A bride's guide to the best destinations in the USA & worldwide

The Best Places to elope

If you’re dreaming of saying “I do” surrounded by towering mountains, dramatic coastlines, or sweeping landscapes, this guide is for you. As an adventure elopement photographer, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing some of the most breathtaking backdrops for intimate, love-filled ceremonies. Below are my top picks for the best places to elope in the US and worldwide.

+ Best places to elope in the usa
+ moab, Utah
+ Yosemite National Park
+ The pacific northwest
+ kauai, Hawaii
+ Glacier national park
+ grand teton national park
+ Best places to elope worldwide
+ Iceland
+ New zealand
+ The dolomites
+ Patagonia
+ scotland
+ switzerland
+ Adventure elopement photography
+ adventure elopement packages

Places to elope in the USA

Moab, utah is a dream come true for couples seeking a dramatic, otherworldly backdrop for their elopement. With its towering red rock arches, deep canyon, and vast desert landscape, moab offers some of the most unique and breathtaking scenery in the united states.

Moab, Utah

Why elope in Moab?

+ Iconic landscapes: arches national park, canyonlands, and dead horse point provide jaw-dropping backdrops

+ Adventure-friendly: it's perfect for couples who love hiking, off-roading, or stargazing

+ Privacy & seclusion: even in popular parks you can find hidden spots that offer intimacy

+ year-round options: It's mild seasons make it ideal for spring, fall, and even winter elopements

Best Time of Year for a Moab Elopement

The best time to elope in moab is either spring (march to may) or fall (september to november) when daytime temperatures are mild and it’s not too crowded. Winter can be magical with snow-dusted red rocks, but temperatures drop below freezing at night. Avoid june-august due to extreme heat and heavy tourist crowds. For ideal conditions and stunning scenery, april, may, october, and November are the top picks for a moab elopement.

Locations to Elope in Moab:

Arches national park

Canyonlands National Park

Dead Horse Point State park

Unique Moab Elopement Ideas

+ Sunrise at mesa arch

+ stargazing ceremony

+ jeep tour adventure

+ bonfire & camping

For a more in depth guide on how to elope in Moab, check out this blog post!

Yosemite National Park, located in California’s sierra Nevada mountains, is one of the most iconic elopement destinations in the world. Known for its towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, ancient sequoia groves, and alpine meadows, yosemite offers a breathtaking backdrop for an intimate and adventurous wedding. Whether you dream of saying your vows beneath el capitan, beside a roaring waterfall, or on the edge of a cliff, yosemite delivers unparalleled natural beauty.

Yosemite National Park

Why elope in Yosemite National Park?

+ Iconic scenery: it's dramatic granite cliff sides, waterfalls, and lush valleys create a cinematic setting

+ Adventure opportunities: you can hike, rock climb, or horseback ride through some of the most famous landscapes in the us

+ privacy & seclusion: even in a popular park, hidden meadows and off-season elopements offer intimate moments

Best Time of Year for a Yosemite Elopement

during spring the waterfalls peak with snowmelt, wildflowers bloom, and crowds are manageable. summer brings warm weather, all trails accessible, but it can be crowded. make sure to book lodging early. fall will have fewer crowds, colorful leaves, and crisp air. ideal for intimate ceremonies. during winter, snow will blanket the valley and some roads will close.

Locations to Elope in Yosemite National Park:

Glacier point

taft point

el capitan meadow

Unique Yosemite Elopement Ideas

+ Sunrise at tunnel view

+ secluded waterfall ceremony

+ helicopter elopement

+ stargazing first dance

The pacific northwest also known as the PNW spans washington, oregon, and british columbia, offering some of the most diverse elopement landscapes in the world. From rugged coastlines and misty rainforests to volcanic peaks and alpine lakes, this region is perfect for couples who want a moody, wild, and adventurous wedding. Whether you dream of saying vows on the oregon coast, under ancient redwoods, or on the top of a mountain, the pnw delivers unforgettable backdrops.

The PACIFIC NORTHWEST

Why elope in the Pacific Northwest?

