How to Choose the Best Elopement Location for You

Choosing where to elope is one of the most meaningful decisions you’ll make—and it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming.

We’re here to support you every step of the way so your day reflects your values, helps you feel present, and is filled with joy from start to finish.

Don’t Just Pick a Pretty Place

It’s easy to get swept up in dreamy photos or popular spots trending on social media—but your elopement deserves more than that.

Instead, ask:

  • Does this place hold meaning for us already?
    Maybe it’s where you had your first road trip or a landscape that’s always inspired you.
  • Is it a bucket list destination?
    If you’ve always dreamed of standing on a glacier, hiking through red rock canyons, or saying vows on a quiet beach—you should go for it. Life is too short not to live it to the fullest, especially, on your wedding day.
  • Can you come back here?
    Eloping in a location you can return to for anniversaries or future trips turning your wedding day into a lifelong tradition – truly one of the coolest aspects of an elopement.

Important Questions to Ask Yourself before Committing to a Location:

As you narrow down your elopement location, here are a few key things to consider:

Guest Count:

If you are bringing guests along can your location handle the foot traffic + gathering? Following Leave No Trace on your wedding day is so important.

Permits and access:

Are there any legal or seasonal restrictions to be aware of? For example, some locations in the mountains aren’t accessible early October to June!

Privacy Level:

Do you want total seclusion or are you okay with some foot traffic?

Experience:

Can this location give you the type of adventure you’re envisioning? (hiking, stargazing, canoeing, etc.)

You Don’t Have to Decide Alone

This is what we’re here for.

We’ll walk with you through the process, help you weigh your options, and recommend stunning, meaningful places that match your vision. Every step of the way, you’ll feel

  • Supported in decision-making
  • Grounded in what matters most
  • Free to be present with each other
  • Confident that your day reflects your values, not someone else’s idea of what it should be

Our top 20 Elopement Locations

This list isn’t pulled from travel blogs or social media trends—it’s built from experience.

These are the places that have taken our breath away, where we’ve witnessed our couples exchange vows in unforgettable ways.

They reflect the kind of adventures we love most: climbing, hiking, star-gazing, but also places we can just nestle-in together.

Whether it’s because of the landscape, the solitude, or the level of core-memories we know can be made there, these are our top elopement locations—chosen from the heart, with you in mind.

Click on the location you want to get to know better or scroll through all the epic destinations!

states

Alaska Arizona CAlifornia Colorado Oregon Utah Washington

Countries

Iceland Italy New Zealand Norway Switzerland

Alaska Elopement Locations

Palmer, Alaska

June to early September

Fly into Anchorage, drive 1 hour northeast

Cold plunge, take a heli ride, paddle in glacier pools, hike, backpack, off road

Towering peaks, braided rivers, vibrant tundra, and cinematic wilderness

For remote Alaska, this is pretty accessible! From epic tours to friendly accessible hikes you will not get bored here. Truly though, we can not get enough of the Knik Glacier.  

More on Eloping Here

Seward, Alaska

Late June–August

Fly into Anchorage, drive 2.5 hours on scenic Seward Highway

Boat tours to glaciers, hike coastal trails, sea kayak, helicopter tours and glacier overview hikes

Fjords, glaciers, deep blue waters—coastal wilderness full of wonder

Honestly going to Seward feels like going back in time and to a place where nothing else exists. Just you, the mountains, the sea and wildlife. From rugged epic adventures to simple time on the coast. Also one of our favorite Alaskan stays is nestled here – ask us about it!

Is this the spot!?

Arizona Elopement Locations

Sedona, Arizona

October–May

Fly into Phoenix, drive 2 hours north

Hike, off road, climb and dine

Rust-red cliffs, desert flora, clear starry skies—spiritually charged and grounding

This is where Adventure and Vow blossomed into what it is today. We have captured over 100 elopements in this little desert town. This elopement location is very family friendly, easy to pair elopement with a traditional wedding. Easy to get to and easy to kick off your honeymoon from here. Most of the elopement locations do not require much hiking to access.

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Page, Arizona

March–May or October–November

Fly into Page or Flagstaff, drive 2–4 hours

Slot canyon tours, hike, paddle board, rent a house boat, off roading, star gazing, camping

Sandstone slot canyons, desert lakes, golden cliffs—sunlit and sacred

We always say you just have to know Page to really appreciate it and lucky you – we really know it! It is easy to find privacy, awe inspiring landscapes and easy to create memorable experiences. It also is next door to Kanab and Vermillion Cliffs which are equally beautiful.

More on Eloping Here

California Elopement Locations

Eastern Sierras, California

Mid May to early June, October

Fly into Reno or Mammoth Lakes

Soak in the hot springs, rock climb, backpack, camp, fly fish, boulder, hike, star gaze, ski in Mammoth

Alpine lakes, granite cliffs, beautiful high desert—California’s quieter alpine gem

We really have our past couples to thank for bringing us to this remarkable adventure mecca. We love the climbing and views in Alabama Hills, we love the hikes you can access from Lone Pine and the endless mountain views. Some of the best views from camp sites I have ever seen are here. The hot springs are definitely a relaxing and romantic way to start or end your elopement day. 

