Best Places to Elope in the US
Locations from the East Coast to the West Coast
ELOPING IN THE USA
Welcome to your ultimate guide for the best elopement locations in the United States. As an elopement photographer, I've had the opportunity to see many hidden gems and document love stories amidst those gems.
In this guide, I unveil the most enchanting destinations across this vast country, where couples can exchange their promises amidst stunning scenery, unbound by tradition and surrounded by the raw beauty of nature.
Whether you dream of saying "I do" on windswept mountains, beneath towering redwoods, or in the soft glow of a coastal sunset, these locations promise an elopement experience that transcends the ordinary.
TOP 5 WESTERN USA ELOPEMENT LOCATIONS
- San Juan Mountains, Colorado
- Yosemite National Park, California
- Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
- Redwoods Forest, California
- Kauai, Hawaii
SAN JUAN MOUNTAINS
The San Juans spread across southwest Colorado in the towns of Ouray, Telluride, and Silverton. They are called the "Switzerland of America" due to their unique jagged peaks. Depending on where you stay, there are lots of entry point trails and open areas for a ceremony, private vows, and exploring on your elopement day.
PROS:
- Private and secluded
- Hidden gem spots
- Unique jagged mountains
- No permit required for most spots
- Beautiful year-round
CONS:
- Roads are rugged and require attentiveness
- Very high altitudes 9,000 ft and up (arrive at least a few days before your elopement to acclimate)
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YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK
This iconic park in California is known for its granite cliffs, majestic waterfalls, and ancient sequoia trees. Imagine exchanging vows against the backdrop of Yosemite Valley's dramatic landscapes, with iconic landmarks like El Capitan and Half Dome framing your special day. Yosemite offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and stargazing.
PROS:
- One of the most scenic national parks in the world
- Variety of ceremony locations
- Year-round access with different seasonal beauty
- Easy access to amenities in nearby towns
CONS:
- Requires a special use permit for elopements
- Gets very crowded May–September
- Limited cell service and parking in the valley
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MOUNT RAINIER NATIONAL PARK
Mount Rainier rises like a dream above Washington’s evergreen forests and wildflower fields. It’s perfect for couples who want a truly Pacific Northwest feel with epic backdrops, moody vibes, and lush alpine terrain. Sunrise and sunset here feel otherworldly, especially in the summer bloom season.
PROS:
- Iconic views of the glacier-capped volcano
- Lush forests, wildflowers, and waterfalls
- Less hot and dry than other mountain destinations
CONS:
- Limited elopement season due to snow (typically late July–Sept)
- Weather can be unpredictable and foggy
- Permit required for ceremonies
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REDWOOD FOREST
There’s something almost sacred about standing beneath the towering ancient redwoods. Eloping here feels like entering a fairytale—quiet, misty, and deeply intimate. Whether you're surrounded by ferns on a hidden trail or exchanging vows in a forest clearing, the magic is undeniable.
PROS:
- Incredibly peaceful setting
- Great for couples who want privacy
- Lots of quiet, lesser-known groves outside the main tourist zones
- Open year-round, temperate weather
CONS:
- Rainy season stretches from fall to spring
- Need to plan around tourism in more accessible groves
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KAUAI, HAWAII
Kauai is the definition of tropical paradise. Known as the “Garden Isle,” it offers lush jungles, dramatic sea cliffs, secluded beaches, and cascading waterfalls—all packed into one breathtaking island. For couples who want to combine their elopement with a honeymoon, this place is hard to beat.
PROS:
- Dreamy scenery with beaches, cliffs, waterfalls, and jungle
- Year-round warm weather
- Stunning sunset and sunrise ceremony options
CONS:
- Requires travel logistics and flight planning
- Permits and beach regulations vary by location
- Can be rainy, especially in winter (north side gets more rain)
TOP 5 EASTERN USA ELOPEMENT LOCATIONS
- The Adirondack Mountains
- Acadia National Park
- Great Smoky Mountains
- 30A Florida
- The Keys
ADIRONDACK MOUNTAINS
The Adirondacks are a dreamy mix of sparkling lakes, rolling forested peaks, and cozy cabin charm. Tucked in upstate New York, this massive wilderness area is perfect for couples who want a peaceful, nature-filled elopement with East Coast flair—especially in the fall when the foliage explodes with color.
PROS:
- Incredible fall colors (some of the best in the U.S.)
