How to Elope in Alaska: An Epic Adventure Elopement Planning Guide

If you dream of exchanging your vows amidst breathtaking natural landscapes and captivating wilderness, Alaska offers an unparalleled setting for a truly unforgettable adventure elopement! With its stunning mountains, pristine glaciers, and awe-inspiring national parks, the Last Frontier offers an abundance of options for couples seeking a unique and adventurous wedding. In this blog post, I will guide you through the process of planning your dream elopement in Alaska, from choosing the perfect location to navigating legal requirements. I’m so grateful to be an Alaska elopement photographer and can’t wait to adventure with you into the epic wilderness!

1. Choosing the Ideal Location:

   Alaska boasts a diverse range of landscapes, each offering its own distinct charm. From the dramatic peaks of the Denali National Park to the captivating glaciers of Kenai Fjords National Park, there is a location to suit every couple’s vision. Consider your preferences, whether it’s a mountaintop ceremony, a coastal celebration, or a secluded forest setting. Research various regions and their unique features to find the perfect spot that resonates with your desires.

2. Timing Your Elopement:

   Alaska experiences extreme seasonal variations, so choosing the right time of year for your elopement is crucial. Summers offer extended daylight hours, wildflowers in bloom, and warmer temperatures, making them the most popular choice. However, shoulder seasons like spring and fall can provide more privacy and dramatic landscapes. Keep in mind that winter elopements offer a magical, snow-covered backdrop, but they require careful planning and preparation.

3. Planning the Logistics:

   Permits and Legalities – Obtain the necessary permits and licenses for your elopement ceremony. Research the specific requirements based on the location you choose and contact the appropriate authorities or park services to ensure compliance with regulations.
   Vendors and Services – Decide whether you want to hire a wedding planner, photographer, or other vendors. Alaska has a rich network of talented professionals experienced in elopements, so do thorough research, read reviews, and communicate your vision clearly to find the right team to bring it to life.
   Accommodation and Transportation – Consider the logistics of reaching your chosen location and plan accommodation accordingly. Alaska offers a range of options, from cozy cabins to luxury lodges, ensuring a comfortable stay amidst nature’s splendor.

4. Embracing Adventure:

   Alaska is renowned for its adventurous spirit, so incorporate elements of excitement and exploration into your elopement. Consider activities like helicopter tours, wildlife watching, hiking, or dog sledding to add an extra dash of adventure to your special day. Embrace the untamed wilderness and let it become an integral part of your love story.

5. Capturing the Magic:

   Don’t forget to document this extraordinary day. Hire an Alaska adventure elopement photographer who specializes in outdoor weddings to capture the beauty of your elopement (that’s me!). They can guide you to the best locations, utilize natural lighting, and create stunning imagery that will allow you to relive these cherished moments for years to come.

Eloping in Alaska provides an unrivaled opportunity to blend adventure, intimacy, and natural beauty into a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The Last Frontier offers an abundance of breathtaking locations, from towering mountains to majestic glaciers, ensuring that your elopement is both awe-inspiring and deeply personal. By planning ahead, understanding legal requirements, and embracing the spirit of adventure, you can create a wedding day that reflects your unique love story in the heart of nature’s grandeur. So, get ready to embark on a remarkable journey as you say “I do” amidst Alaska’s awe-inspiring landscapes.

Alaska Adventure Elopement Locations & Activities

1. Denali National Park

Home to North America’s tallest peak, Denali National Park is a majestic location for an elopement. Exchange your vows against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains, expansive valleys, and pristine wilderness. Consider a helicopter ride to land on a mountain peak, allowing you to have an intimate ceremony surrounded by breathtaking panoramas.

Embark on a wildlife tour to spot grizzly bears, moose, caribou, and other native species. Go hiking or take a scenic flight to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of Denali from above.

2. Kenai Peninsula (Homer, Seward, & Cooper Landing)

Located on the stunning Kenai Peninsula in Alaska, Homer and Seward add a touch of charm and diversity to elopements and adventures in this breathtaking region. Homer, often referred to as the “Halibut Fishing Capital of the World,” is a picturesque town known for its artistic community, idyllic beaches, and mesmerizing sunsets. Couples can exchange vows against the backdrop of the famous Homer Spit, a long, narrow strip of land jutting into Kachemak Bay, offering unparalleled views of mountains, glaciers, and the sparkling ocean.

Seward, a historic port city nestled between towering peaks and the vast Resurrection Bay, offers an abundance of outdoor activities for adventurous couples. The town’s proximity to the Kenai Fjords National Park opens up opportunities for thrilling excursions, such as boat tours to witness majestic glaciers calving into the sea, spotting wildlife like whales and otters, and hiking amidst breathtaking wilderness.

Both Homer and Seward provide an array of accommodation options, from cozy cabins to waterfront lodges, allowing couples to relax and immerse themselves in the untamed beauty of the Kenai Peninsula. Whether you choose the artistic allure of Homer or the adventurous spirit of Seward, both towns promise an unforgettable elopement and the chance to create lasting memories as you embark on an extraordinary journey together in this Alaskan paradise.

3. Brooks Range

For couples seeking a remote and untouched wilderness experience, the Brooks Range offers seclusion and rugged beauty. This mountain range provides a remarkable backdrop with dramatic peaks, expansive tundra, and winding rivers.

Go on a backcountry adventure, hiking through the untouched landscapes and camping under the starry sky. Explore the unique flora and fauna of the region, including the chance to spot elusive wildlife like wolves, muskoxen, and golden eagles.