+ Dramatic & diverse scenery: Ocean cliffs, moss-draped forests, waterfalls, and volcanoes

+ privacy & seclusion: There are endless hidden gems away from the crowds

+ Adventure friendly: you can hike, kayak, or take a helicopter to remote locations

+ Year-round options: each season offers a different vibe and atmosphere

Best Time of Year for a PNW Elopement

The summer is best for sunshine, wildflower, and accessible mountain trails. Fall can be perfect for golden foliage, foggy mornings and stormy coastlines. The winter brings snowy peaks and empty beaches, but be careful as some trails close down. The spring is best for blooming wildflowers and rushing waterfalls, it can be rainier but it's still lush and green.

Locations to Elope in the Pacific Northwest:

Olympic national park

Mount rainier national park

oregon coast

Unique PNW Elopement Ideas

+ treehouse ceremony

+ helicopter to a glacier

+ stormy beach elopement

+ fire lookout wedding

Check out my blog post on: 10 Epic Places to Elope in the PNW!

Kauai, know as “the garden “isle,” is hawaii’s oldest and lushest island, offering pristine beaches, towering sea cliffs, emerald valleys, and cascading waterfalls. Unlike the busy island of oahu or maui, kauai maintains a wild, untouched beauty, making it perfect for couples seeking both romance and adventure. From the dramatic na pali coast to the serene hanalei bay, kauai provides breathtaking backdrops for an unforgettable elopement.

Kauai, Hawaii

Why elope in Kauai?

Kauai is the perfect elopement location for you if you value epic views with privacy & seclusion. Kauai boasts some of the prettiest waterfalls, rainforests, and secluded beaches. If you’re looking for adventure activities, take a helicopter tour, go on a hike, or charter a catamaran to explore the islands beauty.

Best Time of Year for a Kauai Elopement

With it’s mild temperature you can usually get away with eloping in kauai any time of year. If you’re looking for lower crowds, pleasant temperatures, and lower rainfall, consider eloping april-may or september-october. If you’re looking for sunny beach days, consider eloping june to august. If you’re into the moody vibe and don’t mind a little rain on your wedding day, elope in november-march.

Locations to Elope in Kauai, Hawaii

Na Pali Coast

Waimea Canyon

Hanalei Bay bay & north shore

Unique Kauai Elopement Ideas

+ helicopter elopement

+ charter a boar

+ waterfall ceremony

+ luau celebration

Glacier national park is a rugged wilderness spanning over 1 million acres along Montana’s rocky mountains. Known for its pristine alpine lakes, glacier-carved peaks, and wildlife-rich valleys, it offers some of the most dramatic and untouched landscapes in the U.S. The iconic going-to-the-sun road winds through heart-stopping vistas, while hidden trails lead to secluded meadows and turquoise glacial waters.

Glacier National Park

Why elope in Glacier National Park?

Glacier is a dream for couples who crave adventure, solitude, and jaw-dropping scenery. Here you can:

+ Say vows beside mirror-like lakes with towering peaks reflected in the water
+ hike to remote alpine overlooks where you'll feel like the only people on earth
+ spot wildlife like bighorn sheep, mountain goats and grizzlies
+ experience the park's legendary "golden hour" when the mountains glow in sunset light
+ choose between easy-access viewpoints or challenging back country adventures

Best Time of Year for a Glacier Elopement

July-september the going-to-the-sun road fully opens, the wildflowers will start to bloom in july and you'll get warm days. During june or october you'll find fewer crowds, but some roads/trails may be closed due to snow. October brings fall colors and possible early snowfall. And I wouldn't recommend winter as everything is closed.

Locations to Elope in Glacier National Park:

Logan Pass

Big Bend

St Mary

Unique Glacier National Park Elopement Ideas

+ paddle board vows

+ backcountry camping elopement

+ wildlife lookout

+ sunset views

The grand tetons form one of north america’s most spectacular mountain ranges. Located just south of yellowstone in wyoming, this 41-mile-long granite spine features twelve peaks over 12,000 feet, with the grand teton itself towering at 13,775 feet. With its pristine alpine lakes, the snake river, jaw dropping mountain views and abundant wildlife, the grand tetons provide an epic backdrop to get married.

