Lace up your boots, it's time to plan your hiking wedding!
Let's get started!
Hiking on your wedding day is a nature lover's dream come true, but you probably have a lot of questions about how to plan! You need an easy-to-follow guide that tells you how to plan a hiking wedding!
What you’ll learn: How to plan a hiking wedding, a step-by-step guide to choosing the best hiking elopement locations and time of year, answers to frequently asked questions, how to include guests, hiring photographers, getting a special-use permit, planning ceremony and adventure activities, what to pack for a hiking wedding, and how to create your timeline.
Hiking on your wedding day is a nature lover's dream come true, but you probably have a lot of questions about how to plan! You need an easy-to-follow guide that tells you how to plan a hiking wedding!
What you’ll learn: How to plan a hiking wedding, a step-by-step guide to choosing the best hiking elopement locations and time of year, answers to frequently asked questions, how to include guests, hiring photographers, getting a special-use permit, planning ceremony and adventure activities, what to pack for a hiking wedding, and how to create your timeline.
What's in this guide:
Tap to jump!
Step 1. Location
Step 2. Vendors
Step 3. Permits
Step 4. Clothing & Gear
Step 5. Timeline
Hi, we're Sammie & Micah!
Your Hiking Elopement Photographers + Planners
We love hiking elopements so much that we had one ourselves! Sometimes nature is the best venue, and it felt perfect for us to have a hiking elopement because we fell in love exploring the outdoors together. There's something so special about climbing a trail with your partner, and getting married surrounded by the most beautiful nature!
We’ve been photographing hiking elopements around the world for years and we're passionate about creating a meaningful and adventurous wedding experience for you while we capture artistic photos that document your connection.
Honestly, we're so excited for your elopement and we haven't even met (YET!)
We’re also more than just your photographers: we’re your hiking wedding planners and biggest support system! We’ll guide you through all the planning to make it as stress-free as possible.
Helping couples plan their dream elopement, all while being present in the moment and capturing beautiful photos – that’s what we do.
Growing up exploring the Pacific Northwest, Olympic holds such a special place in our hearts! We've been to 25+ countries but there's just something so special about Olympic National Park!
We’ve been photographing elopements around the world for years and it all started when we eloped ourselves! We're passionate about creating a meaningful wedding experience for you while we capture artistic photos that document your connection.
We’re also more than just your photographers: we’re your elopement planners and biggest support system! We’ll guide you through all the planning to make it as stress-free as possible.
Helping couples plan their dream elopement, all while being present in the moment and capturing beautiful photos – that’s what we do.
Honestly, we're so excited for your elopement and we haven't even met each other (YET!)
Book a free planning consultation!
Book a free planning Call!
What's in this guide:
Click to jump!
Step 1. Location & Date
Step 2. Vendors
Step 3. Permits
Step 4. Clothing & Gear
Step 5. Timeline
hey, real quick:
What is a Hiking Wedding?
A hiking wedding is when you ditch traditional wedding stress and embrace the outdoors by getting married in nature!
You can do a short hike after your ceremony, or spend all day hiking through the wilderness, or do both across two days! With a small number of guests or none at all, it's perfect for nature-lovers who want a stress-free, meaningful experience that's true to who they are.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Weddings:
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can We Have Guests At Our Hiking Wedding?
Absolutely! Lots of the hiking weddings we photograph have guests! Here's how you can include them:
• Guests can hike with you on the trail! If your group is able you can do a moderate hike, or if there are people with accessibility concerns, you can find an easy trail with great views.
• Have a ceremony with guests at a no-hike location, then go off on a hike just the two of you! This is especially great with a two-day elopement with an accessible ceremony for guests on Day 1, then hiking adventure just you two on Day 2!
What’s the Difference Between a Hiking Wedding and Hiking Elopement?
Honestly, they’re pretty much the same thing! A hiking wedding might have more structure and more guests, but elopements can have guests too! No matter what you call it, the focus is still on a small guest count and enjoying the outdoors.
