Written by our rad team member, Kiersten Roy

Thinking about getting married in a national park? Or, find yourself wondering if that is even possible? Well, the good news is, yes, you can absolutely get married in a national park. While every park has different permit requirements, guest limits and ceremony locations, there are dozens of incredible options across the U.S. In this guide we’ve rounded up our favorite national park wedding venues, plus what each park is best known for, the best time of year to visit, travel logistics, and tips we’ve learned from photographing real weddings in many of these locations.

In this guide you’ll learn:

• Which national parks are best for weddings and elopements
• Average permit costs
• Best seasons
• Our favorite ceremony locations
• Planning resources
• …and more!

Insider tip: Don’t rule out the areas just outside the national parks. While national parks are famous for a reason, we’ve found that many of the most magical ceremony locations are actually tucked away in the surrounding national forests and public lands. You’ll often get the same epic mountain views with fewer crowds, more privacy, additional trail options, fewer restrictions, and the ability to include your pup of honor (yes, please!).

---

Table of Contents

• Quick Summary: Best National Park Wedding Venues in the U.S.
• What You Need to Know Before Planning a National Park Wedding
• How to Choose the Right National Park Wedding Location
• Top 14 National Park Wedding Venues in the USA
• National Park Wedding Locations FAQs
• Ready to Choose Your National Park Wedding Venue and Start Planning Your Adventure?

---

Quick Summary: Best National Park Wedding Venues in the U.S.

National Park	Best For	Best Time	Accessibility
North Cascades National Park	Alpine lakes, rugged mountain views, privacy	July–September	Moderate–Difficult
Olympic National Park	Beaches, rainforest, and mountain diversity in one place	Year-round	Easy–Moderate
Mount Rainier National Park	Wildflowers, iconic mountain views, classic Washington landscapes	July–September	Easy–Moderate
Redwood National Park	Towering ancient forests & coastal redwoods	Year-round (best spring/fall)	Easy–Moderate
Yosemite National Park	Iconic granite cliffs, waterfalls, bucket-list scenery	Spring & Fall	Easy–Difficult (varies by location)
Sequoia National Park	Giant sequoias & quiet forested mountain settings	Spring–Fall	Easy–Moderate
Joshua Tree National Park	Desert landscapes, rock formations, sunset tones	Spring & Fall	Easy
Rocky Mountain National Park	Alpine lakes, peaks, and high-elevation scenery	Summer & Fall	Easy–Moderate
Haleakalā National Park	Volcanic summit views & tropical island landscapes	Year-round	Easy–Moderate
Grand Teton National Park	Jagged peaks, lakes, and dramatic valley views	Summer & Fall	Easy–Moderate
Yellowstone National Park	Geysers, wildlife, geothermal landscapes	Summer & Fall	Easy–Moderate (driving-focused)
Arches National Park	Natural sandstone arches & desert formations	Spring & Fall	Easy–Moderate
Zion National Park	Canyon walls, rivers, and lush desert contrast	Spring, Early Summer & Fall	Moderate (some hikes required)
Glacier National Park	Alpine lakes, glaciers, rugged wilderness	Summer & Early Fall	Moderate–Difficult (seasonal access)

---

What You Need to Know Before Planning a National Park Wedding

From national park wedding permits to choosing the right location for your adventure, there are a few things you’ll want to know before you start planning your day.

Did you know you can actually get married in a national park? Yep, it’s true! National parks make some of the most incredible outdoor wedding venues in the country, with everything from towering mountain peaks and desert canyons to coastal cliffs, ancient forests, and alpine lakes.

But before you pack your bags and head out to your dream national park, there are a few important logistics to understand.

National parks are not free outdoor wedding venues.

While these places are open for everyone to enjoy, wedding ceremonies typically require a Special Use Permit. Permit costs vary depending on the park, but they are often around $50 to a few hundred dollars. Each park has its own application process, approved locations, guest limits, and rules, so it’s important to check the specific guidelines for the park you’re considering.

Don’t forget your marriage license.

A stunning location is only one piece of the puzzle! You’ll also need to follow the marriage laws for the state where you’re getting married, which may include obtaining a marriage license, having an officiant, and meeting witness requirements. We’ve created a guide on how to get a marriage license in the U.S. with step-by-step instructions for some of the most popular adventure wedding states.

Bring your park pass.

Along with your wedding permit, don’t forget your National Park Pass! The America the Beautiful annual pass is a great option if you’re planning to explore multiple parks during your adventure (and honestly, it’s one of our favorite souvenirs from a year of exploring).

Now that you know the basics, let’s talk about how to choose the national park that’s the perfect fit for your adventure.

---

How to Choose the Right National Park Wedding Location

Choosing a national park wedding location can feel a little overwhelming (especially when there are so many jaw-dropping places to choose from!). But if there’s one thing we could tell you it’s that there is no single “best” national park for a wedding. The best location is the one that feels like you.

