10 Breathtaking Places to Elope in the Grand Tetons

Looking to elope in one of the most picturesque destinations in the United States? Look no further than the Grand Tetons. With its towering peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and stunning vistas, this national park provides the perfect backdrop for your special day. But with so many beautiful locations to choose from, where do you start? In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you through the best places to elope in the Grand Tetons, complete with stunning photos and detailed information on permits and regulations for each location. Whether you're dreaming of an intimate ceremony on the shores of a secluded lake or exchanging vows against the backdrop of the majestic Tetons, we've got you covered. So, let's dive in and start planning your dream elopement!

 
bride groom standing apart in field near tree looking at each other. Golden hour sunset over the mountains in background.
 

Before we share our list of top 10 Breathtaking Places to Elope in the Grand Tetons, it’s important to understand the difference between the permits issued by Grand Teton National Park.

Permits are only needed for the ceremony itself, and not for taking portraits in the park. You can hold your wedding outside of the park and enter the park for portraits without any type of permit. You can also hold your ceremony at one location in the park, and still have portraits taken at multiple locations in the park, including locations where ceremony permits are not issued.

In Grand Teton National Park, there are two types of permits available for holding ceremonies for elopements and intimate weddings: Reserved Site-Specific Ceremony Permits and Small Dispersed Ceremony Permits.

Here is a brief explanation of the difference between the two:

Reserved Site-Specific Ceremony Permit

A pre-approved, Reserved Site-Specific Ceremony Permits is required for any ceremony that is held in a designated location within the park. These locations include sites such as Schwabacher's Landing, or the Colter Bay Swim Beach. This type of permit is necessary for ceremonies that will take place in more popular or frequently visited areas of the park. The permit ensures that the ceremony will not interfere with other park visitors and that the location will be non-exclusively reserved for your ceremony.

Other important information to know about Reserved Site-Specific Ceremony Permits is that they’re limited to two hours maximum, and that only one ceremony permit is issued per date, per location with a maximum of 60 ceremonies per year per location. So, if you have your eye on a Reserved Site-Specific Ceremony location, it’s best to apply early before permits sale out.

Small Dispersed Ceremony Permit

A Small Dispersed Ceremony Permit is required for any elopement ceremony that is not held in a designated location within the park. This type of permit is suitable for those who want to hold their ceremony in a more remote or less frequently visited area of the park. The permit allows the ceremony to take place at a chosen location within the park, as long as it complies with park regulations and does not interfere with other park visitors.

Small Dispersed Ceremonies are limited to one-hour.

In general, Small Dispersed Ceremony Permits are less restrictive and offer more flexibility in terms of location, while Pre-Approved Location Ceremony Permits offer a guaranteed location and may have more specific regulations and requirements.  

However, for preservation of natural resources, Small Dispersed Ceremony Permits in Grand Teton National Park only allow up to 12 people, including the wedding party, officiant, photographers, and any guests. While the Reserved Site-Specific Ceremony Permits provide the opportunity for intimate wedding ceremonies with an allowed number of participants ranging from 25-40 depending on the location.  

Whichever permit you choose, there is a non-refundable application fee of $200. Make sure to carefully read and follow all current park regulations and guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable ceremony for everyone involved. You can apply for a permit here.

 
bride chasing groom across road. Road leads directly into snow capped Grand Teton mountains.
 

After understanding the different types of permits available, it's time to start exploring the best locations for an unforgettable elopement in the Grand Tetons. With so many stunning views and picturesque spots, it can be challenging to choose just one location. From the tranquil waters of glacier-fed lakes to the iconic views of the Snake River, the Grand Tetons offer a variety of options for a stunning elopement ceremony. In this post, we have compiled a list of 10 Breathtaking Places to Elope in the Grand Tetons, including the features and characteristics of each spot, so you can choose the perfect location that speaks to your heart.

1.Schwabacher Landing

 
bride groom walking holding hands next to river. Mountains in background reflecting in river.
 