- Tons of secluded spots for privacy
- Great variety of landscapes: lakes, forests, mountains
- Charming small towns like Lake Placid for post-elopement vibes
CONS:
- Weather can be unpredictable, especially in early spring and late fall
- Some trailheads are very remote
- Cell service and accommodations can be spotty in backcountry areas
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ACADIA NATIONAL PARK
Perched on the rugged coast of Maine, Acadia blends the best of both worlds: dramatic ocean cliffs and pine-covered mountain trails. The sound of waves crashing, the smell of salt in the air, and sweeping coastal views make it a breathtaking place for a moody, romantic elopement.
PROS:
- Gorgeous sunrises from Cadillac Mountain, which is the first place the sun rises in the US
- Unique coastal-meets-mountain scenery
- Great food and lodging options in nearby Bar Harbor
- Cooler summer temperatures make it great for eloping June–October
CONS:
- Ceremony permits required for many locations
- Very popular in summer and fall—can be crowded
- Short elopement season (winters are cold and icy)
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GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS
Foggy peaks, lush green valleys, and waterfalls galore—Great Smoky Mountains National Park is filled with quiet magic. As one of the most biodiverse parks in the U.S., it offers dreamy elopement backdrops that feel straight out of a storybook, especially in spring or early summer.
PROS:
- Lush forests, wildflowers, and waterfalls
- Romantic misty mountain views
- Drivable for most travelers
- Affordable lodging and plenty of charming cabins nearby
CONS:
- Requires a permit for any ceremony
- Can be very busy in fall and summer
- Weather can be humid and buggy, especially in July/August
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30A, FLORIDA
30A is Florida’s coastal hidden gem—a string of charming beach towns with white sand, turquoise water, and a laid-back southern vibe. It’s perfect for couples wanting a relaxed, stylish beach elopement with a touch of luxury and plenty of sunshine.
PROS:
- Gorgeous white-sand beaches and clear Gulf water
- Mild winters and long beach season
- Tons of cute towns (like Seaside or Rosemary Beach) with stylish vibes
- Beachfront lodging and intimate dining options
CONS:
- Summer is hot, humid, and crowded
- Requires beach permits and may have ceremony restrictions
- Hurricane season runs Aug–Oct
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THE FLORIDA KEYS
The Keys offer a tropical escape without leaving the mainland U.S. With colorful sunsets, palm-lined beaches, and crystal-clear water, this island chain is perfect for couples seeking a laid-back, island-style elopement filled with sunshine and salty air.
PROS:
- Beautiful ocean views, sunsets, and tropical vibes
- Year-round warm weather
- Tons of quirky, fun spots for photos (especially in Key West)
- Great spot to roll your elopement into a honeymoon
CONS:
- Travel logistics can be tricky, especially to farther islands
- Hurricane season risk (mainly August–October)
CHOOSE A LOCATION
BASED ON YOUR LOVe
Remember the why behind your elopement. What is most important to you? Pick the location that resonates.
CHOOSE A LOCATION BASED ON YOUR LOVe
BEST TIME OF YEAR TO ELOPE in the us
Summer (June – August) – Best for alpine hikes, wildflowers, and snow-free mountain passes
Fall (September – October) – Stunning golden trees, crisp air, fewer tourists
Winter (November – March) – Snow-covered landscapes, perfect for ski elopements
Spring (April – May) – Unpredictable weather, but beautiful in low elevation
WHAT ARE THE SEASONS LIKE?
HOW CAN WE AVOID CROWDS?
To avoid tourists and large crowds in popular locations like Yosemite National Park and Mount Rainier, you should choose an off-time or season to elope. The busiest months are June-September, and the busiest times are the weekends.
If you want to get married during those months, I suggest a weekday for your elopement. You'll have a unique wedding date! To be as close to prime weather as possible while remaining in tourist low season, pick a day in late May or October.
WHAT'S THE BEST TIME OF DAY TO ELOPE?
Honestly, anytime you want! I always recommend full-day adventure elopements to my adventurous couples. That way they can spend an entire day exploring together with no time constraints. When it comes to your elopement ceremony, sunrise is a wonderful time. If you're having some close friends and family members join in, you can make it an adventure for them too! Your day could look like: sunrise ceremony with your 10 people, private vows, an outdoor breakfast celebration, take a break, go for a hike, afternoon picnic, sunset with a view, then stargazing under a candlelit dinner.