Maybe you’ve always dreamed of standing beneath towering mountains. Maybe desert sunsets and wide-open landscapes make your heart happy. Maybe you want to wander through an ancient forest, listen to the sound of crashing waves, or wake up somewhere so beautiful you have to pinch yourself to see if it’s real.

The good news is that the U.S. is full of amazing national park wedding venues and the landscape is just the beginning! Here are a few things we recommend thinking about as you choose your perfect national park wedding location.

Start with the experience you want to have

Before choosing a park because of a beautiful photo you found online, think about what you actually want your day to feel like.

Do you want a relaxed morning exploring with your favorite people? A sunrise hike followed by coffee and a slow afternoon? A full-day adventure that takes you through multiple landscapes?

The best national park wedding locations aren’t just beautiful (though they definitely are that). They also allow for the kind of experience you want to have.

Consider your adventure style

Not every epic view requires an all-day hike (although if that’s your thing, we’re here for it!).

Some couples want a quick walk to an incredible overlook. Others want to spend the entire day hiking, exploring, and discovering hidden corners of the park together.

This is why we recommend thinking about what sounds exciting to you:

• A short and accessible trail with a big payoff?
• Or a longer adventure through the wilderness?
• A quiet spot away from the crowds?
• Or a place where your family and friends can comfortably join?

There’s no right answer. There’s just the adventure that feels the most like yours.

Think about the season

National parks can look completely different depending on the time of year.

Wildflowers, fall colors, snowy mountain peaks, rushing waterfalls, and desert sunsets all create their own kind of magic. But seasons also affect things like road access, weather, crowds, and trail conditions.

When choosing your park, think about the experience you want and the conditions that will help you have the best day possible (and don’t be afraid to reach out to your elopement photographer – that’s us – if you have questions. These are exactly the kinds of things we help our couples navigate!).

Don’t overlook the less-famous spots

We love the iconic viewpoints (seriously, they’re iconic for a reason!), but sometimes the most unforgettable moments happen away from the busiest areas.

Many national parks have quieter trails, hidden overlooks, peaceful corners, and areas just outside the park limits where you can slow down and really take in the landscape around you.

Keep your guest list in mind

Your guest count can play a big role in choosing a national park wedding location.

Some ceremony locations only allow smaller groups, and many parks have rules designed to protect these incredible places. If you’re planning a larger celebration, you may want to consider a nearby micro wedding venue and then plan an adventure session inside the park.

Looking for a deeper dive into permits, marriage licenses, Leave No Trace, and everything that goes into planning a national park wedding? We’ve put together a complete guide to how to get married in a national park.

Now that you know what to look for, let’s dive into some of our favorite national park wedding venues across the United States!

---

Top 14 National Park Wedding Venues in the USA

Call us biased, but we think Washington State has some of the most incredible national park landscapes in the country. From rugged coastlines to glacier-carved peaks and mossy old-growth forests, Washington is the kind of place that makes it very easy to fall in love with the idea of a national park wedding.

Most of our team at Between the Pine is based here, and we’ve spent countless hours exploring these parks, trails, and hidden corners while documenting couples’ best day(s) ever. We know these national parks and the surrounding trails like the back of our hand and can’t wait to show you around our beautiful home state!

North Cascades National Park

Known as the Alps of America, North Cascades National Park is easily one of our top picks when it comes to national park wedding venues in the U.S.

It’s one of those places that never stops surprising us, even after spending so much time exploring it with our couples. With jagged peaks, snowcapped mountains, and alpine lakes tucked deep into the backcountry, it feels remote, dramatic, and completely awe-inspiring in every direction.

Fun fact: it’s also one of the least-visited national parks in the country, which means you might find yourself in places that feel completely quiet and wide open (like you’ve stumbled into your own private mountain range).

Between the hidden trails, sweeping viewpoints, and untouched alpine landscapes, the North Cascades hold some of our favorite places in Washington that are just waiting for you to tie the knot.

Best time of year for your wedding in North Cascades National Park:

• Summer and fall – this is when the snow starts to melt, allowing the trails to become more accessible.
• July and August are some of our favorite months to visit this Washington national park as the wildflowers are in bloom.
• July-September are peak months to visit the North Cascades, but if you are wanting a little snow, May and June are perfect!

How to get to North Cascades National Park:

• Fly in to Seattle (SEA) and drive two hours
• Fly in to Vancouver, British Columbia and drive two and a half hours

Best places to get married in North Cascades National Park:

• Artist Point

  • While technically located outside of North Cascades National Park, Artist Point is part of the incredible North Cascade mountain range and one of our favorite areas to explore. Here you’ll find alpine lakes, dramatic mountain overlooks, wildflower-filled trails, and several easily accessible locations that make this a great option for couples bringing guests. Artist Point is actually where our team photographs many of our elopements each year! Some of our favorite nearby spots include Picture Lake, Huntoon Point, and Chain Lakes, but we also know a few lesser-known areas where you can soak in those jaw-dropping views without the crowds. See Dani and Cara’s Artist Point elopement

• Washington Pass Overlook

  • Washington Pass Overlook is one of the most iconic viewpoints in the North Cascades. With dramatic granite peaks, sweeping valley views, and easy access right from the road, this location is a great option for couples who want incredible mountain scenery without a long hike. It’s especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset when the light hits the peaks, creating a truly unforgettable backdrop for your wedding day.

