How to Elope in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

An increasing number of couples are opting for a more intimate and adventurous alternative to getting married: eloping. Eloping allows you and your partner to exchange vows in a personalized and meaningful way, free from the stress and expectations of a traditional wedding. If you’re considering eloping, look no further than the picturesque and dreamy Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where breathtaking landscapes, vibrant flora, and romantic vistas await. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the perfect destination for your intimate elopement; full of life and lush greenery all year long and home to so many locations that make for the best spots to take wedding photos. Eloping should be a fun, exciting, and stress-free experience; to help make planning your dream elopement in the Great Smoky Mountains easy, I have created the ultimate guide to eloping in this stunning park.

Choosing the Right Time of Year & Location to Elope in the Great Smoky Mountains

When planning your dream Great Smoky Mountains elopement, one of the first questions you should ask yourselves is “When do we want to elope?” The park offers distinct beauty in every season, each with its own unique perks and considerations that I have listed below.

SEASONAL ELOPEMENT INFORMATION

Spring (March-May)

Springtime in the Great Smoky Mountains is a magical experience with blooming wildflowers, lush greenery, and moderate temperatures. The weather is typically beautiful from late March to May, making it ideal for outdoor ceremonies. However, be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Summer (June-August)

If you don’t mind a little extra heat in exchange for long days of sunlight and late sunsets, a summer elopement is just for you. The mountains are bustling with life, and the trails are lush and green. Summers can be busy with tourists, but there are plenty of secluded spots to find privacy. Keep in mind that summer also brings the potential for afternoon thunderstorms.

Fall (September – November)

Fall in the Smoky Mountains is absolutely stunning with vibrant foliage, cooler temperatures, and a crispness in the air. The fall colors typically peak in mid-October, drawing many visitors to the park. This season offers a breathtaking backdrop for your elopement photos. However, be aware that this is one of the busiest times of the year in the park.

Winter (December – February)

Winter elopements in the Great Smoky Mountains are perfect for couples who love the tranquility and beauty of snow-covered landscapes. The park is less crowded, and the serene winter scenery provides a unique and romantic setting. Be prepared for colder temperatures and potential road closures due to snow and ice.

Where to Elope in the Great Smoky Mountains

Okay, so you’ve picked out the perfect time of year to elope; now the next big question is where. The first thing you should ask yourself is what kind of vibe you want your elopement to have. The location you choose is more than just a pretty background; it’s the entire atmosphere of your elopement. Foliage, mountains, streams, etc., in the background will determine the overall look of the images. Do you want simple, classic mountain photos? Are you going for a secluded forest vibe? Do you want it to feel like a fairytale adventure? The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers a variety of stunning locations.

NORTH SMOKIES ELOPEMENT LOCATIONS

Below, I have listed my favorite elopement locations in the northern part of the park and when the best time to visit is:

Cades Cove

Cades Cove is one of the most popular and picturesque locations in the park. It features wide open fields, rustic cabins, and stunning mountain views. Early mornings and weekdays are the best times to avoid crowds.

Clingmans Dome

For breathtaking panoramic views, Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the park. It offers a stunning backdrop for your elopement, especially at sunrise or sunset. Be prepared for a short hike to reach the observation tower.

Laurel Falls

Laurel Falls is one of the park’s most popular waterfalls. The trail to the falls is relatively easy and offers beautiful photo opportunities. Early mornings are best to avoid crowds.

Elkmont

Elkmont is a historic district with charming cabins and beautiful forest scenery. It’s perfect for a more rustic and intimate elopement. The area is lovely year-round, but the fireflies in June add a magical touch.

SOUTH SMOKIES ELOPEMENT LOCATIONS

Below, I have listed my favorite elopement locations in the southern part of the park and when the best time to visit is:

Chimney Tops

Chimney Tops offers a more adventurous elopement location with its challenging hike and rewarding views. This spot is best for couples who enjoy hiking and want a dramatic backdrop for their ceremony.

Abrams Falls

Located in Cades Cove, Abrams Falls features a stunning waterfall and a scenic trail. The hike is moderate and provides beautiful spots for photos along the way. Early mornings are ideal to avoid crowds.

Newfound Gap

Newfound Gap offers incredible views of the mountains and valleys. It’s easily accessible and provides a stunning backdrop for your elopement. Sunrise and sunset are the best times for the most dramatic lighting.

Mingo Falls

Located on the North Carolina side of the park, Mingo Falls is a 120-foot waterfall that provides a breathtaking setting for your elopement. The short but steep hike to the falls is worth the effort.

Should We Include Guests in Our Elopement?

First, remember that your decision is yours (and your partner’s) to make, and whatever you decide should be a choice you make together and without any coercion or added stress from others. There are numerous factors that make the decision to elope solo or with others a tough one. Weddings can be expensive and if you’d prefer to spend your budget on something special for just yourselves, you are valid. Even planning a small gathering of 20 people requires permitting or a venue, food, décor, travel costs, it all can start to add up.

