How to Elope in Glacier National Park: Your Ultimate Guide
I’ve spent my entire life surrounded by mountains, growing up in Western Washington and now living in Idaho, so trust me when I say nothing compares to the grandeur you’ll find in Glacier National Park!
These mountains, carved by glaciers, are absolutely awe-inspiring.
Which is why eloping in Glacier National Park is the perfect choice if you want a jaw-dropping mountain backdrop when you say “I do”.
This park is massive, and weddings taking place inside Glacier have a lot of regulations you’ll need to follow. Today, I’m going to walk you through everything you need to know about getting married at Glacier National Park.
What to Expect When You Elope in Glacier National Park
Yes, you will be flabbergasted by these mountains. I guarantee it. But here’s what else to expect during your Glacier National Park elopement.
Wildlife Encounters
You’re pretty much guaranteed to see some incredible wildlife during your time in Glacier, especially if you’re out around sunrise or sunset. You’ll likely encounter bears (both black bears and grizzlies call the park home), deer, mountain goats, or wolves, to name a few of the incredible animals that call the park home.
Make sure you come prepared for a wildlife encounter and keep your bear spray at the ready.
A Rugged Outdoor Wedding Experience
The best part about getting married in Glacier National Park is the natural beauty. The mountain views, the clear blue rivers, and the old-growth forests are stunning. But an outdoor wedding can also mean being exposed to extreme elements, including snow, rain, and the hot sun.
Make sure you are prepared for just about anything, as the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, even in the middle of summer!
Want to know how to prepare for rain on your elopement day? Check out my guide!
Crowds in Glacier
There will be other people around if you get married in Glacier National Park in the summer months (especially June through early September). This park is a popular destination, which means it takes some careful planning to avoid crowds. But if you get up early, choose a wedding date outside of the busy season, and choose the right locations, you can avoid most of the crowds.
How to Elope in Glacier National Park
- Decide on an Elopement Date
- Choose a Ceremony Location
- Get Your Glacier Wedding Permit
- Book Your Travel & Accommodations
- Plan the Details of the Day
- Get Your Montana Marriage License
- Elope in Glacier!
Keep reading for a breakdown of each step, with tips and tricks to plan the best possible elopement experience!
When is the Best Time of Year to Elope in Glacier National Park?
Summer is going to be the best time to elope in Glacier National Park because it’s the warmest, the park roads are free from snow, and it’s the driest time of year. However, this is also the busiest season. Below is a breakdown of the seasons in Glacier so you can find exactly the right time of year for you and the experience you want to have.
Glacier in the Spring
March, April, May, & June
Spring in Glacier is a great time to see wildlife as bears come out of hibernation. The waterfalls are gushing with spring snowmelt, and the temperatures are mild.
Here’s what you can expect in Glacier during the Spring
- Abundant wildlife – From bears to deer, this is the best time of year for wildlife sightings!
- Cool evenings & mild afternoons – The weather is beginning to warm up, but not too hot yet.
- Fewer Crowds – This is a great time of year because the summer crowds haven’t hit, meaning less traffic and more solitude.
- Roads are Still Being Cleared of Snow – The Going to the Sun Road typically isn’t open to vehicles until late June or early July, which means you can’t travel far inside the park yet.
| March | April | May | June | |
| Average Precipitation | 2.15 in. | 1.84 in. | 2.59 in. | 3.45 in. |
| Average High Temperature (°F) | 45° | 53° | 59° | 59° |
| Average Low Temperature (°F) | 24° | 32° | 38° | 38° |
| Average Snowfall | 14.5 in. | 3.5 in. | 0.4 in. | 0.2 in. |
Glacier in the Summer
July, & August
This is the busiest season in Glacier National Park. All of the roads are open, and midday popular spots like Logan’s Pass and Avalanche Creek are nearly impossible to find parking at.
Here’s what you can expect in Glacier during the Summer
- The Warmest, Driest Weather – This time of year, the mountains are snow-free and accessible. The weather is at its warmest and driest.