What If I’m a Beginner Level Hiker?
That's totally fine. You don't have to be a 'hardcore hiker' to have a hiking wedding! Whether you're a beginner, expert, or anywhere in-between: the outdoors are for everyone! A hiking wedding can be as simple as a 30-minute walk to a beautiful viewpoint or as big as a multi-day hike.
What Happens If It Rains On Our Hiking Wedding?
Have a backup location in another area, or an indoor location, but if it's safe: embrace the adventure and get married in the rain! We know the weather can be a concern, but hiking weddings are all about embracing the outdoors, so while we will absolutely do all we can to avoid the rain, if it does rain, it brings a unique and beautiful experience to your wedding day! However if conditions are unsafe, of course we will move to a backup location. (This is rare)
1. How To Choose Your Hiking Elopement Location
3 Things to Consider:
3 Things To Consider:
Scenery
Exploring beautiful nature is the main attraction of having a hiking wedding! On your wedding day, do you picture yourself hiking through the mountains, walking through a lush forest, or strolling along ocean cliffs?
Do a little soul-searching: What are your favorite places you've explored together? What landscape makes you both feel most alive? Where have you felt connected to each other and the world around you?
Location Ideas to Consider:
Snow-Capped Mountains
Red Rock Canyons
Towering Waterfalls
Alpine Lakes
Wildflower Meadows
Redwood Groves
Lush Green Forests
Rolling Green Hills
Rugged Coastlines
Alpine Lakes
Rugged Coastlines
Redwood Groves
Ancient Castle Ruins
Lush Green Forests
Jagged Mountains
Wildflower Meadows
Towering Waterfalls
Red Rock Canyons
Rolling Green Hills
Hike Difficulty
Make sure you choose a hike that fits your ability level, and you probably don’t want to push yourself too hard on your wedding day (unless that’s your vibe). The best way to determine the difficulty of a hike is by looking at the length and elevation gain. (Elevation gain makes a big difference in how strenuous a hike is.)
If you’re having guests join you on the hike, you also need to factor in their ability levels as well as any accessibility requirements. You can use a website like Alltrails to discover and compare different hikes!
Here’s a general guide for determining the difficulty of a hike:
Easy: 0-2 miles | 0-500ft elevation gain
Moderate: 3-6 miles | 500-1,500ft elevation gain
Challenging: 6+ miles | 1,500+ft elevation gain
Lighting
Landscapes look really different depending on the lighting, and there are lots of factors to consider. Is the view best with back, front, or side light? What's the weather? What time and direction is the sunset?
Instead of trying to do that research yourself, this is a great opportunity to ask experienced hiking elopement photographers for help. We've trained our eye with years of photographing hiking elopements, and we’ll make sure you have the best lighting for your location.
Of course the most important thing is that no matter what happens on the day: if you embrace the adventure, your elopement will be amazing!
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Let's plan your elopement!
Best Hiking Elopement Locations in the USA:
There are thousands of mountains and forests that would make amazing wedding trails, but these are the places that will really make your jaw drop!
1. Yosemite National Park
A world-famous valley surrounded by towering granite mountains, filled with sweeping meadows, cascading waterfalls, and endless adventure. Yosemite is home to some of the most iconic views in the U.S. Including one of the most beautiful sunset hikes in the country: Taft Point.
Whether you're dreaming of saying your vows beneath a waterfall or on the edge of a cliff at golden hour, this park has it all. Checkout our in-depth Yosemite Elopement Guide!
Best Time of Year to Hike:
March-June & Sept-October | Spring is peak waterfall season, and Fall is great because Glacier Point road is open but there's fewer people than summer.
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Best Scenery:
Dramatic mountain cliffs
Sweeping alpine meadows
Unique granite rock formations
Cascading waterfalls
Panoramic mountain viewpoints
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Best Wedding Hikes:
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2. The North Cascades, WA
One of our favorite places for a hiking elopement, these are some of the most beautiful and easy-to-access mountains in the entire country. The North Cascades in Washington are a total mountain-lovers dream come true!
