Hiking Elopement in Acadia National Park
If you’ve ever wondered what a true adventure elopement looks like in Acadia National Park, Amber and Ryan’s day is the perfect example. These two are from Connecticut and originally met in a hiking group—so of course, a hiking elopement was the only thing that felt right to them! They camp in Acadia every single year, and the park has become a place layered with nostalgia, tradition, and ease. Returning here to say their vows just made sense!
And honestly? Their Acadia hiking elopement day was everything I love about elopements in Maine: fiery foliage, coastal cliffs, quiet tucked-away corners, dramatic mountain views, and that soft yet vibrant sunset light that only coastal Maine can produce. This sunset might have been one of my favorite I’ve ever experienced in Acadia!
Hiking along Ocean Path
Mid-October is one of the busiest times of year in Acadia—but even then, it’s still possible to find peace, pockets of quiet, and intimate places that feel like your own. We met along Ocean Path to start their elopement day, wandering to a few of my favorite locations where the cliffs drop dramatically into the ocean and the crowds melt away.
We spent some time taking portraits along the coast and letting them really soak in the coastal part of the park, as the rest of the day had much higher elevations in store!
Pre Hike Picnic at Fabbri Picnic Area
Before starting our hike, we made our way to Fabbri Picnic Area, which ended up being such a sweet part of the day. Amber had spent months planning and collecting decor, props, and little meaningful details so she could craft a picnic that was just for them.
She set everything up herself: cozy blankets, decor, florals, snacks, cake, drinks—the whole spread felt warm, intentional, and romantic. It was the perfect slow moment in the middle of a big day. They ate, laughed, relaxed, and took their time before we packed up for the next phase of their elopement.
A Hiking Adventure for their Acadia Elopement
After the picnic, we hit the trail. This is one of my absolute favorite hikes in Acadia because:
It climbs to multiple peaks
The views shift dramatically the entire way
You get mountains, lakes, coastline, and offshore islands all in one hike
The light at sunset and blue hour is unreal
You feel so small and engulfed in the mountains all around you
Because we built in plenty of time, the entire hike felt unhurried, playful, and immersive, exactly what a hiking elopement should be.
At the first peak, with some of the most panoramic views on Mount Desert Island, we paused so Amber and Ryan could read private vows. There’s something so powerful about saying your vows with nothing but wind, rock, and fall colors surrounding you.
After their vows, we continued the hike to the next peak. We spent the rest of the daylight taking in the dramatic sunset colors, popping champagne, and reading some letters from their loved ones.
Hiking Back in the Dark
As the sun dipped below the horizon, we settled in for blue hour. We embraced the stillness for blue hour and lantern photos, one of my favorite ways to close out an adventure elopement day.
When we finally began the hike back down, the trail was quiet and cool (and dark 🤪), and Amber and Ryan were still glowing from everything they had shared.
Why I Love an Acadia Hiking Elopement
Amber and Ryan’s day is a perfect example of what’s possible when you choose a full-day hiking elopement in Acadia:
You get slow, meaningful moments in nature
You get to explore multiple parts of the park
You get ever-changing light and landscapes
You get privacy even in a busy season (I think we saw 5 people total on this trail?)
You get the space to breathe, connect, and make the day your own
Acadia offers some of the most dramatic views on the East Coast, between towering granite peaks, sparkling lakes, glacial-carved valleys, rugged coastline, and islands dotting the bay. It’s a place that feels wild, grounding, and deeply romantic.
Planning Your Own Acadia Hiking Elopement
If you’re dreaming of an Acadia National Park elopement that includes hiking, exploring, or a full-day adventure, this place is truly one of the best.
I help my couples:
Choose the perfect trails and locations
Navigate crowds and find secluded spots
Build timelines that feel natural and fun
Incorporate meaningful activities
Capture the day in a way that feels authentic
Amber and Ryan’s elopement was a perfect blend of intention, adventure, emotion, and natural beauty, and yours can be, too! If you’re ready to start the conversation about your Acadia hiking elopement, reach out below and let’s get the party started! Can’t wait to hear from you!