Planning your dream elopement in Grand Teton National Park for 2025? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make your special day unforgettable! From choosing the best time of year to securing permits and selecting the perfect ceremony location, Grand Teton National Park offers breathtaking beauty and adventure for your wedding day! Come read more about planning your Grand Teton National Park elopement!
Why Should You Elope At GTNP?
Grand Teton National Park is an enchanting destination to exchange your vows, offering an unforgettable blend of natural beauty and adventure. With its breathtaking mountain views, the park creates the perfect backdrop for your ceremony, whether bathed in the golden hues of sunrise or the warm glow of sunset.
Choosing to elope at GTNP simplifies the wedding planning process, providing a stress-free and intimate alternative to traditional weddings. Beyond its stunning scenery, the park is a haven for adventure lovers, with opportunities for hiking, stargazing, and more, making your special day even more memorable.
Adding to the magic, wildlife sightings are a common and delightful surprise. Imagine saying “I do” with a moose or an elk grazing nearby—it’s an experience you’ll treasure forever. If you’re dreaming of a romantic, adventurous, and truly unique elopement, Grand Teton National Park is the perfect place to start your journey together!
Best Time To Elope At Grand Teton National Park
The best time to elope depends on your vision for your elopement. Here’s a little breakdown by season:
- Spring: The park comes alive with blooming wildflowers and wildlife activity. However, trails may still be muddy or snowy in early spring!
- Summer: This time is perfect for outdoor ceremonies with warm weather and longer days. This is the busiest season, so make sure to plan ahead!
- Fall: Vibrant fall colors and cooler temperatures make autumn a romantic time to elope. It’s also less crowded than summer.
- Winter: A winter wonderland with snow-covered peaks and serene landscapes. Be prepared for cold temperatures and limited access to some locations!!
2025 Wedding Permit Details For Your Grand Teton National Park Elopement
To hold a ceremony in Grand Teton National Park, you’ll need a Special Park Use Permit. Applications open on Monday, December 16, 2024, at 8 AM MST (10 AM EST). Submit your application at least 30 days before your ceremony date! Available between May 16 – October 13, 2025, at approved locations such as Glacier View Turnout, Snake River Overlook, and Mormon Row. Note that some locations have already been filled for 2025, so act fast! Perfect for smaller gatherings, these permits are available year-round. Ceremonies are limited to one hour and require an application fee of $200. Be sure to follow all permit rules, including not throwing confetti or rice at any location!
Top Locations to Elope in GTNP
Grand Teton offers amazing ceremony locations, each with its own beauty:
- Mormon Row: Rustic barns with mountain views. It is easily accessible by car.
- Schwabacher’s Landing: A serene riverside spot. Accessible via a short walk from the parking area!
- Colter Bay: A lakeside location with stunning views. Well-suited for group ceremonies and it is easily accessible.
- Mountain View Turnout: Stunning mountain vistas. Accessible by car, but permits begin June 1, 2025, to protect vegetation.
- Jenny Lake: Iconic views and hiking trails nearby. A short walk from the parking area.
- Oxbow Bend: Famous for its reflections on the Tetons. Easy to access by car.
- The Wedding Tree: A hidden, peaceful spot. Accessible via a short hike. This location has its own permit fee of $300 you can get your permit here!
- Taggart Lake Trailhead: A beautiful hiking location with lake views. Requires a moderate hike!
Packing List for Your Elopement
Here’s what to bring to make sure your day goes smoothly:
- Elopement Attire/Footwear: Comfortable and weather-appropriate.
- Accessories/Backpack for Hiking: Pack essentials for any trails.
- Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Layers are super important!
- Sun Protection and First Aid: Stay safe in the great outdoors.
- Water and Snacks: Pack a variety of snacks to stay hydrated and energized.
- Marriage License/Required Documents: Don’t FORGET your permits!
- Bear Spray: Essential for hiking in Bear Country!
Things To Do After Your Elopement at Grand Teton National Park
Make your elopement truly unforgettable by incorporating some of your favorite activities into your special day! Grand Teton National Park offers endless opportunities to celebrate and soak in the beauty of the area. Here are some ideas to inspire your post-elopement adventure:
- Hiking: Explore one of the park’s many scenic trails and take in the stunning views of the mountains, lakes, and valleys.
- Horseback Riding: Embrace the spirit of the West with a romantic horseback ride through the park’s picturesque landscapes.
- Stargazing: End your day beneath a blanket of stars. The clear, dark skies of Grand Teton make it one of the best places for stargazing.
- Helicopter Tour: For a truly unforgettable experience, take to the skies for a breathtaking helicopter tour and enjoy panoramic views of the Tetons.
- Relax Around a Firepit: Unwind and soak in the moment by cozying up around a firepit with s’mores and a warm drink.
- Wildlife Watching: Don’t miss the chance to spot some of the park’s incredible wildlife, like bears, moose, elk, and more. Bring binoculars for an up-close look!
These activities are perfect for adding a sense of adventure and intimacy to your elopement, making your day as unique and special as your love story!
Best Lodging for Your Grand Teton Elopement
Stay close to the action with these amazing lodging options:
- Tammah: Perfect for glamping enthusiasts! Here the prices start at around $300 per night.
- The Virginian Lodge: Rustic beauty with modern amenities. Prices start at around $250 per night.
- Mountain Modern Motel: Budget-friendly and stylish rooms start around $200 per night.
- Hotel Jackson: Luxurious accommodations in Jackson. Prices at this hotel start at $600 per night.
Ready For Your GTNP Elopement? I Can’t Wait To Bring Your Day To Life! | Holly Meyer | Grand Teton National Park Elopement Photographer
Start planning as soon as possible to secure your desired ceremony location, lodging, and vendors! Grand Teton National Park is perfect for multi-day celebrations, offering a variety of activities to connect with nature and make memories that you guys will cherish forever. Ready for me to capture your amazing elopement? head to my contact page so we can chat about the ideas you have! If you want to learn more about me and what I do, click here. Can’t wait to hear from you!