Our favorite trails (most in Mt. Baker Snoqualmie National Forest) offer jaw-dropping vistas of jagged peaks, wildflowers, and turquoise lakes. (There's a hidden gem hike we love taking our couples!) If you're dreaming of epic mountain scenery: this underrated beauty is hard to beat.
Best Time of Year to Hike:
July-September | The only time Mount Baker Highway is open.
Best Scenery:
Jagged, snow-capped mountains
Turquoise apine lakes
Panoramic mountain vistas
Evergreen forests
Remote mountain passes
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Best Wedding Hikes:
Artist Point
Bagley Lakes
Fire Lookouts (The best hidden gems)
Chain Lakes
Maple Pass Trail
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3. Olympic National Park
Olympic has more diverse landscapes then any other national park, with beautiful rainforests, mountains, waterfalls, and rocky beaches all in one place. If you want to hike in a place where the mountains meet the ocean, and every turn feels like a completely new landscape: this is the spot.
Olympic is the perfect choice for couples who want variety in their adventure. Check out our full Olympic National Park Elopement Guide.
Best Time of Year to Hike:
March-October | Spring and Fall are great for fewer other people, and summer means you have full access to the beautiful Olympic mountains!
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Best Scenery:
Wide open mountain ranges
Moody coastline with huge seastacks
Lush green rainforests
Hidden waterfalls
Picturesque mountain lakes
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Best Wedding Hikes:
Hurricane Hill Ridge Trail
Hall of Mosses Trail
Marymere Falls
Rialto Beach Hole-in-the-Wall
Mount Storm King
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4. Redwood National Park
Home to the tallest trees in the world, this park full of ancient redwoods and lush ferns is perfect for strolling through the forest during your hiking elopement. There’s something magical about being surrounded by redwood trees that have stood for hundreds of years.
We highly recommend spending part of your wedding day exploring the nearby Oregon Coast for a mix of forest and ocean views. This spot is ideal for couples who want a peaceful, nature-filled adventure.
Best Time of Year to Hike:
March-June | The park is gorgeous year-round, but Spring gives you super lush greenery for an enchanted forest vibe.
Best Scenery:
Towering coastal redwood trees
Lush green ferns
Rugged coastline
Unique sea stacks
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Best Wedding Hikes:
Stout Memorial Grove Trail
Grove of Titans
Tall Trees Grove
Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail
Trillium Falls Trail
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Let's start planning!
5. Rocky Mountains, CO
Colorado is the state with the most 14ers (14,000+ ft peaks) and is overflowing with epic options for a hiking wedding. It feels like mountains in every direction!
Whether you’re wanting alpine lakes, golden aspen groves, or jaw-dropping ridge lines, the hardest part will be picking one of the hundreds of wedding trail options. There’s truly something for every kind of mountain lover here.
Best Time of Year to Hike:
June–October | When the snow melts in Summer and Fall, you can access the best mountain locations within the Rockies.
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Best Scenery:
Towering snow-capped peaks
High alpine lakes
Colorful wildflower meadows
Golden aspen groves in the fall
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Best Wedding Hikes:
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6. Glacier National Park
Glacier has some truly awe-inspiring mountain views, with craggy mountains towering over valleys and lakes. In the remote state of Montana, this wilderness makes the perfect backdrop for a hiking elopement.
If you’re dreaming of epic views, glacier-carved valleys, and maybe even spotting some mountain goats or bears from afar, Glacier National Park is definitely worth considering.
Best Time of Year to Hike:
July–September | When the most areas are accessible
Best Scenery:
Craggy mountain ranges
Alpine lakes within valleys
Wildflower-filled meadows
Iconic wildlife like mountain goats and bears
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Best Wedding Hikes:
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Overwhelmed by all the options?
