You Get There?
Before we get into the elopement planning details, let’s talk about where Glacier National Park is and how to get there. It’s located in northern Montana, with parts of the park stretching right up to the Canadian border.
The U.S. side of Glacier is split into six main areas: West Glacier, Logan Pass, Many Glacier, Two Medicine, St. Mary, and North Fork/Polebridge. The most visited areas are Lake McDonald and Logan Pass, but we especially love Many Glacier and Two Medicine for their views and more remote feel.
Closest Major Cities/Towns:
Which town you stay in will depend on what area of the park you’re visiting. On the west side, Kalispell, Whitefish, and Columbia Falls are the biggest hubs with plenty of lodging and amenities. On the east side, Babb and Browning are the main towns, though much smaller and more remote.
Closest Major Airports:
The closest major airports are in Kalispell and Missoula. If you’re short on time, Kalispell is your best bet as it’s about an hour from West Glacier and gives you quick access to the park. If you have a little more time to explore, flying into Missoula can be a fun way to see more of Montana. It’s a lively college town with breweries, trails, and river spots, and the drive to West Glacier takes about 2.5 hours through some seriously beautiful country.
Need help figuring out where to stay or how to get around? That’s something we guide all our couples through when they book their Glacier elopement with us.
Why Should You Consider Eloping in Glacier National Park?
If you’re here reading this, there’s a good chance eloping in Glacier is already on your radar. Maybe you saw a photo of the Going-to-the-Sun Road, or read something about grizzlies or alpine lakes. However it found you, you’re about to understand why it’s one of our favorite places in the world to elope.
The Scenery
As destination elopement photographers, we’ve traveled and seen a lot of the world. But the landscape in Glacier National Park is hard to beat. With jagged mountain peaks, fields of wildflowers, glacier lakes (and glaciers!), and forests full of big trees, it’s hard to find something in Glacier that you won’t like!
The Wildlife
Maybe we’re just lucky (Becky is an excellent bear spotter) but every time we visit Glacier, we see wildlife! Grizzlies, eagles, black bears, moose, deer, elk, you name it!
Pockets of Privacy
Even during the busiest months, you can still find peaceful, quiet places to exchange your vows. That’s one of the biggest reasons we love when couples elope here. With a bit of guidance and location scouting, you can have the views without the crowds.
Something for Every Couple
Whether you want to hike to an overlook, paddle a glassy alpine lake, or take your time soaking up the views from a quiet shoreline, Glacier has options for every kind of experience. It’s one of those rare places where you can combine a sense of adventure with moments of total calm.
You can even add your own twist to the day. Some couples choose to ride side-by-sides on trails just outside the park, while others wrap up the evening with drinks at a western bar in town. Your day can be as relaxed or as adventurous as you want it to be.
Want to see what a relaxed, water-based elopement looks like? Check out this Lake McDonald boat elopement for an intimate day on the water with mountain views all around.
FAQ’s About Eloping in Glacier National Park
We get a lot of questions from couples who are planning to elope in Glacier, so here are answers to the ones we hear most often (and that people search for online too).
How much does it cost to elope in Glacier National Park?
The total cost of your elopement will vary depending on what kind of experience you’re planning. Factors like travel, accommodations, vendors, activities, and how many hours of photography coverage you choose will all impact your final budget.
As for the wedding permit itself, that costs $125 through the National Park Service.
Do you need a permit when eloping in Glacier National Park?
Yes. If you plan on having a ceremony and exchanging vows inside of the park, you will need a permit. If you are just taking wedding photos and no ceremony is taking place, you don’t need a permit.
Where can I elope in Glacier National Park?
The park has designated locations for your elopement ceremony throughout the park. You can find more information on that on the park’s website and keep reading to hear some of our favorite ceremony spots!
Can I have my dog at my elopement ceremony in Glacier National Park?
Yes, but it will limit your options for where your ceremony can take place. Like most national parks, Glacier allows dogs but only in developed areas such as amphitheaters, picnic areas, and campgrounds. We always tell people to think “paws on pavement”. Dogs aren’t allowed on trails, in the backcountry, or along most lakes/rivers.