Grand Teton National Park

Why elope in Grand Teton National Park?

+ Iconic mountain vistas: a variety of scenery to choose from rivers, lakes, mountains, or historic barns

+ Wildlife encounter: spot moose at oxbow bend or bears in willow flats

+ accessibility: many stunning ceremony sites require little to no hiking

+ proximity to jackson hole: upscale amenities just minutes from the wilderness

Best Time of Year for a Teton Elopement

For ideal conditions, plan your grand teton elopement between june and september when wildflowers bloom, trails are snow-free, and temperatures are mild. June offers rushing waterfalls from snowmelt, while july and august provide warm days perfect for alpine lake ceremonies- though these are the busiest months. September brings golden aspens and cooler weather with fewer crowds than peak summer. May and October offer solitude and dramatic skies, though some trails may have snow. Winter elopements (november-april) are magical for adventurous couples, with frozen lakes and snow-dusted peaks accessible by skis or snowshoes.

Locations to Elope in Grand Teton National Park:

Schwabacher landing

mormon row

delta lake

Unique Grand Teton Elopement Ideas

+ Sunrise canoe ceremony

+ heli-elopement

+ western hoedown

+ skiing

Places to elope worldwide

Iceland is a geological wonderland where glaciers, volcanoes, black sand beaches, and geothermal hot springs create an otherworldly backdrop for your elopement. Known as the “land of fire and ice” this nordic island offers: dramatic waterfalls, glaciers & ice caves, remote beaches, and northern lights. With its raw, untouched landscapes and minimal light pollution, iceland feels like another planet- perfect for couples seeking adventure and solitude.

Iceland

Why elope in Iceland?

+ Unreal scenery: every turn reveals a new wonder, from cava fields to glacial lagoons

+ privacy & solitude: with a small population and vast wilderness, you can find secluded spots easily

+ adventure: hike behind waterfalls, explore ice caves, or soak in geothermal hot springs

+ unique experiences: midnight sun in summer and northern lights in the winter

Best Time of Year for a Iceland Elopement

For the most flexibility, June through august offers mild weather, endless daylight and accessible highland roads. April, may, september, and october provide dramatic skies, possible northern lights in the fall and fewer crowds, though some roads may be closed. Winter offers magical snowscapes, but limited daylight. FOr ideal conditions, choose late may or early september and avoid december holidays when services are limited.

Locations to Elope in Iceland

Kirkjufell Mountain

reynisfjara black sand beach

landmannalaugar highlands

Unique Iceland Elopement Ideas

+ ice cave ceremony

+ remote jeep elopement

+ hot spring celebration

+ northern lights first dance

New zealand’s dramatic landscapes span from the snow-capped southern alps to fiordland rainforests and pristine beaches. This island nation offers cinematic lord of the rings scenery, including mirror lakes like wanaka, glaciers like franz josef, and geothermal wonders in rotorua. With its low population density and diverse ecosystems, new zealand provides both epic backdrops and intimate seclusion for your elopement.

New Zealand

Why elope in New Zealand?

New Zealand combines unparalleled natural diversity with adventure opportunities. Exchange vows on a secluded beach at sunrise, then celebrate with a helicopter ride to a glacier. The country's varied landscapes mean you can choose between mountain peaks, ancient forests, or volcanic plateaus - all within relatively close proximity. With no residency requirement for symbolic ceremonies and year-round appeal, it's a stress-free destination for adventurous couples.

Best Time of Year for a New Zealand Elopement

The ideal time depends on your vision and vibe. december-february offers warm weather and long daylight hours perfect for beach ceremonies and hiking. march-may brings stunning foliage and fewer crowds, while june-august transforms the mountains into a snow-covered wonderland ideal for cozy lodge weddings. september-november blooms with wildflower and newborn lambs in countryside meadows.

