Terschan Photography

August 6, 2025

Bryan Terschan

Chattanooga Elopement: A Comprehensive Guide

A Guide To Chattanooga Elopements

If you’re dreaming of an elopement in the Southeast that blends stunning mountain views, quiet forest trails, and quirky city charm, a Chattanooga elopement might be for you. Tucked between the Appalachian Mountains and the Tennessee River, Chattanooga is a hidden gem for couples who want to ditch the traditional wedding and embrace something more intentional, more adventurous, and a whole lot more “you.” It is one of my favorite places in the Southeast for elopements and outdoor adventures!

From legal details and permits to the most breathtaking outdoor spots and places to celebrate afterward, I created this guide to walk you through everything you need to know about eloping in Chattanooga. Whether you’re elopement includes mountaintop vows, a waterfall backdrop, or a cozy cabin getaway along the Tennessee River, Chattanooga has something for everyone. Let’s dive in and start planning your Chattanooga elopement!

Why Chattanooga Is Great For Elopements

Chattanooga is one of those rare cities that has a rugged outdoor feel and also a cozy small town vibe. Within 30 minutes of downtown, you’ve there are some stunning hikes, waterfalls tucked away in forest canyons, and endless trails for your ceremony, portraits, or just some quiet time together. And don’t even get me started on how many cool Airbnbs or cabins there are in the area for time with your loved ones after your ceremony or getting ready together!

There’s something especially appealing about how accessible it all is. For all my Southeast couples, you don’t need to fly to the other side of the country to get nature that feels untouched. And the weather? Pretty mild most of the year. Whether you’re into climbing, kayaking, or just being surrounded by trees and rocks, this place makes it easy to feel connected to nature and each other – making it the perfect backdrop for your elopement.

How to Elope in Chattanooga (Tennessee and Georgia Rules)

Because Chattanooga sits right near the Georgia border, you can legally elope in either Tennessee or Georgia, depending on where your ceremony takes place. Here’s what you need to know for both:

Tennessee Elopement Rules:

  • No witnesses required
  • No waiting period
  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • You’ll need to apply in person at a County Clerk’s Office in the county you are getting married (Hamilton County if you’re staying local)
  • Bring a valid photo IDs and about $100 for the license, about $60 with premarital counseling course

Georgia Elopement Rules (for nearby spots like Cloudland Canyon or Lookout Mountain):

  • Also no witnesses required
  • No waiting period
  • Both parties need to apply in person with photo ID
  • The fee is around $60 without premarital counseling, or $16 with
  • If you’re not a Georgia resident, you must apply in the county where you’re getting married

All regular ministers, preachers, pastors, priests, rabbis and other religious leaders of every religious belief can legally marry you in Tennessee or Georgia. Additionally, you can have a Mayor or Judge, County Clerks, or even a Notary Public can legally solemnize your marriage. Online ordained ministers are legally allowed to marry you in Tennessee or Georgia. Therefore, an ordained family member or friend could perform the ceremony. You can read more about eloping in Georgia in my Georgia Elopement Guide.

Best Time of Year to Elope in Chattanooga

Chattanooga is beautiful year-round, and each season brings its own unique vibe to your elopement day. Here’s a seasonal breakdown to help you choose what feels most like you and plus why early winter might just be the secret sweet spot.

Spring (March–May)

Waterfalls are at their peak, wildflowers start to pop, and temperatures are mild and breezy. This season is ideal for hiking, waterfalls, and long portrait sessions. It’s a refreshing time to elope before summer heat and crowds arrive.

Summer (June–August)

Expect heat and humidity, especially in July and August. But if you’re early risers, sunrise elopements in the summer are chef’s kiss! Cooler temps, golden light, and fewer people on the trails.

Fall (September–Early November)

This is prime time in the Chattanooga area, and it’s easy to see why. Crisp mountain air, bold foliage colors, and cozy vibes make it one of the most popular seasons for elopements. It can get busy at key overlooks, so planning a weekday ceremony can help keep things intimate.

Early Winter (Mid-November–Mid-December)

This is one of my favorite times of year to photograph elopements in Chattanooga. By mid-November, the fall crowds have died down, but the weather is still mild, often in the 50s and 60s. The trees are barer, which means better views from mountain trails, and the atmosphere feels calm and reflective. There’s a sense of stillness and solitude that makes it easier to slow down and really feel your day. If you’re after intimacy, intention, and a little golden late-autumn light, this is your season.