LET'S TALK ABOUT PERMITS
LET'S TALK ABOUT PERMITS
Permit Requirements by Location
Sometimes; more flexible here.
What to Know:
- Many national forests allow small elopements (just the couple + photographer) without a permit
- Larger groups or use of decor may require a non-commercial group use or special event permit
- Photography permits may be required
- They're typically less crowded and more relaxed than national parks
- Still governed by Leave No Trace and land-use rules
NATIONAL FORESTS
Yes—almost always. If you're planning any kind of ceremony (even just the two of you), most national parks require a Special Use Permit (SUP).
What to Know:
- Application fees typically range from $50 to $300
- You’ll need to apply at least 7 weeks in advance
- Many parks designate specific ceremony locations
- Group size limits and rules on props (like arches or chairs) vary
- Leave No Trace principles are strictly enforced
- Some parks also require a photography permit (separate or included)
NATIONAL PARKS
Usually yes, but the rules vary widely from state to state and even from park to park.
What to Know:
- Some parks allow ceremonies with just a day-use reservation, while others require a special event permit
- Fees can range from $25 to $250+
- Group size caps, noise limits, and decor restrictions are common
- Some smaller or less-busy state parks are more flexible
- It's always best to call the park office directly for specific details
state parks
LEGALLY GETTING MARRIED IN THE US
- Where: Typically a county clerk and recorder’s office in the State or county
- Who: Both partners must appear in person with valid identification (driver’s license, passport, or birth certificate)
- Have at least one witness at your ceremony
- Most states require an officiant for ceremonies (Colorado offers self-solemnization)
- Return the signed license to the county clerk to receive a marriage certificate
THE MARRIAGE LICENSE
- Colorado: $30, no witnesses or officiant required (self-solemnization allowed)
- California: $91, varies by county; some counties over $100
- Washington: $69, 3-day waiting period
- Hawaii: $65, online application required
- Tennessee: $100, discounted to $60 with premarital counseling
- Florida: $86, reduced to $61 if FL residents take premarital course
- New York: $35–$40, 24-hour waiting period
- Maine: $40, valid for 90 days
- North Carolina: $60, no waiting period
MARRIAGE LICENSES BY STATE
BONUS TIPS FOR YOUR COLORADO ELOPEMENT
Where to stay, things to do, and more
bonus tips FOR Y0UR ELOPEMENT
WHERE TO STAY
San Juan Mountains: Ouray & Telluride
Yosemite: Groveland & Oakhurst
Mount Rainier: Packwood & Ashford
Redwoods: Crescent City and Eureka
Kauai: Hanalei & Princeville
Adirondacks: Wawarsing & Lake Placid
Acadia: Bar Harbor & Trenton
Great Smokies: Gatlinburg & Townsend
30A: Rosemary & Santa Rosa
The Keys: Islamorada & Key Largo
AIRBNB
HOTELS and B&B's
San Juan Mountains: The Western
Yosemite: Firefall Ranch
Mount Rainier: Paradise Village
Redwoods: Benbow Historic Inn
Kauai: The Lodge at Kukui ula
Adirondacks: Lundy Farm
Acadia: Bar Harbor Lodging
Great Smokies: Dancing Bear Lodge
30A: The Pearl Hotel
The Keys: Islamorada Resort
THINGS TO DO
Elopement day activities
When choosing what to do on your elopement day, remember what's most important to the two of you. Think about how you want to celebrate and enjoy your day! Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Morning coffee
- Painting
- Hiking
- Horseback riding
- Share a picnic
- Private dinner
- Camping
- Kayaking
- Swimming
vendors for your destination elopement
HOW TO DECIDE ON VENDORS
CHOOSE AN ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER WISELY
Choose someone you not only connect with personality wise, but someone who knows all about Colorado and will guide you through the planning. This is something you should put high value on, as these photos will be the only thing from your elopement day that remain!
As a Colorado elopement photographer, I love helping couples plan and photograph their dream day! If you're looking for a photographer to be your built-in friend and elopement planner, then let's chat!
I recommend choosing vendors based on what you truly need. Book people that will love to be a part of your day and become friends throughout the process.
You may decide to order a bouquet from a local florist or a speciality cake for your elopement picnic. Whatever you decide, make sure it resonates with how you want your elopement day to flow. Remember to ask the question,"What is most important to us?"
TAKE IT FROM COUPLES JUST LIKE You
TAKE IT FROM COUPLES JUST LIKE YOU