We make it simple by providing a custom list of location recommendations after booking – just for you!
hop on a free planning call!
Overwhelmed by all the options?
We make it simple by providing a list of location recommendations
custom made just for you!
hop on a free planning call!
Best International Hiking Elopement Locations
It's hard to narrow down the best places to hike in the entire world, but these locations have the best balance of accessibility and breathtaking beauty:
Best International Hiking Elopement Locations
It's hard to narrow down the best places to hike in the entire world, but these locations have the best balance of accessibility and breathtaking beauty:
7. Dolomites, Italy
You’ve never seen mountains quite like this. These unique and jagged peaks are surrounded by peaceful alpine meadows and charming mountain villages, creating unforgettable scenery that feels like it’s something out of a fantasy book. This is definitely one of our favorite hiking elopement spots in the entire world.
The Dolomites are full of so many hiking wedding trails that offer insane views for an easy-moderate trek. If you love the mountains, you will LOVE it here.
Best Time of Year to Hike:
June–October | Some of the best locations are only accessible in Summer/Fall, and you'll get the best weather for your adventure!
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Best Scenery:
Jagged, storybook mountain peaks
Rolling alpine pastures
Crystal-clear lakes
Mountain huts and charming villages
Dramatic cliffside views
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Best Wedding Hikes:
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8. Scottish Highlands
Mystical and wild, the Scottish Highlands are home to windswept mountains, enchanting castles, roaming sheep, and an ancient beauty that will touch your very soul. If you're a fantasy lover or drawn to moody weather and dramatic landscapes, this is the perfect place for your elopement.
The trails here feel like something out of legend—think mist rolling over ancient mountains as you quietly share your vows.
Best Time of Year to Hike:
March-June & Sept-October | The highlands are truly stunning all year-round, but if you want to avoid snow, and have the most private experience, Spring and Fall are best.
Best Scenery:
Rugged, windswept mountains
Dramatic cliffs
Ancient castles
Rolling hills with roaming sheep
Moody coastal views
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Best Wedding Hikes:
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9. Switzerland
No list of wedding trails would be complete without the Swiss Alps! This is the world famous land of snow-capped peaks, emerald lakes, and green rolling hills. With its breath-taking nature and picturesque villages, a hiking elopement in Switzerland will feel like stepping into a storybook.
From mellow hikes to serious summits, there’s no shortage of beauty to explore here.
Best Time of Year to Hike:
June–September | Many of the best locations are only accessible in Summer/Fall, and the weather is amazing!
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Best Scenery:
Towering alpine peaks
Rolling green meadows full of wildflowers
Crystal-clear glacial lakes
Charming alpine villages
Mountain valleys with waterfalls
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Best Wedding Hikes:
Seealpsee Trail
Oeschinensee Loop
Zermatt: Five Lakes Trail
Grindelwald First to Bachalpsee
Hardergrat Trail Viewpoint
Saxer Lücke
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10. Patagonia, Argentina
A breathtaking place that feels completely untouched by the rest of the world. With its two-toned granite mountains that pierce the sky, sprawling glaciers, and windswept plains, Patagonia is extremely remote, the place for a truly adventurous hiking elopement.
Despite the remoteness, there are limited areas visitors can access so they can sometimes get a bit crowded, but don't worry, we've got a few tricks up our sleeve to help you avoid crowds without compromising on views. Let's plan your dream elopement!
Best Time of Year to Hike:
November-March | This is Summer in the southern hemisphere so the best mountain locations will be accessible.
Best Scenery:
Towering two-toned granite peaks
Glaciers and icefields
Turquoise alpine lakes
Windswept grasslands and forests
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Best Wedding Hikes:
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11. Northern Ireland
Wild, rugged, and utterly magical, Northern Ireland's ancient beauty shows up in dramatic coastlines and rolling green hills full of sheep. This amazing country has ocean castles, the famous Giant's Causeway and Dark Hedges, and one of the most breathtaking ocean cliff hikes in the world. (Oh and of course: Irish Pubs!)
