After photographing weddings for 14 years and traveling to over 40 countries on 7 continents (and establishing an extensive database of the best places to elope in each one!), I can tell you that, if you want a hiking elopement, you can do it pretty much anywhere in the world.
I’ve photographed hiking elopements in countless countries as well as taken backpacking trips of my own all over the world—including my own “glam-packing” elopement—so I know exactly how to determine if a hiking elopement is right for you, how to best prepare for one, and how to get started with planning.
Before we get into it, though, I want to make sure you know about my searchable location database! This interactive map is stocked with over 600 of my favorite spots from all over the world and lets you filter by season, scenery, and even activity (so you can see a list of only hiking locations!).
How do you know if a hiking elopement or backpacking wedding is right for you? Let’s weigh some pros and cons.
PROS of hiking
CONS of hiking
Before you get in deep with planning a hiking elopement, I just want to let you know that you can still get incredible views without a hike. 90% of my couples don’t, in fact! The vast majority of my photos are taken less than 1/2 mile gentle walk from a vehicle, be it a helicopter, 4X4, or anything else.
But if you’re a couple who deeply loves the trail, I can definitely give you the hiking wedding of your dreams! Here’s how to plan one.
Steps to plan a hiking elopement
1. Find a photographer who loves to hike and who has significant experience in hiking elopements in the area you’re considering eloping
Getting a local expert will give you someone who can help you find a great location, help you best plan for conditions and time of year, and answer all of your questions with first-hand knowledge!
2. Assess your hiking ability & how strenuous of a hike that you want to do on your wedding day
Remember to consider length and difficulty of terrain, what extra gear you’ll be carrying, and where you’d like to end up. My best rule of thumb is: whatever length of hike you love to do normally, cut it in half! Easier is always better for your elopement day. You don’t want to have a bad time and you can still get to beautiful views!
3. Pick a trail that matches your experience and your desired views
Again, consulting with your photographer can give you all the best options as far as trails go that fit what you want!
4. Pick the right time of day and plan for a timeline with room to spare
You don’t want to stress about missing sunrise or sunset, so give yourself a ton of extra time and plan for delays. This will avoid you ending up at your spot in a bad mood, sweaty, and out of breath. This will also leave you more time than usual if you’re doing things like hiking in a dress!
5. Pack the right gear
This will change a lot depending on what trail you choose and what season, whether or not you want to wear hiking boots with your wedding attire, are getting ready at the trailhead, etc.
6. Watch the weather and have a backup plan that you LOVE
This step is super important. No one wants to plan for anything short of exactly what they want on their wedding day, so make sure that you’re also crazy about your backup plan in case of inclement weather or bad trail conditions.
What’s the best time of year for a hiking elopement?
This answer is pretty dependent upon where you’re doing your hiking, but generally, look for the lowest chance of rain combined with the most enjoyable temperature. Remember that you’ll probably be hiking up or down the trail in the dark, so consider the daily low temperature, windchill, and lack of sunlight.
For a mountain destination, this will likely land you in summer. But for the desert, you’ll be looking at any other time of the year to avoid heat exhaustion.
Best locations around the world for a spectacular hiking elopement
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Rocky Mountain National Park is basically Colorado’s greatest hit! With 265,000 acres of untouched epicness, you’ve got no shortage of jaw-dropping elopement spots, whether you want to say your vows at an alpine lake or at the top of a 14er like Longs Peak. Trail Ridge Road, one of the highest paved roads in the country, makes it easy to get those big mountain views without the hike. But if you’re up for an adventure, the park’s endless trails lead to waterfalls, high-altitude lakes, and some of the best stargazing around. “I do!”
Best for: Mountains, Lakes, Wildflowers
Best months to get married here: June to September
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Wildlife watching
Yosemite National Park, California
There’s a reason Yosemite is one of the most iconic national parks on the planet. Towering granite cliffs, 3,000 feet straight up. Waterfalls crashing down rock faces. Giant sequoias that make you feel microscopic. When it comes to finding a hiking elopement that’s legendary, this is the spot. Take on the hike to Taft Point for heart-stopping cliffside views, trek to the top of Half Dome if you’re feeling bold, or keep things easy with Tunnel View, where the entire valley unfolds in front of you. Black bears, glowing sunsets, and that hazy Sierra Nevada magic? Yeah, you won’t forget this one.
