Best Places to Elope in the U.S.
What Is An Elopement
Before choosing between the best places to elope, it might be best to first decide if it’s even right for you to elope! So, what even is an elopement?
An elopement is a type of wedding that focuses on intimacy, intentionality, and a personalized experience, often involving just the couple or a very small group of loved ones. Unlike traditional weddings with large guest lists and big venues, elopements are usually smaller, more private ceremonies held in meaningful or adventurous locations—like a mountain summit, a national park, a forest, or a beach.
Originally, the term "eloping" meant getting married secretly without telling anyone, but the modern meaning has evolved. Today’s elopements are about choosing a wedding day that reflects your values and desires, without the pressure or expectations of a traditional event.
Many couples choose to elope because they want:
A stress-free, non-traditional wedding
A deeper focus on each other and the commitment they’re making
To combine their wedding with travel or adventure
To save money or spend it on experiences rather than a large event
So now that you know what an elopement is, let’s talk about how to make it happen, and some of the best places for your elopement!
How To Elope
There are a few things to think about when eloping! Logistically, it’s still a lot easier than planning a traditional wedding, however there are a few key things that are important to think about during your planning process! In choosing your best place to elope, you’ll want to consider some of these factors too, like accommodation and activity options and how they fit your elopement vision!
Marriage License
To make your elopement legally official, you’ll need to get a marriage license from the state (or country) where you’re eloping. Each location has its own rules—some require a waiting period, witnesses, or an officiant. Research the local requirements well in advance and plan time in your trip to pick up the license, usually at a county clerk’s office. Don't forget to bring the necessary documents, like IDs or birth certificates!
Permits
If you’re eloping in a national park or other public land, you’ll likely need a special use permit for your ceremony and photography. These permits help preserve the natural space and ensure your elopement is allowed in that location. It’s important to apply early—some parks book up months in advance. Each park has its own rules, so double-check what’s required for your specific location. When choosing between the best places to elope, this might be something to consider, especially considering how much time or lack of time you have to plan for your permit.
Vendors
Even with a small elopement, a few great vendors can make a big impact. Consider hiring an elopement photographer, officiant, florist, or hair and makeup artist. Many vendors specialize in intimate weddings and can help you craft a day that feels personal and meaningful. Look for people whose style and values align with yours, especially if you’re planning in a remote or outdoor setting. As an elopement photographer, a large part of my expertise is in things like this! Helping you figure out the best place to elope, but also the locations, activities and type of day you want to have. The earlier you hire your elopement photographer, the more they can help you with these things.
Accommodations
Choosing the right place to stay can set the tone for your whole elopement experience. Whether it's a cozy cabin, a mountain lodge, a glamping tent, or a boutique hotel, find a spot that fits your vibe and is close to your elopement location. Book early, especially in popular areas or national parks where lodging fills up fast. You might also want to find somewhere special for the night of your elopement to celebrate.
Activities
One of the best parts of eloping is crafting a day that’s totally unique to you. Think beyond just the ceremony—what would make the day feel magical? You could go for a sunrise hike, kayak on a lake, stargaze, have a picnic, explore a new trail, or just relax in nature. Plan a few meaningful activities that let you enjoy the experience together, and remember—there’s no "right" way to elope. Again, consider these ideas when choosing your elopement location, as some locations are better suited for certain activties!
Best Places To Elope in the U.S.
Utah
Why Utah is One of the Best Places to Elope?
Utah is a dream elopement destination for couples who love dramatic landscapes, epic adventure, and quiet, off-the-beaten-path beauty. With its five iconic national parks (yes, five!!) — Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Canyonlands, and Capitol Reef—plus countless state parks and hidden gems, Utah offers stunning natural backdrops that range from towering red rock canyons to colorful desert hoodoos and alpine peaks. The variety of scenery, the wide-open public lands, and the ability to plan everything from a simple overlook ceremony to a full-day hiking adventure make Utah incredibly versatile and photogenic. On top of that, it’s easy to travel within the state, and many areas are accessible year-round.
When to Elope in Utah
The best time to elope in Utah depends on where you’re going and what kind of weather you’re hoping for.