• Park Butte Lookout

  • For couples who want a true adventure, Park Butte Lookout is where it’s at. This seven-mile trail takes you through alpine meadows and up to a historic fire lookout where you can even spend the night (seriously, how cool is that?). It’s also dog-friendly, making it a fun option if your pup of honor is joining your North Cascades adventure.

If you’re feeling inspired by the North Cascades (honestly, same), we’ve put together a deeper guide to help you start planning your day in this area.

---

Olympic National Park

In the upper northwest corner of Washington, you’ll find the Olympic Peninsula, home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the state and, of course, Olympic National Park.

Olympic National Park is one of the most geographically diverse national parks in the country, with everything from rugged coastline and temperate rainforest to alpine peaks and natural hot springs. That means you can quite literally experience totally different sceneries in one place (like Rainey and Logan did here), starting on a windswept beach and ending with a sunset mountain overlook, all in a single day.

With landscapes this varied, there’s no single way to experience an Olympic National Park wedding, and that’s exactly what makes this national park so special.

Best time of year for your wedding at Olympic National Park:

• Year-round – thanks to the area’s incredible diversity, Olympic National Park offers something stunning in every season, from moody coastal storms in winter to lush rainforest greens in spring and golden alpine light in summer and fall.

How to get to Olympic National Park:

• Fly in to Seattle (SEA) and drive three hours to the Olympic Peninsula or (our favorite option) take a ferry across the Puget Sound

Best places to get married in Olympic National Park:

• Hurricane Ridge

  • If mountain views are calling your name, Hurricane Ridge is hard to beat. This drive-up location sits over 5,000 feet above sea level and offers sweeping alpine views with very little hiking required. It’s especially beautiful during winter, though seasonal road access and weather can change quickly. See Jessica and James’ Hurricane Ridge elopement

• Hoh Rain Forest

  • Dreaming of all the classic Pacific Northwest vibes? The Hoh Rain Forest is filled with towering moss-covered trees, lush ferns, and some of the greenest scenery you’ll ever experience. It feels like stepping into another world. See Emma and Aarsh’s Hoh Rainforest elopement

• Ruby Beach

  • Ruby Beach is one of Olympic’s most iconic coastal locations, with sea stacks, driftwood-covered beaches, and dramatic ocean views. It’s an amazing choice for couples who want to experience the rugged Washington coastline without a long hike. See Sarah and Daniela’s engagement photos at Ruby Beach
• Lake Crescent / Bowman’s Bay
  • If you’re looking for an easily accessible ceremony location with mountain views, crystal-clear water, and room for guests, Lake Crescent is one of our favorite spots in the park. It offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere while still feeling incredibly scenic. See Cassidy and Jason’s Lake Crescent elopement

If Olympic National Park is calling your name, we’ve put together a deeper planning guide to help you start shaping what your day could look like here.

---

Mount Rainier National Park

Standing at 14,411 feet, Mount Rainier is one of the most iconic backdrops you can choose for a national park wedding.

This Washington national park is home to towering Douglas fir forests (Mollie’s favorite kind of trees), roaring waterfalls, wildflower-filled meadows, historic fire lookouts, alpine lakes, and sweeping views of the Tatoosh Range that frames Mount Rainier herself.

As the tallest mountain in Washington and the entire Pacific Northwest, Rainier is hard to miss and even harder to forget. It’s one of those places where every turn of the trail feels like a new viewpoint, which is exactly what makes it so special for a wedding day in the outdoors.

Whether you’re dreaming of a short and scenic hike for your ceremony or a multi-day backpacking adventure, Mount Rainier National Park offers endless trails and landscapes to choose from for an unforgettable celebration.

Best time of year for your wedding at Mount Rainier National Park:

• Summer and fall – during this time of year the snow melts giving access to all the trails in the park.
• July and August are our favorite months to visit Mt Rainier National Park, though anytime between July and September will allow you to experience the best that this park has to offer!

How to travel to Mount Rainier National Park:

• Fly in to Seattle (SEA) and drive an hour and a half
• Fly in to Portland (PDX) and drive around 3 hours

Best places to get married in Mount Rainier National Park:

One thing to keep in mind when planning a Mount Rainier wedding is that many ceremony locations have a 10-person guest limit. If you’re planning a larger celebration, don’t worry! There are designated ceremony sites throughout the park, and we know plenty of beautiful locations to recommend based on your group size, the season, and the experience you’re dreaming of.