Best for: Mountains, Forest, Waterfall and Canyon
Best months to get married here: June to September
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Camping, Rock climbing
Dolomites, Italy
The Dolomites are spectacular, with miles upon miles of full-blown, in-your-face, towering rock. If you’re not into long hikes, a gondola can take you right to the top for an easy stroll to some of the most unreal scenery in Italy. But if you’re up for it, this place is a dream for rock climbers and backpackers. Don’t forget to check out Lago di Carezza, a shockingly turquoise alpine lake. It’s so romantic! When it comes to a mountain backdrop that’ll make your wedding photos look next-level, this place is just the ticket.
Best for: Mountains, Forest, Lakes, Wildflowers
Best months to get married here: June to October
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Camping, Rock Climbing, Stargazing
Himalayas, Nepal
If you want big mountains for your elopement, why not go straight to the tallest in the world? The Himalayas in Nepal are as legendary as it gets, home to Everest and a full roster of the Earth’s other highest peaks. You can soak in the energy of Namche Bazaar, an eye-popping Everest viewpoint sitting at nearly 12,000 feet, or take things up a notch with a helicopter ride over the mountain range for views that feel straight-up otherworldly. For a more laid-back but equally epic option, Pokhara offers manageable hikes with ridiculous mountain backdrops, giving you all the views with none of the Everest-level exhaustion. Win!
Best for: Mountains and Glaciers
Best months to get married here: March to June and September/October
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Helicopter, Stargazing
Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Mt. Rainier is the kind of mountain that stops you in your tracks. When she peeks through the clouds, it’s like she owns the whole skyline. In summer, the park explodes with wildflowers, while early fall brings fewer crowds and crisp mountain air. The main spots are stunning, but some of the best views come from the lesser-known trails just outside the busy areas, where you can say your vows with the mountain towering in the background and nothing but wilderness around you. Rainier makes sure your elopement comes with a serious wow factor!
Best for: Mountains, Wildflowers
Best months to get married here: June to September
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Camping, Stargazing
Milford Track, New Zealand
For hiking in New Zealand, no conversation is complete without bringing up the Milford Track, which locals define as, “arguably New Zealand’s most famous walk”. This 33 mile path takes you through the amazing scenery of Fiordland National Park, from peaks, to waterfalls, to lakes, to rainforests. There are three huts along the track that make easy stopping/pacing points during your hike and make it more comfortable to stay overnight! Or you can just hike part of it based on what scenery you’d like to see and still know you’ve set your feet on deeply beloved ground. Either way, it’s a spot to remember.
Best for: Mountains, Forest, Waterfall, Coast, Wildflowers
Best months to get married here: November to February
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Camping
San Juan Mountains, Colorado
The San Juans aren’t here to mess around. If you’re into off-roading, take a Jeep up Imogene Pass and try not to scream on the switchbacks! Rather hike? Pick a trail and expect waterfalls, abandoned mining cabins, and views that make you question reality. Base yourself in Ouray, aka the “Switzerland of America,” where you can wrap up your elopement day in a hot spring with a beer in hand. Aaaannnddd relax…
Best for: Mountains, Forest, Alpine Lakes, Hot Springs, Wildflowers
Best months to get married here: June to October
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Jeep/4×4, Stargazing, Camping
Sacred Valley, Cuzco, Peru
I personally chose the Sacred Valley for my elopement, so it’s safe to say I know my stuff when it comes to this spot! The Andes here hit 19,000 feet, which means cloud inversions, deep green valleys, and views that will absolutely knock the wind out of you. Incan ruins are scattered everywhere, and it feels so special to say your vows in such an ancient and sacred place. There are accommodation options to suit every type of couple, from luxury lodges to basic-but-cozy tents, and the stargazing here is next level. I know it’s wrong to have favorites, but this is certainly one of mine.