Spring (March–May) is a great time for desert locations like Moab and Zion—mild temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and fewer crowds than summer.
Fall (September–October) is also ideal, offering cooler weather, colorful foliage in higher elevations, and gorgeous golden light.
Summer (June–August) can be very hot in the desert, but it’s perfect for higher-elevation spots like Bryce Canyon or the Wasatch Mountains.
Winter (November–February) brings snow to many parts of Utah, but it’s still possible to elope in places like Snow Canyon or Capitol Reef with the right prep. Winter also means fewer people and a quiet, intimate vibe.
Best Places to Elope in Utah
Utah is packed with breathtaking elopement spots. Here are some of the best:
Zion National Park – With towering sandstone cliffs, slot canyons, and riverside trails, Zion is perfect for adventurous couples.
Bryce Canyon National Park – Known for its surreal hoodoo rock formations, Bryce looks especially magical at sunrise or in winter snow.
Arches National Park – Iconic natural arches and red rock vistas make this one of Utah’s most photogenic landscapes.
Canyonlands National Park – Remote, rugged, and vast—ideal for a more secluded, wild desert experience.
Snow Canyon State Park – A lesser-known gem with lava flows, red cliffs, and bright white sandstone—a gorgeous and accessible location.
The Bonneville Salt Flats – For something truly unique, the mirror-like salt flats create a surreal and minimalist elopement backdrop.
Wasatch Mountains – For couples who love mountain views, wildflowers, and alpine lakes, this region near Salt Lake City is perfect.
Washington
Why Washington is One of the Best Places to Elope
Washington is an elopement paradise for couples who crave diverse, dramatic landscapes and moody Pacific Northwest vibes. From glacier-capped mountains and alpine lakes to rugged coastlines and mossy rainforests, the state offers an incredible range of natural beauty all within a few hours’ drive. Whether you're dreaming of a mountaintop ceremony, a forest trail adventure, or a sunset elopement on the coast, Washington has it all. Plus, much of the state's wilderness is accessible without long hikes, and the public lands offer plenty of privacy for intimate elopements. Its variety, accessibility, and year-round beauty make it one of the best places to craft a meaningful, outdoorsy elopement day.
When to Elope in Washington
Washington’s best elopement timing depends on your location and weather preferences:
Summer (July–September) is peak season for mountain elopements in places like Mount Rainier and the North Cascades. Trails are mostly snow-free, wildflowers are blooming, and the weather is reliably clear.
Fall (late September–October) brings golden larches, vibrant foliage, and fewer crowds, especially in the mountains and forests.
Spring (April–June) is lush and green, perfect for coastal or rainforest locations, but most mountain areas still have snow.
Winter (November–March) is ideal for couples who want snowy mountain backdrops or cozy forest vibes, especially in places like Mount Baker or Olympic National Park. It’s also a quiet time to explore the coast.
Best Places to Elope in Washington
Here are some of the most stunning places to elope in Washington:
Olympic National Park – One of the most diverse national parks in the U.S., with wild beaches, old-growth rainforests, and alpine peaks all in one place. Perfect for full-day or multi-location elopements.
Check out this Olympic National Park Elopement
North Cascades National Park – Dramatic mountain views, turquoise lakes, and quiet trails make this a paradise for adventurous couples.
Check out this North Cascades National Park Engagement Session
Mount Rainier National Park – Iconic meadows, wildflowers, and glacier views surround Washington’s most famous peak. Ideal for summer and fall elopements.
Check out this Mt. Rainier National Park Intimate Wedding
Snoqualmie and Central Cascades – Just an hour or two from Seattle, this area offers lush forests, waterfalls, and alpine lakes for a more accessible wilderness elopement.
Check out this Snoqualmie Adventure Session
Mount Baker Wilderness – Less crowded than the big-name parks, this area has sweeping views, wildflowers, and epic ridgelines.
Check out this Mt. Baker Elopement
San Juan Islands – A beautiful mix of forest, cliffs, and ocean views, reachable via ferry from Seattle for a scenic but low-key elopement.
