If you and your partner are dreaming of an intimate, scenic wedding experience, an adventure elopement might be the perfect choice. From towering mountain peaks to serene coastal cliffs, the U.S. is home to some of the most stunning locations for couples who want to say “I do” surrounded by nature. Whether you love the desert, forests, or the ocean, this guide will help you find the perfect backdrop for your special day.
1. Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite is one of the most iconic places to elope in the U.S., and for good reason. With its jaw-dropping granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and sweeping valley views, it offers an unbeatable setting for an adventure elopement. Popular spots include Taft Point, Glacier Point, and Cathedral Beach. If you’re looking for dramatic scenery and epic photo opportunities, Yosemite is hard to beat.
Best Time to Elope: Late spring through early fall for ideal weather and clear trails.
Permit Required? Yes, a special use permit is required.
2. Moab, Utah
For couples who love the desert, Moab provides an otherworldly landscape filled with towering red rock formations, arches, and endless open skies. Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park both offer striking backdrops for your elopement, while nearby BLM land provides even more secluded options for those seeking privacy.
Best Time to Elope: Spring and fall to avoid extreme summer heat.
Permit Required: Yes, national parks require permits for ceremonies.
3. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee/North Carolina
If misty mountain landscapes, dense forests, and waterfalls are more your style, the Great Smoky Mountains provide a romantic setting. With hundreds of scenic overlooks and hiking trails, you can find a secluded spot that feels just right for your vows.
Best Time to Elope: Fall for vibrant foliage or spring for blooming wildflowers.
Permit Required? Yes, a special use permit is needed for ceremonies in the park.
4. Olympic National Park, Washington
For couples who can’t choose between mountains, forests, and beaches—why not have them all? Olympic National Park offers a wide range of landscapes, from the Hoh Rainforest to the coastline of Ruby Beach. It’s perfect for those who want a Pacific Northwest vibe for their elopement.
Best Time to Elope: Summer for drier weather, though the park is beautiful year-round.
Permit Required? Yes, a special use permit is required.
5. Big Sur, California
Big Sur’s dramatic cliffs and ocean views make it one of the most picturesque locations for an elopement. Whether you choose to say your vows on a secluded beach, a cliffside overlooking the Pacific, or beneath towering redwoods, Big Sur offers a truly magical setting.
Best Time to Elope: Spring or fall for mild weather and fewer tourists.
Permit Required? Some locations require permits, especially in state parks.
6. Sedona, Arizona
Sedona’s red rock landscapes and stunning sunsets create a striking and unique setting for an adventure elopement. With plenty of scenic trails and vortex energy spots, it’s a perfect destination for couples who want a mix of adventure and spiritual connection.
Best Time to Elope: Spring and fall for comfortable temperatures.
Permit Required? Yes, depending on the location.
7. Glacier National Park, Montana
For couples who want a true wilderness experience, Glacier National Park offers breathtaking mountain peaks, alpine lakes, and remote beauty. Locations like Many Glacier and Logan Pass provide dramatic backdrops for an intimate ceremony.
Best Time to Elope: Summer to early fall when roads and trails are accessible.
Permit Required? Yes, a special use permit is needed.
Choosing an elopement location is one of the most exciting parts of planning your wedding. Whether you’re drawn to the rugged peaks of the West, the mystical forests of the Pacific Northwest, or the dramatic coastlines of California, there’s an adventure elopement destination that’s perfect for you.
Looking for guidance on planning your dream elopement? I’d love to help you choose the perfect location and capture every breathtaking moment!
