Are you looking for an elopement location in the beautiful wild west? Eloping at Glacier National Park in Montana is the perfect choice! Named for it’s glacial landscape, Glacier National Park has unique geographical features including rugged peaks and valleys, rolling plains, tundra, lakes, and more! The diversity allows you to choose what best suits your needs and personality. Not to mention, Montana is one of the least populated states, making it perfect for those who prefer a calm and intimate, yet adventurous wedding day. So, here is a guide to making your dream elopement happen at Glacier National Park.

What is the best time to elope at Glacier National Park?

Glacier National Park is open year-round, but the best time for an elopement is from late June to mid-September. During these months, the weather is most reliable, and all areas of the park are accessible. It’s important to keep in mind, though, that July and August are peak tourist months, so if you’re looking for a quieter experience, consider late September. Though, May is a great time as well with wildflowers blooming (though that’s thanks to the rain), and, if you are not scared of the cold, the backdrop of the winter landscape is breathtaking.

What are the best locations to elope in Glacier National Park?

Glacier is filled with gorgeous sites to tie the knot. Here are a few of my favorites:

Many Glacier Hotel Area: This is the perfect option for those who want the beauty of the outdoors, but don’t really want to do much hiking. It’s especially convenient if you will be staying at the hotel itself. The area surrounding the hotel offers amazing views of Swiftcurrent Lake and the mountains encircling it, making it the perfect options for both beauty and convenience.

Grinnell Glacier Trail: If you are a couple who is looking for a real adventure elopement by hiking through the national park, this is the option for you. It’s a relatively long hike, but with a great reward, as you get views of the beautiful turquoise waters of Grinnell Lake surrounded by alpine forest and rugged peaks. You also have the opportunity to see the magnificent Grinnell Glacier.

Lake McDonald: This is the biggest lake in the park and is known for it’s colourful pebbles that can be seen beneath it’s clear waters. You can easily access it from the Apgar Village area, which also gives some beautiful views from the southern lake bed.

Two Medicine Lake: While the lake has similar scenery to the others on this list, what makes this lake special is the gorgeous waterfalls. It’s another less crowded area in Glacier National Park, so again great for those wanting a peaceful setting for exchanging their vows.

Sun Point – This absolutely stunning backdrop is another that is quite easy to access at a short hike of half a mile from the parking lot (which is quite large if you have guests attending). Not to mention, you can reach three waterfalls from this point as well.

Planning the Details

What paperwork do I need for eloping at Glacier National Park?

As with most national parks, you’ll need to apply for a Special Use Permit for your ceremony at Glacier National Park. The permit costs $125, and you can get it from the park’s permit office. Make sure to apply at least a few months in advance, as the park limits the number of permits issued to protect the environment and ensure a peaceful experience. You can read more information about the permit here.

Not only will you need the permit for the park ceremony, but you’ll also need a Montana marriage license, which you can get from any county clerk’s office in the state. Both parties need to be present to apply, and there’s no waiting period, so you can get married the same day you pick up your license. The cost of both the traditional wedding license and Declaration of Marriage (see below) is $53.

Do I need an officiant and witnesses for my Montana wedding ceremony?

In Montana, you can self-solemnize your marriage, meaning you don’t need an officiant. However, if you prefer someone to lead the ceremony, you can bring along an officiant or even ask a friend to get ordained online. If you choose me as your elopement photographer, I am also ordained. So you’ll get two for the price of one! Whether you choose to have an officiant join the ceremony or not, you will need two witnesses. If you have an officiant sign your marriage license, the witnesses must be present at the ceremony. However, if you choose the self-solemnization route, you do not need any witnesses present at the ceremony. You must instead write a Declaration of Marriage and submit it in-person at the courthouse. There, you can bring two witnesses of your own, or use the Clerk of Court staff as your witness.

Should I hire a photographer for my elopement?

Hiring a professional photographer is a must to capture all the special moments of your big day. Since you are probably choosing Glacier National Park for it’s natural beauty, it’s important to select a photographer that has experience with photographing nature and adventure elopements. As an elopement photographer myself, I have shot in Glacier National Park numerous times. So I can help you choose the best spots for your dream backdrop. Plus, I can help with planning and logistics.

What should I wear on my Glacier National Park elopement?

Depending on the season you choose to elope, you will need different clothing. With that said, it’s important that your wedding dress is breathable and that you can move easily in it. You will want to wear comfortable, waterproof hiking boots.

If you are eloping in winter, you will need some thermal underwear and warm outerwear, like a coat or fur. In spring, be prepared with ponchos and umbrellas in case of rain showers. For more detailed information about what to pack for a hiking elopement, you can check our our blog post here.

Where should I stay when eloping at Glacier National Park?

There are several lodging options within the park, from campgrounds to historic lodges. It’s important to book early, especially if you plan to elope during the peak season from July to September. For a more private experience, consider renting a cozy cabin or staying in nearby towns like Whitefish or Kalispell. Here are some great options:

Lodge at Whitefish Lake

This resort is located on the scenic shores of Whitefish Lake in Montana. It’s an upscale modern rustic lodge that offers luxurious accommodations, including lakefront rooms, suites, and cozy cabins. There’s a variety of amenities, such as a spa, fitness center, and multiple dining options, so it serves as a great base for your adventure elopement.

Many Glacier Hotel

Many Glacier Hotel is a historic and iconic lodge known for it’s Swiss architecture and rustic atmosphere. It’s actually listed on the National Register of Historic Places, so you know it’s the real deal. It’s located inside the national park, so you will be have scenic views from every window and the dining is exquisite.

Private Cabins

You have many private cabins to choose from on Airbnb, VRBO, and other short term rental sites. Here are a couple great options:

Treetops Glacier – This treehouse cabin in West Glacier, Montana has stunning views and a gorgeous interior. Thought it comes at a higher price tag than the others on this list. With it’s giant windows covering the entire wall on two ends, you are immersed in nature. The hot tub is a nice touch too.

Cabin in Kalispell – While this option is less modern than the one above, it’s also quite a bit more budget friendly than all the other options. And, it still gives you the privacy and amenities like a hot tub.

Additional Tips

• Leave No Trace: Glacier National Park is a protected area, so it’s crucial to respect the environment. You should leave it better than you found it. Make sure to follow Leave No Trace principles to keep the park clean for future visitors and all the critters.
• Prepare for Wildlife: Speaking of critters, be aware of the wildlife in the area, including bears and mountain goats. Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
• Be Flexible: Weather can change quickly in the mountains. Having a backup plan in case of rain or other unexpected conditions, or just having a go with the flow attitude will make things go much smoother.

As one of my favorite national parks, I truly recommend eloping at Glacier National Park. It has so many scenic views to choose from, I am sure you will find something you love. I hope this guide gave you some valuable information for elopement planning in Montana. If you aren’t certain Glacier National Park is right for you, here’s a list of other national parks. If you do think Glacier National Park is the perfect spot for your big day, reach out to me. We can work together to make your Glacier National Park elopement the wedding of your dreams.