• Golden Gate

  • Golden Gate is one of our favorite trails for couples who want sweeping views of Mount Rainier and the Tatoosh Range. The three-mile round-trip hike is especially beautiful in wildflower season, making it an epic backdrop for an intimate ceremony.
• Grove of the Patriarchs 
  • If towering old-growth forests are more your style, Grove of the Patriarchs is a magical option. This easy walk winds beneath ancient trees that create a lush green canopy (basically Mollie’s happy place) and feels especially cozy on misty Washington days.
• Fremont Lookout Trail
  • If you’re up for a hike, Fremont Lookout rewards you with some of the best panoramic views in the park. Perched beside a historic fire lookout, you’ll be surrounded by mountain peaks, sweeping valleys, and unforgettable views of Mount Rainier.

If you’re dreaming up a Mount Rainier wedding, we’ve put together a full planning guide to help you navigate locations, permits, and what your day could look like in this iconic national park.

If you’re starting to picture a Washington national park wedding, we’ve put together a full planning guide to help you dive deeper into locations, logistics, and what it actually looks like to get married in this beautiful state.

---

Redwood National Park

It’s no secret that here at Between the Pine, we love anything having to do with trees or forests, so naturally, one of our favorite national parks of all time is Redwood National Park! With massive redwood trees and the Oregon Coast not too far away, this park allows you to experience both a forest elopement and beach elopement all in one.

Best time of year to get married at Redwood National Park:

• Year-round – But if we had to choose, we’d say we love late Spring, early Summer, and Fall the most!

How to travel to Redwood National Park:

• This national park is a little more remote, so a road trip is in order to fully explore all that the Redwoods has to offer.

Best places to get married in the Redwoods:

• Lady Bird Johnson Trail

  • With towering trees, lush greenery, and the foggy coastal atmosphere create that classic Northern California forest feeling, Lady Bird Johnson Trail is one of the most iconic redwood locations in the park. Its higher elevation also means you may get those dreamy layers of mist drifting through the trees (which makes for an unforgettable backdrop).

• Stout Grove

  • If you’ve ever dreamed of getting married in a redwood cathedral, Stout Grove might be the place. This short, scenic loop trail takes you through one of the most beautiful groves in the area, with massive old-growth trees creating a peaceful, almost otherworldly atmosphere.

• The Miners’ Ridge and James Irvine Loop

  • For couples who want a little more adventure, the Miners’ Ridge and James Irvine Loop offers one of the best combinations of landscapes in Redwood National Park. This trail takes you deep into the redwoods before leading you toward the rugged California coastline, giving you two completely different backdrops in one adventure.

See Kimberlee and Chad’s Redwoods elopement

If a Redwood National Park wedding is calling your name, we’ve put together a full guide to help you explore the best ceremony spots, permits, and what it actually looks like to get married among these towering trees.

---

Yosemite National Park

Located in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, Yosemite National Park is best known for its dramatic granite cliffs and powerful waterfalls.

Often described as a landscape of “granite cathedrals,” Yosemite is home to some of the most iconic natural backdrops in the country, including El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Falls.

It’s also one of the most visited national parks in the U.S., but beyond the famous viewpoints, Yosemite holds an incredible mix of landscapes, from wide valley meadows and giant sequoia groves to striking rock formations that rise straight out of the valley floor.

Sunrise and sunset here feel especially magical, casting warm light across the granite walls and making it one of the most unforgettable settings for a national park wedding.

Best time of year to get married at Yosemite National Park:

• Spring and fall – summer is the park’s busiest time of year, so we recommend eloping here during the spring or fall months (aka shoulder season).

How to travel to Yosemite National Park:

• Traveling to Yosemite National Park isn’t necessarily an easy feat, but it’s definitely worth it! We recommend flying into any of the three airports listed blow.

  • Sacrament International Airport (SMF) – a benefit of flying into Sacramento is that it is a smaller city, so there will be less traffic as you travel out towards the valley. It’s about a 3 hour drive from the Sacramento airport to the national park.

  • Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) – the San Jose airport will put you between 3 to 3.5 hours from Yosemite National Park.

  • San Francisco International Airport (SFO) – the San Francisco airport is the biggest (and busiest) of the three airports and is located about 3 hours and 15 minutes from the national park. 

• Insider Tip: when booking a rental car, be sure to book through an airport on-site rental car facility for easy pickups and dropoffs.

Best places to get married in Yosemite National Park:

• Glacier Point

  • Glacier Point is one of Yosemite’s most iconic viewpoints, offering sweeping views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and the surrounding high country. Because it’s a drive-up location, it’s a great option for couples bringing guests or anyone who wants incredible views without a long hike. Sunrise and sunset here are absolutely magical (just expect to share this popular spot with other visitors).

• Taft Point

  • For couples looking for a little more adventure, Taft Point gives some of Yosemite’s most unforgettable views. This hike takes you above Yosemite Valley with incredible views of Half Dome and Yosemite Falls. It’s a popular location, but catching the sunset here makes the experience well worth it.

• Sentinel Dome

  • Sentinel Dome is a great option if you want iconic Yosemite views with a little more solitude. This shorter hike rewards you with panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, and Half Dome, making it a beautiful spot for an intimate ceremony or adventure session.