Maine
Why Maine is One of the Best Places to Elope
Maine is an incredible elopement destination for couples who love coastal charm, forested mountains, and peaceful, off-the-beaten-path locations. Especially if you’re looking for something magical on the east coast! It offers a unique mix of rugged Atlantic shoreline, serene lakes, pine-covered peaks, and quaint New England towns. Maine is especially ideal for couples who want a slower pace, stunning landscapes without the crowds, and a touch of seaside magic. Whether you're hiking to a mountaintop in Acadia, exchanging vows on a rocky beach, or sailing into the sunset, Maine provides a backdrop that feels wild, cozy, and romantic all at once.
When to elope in Maine
The best time to elope in Maine is typically late spring or fall, though each season has its charm:
Summer (June–August) is warm and sunny, perfect for coastal ceremonies and hiking adventures. It’s also the most popular season, so expect more visitors in places like Acadia.
Fall (late September–October) is absolutely magical, with vibrant foliage and crisp air—ideal for a cozy, colorful elopement in the mountains or forest.
Spring (May–early June) brings blooming wildflowers and fewer crowds, though the weather can be unpredictable and a bit muddy in the mountains.
Winter (November–April) is cold and snowy, best suited for couples who love wintery vibes and are prepared for Maine’s harsher coastal or inland conditions.
Best Places to Elope in Maine
Acadia National Park – With granite peaks, coastal cliffs, quiet forests, and sunrise views from Cadillac Mountain, Acadia offers one of the most diverse and beautiful elopement settings on the East Coast.
Check out this Ultimate Guide to Getting Married in Acadia National Park
Mount Desert Island (outside of Acadia) – Offers similar landscapes to the national park but with more privacy and flexibility for your ceremony.
Midcoast Maine – Quaint harbor towns, lighthouses, and rocky beaches make this a picturesque area for a romantic, seaside elopement.
Moosehead Lake Region – Remote, wild, and peaceful. Perfect for couples who want a quiet, nature-immersed elopement in northern Maine.
Western Maine Mountains – For couples who love fall foliage, remote cabins, and mountain views, this region offers stunning forested backdrops with fewer visitors.
Maine Elopement Resources
Elopment Packages and Timelines for Acadia National Park
California
Why California is One of the Best Places to Elope
California is one of the most diverse and awe-inspiring places in the U.S. to elope. Whether you’re dreaming of ocean cliffs, alpine lakes, towering redwoods, sun-soaked deserts, or granite peaks, California has it all. Its sheer variety of landscapes means you can create any type of elopement experience—from a peaceful beachside vow exchange to a full-day hiking adventure in the mountains. California also has mild weather year-round in many areas, making it easy to plan a stunning outdoor elopement in any season. With world-class parks, scenic highways, and off-the-beaten-path gems, California offers limitless possibilities for couples who want an intentional, breathtaking elopement day.
When to Elope in California
California is a year-round elopement destination, but the best time to elope depends on where you’re going:
Coastal Areas (like Big Sur) are beautiful year-round, though spring and fall tend to offer the best weather with fewer crowds.
Mountains (like Yosemite or the Sierra Nevada) are best in late spring through early fall (May–October) when snow has melted and trails are open.
Deserts (like Joshua Tree or Death Valley) are ideal in fall, winter, or early spring (October–April), as summer temps can be dangerously hot.
Redwood forests and Northern California are lush and misty throughout the year, with spring and fall being especially scenic and comfortable.
Best Places to Elope in California
Yosemite National Park – Jaw-dropping granite cliffs, waterfalls, alpine meadows, and epic viewpoints like Glacier Point or Taft Point. Make sure you visit here when Glacier Point Road is open!
Big Sur – One of the most romantic and dramatic coastal destinations with cliffs, wildflowers, and crashing waves.
Redwood National and State Parks – Ancient trees, soft forest light, and peaceful trails make this a magical place to elope.
Joshua Tree National Park – Dreamy desert landscapes with funky rock formations and stargazing-perfect skies.
Lake Tahoe – Crystal-clear lakes, alpine peaks, and year-round beauty, great for both summer hikes and snowy winter ceremonies.