If you want a fairy tale wedding in front of an ocean castle and fantasy-inspired beauty in your photos, Northern Ireland is the perfect place for you.
Best Time of Year to Hike:
April-October | Honestly, the moody weather here is beautiful year-round, Winter just gets a bit cold and wet!
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Best Scenery:
Dramatic coastal cliffs
Jaw-dropping castle ruins
An iconic tree tunnel
Wild, windswept coastlines
Unique basalt rock structures
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(We couldn't narrow it down to 10!)
Hiking Elopement Locations Map
The first 11 locations above are our favorites, but they're just start! There are thousands of locations you can have a hiking wedding with so many amazing wedding trails around the world.
(P.S) Does this sound like you? "We want to get married in nature, but there's so many options, we can't decide where to go!"
Don't worry: We're here to help!
We'll make your planning process stress-free with custom location recommendations, permit assistance, creating your timeline, and so much more.
Let's turn your dream wedding a reality!
and that's just the beginning...
Hiking Elopement Locations Map
The first 11 locations above are our favorites, but they're just the start! There are thousands of locations you can have a hiking wedding with so many amazing wedding trails around the world.
(P.S.) Does this sound like you? "We're in, we want to have a hiking elopement, but we can't decide where to go!"
Don't worry: We're here to help!
We'll make your planning stress-free with customized location recommendations, permit assistance, creating your timeline, and so much more.
Let's turn your dream wedding a reality!
Pro-Tip:
Don't limit your hiking elopement to just one day/location.
There's a reason why most of our couples choose to have two-day elopements! Consider spending two days exploring one area, or spread your celebration across multiple locations!
Let's start planning your elopement!
Pro-Tip:
Don't limit your hiking elopement to just one day/location.
There's a reason why most of our couples choose to have two-day elopements! Consider spending two days exploring one area, or spread your celebration across multiple locations!
Let's start planning!
When To Have a
Hiking Elopement
Time of Year
Especially important for hiking elopements, the time of year can impact the scenery, weather, and accessibility. We always recommend choosing your location before choosing your date because each location will have a different time of year that’s best to visit.
The best time of year for mountain locations is normally early Summer, forests are most green during Spring but Fall can give golden colors, and coastal locations can vary but normally Spring is best.
Time of Day
What time you go for your hike will impact the temperature, lighting, and other people around during your hiking elopement.
Sunset and sunrise are the best times of day by far, especially the hour or two before sunset and after sunrise. In many locations there will often be less people during these times, just keep in mind it will be colder and pack appropriately! (We’ve included our “Hiking Elopement Packing List” near the end.)
Leave No Trace
This beautiful earth has been given to us to care for, so it’s important that we follow the principles of Leave No Trace whenever we're exploring nature, including for a hiking wedding or elopement.
We want every beautiful location to be enjoyed for generations to come, and the local ecosystems to thrive. The good news is, it’s not about being perfect, it’s about being better – and that’s not hard to do!
Here’s how to Leave No Trace for your hiking wedding:
Remain only on designated trails or durable surfaces to protect the flora and fauna.
Leave every location the same as how we found it.
Respect local wildlife as well as the park rules.
Remove all trash (and avoid throwing confetti, rice, or birdseed).
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This beautiful earth has been given to us to care for, so it’s extremely important that we follow the principles of Leave No Trace whenever we go outside, including for a hiking wedding or elopement. In the past, many amazing locations in nature have had to be closed to the public, or placed under strict regulation because of people visiting in an irresponsible way.
We want every beautiful location to be enjoyed for generations to come, and the local ecosystems to thrive. The good news is, it’s not about being perfect, it’s about being better, and that’s not hard to do!
Here’s how to Leave No Trace for your hiking wedding:
Remain on designated trails or durable surfaces.
Leave every location the same as how we found it.
Respect local wildlife as well as the park rules.
