How to Elope in Grand Teton National Park in 2026
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How To Get To Grand Teton National Park
The Best Time Of Year To Elope In Grand Teton National Park
Best Places to Elope in Grand Teton National Park
How To Get An Elopement Permit For Your Grand Teton National Park Elopement
How To Get A Wyoming Marriage License
Where To Stay For Your Grand Teton National Park Elopement
Grand Teton National Park Elopement Activity Ideas
There are few places on Earth quite like Grand Teton National Park! In a natural landscape as unique and epic as this, a Grand Teton elopement is a next-level experience that’s guaranteed to create lifelong memories.
This iconic mountain range in northwest Wyoming is one of the crown jewels of the United States National Park System, and it is not difficult to see why. The massive, jagged peaks reaching into the sky, the crystal clear lakes dotting the vast landscape, the lush forests of spruce and cottonwood trees, and the vast array of gorgeous and exotic wildlife all combine to ensure that every visit to the Grand Tetons is absolutely awe-inspiring and unforgettable.
With so many things to see and do in this vast national park, it can sometimes be a bit daunting for couples planning a Grand Teton elopement to figure out where to begin! Fortunately, this comprehensive Grand Teton elopement guide has got you covered, with all the ins and outs and essential Grand Teton National Park elopement tips you’ll need to keep in mind to plan the perfect elopement in Grand Teton National Park. Here’s everything you need to know about how to elope in Grand Teton National Park!
How To Get To Grand Teton National Park
By Plane:
The easiest way to get to Grand Teton National Park is to fly into the Jackson Hole Airport (JAC). The airport is actually located within the national park, so you won’t have to drive very far after you land either! However, this airport is very small and since it is so convenient, prices are often higher to fly in here. You can also fly into the Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA) which is about a 2 hour drive from the park and often has cheaper rates. You can also fly into Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) which will be the biggest airport with the most amount of flights and will have the cheapest fares of all the airports listed here but it is about a 4-5 hour drive to the park itself. Lastly, if you plan on spending time at both Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons, flying into Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) can be a good option! Just note that it is also about a 4 hour drive from the Tetons.
By Car:
No matter which airport you choose to fly into, the best way to get around Grand Teton National Park is by renting a car. Most of the time, a standard sedan is all you will need! However, there are a few spots in the park that are only accessible via high clearance vehicles so just be sure you have the appropriate car rented for the places you want to visit!
Pro Tip: Download offline Google Maps directions on your phone so that even when you lose service as you get closer to the park, you can still receive navigation. As beautiful as the scenery is, getting lost probably isn’t on your to-do list!
The Best Time Of Year To Elope In Grand Teton National Park
The time of year you choose to elope in Grand Teton National Park all depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for in your Grand Teton adventure elopement. The park changes with the seasons, and each time of year offers a different side of the Grand Tetons.
Here are a few highlights from each season to help give you a sense of what time of year is best for you:
Spring
It’s pretty hard to beat Grand Teton National Park in the spring. The weather is absolutely gorgeous and the towering mountain peaks and sprawling forests are complemented by a bloom of wildflowers. The temperature is perfect for all sorts of outdoor activities, from hiking to kayaking to picnicking. Note that visiting before mid May will likely mean the park is still covered in snow! If you’re wanting true spring, I recommend visiting late May - June.
The only real drawback is that spring is one of the most popular times of year to visit Grand Teton National Park, so you’re going to have to compete with relatively large crowds.
Summer
The weather in Grand Teton National Park remains incredible during the summer months!
It’s definitely a bit warmer than the spring, but as long as you plan to dress for hotter weather and bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, you’ll be able to take full advantage of all the adventures the park has to offer.
As in the spring, however, summer in Grand Teton National Park draws a lot of crowds, so you’ll definitely need to do some careful planning to beat the rush.
Autumn
During the fall, the weather is still mild enough to do plenty of outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife viewing, but you have the added bonus of fewer crowds.
You’ll be able to enjoy a more secluded experience while still getting the full impact of the Grand Tetons’ natural beauty.
Note that snow will start to hit about mid October, so more flexibility may be needed in your plans if you visit in late October as storms hit the mountain range. Visibility can be more impacted this time of year as well.
Winter
Naturally, when the winter months roll around, the temperature in Grand Teton National Park starts to dip dramatically, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have an awesome adventure elopement!
During the winter, the Grand Tetons are covered with a pristine blanket of pure, white snow and the park becomes a tranquil winter wonderland. If you plan ahead and dress warmly, you’ll be able to enjoy the gorgeous snowy surroundings and engage in plenty of thrilling activities like skiing and snow-shoeing.
You’ll also have a front-row seat to some amazing wildlife without having to worry about the big crowds you might encounter during the spring or summer.
Best Places to Elope in Grand Teton National Park
One of the best things about an adventure elopement in the Grand Tetons is that there are so many different types of elopement spots to choose from, with a stunning diversity of environments and natural landmarks to take in.
