How to Elope in Jackson Hole, Wyoming
This is a rough overview of the wedding and elopement process in Jackson Hole and Grand Teton National Park. View my new step-by-step guide here.
Eloping in Jackson Hole, WY: A Guide to a Perfect Day with your Jackson Hole Wedding Photographer (me!)
Jackson Hole is a breathtaking location for a destination wedding or elopement, and not just in Grand Teton National Park! There are beautiful locations all over the Jackson area, from the top of Snow King to Diamond Cross Ranch.
If you're planning a Jackson Hole elopement, consider working with a local Jackson wedding photographer or Jackson elopement photographer instead of a travel photographer. They’ll know which spots are best during sunrise and sunset, where to go for the most solitude in this busy, busy park, and more.
Read on for tips on how to plan your perfect elopement in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.
Book your Jackson wedding photographer
Grand Teton National Park is one of the most stunning locations in the country, and you'll want to capture every moment of your special day. Consider hiring a local Jackson wedding photographer or Jackson elopement photographer who knows the park well and can help you find the perfect locations for your photos. A local photographer will also be familiar with the park's lighting conditions and can ensure that your photos are stunning.
Choose your ceremony location
Jackson has plenty of incredible locations for your elopement ceremony, including Grand Teton National Park, the Wedding Tree, and so much more.
Choose a location that fits your vision and consider the time of day and lighting conditions for your ceremony. Your Jackson Hole wedding photographer or Jackson Hole elopement photographer can help you find the perfect spot for your ceremony.
Obtain the necessary permits
All elopements in Grand Teton National Park require a $200 special use permit, which can be obtained through the park's website. Be sure to apply for your permit well in advance to ensure that you can secure your desired ceremony location. Your Jackson wedding photographer or Jackson elopement photographer can help you with the permit application process.
There are six specific sites for weddings in Grand Teton National Park:
Schwabacher Landing - 25 people max
Mormon Row - 40 people max
Mountain View Turnout - 25 people max
Glacier View Turnout - 25 people max
Snake River Overlook - 25 people max
Colter Bay Swim Beach - 40 people max
The Special Use Permit guest limits includes the photographer!
The Wedding and Commitment Ceremony Permit Special Use Permit authorizes the use of a ceremony photographer and videographer during the permitted activity.
There are two types of Wedding and Commitment Ceremony Special Use Permits that can be applied for:
Reserved Site-Specific Ceremony Permits
Small Dispersed Ceremony Permits
A permit is not required to hold a ceremony or reception at the Chapel of the Transfiguration, the Chapel of the Sacred Heart, or a concession facility such as Jackson Lake Lodge. Arrangements for the use of these must be made directly with the establishments.
Small Dispersed Ceremony Permits
Group size is restricted to no more than 12 people, including the wedding party, attendees, guests/children, officiant, and photographers.
Ceremonies are limited to one hour maximum at dispersed locations.
Small Dispersed Ceremony locations maybe applied for throughout the park except in prohibited areas (see below). Only one permit will be issued per location per day. A location may not be permitted if the activity will interfere with or prevent general visitor use or cause resource damage. Applicant must provide a location description with coordinates and/or a satellite view map of the requested location.
Prohibited locations include:
Reserved Site-Specific Ceremony locations during Friday, May 12, 2023 to Sunday, October 15, 2023
The paved trails within and surrounding the Jenny Lake Visitor Plaza at South Jenny Lake, Jenny Lake Trail, and Jenny Lake Overlook
Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point
String Lake developed area and trail
Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve
Concessioner land assignments (exception 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 gate, the permittee may have walking access but not vehicle access
Plan your reception
After your wedding ceremony, celebrate your nuptials with a reception. Consider booking a nearby hotel or restaurant for an intimate reception with your closest family and friends. Your Moab wedding photographer or Moab elopement photographer may be able to provide recommendations for local vendors who can help you plan your reception.
Plan your attire + gear
Grand Teton National Park is so unpredictable in terms of weather every single day of the year, so plan your attire accordingly. The mornings are always chilly and sometimes foggy, but that’s when the mountains really light up. Consider the time of year and the location of your ceremony when choosing your clothing and footwear.
Rain isn’t a deal breaker - I purchased some cute clear and white umbrellas to problem solve when it starts to rain.
I try to make the most of the golden hour and blue hour lighting, so if we’re venturing far from the car it’s best to bring your own headlamps (although I do have a few spares).
I always carry a backpack so there’s a place to stash your extra layers, water, and more, so stay on top of your hydration and sunscreen!
Getting married in Jackson Hole, WY can be a magical and unforgettable experience. Just be sure to plan ahead, obtain the necessary permits, and work with a local Jackson wedding photographer or Jackson elopement photographer to capture every moment of your special day. With the stunning scenery of Grand Teton National Park as your backdrop, your elopement is sure to be a day you'll cherish for years to come.