Schwabacher Landing is a picturesque location in Grand Teton National Park that offers a stunning view of the Teton Range reflected in the Snake River. The landing features a serene stretch of water that reflects the beauty of the mountains and provides a peaceful and romantic setting for an elopement or intimate wedding ceremony. The surrounding landscape is breathtaking, with rolling hills, sagebrush, and a variety of wildlife, including moose and beavers. The area is also adorned with wildflowers and cottonwood trees that provide a beautiful backdrop for a wedding. With its natural beauty and peaceful ambiance, Schwabacher Landing is an ideal location for couples looking to exchange vows in a serene and romantic setting.

This iconic spot is arguably the most popular elopement location in Grand Teton National Park, so just be aware that it can get crowded, especially during peak season. And since ceremony permits do not allow permit holders exclusive access, there will undoubtably be other visitors, including wildlife photographers, at the landing during peak times for lighting.

Permit type required: Reserved Site-Specific Ceremony Permit

Group size: Limited to 25 people (including vendors)

Our experience: While we agree that Schwabacher Landing is a breathtaking location, for couples seeking more privacy, this isn’t the spot. Groups are not permitted to block trails, and even with a permit, there is no guarantee that you’ll be able to hold your ceremony in the main clearings or with the famed Schwabacher Landing backdrop you’ve seen in photos. Since wildlife photographers and other visitors crowd this iconic viewpoint, most couples are forced to have their ceremonies off to the side.

Even if you don’t have your ceremony here, you can still come here for portraits or a private first look without a permit for this location.

Time of day: This location is breathtaking any time of day. During morning, midday or later afternoon, more detail can be seen on the mountains. During sunset, the light is dreamy and glows, but the mountains are more silhouetted. It all depends on what you prefer.

2. Taggart Lake

 
bride groom standing on rock by mountain lake at sunset
 

Taggart Lake is a stunning alpine lake located in Grand Teton National Park. It's a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike, with its crystal-clear water and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. One of the great things about Taggart Lake is that it's easily accessible, with a well-maintained trail that leads directly to the lake. The hike is about 3.5 miles round-trip and is considered moderate in difficulty, making it a great option for couples who want to have a short but scenic hike during their elopement.

Taggart Lake can get crowded during peak season, which is typically from mid-June to mid-September. It's best to plan your ceremony during off-peak times or on weekdays to avoid crowds. Additionally, it's important to note that there are no facilities at Taggart Lake, so couples should plan accordingly and bring everything they need for their ceremony.

Permit type required: Small Dispersed Ceremony Permit

Group size: Limited to 12 people (including vendors)

Our Experience: Even if a couple decides to have their ceremony elsewhere, this is one of our favorite locations to take our clients for portraits. The trail to Taggart Lake leads through aspen groves, an evergreen forest and meadows with unobstructed views of the Teton Range. There are so many lovely locations to stop and get photos along the way.

As if the trail wasn’t beautiful enough, the lake view takes our breath away every time we visit.

Time of day: This location is perfect about 2 hours before sunset. By this time, 1) most people have left for the day, and 2) the closer you are to the mountains, the earlier in the day golden hour happens.

Since Taggart Lake sits at the base of mountains, golden hour (think dreamy light) happens early. This means that we can watch the sun sit behind the peaks from the banks of the lake; and as we hike back from the lake, the changing perspective allows us to see the sun again and experience golden hour all the way to the parking lot.

See photos from a June Taggart Lake Elopement here.

3. Snake River Overlook

 
Bride Groom Kissing Outside Summer With Mountains in Background Green Suit
 

Snake River Overlook is a stunning elopement and intimate wedding ceremony location in Grand Teton National Park that offers breathtaking views of the Snake River and the Teton mountain range. This location was made famous by Ansel Adams' iconic photograph, "Snake River Overlook, Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming," which is considered to be one of the most iconic landscape photographs of all time.

The Snake River Overlook is located along the main park road and is easily accessible for wedding parties. The overlook offers a wide-open view of the Snake River, with the Teton mountain range towering in the background. This location is particularly popular at sunrise, as the first light of the day illuminates the peaks of the mountains, creating a truly magical atmosphere. However, this location can also be crowded at sunrise and is a popular spot for photographers and tourists alike.