Death Valley National Park – Surreal desert colors, salt flats, and total seclusion. Perfect for couples wanting something truly unique.
Point Reyes National Seashore – Misty coastal cliffs, rolling hills, and elk herds—a moody, wild setting just outside San Francisco.
Mammoth Lakes or Eastern Sierra – Remote alpine lakes, hot springs, and less-crowded mountain vibes.
Sequoia National Parks – Towering trees and mountain views for a peaceful, powerful forest elopement.
Hawaii
Why Hawaii is One of the Best Places to Elope
Hawai’i is a tropical dream for couples looking to elope in a place that feels both deeply romantic and wildly adventurous. The islands offer an unmatched combination of dramatic cliffs, lush rainforests, pristine beaches, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes. Kaua’i, known as the “Garden Isle,” is perfect for couples craving seclusion, jungle vibes, and jaw-dropping natural beauty. Maui offers a balance of accessible beaches, upscale amenities, and adventurous terrain—from sunrise on Haleakalā to the waterfalls along the Road to Hāna. Both islands allow you to slow down, be present, and exchange vows in a truly unforgettable setting. Hawai’i also embraces a strong sense of aloha and spiritual connection to the land, making it an incredibly meaningful place to begin a marriage.
When to elope in Hawaii
Hawai’i is a year-round elopement destination, but here’s a breakdown for the best timing on Kaua’i and Maui:
April to early June and September to mid-November are considered ideal—off-peak seasons with great weather, fewer crowds, and slightly lower prices.
Winter (December–March) is wetter, especially on Kaua’i’s north shore, but still beautiful and lush. You’ll also get whale watching season on Maui!
Summer (July–August) brings drier weather but higher crowds and warmer temps—especially on beaches and in tourist-heavy areas.
Both islands have microclimates, so even if it’s rainy in one area, you can often drive to sunshine elsewhere on the island.
Best Places to Elope in Hawaii
Kaua’i:
Nā Pali Coast (via helicopter, boat, or hike) – Towering emerald cliffs and ocean views create one of the most iconic backdrops in the world.
Waimea Canyon (the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”) – A colorful canyon with sweeping views and nearby waterfall hikes.
Hanalei Bay & North Shore Beaches – Soft golden sand, mountain backdrops, and gentle waves—perfect for a relaxed ceremony.
Maui:
Haleakalā National Park – Watch the sunrise above the clouds, then explore volcanic craters and stargaze at night.
Check out this blog post: How to Plan an Adventure Elopement in Maui
Road to Hāna – Lush rainforests, black sand beaches, bamboo forests, and waterfalls—ideal for a full-day adventure elopement.
Check out this Road to Hana Elopement
ʻĪao Valley State Park – A sacred and lush valley steeped in history, surrounded by steep green cliffs and misty forests.
Alaska
Why Alaska is One of the Best Places to Elope
Alaska is perfect for couples who crave awe-inspiring wilderness and a true sense of adventure. Known for its glaciers, snow-capped peaks, vast tundras, fjords, and abundant wildlife, Alaska offers a raw and wild beauty unlike anywhere else in the world. Eloping in Alaska means trading crowds for solitude, and touristy backdrops for untouched landscapes. Whether you're kayaking near glaciers, taking a floatplane to a remote mountain lake, or hiking to a hidden waterfall, every moment feels extraordinary. For couples who want their wedding day to reflect freedom, exploration, and connection to nature, Alaska is truly one of the best places to elope.
When to Elope in Alaska
Alaska's elopement season is shaped by its extreme seasonal shifts. Here's the best timing to consider:
Summer (June–August) is the best time for most elopements. You’ll have long daylight hours (up to 20+ hours!), milder temperatures, accessible hiking trails, and optimal wildlife viewing.
Late Spring (May) can be beautiful, with snow still on the mountains but wildflowers beginning to bloom in lower elevations.
Fall (September) brings cooler temps, golden tundra, and early chances of northern lights. The season is short but stunning.
Winter (October–April) is only recommended for couples seeking snowy backdrops, winter sports, or northern lights—be prepared for extreme cold and very short daylight hours.
