New Hampshire Elopement Packages

Thinking about planning an elopement in gorgeous New Hampshire? New Hampshire is a state in the New England region of the northeastern US, which often gets overlooked as an elopement destination. After browsing through this guide, you’ll end up adding this place to your own list of best places to elope. Planning a New Hampshire elopement will allow you to have a picturesque location that is more off the beaten path compared to others. There’s so much that goes into a New Hampshire wedding. We’re here to break down everything you need to know when planning your adventure near some of the most gorgeous elopement views you will see.

New Hampshire Elopement Packages

New Hampshire’s picturesque landscapes, from the majestic White Mountains to serene lakes and charming covered bridges, make it a dream destination for couples seeking an intimate and adventurous elopement. Our featured Wandering Weddings members offer exclusive elopement packages tailored to capture the essence of New Hampshire’s natural beauty. Teaming up with a local expert is essential when planning your elopement; they know the hidden gems, best seasons, and insider tips that will elevate your experience. With a local photographer or planner by your side, you can enjoy a stress-free elopement! Check out our New Hampshire elopement packages below.

Where to Elope in New Hampshire

New Hampshire may not be the first elopement destination you think of, but you’ll wish you did think about it first! There are gorgeous places to elope in New Hampshire, perfect for all types of elopement adventures. From mountains, waterfalls, lakes, forests, oceans, and so much more. Here are some of our favorite spots to explore:

Mount Washington

Photo by Bridget Stephenson Photography

Location Map

Known to be the highest peak in NH, Mount Washington has its fair share of epic hikes and waterfalls to explore. This elopement destination is good for couples who want to have a more adventurous elopement and those couples who want to take it easy since you’re able to drive up Mount Washington during the summer and early fall seasons.

Mount Chocorua Lake Conservancy

Location Map

Mount Chocorua Lake is a pretty amazing location if you’re a couple who loves water activities. You can plan to sneak in some swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and even fishing after your “I do’s”. If you do want to take any photos or have any type of ceremony, then you need to request the specific date you want, since they only allow one wedding per day here.

Crawford Notch

Photo by Outdoor Chronicles Photography

Location Map

The great thing about eloping in NH is you have a lot of options when it comes to mountain views and waterfall elopement locations. Crawford Notch State Park alone has 5,775 acres of trails to explore. All of these different trails can be overwhelming, even if you live in New Hampshire! That’s why you should probably team up with a vendor!

Franconia Notch

Photo by Kelsey Converse

Location Map

Franconia Notch State Park is in a great location. It’s relatively close to a lot of things and it’s right off the main highway (win, win). Since this location is in such an accessible area, that means more people like to visit this destination. Summer is usually pretty crowded here. Our personal favorite time to elope here is during the Fall because the weather is awesome and the fall foliage is so epic.

Cathedral Ledge

Photo by Kelsey Converse

Location Map

Another popular spot to visit in NH is Cathedral Ledge. Known for its views of Saco River Valley and the White Mountains. If you do want to elope here, then you will need a permit ($100) and a reservation. A lot of people love this location because you can drive right to the top and get really gorgeous views. With that being said, try planning a weekday or sunrise ceremony here to avoid the crowds.

Lake Winnipesaukee

Photo by Kelsey Converse

Location Map

Lake Winnipesaukee is the largest lake in New Hampshire. This location allows you to have the best of both worlds with its gorgeous surrounding mountain views and the lake at your feet. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, then you can always plan a water activity here too!

Glen Elis Waterfall

Photo by Kelsey Converse

Location Map

On the slopes of Mount Washington, you’ll find Glen Ellis Falls. A 64 ft waterfall and just a 0.4 mile out and back hike. This area is accessible, stunning, and very popular! All accessible locations are immediately going to have more foot traffic (the hike takes 13 min to complete). Consider eloping during sunrise or a weekday!

Kancamagus Highway

Photo by Kelsey Converse

Location Map

Maybe you’re looking for something off the beaten path in terms of elopement locations and want to hit up multiple scenic spots. Kancamagus Highway is a 34.5-mile scenic drive, perfect for viewing the fall foliage and waterfalls in our opinion. This area is perfect to explore and plan a picnic, all while playing your favorite playlist in the car.

