Planning a Glacier wedding is an absolute dream, however it can also feel overwhelming if you do not know where to start. That is exactly why I created this elopement planning checklist to keep you organized, intentional, and completely stress free. After all, between permits, seasons, road access, timelines, and travel logistics, there is a lot to think through. Still, when you have everything written out clearly, it becomes so much easier.

So save this. Screenshot it. Come back to it often. You got this!

GNP Elopement Planning Checklist

9–18 Months Before Your Elopement

☐ Decide that Glacier National Park is the place
☐ Choose your overall elopement vibe (intimate, adventurous, relaxed, guest free, etc.)
☐ Pick a general season (spring, summer, fall, or winter)
☐ Set a realistic budget
☐ Research Glacier access by season (road openings and closures matter)
☐ Hire your Glacier National Park elopement photographer
☐ Start talking through ceremony locations and backup options
☐ Narrow down your ceremony location options
☐ Apply for your Glacier National Park wedding permit
☐ Decide on sunrise, mid day, or sunset
☐ Choose weekday or weekend

At this point, this stage of your elopement planning checklist is foundational. Because location access, timing, privacy, and permits all connect, having a photographer who knows Glacier makes everything smoother. I always tell couples that once this part is locked in, the stress drops immediately!

6–9 Months Before

☐ Book your officiant
☐ Book hair and makeup if desired
☐ Start thinking about lodging options
☐ Begin guest conversations if you are inviting anyone

Pro tip: weekday elopements almost always mean fewer crowds and a calmer experience. Additionally, this is where my all inclusive package truly helps. Instead of juggling vendors and logistics, you get to focus on the fun parts!

4–6 Months Before

☐ Book lodging (hotel, lodge, Airbnb, or VRBO)
☐ Book flights if traveling from out of state
☐ Plan travel logistics within the park
☐ Start thinking about attire and footwear
☐ Plan your elopement day timeline

Glacier is massive, so travel time between locations matters more than most couples expect. Therefore, timeline planning is key. At this point in your elopement planning checklist, I also encourage couples to think about how they want their day to feel, not just how it will look. Do you want quiet lake time? A scenic picnic? A celebratory dinner after? Those moments matter.

2–3 Months Before

☐ Choose a backup location in case of weather or closures
☐ Confirm vendor bookings
☐ Start writing your vows
☐ Look into Glacier vehicle entry requirements for your date
☐ Decide how you will celebrate after the ceremony

Because weather in Glacier changes quickly, flexibility becomes your superpower. As a result, couples who plan for options enjoy their day so much more.

1 Month Before

☐ Confirm permit approval
☐ Check road status and seasonal access updates
☐ Order vow books or detail items
☐ Break in your hiking boots
☐ Confirm lodging, flights, and rental car
☐ Make dinner reservations if needed

This is the double check everything phase of your elopement planning checklist. You are almost there, which is such an exciting feeling!

1 Week Before

☐ Check the weather forecast
☐ Pack layers for all temperatures
☐ Confirm vendor arrival times
☐ Print or download copies of your permit
☐ Pack or purchase bear spray
☐ Charge all devices and pack portable chargers
☐ Finish vows and store them somewhere safe

As a result, prepared couples feel calm. Calm couples stay present. It really is that simple.

What to Pack for Your Glacier Elopement | GNP Elopement Planning Checklist

☐ Marriage license
☐ Ceremony permit
☐ Water bottles
☐ Snacks or lunch
☐ Comfortable hiking shoes
☐ Extra layers and warm gear
☐ Umbrella
☐ Bear spray
☐ Bug spray
☐ Headlamp or flashlight
☐ Touch up makeup
☐ Vow books
☐ Detail items (rings, heirlooms, map, etc.)
☐ Phone charger or battery pack

When you are prepared, you can fully enjoy the experience instead of worrying about small details.

Elopement Day Checklist

☐ Eat breakfast
☐ Drink water
☐ Take your time getting ready
☐ Bring permit and marriage license
☐ Follow Leave No Trace principles
☐ Stay flexible and present
☐ Soak it all in

After their ceremony, one of my couples once looked at each other and said, “This feels like us.” That is always the goal. Your day is about your love, not perfection.

After the Elopement

☐ Celebrate your marriage
☐ Enjoy your adventure together
☐ Share the news with family and friends
☐ Change your name if applicable
☐ Order prints and albums
☐ Relive your day through your photos

Want This Elopement Planning Checklist Planned For You?

If you are reading this and thinking you love the idea of Glacier but do not want to manage every moving part yourself, that is exactly why I offer an all inclusive Glacier National Park elopement experience. From permits and locations to vendors and timelines, I guide you through your entire elopement planning checklist so everything feels easy and meaningful.

If you are ready to start planning your Glacier National Park elopement, I would absolutely love to photograph it for you. Let’s create something unforgettable together!