The Top 8 Tips for How to Elope in Idaho

Updated 2/8/2025

Thinking about eloping in Idaho but not sure where to start? You’re in the right place! If you’re dreaming of a day that’s all about you—no expectations, no pressure, just an incredible adventure in a place that feels right—Idaho might be the perfect fit.

This state is full of stunning, off-the-beaten-path landscapes, from the jagged peaks of the Sawtooth Mountains to the peaceful lakes in McCall and the wild, otherworldly terrain of Craters of the Moon. If hiking to a quiet alpine lake, soaking in a hidden hot spring, or saying your vows with nothing but mountains around you sounds like your kind of wedding day, we’re here to help.

We’ll walk you through how to elope in Idaho, covering everything from choosing the perfect spot and the best time of year to legal details, costs, and epic ways to make your day unforgettable. Let’s get started!

Before we dive into the details of how to elope in Idaho, let’s talk about why this state is an incredible place to say “I do.”

Idaho is full of wild, untamed beauty, so if you’re dreaming of an elopement that feels intimate, remote, and deeply connected to nature, this might be the perfect spot. Picture exchanging vows in front of a cascading waterfall, on a quiet shoreline of an alpine lake, or in the middle of a wildflower-filled meadow with nothing but mountain peaks around you. From the jagged peaks of the Sawtooth Mountains to the peaceful forests of McCall and the dramatic landscapes of Craters of the Moon, Idaho offers an endless variety of stunning backdrops for your elopement.

Plus, it’s far less crowded than other popular elopement destinations, so you won’t have to worry about sharing your moment with a hundred tourists. Whether you want a rugged, off-the-grid adventure or a cozy lakeside ceremony, Idaho gives you the space to create a wedding day that feels completely yours.

Idaho is packed with stunning elopement locations, but here are five of our absolute favorites to get you started. If you’re curious about what an elopement here can look like, check out this adventurous side-by-side elopement in Stanley, Idaho we photographed!

If you’re dreaming of pristine alpine lakes, dramatic mountain peaks, and endless trails to explore, the Sawtooths are hard to beat. This area is a true elopement haven, offering some of the most stunning backdrops for an intimate ceremony. It’s also incredibly dog- and bike-friendly, so if your perfect day includes hiking, biking, or bringing your pup along, this might be the spot for you.

Known as the “Niagara of the West,” Shoshone Falls is one of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the country. The massive cascades create a dramatic and awe-inspiring setting for an elopement, especially in the spring when the water flow is at its peak.

If you’re looking for something truly unique, Craters of the Moon offers a surreal landscape of lava fields, volcanic formations, and rugged terrain. It feels like stepping onto another planet, making it a perfect setting for couples who want a one-of-a-kind elopement experience.

Tucked away in the mountains, McCall is known for its crystal-clear Payette Lake and endless outdoor adventures. Picture saying your vows along the peaceful shoreline or in a secluded forest of towering pines. If you love the idea of a cozy mountain town with a mix of adventure and relaxation, McCall has that perfect balance—it reminds us of what Lake Tahoe felt like years ago.

For couples who want something remote and adventurous, City of Rocks is an incredible spot. The landscape is dotted with towering granite spires, offering a rugged yet peaceful backdrop. It’s a quiet, secluded place where you can truly feel like you have the world to yourselves.

One of the biggest questions couples have when planning their elopement is how much does it cost to elope in Idaho? The answer depends on what you want your day to include. Some couples keep it simple with just the essentials, while others opt for a multi-day adventure with unique experiences. Here’s a rough estimate of typical elopement costs in Idaho:

• Photography: $4800–$8000
• Accommodations (4 nights): $500–$2400 (varies by location and season)
• Marriage License: $30
• Flights: $500 per person (varies based on departure location)
• Car Rental: $400+
• Bouquet & Florals: $75–$200
• Hair & Makeup: $300
• Officiant (if needed): $200–$600
• National Park or Permit Fees (if required): $0–$300
• Private Chef or Special Meal: $200–$500
• Adventure Activities (kayaking, hot air balloon ride, horseback riding, etc.): $150–$1500

The total cost of an Idaho elopement can range anywhere from $3000 to $15,000+, depending on how simple or adventurous you want your day to be. The beauty of eloping is that you get to create a day that fits your vision, whether that’s a cozy cabin weekend with just the two of you or a multi-day adventure filled with epic experiences.

Idaho’s landscapes change dramatically throughout the year, offering something unique in every season. The best time to elope really depends on what kind of scenery and experience you’re looking for.

• Spring and fall bring mild weather, fewer crowds, and some of the most beautiful natural colors.
• Summer allows access to high-elevation locations, longer days, and warm weather.
• Winter transforms Idaho into a snowy wonderland, perfect for adventurous couples.

Here’s what you can expect in each season:

Spring in Idaho means blooming wildflowers, green valleys, and snow-capped peaks in the distance. The weather is usually mild, making it a great time for an outdoor ceremony. But spring can be unpredictable—one day could be warm and sunny, and the next could bring a surprise snowfall or rainstorm. If you love the idea of fresh spring air and dramatic mountain views, just be prepared with flexible plans in case the weather takes a turn.

