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. Check out the top 5 places to elope in Utah!
2. Redwoods
The Redwoods are one coolest, most underrated spots in the US. There is a magical and sacred feeling that these forests hold. It’s something you can only experience for yourself. My Redwood Elopement Guide will help you with everything you need to plan an elopement in the Redwoods!
3. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
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. Permits open up in December and fill up quickly, so reach out to me to start planning now!
4. Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite is one of the most jaw-dropping landscapes I have ever laid eyes on, and it is such a fun park to elope in! The sunrises and sunsets are magical and every season brings something different in the park. Learn how to elope in Yosemite here!
5. 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!
6. 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.
7. Big Sur, California
Big Sur is such a laid-back and relaxed place to elope. The summers bring warm weather and sunsets, and fall and winter bring a moody, foggy coastline.
8. Glacier National Park, Montana
Glacier National Park 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 Glacier between June and September when the main road is open and weather is at its best. Learn more about National Park elopements here!
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. Check out my full guide on where and how to elope in Moab!
10. 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 that is surrounded by mountains. So if having your dogs with you on your elopement day is important to you… this is the place to do it!
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.
