January 23, 2025

Bryan Terschan

Hiking Wedding and Elopement Guide: Plan the Ultimate Adventure

Hiking Wedding and Elopement Guide

Hiking elopement with a mountain backdrop

If you are anything like me, you are someone who feels most alive out on a hiking trail, adventuring in the woods, or maybe you just love the outdoors. If so, a hiking wedding or elopement may have crossed your mind at some point. Or maybe you have no idea what I’m talking about, but the idea of a traditional wedding might make you want to cringe. Sound like you? Then you are in the right place my friend!

A hiking wedding or adventure elopement is so much more than a wedding day—it’s an adventure that’s all about you and your love story. It’s time in the great outdoors, with your favorite person, doing your favorite things on your wedding day. Sounds awesome right?

That’s because it is and they are my absolute favorite type of weddings to photograph. However, I don’t want you to be unprepared for your own hiking wedding, which is why I created this guide to help you every step of the way – literally and figuratively.

A Hiking Elopement Photographer to Guide You

Hi, I’m Bryan, a full-time elopement photographer who lives, hikes, and works in the mountains of the world. Seriously, I’ve logged over 1200 miles of hiking so I know a thing or two about trails. You can borrow from my years of experience as a hiker, outdoor enthusiast, and adventure elopement photographer specializing in hiking weddings.

I’ve helped dozens of couples like you plan and photograph their hiking elopements, so this guide comes from real experience, not just research. My hiking wedding guide below will give you everything you need to plan a stress-free, safe, authentic, and incredible hiking wedding. Let’s dive right in!

What is a hiking wedding?

Simply put, it’s about exchanging vows in the heart of nature—on a mountaintop, by a waterfall, or deep in the woods—with no distractions, no pressure, and no big audience. Hiking elopements typically involve the two of you as a couple (maybe a few guests) hiking to an epic location to exchange your vows or have a ceremony, and then hiking back down. Afterwards, you can head to another location for more exploring or have a post elopement celebration. It’s not just about where you go; it’s about the journey, your connection, and the memories you make along the way. Read more about what an elopement is.

Why choose a hiking wedding?

Opting for a hiking elopement means choosing freedom. You get to ditch the stress of organizing a big traditional wedding and concentrate on what truly matters: celebrating your love in a way that feels right and enjoying the outdoors together.  

Here’s why you might love a hiking elopement:

  • Super customizable: You can make the day completely about you.  From the trail you select to the vows you write, everything reflects your story and your bond.
  • Breathtaking Sceneries: Forget ballrooms and dining halls.  Your ceremony backdrop is a masterwork painted by nature herself, whether it’s a sunrise over the mountains or a peaceful forest glowing in the moonlight.  
  • Time to Actually Be Together: With no crowds or rigid timetables, you can be fully present with one another on your wedding day. It’s a day to connect, laugh, and absorb every instant without distractions. 
  • For the Adventurous at Heart: If you enjoy the great outdoors, this is the best way to incorporate that passion into your wedding day.  Hiking elopements are perfect for couples who want their nuptials to demonstrate their audacious spirits.
Couple hiking through the woods on their wedding day

Choosing the perfect trail for your hiking wedding

So you might be wondering, what makes a good trail for a hiking wedding? Well, you can really make it whatever you want: anything from a 0.5 mile hike, to a full day 10 mile hike, or even a multi-day backpacking trip if you are feeling crazy adventurous! Any of these would qualify as a good hiking elopement trail, but there are a few things you should consider when choosing your trail and ceremony.

Mobility/Accessibility

When picking a trail for your elopement hike, think about what everyone who’s coming can actually do physically, including yourself and any guests you invite.  If you just want a nice, chill day maybe go for something short and easy.  But if you’re feeling adventurous and want more of a challenge, find something tougher. If some of your guests or you have limited mobility or just want to take it easy, look for trails without too many steep parts or that have nice viewpoints that are easy to access.  That way you still get the incredible scenery without as much effort.