Feeling Overwhelmed by Eloping in Glacier National Park?
We’ve helped dozens of couples navigate the logistics, permits, and planning details that come with eloping in Glacier. If you’re not sure where to start or want support from someone who knows the park inside and out, we’re here to help make it all feel simple and exciting.
Glacier National Park Wedding & Elopement Permits
Wedding permits vary from park to park, and the rules do change from time to time. As your Glacier National Park elopement photographers, we stay up to date on those changes so you don’t have to. The process might seem overwhelming at first, but with the right info (and a little guidance), it’s actually pretty straightforward.
When to Apply
If you’re planning to elope inside Glacier National Park, you’ll need a Special Use Permit. This applies to any ceremony, vow exchange, or wedding-related gathering inside park boundaries.
- Apply up to one year in advance
- Submit at least 20 business days before your date
- Permit fee is $125, paid by credit card over the phone once the application is reviewed
Where You Can Get Married in the Park
There are 29 designated ceremony locations within the park. These range from lakeshores and scenic overlooks to rustic amphitheaters. Each one has its own group size limit:
- Amphitheaters: up to 250 guests
- Lakesides and overlooks: usually 10–20 people
You can view the full list of locations on the official Glacier website, or we can help you narrow it down to the best spot for your vision.
Park Entry Fees
Along with your wedding permit, everyone attending will need a park pass. You have two options:
- America the Beautiful Pass: $80 for a year, valid at all U.S. national parks
- Glacier 7-Day Pass: $35 per vehicle
Vehicle Reservation Requirements (2025 Update)
From June 13 through September 28, Glacier also requires vehicle reservations for these areas:
- Going-to-the-Sun Road (West Entrance)
- North Fork Area
Reservation details:
- Available 120 days in advance at recreation.gov (starting February 12 at 8 a.m. MT)
- Next-day reservations are released daily at 7 p.m. MT
- You can still enter before 7 a.m. or after 3 p.m. without a reservation
Your wedding permit also covers your vehicle reservation on your ceremony day. If you plan to explore Glacier before or after, you’ll need to reserve additional vehicle passes for those dates.
Feeling a little overwhelmed? Don’t worry, we help our couples navigate the entire permit process from start to finish. Reach out here and we’ll guide you through it all.
Our Top 5 Locations for Your Glacier National Park Elopement
Let’s dive into the fun stuff, our favorite locations for eloping in Glacier National Park! Glacier has a list of designated ceremony sites for weddings, and you’re allowed to take photos throughout the park. These are five of our favorite places to say your vows. Each one offers something special, from dramatic views to quiet, peaceful settings.
1. Sun Point
If you’re dreaming of a ceremony spot with both mountain and lake views, Sun Point is a beautiful option. It’s easy to access and offers one of the most expansive views in the park. This is a great fit for couples who want a scenic location without a long hike.
Location Info:
- Short, easy walk (about 0.1 miles roundtrip)
- Around 100 feet of elevation gain
- Trail begins at the large Sun Point parking lot
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Not dog-friendly
- May be difficult for guests with limited mobility (mild incline at the end)
- Available from late May through mid-October
- Group size limit: 20 people (including couple, photographer, and officiant)
2. Lake Josephine Shoreline
Lake Josephine is one of those locations that stops you in your tracks. The views are breathtaking, and the trail leading to the lake passes through the forest and along the edge of Swiftcurrent Lake. You can either hike or take the ferry, which adds a fun element to your day and makes the arrival even more memorable.
This area is usually quiet and peaceful, though you may occasionally see a ferry arrive or depart. If you’re up for a short hike and love the idea of mountains meeting still water, this is a beautiful choice.
Update for 2025: Due to ongoing construction in the Many Glacier area, the shorter trail to Lake Josephine is not accessible. Parking is very limited. You can still get to the lake by hiking from Many Glacier Hotel or taking the boat during summer months. The total distance is closer to 4 miles roundtrip instead of 1 mile.