To avoid the crowds, consider having your ceremony at a different time of day, such as late afternoon or early evening. This can also provide a different light and atmosphere, as the sun sets behind the mountains. The Snake River Overlook can also be a beautiful location during the fall, as the changing leaves provide a stunning backdrop for your ceremony.

Overall, Snake River Overlook is a truly stunning location that offers a dramatic and unforgettable backdrop for your wedding ceremony.

Permit type required: Reserved Site-Specific Ceremony Permits

Group size: limited to 25 people (including vendors)

Our Experience: A lot of trees have grown up here since Ansel Adams took his famed shot, therefore, the view of the Snake River is obstructed. However, this location truly surprised us with its beauty for an elopement. While the main area with its paved walkways and walls is ideal for intimate wedding ceremonies, tiny groups, can hold a ceremony off to the side of the main parking area for a quieter and more intimate experience.

Time of day: This location is breathtaking any time of day. However early evening or sunset is our favorite.

See a Snake River Overlook wedding here.

4. Oxbow Bend

 
Bride Groom Standing Snake River Mountains Sage Brush Sunset
 

If you're looking for a spot with a view of Mount Moran, Oxbow Bend is a great option. This meandering bend in the Snake River offers stunning reflections of the mountains and a peaceful, secluded spot for a ceremony.

Oxbow Bend is a stunning location in Grand Teton National Park that is popular for photography due to its breathtaking views of the Tetons reflected in the still waters of the Snake River. It is located approximately 16 miles north of Jackson and can be accessed via the scenic Teton Park Road.

The ceremony location at Oxbow Bend is typically held on a small dirt road pullout on the east side of the river. This location offers unobstructed views of Mount Moran, as well as a peaceful and serene environment for couples looking to exchange their vows in a natural setting.

One thing to keep in mind when considering Oxbow Bend as a ceremony location is that it can be quite popular with tourists and photographers, especially between the hours of 10-5 during peak season. It is best to plan the ceremony for either early morning or late afternoon/early evening to avoid crowds and capture the best light.

The view is especially stunning during sunrise and sunset when the mountains are bathed in soft, warm light. The Snake River meandering through the foreground adds to the beauty of the scene, making it a popular spot for photography and nature watching.

Permit type required: Small Dispersed Ceremony Permit

Group size: Limited to 12 people (including vendors)

Our Experience: Oxbow Bend is breathtaking and one of our favorite locations in the park to take couples for portraits. It’s easily assessable from the road, but space is very limited. We recommend this location for couple’s eloping with no guests or perhaps 2-4 people.

Time of day: Golden hour, 1-1.5 hours before sunset.

5. Glacier View Turnout

 
Sunsetting behind Teton mountains with rays beaming over the foreground

Not an actual photo of Glacier View Turnout, but similar in that the full range is shown.

 

Glacier View Turnout is another breathtaking elopement location in Grand Teton National Park. Located just off of Teton Park Road, this turnout offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the full Teton Range, including Mount Moran, Grand Teton, and Middle Teton. The turnout is easily accessible and has a large paved area for the ceremony. However, couples can also venture off the pavement onto a small dirt path that leads to an overlook for a more intimate ceremony location. Even though it’s one of the most popular viewpoints in the park, Glacier View Turnout’s wide-open, unobstructed space has enough room for everyone, allowing wedding parties to distance themselves from other visitors.

Glacier View Turnout sits on a hillside overlooking the valley, offering a breathtaking view of the sage fields and the mountains in the distance. The view is particularly impressive during sunrise and sunset when the sky is painted with a spectrum of colors, making it an ideal spot for romantic and intimate elopement ceremonies. The area is surrounded by wildflowers and sage brush, adding a touch of natural beauty to the landscape. With its expansive views and natural beauty, Glacier View Turnout is a top choice for couples looking for a picturesque and dynamic elopement location in Grand Teton National Park.

Permit type required: Reserved Site-Specific Ceremony Permits

Group size: Limited to 25 people (including vendors)

Our Experience: We’re still waiting to photograph an elopement here, and honestly wonder why this location isn’t more popular for intimate weddings and elopements. It provides an expansive and quintessential view of the full Teton range.

