A Guide to Choosing A National Park for Your Adventure Elopement

October 13, 2023

Elopements, Location Guides, National Parks

Choosing to elope is more than a celebration of love; it’s an expression of personal style and deep connection. For the adventurous spirit, national parks offer an idyllic stage, combining breathtaking landscapes with an intimate setting. As an experienced adventure elopement photographer, I have ventured through countless national parks, capturing unique love stories set against some of the most awe-inspiring backdrops nature has to offer. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of planning your national park elopement, from selecting the perfect location to understanding the nuances of outdoor photography.

Why National Parks are Perfect for Elopements

Diverse Landscapes

National parks are not just scenic; they are diverse. Whether it’s the lush greenery of the Pacific Northwest, the stark deserts of the Southwest, or the dramatic mountain ranges of the Rockies, each park offers a unique palette that can dramatically enhance your elopement photos.

Privacy and Intimacy

National parks can be vast and secluded, offering you a private, intimate setting for your ceremony. This intimacy allows for genuine, unguarded moments to be captured, creating unforgettable memories.

Conservation and Sustainability

Eloping in a national park often means adhering to Leave No Trace principles, which ensures your special day contributes to the preservation of these beautiful spaces for future generations.

Selecting the Right National Park for Your Elopement

1. Yosemite National Park, California

  • Why It’s Ideal: Yosemite’s iconic cliffs and ancient sequoias provide a dramatic and historic setting for elopements.
  • Key Photography Spots: El Capitan, Yosemite Valley, Tunnel View.
  • Seasonal Considerations: Each season offers a different charm, from the lush waterfalls in spring to the golden hues and crisp air of autumn.

2. Zion National Park, Utah

  • Why It’s Ideal: Known for its red rock landscapes and river valleys, Zion offers an otherworldly backdrop that is both vibrant and striking.
  • Key Photography Spots: Emerald Pools, The Watchman, The Subway.
  • Seasonal Considerations: Spring and fall provide milder weather, while summer offers extended daylight but requires navigating through higher temperatures.

3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina

  • Why It’s Ideal: This park is renowned for its rolling mist and biodiverse landscapes, offering a mystical setting.
  • Key Photography Spots: Clingmans Dome, Cades Cove, Roaring Fork.
  • Seasonal Considerations: Fall is spectacular with its fiery foliage, while spring brings wildflowers and lush greens.

Planning Your Elopement: Detailed Tips and Considerations

Permits and Regulations

Obtaining the right permits is crucial as each park has specific rules designed to protect the environment and ensure the safety of all visitors. Check the National Park Service’s official website or contact park authorities well in advance to secure your permit.

Best Time to Visit

Timing your visit can make a significant difference in your experience and photos. Consider the seasonal weather patterns and tourist influx, which can vary greatly between parks and seasons.

Hiring the Right Photographer

Choose a photographer who not only specializes in elopements but also has experience shooting in various natural environments. A good adventure elopement photographer will know how to capture dynamic landscapes and intimate moments alike, ensuring that your photos tell a comprehensive story of your day.

What to Bring: Gear and Preparation

  • Clothing: Dress for the location and season. Layering is key in many national parks where temperatures can fluctuate.
  • Footwear: Durable, comfortable footwear is crucial. Consider the terrain and the amount of walking required.
  • Accessories: Simple accessories that blend with the natural environment can enhance your photos without overpowering the natural beauty.

How to Follow Leave No Trace During Your Elopement

Adhere to environmental guidelines such as staying on trails, packing out what you bring in, and respecting wildlife. Consider incorporating sustainable practices into your elopement, like using local vendors and eco-friendly decor.

An elopement in a national park combines the grandeur of nature with the sanctity of matrimony. The parks not only serve as a stunning backdrop but also add a layer of depth and significance to your union. As a photographer, my mission is to capture the essence of your relationship against these timeless landscapes, ensuring that your elopement is nothing short of magical. Through careful planning, respect for nature, and a spirit of adventure, your national park elopement will be an unforgettable start to your life together. Planning an elopement and need some more tips? Click here!

Want to chat about your elopement photography? Start the conversation here!

Hi! I'm emily!

i'm a traveling wedding & elopement photographer specializing in digital & 35mm film capturing adventurous, passionate, madly in love couples

Who’s this girl that’s obsessed with evergreens, anyway?

Inspired by nature, driven by connection.

Hi, I’m Emily! I'm a fully hybrid wedding & elopement Photographer telling your love story through digital & 35mm film. 

The short of it: I’m a Florida based wedding & elopement photographer who is way too into capturing the little moments that sometimes get lost during big, grand weddings. I'm a national park-traveling, adventure-craving, sunset-chasing, lover of all things love, and my passion is helping couples showcase their love for one another in an intentional and authentic way. 

Your love story is unique, your wedding photos should be too. All of my work is carefully created with the purpose of capturing the warm and intimate moments that make your story truly yours.


Like evergreen trees, my photos are everlasting. 

as seein in:

03

PLEASE ALLOW 12-48 HOURS FOR RESPONSE TIME.

INQUIRIES RECEIVED ON WEEKENDS WILL BE ANSWERED NEXT BUSINESS DAY! 

What’s your favorite place you’ve traveled together?*

What are 3 words that describe the kind of experience you want to have on your wedding day?*

what is your venue or where do you want your session to take place?

How did you find me?*

Do you have a date in mind?*

What type of session are you after?*

Your PHONE NUMBER*

your email address*

you & your lovers first/last names

Whether you’re planning a wedding, elopement, or just want to celebrate your love story, let’s chat about how we can work together to create something beautiful. I take on a limited number of weddings each year, so I can provide an exclusive & highly personalized experience for each couple.

READY TO DO THE DANG THING?

here are a few of my favorite resources

NEED SOME inspiration?