Table of Contents:
- Why Choose Grand Teton National Park for Your Elopement?
- Best Time of Year to Elope in Grand Teton
- How to Get Your Marriage License
- Top Ceremony Locations in Grand Teton National Park
- Permits & Regulations for Your Ceremony
- Eloping at The Wedding Tree in Jackson Hole
- Essential Tips for an Incredible Elopement
- How Highpoint Photography Can Support Your Day
- How to Book Your Elopement with Highpoint Photography
- Vendors for Your Grand Teton Elopement
- Where to Stay for Your Grand Teton Elopement
- Where to Dine for your Grand Teton Elopement
Why Choose Grand Teton National Park for Your Elopement or Micro Wedding?
Grand Teton National Park offers breathtaking scenery, dramatic mountain peaks, and endless natural beauty. Eloping here lets you celebrate your love in an intimate, stress-free setting, surrounded by spectacular wilderness that ensures unforgettable memories and amazing photography.
Best Time of Year for a Grand Teton National Park Wedding
As your experienced Grand Teton wedding photographers we know all of the best locations and hidden gems.
- Summer (June-August): Warm, sunny weather, blooming wildflowers, perfect for lakeside and mountain ceremonies. Evenings can be cool, bring a stoll or jacket. Starting mid-July through October the wildfire smoke can create a soft haze on the mountains.
- Fall (September-October): Gorgeous autumn colors and cooler weather ideal for scenic photographs.
- Spring (April-May): Quiet trails, budding nature, snowy peaks and cool to mild temperatures with a chance for snow.
- Winter (November-March): Snowy landscapes perfect for cozy, intimate ceremonies and adventurous couples.
Top Ceremony Locations for Your Jackson Hole Elopement and Micro Wedding
Choosing the perfect ceremony site is essential for your Grand Teton elopement experience. Whether you’re envisioning rustic charm, alpine views, or lakeside elegance, the Jackson Hole area offers beautiful venues both inside Grand Teton National Park and at nearby iconic locations.
Approved Grand Teton Wedding Ceremony Locations within Grand Teton National Park:
- Schwabacher Landing:
A quiet riverside setting, famed for stunning reflections of the Tetons. Our favorite elopement spot. - Mormon Row (North or South):
Historic Moulton barns set amid vast fields offer rustic charm and a classic Wyoming backdrop for your Jackson Hole elopement. - Colter Bay Swim Area at Jackson Lake:
Dramatic lakeside views perfect for sunset ceremonies and epic photos. - Mountain View Turnout: Offers spectacular, unobstructed views of the Teton Range, providing a simple yet stunning backdrop ideal for your Grand Teton elopement ceremony with easy accessibility for you and your guests.
- Snake River Overlook:
Iconic panoramic vistas made famous by Ansel Adams that capture the sweeping beauty of the Snake River and Teton Range. - Glacier View Turnout: With sweeping views of the towering Teton peaks and expansive meadows, Glacier View Turnout provides an effortlessly accessible ceremony location perfect for a scenic Grand Teton elopement.
Additional Popular Jackson Hole Elopement Venues:
- Chapel of the Transfiguration:
A historic chapel located inside the park, offering intimate ceremonies framed by iconic mountain views. - Chapel of the Sacred Heart: Located along the shores of Jackson Lake, offers a charming and picturesque setting for couples seeking a traditional yet scenic Grand Teton elopement.
- The Wedding Tree (Bridger-Teton National Forest):
A scenic spot offering beautiful, expansive views. This rustic outdoor venue captures the best of Jackson Hole’s natural beauty, requiring a special-use permit from the forest service. - Jackson Lake Lodge:
For couples seeking a blend of luxury and mountain scenery, Jackson Lake Lodge provides a refined setting with panoramic windows overlooking the Tetons. Ceremony locations include their stunning terrace or lawn with picturesque mountain backdrops. This is one of our favorite locations for a Grand Teton wedding and you don’t need a permit. Reach out to them directly.
How to Get Your Marriage License
Obtaining your marriage license in Wyoming is straightforward:
- Visit the Teton County Clerk’s Office in Jackson.
- Bring valid identification (passport or driver’s license).
- Pay the $30 fee.
- No waiting period required; license valid for one year.
Permits & Regulations for Your Grand Teton Wedding Ceremony
To hold your elopement ceremony or micro-wedding ceremony in Grand Teton National Park, you’ll need a Special Use Permit. There are two types of permits: Reserved Site-Specific Ceremony Permits, which are for designated, fixed locations on specific reserved dates, and Small Dispersed Ceremony Permits, which allow for flexible, intimate ceremonies in various park areas with up to 12 people.
A Grand Teton National Park permit is not required to hold a ceremony or reception at the chapels in the park or a park concession facility such as Jackson Lake Lodge. Entrance fees apply for all participants.