Crowds/privacy

Choosing a trail with fewer crowds is the key to getting that private and intimate feel on your wedding day. Popular spots tend to be busy, especially during peak seasons or midday hours, which could lead to waiting for a private moment or sharing the space with others. To avoid this, consider choosing less-popular trails, eloping on a weekday, visiting during the off or shoulder season, or aim for ultimate privacy, choose a sunrise hiking elopement! It’s your day and you deserve the space to focus on each other.

Eloping couple hiking up the mountain with their dog

Hiking Experience

I have done hiking elopements with just about every type of couple when it comes to hiking experience level. And your experience level matters when picking the right trail. If you’re seasoned hikers, you might love the challenge of a longer or steeper trail. But if hiking isn’t something you do often, a shorter, beginner-friendly trail is a great choice and can still make for a really memorable day. You want to enjoy the hike without feeling overwhelmed or exhausted before you even reach the ceremony spot. Remember, it’s not about how tough the hike is—it’s about creating a day that feels joyful and true to you. 

And don’t forget that hauling around wedding stuff like clothes, gear, or even just a bouquet could make the hike harder so keep that in mind. As a general rule of thumb, I would allow about 1 hour per mile of hiking. Yes, you may hike faster than this when you go for recreational hikes, but on your wedding day you want to have enough time to take it all in.

Here are my recommended max wedding day hike distances for different experience levels:

  • Beginner (not much or any hiking experience): 1 – 2 miles
  • Novice (some hiking experience): 2-3 miles
  • Avid (good bit of hiking, something you usually do for fun): 4-5 miles
  • Advanced (you live for the ultimate adventure and are up for the challenge): 10 miles

Proximity to lodging

After an unforgettable day of hiking and celebrating, having a nearby place to relax is a must. Look for trails that are close to accommodations that match your style, whether that’s a cozy mountain cabin, a charming tiny home, or even a campsite if you’re all about the outdoors. Having lodging nearby allows for less travel time on your day and more time for getting ready moments, a first look, or post hike elopement celebrations with you and your guests.

Elevation Gain

Elevation gain is one of the parts about hiking elopements that I see couples underestimate. Sure, a trail might be only 1.5 miles, but if it includes 750 feet of elevation gain in that distance, it is going to be a tough trail! Elevation affects not only the difficulty of the trail but also how you’ll feel throughout the day. A higher climb can reward you with stunning views but may leave you more winded—especially if you’re not used to hiking at altitude or carrying extra gear. Think about your energy levels and how much you want to exert yourself so you can fully enjoy the ceremony and the hike back down.

Couple hiking through the woods on their wedding day

Permits/Regulations

Permits

If you’re planning to elope in a National Park, National Forest, State Park, or on land management land, chances are you’ll need a special use permit for your ceremony. Most of these permits are simple to get and just require a quick form where you share details like the time and location of your wedding, how many people will be there, and how many cars you’ll have. They also come with a fee, usually around $100-$200, which is a pretty sweet deal when you think about the incredible outdoor venue you’re getting for your big day. Keep in mind, there might be guest limits to protect the space.

Regulations – eloping with pets

I get it, your fur-baby is your best friend and you want to have it with you on your wedding day. That’s awesome! There are a few things to keep in mind though. First, National Parks don’t usually allow for any pets on the trail, but National Forests do and there is usually one nearby most National Parks. Second, your furry friend will likely be required to be on a leash at all times. Finally, consider the logistics of eloping with your pets that could add time or gear you need to pack.

Weather

Weather is one of the biggest factors for outdoor elopements. Consider the type of weather that you would be comfortable in wedding attire and Check the forecast and typical conditions for your chosen location. This way, you can prepare accordingly with layers, sturdy shoes, and backup plans. Rain, snow, or even extreme heat can impact your day, so having a flexible mindset and some weatherproof gear can make all the difference. Pro tip: Embrace the elements—it often makes for amazing moments and photos!