When to Elope in New Hampshire

Photo by Bridget Stephenson Photography

New Hampshire is gorgeous year-round, so that makes picking an elopement date here a breeze, right? Even though you’ll get stunning locations and great weather year-round, we do have a special spot in our hearts for NH elopements during the Fall.

Spring (March to May)

Spring in New Hampshire is a beautiful time to elope as the snow melts, flowers bloom, and the landscape comes alive with vibrant greenery. Average temperatures range from 30°F to 65°F (0°C to 18°C).

While early spring can still have snow in higher elevations, late spring offers colorful wildflowers and budding trees, perfect for a garden or lakeside elopement. Be mindful of occasional rain showers, and plan your elopement for mid to late spring for the best weather.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is one of the most popular times to elope in New Hampshire, with warm temperatures ranging from 55°F to 85°F (13°C to 29°C). The long, sunny days provide perfect conditions for outdoor ceremonies in the mountains, by the lake, or along the coast.

This season is ideal for couples looking to hike, kayak, or enjoy other outdoor adventures as part of their elopement. Just keep in mind that popular spots can get busy, so consider weekday or sunrise elopements to avoid crowds.

Fall (September to November)

Fall is perhaps the most iconic season in New Hampshire, with the state’s famous foliage painting the landscape in brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow. Average temperatures range from 30°F to 70°F (-1°C to 21°C), offering crisp, cool weather perfect for an outdoor elopement.

This is a magical time to say your vows in a forest, by a mountain overlook, or in a quaint village surrounded by fall colors. Early fall is warmer, while late fall can bring chilly air and the first hints of snow, adding a touch of magic to your elopement photos.

Winter (December to February)

Winter in New Hampshire transforms the state into a snowy wonderland, ideal for couples who love the romance of winter landscapes. Temperatures range from 10°F to 40°F (-12°C to 4°C), with higher elevations often covered in snow.

Whether you’re exchanging vows by a cozy fireplace, in a snow-dusted forest, or atop a scenic ski resort, winter elopements in New Hampshire offer a serene and intimate experience. Just be sure to bundle up and plan for potential weather-related travel delays.

Like many different elopement locations, we always recommend eloping during the weekday instead of the weekend during any season. 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.

Permits and Marriage Licenses in New Hampshire

Photo by Rendezvous Elopements

New Hampshire does have some locations that currently do not require permits to elope at, BUT you should always double-check with the respected park before running off and saying “I do”. Permit requirements are constantly changing, and it’s best to avoid any fees or issues on your wedding day by preparing ahead.

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.

New Hampshire Marriage License

Photo by Outdoor Chronicles Photography

If you’re looking to legally get married in New Hampshire, you’re in luck! It isn’t complicated and all you really need is your marriage license and an approved officiant for your elopement ceremony.

To get your marriage license, you’ll want to go to any town clerk in NH, apply, and pay the fee ($50). And no, you don’t need to be a resident.

The process is simple and quick, and you can even go the day before your elopement if you really wanted to!

NH marriage licenses do not have a waiting period and can be used on the same day!

If you want to skip the legal part of it all, then check out our guide on commitment ceremonies!

Best Places to Stay Near New Hampshire

New Hampshire has a variety of charming places to stay for your elopement experience. Whether you’re seeking a cozy mountain retreat, a lakeside cabin, or a quaint bed and breakfast in a charming New England town. Stay in a rustic lodge in the White Mountains with breathtaking views, relax in a boutique hotel near Lake Winnipesaukee, or opt for a romantic inn surrounded by fall foliage. From luxurious resorts with full amenities to secluded cottages where you can unwind in nature, check out our favorites below.

Check out this 2-bedroom chalet in the White Mountains.

Check out this waterfront home. 

Check out this lake home with ATVs.

Check out this home near Hampton Beach.

Check out this 3-bedroom cottage on Lake Winnipesaukee.

Let’s keep planning your flights and stay in New Hampshire.

Elopement Vendors For Your New Hampshire Elopement

Photo by Kelsey Converse

Looking for an all-inclusive elopement package in New Hampshire? 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 New Hampshire elopement adventures is the perfect way to make sure you have the best experience and respect the lands you’re eloping on.

Teaming up with an experienced vendor in the area also allows you to follow Leave No Trace (LNT) for that specific area. Working with someone who the area 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 not many people know about!

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