---

Sequoia National Park

Protected under the Wilderness Act of the 1960s, Sequoia National Park preserves a vast stretch of the High Sierra, where glacial canyons, alpine lakes, wildflower-filled meadows, and towering granite peaks come together in one of the most rugged landscapes in California.

This national park is also home to the largest living organisms on earth, the giant sequoias. These ancient trees can reach over 275 feet tall and have stood for more than 2,000 years, creating a truly humbling backdrop for a wedding day.

Here, you can exchange vows beneath massive sequoia groves with sweeping mountain views just beyond the trees.

Best time of year for your wedding at Sequoia National park:

• Year-round – we think spring, summer, and fall are the best times to visit though.

How to travel to Sequoia National Park:

• Road trip from San Francisco (about 4 hours and 20 minutes)

• Road trip from Los Angeles (about 3 and a half hours)

• Road trip from Fresno (about an hour and a half)

Best places to get married in Sequoia National Park:

• Moro Rock Trail

  • This trail features a waterfall and a stunning mountain overlook with snow-capped jagged peaks as your national park wedding backdrop.

• General Sherman Tree Trail
  • This trail is one of the more popular trails in the national park, and it takes you among the bases of the giant sequoia trees, including the trails namesake. (fun fact – standing at 275′, General Sherman – the largest tree in the world – is located in this park). 
• Giant Forest Loop Trail
  • This loop trail takes you winding through the giant sequoia trees, and it is a little less busy compared to other trails in the national park, making it a great location if you’re looking for a bit more privacy.

---

Joshua Tree National Park

If waking up in a desert oasis surrounded by mid-century modern design, wandering through otherworldly landscapes dotted with unique Joshua trees, and saying “I do” beneath a soft, candy-colored sunset sounds like your kind of wedding day, Joshua Tree National Park might be calling your name.

This park is especially magical during the shoulder seasons, when the weather often sits in that perfect sunny 70s range and the night skies open up for some of the best stargazing in the country.

That said, Joshua Tree has a few unique quirks that are worth understanding as you start planning your elopement or wedding here.

Best time of year for your wedding at Joshua Tree National Park:

• Spring and fall – the desert can get HOT during the summer months, so we recommend eloping during shoulder season to avoid the heat.

How to travel to Joshua Tree National Park:

• Fly into Palm Springs (PSP) and rent a car at the airport

• Fly into Los Angeles (LAX) and take a 2.5 hour road trip!

Best places to get married in Joshua Tree National Park:

• Split Rock

  • Split Rock is a great option for couples looking for a quieter Joshua Tree experience. This area is filled with unique rock formations, desert plants, and plenty of space to explore without venturing too far from the parking area. The nearby picnic area also makes it a fun option for couples who want to celebrate with family and friends before heading off for a more private ceremony moment.

• Cap Rock

  • Cap Rock is one of Joshua Tree’s most popular ceremony locations, and it’s easy to see why. With dramatic rock formations, easy access, and classic desert views, it’s a beautiful option for couples who want an iconic Joshua Tree backdrop without a long hike. While it can be busier than some other areas, there are still plenty of opportunities to find beautiful spots for your ceremony and photos.

• Hidden Valley

  • Hidden Valley is one of our favorite places to experience Joshua Tree’s iconic landscape, with towering rock formations and a fun climbing scene nearby. Because it’s one of the park’s most popular areas, it can be more crowded, especially during the day. If you love this area, we recommend exploring nearby quieter spots for your ceremony and saving Hidden Valley for photos or a celebratory picnic.

If you’re planning a Joshua Tree elopement or micro wedding, we’ve put together a full guide to help you navigate locations, permits, and what your day can look like in this iconic desert landscape.

---

Rocky Mountain National Park

With golden aspen groves, jagged mountain peaks, rushing rivers, and endless alpine landscapes, Rocky Mountain National Park has a little bit of that same mountain magic we love so much in the Washington parks (but with its own unmistakable Colorado personality).

This Colorado gem is one of Mollie’s favorite national parks because it was the very first national park she ever visited as a kid. Years later, it’s still just as awe-inspiring, with dramatic mountain views, peaceful forests, and countless places to create a wedding day that feels connected to nature.

Best time of year for your wedding at Rocky Mountain National Park:

• Summer and fall – summertime means all the snow will have melted off the trails allowing you the most access for your elopement or intimate wedding.

How to travel to Rocky Mountain National Park:

• Fly into Denver (DEN) and drive about an hour and a half

Best places to get married in Rocky Mountain National Park:

• Emerald Lake Trail

  • This short, out and back trail is a great option if you’re planning to include friends and family in your national park wedding. The Emerald Lake Trail will take you by amazing mountain views before arriving at the stunning reflective surface of Emerald Lake.

• Dream Lake Trail

  • We love this trail! The mountain peaks surrounding Dream Lake are so unique, making it a perfect backdrop for you to tie the knot during your national park wedding.