Yosemite National Park

Late May to Early June (When the waterfalls are flowing it is a magical land!), but good year round.

Fly into Fresno, Sacramento, or San Francisco; drive 2–4 hours

Hike, backpack, climb, boulder, rafter the river, star gaze

Towering granite walls, cascading waterfalls, giant sequoias, and starry skies

This is one of the few National Parks that really have fantastic approved ceremony locations that can accommodate guests and the permit process is easy. You can do big adventures here or simply sight see and get an equal experience. This is an iconic, classic National Park worth going.

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Joshua Tree National Park

October–April

Fly into Palm Springs, drive 1 hour

Rock climb, hike, off road, camp and stargaze

Massive boulders, ancient Joshua trees, desert pastels—stillness and soul

Joshua Tree has been a huge part of Bill’s climbing journey. We have  had endless nights camping under the stars, off roading to peaks to watch sunset. This is also another National park that has some pretty great ceremony spots that you can bring guests along! We don’t think this park is for everyone, but depending on the day you are looking for it could be just right!!  

More on Eloping Here

Colorado Elopement Locations

Ouray, Colorado

July–September

Fly into Montrose, drive 1 hour

Off-road alpine loops, hot springs, hike to alpine lakes, climb, hike, via ferratas

Jagged peaks, alpine basins, waterfalls—wild, high-country romance

When those aspen trees are vibrantly yellow man it is stunning!! Easy access for the non-hikers to enjoy the mountains by off roading! We were shocked when we realized how much privacy you could find in these stunning mountains. Did we mention – Telluride is Ouray’s neighbor??? Win, win.

Is this the spot!?

Oregon Elopement Locations

Oregon Coast

May–October

Fly into Portland, drive 1.5–3 hours

Explore the tidepools, surf, hike, camp, fish, eat ice cream from the Tillamook factory (Yes, worth it), fire on the coast

Windswept coastlines, mossy trees, crashing waves—misty and romantic

Our personal favorites are Brookings and the Cannon Beach area. We personally visit every single year for a weekend. It is such a beautiful place to get away, relax and romanticize your life a little bit!

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Utah Elopement Locations

Moab, Utah

February–May and October– early November

Fly into Grand Junction or Salt Lake City, drive 1.5–4 hours

Visit National Parks (Arches + Canyonlands), Off Road, climb, canyoneer, river rafting, base jumping, rope swing, star-gaze, horseback ride or hike

 Incredible red rocks, natural arches, vast mesas, and starry skies

Oh man, to us this is the very best desert elopement location there is in the world. It is endless the adventures to be had here for any skill level. Very accessible family-friendly options. Easy to pair an adventure day with a traditional wedding with one of our favorite venues – Red Earth Venue. You can elope here and then kick off your Big 5 National Park honeymoon road trip!

More on Eloping Here

Washington Elopement Locations

Olympic National Park

June to early October, but good year round

Fly into Seattle, drive or ferry to Port Angeles (~2.5 hrs)

Surf, hike, backpack, climb, boat, kayak, swim

Emerald rainforests, tidepools, foggy shores, and glacier-capped peaks—very diverse.

The other really great family-friendly elopement ceremony locations with easy permits for a National Park. It truly has it all from the coast to the mountains. We often see wildlife in this park which is always exciting and for a National Park it feels private. 

Is this the spot!?

Mt. Baker National Forest

July to late September, but can be good in the Winter months for a snowy winter wonderland elopement

Fly into Seattle or Bellingham, drive 2–3 hours

Hike, backpack, visit fire towers, ski

 Jagged peaks, glacial views, mountaineering (Summit Mt Baker!) and quiet forest trails

We don’t just love it, we call it home. We love how dog friendly all of the trails are and there are trails ranging from 1 mile to 20+ miles. Really this area is the most bang for your buck when it comes to epic mountain views and effort needed to enjoy them.

Mt. Rainier National Park

July–September

Fly into Seattle, drive ~2 hours

Hike wildflower trails, ski, backpack, snowshoe in spring, summit the mountain

Glaciated volcano, subalpine meadows, waterfalls, and dreamy alpine light

We eloped here on the Wonderland trail! Outside of our deep personal connection we just can not get enough of this stunning massive mountain peak. Each time we see it for the first time each Summer season a tear comes to my eye. It looks like it is straight out of a painting. 

More on Eloping Here

San Juan Islands, Washington

May–September

Fly or ferry from Seattle

Whale watching, fire on the coast, kayaking, sea plane rides, hikes, visit a farm

 Coastal cliffs, evergreen isles, pastel sunsets—peaceful, maritime magic

If you are looking for a slower pace elopement this is the place. It feels cozy, it feels safe, it feels nostalgic. We LOVE anytime we get to take the ferry and enjoy a summer day on the island.

Is this the spot!?

Leavenworth, Washington

May through October, depending what you are looking for!