Time of day: This location is particularly breathtaking during golden hour and sunset.

6. Colter Bay

 
woman with long blonde hair looking at man lake mountains with snow
 

Colter Bay is a picturesque area located in the northern part of Grand Teton National Park, with stunning views of the Teton Range and the serene waters of Jackson Lake. It is a popular spot for camping, fishing, and water activities, as well as hiking and wildlife viewing.

As a ceremony location, Colter Bay offers a few different options. There is a Reserved Site-Specific Ceremony location at the swim beach, but there are also several smaller, more intimate locations along the lake shore that can be used for smaller dispersed ceremonies.

Colter Bay is a stunning location in Grand Teton National Park, perfect for those looking to elope in a place of incredible natural beauty. The reflections of the Teton Range on the serene waters of Jackson Lake provide an incredibly picturesque setting for couples to exchange their vows. The changing colors of the sky during sunset only enhance the beauty of this location. The area is also teeming with wildlife, including elk, moose, bears, and coyotes, adding to the wild and natural feel of the location. Overall, Colter Bay is a breathtakingly beautiful location for an elopement ceremony that will leave a lasting impression on you and your partner.

Permit type required: Reserved Site-Specific Ceremony Permit (for swim beach), or Small Dispersed Ceremony Permit (for locations requiring moderate hiking)

Group size: Limited to 40 people (including vendors) for RSSCP, or 12 for SDCP

Our Experience: After experiencing the dreamiest blue hour here with a couple for their engagements, we’ve been longing to come back with an elopement couple. We know of a gorgeous, remote pebble beach with an unobstructed view of the Tetons rising from Jackson Lake. Early June is a stunning time of year for this location due to the still-snow covered mountains, and high water levels of the lake.

Another great aspect of this location is that you can book lodging accommodation at Colter Bay Village so you can stay nearby; this is ideal for sunrise portraits on the lake.

Time of day: This location is particularly breathtaking during golden hour and blue hour (after the sun has dipped below the peaks).

7. Mormon Row

 
Silhouette of bride and groom looking toward mountains. Sunset with vibrant pink sky.
 

Mormon Row is a historic district in Grand Teton National Park that offers stunning views of the Teton Range and an iconic collection of old barns and homesteads.

There are a few things to keep in mind if you are considering using Mormon Row as a ceremony location. First, the area is a popular spot for photography, so it can get busy with other visitors and photographers. Second, it is important to be respectful of the historic buildings and not disturb any of the structures or artifacts.

If you do choose to have a ceremony at Mormon Row, there are a two separate Reserved Site-Specific Ceremony locations that you can apply for—Morman Row North and Morman Row South. Morman Row North is the most iconic and provides the best views for photography.

Permit type required: Reserved Site-Specific Ceremony Permit

Group size: Limited to 40 people (north) or 25 people (south)

Our Experience: Morman Row North is a stunning location, with ample space to accommodate your group without being crowded by other visitors. In September and October, there is also a chance to see wild bison herds grazing in the fields behind the iconic barn.

Time of day: Later afternoon, evening and sunset.

8. Delta Lake

 
Bride standing on Rock Turquoise Blue Water Glacier Lake with Mountain Peak in Backdrop
Bride and Groom Standing On Rock in Blue Lake With Mountains in Background
 

Delta Lake is a stunning alpine lake nestled in the Teton Range, accessible via a challenging hike that takes you through picturesque forests, meadows, and a few boulder fields. The trailhead begins at Lupine Meadows and is just over 9 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of around 2,300 feet. Despite the demanding trek, the breathtaking beauty of Delta Lake and the surrounding mountains make it a popular destination for adventure-seeking couples looking for a unique and memorable elopement location. The milky blue, turquoise lake sit right at the base of the Grand Teton and is fed by the Delta glacier, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring backdrop for exchanging vows. With towering granite peaks and the sound of rushing water, Delta Lake offers a truly wild and romantic setting for an adventure elopement.