• Bear Lake

  • We highly recommend this trail for an early morning or sunset wedding ceremony. This will allow you to avoid the crows and see the mountains reflect off the lake’s surface during the early morning hours. This trail is also an ADA-accessible, drive up location, making it another great option if you’re including family as part of your adventurous wedding ceremony.

If Rocky Mountain National Park is calling your name, we’ve put together a full Colorado elopement planning guide to help you start dreaming up your adventure, from choosing the perfect location to navigating the logistics of getting married in the mountains.

---

Haleakala National Park

Oh Hawaii, we can’t get enough of you! If you’re dreaming of a tropical wedding day with a little adventure mixed in, Haleakalā National Park on Maui might be the perfect place to say “I do.”

While many people picture Hawaii as beaches and palm trees (and there is definitely plenty of that to go around), Haleakalā offers a completely different side of the islands. From the summit, you get to literally step above the clouds and witness some of the most incredible volcanic landscape and sunrise views.

Beyond its incredible scenery, Haleakalā is also a place rich with cultural significance and home to rare and endangered species that you won’t find anywhere else on earth. For couples planning a Maui wedding who want a meaningful connection to the landscape, Haleakalā is a must-consider for your national park wedding venue.

Best time of year for your wedding at Haleakala National Park:

• Year-round – seriously, any time of year is amazing in Hawaii

How to travel to Haleakala National Park:

• Fly in to Kahului Airport (OGG) on Maui

Best places to get married in Haleakala National Park:

• Pa Ka’oao

  • This quick hike up from the visitor’s center parking lot will help you avoid the crowds at sunrise. The view from the top of the trail leads directly into the volcano’s crater.

• Leleiwi Overlook

  • If early morning sunrises aren’t your thing, then Leleiwi Overlook is a great option! there are smaller crowds here and the view looks over the crater and cliffs. The lookout faces east, making it not the ideal location if you’re hoping for an epic sunrise view for your national park wedding.

• Hosmer’s Grove Nature Trail

  • Located right after you enter the national park, this trail is lower in elevation compared to some of the other trails. It’s a short trail that winds through dense trees that were planted as an experiment by the lumber industry! This landscape is a stark contrast to the top of the volcano, creating an amazing landscape for you Haleakala National Park wedding.

Planning a national park wedding in Hawaii comes with its own unique logistics (and a whole lot of exciting possibilities). These resources can help you start dreaming up your Maui adventure and understand what it takes to get married on the islands.

---

Grand Teton National Park

As you drive through Jackson Hole, the first glimpse of the Teton Range rising in the distance is the kind of moment that makes you understand why this park is so unforgettable.

Located in Wyoming, Grand Teton National Park is a dream destination for couples who want an adventurous wedding day surrounded by some of the most iconic mountain landscapes in the country. With jagged peaks, alpine lakes, peaceful meadows, and endless opportunities for adventure, this park offers so many ways to explore and celebrate your best day ever.

From hiking and mountaineering to backcountry camping and fishing, there’s no shortage of ways to experience the Tetons. And if you’re planning a longer adventure (or simply want to hit up multiple national parks during your wedding adventure), the park’s close proximity to Yellowstone National Park makes it possible to explore two incredible landscapes during your national park wedding trip.

Best time of year for your wedding at Grand Teton National Park:

• Summer and fall

How to travel to Grand Teton National Park:

• Fly into Jackson Hole Airport (JAC)

Best places to get married in Grand Teton National Park:

• Jenny Lake

  • This trail is a 7.5-mile loop that takes you to Jenny Lake and amazing, panoramic views of the Teton Range. If you’re wanting an epic mountain backdrop for your outdoor wedding, then this is the trail for you. Although it is one of the more popular hikes, the views are worth it!
• Taggart Lake Loop
  • This loop trail is a shorter distance that takes you to Taggart Lake with gorgeous views of the Tetons. This trail is the easiest and most direct route to Taggart Lake, making this trail a great option for a lake shore wedding ceremony.

• Hidden Falls Trail

  • This five-mile hike takes you alongside Jenny Lake to a waterfall and some stunning mountain views. This trail is great for all hiking skill levels, so if you’re planning to have guests at your adventure wedding or elopement, this trail is a great option.

• Pull off on the side of the road through the valley

  • This national park is so stunning that you could have some amazing wedding portraits by just pulling off the road through the valley. Every direction you look you’ll be able to see the expanse of the Teton Range.

---

Yellowstone National Park

Just north of Grand Teton, you’ll find another iconic piece of Wyoming’s wilderness: Yellowstone National Park.

Established in 1872, Yellowstone became the first national park in the United States, and it’s easy to see why this landscape was worth protecting. From colorful hot springs and powerful geysers (including the famous Old Faithful) to dramatic canyons, rushing rivers, waterfalls, and vast forests, Yellowstone kind of has everything you could want for a national park wedding.

Beyond the incredible landscapes, the wildlife is a huge part of what makes this park so special. Watching bison roam through the valleys or spotting elk and other wildlife in their natural habitat adds a little extra magic to a wedding adventure here (although we’ll let the bison enjoy their role as honorary guests from a respectful distance).

