Yellowstone Elopement Packages
Elope amidst the awe-inspiring landscapes of Yellowstone National Park promises an unforgettable adventure for couples seeking a unique experience in the heart of the wild-west. The untamed beauty of nature becomes the backdrop for your love story, spanning over 3,472 square miles, stretching across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho; Yellowstone captivates with its diverse ecosystems, geothermal wonders, and abundant wildlife. As an experienced elopement photographer deeply connected to this majestic region, I am thrilled to guide you through the enchanting possibilities of exchanging vows in one of the world's oldest and most iconic national parks.
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About Yellowstone National Park
Map of Yellowstone National Park
How to Elope in Yellowstone National Park
Marriage Laws in Wyoming, Montana, & Idaho
Where to Elope in Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone Elopement Packages
When is the Best Time to Visit Yellowstone
About Yellowstone National Park
Where is Yellowstone National Park?
Yellowstone National Park covers an area of 3,472 square miles and is located in the northwest region of the United States. Though the official address is in Wyoming, the park is in three states: Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. Most of the park is in Wyoming, with a small section in Montana to the north and northwest and an even smaller section in western Idaho.
How to get to Yellowstone National Park
Couples often opt for a road trip toward one of the five entrances to the park, normally choosing the closest one to them.
Alternatively, you can fly into Yellowstone Airport, just 2 miles north of the west entrance, or you can fly into Jackson Hole Airport, which is only 56 miles from the southern entrance of Yellowstone.
When did Yellowstone become a National Park?
Yellowstone National Park, established in 1872, is not only the first national park in the United States but is also the first one in the world. The Yellowstone National Park Protection Act, passed by the 42nd U.S. Congress, paved the way for its establishment. President Ulysses S. Grant signed the act into law on March 1, 1872.
Is the park open year-round?
Yellowstone National Park is open every day, all year round. However, access to the park may be limited during fall, winter, and spring due to weather conditions and road closures. The only road that stays open throughout the year is the road that goes from the North Entrance (Gardiner, MT) to the Northeast Entrance (Cooke City, MT). You will also find that some facilities may close during off-seasons.
What animals can I see?
Yellowstone National Park has the largest concentration of mammals in the lower 48 states. Couples can expect to witness diverse wildlife, including bison, deer, pronghorn, elk, bighorn sheep, and sometimes bears, wolves, moose, and many more. However, please note that wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed and depend on several factors, including the season, weather, time of day, and luck. Always keep a safe distance from all wildlife and respect their natural behavior. It is not recommended to hold weddings or gatherings near wild animals or locations that interfere with an animal's natural behavior.
Can you stay in the park?
Multiple lodging options are available within or near the park. Inside the park, nine lodges offer hotel-style or cabin-style accommodations. While some lodges are open year-round, others are seasonal. Additionally, you can camp in one of the 12 campgrounds within the park or go backcountry camping with a permit. However, it is advisable to reserve your spot early, as the lodgings and campgrounds tend to fill up quickly. You can check the availability and rates of the lodges and campgrounds on the park's website. If you prefer staying outside the park, you can find many hotels, motels, cabins, vacation rentals, and bed and breakfasts near the five entrances.
Map of Yellowstone National Park
How to Elope in Yellowstone National Park
Getting married in Yellowstone National Park is a relatively simple process. Below is a general overview of what you should expect to prepare for your Yellowstone wedding. You can read more on the Yellowstone National Park official website.
Apply for a Special Use Permit:
You must obtain a Special Use Permit if you want your ceremony to occur in any park area. These permits are usually accepted up to 12 months in advance but no later than 2-4 weeks before your desired ceremony date. Please note that a non-refundable application fee of $250 is required to be considered.
Choose a Location:
Remember that Yellowstone National Park does not allow exclusive use of any area, so regular visitor activity will likely occur during your ceremony. Your group size, the season, and the time of day will all be considered when determining the approval of your requested location. View popular Yellowstone elopement locations.
