Where to Elope in Alaska
Where to Elope in Alaska
Ultimate Guide to the 7 Best Alaska Elopement Locations
Table of Contents:
Why eloping in Alaska is the ultimate adventurous destination
Factors to consider when choosing an elopement location in Alaska
Where to elope in Alaska (7 of the best places, in no particular order)
Girdwood
Seward & Kenai Fjords National Park
Knik Glacier
Hatcher Pass
Byron Glacier & Portage Lake area
Denali National Park
Mendenhall Glacier
Bonus location: Matanuska Glacier
Tips for planning an elopement in Alaska (permits, weather & logistics)
Can a non-resident get married in Alaska?
Do I need a witness to get married in Alaska?
When is the best time of year to get married in Alaska?
Alaska elopement packages
Are you looking for a wedding experience that is anything but ordinary? Heck yes! You’ve made it to the right place.
Do you crave adventure, stunning landscapes, and a unique celebration for your elopement day? Look no further than Alaska, the perfect destination for couples seeking an unforgettable elopement experience.
With its vast wilderness, breathtaking mountains and plentiful wildlife, Alaska offers endless opportunities for a truly magical wedding experience. So, that inevitably raises the question of where to elope in Alaska…
In this blog, I’m sharing 7 of the best places to elope in Alaska (coming from a seasoned Alaska photographer!) as well as factors to consider when choosing a location and essential tips for planning your dream elopement in the Last Frontier.
Private boat charter elopement out of Seward, Alaska
Why eloping in Alaska is the ultimate unique & adventurous option
Eloping in Alaska is not your typical wedding experience.
Instead of a crowded venue and a long guest list, you and your partner can exchange vows in the midst of jaw-dropping nature, surrounded by the beauty of towering mountains, glacial ice, waterfalls and more.
Imagine saying 'I do' with a glacier and vibrant blue pools as your backdrop, or exchanging rings under the dancing Northern Lights. Alaska offers an unmatched sense of adventure and romance that is - quite honestly - hard to find anywhere else.
One of the main reasons why Alaska is a popular choice for elopements is its breathtaking landscapes. That’s the true appeal of this wild state, after all! There is no shortage of breathtaking backdrops for your special day.
And with its vast wilderness, you can make certain that your elopement will be an intimate and private affair, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: your love for each other and the epic experience of your elopement day.
Helicopter elopement near Palmer, Alaska
Factors to consider when choosing an elopement location in Alaska
When choosing an elopement location in Alaska, there are a few key factors to consider.
First and foremost, think about the type of scenery you envision for your special day. Do you want to be surrounded by towering mountains, lush forests, or sparkling glaciers? Consider the different regions of Alaska and what they have to offer in terms of natural beauty.
Another important factor to consider is accessibility. Some remote locations may require hiking or flying in, while others are easily accessible by car or boat. Think about how adventurous you want to be on the day-of, and how much effort you are able to put into reaching your dream elopement location.
Lastly, consider the time of year and the weather conditions. Alaska is known for its unpredictable weather, so it's essential to choose a season that aligns with your preferences and comfort level. Whether you prefer a snowy winter wonderland or a mild summer amidst the wildflowers and the midnight sun, Alaska has something for everyone.
Elopement at the top of Portage Pass in Whittier
The 7 Best Alaska Elopement Locations
Alaska offers a seemingly endless list of stunning locations for elopements, which can make it very hard to narrow down what you’re looking for. But don’t stress, there are no bad options!
To help with the decision process, I’ve put together this list of the 7 best places to elope in Alaska. Let’s dive in!
1. Girdwood, Alaska
Located just 40 miles south of Anchorage, Girdwood is a charming mountain town nestled in the Chugach State Park. With its picturesque scenery and easy accessibility, this is a very popular choice for couples looking to elope in Alaska.
Girdwood has a huge variety of stunning locations, from mountaintop vistas via the Alyeska Aerial Tram to scenic waterfalls (make sure to check out Virgin Creek Falls), making it a super versatile and beautiful option for your elopement day.
Coming from Anchorage, you’ll be taking one of the most beautiful drives in America along the Turnagain Arm. There are also plenty of beautiful locations right along this drive! Bird Point is a fantastic setting right on the water, but be sure to check the tides, as the best (secret!) ceremony location at this site is covered in water for part of the day.
Virgin Creek Falls elopement in Girdwood
2. Seward, Alaska & Kenai Fjords National Park
If you're dreaming of a coastal elopement, look no further than the Seward, Alaska area and Kenai Fjords National Park. This picturesque town is known for its stunning mountains along the ocean, epic glaciers, and abundant marine wildlife.
