A Sunrise Elopement in the Tetons: Haley + Colby’s Two-Day Jackson Hole Adventure
Haley + Colby
There are some elopement days that just sink into your bones in the best way—the ones that feel effortless, intentional, and wildly “you.” That’s exactly how Haley and Colby’s Grand Teton elopement unfolded. Not only did they craft a day that was centered on their relationship, but they stretched it into two days to savor every moment in one of the most breathtaking mountain ranges in the country.
If you’re recently engaged and already dreaming up your own Teton elopement for next year, Haley and Colby’s story is the perfect example of how to slow down, be present, and make your wedding day feel like the two of you.
Let’s dive into their two-day celebration, and I’ll share my best tips throughout to help you imagine what your own Teton elopement could look like.
Day One: A Cinematic Ranch Session
Before their actual ceremony day, we met up for a relaxed afternoon at a nearby ranch. Late May in Jackson Hole is ridiculously beautiful—fresh air, wide open space, and that perfect in-between season where spring is just waking up and the Tetons are fresh from the deep snow.
The ranch had this incredible vintage pickup truck parked out front, the kind that feels like pure Americana in the best way. Haley and Colby hopped in and let the day unfold naturally. No timeline. No pressure. Just the two of them laughing, climbing into the truck bed, and letting the soft mountain breeze do its thing.
Once the sun set, we ventured into downtown Jackson to get some fun night time shots in front of the iconic Million Dollar Cowboy Bar. It gave the most fun upbeat western vibes to cap off the end of night one.
This first day was all about storytelling. This is something I love encouraging my couples to do—choose locations and moments that reflect who you are outside of your wedding attire. For these two, that meant a ranch setting, earth tones, and a whole lot of playful, cinematic energy.
Day Two: Sunrise at Glacier View Turnout
For their actual elopement day, Haley and Colby chose to say their vows at sunrise at Glacier View Turnout, and honestly, it was magic.
Sunrise in the Tetons hits differently. There’s this gentle stillness to the valley that you really can’t find later in the day. The light is soft. The wildlife is active. And the crowds? Almost nonexistent. If you want privacy or a moment that feels like the world is just yours, sunrise is the way to go.
We arrived to a moody, overcast sky—which honestly made everything feel even more intimate. The mountains were still visible behind the soft clouds, and because it was mid-May, the peaks were perfectly snow-capped. This time of year is stunning because the range looks the most dramatic with all that snow clinging to the crests. They feel huge, commanding, and unbelievably majestic.
Haley and Colby read their vows with the Tetons rising behind them, the air crisp and quiet around us. It was simple. It was intentional. It was everything.
After their ceremony, we took some portraits around the turnout, soaking in all the moody tones and soft light the morning offered. There’s a raw beauty to overcast mornings in the mountains—they photograph so well and highlight the landscape in a completely unique way.
A Post-Ceremony Hot Spring Celebration
Since the morning was chilly, we wrapped their elopement by driving out to a natural hot spring just twenty minutes outside of Jackson. If you’ve never been in a steaming, quiet hot spring with mountain air swirling around you… it’s something everyone should experience at least once.
It was the perfect way for Haley and Colby to unwind after their ceremony—peaceful water, relaxed conversation, and that warm glow that hits right after you say “I do.”
Choosing an activity for after your ceremony is one of the best ways to make your elopement feel like a full experience rather than a quick moment. Whether it’s a picnic, a first dance on a ridge, a float down the Snake River, or a dip in a hot spring, these tiny decisions add so much heart to your day.
Tips for Eloping in Grand Teton National Park
If you’re planning your own elopement in the Tetons, here are a few must-knows inspired by Haley and Colby’s day.
1. Choose Sunrise for the Best Light and Privacy
Crowds in the Tetons build fast, especially between June and September. A sunrise ceremony gives you quiet, beautiful light and way more privacy. The mountains get the softest glow in the early morning, and weather tends to be calmer at this time of day.
2. Consider a Two-Day Experience
Splitting your elopement into two days allows you to slow down and experience the park in multiple ways. Day one can be casual photos, hiking, or exploring town. Day two can be your ceremony and big moments. You’ll get a richer story and way less pressure.
3. May Is Stunning for Snow-Capped Peaks
If you want that classic jagged skyline with bright white snow, late May is a dream. The mornings are chilly, but the views are unbeatable. Just plan for layers and be open to moodier conditions. Just keep in mind that earlier in the month, there will still be quite a bit of snow on the ground and limited access! Aim for late May for the perfect mix of less crowds, snow capped peaks, all access roads open, and green meadows.
4. Pick a Ceremony Turnout with Clear Mountain Views
Glacier View Turnout, Schwabacher Landing, Mountain View Turnout, and Mormon Row are the most iconic ceremony spots inside the park. Glacier View, where Haley and Colby eloped, has an unobstructed, wide-angle view of the entire range—perfect for simple, powerful ceremonies.
5. Add an Activity to Make the Day Feel Full
A hot spring soak, a paddle on String Lake, horseback riding, a champagne picnic, or even a scenic drive to Jenny Lake—activities help you stay grounded, present, and connected throughout the day.
Haley and Colby’s elopement reminded me why Grand Teton National Park is one of the most special places to get married in the U.S. It has a way of making you feel small in the best possible sense—surrounded by rugged peaks, quiet valleys, and a sense of peace you can’t quite describe.
If you’re dreaming up a Teton elopement of your own, imagine what would make the day feel honest and meaningful to you. Whether that means a two-day adventure, a post-ceremony hike, a private sunrise vow reading, or a relaxed morning at a ranch, the options are truly endless.
Your elopement deserves to feel like you. And in the Tetons, that feeling comes naturally.
Vendors
Photography | Sally G Photography
Florals | JH Flower Boutique
Dress | Dresses For Happiness
Suit | Indochino
READY TO START PLANNING YOUR ELOPEMENT? REACH OUT NOW!
Hey, I’m Sally! I’m a destination adventure elopement photographer based in Washington, but traveling worldwide!