Lighting

Lighting can completely transform the vibe of your elopement. The golden hours—just after sunrise or before sunset—are perfect for creating a dreamy, romantic atmosphere in your photos. Midday light can create a bright and airy feel, but can be harsh and less flattering, especially on trails with lots of open spaces and not many trees. The best thing to do, get a photographer that specializes in hiking elopements (that’s me!!). As an expert, I will help you plan for the best light to match your vibes and create some breathtaking photos.

Not sure what trail would be best for your elopement? I help all my couples find the perfect spot that matches their vision.

Eloping couple snuggling on top of the mountain

Best Hiking Elopement Destinations

One of the best parts about choosing a hiking elopement is that the world becomes your ceremony backdrop. As someone who lives at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the USA, and someone who has hiked all over the world, here are my top hiking elopement destinations:

United States Hiking Elopement Locations

The United States has an incredible amount of hiking and varied landscapes! There is seriously something for everyone looking to have an outdoor hiking wedding!

East Coast

  • North Georgia – Waterfalls, sweeping overlooks, and quiet mountain trails along the Appalachian Trail.
  • Western North Carolina – The Blue Ridge Parkway and Pisgah National Forest offer endless trails and epic views.
  • Tennessee Mountains – The Smoky Mountains, Chattanooga, and hidden gems. Tennessee is a nature lovers paradise with tons of beautiful hikes.
  • Acadia National Park – Hands down, probably my favorite National Park anywhere in the USA (Yosemite might be tied). It’s such an amazing place because it is a very unique National Park. It has some epic hikes, is the first to see the sun in the USA.
  • White Mountains – The White Mountains of New Hampshire are home to some incredible views and trails. Don’t sleep on this region for your hiking elopement.

Rockies

  • Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming) – Jagged peaks and serene alpine lakes make this one of the most iconic backdrops for adventurous couples.
  • Rocky Mountains in Colorado – Endless trails with accessible overlooks or challenging summit hikes.
  • Idaho Rockies – Okay, I know what you’re thinking… Idaho? Trust me, this state is so underrated when it comes to epic views and trials. If you like to prove to everyone you know that you know the coolest places, look no further.

West Coast

  • Yosemite National Park (California) – Towering granite cliffs and hidden alpine meadows for couples craving a legendary setting. There is a reason John Muir hung out here so much.
  • Oregon & Washington – Mt. Rainier, waterfall trails, rugged coastlines, and the dramatic peaks of the Cascades. These two states are always at the top of any hiker’s list for good reason.
  • Sedona, Arizona – Not really the West Coast, but close enough! The red rocks of Sedona are truly incredible year round and make for some dramatic wedding photos.

Hawaii (Kuai Specifically) + Alaska

  • Kuai – Volcano views, lush jungle trails, and coastal cliffs make this island one of the most unique places to elope. Literally looks like scene from Jurassic Park!
  • Alaska – Alaska is one of the most rugged states in the entire U.S. Home to eight, yes 8, National Parks this is a state you don’t wont to miss for an adventure wedding.

Worldwide Hiking Elopement Locations

Dolomites (Italy)

Dramatic limestone peaks and rolling meadows that feel straight out of a fairytale. Plus, if you’ve ever wanted to hike any part of the Alta Via 1, you can do it on your wedding day!

Norway

Fjords, cliffs, and otherworldly hiking routes that will take your breath away. And as a little bonus, Northern Lights anyone?

Patagonia (Chile & Argentina)

Wild, raw, and remote, Patagonia is perfect for couples who want the ultimate adventure.

Iceland

Waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches just steps from stunning hiking trails. There is a reason it is a trending travel location every year. And because the sun stays up so long in the summer you can have an incredibly long adventure if you wish!

Madeira

Located off the coast of Portugal, this is basically the European version of Kaui in the United States. A little more rugged, and whole lot of insane hikes that make for a perfect wedding backdrop!

French Alps

What’s more romantic than Paris? The French Alps of course! Mont Blanc and tons of other amazing peaks make this underrated portion of the European Alps a hiker’s paradise.

Scotland

The Isle of Skye is famous for its rugged interior, coastal cliffs, and tons of miles of hiking trails. There’s a reason this is one of the most popular destinations in Scotland each summer.