Summer is ideal if you want warm temperatures and access to remote, high-elevation locations that are snowed in during other seasons. Long daylight hours (the sun doesn’t set until 10:30 or 11 PM in some areas) mean plenty of time for exploring, activities, and celebrating. The downside? Summer is the busiest time of year, so you’ll likely encounter other people enjoying the outdoors. Hotels and car rentals book up quickly, but with a little planning ahead, it’s not a problem.

If you’re trying to decide when to elope in Idaho, fall might be the perfect time. The summer crowds have disappeared, the temperatures are cooler, and the fall colors are unreal. Golden aspens, deep reds, and warm orange hues start appearing in late September and last through early November. The weather is generally stable, but sneaky winter storms can show up early—having a backup plan is always a good idea. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered on that!

Winter transforms Idaho into a snowy, magical landscape that feels straight out of a dream. If you love the idea of eloping in a quiet, winter wonderland, this season could be perfect for you. It does get seriously cold, so it’s important to be prepared with warm layers and the right gear. But if you’re up for the adventure, winter elopements make for some of the most unique and breathtaking photos. And we can include activities like snowmobiling, skiing, or snowshoeing!

We are so excited to help you start dreaming up your own elopement day. Not only are we here to capture every moment, but we’re also here to help make those dreams come to life!

One of the most important steps in planning your Idaho elopement is making sure everything is legal. The good news? Idaho makes the process pretty simple! Here’s what you need to know about getting your marriage license and making it official.

Both of you will need to visit a county clerk’s office in Idaho to apply for your marriage license. You’ll need to bring:

• A valid form of ID (driver’s license, passport, or birth certificate)
• Additional documents if either of you was previously married (requirements vary by county)
• The application fee, which typically ranges from $30 to $60

Each county handles its own marriage licenses, so it’s a good idea to check with the specific county where you plan to elope. For example, couples getting married in the Boise area can apply through the Ada County Clerk’s Office.

As soon as your marriage license is issued, you’re good to go—there’s no waiting period in Idaho. You can get married the same day if you want! Idaho also does not require witnesses, and couples even have the option to self-solemnize, meaning you can legally marry yourselves without an officiant.

After your ceremony, the signed marriage license must be returned to the county clerk’s office where it was issued. You’ll have 30 days to send it back so it can be officially recorded. Once processed, you can request a certified copy for your records.

And that’s it—you’re legally married in Idaho!

Now that you’ve started figuring out the logistics of how to elope in Idaho, it’s time for the fun part—deciding what you want your elopement day to feel like. Whether you’re dreaming of an action-packed adventure or a slow, intimate day soaking in the scenery, here are ten ideas to make your Idaho elopement even more memorable.

• Take a scenic bike ride along mountain trails.
• Pack a picnic and enjoy it on a secluded lakeshore.
• Play a sunset round of disc golf at a scenic course.
• Hike to a hidden waterfall and say your vows in front of it.
• Stay out late stargazing under Idaho’s insanely clear night skies.
• Kayak or canoe on a peaceful alpine lake.
• Wander through a local farmer’s market and pick up fresh treats.
• Go horseback riding through rolling hills or mountain meadows.
• Celebrate with a laid-back brewery or winery tour.
• Spend the morning wildlife watching in one of Idaho’s quiet nature reserves.

Your elopement day should be about more than just the ceremony—it’s a chance to create an experience that feels exactly right for you. Whether that means an early morning paddle on a misty lake or sipping a cold local beer after an epic hike, we’ll help you plan a day that’s yours.

We know there’s a lot to think about when planning your Idaho elopement, so here’s a simple checklist to help keep you on track. Don’t worry—we’re here to guide you through every step!

✅ Choose your elopement location.
✅ Secure necessary permits and marriage license (we’ll help with all of this).
✅ Book accommodations and travel.
✅ Plan your ceremony details and write your vows.
✅ Decide on activities to make the day feel like you.
✅ Pack the essentials (attire, rings, vow books, layers for the weather).
✅ Get married and have the best day ever!

Eloping in Idaho doesn’t have to be overwhelming—when you focus on what truly matters to you, the process becomes so much more fun. We’ll be there every step of the way to make sure your elopement is seamless, stress-free, and unforgettable.

In case you made it all the way here without knowing who we are—hey, we’re Becky & Brian, the team behind Scenic Vows. We specialize in helping couples craft unforgettable elopement experiences in Idaho, from planning the details to capturing every raw, real, and emotional moment.

Eloping isn’t just about beautiful photos (though you’ll definitely get those!). It’s about creating a day that feels right for you—without stress, expectations, or worrying about what anyone else thinks. We’re here to help with all of it, from scouting the perfect spot to guiding you through how to elope in Idaho with ease.

Idaho offers the kind of beauty that makes you stop in your tracks—jagged peaks, alpine lakes, quiet forests, and hidden hot springs. Paired with a day that’s completely yours, it’s an experience you’ll never forget. And we’d love to be the ones to help make it happen.

We are so excited to help you start dreaming up your own elopement day. Not only are we here to capture every moment, but we’re also here to help make those dreams come to life!