The United States is a country with incredibly diverse scenery with some of the best places to elope. You’ll find anything from vast deserts to alpine lakes, and just about everything in between!
One of my favorite things about elopements is that you get so much freedom to decide where you want to tie the knot! But with so many options, it’s easy to get caught in analysis paralysis. So, here are some of the best places to elope in the US to get you inspired!
Mountain Elopements
If you want to work for the views with a hike on your elopement day, the mountains might be the perfect place to elope! But don’t worry, even if you aren’t looking for miles of elevation gain, there are plenty of overlooks, shorter hikes, and easily accessible spots where you can be surrounded by mountain peaks on your elopement day. The best time to elope in the mountains is in July and August, as higher elevation areas often stay snow covered into mid summer.
Glacier National Park
This one’s my favorite national park, so I might be a little biased, but I think the glacier carved peaks and valleys make this one of the best places to elope in the US. With acres of wilderness across Montana’s rocky mountains, miles of trails to explore, and plenty of opportunities to spot mountain goats, you’ll have no trouble finding a scenic backdrop for your ceremony.
Yosemite National Park
This has become one of the most iconic places to elope in the US, and for good reason! From the towering majesty of it’s granite cliffs to the waterfalls and giant Sequoia trees found around the park, Yosemite has different backdrops and scenery throughout the park.
North Cascades National Park
North Cascades National Park is one of three national parks in Washington, and it’s the least visited one in the state! But this just means you’ll be more likely to find a spot to yourselves. You’ll be surrounded by the towering, snow capped peaks of the Cascade mountain range, along with crystal clear, tranquil alpine lakes and colorful wildflower fields that bloom in early summer.
Beach Elopements
From towering cliffs over the beaches of Lake Superior to oceanside parks on the coast, there are tons of amazing spots in the US for couples who want to get married by the water.
Minnesota’s North Shore
The midwest is an underrated elopement location, which means there are tons of spots where you’ll be able to elope in complete privacy! The north shore of Lake Superior offers beaches (including a black sand beach!) and overlooks that tower over the water. One of my favorite spots is Palisade Head, a cliff edge rising almost 1,000 feet above the lake. You can find more epic beach spots in Minnesota here!
Big Sur
Located on the winding highway that traverses the coast of California, even just driving through Big Sur provides jaw dropping views. It’s one of the best places to elope in the US, as you can say your vows on a cliff over the ocean, or go down to one of the beaches. Often, you’ll even be able to spot sea lions sunbathing on the shore!
Forest Elopements
There’s something magical about walking through a forest dense with trees that tower above you, and if you want to chase that feeling on your wedding day, consider a forest elopement!
Newport State Park
This state park is located in Wisconsin, and features over 2,300 acres of woods! There are trails that go through the forest and end at the shoreline of Lake Michigan, and you can explore deep in the woodsy park to find some solitude. This park is even designated as a Dark Sky Park, which means it’s dark enough for stargazing, so you can end your adventure elopement looking up at the stars!
Redwoods National and State Parks
The most iconic, dramatic forest views can be found in the California Redwoods. The trees tower high above you, and if you’re near the coast, you’ll often find a gorgeous canopy of fog lingering over the Redwoods. Check out Del Norte for a combination of forest and ocean hikes, or visit the Rockefeller Forest to see the world’s largest Redwoods!
Desert Elopements
If you crave the vast, open landscapes of the desert, here are some of the best places to elope in the US with desert views! As the rest of the US drops to freezing temperatures, many of these desert locations stay temperate year round.
Sedona, Arizona
The town of Sedona is known for its quirky artisan shops, local eateries, and spiritual centers – but the real draw is the red rock formations that surround it. You can explore the desert on your elopement day, and even take a jeep tour or a helicopter ride over the canyons!
Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree, named for the twisty, bristled Joshua Trees native to the area, is full of unique boulders and rock formations, cactus gardens, and sweeping desert vistas. It’s the perfect location for an elopement, with a variety of trails to explore.
Ready to Find Your Elopement Location?
Every couple is different, and each elopement is unique – which is why I create customized lists of elopement location options for all of my couples! A big part of my job as an elopement photographer is helping you find that perfect spot to say your vows – and ensuring that it’s a little off the beaten path. If you’re ready to start planning your day, let’s talk!