Best Places to Elope in Alaska
Denali National Park – Home to North America’s tallest peak, vast valleys, wildlife, and true wilderness. Remote and stunning.
Kenai Fjords National Park – Towering glaciers, tidewater coastlines, and opportunities to elope by kayak or boat.
Check out this Seward Helicopter Elopement in the Kenai Fjords
Hatcher Pass – Rolling alpine meadows, scenic mountain roads, and a dreamy mix of rugged and peaceful.
Matanuska Glacier – A massive, accessible glacier where couples can literally get married on the ice (with a guide).
Kachemak Bay (Homer area) – Remote coastal cabins, black sand beaches, and epic views. You can even take a water taxi to your ceremony spot.
Girdwood – A cozy mountain town with access to glaciers, hikes, and ski areas—great for a winter elopement.
Fairbanks (for winter northern lights elopements) – Ideal for couples wanting a magical elopement under the aurora borealis.
Oregon
Why Oregon is One of the Best Places to Elope
Oregon is a paradise for couples who want an elopement that feels both adventurous and deeply connected to nature. From misty forests and dramatic coastlines to high desert plateaus and snow-capped mountains, Oregon has it all—and often within a few hours’ drive. Whether you’re dreaming of a coastal cliffside ceremony, a waterfall backdrop in a mossy gorge, or a mountaintop vow exchange, you’ll find it here. Oregon is also incredibly elopement-friendly, with public lands, trail access, and vendor communities that support nontraditional weddings. It’s ideal for couples who want their day to feel meaningful, outdoorsy, and a little bit wild.
When to elope in Oregon
Oregon Coast – Best in late spring through early fall (May–October). Expect some fog and wind year-round, but summer tends to be drier.
Columbia River Gorge & Waterfalls – Spring and early summer (April–June) are ideal when waterfalls are gushing and the landscape is lush and green.
Mountains (Mt. Hood, Three Sisters, Crater Lake) – Mid-summer to early fall (July–September) is best for accessibility and snow-free trails.
High Desert (Bend, Smith Rock) – Great for spring and fall, when temps are milder. Summer can be hot and winter snowy.
Willamette Valley (wine country) – Elope here spring through fall for vineyard views, wildflowers, and rolling hills.
Best Places to Elope in Oregon
Oregon Coast – Dramatic sea stacks, windswept cliffs, tide pools, and foggy magic. Top spots include Cannon Beach, Cape Kiwanda, Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor, and Heceta Head.
Check out this Southern Oregon Coast Elopement
Columbia River Gorge – Home to iconic waterfalls like Latourell, Bridal Veil, and Multnomah Falls, plus sweeping canyon views.
Mount Hood National Forest – Forested trails, alpine lakes like Trillium Lake, and incredible views of the mountain.
Smith Rock State Park – A high desert gem with golden cliffs, winding rivers, and epic climbing or hiking elopements.
Crater Lake National Park – A dramatic blue crater lake surrounded by forest—amazing for elopements at sunrise or sunset.
Bend & Central Oregon – A high desert playground with mountain views, lava fields, and sunny weather. Great base for adventure elopements.
Wyoming
Why Wyoming is One of the Best Places to Elope
Wyoming is a dream elopement destination for couples drawn to wide open skies, rugged mountain ranges, and true Western solitude. With two of the most scenic national parks in the country—Grand Teton and Yellowstone—Wyoming offers stunning alpine lakes, dramatic peaks, geothermal wonders, and abundant wildlife. But beyond the parks, the state is full of remote landscapes, from rolling plains to wildflower-covered meadows. It's perfect for couples who want their wedding day to feel grounded, adventurous, and connected to the raw beauty of nature. The sparse population and wide-open spaces also mean it’s easy to find privacy for your vows—even in iconic places.
When to elope in Wyoming
The best time to elope in Wyoming depends on your ideal setting and weather preferences:
Summer (June–August) is the prime elopement season. Snow has melted, trails are accessible, wildflowers are blooming, and the weather is warm (but not too hot).
Fall (September–early October) is crisp and colorful, with fewer tourists and golden aspen trees lighting up the mountainsides.
Spring (May–early June) can be unpredictable, with lingering snow in higher elevations but blooming in the lower valleys.