Best for: Mountains, History, Forest, Towns
Best months to get married here: October to March
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Camping
Haleakalā National Park, Maui, Hawaii
If a Hawaiian elopement sounds like something out of a dream, eloping at Halekalā National Park, Maui’s crown jewel, must sound like the best dream of your life! Watching the sunrise from the summit (so popular you need a reservation) is the best way to start your big day, followed by exploring volcanic craters, cloud forests, and waterfalls hidden in the Kīpahulu District. At over 10,000 feet above sea level, this is one of the best places on the planet to see the Milky Way, and the park is also a stronghold for native Hawaiian bird species you won’t find anywhere else. Need I say more?
Best for: Mountains, Forest, Waterfalls, Desert
Best months to get married here: Year round
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Stargazing
South Tyrol, Italy
For jaw-dropping mountain views without sacrificing good wine and even better food, South Tyrol is where it’s at. Sure, the Dolomites steal the show, but this place also throws in lakes with old church steeples sticking out of them, waterfalls around every corner, and hills so bright green they look fake. Plus, the mix of Austrian and Italian culture means you can grab fresh strudel at a mountain hut, then wash it down with some of the best local wine. Pack up a picnic with cheese, apples, and fresh bread, find a scenic spot, and elope!
Best for: Mountains, Forest, Lakes and Wildflowers
Best months to get married here: July to September
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Camping, Rock climbing, Stargazing
Isle of Skye, Scotland
Skye is all moody Scottish coastline, dramatic cliffs, and wildlife that’ll blow you away. If that doesn’t sound like the perfect place for a secluded elopement, I don’t know what will! You’ve got Highland cows chilling in the fields, puffins waddling along the shore, and seals popping their heads up to say hi. Over at Neist Point Lighthouse, the cliffs drop straight into the ocean, and the views go forever – so that’d be my pick for your elopement spot. Hmm, or maybe the Fairy Pools? This gorgeous series of cascading waterfalls has water so clear you’ll want to jump in (but heads up – it’s freezing)!
Best for: Mountains, Waterfall, Coast
Best months to get married here: May to August
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Camping, Rock climbing
Mount Fitz Roy, Argentina
Mount Fitz Roy is an over 11,000 foot peak that sits on the border between Argentina and Chile. This is one of the only “smoking mountains”—so called because of the clouds that frequently form at its peak. The hike to its summit is a notoriously challenging one, but reveals beautiful glaciers and forests along the way. If you’re a serious climber, though, it can be done in a day! Or take a shorter trail to still get in a good hike with rewarding sights without some of the difficulties of the icy peak.
Best for: Mountains, Glacier
Best months to get married here: December and January
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking
Petra Treasury, Jordan
You may recognize this iconic rock facade from the likes of the Indiana Jones films. Petra is an ancient red sandstone archaeological site that takes Greek architecture and brings it to the middle of the desert. For an adventurous couple with a deep love of human history, this could be an exciting site to see during your elopement day! Book a private tour here to add something extra special to the experience.
Best for: Desert, History
Best months to get married here: Year Round
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
The Tetons explode out of the ground, steep, jagged, and impossible to ignore. If you’re the kind of couple that is obsessed with the outdoors, this place is your playground. Hike up to a glacier-fed lake, spot moose casually strolling by, or just find a quiet spot where it’s just you, the mountains, and the kind of silence that only happens this deep in nature. Jackson Hole keeps things interesting when you’re off the trail, with old-school Western vibes, cozy lodges, and enough adventure to keep you busy long after the vows.
Best for: Mountains, Lakes
Best months to get married here: July to October
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Rowboats, Camping, Stargazing
Laugavegur Trail, Iceland
If you’re going to hike 34 miles through Iceland’s wildest landscapes, why not make it part of your elopement? The beloved Laugavegur Trail takes you through lava fields, steaming hot springs, and mountains in every color you can imagine. It’s not an easy trek, but standing in the middle of this place, saying your vows with nothing but epic scenery in every direction is totally worth it. If the idea of tackling it solo sounds a little intense, a local guide can help you out. No stress!