- Lots of Crowds – This is the busiest time of year in the park, so be prepared to see lots of crowds throughout the park. Plan to get up early to find easy parking and avoid most of the crowds.
- The Going-to-the-Sun Road is Open – July and August are best for seeing the epic views along the Road, which is finally clear of snow and open.
- Water Activities – This is the best time of year for getting out on the water. Rent a canoe or bring your own paddleboard, but make sure to have it inspected if you bring your own watercraft.
| July | August | |
| Average Precipitation | 1.13 in. | 0.81 in. |
| Average High Temperature (°F) | 69° | 68° |
| Average Low Temperature (°F) | 44° | 44° |
| Average Snowfall | 0 | 0 |
Glacier in the Autumn
September & October
Early Autumn is the best time to get married in Glacier because the park roads are all open but most of the crowds are gone.
Here’s what you can expect in Glacier during the Autumn
- Fewer Crowds – The summer crowds begin to thin drastically after Labor Day. This is a much quieter time to visit the park while still having access to the Going-to-the-Sun Road.
- More Wildlife – Wildlife begins to return from higher elevations this time of year, meaning you have better odds of spotting some really cool animals this time of year.
- Colorful Fall Foliage – The trees begin to change colors in the Autumn, especially the foliage on the West side of the park.
| Steptember | October | |
| Average Precipitation | 1.19 in. | 1.38 in. |
| Average High Temperature (°F) | 58° | 44° |
| Average Low Temperature (°F) | 37° | 29° |
| Average Snowfall | 0.1 in. | 2 in. |
Glacier in the Winter
November, December, January, & February
Winter in Glacier is beautiful and peaceful. This time of year, the mountains are blanketed in snow, and the park is quiet, as not many people visit this time of year.
Here’s what you can expect in Glacier during the Winter
- Snow-Capped Mountains –
- Limited Amenities – Much of the park’s amenities, such as restaurants and visitor centers. The West side of the park is the most open this time of year.
- Winter Sports – There are several opportunities for winter sports in Glacier, including snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The park offers Ranger-led snowshoe walks for a guided experience.
- Access to Lake McDonald – The Going-to-the-Sun Road is plowed throughout the winter up to the Lake McDonald Lodge. This stretch of road offers plenty of epic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
| November | December | January | February | |
| Average Precipitation | 1.32 in. | 1.52 in. | 3.48” | 2.55” |
| Average High Temperature (°F) | 31° | 26° | 28° | 29° |
| Average Low Temperature (°F) | 19° | 13° | 15° | 12° |
| Average Snowfall | 17.2 in. | 37.5 in. | 39.6 in. | 22.5 in. |
Tips for Choosing the Best Elopement Date
Still not sure when you should elope in Glacier? Here’s a TLD version to break it down.
The Best Time to Elope in Glacier for Warm Weather
Early June or mid-September is the best time for warm, dry weather while avoiding the summer crowds.
The only drawback to early June is that most of the Going to the Sun Road is still being cleared of snow, and you can’t drive most of the iconic highway this time of year. However, there are still plenty of incredible viewpoints and elopement locations accessible this time of year!
The Best Time to Elope in Glacier for a Winter Wonderland
January through March is best for snow, but many of the park’s facilities and roads are closed. The Going to the Sun Road is plowed up to Lake McDonald Lodge through the winter. There are lots of options for winter sports activities, including cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Make sure to read up on the park’s website about visiting in the winter!
Sunrise or Sunset?
The best way to avoid crowds, no matter what time of year, is to hold your wedding ceremony at sunrise or sunset. Plus, the lighting is gorgeous this time of day!
Read all about how to plan a sunrise elopement!
Wedding Ceremony Locations in Glacier National Park
Choosing a ceremony location is a big and exciting decision! Where you have your ceremony will depend on several factors, including the size of your elopement (will you be bringing anyone with you?) and what time of year you want to get married, as some areas of the park are not accessible during the winter months.
It’s important to know that the park has a handful of designated locations where ceremonies are allowed. But don’t worry, you can explore anywhere in the park during your elopement day!