Winter (late October–April) offers a quiet, snow-covered wonderland and is great for adventurous couples into skiing, snowshoeing, or cozy cabin vibes—especially around Jackson Hole.
Best Places to Elope in Wyoming
Grand Teton National Park – Towering granite peaks, alpine lakes, wildlife, and some of the most iconic elopement backdrops in the U.S.
Check out this Grand Teton National Park Adventure Session
Yellowstone National Park – Geothermal features like geysers and hot springs, waterfalls, and remote backcountry beauty. Ideal for couples wanting a unique, otherworldly landscape.
Jackson Hole – A vibrant mountain town with luxury cabins, outdoor access, and stunning views of the Tetons. Great for couples wanting comfort + adventure.
Check out this Jackson Hole Intimate Wedding
Bridger-Teton National Forest – Offers similar views to the Tetons but with more privacy and flexibility for where you say your vows.
Check out this Bridger-Teton National Forest Elopement
Bighorn Mountains – Quieter than other areas, with forests, wildflowers, and dramatic cliffs—perfect for off-the-beaten-path ceremonies.
Hot Springs State Park (Thermopolis) – For something totally different, consider a quiet ceremony followed by a soak in natural hot springs.
Arizona
Why Arizona is One of the Best Places to Elope
Arizona is a stunning elopement destination for couples drawn to desert magic, iconic red rock landscapes, and wide-open skies. Whether you're exchanging vows among the towering cliffs of Sedona, beneath the vast sky of the Sonoran Desert, or along the rim of the Grand Canyon, Arizona offers a sense of stillness, beauty, and awe that’s hard to match. With year-round elopement potential in different regions, Arizona is perfect for couples seeking adventure, meaningful connection to nature, and dreamy golden-hour light. Plus, many areas offer easy access to hiking, stargazing, and luxury accommodations—so you can pair rugged scenery with relaxing touches.
When to Elope in Arizona
Arizona’s weather and elevation vary greatly by location, so timing depends on where you’re eloping:
Sedona + Grand Canyon – Best in spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) when temperatures are mild, and trails are accessible.
Desert areas (Phoenix, Tucson, Saguaro National Park) – Ideal from October to April when temperatures are cooler and comfortable. Summers here can be dangerously hot.
Northern Arizona or high elevations (Flagstaff, Mogollon Rim) – Great for summer elopements (June–September) when lower desert areas are too hot.
Best Places to Elope in Arizona
Sedona – Red rock spires, vortex energy, epic hiking trails, and golden sunsets. It’s one of the most popular—and spiritual—elopement spots in the Southwest.
Check out this Hiking Elopement in Sedona or this Jeep Elopement in Sedona
Grand Canyon National Park – Iconic and powerful. Whether you want a South Rim ceremony with epic views or a more remote North Rim adventure, this place is unforgettable.
Horseshoe Bend / Page Area – Sweeping views of the Colorado River, dramatic cliffs, and nearby slot canyons. Ideal for couples who want a surreal desert landscape.
Superstition Mountains (near Phoenix) – Rugged and moody desert vibes with cactus-studded trails and fewer crowds than Sedona.
Saguaro National Park – Towering cacti, dreamy desert sunsets, and a peaceful atmosphere near Tucson.
Flagstaff & San Francisco Peaks – For couples wanting mountain views, alpine forests, and wildflower meadows in summer.
Antelope Canyon (private tours available) – For truly unique photos in otherworldly light beams and sculpted sandstone walls.
Where is the Best Place for an Elopement?
That’s a big question, isn’t it! The truth is, there isn’t a singular best place to elope, but really there are SO many incredible places to consider! When choosing your elopement location, I would consider these things and how important they are as factors:
Time of year you want to elope
Type of landscape you’re inspired by
Type of activities you want to include on your elopement day
Travel distance and how much time you have for your trip
Thinking through these factors can help you quickly narrow your search down to a few of the best places to elope!
Also, one of my FAVORITE conversations to have is guiding couples on the best places to elope for them! If you’re wanting to chat about where you should plan for your elopement, get in touch and we can schedule a free planning call!