Obtain a Marriage License:
The National Park Service does not require a marriage license to be obtained for wedding ceremonies to take place within the park. However, if couples want their union to be legally recognized, it is recommended that they follow state requirements for whichever state the ceremony will take place.
Hire a Photographer:
Hire your photographer ahead of time to ensure availability and adequate accommodations for your Yellowstone elopement.
Marriage Laws in Wyoming, Montana, & Idaho
Eloping in Wyoming:
Wyoming has vast expanses of untouched natural beauty featuring expansive plains, rugged canyons, and majestic mountains. The state's cowboy heritage is evident in its farmland and historic sites like the iconic Old Trail Town. Wyoming is sparsely populated, allowing for stargazing under its clear night skies, and it prides itself on a spirit of independence and wide-open spaces, making it a unique and captivating destination for couples seeking a taste of the untamed American West.
Marriage License:
You must apply for a marriage license at any county clerk's office in Wyoming.
Residency and Citizenship:
Your residency and citizenship status do not affect the marriage licensing process in Wyoming. Being a resident of Wyoming or a U.S. citizen is not a requirement for getting married in the state.
Cost:
A Wyoming marriage license costs $30.
Application:
The marriage license application process takes between 15 and 30 minutes.
Attendance:
Only one applicant must apply in person with a valid ID.
Age Requirements:
If you are 18 years old or above, you can get married without requiring the consent of your parents. If you are between 16 and 17 years of age, you can get married with the permission of your parent or legal guardian. However, if you are 15 or younger, you must obtain a court order from Wyoming to get married.
Solemnization:
After obtaining the marriage license, it must be followed by solemnization.
Eloping in Montana:
Montana is located in the northern Rocky Mountains of the United States. Known as "Big Sky Country," it is famous for its vast expanses of rolling plains, towering mountain ranges, and true western landscapes. Montana also boasts a rich cultural heritage evident in its Native American history and cowboy traditions. With its unspoiled landscapes, adventurous spirit, and authentic Western experience, Montana is a unique look into an old and simple Western life.
Marriage License:
To get a Montana marriage license, you can visit the clerk of the district court office for a fee of $531. If at least one of you lives in Montana, you can apply for the license and get married anywhere in the state. However, if neither of you is a resident of Montana, you should apply for the license in the county where the wedding will take place.
Declaration of Marriage:
Instead of having your marriage solemnized, you can file it in Montana. The declaration should include your name, age, residence, parents' birth names and addresses, marriage date, and a statement of legal competence to marry. You or a Montana-licensed lawyer can draft the declaration, which must be attested to by two witnesses. The fee for filing the declaration of marriage is $531.
It's important to note that in Montana, individuals must be at least 16 years old to get married. If you're under 18, you must obtain parental permission and prove that you and your partner attended two counseling sessions before completing the application. Additionally, they’ll need to obtain judicial approval.
Eloping in Idaho:
Idaho boasts a diverse landscape of natural wonders, ranging from mountains, including the stunning Sawtooth Range, to scenic lakes, such as Lake Coeur d'Alene. The Snake River, flowing through the picturesque Hells Canyon, creates a dramatic natural border around the state. Idaho is also known for its vast wilderness areas, like the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness, providing sanctuary to diverse wildlife species like eagles, wolves, and elk. The state has a rich agricultural heritage and is the largest producer of potatoes. Additionally, Idaho embraces its mining history, with historic towns like Wallace that preserve the charm of the past.
Appear together at a County Recorder’s Office:
Marriage licenses in Idaho are issued in person by County Recorders1. Some counties may require that an appointment be made ahead of time.
Read an AIDS information sheet and sign the Marriage License Affidavit:
Both parties are required to read an AIDS information sheet and sign the Marriage License Affidavit before getting married.
Pay the fee:
You will need to pay $30 in cash.
Provide a social security number for each applicant:
If you are not a U.S. citizen, please ensure to bring identification from your home country. Also, please make sure that your identification is up-to-date and valid.