Location Info:
- Two access options:
– Hike from Many Glacier Hotel (about 2 miles one way)
– Take the ferry across Swiftcurrent Lake and hike 0.2 miles to the site - Around 100 feet of elevation gain
- Easy to moderate trail with some uphill sections
- Trail begins at Many Glacier Hotel (parking is limited due to construction)
- Not dog-friendly
- Not wheelchair accessible
- May be challenging for guests with limited mobility
- Available from late May through mid-October
- Group size limit: 15 people (including couple, photographer, and officiant)
3. Pray Lake
Pray Lake is a peaceful ceremony location with beautiful mountain views reflected in the water. It’s one of the easiest locations to access in the park, which makes it a great option if you’re including guests who may have difficulty walking. The lakeshore is quiet, open, and a lovely place to exchange vows surrounded by Glacier’s scenery.
Location Info:
- No hiking required
- Flat dirt path from the parking area to the lakeshore
- Very easy walk from car to ceremony spot
- Not dog-friendly
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Available from late May through Labor Day 2025
(After Labor Day 2025, this site will be closed for construction) - Group size limit: 30 people (including couple, photographer, and officiant)
4. Ryan Beach
Ryan Beach is one of the most private and peaceful ceremony spots in Glacier. It’s tucked along the shoreline of Lake McDonald and doesn’t show up easily on Google Maps, which helps keep it quiet. If you want to feel like you have a slice of the park all to yourselves, this is a beautiful place to consider.
Location Info:
- Short walk through the trees to reach the beach
- Flat path with no elevation gain
- Small parking area that fits 2 to 3 vehicles
- Not dog-friendly
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Available year-round
- Group size limit:
– 15 people during peak season (second Friday in May through second Sunday in October)
– 20 people during non-peak season
5. Bowman Lake
Bowman Lake is absolutely stunning and often gets overlooked, simply because it takes a little more effort to get there. But if you’re up for the drive, this location delivers big rewards. The views are peaceful, expansive, and often very quiet thanks to its remote setting. It’s one of our favorite spots for couples who want a true backcountry feel without a long hike.
Location Info:
- Drive time: about 32 miles from Apgar Village along a rough dirt road
- Once you pass Polebridge, it’s another 6 miles to the Bowman Lake Day Use area
- No hiking required and no elevation gain
- Small parking lot that can fill up, especially in summer
- Vehicle reservation system has helped reduce crowding
- Not dog-friendly
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Available mid-May through mid-October
- Group size limit:
– 15 people during peak season (second Friday in May through second Sunday in October)
– 24 people during non-peak season
The Best Time of Year to Elope at Glacier National Park
There are a few key factors to consider when deciding when to elope in Glacier National Park — including the weather, crowd levels, and wildfire season. Below is a breakdown of what each time of year is like so you can find the right fit for your vision.
November to April: Snowy & Quiet
Winter hits early and lasts long in Montana. Snow can start falling as early as late September and often sticks around well into April. This is the time for a true winter elopement experience. Think frozen lakes, snowshoeing through quiet forests, and cozying up in a cabin after saying your vows.
If you’re open to the cold and want something peaceful and adventurous, this season has a lot to offer.
April to June: Spring Awakens Slowly
Spring in Glacier looks a little different than in most places. These months are often wet, chilly, and still transitioning out of winter. Trails can be muddy or snow-covered, and many lodges and visitor centers don’t fully reopen until mid to late May. By June, things begin to feel more accessible again.
This is a good time to elope if you’re hoping to avoid the summer crowds and don’t mind unpredictable weather.
Late June to Mid-September: Summer Wildflowers & Crowds
Summer in Glacier is nothing short of stunning. Wildflowers bloom in full force, lakes and rivers are clear and cold, and the long daylight hours give you tons of time to explore. But this is also the park’s busiest season. Expect full parking lots, crowded viewpoints, and the need for vehicle reservations in some areas.