Locations to Elope in New Zealand

Mount cook national park

milford sound

wanaka

Unique New Zealand Elopement Ideas

+ helicopter to a private glacier

+ hobbit-inspired forest ceremony

+ lakeside hot pool celebration

+ farmstay experience

Spanning the southern reaches of Chile and Argentina, Patagonia is a land of staggering natural drama where the Andes Mountains plunge into icy fjords and vast steppes stretch to the horizon. This untamed wilderness encompasses the iconic granite towers of Torres del Paine, the thunderous Perito Moreno Glacier, and the windswept plains of Argentine Patagonia. With its raw, elemental beauty and sense of infinite space, Patagonia offers couples a profoundly moving setting to begin their marriage.

Patagonia

Why elope in Patagonia?

Patagonia speaks to adventurous souls seeking a ceremony immersed in nature's grandeur. The region's scale and solitude create an unmatched atmosphere of intimacy and awe. From the rose-gold glow of dawn on Fitz Roy's spires to the electric blue crevasses of glaciers calving into milky lakes, every moment here feels epic. The challenging terrain ensures your elopement will be an authentic shared adventure, while the lack of crowds guarantees privacy amid landscapes that redefine breathtaking.

Best Time of Year for a Patagonia Elopement

The ideal patagonia elopement window is from november to early march, when temperatures are mildest and trails most accessible. december and january offer long daylight hours but more visitors, while february and march provide autumn colors with fewer crowds. avoid may-september as most areas and inaccessible.

Locations to Elope in Patagonia

Torres del paine

el chalten

perito moreno glacier

Unique Patagonia Elopement Ideas

+ guacho-style celebration

+ glacier trek adventure

+ fjord boat elopement

+ backpacking experience

The italian dolomites rise dramatically from the ground like a fairytale. These pale limestone mountains form one of europe’s most breathtaking backdrops for an elopement, where jagged peaks like the tre cime di lavaredo tower over emerald valleys dotted with wildflowers. The region uniquely blends italian passion with austrian charm, offering everything from steep mountainsides to michelin star dining. What sets the dolomites apart is their accessibility- an extensive network of cable cars and mountain huts mean you can exchange vows at 2,500 meters without needing to be an expert mountaineer.

the dolomites

Why elope in the Dolomites?

The Dolomites offer a perfect marriage of raw natural beauty and refined European elegance. Nowhere else can you hike through wildflower-strewn meadows in the morning, enjoy a gourmet lunch at a rifugio with panoramic views, then descend to a luxury spa hotel by evening. The mountains' unique geology creates a photographer's paradise, especially during the magical "enrosadira" when the peaks glow pink at sunset. Unlike more remote ranges, the Dolomites provide both wilderness and comfort - you can have an adventurous elopement without sacrificing fine wine or plush accommodations.

Best Time of Year for a Dolomites Elopement

July through September guarantees wildflower-covered meadows and reliably warm weather, with August being peak season. Early October offers golden larch trees and fewer crowds, though some high-altitude routes may close. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland perfect for cozy ceremonies at rifugios, while June brings rushing waterfalls from snowmelt. For the perfect balance of good weather and solitude, aim for mid-September when the summer crowds have dispersed but the mountain huts remain open.

Locations to Elope in the Dolomites

Seceda ridgeline

lago di braies

alpe di siusi

Unique Dolomites Elopement Ideas

+ cable car rides

+ Canoeing

+ Skiing and snowboarding

+ Food and wine tastings

Scotland is a land of dramatic castles, misty glens, and rugged coastlines, offering a fairytale setting for adventurous couples. From the wild Highlands to the mystical Isle of Skye, Scotland’s landscapes are steeped in romance and history. Whether you dream of exchanging vows in an ancient stone circle, on a clifftop overlooking the sea, or in a medieval castle, Scotland delivers timeless beauty and untamed wilderness in equal measure.

Scotland

Why elope in Scotland?

Scotland is perfect for couples who want epic scenery, rich history, and intimate privacy. Unlike traditional wedding destinations, scotland offers: no residency required for legal weddings, endless secluded spots, castles, ruins, and standing stones, adventure opportunities, and moody, cinematic landscapes. If you’re craving an epic destination with intimacy and adventure, scotland is the perfect place for you.