Reserved Site-Specific Ceremony Permits
- There are 6 Reserved site-specific ceremony locations that may be applied for:
- Colter Bay Swim Beach – Group size limit of 40 people – FULL for 2025
- Schwabacher Landing – Group size limit of 25 people – FULL for 2025
- Mormon Row (North or South) – Group size limit of 40 people (North) or 25 people (South) – FULL for 2025
- Mountain View Turnout – Group size limit of 25 people – FULL for 2025
- Glacier View Turnout – Group size limit of 25 people
- Snake River Overlook – Group size limit of 25 people
Small Dispersed Ceremony Permits
A small dispersed ceremony permit allows elopements with up to 12 people, including the wedding party and guests, in most park areas. Permits are limited to one per location per day and cannot be issued in areas that interfere with general visitor use or cause resource damage. Applicants must provide a detailed location description with coordinates or a satellite map. Certain popular or reserved sites (like areas around Jenny Lake, Hidden Falls, Inspiration Point, and several other designated locations) and areas with high visitation or potential for resource damage are prohibited. Additionally, winter conditions may affect access and parking.For Elopements of 12 people or less: Other sites may be available for elopements with 12 people or less including the photographers and officiant.
Here’s the detailed application process:
- Step 1: Go to the National Park Service website for Grand Teton
- Step 2: Fill out the online application at least 30 days before your planned ceremony date.
- Step 3: Specify your desired ceremony date, time, and select your location from the approved areas listed on the site:
- Step 4: Pay the $200 fee online with your application submission.
- Step 5: Wait for approval, typically within a few weeks, and follow any additional instructions provided.
Eloping at the Wedding Tree in Jackson Hole
The Wedding Tree is one of Jackson Hole’s most iconic elopement locations—perfect for couples looking for spectacular views without a strenuous hike. Located just outside Grand Teton National Park in Bridger-Teton National Forest, the Wedding Tree offers sweeping panoramic vistas of the Teton Range, creating a stunning backdrop for your Jackson Hole elopement.
Why Choose the Wedding Tree?
- Easily accessible from downtown Jackson Hole, just a short drive away. There are only a few parking spots so plan to carpool.
- Dramatic views of the Tetons for unforgettable photos by your Grand Teton elopement photographer.
- Ideal for intimate ceremonies and scenic portraits, especially at sunset or sunrise.
How to Get Your Permit for the Wedding Tree:
Since the Wedding Tree falls under the Bridger-Teton National Forest jurisdiction, the permitting process differs slightly from Grand Teton National Park:
Step-by-Step Permit Application:
Step 1: Contact Bridger-Teton National Forest
Reach out directly to request a Special Use Permit:
Step 2: Submit Your Application
Fill out and submit the provided application form, clearly stating:
- Ceremony date and desired time
- Number of guests attending (keep groups under 25)
- Personal contact information and event details
Step 3: Pay the Permit Fee
- Fees typically range between $150-$200.
- You’ll receive instructions on payment options (online or by check) once your application is submitted.
Step 4: Receive and Carry Your Permit
- Allow 2-3 weeks for your permit application to be reviewed and approved.
- Be sure to print and carry your permit during your Grand Teton ceremony, as you may be asked to show it on-site.
Essential Tips for Your Grand Teton Elopement
- Choose stylish comfortable clothing suited to outdoor conditions.
- Have layers in the car to adapt easily to the changing weather.
- Select shoes that you can walk on dusty trails and rocky areas. I have seen brides walk the shorter trails in high heels.
- Wear sunscreen.
- It is windy most days. Bring hairspray, a brush and touch up makeup.
- Make a playlist for the drive. Have a full tank of gas and a charged phone.
- We will be in the wide open wilderness. Bring a cooler with extra water, drinks and food.
How Highpoint Photography Can Support Your Grand Teton Wedding Photography:
Highpoint Photography ensures your elopement is seamless and stress-free by:
- Helping select the perfect ceremony site.
- Providing guidance on obtaining permits.
- Offering expert local knowledge for incredible photos.
- Ensuring a relaxed, genuine experience in front of the camera.
How to Book Your Grand Teton Elopement Photos with Highpoint Photography
Booking your Jackson Hole Wedding Photography with Highpoint Photography is easy:
- Visit our booking page: www.highpointphotography.com/contact
- Schedule a consultation to discuss your elopement vision.
- We will email you a custom booking proposal where you can book online to reserve your date
- Relax and enjoy as we help you plan a truly memorable elopement experience!
Vendors for your Grand Teton Elopement
Planning your Jackson Hole elopement involves selecting the right vendors to make your day seamless and memorable. Here’s a curated list of local professionals who can enhance your Grand Teton elopement experience:
Planners:
- Destination Jackson Hole: Specializes in organizing bespoke elopements and weddings, ensuring every detail aligns with your vision.
