9 Unique Elopement Ideas That Will Make You Want to Elope Right Now

Take a helicopter to a glacier? Spend a night in a yurt under the Utah stars? These are the best and most unique elopement ideas you’ll find. 

Unique Elopement Ideas

If you search online for elopement ideas, you’re probably going to find a lot of articles that talk about things like wearing a fun colored dress for your elopement, or why you should do a first look, etc., etc.

Let me start by saying this is NOT one of those articles. This is a different kind of blog post about elopement ideas. 

One that will actually inspire you and get you excited about what is possible for an elopement day.

A fair warning–these elopements ideas are going to make you want to go out and elope right NOW.

Slot Canyon Adventure and Yurts in Zion

Does the thought of Antelope Canyon call your name, but the crowds making you cringe?

Head to Utah and book yourself a dream canyoneering tour with East Zion Experiences. You’ll have a private tour starting on a UTV, followed by hiking and rappelling through the slot canyons.

Then when you’re ready to call it a night, you can go back to your glamping yurt or treehouse with views for miles at East Zion Resort.

Helicopter Ride to a Glacier in Alaska

Are glaciers more your thing, rather than the desert? Head to Alaska, known as The Last Frontier.

If you’re looking for a great place to stay, Knik River Lodge is extremely convenient, since Alaska Helicopter Tours leaves directly from the property.

Or you might consider Hatcher Pass Lodge, which is another fun and adventurous option.

Sky Dome Hotel and Hike in Glacier National Park

Gazing up at the stars through the roof of your clear sky geodome, while you and your partner gear up for a sunrise hike in Glacier National Park. Sound like a dream elopement day? Yeah, I thought so too!

When I found the Clear Sky Resort geodomes near Glacier National Park, I knew this would be perfect for many couples wanting to plan a Glacier National Park elopement.

Hiking options in Glacier National Park are endless, but here are some ideas to get your started.

Jeeping and Fall Foliage near Telluride, Colorado

The San Juan mountain range runs through the southwest corner of Colorado, and is unlike any other I’ve seen in the U.S. There are reds and greens running through the mountains, from the minerals that originally drew miners to the area.

While this area has stunning hikes to offer, a lot of the paths and roads are just old mining roads, which means they can be quite rough. These paths are steep and a lot of the hiking here is difficult, making it a prime place to give off-roading a try via Jeep or other ATV. Try Telluride Offroad Adventures for a great experience.

One of my favorite times of year in this area is the fall, when the foliage is second to none. Learn more about Telluride elopements here.

Camping Wedding at Canyonlands

Looking for a chill weekend of camping with friends and family for your wedding? I have got a great spot that you’ll definitely want to consider in Canyonlands National Park.

This site is one of the coolest campsite I’ve ever been to. Don’t let the lack of information or cool photos online about this site deter you. This campground is set back from the dirt road and has to be reserved so you have complete privacy.

There is a large split in the top of the rock that covers your campsite, hence the name Split Top Campsite. From your tent you can look up at the stars through the crack in the top of this cave.

Keep in mind this campsite is for between 11 and 15 people, so your party will need to be for a group of this size to reserve this area. Also, plan to reserve early, as reservations go fast.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park has become a very popular place to elope due to its unparalleled views. The landscapes are unique and recognizable. There are both accessible and hiking options in this park, whether you prefer to have an adventurous elopement or not.

If you’re looking for a place to stay with great views and luxury, you’ll want to check out The Ahwahnee Hotel. Make sure you book well in advance, as this hotel fills up very early!

Glamping and Horseback Riding in Great Smoky Mountain National Park

Although a lot of the elopement ideas on this list are in the western half of the United States, there are some great options on the eastern side too!

Like the gorgeous glamping set ups from Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains, complete with West Elm furnishings in your upscale private tent.

During your stay, you can visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and partake in activities like hiking, horseback riding, or just making smores around a campfire.

Camp at a Fire Lookout with Stunning Views in the Pacific Northwest

One of the more unique things I’ve found in the Pacific Northwest is that you can actually reserve and camp inside small cabins that are fire lookouts in the national forests here. There are usually some basic accommodations like a stove and small refrigerator.

But the best part? The views are fantastic!

A couple options to consider are Evergreen Mountain Lookout in Washington or Green Ridge Lookout in Oregon.

Art Murals and Hot Air Balloons in Albuquerque

Camping and hiking is not everyone’s cup of tea. No problem! You can still have a unique elopement day regardless of your style. And this elopement idea is a great example of that.

Albuquerque, New Mexico is known as the hot air balloon capital capital of the world. Every fall, they have a massive hot air balloon festival, and it is a sight to behold.

Keep the colorful theme going by staying at Nativo Lodge, where 47 of their rooms have a unique painted mural. This is definitely a place that will make your getting ready photos special.

These elopement ideas are just the beginning…

It’s hard for me to imagine someone not liking the elopement ideas on this list, but I can tell you that these ideas are just the beginning.

The best thing about eloping is that you can do anything you can possibly imagine. And although the specifics vary from one couple to the next, these ideas are exactly the type of elopement day I can help you plan.

As your elopement photographer, I consider it my personal mission to help you find the elopement idea that calls to you. The one that just FEELS right for you and your partner, and represents all the things that are most important to you.

In fact, one of the first things I do for my booked couples is send them the Wild and Found VIP Client Elopement & Microwedding Planning Guide. This exclusive guide is over 90 pages and helps you with every aspect of planning your elopement, including brainstorming and how to make it the best day you’ve literally ever had!

As someone who eloped myself, I’m so passionate about helping couples make their elopement dreams come to life. Get in touch and let’s chat more about your vision. I can’t wait to hear more!

Are you planning an elopement?

I’m more than just a photographer. Helping couples create their dream day is what I do best!

Get in touch and let’s chat about your vision!

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