Best for: Mountains, Canyon, River, Waterfalls, Glacier
Best months to get married here: July and August
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Camping
Tour du Mont Blanc, Chamonix, France
The Tour du Mont Blanc is the Big Daddy of hikes: three countries, 100+ miles, and some of the best mountain scenery in Europe, and even the world! You’ll be crossing borders on foot and winding through alpine villages where fresh pastries and espresso are just part of the trail experience, day-in, day-out. Spend the night in a mountain hut, wake up to views that don’t even look real, and find the perfect spot to say your vows somewhere between France, Italy, and Switzerland.
Best for: Mountains, Forest, Glaciers, Wildflowers
Best months to get married here: June to October
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Camping
Trolltunga, Norway
For some of the most scenic cliffs and views in all of Norway, you’ll want to explore Trolltunga (the Troll’s Tongue). Can you picture saying your vows on an unreal cliff over 1,000 feet above the lake below, surrounded by clouds? This spot is only reachable via a rigorous hike, but the views are truly spectacular. If you want to feel accomplished and like you tackled a true adventure, this could be an epic thing to say you did.
Best for: Mountains, Lake
Best months to get married here: July and August
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking
Angels Landing, Zion National Park, Utah
For a wedding with a serious adrenaline rush, Angels Landing delivers. This infamous hike is all narrow ridges, sheer drop-offs, and views that stretch across Zion’s red rock canyons. Epic! It’s not for the faint of heart (you’ll be holding onto chains for the last stretch) but standing at the summit, looking out over the whole park, is absolutely unreal. If you’re not up for the full hike, which is totally fair, Scout Lookout offers killer views without the white-knuckle climb. Saying your vows at one of the most legendary viewpoints in the country is an elopement story no one else will have.
Best for: Mountains, Canyon
Best months to get married here: May to October
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking
Aconcagua, Argentina
At 22,837 feet, Aconcagua is the highest peak in the western hemisphere and absolutely dominates the Andes skyline. No, you’re probably not summiting this one on your elopement day (unless you’ve got 20 days to spare and an ice axe handy), but hiking a small part of this legendary mountain is surely close enough. The views are next-level, with glacier-covered peaks stretching as far as you can see, making for some spectacular wedding photos!
Best for: Mountains, Glaciers and Desert
Best months to get married here: December and January
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Camping
Ben Nevis, Scotland
You’ll find mentions of Scotland all over this site, so it’s obvious that I think it’s a pretty wow-worthy elopement spot. To make your elopement truly stand out, though, why not do it on top of the tallest mountain in the UK? At 4,413 feet it’s not exactly a walk in the park, but the main hiking trail makes it surprisingly doable even if you’re not a hardcore mountaineer. Hike up, say your vows with the whole of Scotland laid out beneath you, then head back down for a whisky toast at a local pub. Sounds like the perfect day to me!
Best for: Mountains, Lake, Coast
Best months to get married here: May to August
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, Whisky tasting
Best time of day to hike during your wedding
I always recommend sunrise rather than sunset! Mid-morning to mid-afternoon is when you’ll find the most other hikers on a given trail and will have a drastically decreased chance of getting a view to yourselves.
That being said, though, sunset can also give you a chance at this, as many hikers avoid going back in the dark! The more popular of a trail you’re going for, though, the more I would encourage you to look toward sunrise. This can also change based on what scenery you’re hiking through and what views you’re aiming to see.
If you’re hiking on a mountain, always start in the morning. Mountains create their own weather systems, so afternoon thunderstorms are common. This is especially crucial if you’re doing a hike longer than 1 mile above the treeline (AKA—the place on the mountain where the trees stop growing, leaving you vulnerable to lightning strikes and shelter).
For desert hikes, morning is also usually best to avoid the hottest parts of the day, especially in places like canyons. Desert sunsets and stargazing after can be spectacular, just make sure you plan accordingly for any heat.