10-Mile Pullout (Jackson Bay)
This small rocky beach is located at a pullout along the Going to the Sun Road on the shores of Lake McDonald. It’s easy to access and an incredible location for a sunrise wedding ceremony!
Best Time of Year: All year
Best Time of Day: Sunrise
Wedding Size: Up to 20 people
Location: Lake McDonald
Avalanche Creek Picnic Area
The clear blue waters of McDonald Creek rush through these gorgeous mountains. This spot is easy to access but feels remote.
Best Time of Year: June through October
Best Time of Day: Sunrise
Wedding Size: Up to 15 people
Location: Avalanche Creek
Sun Point
This short hike takes you from the parking lot to a wide overlook of Saint Mary’s Lake and the epic mountains that surround it.
Best Time of Year: June through October
Best Time of Day: Sunrise or Sunset
Wedding Size: Up to 20 people
Location: Saint Mary’s Lake
Big Bend
This small pullout along the Going-to-the-Sun Road offers sweeping panoramic mountain views. Some of the best in the park!
Best Time of Year: July through September
Best Time of Day: Sunrise
Wedding Size: Up to 10 people
Location: Going to the Sun Road, near Logan Pass
Two Medicine Picnic Area
The gorgeous blue waters and unique, tower-like mountain peaks of Two-Medicine are among the most beautiful views in the park. This area is a bit more remote and offers a bit more privacy.
Best Time of Year: June through October
Best Time of Day: Sunrise or Sunset
Wedding Size: Up to 20 people
Location: Two Medicine
Getting Your Glacier National Park Wedding Permit
Once you’ve decided on a date and a wedding ceremony location, you’ll want to apply for your Special Use Permit. This permit is required for all weddings taking place inside Glacier National Park and should be applied for as early as possible, as they issue up to 2 permits per location each day, and they fill up quickly.
Check out my guide to Glacier National Park wedding permits for more detailed information and FAQ’s!
Here’s how to get a Permit for your Glacier National Park Wedding or Elopement:
- Download the Special Use Permit Application (you can find it on this page) and complete it.
- Make sure you include exact locations and times. You can also add a backup location in case your first choice is unavailable.
- Don’t forget to include your photographer’s info and contact information.
- Under “equipment”, be sure to list anything you plan on bringing with you, including camera equipment, bouquet, chairs, speakers, etc.
- Make sure you include your best estimate of how many people will be attending, and make sure you’ve chosen a location that is appropriate to that number.
- Submit the completed application to glac_sup@nps.gov
- Pay the non-refundable $125 application fee via credit card.
- Wait for a response from the Park Service. It can take several weeks to several months to get a response, and they will reach out if there are any questions about your application. Once it has been approved, you will receive a draft permit to review and sign.
- Receive your permit. You’ll want to print it out or download it to your phone to access.
- Send your permit to your vendors, including your photographer and videographer.
Tip! When choosing your ceremony location, choose a backup location to list on your permit in case your first choice is unavailable on the date you want.
You can find more information about Glacier National Park wedding permits on their website.
Getting Your Montana Marriage License
The other important documents you will need to elope in Glacier are your marriage license. You need to obtain your marriage license from the state you’ll be getting married in, which in this case is Montana.
In order to obtain your marriage license in Montana, you and your partner will need to appear in person at the County Clerk’s Office. To apply, you will need a form of photo ID, such as a Driver’s License, Passport, or Military ID, and to sign the paperwork in-person.
The nearest County Clerk is in Kalispell
The marriage license cost is $53, which can be paid in cash, check, or credit card (though there is an additional service fee for credit cards).
There is no waiting period, meaning you can get married the same day you receive your license. This license will only be valid in Montana and will be valid for 180 days after it’s issued (about 6 months).
While you can use your marriage license the same day you receive it, I always recommend planning to get it one to two days in advance.
Officiant
Your officiant must be an ordained minister to legally perform your marriage. This can be a judge, a clergy member, an ordained friend or family member, or even your photographer if they’re ordained (like I am!).