- Event Planners of Jackson Hole: Offers comprehensive planning services to make your elopement seamless and memorable.
- Wild Rose JH: Specializes in personalized elopement and wedding planning, effortlessly handling details to ensure your Jackson Hole elopement is relaxed, beautiful, and unforgettable.
- Grand Teton Events: Grand Teton Events crafts unforgettable wedding experiences in the majestic Tetons, featuring unique horseback riding wedding sessions that add an adventurous twist to your special day.
Officiants:
- Cindy Dahlin: Provides heartfelt and customized wedding ceremonies tailored to each couple’s unique story.
- Hamish Tear: Humanist/Non-secular ceremony officiant.
Florists:
- Lily and Co: Offers bespoke floral designs to complement the natural beauty of your elopement setting.
- JH Flower Boutique: Provides elegant and customized floral arrangements to enhance your wedding experience.
- Teton Wood Blooms: Specializes in unique wooden floral designs that capture the essence of Jackson Hole’s natural landscape.
- Briar Rose Flowers: Creates stunning, custom floral arrangements for Jackson Hole elopements, blending elegant designs with the natural beauty of the Tetons.
Hair and Makeup Artists:
- Hair and Makeup by Tanya: Offers professional hair and makeup services to ensure you look your best on your special day.
- Hair by Kelly Rene: Provides tailored hair styling services to complement your bridal look.
Videographers:
- Tower 3 Productions:
Tower 3 Productions creates authentic, story-driven wedding films, perfectly capturing the emotion and natural beauty of your Jackson Hole elopement.
Where to Stay for Your Jackson Hole Elopement
Choosing the right accommodation adds comfort, convenience, and style to your Jackson Hole elopement experience. Here are some favorite local spots offering the perfect blend of luxury, rustic charm, and convenience close to Grand Teton National Park:
- Jackson Lake Lodge: Comfortable lodging with iconic Teton views, scenic ceremony sites, and excellent dining options.
- Signal Mountain Lodge: Relaxed lakeside cabins perfect for couples seeking natural beauty and easy access to park locations.
- Four Seasons Jackson Hole: Luxurious mountain retreat in Teton Village, offering elegant rooms, exceptional amenities, and stunning views—ideal for couples desiring upscale comfort.
- Cloudveil Hotel: Boutique luxury in downtown Jackson, blending modern style with classic western charm.
- Hotel Jackson: Sophisticated accommodations centrally located in Jackson, providing stylish comfort close to restaurants, shops, and activities.
- Rustic Inn Creekside Resort & Spa: Charming luxury cabins along Flat Creek, offering cozy accommodations, scenic grounds, and easy downtown access for your elopement stay.
Vacation Rentals & Private Homes
For more privacy or larger gatherings, Jackson Hole offers beautiful vacation rentals, private cabins, and ranch-style homes through Airbnb and VRBO—perfect for intimate gatherings and relaxing stays during your Grand Teton elopement.
As your Grand Teton elopement photographer, we are happy to provide personalized recommendations to ensure your vendors match your style and enhance your overall elopement experience.
Where to Dine After Your Jackson Hole Elopement
Celebrate your marriage with a wonderful meal at one of Jackson Hole’s exceptional restaurants. From upscale dining to cozy, casual options, these spots are ideal for a special meal after your Grand Teton elopement:
- Snake River Grill:
A beloved Jackson Hole restaurant featuring elegant seasonal cuisine, a romantic atmosphere, and exceptional service. - Westbank Grill:
Located at Four Seasons Jackson Hole, this restaurant offers upscale mountain dining with delicious steaks, seafood, and stunning views. - The Mural Room at Jackson Lake Lodge:
Known for panoramic views of the Teton Range, this classic dining room offers an elegant dining experience with excellent regional cuisine. - Local Restaurant & Bar:
Casual elegance meets locally sourced comfort food in this popular spot downtown—perfect for a laid-back celebration. - Gather:
Trendy and lively, serving creative American dishes and craft cocktails ideal for a fun and festive post-elopement dinner. - Glorietta Trattoria:
Cozy, romantic Italian dining, featuring handmade pasta, thoughtful dishes, and an extensive wine selection.
Your Jackson Hole elopement should reflect your love story: beautiful, relaxed, and truly unforgettable. With incredible ceremony locations, amazing local vendors, cozy accommodations, and exceptional dining experiences, Jackson Hole and Grand Teton National Park offer everything you need for a memorable day. Let Highpoint Photography, your trusted Grand Teton elopement photographer, guide you through every step—helping you plan, organize, and celebrate your special day seamlessly. Ready to start planning your adventure? Contact us to make your dream elopement in Jackson Hole a reality!