Best time of year for your wedding at Yellowstone National Park:

• Summer and fall

How to travel to Yellowstone National Park:

• This is a great national park for a road trip! This park is over 3,500 square-miles, so you will want a car to be able to explore all of Yellowstone National Park.

Best places to get married in Yellowstone National Park:

• Clear Lake-Ribbon Lake Loop

  • This loop trail connects two lakes along the rim of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and takes you through meadows and forest as you explore Yellowstone. Clear Lake-Ribbon Lake Loop is a great option if you’re wanting various landscapes for your outdoor national park wedding ceremony.

• Trout Lake

  • This is an easy, one-mile trail that follows around a Trout Lake. This mountain lake provides beautiful mountain views and wildflower meadows. Sounds like the perfect wedding ceremony backdrop, right?

• Top 10 Viewpoints of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

  • The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone is one of the most incredible landscapes in the park, with towering canyon walls, rushing waterfalls, and viewpoints around every turn. If you’re exploring Yellowstone before your wedding day or looking for places to add to your adventure itinerary, here is a helpful guide featuring some of the best viewpoints of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.

---

Arches National Park

With more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches, Arches National Park feels like stepping into a completely different world. Located just outside Moab, Utah, this red rock wonderland is filled with towering formations, winding trails, and some of the most unforgettable desert views in the country.

From sunrise glowing across the arches to golden sunsets lighting up the canyon walls, this park creates a truly unique backdrop for a national park wedding. Whether you’re exploring the trails together, sharing vows beneath a famous arch, or simply soaking in the quiet beauty of the desert, Arches has a way of making every moment feel larger than life.

Best time of year for your wedding at Arches National Park:

• Fall and spring – summertime can get very hot in the southwest, so we recommend eloping during the shoulder season

How to travel to Arches National Park:

• Fly into Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) and drive about four hours to Moab

• Fly into Grand Junction Regional Airport in Colorado and drive about two hours to Moab

Best places to get married in Arches National Park:

• Delicate Arch Viewpoint

  • Delicate Arch is the icon of Arches National Park, and it’s easy to see why couples want to include it in their wedding photos. While the arch itself is one of the busiest areas in the park and isn’t typically the best choice for an intimate ceremony, the nearby viewpoints can still give you that classic red rock backdrop. If seeing Delicate Arch is on your must-do list, we recommend visiting during quieter times and planning your ceremony somewhere that allows for a more peaceful experience.

• Double Arch Trail

  • Double Arch is one of our favorite areas in Arches for couples who want an easy-to-access location with dramatic desert scenery. This short trail leads you beneath massive sandstone formations and creates a truly unique backdrop for an adventure wedding.

• The Windows

  • The Windows section of Arches offers some of the most incredible views in the park, with towering sandstone arches and sweeping desert landscapes all around you. It’s a beautiful option for couples who want those iconic Arches views while exploring an area with several different spots to experience.

---

Zion National Park

Located in southwest Utah, Zion National Park is a place where towering red canyon walls, winding rivers, waterfalls, and lush greenery all come together.

As Utah’s first national park, Zion is known for its dramatic landscapes and iconic desert colors, but it offers a completely different experience than nearby Arches. Here, the sandstone cliffs are softened by cottonwood trees, flowing water, and pockets of green that bring a unique contrast to the desert landscape.

For couples dreaming of a Utah wedding surrounded by those classic red rock views but with a little more variety in the scenery, Zion National Park gives you a great mix of adventure, beauty, and wild landscapes.

Best time of year for your wedding at Zion National Park:

• Spring, early summer and fall

How to travel to Zion National Park:

• Fly in to Las Vegas (LAS) and drive about two hours to Zion National Park

• Fly into Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) and drive about three and a half hours

Best places to get married in Zion National Park:

• Zion Canyon Overlook

  • Canyon Overlook is one of our favorite places to take in Zion’s incredible scenery. This short hike leads to a jaw-dropping view of Zion Canyon, with towering cliffs, desert landscapes, and plenty of that iconic Utah magic. It’s a popular spot, but visiting during quieter times can make the experience feel much more peaceful.

• The Watchman Trail

  • The Watchman Trail offers a beautiful introduction to Zion, with views of the canyon, the Virgin River, and the famous Watchman formation in the distance. This year-round trail is a great option for couples who want an easier adventure with classic Zion views.

• Emerald Pools Trail

  • For couples who love a little greenery mixed with their desert landscape, Emerald Pools is a unique option in Zion. This trail winds through the canyon alongside waterfalls, pools, and towering rock walls, creating a completely different feel from the park’s iconic overlooks.

---

Glacier National Park

A wedding at Glacier National Park kind of feels like stepping into a true wilderness adventure. Located in Montana’s Rocky Mountains, this park is filled with rugged peaks, alpine meadows, ancient forests, and crystal-clear lakes that feel almost untouched.

With more than 700 miles of trails, Glacier is a dream destination for couples who want their wedding day to include exploration, quiet moments in nature, and the feeling of being somewhere truly wild. From scenic mountain overlooks to peaceful lakeshores, there are endless ways to experience this incredible landscape together.