What can you wear for a hiking elopement? Clothing & outfit considerations
Can you hike in your wedding dress or wedding attire?
Yes! You can absolutely hike in a wedding dress if it’s hiking-friendly (more on that below) and the trail isn’t extremely difficult. Watch out for trails that are long, steep, have water crossings, or require scrambling to reach the top, as these will either damage your dress or impede your safety.
Here’s what I recommend to couples:
- For sunrise elopements on easy trails (4 miles or less with gentle terrain)
- Hike up the trail in your normal clothes in the dark
- Put on your dress or wedding attire right before sunrise and do your “first look” if you want one
- Hike down the trail in your wedding attire
- For sunset elopements on easy trails (4 miles or less with gentle terrain)
- Hike up the trail in your dress or wedding attire
- Change once all of your photos are done
- Hike down the trail in your other clothes in the dark
- For hikes requiring technical skill or more than 4 miles
- Hike up AND down the trail in your hiking clothes
- Only change at your destination and change back once your photos are finished
How to pick a hiking-friendly wedding dress:
If you want to actually hike in your dress:
- Pick a lightweight dress with no heavy boning, stiff fabric, or thick materials
- Opt for a non-form fitting silhouette, especially below the waist, so that you can move freely. Loose & flowy is key!
- Consider the length of the dress and maybe hem the front a bit shorter so that you don’t trip on it while going uphill
- When you try it on, also try marching, walking, and climbing things in it (embrace it!)
- Make sure nothing will dig in or chafe with repetitive movements—you can test this by pumping your arms, practicing like above, and experimenting with different types of movement
If you don’t want to hike in your dress:
- Consider the overall weight of carrying it in your pack up and down the trail. Also consider how much space it will take up!
- Make sure you can still move around easily in it—you’ll still be at an outdoor location and need to walk around some
How to pick a hiking-friendly wedding suit or other attire
- Make sure your fabrics aren’t too tight or stiff and that they have some breathability
- Consider leaving room underneath for a thermal underlayer if you’re going to a cold location
- Just like above, consider the weight of the materials together and how much room they will take up
- Try out moving around in it to make sure your mobility isn’t limited at all, even if you aren’t hiking in it
How to pick photogenic hiking clothes for your elopement
- When you’re not in your wedding attire, you’ll be wearing more standard trail fare!
- Opt for neutral colors, as these will look best in photos. Avoid prints and bright colors that will show up differently on camera
- Don’t be afraid to wear accessories, even if you wouldn’t usually! This can make your outfit feel extra special even before you’re in your wedding attire. Don a watch or pop in some earrings to dress up your basics. Make sure you also come with any essential layers you’ll need during your hike (see below for more info!)
- Decorate your backpack if you want to! I’ve had couples tuck flowers into pockets or hang matching signs.
Recommendations for cute & photogenic hiking boots and shoes
Whatever you’re wearing on your feet, make sure it has great tread! Be sure to factor in things like insulation or waterproofing based on your environment. Most hiking boots have a mid to high rise up the leg, which is exactly what you want for optimum comfort & stability.
Many shoe companies now make great options for bridal hiking boots! Just be sure you break in anything you buy new well ahead of time. Wearing new boots on your wedding day will almost certainly result in blisters and discomfort.
Once you’ve selected what shoes you’re wearing, make sure you have hiking-specific socks with padding in the right places and consider getting sock liners to reduce the risk of blisters. These little details go a long way towards making your hiking elopement as comfortable and happy of an experience as it can be!
Essential layers & accessories for hiking elopements
No matter where you are, I always recommend you bring a wind & waterproof jacket in a neutral color! You truly never know what weather you’re going to run into and I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen this come in handy.
If you’re going somewhere cold, bring thermal underwear to wear under an outfit with pants and nude leggings to wear under a dress or outfit with a skirt. This will help with both chafing and warmth! Also make sure you bring an insulated coat in a neutral color, which is great for warming up in between photos in cold locations.