Imagine exchanging vows on a secluded beach, with snow-capped mountains and sparkling turquoise waters as your backdrop. Yes, this is possible! Miller’s Landing operates a wedding and elopement private water taxi charter that can drop you off at your own private beach for a wedding day in the wilderness.
If you’re seeking a glacier backdrop, consider hiking out to the viewpoint of Exit Glacier, trekking further to epic views of the Harding Icefield, or even taking a helicopter flight out to a once-in-a-lifetime glacier dog sledding experience.
Want to go all out with a multi-day elopement celebration? Consider a helicopter excursion to the yurts at Bear Glacier. What could be better than waking up on your wedding day to glacier views out in the wilderness?!
Take a peek at this private boat adventure elopement in Seward for inspiration:
Click here: Private Boat Adventure Elopement in Seward Alaska
Elopement at Salted Roots Cabins in Seward
Private boat charter elopement near Seward
3. Knik Glacier
For a truly epic elopement experience, consider Knik Glacier. Located just an hour's drive from Anchorage, the Alaska Glacier Lodge (Alaska Helicopter Tours’ home base) will serve as your jumping point for accessing the glacier.
This massive glacier offers an absolutely breathtaking setting for your adventurous elopement day. You can choose to exchange vows on the glacier itself (beside a gatorade blue glacier pool in the summertime!) or opt for a helicopter landing on a nearby remote mountaintop for a panoramic view of the glacier and surrounding mountains.
Knik Glacier is one of my personal favorite locations, especially in early September when the glacier ice is nestled between a vibrant display of deep reds, burnt oranges and golden yellows that sweep across the towering mountains.
Take a peek at these Knik Glacier helicopter elopements for inspiration:
Click here: Alaska Glacier Elopement: A Vibrant Fall Helicopter Adventure
Click here: Summer Alaska Helicopter Elopement on a Glacier
Knik Glacier elopements in various seasons
4. Hatcher Pass
Nestled in the Talkeetna Mountains, Hatcher Pass is a true gem that offers sweeping mountain views, alpine lakes, and colorful wildflowers when in-season. With its rugged beauty and easily accessible location, Hatcher Pass is perfect for couples seeking a secluded and intimate elopement without having to venture too far into the Alaskan wilderness.
You could opt to hike to a mountaintop, like the April Bowl Trail, or say your vows in a peaceful meadow without any hiking required. Maybe lakes are your vibe? Gold Cord Lake is an epic backdrop that requires only a short trek to reach. No matter the exact type of backdrop, Hatcher Pass will absolutely deliver.
Early summer elopement in Hatcher Pass
5. Byron Glacier & Portage Lake area
If you're looking for a location that combines mountains and glaciers (and is also accessible by foot!) look no further than Byron Glacier and the Portage Lake area.
Located just about one hour south of Anchorage, the Byron Glacier trail is a stunning location option with easy accessibility and breathtaking glacier scenery.
For something arguably even more dramatic, try the Portage Pass trail! This is accessible from the Whittier side of the mountain tunnel, and the 4 mile round-trip trail brings you to an incredible mountain pass with 360 degree views before you descend to the beach on Portage Lake with up-close views of Portage Glacier.
Byron Glacier elopement
Portage Glacier via the Portage Pass hike
6. Denali National Park
No list of the best places to elope in Alaska would be complete without mentioning Denali National Park. Home to North America's highest peak, Denali offers unparalleled beauty and adventure.
Maybe you’ll choose to elope with a jaw-dropping hike into the accessible part of the park, at Savage River or the Riley Creek area.
Or exchange vows in front of the Denali summit (flightseeing tour required, and it’s worth it!). K2 Aviation offers flightseeing tours that touch down on Ruth Glacier, where you’ll be surrounded by the incredible views of the Sheldon Amphitheater.
This national park will provide a backdrop that is truly iconic. Denali National Park is a must-visit destination for couples seeking an unforgettable elopement in Alaska.
Fall elopement in Denali National Park
7. Mendenhall Glacier
Located just a short drive from downtown Juneau, Mendenhall Glacier is a popular choice for couples looking to elope in Southeast Alaska. This massive glacier offers a backdrop of icy blue hues and rugged mountains. One of the most popular and easily accessible viewpoints is from Skater’s Cabin, giving you access to a beautiful beach by Mendenhall Lake. Take it a step further with a glacier helicopter landing, or even a glacier dog sledding experience on Mendenhall Glacier.