Remove all trash (and avoid throwing confetti, rice, or birdseed).
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2. Hiking Elopement Vendors
Our biggest piece of advice?
Invest in What's Important to You.
Invest in What's Important to You.
Who To Hire:
Who To Hire:
Hiking elopements normally don’t require as many vendors as a traditional wedding, so the few vendors you do have are really important to your experience.
The most common vendors for an elopement are photographers, hair/makeup artists, and florists. Always choose vendors with hiking wedding experience when possible!
Officiant
Officiant
You can hire an officiant, but if you're having guests, we recommend having one of them do it! Or you can simply take care of the legal stuff before hand and have a meaningful, private ceremony on the trail!
Photographer
Photographer
Your photographer is your most important investment. These photos will be the only thing you have to remember your wedding adventure for the rest of your life, so prioritize finding someone who specializes in hiking elopements and understands how to capture every magical moment of your adventure.
Great Hair & Makeup Artists and Florists:
Great Hair & Makeup Artists and Florists:
- Wild Brides Backcountry
- A Vow to Artistry
- Black Fern Beauty Co
- Timeless Artistry Beauty
- Tangled Roots Floral
- Goldenrod Floral Design
Choosing Your Hiking Elopement Photographer
We think you deserve elopement photos that are more than just beautiful: they're authentically YOU.
Imagine looking at your photos 10 years from now and being transported back to every laugh on the trail, every tear during your vows, and every intimate moment in between. Remembering exactly how it felt to be so wildly, completely in love.
It's simple: We know that the best photos happen when you feel comfortable and you’re totally enjoying yourself.
The best part? We’re more than just your photographers: we’re your hiking elopement planners!
Here's What to Expect:
Here's What to Expect:
We'll guide you through all the planning to make it as stress-free as possible! That includes:
• Choosing your perfect location
• Building your custom timeline
• Helping you get permits
• Vendor recommendations
We'll be with you every step of the way and treat your wedding with the care and attention it deserves.
Ready to make your dream elopement a reality?
Inquire Here - Let's Get Started!
Let's plan your elopement!
"I can't imagine our day with
any other photographer!"
“Our experience with Sammie and Micah was special and incredible. We never could have planned our elopement adventure without them! The vibe they brought on our wedding day was perfect. We always felt loved and supported and there was no discomfort behind the camera. I would recommend them 1000x over for an adventure elopement."
- Caitlyn & John
"I can't imagine our
day with any other photographer!"
“Our experience with Sammie and Micah was special and incredible. We never could have planned our elopement adventure without them! The vibe they brought on our wedding day was perfect. We always felt loved and supported and there was no discomfort behind the camera. I would recommend them 1000x over for an adventure elopement.
- Caitlyn & John
3. Hiking Elopement Permits
Do you need a permit for a hiking Wedding?
Yes, for most locations, getting a permit for your hiking wedding is required. The average cost of a hiking wedding permit is only $100-$200. The permit is legally required in many wilderness areas, like National Parks.
There are a some locations where permits aren't normally required (like the Scottish Highlands), but most of the time if nature is going to be your venue, you’ll need to get the proper paperwork to get married there. This means getting a permit from the government agency that manages the land, like a national or state park.
The average cost of a hiking wedding permit is only $100-$200. The permit is legally required in many wilderness areas, and the money goes directly to supporting the maintenance of our beautiful parks so they can be enjoyed for generations.
If you’re getting married in a national park, go to the NPS website for that specific park to find the information on how to apply for a permit. Other places you might have your hiking elopement include state parks, national forests, and Bureau of Land Managment land.
Every government agency is different and the paperwork can be confusing, so it’s helpful to work with experienced hiking elopement photographers who have done it before and can help guide you through the process. (We've gotten permits all across the US and the world!)
Let's Start Planning Your Elopement!
3. Hiking Elopement Permits
Do you need a permit for a hiking Wedding?
