So you want to elope or maybe you’re just toying around with the idea right now.. But you need some ideas on where. Eloping is awesome because you can do whatever you want and go almost anywhere! I have put together my top 10 best elopement locations in the US. You will see that almost all of these locations are on the West Coast, as that is where I primarily work, and there are a lot of different landscapes to explore on this side of the US!
1. Utah
Maybe I am biased but Utah is one of the very best elopement locations in the US. I was born and raised in Utah and know this state like the back of my hand. It is one of the most versatile states in the US. You can find anything from pine trees, lakes and mountain views to red rock formations, desert sand, and crusty salt flats. There are countless spots in this state to elope. Some require permits but there are also many free locations to get married at in Utah!
2. Northern California
I could write an entire post just on Northern California. There are countless locations. You can find coastal cliffs, giant redwood trees, mountain ranges and big rocks in Northern California. Some of my favorite locations are Yosemite National Park, Redwood National Forest, Mt. Shasta, and Klamath National Forest.
3. Grand Teton National Park
The Tetons have gained much popularity in recent years as more people have discovered the park’s raw beauty. Therefore it can be quite busy and you can expect to pay high prices for lodging in peak season, but the mountain range is just stunning. It is also very close to Yellowstone National Park so you can double up the outdoor fun. Since it is a National Park you must obtain a permit to get married and follow the park’s rules. There are limited locations and wedding spots allowed each day, so start planning now!
4. Alaska
If you are looking for a private and unique elopement destination… you should highly consider Alaska. Not only will your friends think you are so cool, but it is so BEAUTIFUL, especially in the fall. There is so much room for adventure and exploration, from glacier elopements to helicopter tours to seeing the northern lights. No matter what you do, Alaska is one of the best elopement locations in the US and you are sure to have a fun day!
5. Oregon Coast
I have driven up and down the entire Oregon Coast multiple times and I can attest to how peaceful this place is. It is a beautiful, rugged coast with lots of little Easter eggs. You can elope somewhere touristy like Cannon Beach or somewhere more private in Brookings or Lincoln City.
6. North Cascades National Park
North Cascades is magical with its stunning mountain ranges and jagged peaks. This park is full of mountains, glaciers, streams, and forests so you have many options for your elopement location. It is best to elope in North Cascades between June and September when the main road is open and weather is at its best. Get your wedding permit here!
7. Breckenridge, CO
If you are a major dog lover, like myself, listen up. Colorado is currently the only state where your dog can sign your marriage license as a witness. And Breckenridge is one of Colorado’s most dog friendly cities. So if having your dogs with you on your elopement day is important to you… this is the place to do it!
8. Sedona, AZ
Sedona is a red rock kingdom. There are many views and overlooks that are accessible through an easy to moderate hike. Because it is a desert you can elope here year round. But avoid June to August if 90/100 degree weather isn’t your thing.
9. Dead Horse Point State Park – Moab, UT
Although Utah as a whole has already been mentioned, Dead Horse Point deserves its own spotlight. This State Park is a short 30 minute drive from Moab. It overlooks the Colorado River and Canyonlands National Park. It has a dramatic landscape and is less expensive than getting married in a National Park.
10. Death Valley National Park
I had to include a less popular, but well deserving location on this list. If you want to elope between November-March most of the locations listed above are snow packed. But not Death Valley! In fact, that is the best time to visit this park. And you truly will feel like you are on another planet here. The landscape is so unique and unlike other National Parks, you are more likely to find privacy in Death Valley.
Some Runner Up Locations
Kanab, UT
Whitefish, MT
Glacier National Park, MT
Bend, OR
Sawtooth Mountains – Stanley, ID
If architecture and urban is more of your vibe San Francisco City Hall and New York City are both beautiful locations surrounded by lots to do!
I travel and shoot at all of these locations, and I’d love to help you plan your elopement!
When deciding where to elope, ask yourself a few questions:
- Is there any place that is meaningful to our relationship? Maybe the place you got engaged or your favorite trip together. Or maybe it’s somewhere closer, like the canyon you two go hiking and skiing in together.
- Is there somewhere new we want to see together? This is a common decision maker for couples eloping. It gives you the opportunity to spend your time seeing somewhere new and making it a new special place for you two!
- What do I want the weather to be like on my elopement day? Now you can never have complete control over the weather, but we can predict it. If you hate the cold, don’t get married in the winter. If you don’t want it to rain on your day, then probably don’t elope in the PNW. If you don’t want to sweat through your suit and dress, don’t elope in Utah in the summer.
- Lastly, would you prefer privacy on your elopement day or are you willing to run into people for that stunning location you have seen on Instagram? Most locations have a couple spots that are more private. But if you don’t want to deal with crowds, it will limit some of the popular spots you have seen on social media.