Disclaimer: The Delta Lake Trail is a strenuous hike that requires a high level of physical fitness, endurance, and proper hiking gear. The ascent is roughly 4.5 miles with an elevation gain of 2,300 feet, which means hikers should be prepared for a very steep climb. The trail is also rocky and can be slippery, so proper hiking shoes with good traction are necessary. In addition, the hike includes a river crossings and multiple boulder fields that require some climbing, so hikers should have experience with these types of terrain. It's important to note that the hike to Delta Lake is not recommended for beginners or those who are not in good physical condition.

Permit type required: Permit not currently required. Delta Lake is located outside of the Grand Teton National Park boundary in Bridger-Teton National Forest. Permits are not currently required for small elopement ceremonies, but regulations are subject to change and can be checked here.

Group size: To practice Leave No Trace, limit group size in this backcountry site.

Our Experience: Delta Lake is worth the effort for couples seeking an adventurous elopement experience due to its stunning natural beauty and seclusion. The hike itself is a challenging but rewarding journey through the Grand Tetons backcountry, offering unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Once you reach the lake, you'll be rewarded with vibrant waters, towering cliffs, and a sense of tranquility that can only be found in such a remote and wild location. For couples who value adventure and are willing to put in the effort to experience something truly unique, Delta Lake is an ideal elopement destination.

Couples can stay safe on a Delta Lake hike by following some safety tips. Firstly, they should ensure they have the appropriate gear, including sturdy hiking shoes, sufficient water and food, and extra clothing in case of changing weather conditions. Secondly, they should stay on the trail and avoid taking shortcuts or wandering off the trail, as this can lead to getting lost or injured. Thirdly, they should pay attention to their surroundings, including any wildlife or hazards on the trail, and be prepared to react appropriately. Fourthly, they should hike during daylight hours and avoid hiking in bad weather or at night. Finally, carrying bear spray is highly recommended on any hikes in bear country, including the Delta Lake hike. It's also a good idea to make noise as you hike to alert bears of your presence and to hike in a group if possible.

Time of day: Delta Lake is beautiful at anytime of day. It’s the closest you can get to the Grand Teton without actually summiting it, and because of this close proximity it looks incredible in photos no matter when they’re taken. Later afternoon is stunning because, like Taggart Lake, golden hour occurs early on. Just give yourself enough time for the challenging return hike during daylight hours.

See Delta Lake elopement photos here.

9. The Wedding Tree

 
Elopement Wedding Ceremony with Bride Groom and Dogs Under a Tree at Sunset With Mountains in the Background
 

The Wedding Tree, located in Bridger-Teton National Forest, is a unique and stunning location for an elopement ceremony. The tree is a massive, ancient evergreen that stands alone in an open, hilltop meadow with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. The Wedding Tree is an ideal location for those seeking a more rustic and secluded experience, with the added benefit of easy access from the main road. As the sun sets behind the mountains, the golden light filters through the branches of the tree, casting a warm glow on the ceremony. The natural beauty of the tree and its surroundings creates an intimate and romantic atmosphere that is sure to make any elopement unforgettable.

As The Wedding Tree is located in Bridger-Teton National Forest, it has different rules and regulations compared to Grand Teton National Park. One notable difference is that pets are allowed on-leash in the forest, which makes this location a great option for couples who want to include their furry friends in their special day. Additionally, the dispersed ceremony permit for The Wedding Tree allows for up to 100 people, which is a lot larger than the maximum allowed at most ceremony locations within Grand Teton National Park. This makes it a great option for couples who have a bigger guest list or want to include more friends and family in their celebration.

Permit type required: Permit required, detailed information can be found here.

Group size: While The Wedding Tree site in Bridger-Teton National Forest permits large groups with more than 100 guests, there are some logistical considerations to keep in mind. The site can only accommodate up to 6 cars, so additional vehicles will have to park at the overflow lot, which may be far from the site. As a result, a shuttle service may be necessary. You may even want to consider a shuttle service with a pick-up location in Jackson. Please note that parking on the roadside, grass, or other vegetation is not allowed to preserve the natural beauty of the area.

