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. You can borrow from my years of experience as a hiker, outdoor enthusiast, and adventure elopement photographer specializing in hiking weddings. 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!
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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:
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 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.
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.
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 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 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.
There are so many places that you can have a hiking wedding, but these are some of my favorites:
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, and it’s located along the water. You can exchange vows on Cadillac Mountain with panoramic ocean views, stroll through vibrant autumn colors in the forest, or say “I do” by the peaceful Jordan Pond. The park offers trails for all experience levels, making it easy to find a spot that matches your vision and abilities. With its diverse scenery and relaxed vibe, Acadia is a dream destination for adventurous couples looking to have a hiking elopement.
Favorite hiking trails: Cadillac Mountain, Great Head, Bubble Hike at Jordan Pond, and Otter Cliffs
The Blue Ridge Parkway spans from the Great Smoky Mountains in North Carolina to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia and is home to some truly amazing hiking trails, waterfalls, and mountain peaks. And beyond the hikes that everyone knows, there are so many hidden gems along this famous roadway corridor. Whether you want to say your vows on top of Mount Mitchell (the highest mountain peak in the Eastern United States) ,the Raven’s Roost Overlook in Virginia, or any hidden gem in-between, this is the place for hiking elopements in the Southeast
Favorite hikes/spots: Crabtree Falls, Pinnacle Knob, Mt. Mitchell, and Raven’s Roost Overlook
Georgia doesn’t get a lot of love when it comes to hiking elopements, but it should. My home state has plenty to offer in terms of hiking trails because it is situated in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. I’ve explored just about every inch of the North Georgia Mountains and there continue to be some seriously underrated gems! The peaceful, natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains creates the perfect setting for a heartfelt and unforgettable elopement.
Favorite hikes/spots: Best Georgia Elopement Locations
Okay maybe I lied, this is also on the top of my list for National Parks, and for good reason. If you are wanting sweeping mountain views of dramatic, jagged peaks, look no further. Whether you exchange vows at the base of the iconic Teton Range or hike to a secluded spot with breathtaking views, this park offers unmatched beauty and adventure. Grand Teton National Park allows weddings with 12 guests or less to take place anywhere (as long as you have a permit), which means there are so many hikes to choose from! And as a bonus, there are so many options for activities to include in your elopement day too, such as horseback riding, stargazing, or even a boat ride.
Favorite hikes/spots: String and Leigh Lake, Cascade Canyon, Death Canyon to Phelps Lake, and Mormon Row
No hiking wedding list would be complete without Yosemite National Park. The park might be more famous for its valley, but that is just the start of its beauty. There are tons of incredible trails that explore deep into Sequoia lined forests and find sweeping views that make those in the valley seem sort of dull. Nearly every trail here can make for a beautiful wedding backdrop, and there is something for every skill level too! And just like Grand Teton, the park allows weddings with 12 or less guests to take place anywhere in the park with a permit.
Favorite hikes/spots: Taft Point, Artist’s Point, Panorama Point, and Eagle Peak
There are so many other places to have a hiking wedding and this list is just a few of my favorites to get you started. I’ll go anywhere you want for your hiking elopement, so reach out if you have somewhere in mind!
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.
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!
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!
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:
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!
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.
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!
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.
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.
A lot of locations that you would have a hiking elopement don’t have the best cell service, so I cannot stress this enough!
Break in your hiking boots and test your backpack with the weight you’ll carry on the day to avoid surprises or discomfort.
This is the best way to have everyone prepared an on the same page before your wedding day
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.
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.
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.
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.
Include extra shoe laces, safety pins, and stain remover wipes for any last-minute fixes.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
Take unique blue hour photos – 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.
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!
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
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!
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?
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.
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!