Peru (Machu Picchu)

Hike the Inca Trail or one of the lesser-known routes to exchange vows overlooking one of the world’s most iconic wonders.

New Zealand (Kepler Track)

Alpine ridgelines, glacier-carved valleys, and pristine lakes along one of New Zealand’s most stunning Great Walks.

See a location that catches your eye or did it inspire you to think of another epic hiking location for your elopement?

What to Wear and Bring To Your Hiking Wedding

Choosing attire and packing for a hiking wedding is quite a bit different than packing for a traditional wedding at a venue. Don’t worry, I have all the tips and tricks for what to wear and pack.

Hiking Wedding Dress

When it comes to choosing a hiking wedding dress, it is important that the dress is lightweight and you can move around comfortably. This is because you want to be able to navigate over roots and rocks without having too many parts of the dress that will snag. And your body temperature rises significantly while hiking, and a lightweight wedding dress can prevent you from getting too hot. However, if you are hiking in a colder climate, I would recommend wearing a lightweight dress still, but adding some thermal layers underneath to keep you warm. And you could add a fun jacket on top if you want!

I also recommend leggings or shorts underneath the hiking wedding dress because then you can hike up the dress as necessary while you are on the trail. Now, if you are not hiking up in your dress, this opens up your options for different styles of dresses, but I would still recommend something that you can move around in easily. And wearing wool leggings or yoga pants underneath your dress will help you stay warm in those cold conditions. And pro tip, you can even have your base layer match your skin color so you won’t notice it in photos!

Finally, your dress will get dirty. This is something that you need to embrace if you are going to do a hiking elopement! A dirty dress just means you had an awesome wedding day! After the wedding you can take it to a dry cleaner to get properly cleaned, no problem!

Eloping couple looks out at the sunset

Hiking Wedding Suits

When you’re picking a suit for your hiking wedding, think about the weather first. If you’re eloping somewhere warm, go for something lightweight and breathable so you don’t overheat. For colder weather, you’ve got more options, so pick a fabric that’ll keep you warm, but still look great. Make sure to move around when you’re trying it on—bend, stretch, even squat if you need to—so you know it’s comfortable for hiking. And remember, even if it’s cold, hiking can warm you up fast. You’ll probably want to take off the jacket while you’re on the trail. As far as color goes, I recommend neutral colors or earthy colors that will match your environment!

Hiking groom in his suit

Footwear

Comfort and practicality matter most when choosing shoes for a hiking elopement. Hiking boots under a wedding dress create a fun vibe! Two good options exist: wear hiking boots all day or bring “nicer” shoes for the ceremony. Hiking boots suit the whole day ‒ no worries about rough paths or uneven ground, plus you’ll stay comfy while exploring. If you are dreaming of a fancier look during vows, pack flat, sturdy shoes suitable for outdoors ‒ avoid heels! These will be easier to walk in and keep you stable on the ground. Whichever option you choose, break in the footwear beforehand to avoid blisters or discomfort. Your feet will thank you!

Here are some of my favorite hiking shoe brands for weddings:

Hiking shoes under wedding attire

Accessories

When choosing accessories for a hiking elopement, less often means more. The trail isn’t suitable for heavy jewelry or many extras ‒ they might get in the way or even disappear. Choose meaningful simple pieces that won’t take attention away from the adventure. For colder elopements think about wearing layers like a stylish jacket, shawl or blanket wrap. Cozy flannels along with sleek leather jackets plus soft knits match your look while keeping you warm. These layers add personality and create some very special photos too.

Keep choices practical and true to your style so focus stays on the moment ‒ not your gear. Oh, and I am always in favor of keeping your Garmin or Apple watch on – got to get those steps!! You could even consider a nicer band for it!

Garmin Nice Bands

Apple Watch Nice Bands

Hiking Elopement Essential Gear Checklist

When it comes to packing for a hiking elopement, you want to prepare to keep yourself comfortable and safe on your wedding day, without weighing yourself down with unnecessary gear. It’s important to consider what you might want to have with you if things go wrong, but keep in mind that an overly heavy pack can hinder your enjoyment on the trail. I have a pretty exhaustive list here and I have another blog that fully goes into depth about what to pack and packing tips for your elopement.

