Grand Teton Elopement Guide

Thinking about planning a Grand Teton elopement? Grand Teton is probably the most picturesque place to elope in Wyoming. Perfect to spend the day exploring on one of the many hiking trails, climbing the various mountain peaks, or just sitting down together and admiring the Teton mountain range that the park encompasses. There’s so much that goes into a Grand Teton wedding, but it’s also one of the national parks that have the strictest rules surrounding leave no trace (LNT) and permits. We’re here to break down everything you need to know when planning your adventure near the most epic mountain peaks you’ll ever see.

Elopement Vendors For Your Grand Teton Elopement

Photo by Scenic Vows

Looking for an all-inclusive elopement package in Grand Teton? The first thing you’ll want to plan for is teaming up with an experienced elopement vendor in the area. Finding a vendor who specializes in Grand Teton elopement adventures is the perfect way to make sure you have the best experience and respect the lands you’re eloping on.

Leave No Trace (LNT) is huge, especially when it comes to eloping in Grand Teton. An experienced vendor will be the perfect resource and guide when it comes to what you should be aware of during your adventure. They are also great when it comes to suggesting more remote elopement and portrait areas that not many tourists know about.

Check out our featured elopement vendors who specialize in Grand Teton elopements below. Remember to ask what they include in their elopement packages! A lot of vendors include location scouting, adventure timelines, and more.

Where to Elope in Grand Teton

Grand Teton is a national park that prioritizes protecting the park’s resources and allowing all visitors to enjoy the park. With this in mind, there are only certain locations you can have your elopement and commitment ceremony within the park.

It’s also important to mention that only “small, simple, rustic, and undecorated ceremonies are permitted”. If you’re looking to include an arch or even simple props, then this national park is not the place for you to elope.

There are 6 site-specific ceremony locations you can apply for a permit at this park. Learn more about them below:

Schwabacher Landing

Photo by Captured by Marcela

Location Map

A short walk from the northernmost parking area, Schwabacher Landing gives you a view of the Teton, Snake River, damns, lodges, and beaver ponds. This location is usually busy in the mornings and evenings, so it’s best to plan during a weekday and avoid holidays.

Ceremony group limit: 25 people
Limitations: One ceremony per day, no more than 60 per year.
Restrooms? Yes

Mormon Row (North or South)

Location Map

Mormon Row has two areas for ceremonies, both north and south of Antelope Flats Road. You get views of the Tron Range here and historical buildings. This area isn’t as busy as Schwabacher Landing, but it’s still smart to plan your ceremony on a weekday.

Ceremony group limit: 25 people (South) and 40 people (North)
Limitations: One ceremony per day, no more than 60 per year.
Restrooms? Yes

Mountain View Turnout

Location Map

This location is a bit more remote compared to the others we have mentioned, and it also doesn’t get as busy. You still get epic views of the Teton Range here, but there aren’t any sitting areas or structures for shade. This area is also inaccessible by vehicle in the winter.

Ceremony group limit: 25 people
Limitations: One ceremony per day, no more than 60 per year.
Restrooms? No

Glacier View Turnout

Location Map

Another good location if you’re looking for a less busy spot. There isn’t any shade or benches at this location, but you’ll get open views of the Teton Range to appreciate. This spot is accessible friendly and has designated accessible parking spots and the pathways are paved.

Ceremony group limit: 25 people
Limitations: One ceremony per day, no more than 60 per year.
Restrooms? No

Snake River Overlook

Location Map

Snake River gives you views of the Teton Range and Snake River. There are designated accessible parking spots and pathways are paved here, but there are no benches or shade/rain cover. We recommend eloping her during the evening.

Ceremony group limit: 25 people
Limitations: One ceremony per day, no more than 60 per year.
Restrooms? No

Colter Bay Swim Beach

Location Map

Colter Bay Swim Beach is a gorgeous spot with views of the Teton range and Jackson Lake. While there isn’t necessarily rain cover, there are some trees to give you some shade. There are no benches, but there are some picnic tables if you need them. We recommend sunrise elopements here, and there are some paved pathways and accessible parking if needed.