Best Time of Year for a Scotland Elopement

for optimal weather and long daylight hours, may-september is ideal, though crowds peak in summer. april-may and september-october offer dramatic skies and autumn colors with fewer visitors. november-march brings snow-dusted castles and possible northern lights, but limited daylight. each season casts scotland's landscapes in a different magical light, so choose based on whether you prefer lush greenery, golden autumn hues, or winter's cozy charm.

Locations to Elope in Scotland

Isle of skye

glencoe

the cairngorms

Unique Scotland Elopement Ideas

+ castle elopement

+ standing stone ceremony

+ lochside elopement

+ clifftop ceremony

Switzerland is a storybook destination where snow-capped peaks, emerald valleys, and crystal-clear lakes create a breathtaking backdrop for your elopement. From the iconic Matterhorn to the glacier-fed lakes of the Jungfrau region, Switzerland offers diverse landscapes that blend luxury with wilderness. Whether you envision a mountaintop ceremony, a lakeside vow exchange, or a fairytale village wedding, Switzerland delivers pristine beauty and sophisticated charm in equal measure.

Switzerland

Why elope in Switzerland?

Switzerland offers a perfect blend of stunning alpine scenery, seamless travel, and luxurious comfort, making it ideal for couples seeking both adventure and elegance. With efficient transport connecting remote mountain locations, world-class resorts, and four distinct seasons that transform the landscape, you can exchange vows on a glacier, by a waterfall, or in a fairytale village—then unwind in a thermal spa or cozy chalet. The country’s easy legal process for symbolic ceremonies and mix of thrilling activities (like paragliding or via ferrata) with refined hospitality ensures an unforgettable experience.

Best Time of Year for a Switzerland Elopement

June-september bring wildflower meadows and long daylight hours, while december-march offers snow-blanketed peaks and ski-in ceremonies. for fewer crowds and fall leaves choose october-november or opt for april and may for surging waterfalls and blooming valleys.

Locations to Elope in Switzerland

Zermatt

lauterbrunnen valley

engadin valley

Unique Switzerland Elopement Ideas

+ glacier ceremony

+ cogwheel trail elopement

+ paragliding

+ via ferrata elopement

As an adventure elopement photographer, I specialize in capturing raw, authentic moments in the world’s most breathtaking landscapes. My approach blends documentary storytelling with epic, cinematic imagery, ensuring your elopement photos reflect the true emotion and grandeur of your day. Whether you're hiking to a remote alpine lake, exchanging vows on a glacier, or celebrating under the Northern Lights, I’ll be there to document every step—guiding you to the best light and hidden locations while giving you space to fully experience the moment.

Adventure elopement photography

+ Full-day adventure session (8+ hours): for couples who want to explore multiple locations, hike at sunrise, or incorporate unique activities like helicopter tours or horseback riding

+ intimate half-day elopements (4-6 hours): Perfect for shorter adventures with time for a picnic, lakeside vows, or a cozy cabin celebration

+ multi-day expeditions: for backcountry elopements, overnight hut stays, or destination elopements across multiple locations like the swiss apls & italian dolomites

My packages are designed for couples who want more than just photos, they want an unforgettable experience

Adventure elopement packages

Options include:

Location scouting & permit assistance

expert guidance on timing, weather, and gear

high-resolution digital gallery with editing in my signature moody, vibrant style

and more!

Every package includes:

Your Adventure Elopement Awaits!

From the jagged peaks of Patagonia to the misty glens of Scotland, the world is full of breathtaking places to begin your love story. An adventure elopement isn't just about stunning photos (though you'll get those too) - it's about creating a day that truly reflects who you are as a couple. Whether that means hiking to a mountain summit at dawn, sharing vows in an ancient castle, or dancing under the northern lights, these moments become the foundation of your marriage - raw, real, and completely yours.

Free Resources

Galleries

pricing

ABOUT

HOME

inquire