Witnesses
Montana requires you to have at least 2 witnesses attend your ceremony and sign your marriage license. If you don’t plan on bringing anyone with you, ask your photographer or officiant for help.
Glacier National Park Entrance Pass
In addition to your Special Use Permit, you will need an entrance pass for all vehicles entering the park. This pass can be purchased at the gate or online to save time. It costs $35 and is good for one week, meaning you can come and go as many times as you need during those 7 days.
Purchase your park pass or learn more here on the park’s website
If you plan on visiting any other National Parks in the next year, I recommend getting an America the Beautiful Pass. It costs $80 for U.S. residents and gets you into all 63 of our National Parks for a year.
Tip! If you’re a veteran, you can get an America the Beautiful Pass for free!
Where to Stay for Your Glacier National Park Elopement
Great lodging can turn a good trip into a great one, so make sure to find the perfect place to stay to make your elopement even more special!
The West side of the park has a lot more lodging options to choose from, with the town of West Glacier just a short drive away. There are even more lodging options in the nearby cities of Kalispell and Whitefish if you want to drive a little further, though I would only recommend that if you will be spending your elopement on the West side of the park.
Some of the most incredible mountain views will be on the East side of the park (not that the West side is lacking, it’s just different!). While lodging is more limited on this side, if you plan to elope on the east side of the park, I highly recommend finding lodging here, as it’s a 2-hour drive from West Glacier to East Glacier along Highway 2.
Tip! Staying inside the park will shorten driving time during your elopement day. Lodging books up super fast, so I recommend booking your lodging as early in the planning process as possible!
Glacier National Park Lodges & Cabins
There are five lodges inside Glacier National Park. One of the biggest benefits of staying in a lodge is that you are already located in some of the most scenic parts of the park. This is perfect for doing your first look because you are literally steps away from an incredible mountain backdrop!
Plus, the lodges are built with some unique, historic architecture. A unique stay can make your entire trip that much more memorable.
- Many Glacier Hotel
- Lake McDonald Lodge
- Cedar Creek Lodge
- Village Inn at Apgar
- Swiftcurrent Motor Inn & Cabins
- Rising Sun Motor Inn & Cabins
My personal favorite is the Lake McDonald Lodge because of its cozy architecture and close proximity to viewpoints, the lake, and town.
Campgrounds in Glacier National Park
There are 13 front country campgrounds in Glacier National Park. Camping can make for an extra adventurous elopement experience! Reservations for campgrounds are made through Recreation.gov and fill up quickly.
- Apgar Campground
- Avalanche Campground
- Fish Creek Campground
- Many Glacier Campground
- Rising Sun Campground
- St. Mary Campground
- Sprague Creek Campground
- Two Medicine Campground
Short-Term Rentals
If you want more space, privacy, or amenities (like a kitchen), then a short-term rental such as an Airbnb is the best way to go. There are some great options in West Glacier.
How to Get to Glacier National Park
Whether you are flying in from out of state or will be road-tripping, this park is one of the easier ones to get to! It’s located close to Kalispell, which has an international airport. Here’s what you need to know about getting to Glacier National Park.
Glacier National Park Entrances
There are eight entrances to Glacier National Park. Which one you choose to use will depend on where you stay and what area you want to spend the most time in. Glacier is a big park, so planning out your locations in advance will save time from driving from one location to the next on your elopement day.
- West Glacier Entrance – Best for Lake McDonald and the Going-to-the-Sun Road
- Saint Mary Entrance – Best for Saint Mary Lake and the Going-to-the-Sun Road
- Two Medicine Entrance – Best for Two Medicine Lake & Pray Lake
- Camas Entrance
- Camas Creek Entrance
- Polebridge Ranger Entrance – Best for Bowman Lake and Kintla Lake
- Many Glacier Entrance – Best for Lake Sherburne and Swiftcurrent Lake
- Walton Ranger Station – Best for Walton Picnic Area
The North and West entrances are the only way to access the park in the winter months, with the North Entrance being the only one open all year round (weather permitting).