Ceremony group limit: 40 people
Limitations: One ceremony per day, no more than 30 per year.
Restrooms? Yes, flush toilets nearby

Chapel of the Transfiguration & Chapel of the Sacred Heart

A Special Use Permit is not required for a ceremony at the chapels listed below, which are located within Grand Teton National Park. Arrangements for the use of these chapels must be made directly with the church.

Chapel of the Transfiguration
Chapel of the Sacred Heart 

Jackson Lake Lodge

Location Map

A special use permit is not required for a ceremony at Jackson Lake Lodge, because they are a full-service wedding venue located in Grand Teton National Park. This venue will help coordinate your wedding, and it’s a good option for those looking for dining and lodging.

When to Elope in Grand Teton

Photo by Scenic Vows

With the limited number of ceremonies per year, you have to think about when is the best time to get married in Grand Teton. With a lot of the park’s wedding locations not having areas to give you shade and a lot of the park not being accessible during the winter, you’ll want to aim for mid-May to late September. Fall is our favorite since it is not as crowded, you’ll get to see fall foliage, and it’s cooler.

Like many different national parks, we always recommend eloping during the weekday instead of the weekend. Certain areas, as mentioned above, are more crowded during certain times of the day. This is where teaming up with an experienced vendor in the area can be extremely helpful in planning your elopement.

Spring (April to June)

Average Temperatures: 30°F to 60°F (0°C to 15°C), while higher elevations may still experience freezing temperatures and lingering snow.

Pros:

• The park is quieter, with fewer tourists, offering a more intimate experience.
• Wildflowers begin to bloom, adding color to the landscape.
• Wildlife is more active, with opportunities to see animals.

Cons:

• Weather can be unpredictable, with a mix of rain, snow, and sunshine.
• Some areas may still be inaccessible due to snow, particularly in higher elevations.

Summer (July to September)

Average Temperatures: 40°F to 80°F (4°C to 27°C) in lower elevations. Higher elevations remain cooler, with temperatures averaging 30°F to 60°F (-1°C to 15°C).

Pros:

• Long, sunny days provide ideal conditions for outdoor ceremonies and exploration.
• All areas of the park are accessible, including alpine lakes and high mountain trails.
• The vibrant green landscapes and clear skies make for stunning photography.

Cons:

• Peak tourist season means more crowds and less privacy.
• Accommodations and permits may be harder to secure due to high demand.
• Afternoon thunderstorms are common, so plan for potential weather disruptions.

Fall (October to November)

Average Temperatures: 25°F to 55°F (-4°C to 13°C) in lower elevations. Higher elevations experience colder conditions, with temperatures ranging from 15°F to 40°F (-9°C to 4°C).

Pros:

• The park’s fall foliage is breathtaking during this time of year.
• Cooler temperatures make for comfortable ceremonies, especially in outdoor settings.
• Fewer visitors allow for a more peaceful and private elopement.

Cons:

• Some facilities and roads begin to close as winter approaches.
• Shorter daylight hours may limit the time available for your ceremony and photos.
• Weather can be unpredictable, with the potential for early snowstorms.

Winter (December to March)

Average Temperatures in lower elevations: 0°F to 30°F (-18°C to -1°C). Higher elevations are much colder, with temperatures often dropping below 0°F (-18°C).

Pros:

• The snow-covered landscapes create a magical, serene atmosphere for a winter elopement.
• Fewer tourists mean you can enjoy the park in peace.
• Winter sports like skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding add adventure to your elopement experience.

Cons:

• Cold temperatures and heavy snowfall can make outdoor ceremonies challenging, so bundle up!
• Limited accessibility, as many roads and facilities are closed during the winter months.
• Requires more preparation, including appropriate clothing and accommodations for winter conditions.