With so many awesome places to explore, it can sometimes feel daunting picking just one location for your Grand Teton adventure elopement, but here are just a few of my favorites:
Schwabacher Landing
This scenic channel of the Snake River offers stunning views of the mountains along with some truly amazing wildlife.
Schwabacher Landing is particularly famous for its beaver dams, and at dawn and dusk, you can see the little guys working busily on their various construction projects.
It offers the absolute best of the Grand Tetons’ natural beauty, and the majestic mountains and awe-inspiring forests of spruce and cottonwood trees make a stunning backdrop for wedding photos.
Mormon Row
The rustic atmosphere and picturesque location make Mormon Row one of the best places to elope in Grand Teton. Historic barns built by early members of the Mormon Church offer a glimpse of the American past alongside some of the most stunning natural landscapes Grand Teton has to offer.
As of 2026, only small dispersed permits for up to 12 participants may be issued before May 15th. After May 15th, the park will not issue permits for this location due to construction.
Mountain View Turnout
Mountain View Turnout offers a stunning, panoramic view of some of the most epic peaks in the entire Grand Teton mountain range. Combine the one-of-a-kind view with access to some unforgettable hiking trails filled with amazing wildlife and you’ve got yourself one of the best possible locations for a Grand Teton adventure elopement.
Glacier View Turnout
If you’ve never seen a real glacier up close, you are truly missing out! Fortunately, the Grand Tetons’ Glacier View Turnout offers an opportunity to get up close and personal with this majestic sight.
From this spot in the valley, you’re afforded a completely unobstructed view of the glacier, which provides a magical, romantic atmosphere to your wedding vows and lends a truly unique and epic backdrop to your Grand Teton elopement photography.
Colter Bay
Colter Bay is located on the shore of Jackson Lake in the northern part of Grand Teton National Park, and it’s easily one of the most exciting and gorgeous elopement spots in the entire Grand Tetons mountain range.
In addition to an unparalleled view of the mountains and surrounding forests, Colter Bay also offers access to unforgettable hiking trails, and even offers opportunities to go boating on Jackson Lake! Colter Bay is also considered one of the best spots in the Grand Tetons for viewing wildlife, and you can expect to see a wide variety of birds and maybe even a bear or two during your visit.
A Note On Guest Lists
When you’re planning your Grand Teton adventure elopement, it’s important to note that different elopement locations in Grand Teton National Park have different limits for the number of guests permitted during the elopement ceremony. Many spots do not allow more than 13 people (your group size counts all your guests, you two, and any vendors that you may have for the ceremony).
However, each of the six locations mentioned above allows more than a group size of 12 at a time, so whether you’re planning a close-knit, intimate or something slightly larger, you’ll be covered! If you have less than 12 people within your group, you’re not limited to these spots and can get married almost anywhere in the park! Note that very popular spots like Jenny Lake are never approved for ceremonies.
To read more about where you can elope in Grand Teton National Park, visit their webpage about wedding ceremonies.
How To Get An Elopement Permit For Your Grand Teton National Park Elopement
A “special use permit” is required for all wedding ceremonies held within Grand Teton National Park. Failure to get the permit will result in a ranger stopping the ceremony and even banning you from the park (yes this really happens), so it is extremely important to get the permit for your elopement in the Grand Tetons.
Grand Teton National Park issues two different types of Special Use Permits — a Large Site-Specific Ceremony Permit and a Small Dispersed Ceremony Permit. Large Site-Specific Ceremony Permits are for groups larger than 12 (this counts you, your guests, and any vendors you may have like a photographer, videographer, or officiant). There is a list of spots approved for these sites and generally hold up to 25 people total. The one exception is Colter Bay Swim Beach, which holds up to 40. The spots approved for Large Site-Specific Permits are Colter Bay Swim Beach, Schwabacher Landing, Glacier View Turnout, Snake River Overlook, and Mountain View Turnout. If you have a group size of 12 or less, you will fall under the Small Dispersed Ceremony Permit and you are able to have your ceremony at spots outside of this pre-approved list! Note that some really popular spots like Jenny Lake, String Lake, Hidden Falls, and Inspiration Point are still prohibited spots as well as near chapels, park cemeteries, or areas with the potential for resource damage.
The process of getting a special use permit is extremely easy. All you need to do is fill out the application found on the park’s website and email it to grte_spu_permits@nps.gov at least 30 days before your wedding date. At the time of application, you will also need to pay a $200 application fee at Pay.gov and send the payment confirmation number to the permit officer. Once your permit has been received, you will be contacted within 2-10 business days and to receive your permit draft will take about 30 days. When you receive your draft, just review and sign then send back to the park. They will then give you a finalized permit to carry on you the day of.
Note that permit applications for each year normally open the November before (i.e. for 2026, permit applications will likely open in November 2025). Permit spots fill up extremely fast for Large Site-Specific Ceremony Permits & I would recommend applying the day permits open for these spots if you are a larger group.
If you need more information, check out the official park’s website permit page.
If all this is too much, there are locations within the National Forest nearby that have simpler permit rules and more availability with views of the Tetons still!