Our Experience: Accessible year-round with 4-wheel drive, The Wedding Tree is a stunning location in every season. Summer offers picturesque backdrops of vibrant yellow wildflowers while fall offers a breathtaking display of golden aspen leaves. However, it’s worth noting that from August to October, there’s a high risk of wildfire smoke obstructing the views of the mountains, especially from The Wedding Tree location, which is a bit far from the Teton range. Even if you can see the mountains subtly with the naked eye, the Tetons might not show up in your photos due to how portraits are exposed for people.

June is our favorite month to visit the Tetons, as the tourist season hasn't fully ramped up yet, making it a quieter time to visit. Additionally, spring wildflowers are blooming, and the rivers and lakes are full from snow melt, providing a stunning backdrop. Lastly, the mountains are still beautifully capped in white, making for a truly magical experience.

Time of day: We advise against scheduling an afternoon ceremony between May and September, as the light will be directly overhead, causing deep shadows on your eyes and washed-out colors in your photos. Early morning and sunset is best. Having captured numerous elopements at The Wedding Tree, we can attest that the best time for photography is at the end of the day. As the sun sets, the beauty of this location is enhanced by the interplay of light and shadow. The colors of the mountains, trees, and sky merge together to create a stunning backdrop that will make your elopement feel like a fairy tale.

10. Table Mountain Via Grand Targhee

Table Mountain, located on the backside of the Tetons within the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, offers a unique perspective of the iconic mountain range. Situated at an elevation of 11,111 feet, Table Mountain is accessible via the Grand Targhee Resort scenic chairlift ride and a then a hike, providing a thrilling experience and stunning views along the way. You can also do the strenuous 10.7 roundtrip hike to the top of Table Mountain without the chairlift.

The elopement ceremony spot at Table Mountain is a large, rocky area with expansive views, making it an ideal location for an intimate and picturesque elopement. The surrounding mountains, valleys, and above tree line views create a natural backdrop that's impossible to replicate anywhere else.

The Table Mountain hike from the top of the Dreamcatcher Chairlift at Grand Targhee Resort is approximately 3 miles each way. It takes around 3-4 hours to complete the hike, depending on your fitness level and pace. The hike is considered to be moderate in difficulty with a steep and rocky terrain, with exposed ridges and cliffs.

Overall, if you're looking for a unique and breathtaking elopement spot in the Grand Tetons, Table Mountain and Grand Targhee Resort is definitely worth considering.

Permit type required: You can learn more about Grand Targhee’s wedding packages here. However, since Table Mountain is located in the National Forest outside of the resort, no permit or payment is needed for an elopement (expect for a lift ticket if you’d rather not hike to the top).

Group size: We recommend small groups no larger than 15 people; but as this is a moderately difficult hike, guests should be in good physical condition.

Our Experience: The Table Mountain hike is a beautiful and remote location for an elopement. Located on the backside of the Grand Tetons, the hike to the summit of Table Mountain is a challenging but rewarding adventure. The trail starts at the Grand Targhee Resort and climbs steeply up a ridge across rocky terrain.

Once you reach the summit, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, including the Grand Teton itself. The hike is remote and offers a sense of seclusion and intimacy, perfect for a private and romantic elopement.

Overall, the Table Mountain hike is a unique and unforgettable location for an elopement, offering stunning views and a sense of adventure and seclusion that is hard to find elsewhere.

We recommend taking the scenic chairlift up Fred’s Mountain and hiking to Table Mountain via the Bannock Trail. On the return, rather than taking the steep climb back up to the scenic chairlift, we suggest just hiking all the way back down. It’s a little longer, but not as demanding.

Time of day: The summer hours for the Dreamcatcher Chairlift at Grand Targhee Resort are typically from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Mid-June to Mid-September. However, it's always a good idea to check the resort's website or call ahead to confirm the exact hours of operation, as they may vary based on weather or other factors. For optimal lighting, we recommend the earliest time, or taking the last lift to the top for an evening elopement and returning by hiking back down the mountain.