Provide proof of identity and age:
One form of identification and age verification is required: current driver's license, state-issued ID card, passport, original birth certificate, or certified copy.
It's important to note that there's no waiting period before you can use the marriage license. You can get married on the same day you obtain it. However, if you don't use the license within a year, you must contact the Idaho Bureau of Vital Records and Health Statistics. If an applicant is under 16, they'll require parental consent as a notarized statement. It's also necessary to obtain permission from the Court.
Where to Elope in Yellowstone National Park
Weddings are permitted in some regions of Yellowstone National Park depending on the location, group size, time of year, or day. A Special Use Permit is required for your ceremony to take place in any area of the park, and applications can be submitted up to 12 months in advance, but no later than 2-4 weeks before the requested date. A $250 non-refundable application fee is also required.
Eloping in the Canyon Area
In the Canyon Area, the designated location for weddings is Artist Point. The maximum group size allowed is 40 people, and carpooling is recommended as parking is limited on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Eloping Near Old Faithful
To the east of the famous Old Faithful is a designated gravel area right before the lodge. This venue can accommodate up to 40 people and offers ample parking opportunities. However, it’s important to remember that parking lots fill up quickly as visitors come to watch Old Faithful erupt.
Eloping in Thermal Areas
Getting married in Yellowstone's Thermal Areas is a unique and surreal experience, with bubbling geysers, colorful hot springs, and steamy landscapes that offer a dramatic and otherworldly backdrop for wedding ceremonies. Unfortunately, with high visitor rates and thin boardwalks, it is challenging to host ceremonies here. Most requests are not approved; however, you’re welcome to try.
Eloping in Mammoth Chapel
Getting married in the Mammoth Chapel offers a charming and intimate atmosphere, with its historic architecture, scenic surroundings, and majestic elk known to rest outside on the chapel lawn, this venue provides a picturesque setting for a romantic wedding ceremony intertwined with nature. In addition to a wedding permit, a reservation (and additional reservation fee) is also required to use the Mammoth Chapel. Please make a reservation by calling (307) 344-2110.
Please note that Yellowstone National Park does not permit exclusive use of any area, and couples should expect regular visitor activity during their ceremony. The National Park Service does not require a marriage license to be obtained for wedding ceremonies within the park; however, for it to be legally recognized, couples must follow state requirements.
Yellowstone Elopement Packages
All elopement packages include my travel to anywhere in the United States (no hidden or extra fees!), customized location scouting and research, permit assistance, personalized vendor recommendations, unique-to-you + your location activity suggestions, and a customized elopement timeline for your one of a kind day. Every elopement gallery also includes high-resolution digital images with printing rights and a private online gallery to view, print, download, and share your gallery with your family + friends to relive the day with you!
4 Hour ~ $3000
Perfect for the couples who are wanting to take a more simplistic approach to their elopement day. Typically this package is ideal for capturing getting ready, a short hike to ceremony location, and couples portraits.
8 Hour ~ $5000
Perfect for couples wanting a day of adventure like a long hike, off-roading, or traveling to multiple locations. This package is best for telling the complete story of your elopement day. Typically couple’s who are eloping just the two of them will select this package to document their day for the friends + family who are not in attendance to have that opportunity to experience the day. Also ideal for couples bringing friends + family and would like to have their reception captured as well. Your reception could look like pizza at your airbnb around a fire with your parents + siblings or a private chef serving you a 3 course meal on a table decorated in florals.
12 Hour ~ $7000
Perfect for couples looking for complete coverage of their elopement story. This package offers the ultimate storytelling experience. From waking up and having coffee with your partner to roasting marshmallows on a fire after dawn. Couple’s who are eloping just the two of them will select this package to document their day for the friends + family who are not in attendance to have that opportunity to experience the day. Also ideal for couples bringing friends + family and would like to have their full day with their guests documented.