There are a some locations where permits aren't normally required (like the Scottish Highlands), but most of the time if nature is going to be your venue, you’ll need to get the proper paperwork to get married there. This means getting a permit from the government agency that manages the land, like a national or state park.
What You Need to Know:
Where to Apply:
Pro Tip: Every agency has different requirements and confusing paperwork, so work with experienced hiking elopement photographers who can guide you through the process.
Yes, for most locations, getting a permit for your hiking wedding is required. The average cost of a hiking wedding permit is only $100-$200. The permit is legally required in many wilderness areas, like National Parks.
Average permit cost: $100-$300
Money supports nature preservation for future generations
Permits are legally required in most wilderness areas
National parks: Visit the specific park's NPS website
State parks, national forests, etc: The permit process varies, you often need to call them directly.
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Let's Start Planning Your Elopement!
Let's Plan Your Elopement!
4. Hiking Wedding Clothing and Gear
4. Hiking Wedding Clothing and Gear
Hiking Wedding Attire
Time to choose your attire! This part is so much fun, so here's how to do it:
Choose your location and time of year first. Lightweight fabric for warm weather, thick material or layers for cold weather.
You'll be wearing this all day and moving a lot. Think about comfort, weight, and mobility.
Your perfect wedding attire is the one that you connect with most! If you're happy, comfortable, and feel amazing, you're doing it right. Be true to who you are!
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Hiking Wedding Dress
Style & Cut: For a hiking wedding dress, we recommend one that doesn’t restrict the range of motion of your legs very much, i.e. you should be able to run, dance, and lift your knees! A-line cut is a great place to start. And if it’s your vibe, a long flowy train looks gorgeous when the wind catches it!
Fabric Choices: Look for fabrics that move easily: chiffon, crepe, and jersey are great options that won't weigh you down. Avoid super-heavy satins or structured fabrics that don't breathe well.
Practical Features to Consider:
The Bottom Line: Your hiking wedding dress should be the one that makes you feel like the most beautiful, confident version of yourself. Trust your instincts and go with the dress that feels like you!
Bustles or wrist loops for longer trains
Comfortable, supportive built-in bras
Long trains for epic photos
Sleeves or shawls for cold weather
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Hiking Wedding Footwear
Having proper hiking boots or shoes is essential for a hiking wedding! (Running shoes can also work for short hikes if needed)
Hiking boots will offer you more ankle support, durability, and overall foot protection, while hiking shoes are lighter and sometimes more breathable, some people may not like the style as much.
Style Options: Hiking footwear has come a long way! You can find stylish boots and shoes in neutral colors like tan, grey, or even white that will look amazing with your wedding attire. We highly recommend you checkout these brands:
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Can You Wear Heels for Part of Your Hiking Wedding? You absolutely can! Most couples stay in hiking boots the whole time, but plenty of brides wear heels part of the day then switch to hiking boots for the trail.
Pro Tip: Your feet are going to carry you through one of the most important days of your life, invest in quality footwear that keeps you comfortable and confident. This is not the place to cut corners!
Note: It's important that your footwear has been properly broken in before your elopement day!
Do You Hike in Wedding Attire or Change on Trail?
Most of our couples choose to stay in their wedding attire the whole time for photos and convenience. But some couples who are doing harder hikes choose to hike in non-wedding attire, and change while on the trail.
If you’re planning to change while on the trail: Make sure you secure or pack your attire in a way that won’t cause wrinkles. For your dress, place it in a lightweight garment bag and gently fold it. For a suit, try to choose a more wrinkle-resistant material/color, then fold it.
You can hide behind a boulder or some trees to change, but you may consider a pop-up changing tent if you’d feel more comfortable.
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Let's start planning!
Hiking Elopement Packing List:
Wedding Gear
• Wedding Attire (dress, suit, etc.)