LEAVE NO TRACE: Grand Teton Edition

Now that we've explored these 10 Breathtaking Places to Elope in the Grand Tetons area, it's important to talk about the Leave No Trace principles. These principles are designed to help protect and preserve the natural beauty of the area, ensuring that it remains pristine for generations to come. As visitors to this stunning wilderness, it's our responsibility to minimize our impact on the environment and leave it just as we found it. Let's take a closer look at these principles and how we can apply them during your elopement.

Leave No Trace is a set of principles that are designed to help people minimize their impact on the environment when they visit natural areas such as Grand Teton National Park and public lands. Here are some tips for practicing Leave No Trace during an elopement:

  1. Plan ahead and prepare: Before your elopement, research the park's current regulations and guidelines for weddings and ceremonies. Choose a ceremony location that is designated or that has a low impact on the environment. Bring all necessary equipment and supplies with you, such as water, food, and trash bags.

  2. Travel on durable surfaces: Stick to established trails and sites to avoid damaging fragile ecosystems. Avoid walking on vegetation, especially in wet or marshy areas, as this can damage the plants and soil. Use designated parking areas or pull-offs to minimize damage to roadside vegetation.

  3. Dispose of waste properly: Pack out all trash and litter, including cigarette butts, food scraps, and other items. Do not bury or burn anything, as this can damage the soil and contribute to pollution. If you need to relieve yourself, use a restroom or designated toilet or pack out your waste using a human waste disposal bag.

  4. Leave what you find: Do not disturb or remove any natural or cultural resources, including rocks, plants, artifacts, or other items. Take only photographs and memories with you when you leave. Additionally, scattering, spreading, or throwing of any materials, such as confetti, rice, or flower petals, should also be avoided to prevent littering and disrupting the natural ecosystem.

  5. Respect wildlife: Observe wildlife from a distance and do not approach or feed them. Keep all food and scented items properly stored in your vehicle or a bear box to avoid attracting animals. Do not disrupt or interfere with wildlife behaviors, especially during mating or nesting seasons.

  6. Geotagging: Instead of geotag specific locations on social media, use a more general tag like “The Grand Tetons” or “Wyoming.” This can help to protect the natural beauty of the park and encourage visitors to explore and discover their own special places without overcrowding or overburdening any one particular area. Geotagging specific locations can lead to increased foot traffic and impact on sensitive areas, as more people may be inclined to visit and potentially damage the area. This can also lead to overcrowding and loss of natural beauty.

  7. Do not move or rearrange park facilities: Guests should avoid rearranging or moving park facilities, such as picnic tables, fire rings, or benches. These facilities are placed in specific locations for a reason, often to protect sensitive areas or to maintain a healthy ecosystem. Moving them could cause damage to the environment and wildlife habitat. If you find that the facilities are not where you need them, consider using a portable option, such as a camping stove or folding chairs, instead. Remember, it's important to leave the park in the same condition as you found it so that future visitors can enjoy it too.

  8. Flowers: Couples are welcome to bring bouquets to their elopement ceremony. However, it's important to ensure that the bouquets do not contain any plant species that are designated as Noxious Weeds by the State of Wyoming or listed as Declared Species by Teton County. For instance, Baby’s Breath is an example of a prohibited species.

By following these principles, you can help preserve the natural beauty and ecological health of Grand Teton National Park. Remember, it is our responsibility to leave the park better than we found it, so that future generations can enjoy the same wonders we have.


This post highlights the beauty and unique opportunities of eloping in the Grand Tetons. It includes a list of the top 10 incredible elopement locations in the area, with detailed descriptions and photos, as well as important information about Leave No Trace principles to ensure the preservation of the natural environment. Whether you're looking for a scenic hike, a stunning overlook, or a remote mountain setting, there's a location for every couple's dream elopement. We are experts in capturing the beauty and intimacy of elopements in the Grand Teton area and we would be honored to be a part of your special day.

View our Jackson Hole Wedding info here to learn about our packages and favorite vendors. Contact us here to discuss your elopement photography needs and let's capture your love story in this breathtaking setting!

Woman in wedding dress spinning away from camera looking at river  and mountains at golden hour
couple in formal wear standing on rock in lake kissing. Bright sun shining behind them with mountain canyon in background
groom kissing bride's hand by river in front of mountains at sunset