What to bring to your hiking elopement & how to pack
While your packing list will naturally vary from place to place, there are some things that you should bring with you to any hiking elopement. Here are a few things that I would recommend to any couple:
- A high-quality hiking backpack with a hip belt and a waist strap
- Appropriate footwear and socks (see above!)
- Your wedding attire
- Your vows
- Your rings
- Any jewelry or accessories you want to wear
- Any gifts, mementos, heirlooms, or meaningful items
- Things you may need to touch up your hair & makeup (such as hairspray, a compact mirror, concealer, etc.)
- Florals if you have them
- A wind & waterproof layer in a neutral color
- Clear umbrellas in case of rain
- Headlamps with extra batteries
- Nude leggings that match your skin tone (for under a dress or skirt)
- Sun protection such as sunscreen & sunglasses
- Bug spray or wipes
- Plenty of water and packable food and snacks
- A trash bag to pack out any trash
- A picnic blanket with a waterproof side for sitting down and for standing on while changing
- Biffy/WAG bags, extra wipes, & hand sanitizer
- A phone with
- Downloaded Google maps of the area (not just the app!)
- Downloaded/offline trail maps
- Extra portable batteries & a charging cable
- An emergency first aid kid that includes blister bandaids and chaffing powder or cream
- My 10 hiking essentials
- Navigation, sun protection, insulation, illumination, first-aid supplies, fire starter (depending on your local regulations), repair kits & tools, nutrition, hydration, and emergency shelter
- A satellite phone for emergencies (my recommendation is the Garmin inReach Mini 2)
If you’re heading to a cold location, consider adding:
- Close toed footwear with socks
- Warm layers and accessories appropriate for your location that you’ll like in photos (including a coat or shawl, hats or ear warmers, gloves)
- Hand warmers and peel-and-stick body warmers
- Microspikes or other traction devices if there’s a chance of snow or ice on the trail
- A nice thermos full of a warm liquid of your choice
If you’re heading somewhere hot, consider adding:
- A cute sun hat
- Extra water
How to pack a wedding dress into a backpack:
- Fold carefully along any seams
- Roll it up tightly
- Put it in a waterproof bag, like a trash bag
How to pack a suit in a backpack:
- Keep it in a lightweight garment bag
- Either:
- Gently fold or roll the garment bag
- Gently fold & clip the bag to the outside of your backpack
Hiking elopement bouquets:
When picking out florals for a hiking wedding, pick materials that are hardy and can last all-day while exposed to sun, wind, bumps, and not being in water. Stick with greenery, grasses, and strong blooms and avoid fragile flowers or anything that will wilt easily!
How to pack a bouquet in a backpack:
- Get a waterproof bag
- Wrap the stems in a wet paper towel or wet Swedish dishcloth
- Place the stems in the bag and secure with rubber bands
Extra tips for backpacking elopements:
- Be sure you know what you’re signing up for if you plan to carry everything you need for your wedding yourself!
- Weight is already a struggle for some while backpacking given the amount of supplies needed
- The best way to do this is to make the only “extra” things you need your lightweight wedding attire, your rings, and your vows
- Make sure that you also hire a photographer with extensive backpacking experience who knows exactly what gear they can bring along and still photograph your day very well (2 bodies and 2 lenses is pretty much it, and that’s still quite a lot of extra weight!)
- Want to skip the search? You can go straight to my contact form!
- If you’re worried about weight, you can also consider “hut to hut” style hikes that have some amenities included or ethical horse, mule, or llama portering
Speaking of animals…
Bringing your dog on a hiking elopement
As a Coloradan, I know a lot about loving dogs and wanting them to get to see the great outdoors like we do! But there’s a few things to keep in mind to keep your pup safe and make the experience great for them, too.
- Consider their trail experience and fitness level
- Think about what they will do when you’re taking couples portraits and during your ceremony
- Prepare for a backup plan if they’re finding the trail difficult or if they get anxious
- Be sure to pack their supplies, like water and a bowl, food & treats, an appropriate leash for hiking, poop bags, and an extra trash bag
And, if you’re in Colorado, many counties here will actually let your dog sign your wedding license during your elopement with their paw print! It’s called self-solemnization. I’m more than happy to talk you through how this works during a consultation call or you can read more about it in this blog post I wrote on Dog Friendly Elopement Ideas!