We help couples navigate around the crowds by guiding them to less-traveled locations at quieter times of day.
Mid-September to November: Crisp Air & Fall Colors
This is our favorite time of year in Glacier. The colors start to change, the crowds thin out, and the light gets softer and more golden. You’ll get cooler temperatures without fully stepping into winter, which makes it ideal for couples who want a peaceful and cozy mountain day.
If you’re flexible with your schedule, we often recommend late September or early October.
Crowds & Wildfire Season
With summer comes two realities: more visitors and the potential for wildfires. July and August are the most crowded months in the park, and they also tend to bring smoky conditions depending on the fire season.
If you’re sensitive to smoke or want to avoid the risk altogether, we recommend choosing a date in early summer or fall. We also help our couples plan with backup locations and adjusted timelines just in case weather or smoke creates last-minute changes.
Glacier National Park Elopement Activity Ideas
One of the best parts of eloping in Glacier is that your day doesn’t have to follow any rules. Adding an activity, whether it’s adventurous, relaxing, or just something that feels like you, can make your experience even more meaningful.
These moments help you stay grounded and connected, especially if you’re someone who feels a little nervous in front of the camera. Activities give you time to be present, enjoy your surroundings, and make memories that go far beyond the ceremony.
If you’re planning a summer or fall elopement, here are some ideas to include in your day:
- Kayaking
- Paddle boarding
- Canoeing
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Hiking
- Backpacking
- Picnicking
- Biking
- Scenic helicopter ride
- Zip lining
- Rafting
- Horseback riding
For winter elopements, there are plenty of cozy and adventurous options too:
- Snowshoeing
- Cross-country skiing
- Dog sledding
- Snowmobiling
- Spa time and relaxing at a cabin
If you’re looking for even more inspiration, we put together a full list of 15 creative elopement activity ideas to help you design a day that truly reflects you.
Not sure where to start? We’ll help you choose the right activity based on the season, location, and your style.
Glacier National Park Elopement Photographers
We first visited Glacier National Park together in 2020, and it was Becky’s first time seeing it. Ever since, we’ve spent our summers exploring the park, finding new hidden spots, and documenting beautiful elopements. It’s one of those places that feels both wild and peaceful, and every time we return, we discover something new.
If you’re planning on eloping in Glacier, we highly recommend working with an elopement photographer who knows the area well. Permits and regulations change from year to year, and having someone familiar with the process makes a huge difference. We help our couples navigate all of it, from scouting the right ceremony spot to building a timeline that fits your experience.
Whether you’re dreaming of mountain views, lakeside vows, or a full day of exploring the park, we’re here to help you bring it to life.
Glacier National Park Elopement Packages
At Scenic Vows, we offer a few different elopement packages, and we’ll help you figure out which one fits your vision best. Eloping in Glacier National Park is an incredible experience, and we want to make sure you have enough time to soak it in and relive it through your photos.
Our 4-hour and 6-hour packages are great for winter elopements when the days are shorter. For summer and fall, we typically recommend booking 6 or 8 hours so there’s room to explore and take your time. Glacier is a huge park, and your experience will feel much more relaxed with extra breathing room built into the day.
If you’re planning something more remote, or you want to include activities like hiking, backpacking, or a helicopter ride, we also offer a two-day experience with 12 hours of coverage split across both days.
Since we live full-time in our converted Sprinter van, we don’t charge any travel fees to work in Glacier. We follow a travel schedule to keep things sustainable, so feel free to check our travel plans here or reach out to see if your date is available.
Here’s a quick look at what a 6-hour Glacier elopement could look like:
- 2:30 pm — First look at your Airbnb
- 3:00 pm — Activity like side-by-sides or a paddle session
- 5:30 pm — Grab dinner from a local food truck
- 6:30 pm — Hike out to your ceremony location
- 7:00 pm — Exchange vows at sunset
- 8:30 pm — Wrap up the evening
Want to see what a multi-day experience could look like? Contact us and we’ll walk you through some ideas based on the season and the vibe you’re going for.