4. Inside Passage

The Inside Passage, a stunning coastal route dotted with islands and fjords, presents an enchanting backdrop for an elopement. This region is known for its lush rainforests, charming coastal towns, and incredible wildlife.

Consider chartering a boat or seaplane to reach a secluded island for your ceremony. Go whale watching, witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights, or explore the charming towns along the passage, such as Juneau and Ketchikan.

5. Chugach Mountains

Located near Anchorage, the Chugach Mountains offer a convenient yet breathtaking elopement location. With towering peaks, alpine meadows, and pristine lakes, this region provides a captivating setting for your special day.

Plan a helicopter tour to land on a mountaintop for an intimate ceremony with panoramic views. Enjoy activities like skiing, snowshoeing, or hiking through the picturesque landscapes. Don’t forget to visit the nearby Portage Glacier and enjoy the stunning scenery it offers.

6. Matanuska Glacier

The Matanuska Glacier, located in the Matanuska-Susitna Valley, offers a unique and awe-inspiring elopement     setting. This massive glacier stretches over 26 miles and provides an otherworldly backdrop with its icy blue hues and striking formations.

Explore the glacier by taking a guided tour or hike along its icy terrain. Capture stunning photographs on the glacier’s surface and experience the thrill of being in the presence of such natural grandeur.

7. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve

Wrangell, situated in the heart of the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, is a hidden gem for adventurous elopements. This remote town offers a blend of wilderness, history, and stunning landscapes.

Explore the vast wilderness through hiking trails or take a scenic flight to witness the grandeur of the Wrangell Mountains. Visit the historic Kennecott Mine, an abandoned copper mining town that provides a unique backdrop for photos.

8. Hatcher Pass

Located in the Talkeetna Mountains, Hatcher Pass is a picturesque and less-traveled location for an elopement. This scenic mountain pass offers breathtaking views of alpine meadows, wildflowers, and stunning peaks.

Explore the area by hiking along the picturesque trails or go horseback riding through the meadows. Capture stunning photographs against the backdrop of rugged mountains and explore the nearby Independence Mine State Historical Park for a touch of history.

9. Kenai Fjords National Park

If you envision a coastal elopement with stunning glaciers and abundant marine life, Kenai Fjords National Park is the perfect choice. Say your vows with glaciers calving in the distance and enjoy the serenity of the pristine fjords.

Take a boat tour to witness the majestic tidewater glaciers up close and spot humpback whales, sea lions, and puffins. Consider kayaking through the serene waters, immersing yourself in the tranquility of this breathtaking location.

Alaska is a treasure trove of diverse landscapes, each offering its own unique charm and beauty. Whether you prefer the rugged peaks of Denali, the serene coastlines of Kenai Fjords, the remote wilderness of the Brooks Range, the enchanting Inside Passage, Matanuska Glacier, Hatcher Pass, or the convenient accessibility of the Chugach Mountains, Alaska has something for every couple’s elopement dreams. Combine these breathtaking locations with adventurous activities like wildlife tours, hiking, kayaking, or helicopter and float plane rides to create an unforgettable and truly magical wedding day. Embrace the spirit of adventure and let Alaska become the backdrop for your love story!

How to get married in Alaska!

You gotta make it official and get your marriage license. Here’s some info to help get you started!

Download the marriage license application here, pay the $60 fee, fill out and mail it to the Vital records office in Anchorage or Juneau; or an Alaskan court.

You will also need an officiant and two witnesses to make the marriage official in Alaska. You can hire a local officiant, bring along a family member or friend, or have me marry you! I am ordained through the Universal Life Church and I include officiant services in all of my elopement packages. Contact me and let’s get started!

Alaska Adventure Elopement Packages

Most of my couples are looking for a full day adventure in Alaska for their elopement. Below is an example of a typical adventure elopement package in Alaska. You can also check out the pricing page on my website for more options and details!

Full Day Adventure Elopement Package in Alaska

• Best for couples that want a full day experience to capture getting ready photos at your cabin, first look, adventuring multiple locations, and anything else your heart desires! Also great for intimate weddings with family and friends!
• 8 hours photo coverage
• Elopement Planning Guide
• Unlimited planning assistance and help with locations, timelines, permits, and vendor recommendations
• High Resolution Digital Images
• Private online gallery to view, download, print, and share images
• 8×8 custom designed wedding book
• Champagne and granola bars 🙂
• Starts at $6500

Alaska Helicopter and Float Plane Elopements

Imagine this 🙂 a helicopter flying over majestic glaciers or soaring above snow-capped mountains, offering an awe-inspiring backdrop as vows are exchanged. Or a float plane gently gliding on serene waters, revealing secluded, hidden lakes or remote islands for an intimate ceremony. These elopements embody the spirit of adventure and romance, allowing couples to create a once in a lifetime experience to begin their journey together as a married couple. The rugged landscape of Alaska combined with the thrilling adventure of flying high or floating peacefully creates memories that will be cherished for a lifetime. Book your helicopter or float plane elopement today!

Check out these tour companies below and start dreaming about your helicopter or float plane elopement!

Seward Helicopter Tours
Alaska Helicopter Tours
Alaska Bush Float Plane Tours
Alaska Shore Excursions
Scenic Mountain Air

Ready to book your Alaska adventure elopement (or intimate wedding) and have a once in a lifetime experience?! Contact me and let’s go on an adventure!