Pro Tip: All of my photography packages include permit assistance! If any of this information is confusing, reach out!
How To Get A Wyoming Marriage License
To get a marriage license in Wyoming, you’ll need to visit a County Clerk’s office within the state with your wedding with your photo ID. It’ll cost you $30. Simply fill out the application, pick up the license, and you’re good to go! There is no waiting period, so you can pick up the marriage license day of if you really wanted. However, for an stress-free experience, I would suggest picking it up at least the day before. You do not have to pick it up in Teton County—you can apply in any county in the state, though Teton County will likely work best as that is where you’ll likely fly into! If you do not live in Wyoming, note that you must go in person to apply—there is no remote/online application. However, it’s usually quick and only takes about 30 minutes!
You will need an officiant and two witnesses in order to elope in Wyoming.
Just So You Know: I am an ordained officiant and can legally sign on your marriage certificate in most U.S. states. Certain states may require additional paperwork and/or processing fees but I’m happy to help! However, if you would like an actual celebrant to verbally walk you through a ceremony, I know some great people who can do that for you.
Where To Stay For Your Grand Teton National Park Elopement
Jackson
Teton Village
Victor, ID
Pro Tip: If you are planning to be having guests at any point of the day for either a ceremony, intimate dinner, or reception, be sure to get an event-friendly rental! Not all vacation rentals are event friendly and nothing would be worse than getting kicked out by your host mid elopement experience! For all my tips on finding an event-friendly rental, view my blog on how to plan your Airbnb elopement.
Grand Teton National Park Elopement Activity Ideas
Grand Teton National Park is so expansive that there’s basically no limit to the types of adventures you can discover here. There are endless places to discover and countless amazing natural landscapes to experience.
Some of the most popular activities for couples embarking on a Grand Teton adventure elopement include:
Hiking on the one-of-a-kind mountain trails.
Kayaking or boating on the crystal clear waters of the Snake River or Jackson Lake.
Viewing the park’s endless array of stunning wildlife.
Picnicking in the heart of some of the most gorgeous natural scenery you’ll ever encounter.
Swimming in Colter Bay
Horseback riding in the meadows
Play darts at the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar
Take a day trip to Yellowstone!
Rent out a private dining room for you + your guests at the Glorietta
Wander around downtown Jackson
Soak in an all natural hot spring
Stay out after the sun sets and stargaze!
Grand Teton National Park Elopement Timeline Examples
Not sure exactly how much time you need for your dream Grand Teton National Park elopement? Here are a few timeline examples to help you get a feel for what might be the best fit!
8 Hour Elopement
12:00pm Sally Arrives at Airbnb for Getting Ready Photos
1:45pm First Look at Bnb
2:00pm Drive to Glacier View Turnout for Ceremony
2:30pm Ceremony with Friends/Family
3:30pm Couples Portraits + Share Private First Dance At Schwabacher Landing
5:15pm Drive to Downtown Jackson
5:45 pm Private Dinner With Family / Cake Cutting / Toasts
8:00pm Photography Coverage Ends
12 Hour Elopement
8:00am Sally Arrives at Airbnb for Getting Ready Photos
9:45am First Look at Bnb
10:00am Head to Mountain View Turnout for Ceremony
11:00am Ceremony with Family/Friends
12:00pm Drive to Colter Bay
1:00pm Canoe on Lake at Colter Bay
2:30pm Drive to Nearby Ranch
3:30pm Private Horseback Riding
5:30pm Drive to Downtown Jackson
6:00pm Private Dinner at Glorietta
7:30pm Grab Drinks at Million Dollar Cowboy Bar + Play Darts!
8:00pm Photography Coverage Ends
Grand Teton National Park Elopement Packages
I’m much more than a photographer, I’m someone who is super passionate about supporting couples on their big day, from scouting hidden gems for the ideal location, stress-free planning, and of course capturing raw, authentic moments. As a West Coast photographer specializing in adventure elopements, you’ll be in safe hands. So, are you ready to say yes to Grand Teton National Park?! More information on my packages below:
Packages
4 hours, 8 hours, 12 hours, or 2 Day elopement photography
Photography on digital, film, and drone (where permitted)
A personalized elopement planning experience with unlimited assistance
Personalized elopement location recommendation list
Vendor, lodging, and activity recommendations
Custom-built-for-you elopement timeline
Assistance to help you with permits and licenses
90+ page elopement planning guide with my best tips & tricks
Optional complimentary officiant services
Online gallery with full resolution images and printing rights
5-7 day sneak peeks
Travel fees to anywhere in the United States are already included
Starting at $5,000
Video Add-Ons
For an extra special, immersive reminder of your special day, I now offer the following options for video add ons to your elopement packages:
Documentary style highlight reel
Super 8 film
Ceremony recording
Hey, I’m Sally! I’m a destination adventure elopement photographer based in Washington, but traveling worldwide!
CHECK OUT MY FREE ELOPEMENT PLANNING GUIDE & CHECKLIST!
This freebie gives you a step-by-step guide on exactly how to plan your dream adventure elopement.
