Planning an elopement in Glacier National Park is an adventure in itself! Whether you choose to elope inside the park or just outside its borders, On The Fly Films ensures that your day will be full of breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from selecting the perfect location to booking vendors and navigating permits—and together we can plan a stress-free, stunning elopement in one of the most beautiful places on earth.
How To Have Elopements in Glacier National Park…
1- Decide Your Location
The first big decision is whether you want to elope inside Glacier National Park or just outside of it.
Eloping within the park requires a Standard Use Permit, which comes with a $125 fee. While the park offers breathtaking scenery, there are some regulations to keep in mind. The park has designated ceremony locations, guidelines on how to access them, and limitations on the number of guests. You can find all the details, including the list of permitted locations, on the National Park’s website.
If you’d prefer something a little more off the beaten path, consider eloping just outside of Glacier National Park. As local elopement experts, we know plenty of beautiful spots on public and state lands. With an experienced guide, you can enjoy a private, adventurous elopement, without the crowds, while still capturing those iconic Glacier views.
2. Book Your Vendors
- Photography (1–12 months in advance): Start planning early to secure your preferred photographer.
- Videography (same timeline as photography): Consider booking both photography and videography together! This streamlines communication and ensures your visuals are cohesive. Opting for a package deal can save time and stress. Plus, you’ll get a team that works well together for a seamless experience.
- Florals (1–6 months in advance): Begin floral arrangements closer to your date for fresh and timely designs.
- Cake: Optional, but some couples love keeping this tradition alive!
- Officiant: Choose someone experienced, have a loved one officiate, or even marry yourselves. Montana offers incredible flexibility for elopements—it’s a self-solemnizing state, meaning you can marry yourselves without an officiant. No witnesses required either, making it as intimate as you wish—even your dog can sign the marriage license!
3. Apply for Your Flathead County Marriage License
You can apply for your marriage license easily online, here!
It’s really that simple! Of course, navigating Glacier National Park comes with its own set of challenges—like knowing how to get in, the best driving routes, ideal locations, seasons, and unpredictable weather. However, when you book with On The Fly Films, you can relax. No matter the weather, your elopement will be breathtaking! I will be with you every step of the way to ensure the day is perfectly planned!
A Real On The Fly Films Elopement in Glacier National Park:
Haley and Brendin did just that—they hired us and let us help plan their perfect day. They brought a few close friends and family and chose a location just outside Glacier National Park, with plans to adventure inside afterward. However, when a huge thunderstorm rolled through, Plan A (heading to the top of Going-to-the-Sun Road for photos) quickly turned into Plan B (finding a spot where it wasn’t raining or thundering). And let me tell you, Plan B was just as epic! We had a blast chasing the sunset and navigating the infamous road construction that plagued GNP from 2020 to 2023. We don’t even need to mention how amazing their vows were and how absolutely in love they are.
What Haley had to say about her Elopement in Glacier National Park With Us:
“As a couple from Michigan planning a wedding in Glacier National Park, we knew it would be a challenge, but from the moment we connected with Erin, everything fell into place. She was not only quick to respond, but incredibly thoughtful and helpful, offering advice on everything from ceremony locations to providing us with information on how and where to get our marriage license. Her expertise and willingness to guide us through the process made our experience stress-free.
One of the things we loved most about working with Erin was how comfortable she made us feel in front of the camera. Wedding photos can sometimes feel staged or awkward, but with Erin, it felt like we were just enjoying the moment together. She has a way of making you feel at ease, and our time in front of the lens was natural, relaxed, and fun. We weren’t focused on posing; it was truly about capturing us as we are.
When we received our gallery and video, we were absolutely blown away. We knew GNP would provide a beautiful backdrop, but Erin managed to capture something far deeper. Every moment was documented so perfectly, and it wasn’t just the beauty of the place—it was the love we have for each other that she somehow brought to life through the photos. And the video? Absolutely breathtaking. We rewatch it often, and it still gives us chills. The way Erin crafted the story of our day through film is something we will treasure forever.
We couldn’t have asked for a better photographer or a more incredible experience. Erin didn’t just capture our wedding—she captured who we are. We’ll forever be grateful for the memories she created for us!”
In closing…
As I write this, Haley and Brendin are about to welcome a beautiful baby into the world! I couldn’t be more excited for them! Their love story has blossomed into a growing family, and this is exactly why I love what I do. Capturing these special moments in my beloved home and witnessing your love continue to grow is so, so meaningful to me.
Follow us on Instagram for more Glacier National Park elopements!
Vendor Credits:
Photo and video by us!
Officiant: Bride’s father
Ceremony Location: Outside of GNP
Lodging: AirBnB on Whitefish Mountain Resort
Hair and Makeup: @trina_cowden_hair & @alyssa.sears.beauty