Or, if you’re thinking about human guests instead of canines…
Bringing guests on a hiking elopement
Shockingly, some of the considerations for two-legged guests are the same for four-legged ones! First and foremost, consider everyone’s ability for the trail & the experience.
You’ll need to make sure everyone is packed & prepared for the day ahead, especially when it comes to appropriate footwear, layers, plenty of water, snacks, and protection from any elements.
It’s also important to think about the timeline for your elopement, as well. Do you want everyone to stay with you while you get your photos taken, or would you prefer them to hike back down to leave you and your partner with a few moments alone together?
As with the dogs, bring an extra trash bag to make sure everything gets packed out and prepare for a backup plan if anyone is finding the trail too difficult.
Leave No Trace principles for hiking elopements
Any time you’re out in nature, whether you’re eloping or just enjoying yourself, it’s crucial to follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the great outdoors for generations to come and prevent damage to vulnerable ecosystems.
There are 7 Leave No Trace Principles to always keep in mind any time you’re outdoors:
1. Plan ahead & prepare
This can look like making sure that you’re prepared to pack everything out, that you know about reception, that you know about closures and permit rules, are aware of any fire bans, and have maps downloaded.
2. Travel & camp on durable surfaces
Always stay on marked trails and camping on surfaces like dirt, dry grass, or rock so that you can minimize the impact you have on the Earth. Don’t take shortcuts and respect trail closures when they’re in place!
3. Dispose of waste properly
That means all waste. Don’t create trash (even “biodegradable” confetti like birdseed or throwing your bouquet off a cliff) and make sure that all bathroom breaks are properly disposed of in order to keep our waterways clean. Anything you take in with you, make sure you take back out.
4. Leave what you find
No pebble tokens, picked or trampled flowers, or grain of sand. Everything is part of an ecosystem much larger than any of us and everything has an impact, even if you don’t see it. If you love something, tell your photographer and they can snag a picture.
5. Minimize campfire impacts
That means always respecting fire bans when in place and making sure that your fire is in a designated fire ring or area if it is allowed. Keep an eye on winds to protect your natural surroundings and always put out fires and disperse the cooled ashes.
6. Respect wildlife
From tiny rodents to massive mammals, no petting the critters you see on your elopement. Also make sure you’re keeping food away from temptation and that you’re staying bear aware in places where they live.
7. Be considerate of other visitors
Know hiking etiquette and look out for each other. Outdoor spaces are for everyone and if we all cooperate, we can have a great time while taking care of these gorgeous settings. Be friendly and you may even make a pal!
What does a hiking elopement cost?
They are mostly pretty inexpensive! A nice walk through the outdoors is one of the cheapest activities you can do on your wedding day. The only real costs to keep in mind are for gear, entrance fees, parking fees, or photography permits for a specific trail.
Overview
While there can be quite a few things to consider when it comes to hiking elopements, honestly, this is a tried and true classic when it comes to adventure weddings! There’s nothing quite like getting to head out on a trail with your partner that leads to a spectacular place to say your vows. And no matter where you want to elope in the world, if you want a good hike, trust me, you can find one!
I would personally love to take you wherever you want to go during your elopement, whether you hike, helicopter, or take a 4X4 to your ceremony spot. You can come to me for personalized location ideas, packing lists, step-by-step planning guides, and more! Trust me, when it comes to my couples, I never leave any detail skipped. All you have to do is sit back and tell me what you pick! You can contact me here—I would love to hear more about all of your ideas for your elopement.
And if you need more ideas on where to elope or want to do more research into all of the gorgeous places in the world that are possible, you should check out my interactive map! This searchable location database has 600+ hand-picked locations from every corner of the world along with helpful filters so that you can stop Googling and start picking.
See you on the trail!
