1. Why Elope in GTNP?
I mean… it’s pretty epic!!!! The Tetons truly are something magical to behold. When you drive over that ridge from Jackson Hole, and you see the entire panoramic view of all the peaks for the first time, it is a feeling like no other. You really feel like ‘How To Train Your Dragon’ soundtrack should be playing. It’s that amazing.
To elope here means choosing beauty, adventure, and a sprinkle of whimsical (especially during wildflower season). You’ll get to say your vows in one the most beautiful places on earth. It’s quiet, serene, and a perfect place to start day 1 of your marriage.
The park offers so much variety; you’ve got the outer ring (no park pass required) which gives you that classic faraway look at the iconic mountains, giving you rolling hills and dainty wildflowers (Wedding Tree), or the winding rivers at its’ base (Snake River Overlook, Blacktail Ponds), and so many more iconic spots that offer different views, scenery, and vibes overall. The inner ring gets you up close and personal, and dang, it’s breathtaking. Inside the park you have access to the many beautiful lakes and thick forests, and wide open spaces, that are so vibrant and literally full of life. There are just so many options.
Here I’ll talk about the legality of eloping in the park, some logitics, and lastly, I’ll be listing out some of my favorite ways couples have personalized their Grand Teton elopement to fit their personality and relationship.
2. Legal Details: Permits & Marriage Licenses
If you’re dreaming of saying your vows beneath the peaks, there are just a couple of important legal steps to take care of first. The good news? Eloping in the Tetons is surprisingly straightforward when you know what to expect.
Special Use Permit for Grand Teton National Park
If you’re holding your ceremony inside the park, you’ll need a Special Use Permit from the National Park Service.
Here’s what that typically involves:
- Permit application required for all ceremonies, no matter how small
- Application fee (non-refundable)
- Designated ceremony locations — you must choose from the park’s approved sites
- Guest count limits depending on the location
- No elaborate setups (arches, large décor, chairs, etc. are typically not allowed)
It’s best to apply as early as possible, especially if you’re planning a peak-season elopement (summer and early fall fill quickly). Approval isn’t instant, so build that into your planning timeline. They have specific days when they open up permits for specific seasons, you can find that here.
Getting Your Wyoming Marriage License
To legally marry in the Tetons, you’ll obtain your marriage license in Teton County, where the park is located.
Here’s what makes Wyoming especially elopement-friendly:
- Both partners must appear in person at the County Clerk’s Office
- No waiting period — you can marry the same day you receive your license
- License is valid for one year
- No residency requirement (perfect for out-of-state couples)
You’ll need valid identification (such as a driver’s license or passport), and there is a license fee due at the time of application. After your ceremony, your officiant will sign the license, and it must be returned to the county to be officially recorded.
Who Can Officiate?
Wyoming is fairly flexible when it comes to officiants. You can have:
- A religious or civil officiant ( a super popular choice is https://satinnsage.com/officiating ) *she is amazing.
- A judge
- Or even a friend or family member (they may need to obtain temporary authorization depending on circumstances)
Many couples choose to have someone meaningful perform their ceremony, which adds such a personal touch to an already intimate day.
Taking care of the legal details may not be the most romantic part of eloping in the Tetons — but once the paperwork is handled, you’re free to focus on what really matters: standing together in one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country and promising forever. 🤍
A Quick Note for Traveling Couples
If you’re traveling from out of state (or internationally), don’t worry — Wyoming does not require residency, blood tests, or long waiting periods. Just plan to arrive early enough to visit the County Clerk’s office before your ceremony.
03. What to pack!
Obviously, you’ll bring your wedding attire but the biggest thing I see couples forget is WEAR COMFORTABLE SHOES!! The land is not forgiving to heels and tight dress shoes. You will be miserable if you don’t have shoes you can move around in. You can totally find cute options, and I am more than willing to help you with some options.
You will also want to bring and wear sunscreen. I know it sounds silly, but if you are wearing makeup, please wear SPF, and some kind of spray to reapply. The sun offers stunning colors and warmth to the park, but I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had couples go home a little burnt after their elopement.
Water & Snacks. We’ll be going to multiple locations throughout your day to experience different parts of the park. Water is a must, maybe a little caffeine, and lots of your favorite snacks to give you energy and avoid being hangry, so you can just be with your person, fully.
Here’s a list of other odds and ends that are also important: bear spray, extra layers, vow books, marriage license + permit copy, headlamps for any evening hiking.
04. Activities to Turn Your Elopement Into an Experience
Okay now this is the extra fun part! This is where you make your day completely about YOU! I like to encourage couples to choose something that you love to do together; it can be as simple as getting coffee in the morning together, or ending your night with a glass of wine under the moon (ooo whimsy), or kayaking on String Lake! The possibilities are endless and boundless! So let’s brainstorm a few ways to personalize your already special day.
A. The Morning Before: This is your time to ground yourselves and remember why you chose to elope in the first place.
If you’re staying in or near Jackson, consider:
- Grabbing coffee together at a local café
- Crafting your own flowers for the day (bouquet, boutonnière)
- Taking a quiet walk through town before the crowds wake up
- Decorate your own wedding cake
- Writing letters to each other
- Getting ready separately or together in a cozy cabin
If you’re planning a sunrise ceremony, the early wake-up call can actually feel pretty magical — headlamps on, thermoses in hand, stars still overhead. There’s something unforgettable about driving into the park in the quiet blue hour before dawn.
B. While You’re in the Park: Adventure Together
You can build your ceremony around an experience rather than just a location:
- Hike to an alpine overlook for private vows
- Kayak on String Lake
- Explore iconic spots like Schwabacher Landing for mountain reflections
- Picnic with your favorite foods and champagne
- Take a scenic drive and stop wherever the light feels perfect
- Watch for wildlife (from a safe distance, of course)
- Share your first dance in one of the wildflower fields
Instead of squeezing portraits into 30 minutes, you can wander, laugh, and let the landscape shape your day. I am all about finding the spots that speak to you, and will give you your dream day.
C. Afterward: Celebrate Your Way
After you’ve said your vows, keep the celebration going in a way that feels true to you.
You might:
- Head back to Jackson for a celebratory dinner/drink
- Book a private chef at your cabin
- Soak in a hot tub under the stars
- Go stargazing in the park (the Tetons are incredible at night)
- Spend the next day exploring more of the area
For couples wanting to extend the adventure, you could even continue on to nearby Yellowstone Park for waterfalls, geysers, and more epic landscapes.
The beauty of eloping is that the day doesn’t end after the ceremony. There’s no schedule pulling you away — just space to breathe, celebrate, and begin your marriage in a way that feels deeply personal.
Make it Meaningful
Getting married in GTNP, is truly unforgettable. You will cherish these memories for the rest of your lives. This extraordinary place is for those extraordinary loves- the kind of love you feel all the way deep into your bones. Your marriage deserves to be started in a place that reflects the depth of your relationship. As your photographer, I am here to make sure you just get to be present and just feel your day. It’s important for you to get your beautiful photos, but even more important to live in the moment. With me by your side, we’ll create your dream elopement and perfect start to your forever.