Winter (Late December–February)

The city quiets down even more, and you’ll have trails practically to yourselves. While it’s the coldest season, the weather here isn’t extreme. Think cozy jackets, moody skies, and possibly a dusting of frost at higher elevations – perfect for couples who love that raw, wintery aesthetic without needing snowshoes.

Best Chattanooga Elopement Locations

These spots are perfect for couples who want their day to feel grounded in nature, surrounded by views that take your breath away. Whether you’re into easy-access overlooks or more adventurous hikes, these locations let you trade a traditional venue for something wilder and more meaningful to you!

Sunset Rock

Located on Lookout Mountain, Sunset Rock is a short, scenic hike that ends with jaw-dropping views of the Tennessee River Valley. Despite the name, it’s actually one of the best places to catch sunrise because it faces east. The morning light hits the cliffs just right. It’s ideal for couples who want a low-effort, high-reward location for their vows. If you want to skip the long trek, but still have a mountaintop moment, this one’s for you. Pro tip: the nearby Ropers Rock offers direct views of the sunset.

Great for: Sunrise or sunset ceremonies, short hikes, and couples who want iconic Chattanooga views without a big climb.

Snooper’s Rock

Tucked into Prentice Cooper State Forest, Snooper’s Rock is a true local gem. It feels remote and wild, but it’s easy to get to with a short hike or drive depending on the season and road conditions. The view is massive and overlooks the bend in the Tennessee River. If you’re into wide open views and quiet moments, this spot offers the kind of peace and intimacy that makes your elopement feel like it’s just the two of you and the world.

Great for: Couples looking for a secluded, adventurous location with incredible views and peace.

Cloudland Canyon State Park

Technically across the border in Georgia, but less than an hour from downtown Chattanooga, Cloudland Canyon is one of the most scenic and versatile elopement spots around. With mossy trails, dramatic waterfalls, and canyon overlooks that go on for days, this park offers a little bit of everything. Whether you’re exchanging vows next to the roaring Cherokee falls or having a ceremony with friends and family overlooking the main canyon, this place makes it easy to create a day that’s equal parts adventure and intimacy.

Want to see what a full elopement here looks like? Check out my Cloudland Canyon Elopement Guide for tips, photos, and ideas.

Great for: Waterfall lovers, hiking couples, and anyone dreaming of a full-day adventure with varied landscapes.

Lula Lake Land Trust

Lula Lake is one of the most exclusive and underrated outdoor spots near Chattanooga. It features everything you’d want in a nature-forward elopement: wooded trails, dramatic waterfalls, and a bluff overlook that feels like it was made for an intimate ceremony. My personal favorite on this list! Only a few photographers are aloud to photograph on Lula Lake Land Trust, but lucky for you I’m one of them! Since it’s managed by a nonprofit, you will need to make a donation to the trust to have your elopement here, but the solitude and scenery make it 100% worth it! You can practically have the entire place to yourselves if you avoid eloping on one of the open-gate days.

Curious about how to elope here? My Lula Lake Elopement Guide breaks down everything you need to know.

Great for: Couples who want a mix of forest, falls, and bluff views and want the ultimate amount of privacy. Bonus, your elopement budget will be going straight to preserve the land you are eloping on!

Savage Gulf State Park

A little more off-the-beaten-path, Savage Gulf is one of Tennessee’s newest and most rugged state parks. It features dramatic cliffs, deep gorges, and wild landscapes that feel untouched. This park is perfect for couples who want a bigger hiking experience and maybe even a full-day or backpacking elopement. It’s for those couples who aren’t afraid to get their boots dirty and their dress dirtier. It’s less crowded than other parks, which means more space to slow down, connect, and take it all in.

Great for: Adventurous hikers, backpacking elopements, and couples craving a raw, remote feel with showstopping views.

If you want some fun portraits in the city, downtown Chattanooga also offers fun photo backdrops like the Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge or Bluff View Art District. Both are great for an urban moment before or after your ceremony. Especially if you are going to celebrate at one of the downtown restaurants afterwards!