Permits in Grand Teton

Grand Teton has one of the most permit and regulation guidelines. Leave no Trace (LNT) is incredibly important here, so please read carefully and double-check the park’s website for the most up-to-date information on permit changes and park closures/updates.

If you’re having any type of ceremony at Grand Teton, then you need a special use permit ($200). Special use permits are issued for two different types of wedding or commitment ceremonies, reserved site-specific ceremony permits (at the locations mentioned above) and small dispersed ceremony permits.

For site-specific, it’s important to reserve the specific site and follow the regulations and limitations for each site.

Here are some things to keep in mind:

• All ceremony sites are open to the public during your ceremony
• Applications must be received a minimum of 30 days before your ceremony.
• Ceremony site use is on a first-come, first-served basis based on the date applications are received.
• Ceremonies are limited to two hours max

For small dispersed ceremony permits, group size is restricted to no more than 12 people (including the wedding party, officiant, and children). These ceremonies may occur throughout the park except in the following locations:

• Reserved Site-Specific Ceremony locations
• The paved trails within and surrounding the Jenny Lake visitor plaza at South Jenny Lake
• Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point
• String Lake and Jenny Lake overlook the one-way road from May 15 to October 15
• Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve (LSR)
• Concessioner land assignments (except for weddings sold/catered by Concessioners in assigned facilities in accordance with their contract)
• Park partner facilities (e.g., Murie Ranch, Teton Science School)
• Within proximity of places where weddings are being managed by a chapel or concessioner (e.g., the Chapel of the Transfiguration)
• Park cemeteries
• If a location is behind a gated road, the permittee may have walking access but not vehicle access.

Visit their website for more information on the latest Grand Teton permits.

Marriage License in Wyoming

Obtaining a marriage license in Wyoming is a straightforward process, but it’s essential to understand the specific requirements and steps to ensure your elopement or wedding goes smoothly. Here’s what you need to know:

There is no residency requirement to obtain a marriage license in Wyoming. Couples from out of state are welcome to marry here.

If either party has been previously married, you must provide the date of the final divorce decree or the date of the spouse’s death.

There is no waiting period in Wyoming, meaning you can get married immediately after receiving your marriage license.

How to Obtain a Wyoming Marriage License

Both parties must appear in person at a Wyoming County Clerk’s office to apply for the marriage license.
The license can be obtained from any county in Wyoming and is valid throughout the state.

The fee for a marriage license in Wyoming is generally around $30, but this may vary slightly depending on the county.
Payment is usually accepted in cash, credit card, or check.

The marriage license is valid for one year from the date of issuance. This gives you plenty of time to plan your ceremony after obtaining the license.
The marriage must be solemnized within this one-year period.

Your ceremony must be performed by an authorized officiant, which includes judges, retired judges, court commissioners, and ordained ministers.

Wyoming also requires at least two witnesses to sign the marriage certificate during the ceremony.

After your ceremony, your officiant will complete the marriage certificate and return it to the County Clerk’s office for filing.

Best Places to Stay Near Grand Teton

Photo by Scenic Vows

When planning your elopement or wedding in Grand Teton National Park, finding the perfect place to stay is super important for your elopement timeline. The area offers a range of accommodations to suit every taste, from luxury resorts and charming lodges to rustic cabins and cozy bed-and-breakfasts. Whether you’re looking to stay in the bustling town of Jackson, just a short drive from the park, or prefer a more secluded retreat closer to nature, you’ll find options that provide comfort, convenience, and stunning views of the majestic Teton Range.

Looking for somewhere to stay during your Grand Teton adventure? Check out these locations:

Check out this cabin near Grand Teton National Park.

Check out this 4-bedroom home. 

Check out this condo with 2-bedrooms.

Check out this house near Grand Tetons. 

Let’s keep planning your flights and stay in Wyoming.