Wedding Attire + Accessories

  • Dress(es)
  • Suit(s)
  • Tie(s) or bowtie(s)
  • Jewelry – rings, necklaces, earrings, etc.
  • Ceremony shoes
  • Veil
  • Hats/Beanies
  • Cufflinks
  • Boutonnieres

Hiking Attire

  • Hiking shorts/pants (if changing at top)
  • Wool socks + extra socks
  • Hiking boots
  • Hat/gloves/scarf if it’s chilly
  • Under layers for warmth (smartwool is great)
  • Outerwear – rain jacket, fleece, windbreaker, etc.

Ceremony Items

  • Vows/Vow Books
  • Rings/Ring Boxes
  • Marriage Certificate
  • Any items for special traditions included in ceremony
  • Flowers/Boquet
  • Pen
  • Any Permits

Adventure Gear + Emergency Kit

  • Hiking backpack (good ones: )
  • Maps or downloaded maps
  • Sunglasses or Glasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Bug spray
  • Water bottle + extra water
  • Snacks (trail mix, clif bars, dried fruit, etc.)
  • Any meals you’re going to have
  • Headlamps/flashlights (I always have 2 headlamps with me)
  • Parking pass (or park pass)
  • Toilet paper and WAG bags (if no restroom, see leave no trace)
  • Trekking Poles
  • Doggy bags, a leash, treats, & a portable water bowl if you’re bringing your dog(s)
  • First Aid Kit (I have one too)Wedding Emergency Kit that can include:
    • Tide To Go pen
    • Antibiotic Cream 
    • Advil, dramamine, etc.
    • Antihistamine 
    • Ginger Chews
    • Eye Drops
    • Bandaids, blister gels, moleskins
    • Hand Sanitizer
    • Hand Warmers/Toe Warmers
    • Superglue
    • Tissues
    • Lint Roller
    • Multitool with wine bottle opener
    • Chapstick
    • Bobby pins
    • Safety pins
    • Sewing kit
    • Deodorant
    • Lipstick/lip balm
    • Double sided fashion tape
    • Tampons
    • Tweezers
    • Scissors
    • Mints
    • Hairspray
    • Nail file
    • Hairbrush/comb
    • Small mirror
    • Dry Shampoo
    • Caffeine (espresso shots, etc.)
    • Electrolytes (powder, nuun tablets)
    • Rope

Miscellaneous Items

  • Perfume or Cologne
  • Makeup and Hair Supplies if doing your own
  • Garment bags
  • Champagne or sparkling water for celebration
  • Plastic champagne flutes
  • Tissues
  • Speaker for music if playing any

Of course, you don’t have to pack everything on these lists for your hiking elopement, but it is a good place to start. And of course, I always carry my own emergency kit and gear in case you forgot anything on your wedding day!

This is just the start of how I help you be prepared for your own hiking elopement! I make sure every couple I work with has a customized packing list just for them!

Hiking elopement ceremony as a couple holds hands

Hiking Wedding Planning Tips and Tricks

Now that we know what a hiking elopement is, how to choose a hike, what to wear, and what to bring, it’s time to discuss my top hiking elopement tips and tricks to help your day be smooth and stress-free.

Pick the Right Time of Year

The seasons can change everything depending on the location. Whether that is how many trails are actually open, road closures, weather, or how the scenery looks, make sure you consider the season.

Download Offline Maps and Trail Routes Ahead Of Time

A lot of locations that you would have a hiking elopement don’t have the best cell service, so I cannot stress this enough!

Test your gear ahead of time

Break in your hiking boots and test your backpack with the weight you’ll carry on the day to avoid surprises or discomfort.

Tell your guests and any vendors about the hike

This is the best way to have everyone prepared an on the same page before your wedding day

Plan out if you will pack or wear your wedding attire on the hike

Pro tip, for longer hikes I usually recommend hiking in normal clothes and changing in your wedding attire at the top. For shorter hikes, you can get away with wearing wedding attire if you follow the tips from earlier.