Multi-Day ~ $9000
Perfect for couples wanting a multi-day experience with a lot of adventure. This package is best if you’re wanting to elope in one epic location and also experience another epic location the following day. An example of this would be eloping with family in Yellowstone at the Old Faithful Geyser and ending the evening at your Airbnb with dinner and drinks and the following day planning a more extensive hike to the upper falls of Yellowstone River with just your significant other or enjoying a more relaxed day cruising the scenic road through the park.
When is the Best Time to Visit Yellowstone
Generally, the months between April and early October, known as the shoulder months, are considered the best times to visit. During these months, the weather is mild, the crowds are fewer, and there are few road closures. June through August are the most popular months to visit, partly due to warm weather and school holidays. If you’re interested in wildlife, autumn is one of the best times to view them. The weather is still mild, and the summer crowds have dispersed, leaving plenty of viewing opportunities for wildlife.
Winter
Winter in Yellowstone becomes serene as fresh snow covers the landscape. The stark white highlights the steaming geothermal pools and erupting geysers. Herds of bison and elk navigate to lower valleys for food, creating great viewing opportunities. Unfortunately, the weather in Yellowstone can be unpredictable, and roads often experience closures during this time.
Spring
Yellowstone National Park transforms in spring as the snow melts, uncovering green meadows and blooming wildflowers. The waterfalls become more powerful and dynamic, and wildlife teems with newborn life against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains and steaming geothermal areas.
Summer
During the summer, the expansive wilderness comes alive with diverse ecosystems, including grizzly bears, wolves, and herds of elk. At the same time, the iconic geysers, like Old Faithful offer regular eruptions against a backdrop of clear blue skies, stunning vistas, pristine lakes, and cascading waterfalls.
Fall
Fall in Yellowstone is breathtaking. The foliage turns into vibrant colors, contrasting against evergreen trees while elk engage in their rutting season and Bison challenge each other for females. It's a time of visual splendor and fascinating animal behaviors with moderately chilly temperatures.
What to do in Yellowstone National Park
Winter Activities
Ski
Snowshoe
Ride a snowmobile or snow coach
Camp in the backcountry
Summer Activities
Explore thermal basins
Hike a trail
Watch wildlife
Take photographs
Bike
Ride a horse
Camp
Have a picnic
Participate in a ranger program
Attend Indigenous cultural events
Become a junior ranger
Join a guided tour
Fish
Boat
Go swimming
Where to Stay When Visiting Yellowstone
Camping in Yellowstone
Yellowstone National Park offers 12 campgrounds with over 2,000 established campsites. All campsites must be reserved in advance, except for Mammoth Campground, which offers first-come, first-served sites from October 15 - April 1. Most campsites are reserved far in advance, so making reservations as early as possible is recommended.
Glamping in Yellowstone
Airbnb’s near Yellowstone
Teton Luxury Cabin with Mountain Views
Modern Cabin with Teton Views
Teton View Cabin
Lodge at Canyon Loop
Grand Teton Cabin
Teton Pointe
Cabin on the Creek
Black Beauty
The Mossy Fox Inn
Home on Historic Linn Ranch
Resorts near Yellowstone
Amidst the untamed wilderness, where geysers erupt, and ancient wildlife roams free, your Yellowstone elopement will be a memorable chapter in your love story's tapestry. As you prepare to get married amidst the grandeur of Yellowstone, I'm here to guide you through the process and to capture the raw, authentic moments of your special day as your personal storyteller. Let's embark on this extraordinary journey together, bringing the magic and wonder of Yellowstone to your special day(s).
Ready to Plan Your Yellowstone Elopement?
Yellowstone National Park is an awe-inspiring destination that offers the perfect setting for couples wanting to elope in the heart of nature. Choose to exchange vows before geysers, waterfalls, mountains, or panoramic views; Yellowstone has something to offer everyone. If you’re ready to start planning your Yellowstone elopement, hit contact below, and let's get started on your dream!