Deciding to elope solo or with others can be tough. Weddings can be expensive, so spending your budget on yourselves is valid. Even small gatherings need permits, venues, food, décor, and travel costs, which add up.

If you and your partner are ready, I recommend an intimate ceremony for just the two of you. This way, the day is completely yours to do whatever, wherever you want. But, if you can’t imagine getting married without family or friends but don’t want a big wedding, consider a small ceremony of no more than 20 people. Book your reception later in the day to allow time for photos after the ceremony. Deciding how to elope is a huge decision, as it marks the start of your lives together.

If you have questions, comments, concerns, what-ifs, what-abouts, etc.; please do not hesitate to contact me and I am happy to walk you through all of it.

Choosing the Best Photography Package to Elope in the Great Smoky Mountains

Eloping should not break the bank, and it’s important for you to select the package that makes the most sense financially. If you’re eloping in a courthouse and want a simple, quick session then 1 hour is perfect, but if you are wanting to do multiple looks at multiple locations 3+ hours is definitely needed. If you plan to host a small ceremony with guests, I recommend 4+ hours to ensure there is plenty of time for ceremony, family, and couples photos. No matter what kind of elopement you choose, we will curate a package that is just right for you.

Choosing the Rest of Your Vendors to Elope in the Great Smoky Mountains

If you decide to elope with a small ceremony, book a venue, or even want to go to the courthouse, you may need to do some planning. It’s important to book vendors as early as possible to lock in your date. This goes for a photographer, officiant, courthouse appointment, venue, reception, florals, décor, permits, etc., whatever applies to your big day. If you need recommendations, I am always happy to help you find the perfect vendors for your big day.

Choosing Where to Get Married “Legally” When You Elope in the Great Smoky Mountains

Getting married is not the most complicated process, but it is a process nonetheless. If you want to be legally married before the elopement session, schedule your appointment at the clerk’s office beforehand. If you plan to get married on the day of and want pictures after it is completely possible. You’ll want to schedule an appointment at the courthouse in whatever city/county you plan to elope in. In order to get legally married in Tennessee, you need a valid photo ID and social security card. If you complete a Tennessee pre-marriage course, the cost of the marriage license goes down significantly and you don’t have the three-day waiting period to get married. After you get your marriage license, you have 60 days to say “I Do.”

I have listed some of the major Tennessee cities’ Clerk of Court offices below.

CLERK OF COURT IN MAJOR TENNESSEE CITIES:

• Knox County Clerk of Court – 300 Main St., Knoxville, TN 37902 | 865-215-2385
• Blount County Clerk of Court – 345 Court St., Maryville, TN 37804 | 865-273-5800
• Sevier County Clerk of Court – 125 Court Ave., Sevierville, TN 37862 | 865-453-5502
• Monroe County Clerk of Court – 103 College St., Madisonville, TN 37354 | 423-442-2220

Packing and Preparing to Elope in the Great Smoky Mountains

Before packing for your elopement, think about the vibe that you’re going for and the location you chose. Is it rustic, adventurous, elegant, casual, etc.? Once you know what kind of vibe you’re going for, you can narrow down on a dress/outfits. There is no rule that says you have to wear white to elope, wear whatever makes YOU feel the best. After you pack your dress I would next suggest: hiking boots, comfortable shoes, layers for warmth, and possibly a change of clothes if you plan to hike. Also, don’t forget essentials like water, snacks, and any permits or paperwork you need.

On your elopement day, it is so important to eat a well-balanced meal and drink tons of water. It can get hot in the summer and cold in the winter, so it’s crucial to stay hydrated and prepared for the weather. Depending on the location, I will drop a pin exactly where parking is or send directions to you. Remember, it’s totally okay to be nervous; not everyone has their picture taken every day! I strive for the process to be a seamless and fun experience from start to finish. My goal as your elopement photographer is to deliver a lasting collection of images that feel authentic, real, and 100% you. We will laugh, have fun, and spend the day celebrating and capturing your love story.

Honeymooning After You Elope in the Great Smoky Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountains has so much to offer, and there are so many beautiful places to honeymoon at after eloping here. Below, I have listed some of the most romantic honeymoon destinations in and around the Smoky Mountains.

ROMANTIC HONEYMOON LOCATION GUIDE

NORTH SMOKIES HONEYMOON LOCATIONS

Below I have linked several of my favorite locations in the northern part of the Smokies that would make for the perfect honeymoon location.

• Gatlinburg, TN
• Pigeon Forge, TN
• Townsend, TN
• Cherokee, NC

SOUTH SMOKIES HONEYMOON LOCATIONS

Below I have linked several of my favorite locations in the southern part of the Smokies that would make for the perfect honeymoon location.

• Bryson City, NC
• Maggie Valley, NC
• Fontana Lake, NC
• Robbinsville, NC

I hope this guide will help you Elope in the Great Smoky Mountains. I am so lucky that I get to capture love stories in this beautiful park. If you want me to tag along and capture your Smoky Mountains elopement, please fill out my booking form!