 Fly into Seattle, drive 2.5 hours

Explore Bavarian-style town, float the river, hike, backpack, climb, ride the mountain roller coaster, boulder

Alpine cliffs, pine forests, cozy charm—like a postcard in motion

We love this for those big mountain hikes! Truly the Enchantments alone will blow your socks off. When Larch season kicks off it is magical. Leavenworth is home of the big adventures.

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Iceland Elopement Locations

Iceland

June–August

Fly into Reykjavík

Ice cave tours, soak in hot springs, horseback rides, hiking, camping, off roading – honestly, it is endless!

Raw, windswept, surreal—waterfalls meet lava fields beneath ever-shifting skies

Iceland is a place you can feel in your bones, it is a place that will never leave your heart. The landscapes are awe-inspiring, so different from what we see here in the states. You can find privacy under the midnight sun and truly have a diverse elopement experience from endless incredible adventures to chill road-tripping.

More on Eloping Here

Italy Elopement Locations

Dolomites, Italy

June–September

Fly into Venice or Milan, drive 3–4 hours

Hike alpine routes, cable car rides, swim in a lake, hike from hut to hut 

Spired mountains, alpine meadows, rustic villages—dramatic and cinematic

From short hikes to long hikes – it has something for any hiker to enjoy the incredible mountain views. This has become such an elopement hot spot over the last couple of years and honestly we think for very good reason. Also, honeymoon in Italy after? I am drooling now over the pasta. 
  

New Zealand Elopement Locations

Queenstown, New Zealand

November–February  (Southern Hemisphere summer)

Fly into Queenstown directly

Wine tasting, hiking, backpacking, skiing, boating, helicopter tours, stay in hike huts, boat tours, bungee jumping, canyoneering, rafting

Emerald lakes, towering peaks, golden hills, braided rivers, lush forests

Queenstown is the adventure mecca of the world, you can elope on the outskirts of town or venture off to Mt Cook or Milford Sound. Really you can not go wrong with anything you decide to do on the South Island. Everything is truly so beautiful and there is so much fun to be had.

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Norway Elopement Locations

Norway

June–September

Fly into Oslo or Bergen

Hike, backpack, kayak, sail

Towering cliffs, epic fjords, snowy peaks—moody and majestic

To be honest, this is at the very, very top of our bucket list of places to go. Getting married under the midnight sun surrounded by the most stunning jaw-dropping view. I am not sure what there is not to love. We specifically we would recommend the Loften Islands!

Switzerland Elopement Locations

Switzerland

June–September

Fly into Zurich or Geneva, connect by train

Gondola rides, via ferratas, climb, hike, swim in alpine lakes, float in a canoe, take a heli tour

Snowy Alps, wildflower meadows, pristine lakes—classic, romantic, breathtaking

I am not sure you could go wrong here. Glacier views, stunning meadows and more. If you want to immerse in the mountains this would be top of my list.

Our Availability

October

21, 22, 27-29 in Moab, UT

November

3rd in Page + 17-24th in Sedona, Arizona

December

1st in Moab + 17-22 New Zealand

Janurary 2026

New Zealand + Patagonia

Februrary

Moab, Utah

March

8-10, 16th + 21-31 Sedona, AZ

April

6-30th in Moab, Utah

July

18-23, 30, 31 in Mt Baker WA

August

1 + 5-8 Mt Baker, 30 Palmer Alaska

September

3-6, 13, 21-26 Mt Baker

October

1-6 Leavenworth

Still not sure where to elope?

No matter if you love several locations or feel like you haven’t found one you love enough yet….We’ll help you uncover the place that feels like you. Through thoughtful conversation, personalized location suggestions, and planning support rooted in experience, we’ll guide you toward a day that reflects your values, your pace, and your connection. You don’t have to know where just yet—you just have to know you want a day that feels true to you.

We’ll take it from there.

A couple sitting close together laughing

“Right from the time we were brainstorming locations, they paid a lot of attention to what was important to us and gave us great recs. The day of our photo shoot was seamless. We had our special day of joy and the photos reflect all our emotions deeply – we loved the photos!!”

– ADITYA + NITISHA

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For more inspo, here is why each of the Adventure and Vow team members selected their elopement locations:

A person kissing their partner's cheek while they hold hands

Bill + Traci

We chose to elope in Mt Rainier National Park because:

  • It is where Bill had a moment of knowing he wanted to marry Traci.
  • It is where Traci had a lot of personal connection to.
  • It is home to the wonderland trail, which was a bucket list adventure for us.
  • It was going to provide the experience we wanted to kick start our wedding day.
  • Something that would require us to work together, something that would be a challenge, but also something that would be private, special and incredibly beautiful.
A person about to kiss their partner's cheek as their hands are on each other's waists

Malachi

Malachi and his partner choose to get share an elopement day in Olympic National Park because:

  • Perfect weather for the time of year they wanted to get married.
  • They could combine an adventure elopement in the mountains easily with a smaller intimate wedding on the coast.
  • Accessible for their guests travel.
  • A place they can keep visiting easily throughout their marriage.
  • The first place Malachi feel in love with in Washington, which is his partner’s home state