If you are hiking with dogs, know the restrictions

Know the restrictions for dogs at your chosen location and if you are hiking with dogs, make sure you bring food, water, and doggy bags for them.

Incorporate some extra time into your wedding timeline

I don’t care how fast you normally hike, you need to budget at least 1 hour per mile for the hike. This allows you to take in the scenery more on your wedding day and gives time for any unforeseen delays.

Have at least one backup location

Having one predetermined backup location or hike can help relieve the stress of what might happen if your first choice is closed for some reason.

Bring a small “just in case” kit

Include extra shoe laces, safety pins, and stain remover wipes for any last-minute fixes.

Hiking elopement couple looks out at the sunset

Staying Safe and Respecting Nature

Staying Safe For Your Hiking Elopement

A good plan plus proper preparation leads to a safe hiking elopement. First off pack the basics listed above: lots of water, snacks next to a first aid kit – you really need these items. The trail might seem simple, but extra supplies prove helpful in a pinch.

Take time to study the weather report beforehand and expect some changes. Pack a light rain jacket or poncho if rain might occur. Add hand warmers when cold temps show up in the forecast. Wear multiple layers to adapt to temperature changes, which matters most for early morning or evening hikes. Apply sunscreen plus bug spray because a nasty sunburn or pesky insects can ruin your special moments!

Let someone reliable know about your plans. Give them info about your trail, schedule as well as your return time. For areas with no cell service bring a satellite communicator or personal locator beacon – just to be safe.

Finally, know your limits. Hiking on your wedding day should feel fun, not stressful. Take breaks when you need them, stay hydrated, and don’t be afraid to adjust your plans if something doesn’t feel right. It’s your day, and staying safe means you can fully enjoy every moment.

How To Leave No Trace On Your Hiking Elopement

Something I am big on with my couples is making sure that we leave no trace when doing a hiking wedding. What exactly does that mean? 

Leaving no trace on your hiking elopement means respecting the beautiful place you’ve chosen to get married so it stays just as magical for others—and for nature itself. It’s about packing out everything you pack in, staying on marked trails to avoid damaging plants, and not leaving behind anything, even decorations or flowers. Keep your distance from wildlife, don’t feed them, and try to avoid things like confetti on your elopement. Basically, leave the spot looking like you were never there, so the only thing left behind is the love you shared on your special day.

You can find all the principles of Leave No Trace on the Leave No Trace Organization’s website.

Adding Your Personal Touch

I’m all about making your hiking wedding feel like the most “you” day ever. Here are the best ways to make your hiking wedding experience unique and memorable. If you want more ideas, take a look at my blog featuring How To Make An Elopement Special and Unique

Writing your own vows – My wife and I wrote our own vows and it was honestly one of the best decisions that we made for our wedding! Personal wedding vows add a very special touch to your hiking elopement as well as lets you share your beautiful love story exactly as you want. Read all my tips about writing your own vows.

Hiking eloping couple reading their own vows and laughing

Bring your furry friends to be part of your celebration – Of course you are the star of your wedding day, but the Best Dog is obviously the main character and they know! If your dog means something to you, make sure to include them in your day.

Hiking eloping couple kisses their dog in his best dog attire

Have your first look at the top of the mountain – If you are doing a hiking elopement, you might choose to hike up the mountain in hiking attire and then change into your wedding attire when you get to your destination or summit. Then you can have your first look in an epic spot! This is a great option if you are doing a sunrise elopement and it has been dark out until this point.

Bride taps on her groom's shoulder during their wedding day

Celebrate with your favorite trail snack or drink – If you want to pop champagne, of course do that! But if you have a favorite beer, soda, or other drink that means something to your relationship, maybe cheers with that. Or make some coffee at the top if that is a big part of your relationship!

Eloping couple sharing a shot of liquor at the top of the mountain

Take unique blue hour photos (like at this beach elopement) – Blue hour is the hour right after sunset, and it is often when the sky is the most colorful and can make for some incredibly unique wedding photos. And you could even stay past blue hour and stargaze.

