A 2025 Guide to Eloping on a Glacier

If you’re asking yourself, “What if we eloped on a glacier?” You’re probably a thrill seeker, full-time adventurist, or someone looking for the best elopement photos of all time. There isn’t much information out there about eloping on an actual glacier, so let me be your guide in exploring this idea with you. Here’s everything you need to know firsthand if you’re considering a glacier elopement.

Legal & Logistics

Can You Have a Legal Wedding Ceremony on a Glacier?

Yes!. Glacier elopements are legally recognized just like any other, but group sizes are usually kept very small for safety and logistical reasons. Most often, it’s just the couple, an officiant, the photographer, and maybe a special guest. Exact limits can vary depending on your tour guide or helicopter company, since each operator has their own requirements.

Skip searching for a glacier officiant, you already have one!

Do You Need a Permit to Get Married on a Glacier?

It really comes down to where the glacier is. If it’s inside a U.S. National Park (like Glacier NP), you cannot walk on glaciers regardless of what permits you might have. In Alaska and other states, it’s a totally different story. Many glacier elopements happen on state or private land (like Matanuska or Knik), where you can walk on the ice, but usually only with a guide or helicopter service. When considering eloping on a glacier, it’s always best to check directly with whoever manages the land, which I am happy to do on behalf of my couples.

How Many Guests Can You Bring to a Glacier Elopement?

For private glacier elopements (like in Alaska), guest counts are usually kept very small. Because transportation is limited to helicopters or guided hikes, and safety is a big factor once you’re actually on the ice, it’s recommended to keep your group to just a handful of people, typically you, your partner, an officiant, and your photographer. Sometimes, couples bring along a maid or man of honor.

Locations

Best Glacier Elopement Locations in Alaska

Matanuska Glacier

Easily the most accessible U.S. glacier by car and one of the most popular glaciers to elope on.

Knik Glacier & Mendenhall Glacier

Two of the most popular helicopter-only accessible glaciers for eloping couples.

Can You Elope on a Glacier in Iceland, Canada, or Norway?

Yes, but just like in Alaska, it depends on the exact glacier and who manages the land. In Iceland, many couples book a guide or helicopter service to reach glaciers safely, since walking out without one is dangerous and not allowed in most areas. Canada is similar, but ceremonies on the ice itself usually require special permission. In Norway, glacier hikes and tours are common, but again you’d need a licensed guide, and rules about ceremonies vary by location. If you’re interested in eloping on a glacier abroad, let’s dig into the details together!

Getting There

How to Get to a Glacier for Your Elopement

Helicopter

This is the most common option in Alaska. A heli will fly you right onto the glacier. It’s quick, safe, and gives couples amazing aerial views along the way (plus portrait photos of you in a headset, flying over a glacier!). Most companies provide the necessary gear (like crampons) and limit group size to keep things safe. It’s definitely the most epic, but also the priciest, way to get married on a glacier.

Hike or Guided Tour

For more adventurous couples, guided glacier hikes are an option. Places like Matanuska Glacier allow you to reach the ice with a professional guide, who makes sure you’re equipped and safe. This route takes longer and requires more physical effort, but it gives you a true sense of adventure. It’s usually less expensive than a heli landing, but your ceremony spot may be more limited depending on where the guide can safely take you.

How Much Does a Helicopter Glacier Elopement Cost?

Basic per person (2 hr trip): ~$699 pp
Mid-level private package: ~$1,500 – $2,000 pp
Luxury full-day or overnight: ~$3,000+ pp

Weather & Timing

How Cold Is It on a Glacier in Summer?

Even in summer, glaciers stay cold. Temperatures on the ice usually sit around 20–40°F, but can feel much colder depending on the location, altitude, and weather that day. On helicopter-access glaciers, it’s common to go from a comfortable 60°F at ground level to freezing temps once you land on the ice. Layers, insulated shoes, and windproof gear are very important, even in July.

How Long Can You Stay on a Glacier for Photos?

Most couples spend about 30 minutes to 2 hours on the glacier, depending on how you got there and the weather. Helicopter tours usually give couples a set block of time for landing, while guided hikes might allow longer but are limited by safety and energy levels. Cold, wind, and shifting ice conditions all play a role, so even if you could stay longer, it’s usually best to keep it short and sweet for comfort and safety. Remember, glaciers are considered an extreme location to elope.

Best Time of Day for Glacier Wedding Photos

The sweet spot is usually early morning or late evening when the light is soft and low, giving the ice those blue tones and reducing harsh shadows. Midday sun can wash everything out and create glare on the ice, plus it’s often the busiest time for tours. If you’re flying in by helicopter, many operators recommend morning flights since weather and wind are more predictable earlier in the day.

Safety

Safety Tips for Eloping on Ice

Glaciers are gorgeous but unpredictable, so safety has to come first. Always go with a licensed guide or helicopter operator — never try to wander onto a glacier on your own. Wear the right gear (crampons or microspikes, warm layers, windproof jacket, gloves), and follow your guide’s instructions closely since fatal crevasses and unstable surfaces can be hidden under snow. Most importantly, build flexibility into your plans; weather can change fast on the ice, and sometimes flights or hikes need to be delayed or rerouted.

Style & Experience

What to Wear for a Glacier Elopement

Layers are your best friend. Start with a warm base layer (thermal leggings or tights under your outfit), add an insulated mid-layer, and top it off with a windproof jacket or shawl you can slip on between photos. Sturdy boots are a must, and you can swap into dress shoes for a few quick shots if you really want. Brides often choose flowy dresses that can blow in the wind but still allow for leggings underneath, while grooms usually layer suits with thermal undershirts. Don’t forget gloves, a hat or ear warmers, and crampons or microspikes.

Do You Need Special Shoes for a Glacier Elopement?

Sturdy hiking or mountaineering boots are a must. Most helicopter or guide services will provide crampons or microspikes that strap onto your boots. Comfort matters too, because you’ll be walking on uneven, slippery surfaces. So, pick boots that are broken in and warm enough for freezing temperatures. Bring a dress shoe to quickly change into for photos.

Can You Bring Champagne or Food Onto a Glacier?

It’s not recommended and not something I offer with my elopement packages. Glaciers are fragile environments, and anything you spill (alcohol, food, crumbs) seeps into the ice and can stick around for decades. Champagne spray can also make the ice slick and dangerous. If you want to celebrate, the best option is to keep the glacier experience clean and simple, then enjoy your toast or picnic once you’re back on warmer, solid ground.