• Wedding rings
• Vowbooks
• Bouquet
• Boutonniere
• Veil
• Jewelry & Accessories
• Marriage license + pen
• Champagne to pop
• Touch up makeup
• Changing tent (if needed)
• Activity-specific items
• Water (1 liter per 2-3 miles)
• Food and snacks
• Warm, waterproof jacket
• Hiking boots (broken in already)
• Navigation (map, compass, GPS)
• Sunscreen and SPF lip balm
• Headlamps
• First aid kit
• Merino wool socks (if it's cold)
For Remote Wilderness:
• Emergency shelter
• Satellite communicator
Hiking Elopement Packing List:
• Wedding Attire (dress, suit, etc.)
• Wedding rings
• Vowbooks
• Bouquet
• Boutonniere
• Veil
• Jewelry & Accessories
• Marriage license + pen
• Champagne to pop
• Touch up makeup
• Changing tent (if needed)
• Activity-specific items
Hiking Gear
• Water (1 liter per 2-3 miles)
• Food and snacks
• Warm, waterproof jacket
• Hiking boots (broken in already)
• Navigation (map, compass, GPS)
• Sunscreen and SPF lip balm
• Headlamps
• First aid kit
• Merino wool socks (if it's cold)
For Remote Wilderness:
• Emergency shelter
• Satellite communicator
Wedding Gear
5. Create Your Hiking Wedding Timeline
We create custom timelines for our couples to make sure they have the most stress-free and adventurous experience possible, so you’re in good hands.
Remember: this isn't just another hike, it's your wedding day! Give yourself time to savor every mountain view and forest kiss. Plan time for photos, vows, picnics, and any other activities you want to include!
Always overestimate how long everything will take. Your hiking elopement isn't about rushing from A to B! It's about enjoying the journey, and pledging your lives to each other.
Hiking Elopement Activity Ideas:
• Pop champagne
• Have a picnic
• Rock climbing
• Share a first dance
• Watch the sunset
• Spot wildlife with binoculars
• Go off-roading
• Take a helicopter tour
• Read letters from loves ones
• Stargaze under the Milky Way
• Make a fire & roast s’mores
• Exchange gifts
• Kayak, canoe, or paddleboard
• Jump in a lake or river
• Drink hot cocoa on the summit
• Play music
• Have a picnic
• Read letters from loves ones
• Stargaze under the Milky Way
• Kayak, canoe, or paddleboard
• Go off-roading
• Pop champagne
• Go horseback riding
• Spot wildlife with binoculars
• Rock climbing
• Share a first dance
• Watch the sunset
• Take a helicopter tour
• Make a fire & roast s’mores
• Exchange gifts
• Jump in a lake or river
• Drink hot cocoa on the summit
• Play music
Hiking Elopement Timeline Example:
Two-Day Hiking Elopement With Guests in The North Cascades
Day 1: Ceremony with Guests
11:30am - 12:30pm: Sipping coffee and writing out vows
12:30pm - 2:30pm: Getting Ready & Details Photos
2:30pm - 3:15pm: First Look at Airbnb
3:15pm - 4:15pm: Drive from Airbnb to trailhead parking lot
4:15pm - 4:45pm: Hike to ceremony location
4:45pm - 5:15pm: Ceremony
5:15pm - 6:00pm: Hugs and celebration and photos with guests
6:00pm - 7:00pm: Drive + Hike to Artist Point
7:00pm - 8:30pm: Hike to Viewpoint + take Sunset Photos
Day 2: Hiking Just You Two
3:30pm - 5:30pm: Hike up fire lookout trail
5:30pm - 6:30pm: Picnic with mountain views
6:30pm - 8:30pm: Explore + take Sunset Photos
8:30pm - 9:30pm: Hike down the mountain with headlamps
Ready to start planning?
Let us help!
book a Free Planning consultation!
(99% of our couples reach out to us before they feel like they
"have it figured out", because that's what we're here to help with!)
Ready to start planning?
(99% of our couples reach out to us before they feel like they "have it figured out" because that's what we're here to help with!)
