You’ve decided to elope in Idaho (a great decision, by the way!) and you’re looking for inspiration for your adventure wedding. I’ve got your back! These are my top recommendations for planning an epic adventurous wedding experience in the Gem State.
One of the best things about eloping is that you can do whatever you want with your day! You’re not confined to a short time frame to fit everything in, you don’t have guests to worry about, and you don’t have to include any traditions that don’t hold meaning to the two of you. Meaning you can do just about anything you want to celebrate!
I’m an Idaho local and elopement photographer, and I specialize in helping couples like you plan epic elopements. I’m also a bit of an adventure lover, so I spend a lot of time exploring the outdoors. This guide is going to walk through some of the most adventurous and romantic ideas for celebrating your elopement day.
Remember, eloping is all about freedom to tailor your day to you. Take inspiration from this post and let it inspire you to think outside the box to create a day that is exciting and deeply personal to the two of you.
Here are 15 epic ideas for your Idaho elopement
1. Hike to an Epic View for a Sunrise Elopement
With over 115 mountain ranges within Idaho, there’s no shortage of stunning views and trails to choose from. To make it extra special, consider getting up early for a sunrise elopement. This is also the best way to beat the crowds if you’re seeking a secluded experience. A sunrise experience is going to guarantee an unforgettable morning and some pretty amazing photos to remember this day by.
2. Elope at one of Idaho’s Hot Springs
Did you know that there are over 200 natural hot springs in Idaho, with at least 120 of them being suitable to soak in? Ranging from natural hot springs to developed resorts, you can experience these springs in whatever fashion suits your adventure style. Add them into your day by hiking and soaking or staying at one of Idaho’s many hot spring resorts.
3. Have a Charcuterie Style Picnic on top of a Mountain
What’s more romantic than a picnic in the woods? Include your favorite charcuterie foods and have a charming picnic to celebrate your elopement day surrounded by nature. You can hike to a secluded spot in a forest or drive to a scenic park to take some time to relax and enjoy being married and good food. This is also a great time to bring your family into your day if you decide to bring them along with you.
Check out these other ways you can include family in your elopement experience
4. Elope at a Beautiful Alpine Lake
Whether you’re eloping up north in the Selkirks or further south in the Sawtooths, Idaho is home to hundreds of beautiful alpine lakes. Many of them are accessed via hiking trails of various difficulties, but there are several you can drive to as well. These lakes make for a stunning backdrop for an adventurous wedding!
5. Rent a Campervan for your Idaho Elopement
Looking to make your wedding a multi-day experience? Renting a camper van is a great way to see several locations in a short period of time. With the conveniences of a kitchen, toilet, and a real bed wherever you go, a camper van is perfect for adventurous couples that want to get off the beaten path and explore.
6. Have Your Elopement in One of Idaho’s Charming Small Towns
Idaho has some pretty rich history (see what I did there?) and is full of charming small towns. From resort areas like Coeur d’Alene and McCall to the true gems like Swan Valley and Wallce. These towns are full of historic architecture, good food, and beautiful scenery.
7. Elope with an Epic Waterfall Backdrop
Tie the knot with a stunning waterfall as your backdrop! Idaho is home to some really pretty waterfalls, including Shoshone Falls, which is taller than Niagra Falls at 212 ft. tall and 900 ft. wide. There are several beautiful waterfalls across the state you can choose from.
8. Have a Backpacking Elopement in Idaho’s Backcountry
This one’s for the truly adventurous couples: have a backpacking elopement! Escape from the crowds and surround yourself with Idaho’s beautiful backcountry. High in the mountains or deep in the forest, Idaho has thousands of acres of public land and trails to choose from. This is also a great way to get those epic sunrise views without having to wake up at an obscenely early hour.
9. Elope in a Magical Forest
Tie the knot surrounded by pines and cedar trees in one of Idaho’s beautiful forests. You’ll feel like you’re stepping into a fairytale. You can choose from a location that is easily accessible like this Idaho State Park elopement on Lake Pend Oreille or you can choose to venture deeper into nature, it’s up to you!
10. Get Married on Idaho’s Famous Slopes
Your elopement doesn’t have to take place in the summer. If you’re more into snowy weather than you are sunshine, Idaho has several world class ski resorts you can elope at! If you and your partner are avid skiers or snowboarders, you can even include that in your day!
Check out these mountain wedding venues in Idaho
11. Elope on the Shores of One of Idaho’s Serene Lakes
Idaho’s lakes are known for being some of the most beautiful lakes in the world! Lake Coeur d’Alene and Lake Pend Oreille are the two most popular, but there are dozens of stunning lakes throughout the state that make for stunning elopement locations. Add in some time for swimming, paddle boarding, or relaxing by the water to fully enjoy the moment and the scenery.
Learn about eloping at Priest Lake!
12. Explore Yellowstone National Park
Where better to celebrate getting married than visiting the worlds first National Park? This land of geysers and buffalo offers a unique landscape from anywhere else in the world and is perfect for couples seeking adventure. Whether you’re looking to hike, watch the wildlife, or enjoy the geysers, you’ll make some unforgettable memories in Yellowstone!
Check out my full guide to eloping in Yellowstone National Park to learn how to plan an epic adventure wedding here.
13. Have a camping elopement
Whether it’s in the front country of a State Park or deep in Idaho’s backcountry, camping is a perfect option for adventurous couples wanting a truly unique wedding experience. Create a cozy experience by glamping or fully embrace the adventure by backpacking.
14. Elope in one of Idaho’s Firelookouts
Idaho is filled with old fire lookout towers you can now rent for overnight stays. Eloping at a fire lookout is an amazing option if you want stunning mountain views far from the crowds. Not to mention you’ll get the best views of the sunrise and sunset without even needing to leave your bed. Check out this epic Idaho fire lookout Airbnb in North Idaho.
15. End your day with Stargazing
One of the best ways to end an exciting day is to lay under the stars wrapped in a blanket. In Idaho, it’s easy to get away from light pollution, especially if you are out in the backcountry, and the stars are incredible! Grab a blanket, build yourselves a cozy fire, and end the best day ever with some stargazing.
I hope you found this list of elopement ideas inspiring and helpful in your planning journey!
If you’re ready to go deeper in your planning for your Idaho elopement, check out my complete guide to eloping in Idaho. If you need more guidance for planning your elopement, I would love to help you out! As an Idaho elopement photographer, I can help you find the best location for your ceremony, help you plan activities for your day, and much more in addition to documenting your day. Contact me to start working together.
Happy eloping!