Flying to Glacier National Park
The nearest airport to Glacier National Park is Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) in Kalispell, Montana. It’s located 30 miles (a 40-minute drive) from the West Entrance.
Plan the Details of Your Elopement
Filling in the details of your day is one of the most fun parts of planning your elopement! In addition to your ceremony, start thinking about how you want to celebrate your wedding day. Remember, this day is all about doing things that bring you joy, so get outside the box of tradition and feel free to include your favorite hobbies or things that have special meaning to the two of you.
Glacier Elopement Activity Ideas:
- Go on a hike
- Take a scenic drive on the Going-to-the-Sun Road
- Stargaze over Lake McDonald
- Watch the sunrise or sunset
- Rent a canoe and paddle on one of the park’s gorgeous lakes
- Bike the Going-to-the-Sun Road before it opens to vehicles in June
- Go waterfall chasing
- Take a guided horseback riding tour
- Fly fishing
Looking for more ideas? Check out this list of 50+ elopement day activities!
Create a Timeline for Your Elopement
Once you know all of the fun things you want to include on your big day, you need to put it all together in a timeline. Creating a timeline will make your day run smoothly and give you time to relax because you’ll know exactly when you need to leave for the next event.
When creating your timeline, make sure to allow extra time to get from one location to the next, since finding parking can be difficult during the day.
Scheduling Tips for Your Glacier Elopement
Whether you plan on a casual day watching the wildlife or want to prioritize taking some epic photos, timing plays a big part in planning your day.
- Mornings and evenings have the best light for portraits.
- Mornings and evenings are also the best times for wildlife sightings.
- If you want to avoid crowds at busy locations in the park, plan for before 8am and after 5pm.
Frequently Asked Questions about Glacier Elopements & Weddings
Can You Get Married in Glacier National Park?
Absolutely! You will need a special permit for your ceremony, and you will need to hold it at one of the park’s designated locations for weddings, but you can absolutely get married in Glacier National Park!
How Much Does it Cost to Elope in Glacier National Park?
Most couples who elope in Glacier end up spending between $8,000-$15,000, with the biggest expense being on their photographer.
To elope in Glacier, all you need is a Special Use Permit, which costs $125, an entrance pass to get inside the park, which costs $35, and a Montana Marriage license, which costs $53. That brings the cost to $213 to elope in Yellowstone! Of course, you’ll also have to account for other expenses, such as transportation, lodging, photography, etc., but it’s all up to you to decide how elaborate you want your elopement to be.
Where Can You Get Married in Glacier National Park?
There are several designated locations for wedding ceremonies in Glacier National Park, with options for groups of 2 to 250! Designated Glacier wedding ceremony locations include campground amphitheaters, Two Medicine, and Lake McDonald.
Do You Need a Permit to Elope in Glacier National Park?
Yes, as discussed above, you do need a permit to get married in Glacier National Park. It costs $125 and must be applied for at least 2 weeks in advance, but I recommend applying several months in advance.
What is the Best Time of Year to Elope in Glacier?
The best time to elope in Glacier National Park is typically early June through mid-September. Summer offers full park access, while late spring and fall can be less crowded.
Can you get married in Yellowstone in the Winter?
Yes, winter weddings and elopements are allowed in Glacier, but access is limited. The road up to Lake McDonald is maintained year-round, which allows for some pretty gorgeous winter elopement locations in the park!
Are dogs allowed at Glacier Weddings?
Pets are very restricted in Glacier National Park, and unfortunately, you’ll need to leave your furry friends at home if you’re getting married in the park.
Your Glacier National Park Elopement Photographer & Planning Partner
I love helping couples plan extraordinary elopements in the beauty of nature, and it doesn’t get much more beautiful than Glacier National Park! I specialize in working with couples to help them plan amazing elopements in Montana by providing location recommendations, permit guidance, creating a timeline for your day, and photographing the experience in beautiful images.
If you’re searching for a Glacier elopement photographer with tons of experience in the park and who will provide you with a fun photo experience, let’s chat about your Glacier elopement!
Happy Eloping!