Right nearby, you’ll also find the epic Nugget Falls - a perfect backdrop for your adventurous elopement day in Juneau. Imagine saying 'I do' with the sound of cracking ice and the sight of cascading waterfalls in the distance! A dream.
Glacier blue pools from above
Bonus: Matanuska Glacier
Matanuska Glacier is nestled in the picturesque Matanuska-Susitna Valley of Alaska, roughly 93 miles north of Anchorage. Spanning an incredible 27 miles in length and 4 miles in width at its terminus, this super easily accessible glacier offers a dreamy backdrop for intimate ceremonies.
The opportunity to exchange vows amidst the beauty of glacial ice, with the option for adventurous activities like ice climbing and guided glacier hikes, makes this a unique elopement location in Alaska.
Matanuska Glacier is accessed by going through private land, so prior “tour” arrangements (privately guided) are required to walk out onto the glacier. This is actually a wonderful opportunity to have a knowledgeable guide show you the most epic places within the accessible glacier area!
Matanuska Glacier elopement
Tips for planning an elopement in Alaska (permits, weather and logistics)
Planning your elopement in Alaska will require careful consideration of permits, weather conditions and logistics. But let’s not overcomplicate it! Here are a few tips to help you navigate the planning process:
Permits
Depending on your chosen location, you may need permits for your elopement. Some areas, such as national parks and wildlife refuges, require special permits for weddings and ceremonies. Make sure to research the specific requirements for your desired location and apply for permits well in advance.
PS. This planning guidance is included in all of my Alaska elopement photography packages!
Weather
Alaska's weather can be unpredictable, to say the least, so it's super important to plan for anything that mother nature might throw at you.
Keep an eye on the forecast and be prepared for sudden changes in temperature and conditions. Dress in layers (or pack extra layers) and bring appropriate gear (such as micro-spikes) to ensure your comfort throughout the day. If you're planning a winter elopement, consider buying or renting new cold-weather gear to stay warm in the extreme temperatures.
Here are a few essential items to pack for your elopement day in Alaska.
And if we’re working together for your big day, you receive a full packing checklist during the planning process!
Logistics
Alaska is a very very very large state with limited infrastructure in certain areas. Consider the logistics of reaching your chosen location, especially if it requires hiking or flying in.
Research transportation options, accommodation, nearby amenities and any additional services you may need beforehand. It's also a good idea to hire a local guide or planner (or photographer! Hey there 👋) who is familiar with the area and can assist you in making your elopement day a seamless and stress-free experience.
Summer helicopter elopement on Knik Glacier
Frequently asked questions about eloping in Alaska:
Can a non-resident get married in Alaska?
Absolutely! The state allows non-residents to obtain an Alaska marriage license and marry anywhere in the state, making it an ideal choice for adventurous couples seeking a unique and unforgettable wedding experience.
Do I need a witness to get married in Alaska?
Alaska's marriage laws do require the presence of at least one witness during your ceremony. This witness can be anyone who is at least 18 years old and is not a party to the marriage. As your elopement photographer, I can also serve as a witness, ensuring that your best day ever is not only beautifully captured, but also legally documented.
When is the best time of year to get married in Alaska?
Alaska experiences very diverse climates throughout the year, so the best time to elope really depends on your preferences!
Summer, from June to August, offers milder temperatures and long daylight hours (midnight sun months are the dream!), allowing for outdoor ceremonies amid blooming wildflowers and snow-capped mountains at nearly any hour of the day.
Fall is very short-lived in Alaska, but is one of the most incredible and colorful times of year. Everything from the mountain tundra to the treetops transforms into goldens, reds and oranges, painting the landscape like something from a dream.
Or, if you love the idea of a winter wonderland wedding with the possibility of witnessing the Northern Lights, the colder months from November to March might be perfect for you.
Winter elopement in Hatcher Pass
Fall helicopter elopement above Knik Glacier
Alaska elopement packages
If the idea of planning your own elopement seems overwhelming, don't worry! I would love to help you plan your dream Alaska elopement day from start to finish.
This blog post has truly only scratched the surface of what Alaska has to offer, which is why all of my couples have unlimited planning guidance included with their Alaska elopement photography package. Your elopement day should feel exciting, authentic to you, and stress-free! Let’s make sure you have the experience of a lifetime.
Click here to explore the elopement packages and get in touch start planning your dream elopement in the Last Frontier!
