How to elope in Grand Teton NP

Grand Teton National Park, situated on the border of Wyoming and Idaho, is renowned for its majestic peaks and stunning landscapes. It’s no wonder that over 3 million people flock to the park each year to take in its beauty. I’m one of the lucky few who spent every summer of my childhood only 2 hours away from the park, giving me ample opportunity to explore it in depth. From the diverse hiking trails to the rich wildlife and ecosystems, Grand Teton National Park is truly a one-of-a-kind destination. And I have a few hidden gems to share with you – if you’re up for an adventure! This guide will tell you all the must knows for having a Grand Teton elopement.

THE BEST TIME OF YEAR

SUMMER (june-august)

If having pleasant weather is important to you, then Grand Teton National Park is a great place to visit during the summer. However, due to its popularity, summertime also brings a lot of people, traffic (especially in Jackson Hole), and higher prices. If you want to enjoy your elopement without the stress of crowds and parking issues, I suggest considering a later time of year when it’s less busy.

FALL (september-october)

Grand Teton National Park is an ideal location for eloping in the fall! September is the perfect time to visit, as you can avoid the crowds and expenses of peak season while still enjoying the breathtaking beauty of the park. Plus, there’s the possibility of catching a glimpse of the stunning autumn foliage and wildlife! Just be sure to dress warmly, as it can get chilly this time of year.

WINTER (november-april)

If you are a fan of snow, Grand Teton National Park is the perfect destination for you during the winter months. While it is limited in terms of activities and the number of places you can visit due to the snow, it is incredibly serene and tranquil. Wintertime does come with an increase in prices and more people in the Jackson Hole area, as everyone wants to experience the great ski resorts in the area.

SPRING (may)

Grand Teton National Park is a wonderful place to explore in the springtime! Even though the weather can be unpredictable, it’s a great time to visit as the crowds tend to be smaller and it’s often possible to find some trails that have been cleared of snow. That said, many of the trails will still have snow on them until later in May, so you’ll want to be prepared for that. The good news is that by late May, most of the park’s attractions will have opened up, so you can still have a great experience if you’re willing to take a chance on the weather!

BEST PLACES IN GRAND TETON, NP

If you are planning a Grand Teton elopement, and you have more than 12 people you MUST stick to the six designated ceremony sites that are listed below. However, if your group is smaller than 12 people, you are free to elope in most areas of the park, with a few exceptions. Make sure to avoid any off-limits areas and you can take beautiful portraits anywhere in the park. 

1. Schwabacher’s Landing 
2. Mormon Row
3. Mountain View Turnout
4. Glacier View Turnout
5. Snake River Overlook
6. Colter Bay Swim Beach

Here are my favorite spots!

Schwabacher’s Landing is a stunning spot for eloping in Grand Teton National Park. Considering its lush meadows, dense stands of trees, and a peaceful walking trail, it’s no wonder that so many couples have chosen it for their special day. The views of the sunrise here are breathtakingly beautiful, with the reflection of the majestic mountain range shimmering in the river below. It’s an idyllic spot that offers a unique experience that couples won’t soon forget.

Colter Bay Swim Beach is the perfect spot to go for a peaceful day outdoors. You be rewarded with incredible views, plus it is significantly quieter than the more popular spots in the area. You won’t be disappointed if you decide to check this place out!

Table Mountain is one of the most underrated attractions in the Grand Teton National Park area! If you’re looking for an unforgettable view, the 5.5 mile hike (or ski lift!) to the top of Grand Targhee Resort is the way to go. After you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning, up-close perspective of the majestic Grand Teton. It is important plan your excursion for a weekday during the off-season to avoid crowds. This is an experience you won’t forget!

The Wedding Tree isn’t actually within the park, but hence the name, makes the perfect elopement venue for those who want privacy but a view of the beautiful Tetons. You won’t find many people here, and you can reserve the area for Grand Teton elopement here.

TRAVEL PLANS

If you want to immerse yourself in the beauty of the park, Jenny Lake Lodge offers cozy cabins! For a more luxurious stay, consider one of the many incredible Airbnbs in Jackson Hole. The town of Jackson Hole is a short drive away from the park and is the preferred destination for 90% of park-goers. No matter your choice, you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable Grand Teton Elopement! Check out my favorite places!

Holly Hause if a luxury, private villa located deep in the woods. It comes with hot tub and a ton of windows! This is perfect fo guests.

Abode at 7 Cabins 5 different cabins right outside Jackson with stunning views and forestry.

Town Square Luxury Apartment is right in town of jackson hole, near all the shops! 

FUN ACTIVITIES

• White water rafting
• Go skiing at Grand Targhee Resort
• Stay up late and go stargazing in the park
• Morning wildlife tour
• Day trip to Yellowstone
• Watch the elk at the national elk refuge
• Take a picture with the famous antler arch
• Grab a bite to eat at Big Hole BBQ
• Horseback Riding

LICENSE AND PERMITS

Planning to have a Grand Teton elopement? Don’t wait too long to apply for the special use permit! Permits are issued on a first-come, first-serve basis, so the earlier you apply, the more likely you’ll be able to reserve the perfect location for your special day. Here is the application. Additionally the application fee is $200 and must be sent to grte_visitor_services@nps.gov no less than 30 days prior to the event. For more information on the application process click here.

If you want to get a marriage license in Wyoming, you must apply in person. The most popular place to get a marriage license is in Jackson Hole, which is directly outside of the park. To get a marriage license, you first need to fill out the marriage license questionnaire. Once filled out, you need to make an appointment at the County Clerk’s Office by calling 307-733-4430. They do NOT accept walk-ins. Be sure to bring the questionnaire, your photo ID, and $30 cash or $31.50 on your card for the application fee. There is no waiting period in Wyoming, meaning you can pick up your marriage license and get married on the same day.

Lastly you will need an officiant and at least two witnesses in order to elope in Grand Teton National Park. If you’re looking for an intimate and unique elopement experience, you can have a family member or friend officiate your ceremony for free! The Universal Life Church offers an online ordination process that is completely free and takes less than 5 minutes. Alternatively, I also offer officiation services for free!

FULL DAY ELOPEMENT TIMELINE

• 6am hike to ceremony location + couples photos/videos
• 7am private ceremony
• 730am adventure around to hidden gems + photos/videos
• 9am pick up some food from Big Hole BBQ
• 2pm horseback riding!!
• 3:30pm head back to the Airbnb to freshen up and prepare for your sunset session
• 4:30pm sunset session with tetons in the background
• 530pm – we head out on the town for more couple photos/videos
• 7pm – stargazing photos/videos

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Despite all this good info, your still feeling lost? Altogether, planning an elopement can be so exciting, but it can also be a bit overwhelming! That’s why I’m here, to help. Let me craft the perfect Grand Teton elopement, so you can focus on the most important part. Celebrating your love! I’m here to be your guide every step of the way, so you can have an elopement that lets your love run wild! Reach out and let’s start planning your dream elopement!