Often called the “Crown of the Continent,” Glacier National Park is a breathtaking way to end our list of some of the best national park wedding venues in the U.S.

Best time of year for your wedding at Glacier National Park:

• Summer and early fall – because of the high elevation, snow arrives in late fall and stays until early summer

How to travel to Glacier National Park:

• Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) is only 30 miles from the west entrance of Glacier National Park

Best places to get married in Glacier National Park:

• Hidden Lake Trail

  • Hidden Lake is a really popular trail, but one that we absolutely recommend visiting at least once! The trail offers wildflowers, alpine views, and a stunning overlook surrounded by mountain peaks. It’s a popular destination, but visiting during quieter times can make this experience feel even more magical.

• Avalanche Lake

  • Avalanche Lake is a beautiful option for couples who want the classic Glacier feeling of forests, mountains, and crystal-clear water. The trail takes you through lush old-growth forest before opening up to a peaceful lake surrounded by dramatic peaks.

• Trail of the Cedars

  • For couples who love the feeling of being surrounded by towering trees, Trail of the Cedars is a must-see. This easy boardwalk trail winds through an old-growth forest and creates a peaceful, intimate atmosphere for exploring, photos, and soaking in the magic of Glacier.

---

National Park Wedding Locations FAQs

One thing to know about national park weddings: every park has its own rules, regulations, and permit requirements. While we’ve answered some of the most common questions below, always check the specific guidelines for the park where you’re planning to get married. These rules exist to help protect these incredible landscapes so they can be enjoyed for generations to come.

Can you legally get married in a National Park?

Yes! You can legally get married in many national parks, but each park has its own rules, approved ceremony locations, and permit requirements. You’ll also need to follow the marriage laws for the state where you’re getting married, including obtaining a marriage license and meeting any officiant or witness requirements. As your national park elopement photographers, we’ll help walk you through every step of the process so you never have to wonder what comes next.

Do you need a permit to get married in a National Park?

Most national parks require a Special Use Permit for wedding ceremonies. The requirements (and costs) vary by park, so it’s important to check the specific guidelines for the location you’re considering before making plans.

How much does a National Park wedding permit cost?

Permit fees vary depending on the park and the type of ceremony, but most national park wedding permits typically range from around $50 to a few hundred dollars. Some parks may have additional fees depending on your group size or location. If all this feels overwhelming, don’t worry – we’ve helped dozens of couples plan their national park wedding and can help answer all your questions and guide you through the process.

How many guests can you have at a National Park wedding?

Guest limits vary by park and ceremony location, so it’s important to check the specific rules for the place you’re considering. Many national park ceremony locations have smaller guest limits to help protect the landscape and create a better experience for everyone visiting the park.

In our experience, groups of 15 guests or fewer are often the best fit for a national park wedding ceremony. Smaller groups allow you to be more flexible with locations and help keep your celebration feeling connected to the landscape around you.

If you’re dreaming of celebrating with more than 15 guests, we recommend looking into a micro wedding venue near the park and planning an adventure session in the national park with just the two of you before or after. That way, you still get those epic views and meaningful moments in nature while creating an experience that works best for your whole group.

Can you bring your dog to a National Park wedding?

It depends on the national park, but in most cases, bringing your dog will be more limited than you might expect. Many national parks have strict pet policies and only allow dogs in certain developed areas, campgrounds, or paved trails to help protect wildlife and preserve the landscape.

That said, some parks do have dog-friendly areas where your pup can join part of the adventure! If having your pup of honor with you is a priority, we recommend checking the specific pet rules for your chosen park or considering nearby dog-friendly locations where your whole crew can explore together.

Can you have a reception inside a National Park?

It depends on the park. Some national parks allow small gatherings or picnics in designated areas, while others have restrictions on receptions, decorations, catering, or amplified music and what you can bring in. Most of our couples who plan a national park wedding choose to have their ceremony in the park and celebrate afterward at a nearby venue or private rental.

Every national park has its own rules, permits, and ceremony requirements. If you’re ready to dive deeper into the planning process, check out our complete guide to how to elope in a national park, where we walk through everything step by step.

---

Ready to Choose Your National Park Wedding Venue and Start Planning Your Adventure?

With so many incredible national parks across the United States, the hardest part might just be choosing where to begin (seriously, how do you pick between towering mountains, desert sunsets, ancient forests, and wild coastlines?).

While these are some of our favorite national park wedding locations, the perfect place isn’t about finding the most popular spot. It’s about finding a landscape that feels like you and creating a day that lets you slow down, explore, and celebrate together.

Whether you’re dreaming of a sunrise mountain ceremony, a quiet moment beneath the trees, or an adventure somewhere completely new, we’d love to help you plan a national park wedding that feels intentional, meaningful, and uniquely yours.

Ready to start dreaming up your national park wedding?

Looking for even more resources to help you plan your adventure? Check out these guides: