The Golden’s | Grand Teton National Park Elopement Guide | Wyoming Elopement Photographer

Grand Tetons Elopement Guide

Imagine standing in front of towering mountains with the person you love, the evening light painting the peaks gold, and the quiet beauty of nature all around you. This is the magic of eloping in Grand Teton National Park. Recently, I had the honor of photographing Brooke and Andre in one of the most beautiful and wild places on Earth, and their wedding day was nothing short of breathtaking. This post will not only highlight Brooke and Andre’s gorgeous elopement, but it will also give you some helpful tricks to plan your own elopement.

We began the day getting ready at their gorgeous airbnb, where their closest friends and family spent the weekend with them. Brooke had chosen the most beautiful little details for their wedding day. She got their wooden National Park Service sign custom made on Etsy. Isn’t it the cutest thing?! And how luck are they that their last name is Golden? All of the little gold details were such a cute way to represent their name. But our absolute favorite thing about her bridal look was, hands down, her embroidered veil. Complete with humming birds and golden florals. Absolutely stunning.

Permits and Regulations

A special use permit is required to perform your ceremony in Grand Tetons National Park. The application fee is $200.00. There are a few different types of permits. Applications must be submitted a minimum of 30 days prior to the ceremony date. You can carefully review the information and follow the directions on how to apply on the NPS website. READ HERE.

Ceremony Spots at Grand Teton National Park

Schwabacher’s Landing

The Schwabacher Landing ceremony location is available as a Reserved Site-Specific Wedding Ceremony Special Use Permit for groups up to 25 people between mid-May and mid-October. More info HERE.

Brooke and Andre had chosen Schwabacher’s Landing for their ceremony spot. We went the day before their wedding to check it out, and we found a couple of different spots we loved. We settled on the little lot right before Schwabacher’s Landing Trailhead because it was a little more private as there were tourists all over the place! This little spot was less travelled. It was the perfect backdrop for their intimate ceremony. The parking lot is just a short walk, and the best part is there were already two little benches set up with the perfect space in between them to create the feeling of an “aisle.” And of course, we had the most beautiful view of the mountains.

Some other beautiful spots to consider for your ceremony: Mormon Row North, Mormon Row South, Mountain View Turnout, Glacier View Turnout, Snake River Overlook, Colter Bay Swim Beach

Best Time to Elope at Grand Teton National Park

Fall in Grand Tetons

FALL: Fall is hands-down the best time to elope in Grand Teton National Park! More specifically September-October. There aren’t as many crowds, it isn’t as expensive, and you’ll more than likely encounter some gorgeous fall colors and wildlife. The weather is amazing, and there’s typically snow capped mountains!

WINTER: There is something so magical about those mountains covered in tons and tons of snow. However, be mindful that certain locations will be closed off. Like Schwabacher’s Landing – the road is typically closed after October.

SPRING: It’s still pretty cold in the early spring months, with lots of snow fall still pretty common. Spring really starts showing off in Late May. Similar to Fall, the Tetons are usually still snow capped and a beautiful sight to see!

SUMMER: June and July in particular is a very popular time to visit the Tetons. It’s when the wild flowers come out and it’s not too hot or too cold, but with the summer heat also bring wild fires – especially in late July or August. Be mindful of these things when planning.

Brooke and Andre’s ceremony was immediately followed by a champagne pop and first dance. I can’t think of anything more romantic than having your first dance in the mountains. After some family portraits, everyone headed back to the Airbnb to prep some dinner, while we walked around the area to take more bride and groom photos. And I know I already mentioned this before, but – HER VEIL?!?!?!?! I mean, come on. Gorgeous.

Ready to Elope in Grand Tetons National Park?

Every couple I photograph has a unique love story, but something I love about my elopement couples is that they all share a common desire for something unforgettable and deeply personal. This wedding was a reminder of the beauty that unfolds when two people celebrate their love in a place that feels as big and timeless as their commitment. If you’re dreaming of an adventure elopement in a place as magical as this, I’d love to be part of your story. Visit my contact page for more info!

XOXOXO,
Dawn