Best Chattanooga Elopement and Intimate Wedding Venues

If you love the idea of being surrounded by nature but want the ease and structure of a venue, these small wedding spaces strike that perfect balance. You still get the views, fresh air, and peaceful atmosphere, but with built-in logistics and options for guest comfort. These venues are ideal for couples who want a more grounded, intentional celebration without the pressure of planning everything themselves.

Hemlock Falls

Hemlock Falls is a secluded mountain cabin venue nestled on eight private wooded acres, just 25 miles from Chattanooga and overlooking Fiery Gizzard Gorge. This venue is built for elopements and intimate weddings. It’s the kind of place that feels like your own secret forest escape, but with the convenience and structure you want on your elopement day. The property includes a rustic log cabin honeymoon suite, two waterfalls within walking distance of the bluff ceremony overlook, and clear views across Tennessee’s ridge lines. It’s one of the most nature-immersed elopement and micro-wedding venues in the Chattanooga area.

Great for: Waterfall lovers, outdoorsy couples, and anyone who wants the privacy of a wild location with the perks of a private venue.

The Venue at the Bluffs

The Venue at the Bluffs offers that rare combo of mountaintop views and total seclusion. Nestled high above the Tennessee River Gorge, the ceremony spot feels like you’re standing at the edge of the world (in the best way). The space is peaceful, dramatic, and perfect for couples who want their vows to feel intimate and awe-inspiring. There’s also a covered pavilion and cozy indoor cabin space if weather rolls in or you want to host a meal afterward.

Great for: Couples who want a mountaintop feel without hiking boots. Beautiful views, easy access, and plenty of flexibility.

Oakleaf Cottage

Oakleaf Cottage is basically the definition of forest fairytale meets intentional hospitality. Located on Lookout Mountain, this venue is tucked away in the woods with mossy paths, climbing ivy, and cozy indoor spaces that feel like a modern cabin retreat. The team here really understands elopements and small weddings, and they’ve designed the space to be welcoming, peaceful, and tailored to couples who want meaning over extravagance. You can hold your ceremony outside beneath the trees and follow it up with a candlelit dinner inside the cottage.

Great for: Boho-loving, intentional couples who want nature + comfort + a venue that fully supports their vision.

Howe Farms – The Woodlands

While Howe Farms is known for its larger, more traditional wedding spaces, The Woodlands is a refreshing outlier. This space is tucked deep into the property’s wooded section, giving it an entirely different feel. Think towering trees, a quiet clearing for your ceremony, and just enough structure to make your day seamless without overcomplicating it. It’s a solid option if you’re inviting a few guests and still want that outdoorsy, no-fuss vibe with some practical amenities built in.

Great for: Couples who want a woodsy elopement with the ease of a venue team handling the logistics behind the scenes and maybe have a few more guests for their intimate wedding.

Where to Stay in and Around Chattanooga

Whether you’re staying just the two of you or inviting a few guests, you’ve got great options for your home base in and around Chattanooga. Here is a good list to get you started:

  • Treetop Hideaways at Ruby Falls: Romantic treehouses with luxury vibes, right on Lookout Mountain.
  • The Dwell Hotel: Boutique and funky, and located in downtown Chattanooga, its perfect if you want something stylish and walkable.
  • Cloudland Canyon Cabins: If you’re eloping in the park, these cabins are affordable and steps from the trails.
  • Airbnbs in Signal Mountain or Lookout Mountain: Tons of great homes with views, hot tubs, firepits and quiet surroundings that make for perfect getting-ready spots and post elopement celebrations.
  • Wanderchatt Cabins: These cabins come in container, A-frame, or treehouse style and are a fantastic way to start and end your elopement with an aesthetic look. And they make a romantic day-after stay too!

Chattanooga In-Town Celebration Recommendations

If you want to celebrate after your elopement with a meal, drinks, or both, here are some local gems and some of my personal favorites:

Chattanooga Elopement Photographer

If this guide helped you get excited about eloping in Chattanooga, I’d be honored to help make it happen for you. I’m Bryan, a Georgia-based elopement photographer who lives for helping couples plan a day that feels adventurous, intentional, and so them.

From navigating permits to scouting the best light on the trail, I help couples feel at home in wild places and actually enjoy their wedding day without all the pressure. You can check out my elopement and intimate wedding packages, or reach out to start planning your Chattanooga elopement today!

Contact Me About Your Chattanooga Elopement

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