Eloping couple with lanterns looking out into the distance

Hiking Wedding Example Itineraries

You have made it this far, so now it’s time to put it all together. You have chosen to have a hiking wedding, so your timeline might not look like a wedding timeline you have seen before. Here are a few samples of what your timeline could look like. But remember, with a hiking elopement anything is possible!

All-Day Sunrise Hiking Elopement With Family (10 Hr)

Your elopement day can include an adventure with just the two of you and time with family as well. Start your day with a hike at sunrise before reuniting with your family for a ceremony and delicious meal together. 

4:00 am – Meet at the trailhead and gear up for your hike

4:15 am – Begin your hike in the dark (2 mile hike)

5:45 am – Arrive at your first look location, change into your wedding attire.

6:30 am – Sunrise first look, followed by exploring and portraits 

9:00 am – Begin hike back to the trailhead, taking portraits along the way

10:30 am – Arrive back at the trailhead and head back to ceremony overlook 

(30 min drive)

11:00 am – Arrive at ceremony location

11:30 am – Ceremony

12:00 pm – Family Photos

12:30 pm – Head to lodging for brunch/lunch

1:00 pm – Brunch/Lunch Celebration with Family

2:00 pm – Brunch Ends

Family celebration toasting champagne after an elopement

Half-Day Elopement with a small adventure (6 Hr)

2:00 pm – Getting ready at the cabin

3:30 pm – Drive to the trailhead

4:00 pm – Start the hike to your ceremony spot

5:30 pm – Exchange vows at the summit

6:00 pm – Celebrate with a meal at the top

7:00 pm – Hike back down

8:00 pm – Wine and campfire back at the cabin

By no means are these timelines the only two ways that you can elope. They are simply here to help jump start some ideas for you. And don’t worry, I am going to help you every step of the way to get to a timeline that you love!

Capturing Your Day

Imagine This On Your Wedding Day

Imagine your wedding day starts in nature with crisp fresh air and a sunrise above the mountains. You share a peaceful moment with your partner next to vast landscapes – away from noise that comes with regular weddings. No stress or hasty schedules exist; you just know this day celebrates your love in your own real way. You step into raw wilderness hand in hand to start a remarkable adventure that’s about your path together along with the vows you’ll share.

You both reach that perfect location – surrounded by magnificent mountain views. A deep peace fills you because you realize this spot fits perfectly. No one disturbs you. The crowd stays away. A sacred quiet moment connects you to your most beloved person. Your vows flow with pure feelings as you look into each other’s eyes. And as I capture those moments, you feel entirely at ease, like a friend is taking photos of you—not some distant photographer, but someone who’s dedicated to making you feel comfortable, beautiful, and truly you in every shot. The images reflect not just how you look, but how deeply connected you are and how wild and free this moment is. You’re not posing, you’re not playing a part—you’re just living your love story, captured in all its raw, authentic beauty. 

Now that sounds pretty great right?

Why You Need A Hiking Elopement Photographer

Hiking elopements are different from traditional weddings. You need someone who knows how to handle both a camera and the outdoors. That’s where I come in.

Hi, I’m Bryan, a Hiking Elopement Specialist.

Elopement Photographer stands on top of a mountain smiling
Hiking elopement photographer stands on top of a high overlook

With thousands of miles hiked, and years capturing couples in epic places, the planning process becomes easier and less daunting, as I handle the details and logistics, taking the weight off your shoulders. 

Without someone who knows the ins and outs of hiking elopements, you might end up at a crowded trail, or worse, one that’s too difficult or not quite what you envisioned. I’ll guide you to the perfect location – peaceful, accessible, and just right for your adventure experience – so you can focus on staying in the moment, not the stress of planning.

With me leading the way, you’ll finally be able to let go of the noise and expectations of others, and instead, embrace an experience that feels authentic, personal, and entirely yours.
If this feels like the kind of wedding you’ve been dreaming about, let’s make it happen. Reach out, and let’s start planning the best day of your life!

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