Alaska Elopement Guide: Everything You Need to Know
Photos by Andrea Enger unless otherwise credited.
Why Choose Alaska for Your Elopement Location
As a seasoned adventure elopement photographer, I have had the great joy of travelling to the most stunning places far and wide to document the unions of so many sweet couples. From Torres del Paine to the Caribbean shores of Mexico to the canyonlands of Utah… Each place has its own distinctive beauty and magnificence.
BUT, there is something different about Alaska. It is singular in its remoteness, in the diversity of its terrain, in its vastness (it is literally almost two and a half times the size of Texas), and its unspoiled pristineness and purity.
There is much to love about this place that is so aptly named our “last frontier”. Let’s start with the landscape itself. Alaska is comprised of over 3,000 soaring mountain peaks; innumerable cascading waterfalls; vast, lush forests; otherworldly islands; massive glaciers (Alaska is the only place in the US where you can get married on one); and over 12,000 rivers, 3 million lakes; and 34,000 miles of shoreline along its oceans and seas. Its diversity and vastness is truly staggering. You can imagine that it is indeed an adventure and nature lover’s paradise!
In addition to the rugged and awesome beauty of its land and seascapes, Alaska boasts an abundance of wildlife, unmatched by any other state in the lower 48. You can hope to see herds of wild elk, moose, bison, caribou, wolves, whales, black bears, grizzlies, and even polar bears (who live only here and four other places in the world). Clearly, Alaska is a wildlife lover’s paradise, too!
More practically speaking, Alaska is a prime elopement location because it is far less busy and populated than almost any other locale in the US, or perhaps the world. 54 million acres alone are designated as national parks (of which there are eight), and this number does not include nature preserves, state parks, BLM managed land, or other public lands. Thus, the number of possible fabulous places to elope in Alaska is almost incalculable. (But don’t worry, I’ve got a list for you!)
If you want a totally epic, imminently unforgettable, and incomparably gorgeous elopement location, Alaska is just the place.
What to Do in Alaska
Now that you understand why Alaska is the penultimate elopement destination, let’s talk about what you can DO in this adventure and nature and wildlife lover’s playground. I start with this list because, if your wedding is going to be activity-focused, what you most desire to do may very well determine where exactly in this vast state you choose to elope.
The possibilities are nearly limitless, and there is honestly something for everyone, from high-octane intense thrills like landing in a helicopter on a glacier and ice-climbing to more low-key pursuits like taking a train tour and visiting a reindeer farm.
Here is my list of top activities for your unforgettable Alaska elopement:
By sea, river, ocean, or lake:
Rafting
Kayaking around glaciers
Packrafting
Whale watching
Fly fishing
Polar plunge
Soaking in hot springs
Sailboat ride
Private boat tours
By land:
Glacier hiking
Rock climbing
Ice climbing
Hiking and backpacking
Visiting an ice cave
Riding the Alaska Railroad
Skiing
Dog sledding
Skiing
Snowmobiling
Star gazing (you can see the Northern Lights from mid-August to mid-April)
By air:
Taking a helicopter tour
Taking a bush plane tour
Taking a float plane ride
You can pick and choose a variety of awesome things to do during your elopement, curating an itinerary that is perfect for you and your partner. For instance, you might decide that you want a shorter, five-day affair– one day for traveling, one for your wedding day– hiking from your campground or VRBO to a remote spot and saying your vows overlooking a vast seascape, two days for a fun activity– trekking through the state aboard the Alaska Railroad’s Coastal Classic train and cruise (Alaska Railroad). and one more for traveling home. Alternatively, you and your partner might have carved out two weeks for an adventure-packed, epic wedding and honeymoon. Your itinerary may include whale watching and kayaking in Seward, a night of dining on a fishing boat, a multi-day backpacking and star gazing trip through Denali (including a helicopter tour of the surroundings and a visit to an ice cave), capped off by a stay (and party!) at a luxury cabinwith close family and friends.
Where to Elope in Alaska
The sheer magnitude of this state (did I mention you can fit 19 other states within its borders?!) means that there are many, many excellent choices for wedding locations. Here, I detail my top 5 destinations for a perfect Alaska elopement.
Denali National Park
The Gist: Located in southcentral Alaska, this vast park, spanning over 6 million acres of wild land, is home to the tallest, and absolutely most mesmerizing peak, in the US– Denali, which soars to a breathtaking 20, 310 feet. DNP comprises a stunning array of subartic landscapes, which transition from taiga forests to alpine tundra and snowy mountains. It boasts abundant wildlife– moose, Dall sheep, wolves, grizzlies, and more. I had the great pleasure of spending a week in Denali this summer, and it exceeded my wildest dreams.
What You Can Do: As you may well imagine, there are tons of things to do in Denali. Top among them include hiking, touring on Jeeps, biking, ice climbing, flightseeing, and taking a helicopter tour. You can even land on a glacier and overnight there. One fun idea: Take The Denali Star Train from Anchorage or Fairbanks to Denali (and see many amazing sights along the way); then begin your grand outdoor wedding adventure once you arrive at the park.
Where You Can Stay: You can backpack and camp in the park (with the right permits); you can also rent a VRBO or reserve a yurt just outside the park. Alternatively, you can cozy up in a totally unforgettable spot like The Sheldon Chalet, a Nordic-inspired luxury getaway which is nestled within the park at 6,000 feet of elevation, overlooking the Ruth Glacier and a surrounding citadel of towering peaks. There, a private chef, concierge, and group of guides will tailor a customized experience for you. (Note: You can only access this dreamy spot by taking a 15-minute helicopter ride from Anchorage, or a 30-minute flight from Talkeetna). Talk about an epic elopement!
Other Logistics: There is one 92-mile road running through DNP, and only the first 15 miles are open to private cars during the peak season (late May-early September). At this site for the park, you can find information about how to apply for permits as well as extensive and very helpful resources on what to know, how to prepare, what to pack, etc. See here for information regarding special use permits for weddings, which are required.
Best Months to Get Married Here: Mid-May through mid-September
Photo by Barth Bailey on Unsplash
2. The Kenai Peninsula
The Gist: This area, aptly referred to as “Alaska’s Playground”, extends southwest past the Chugach Mountains and has a little bit of every great thing about Alaska for the offering. Lakes, glaciers, rivers, marshes, mountains, plains, forests… You can find an abundance of diverse wildlife here, including bald eagles, brown bears, moose, caribou, orcas, and humpback whales. It is conveniently situated close to Anchorage, and is dotted with several populated charming towns, so getting there– and staying there– is not as daunting as some other locales you may be considering. I had the chance to spend four lovely days in and around Seward and Homer this summer for a small wedding, and we just fell in love with all this place has to offer.
What You Can Do: Its ‘playground’ moniker is well-deserved, as there are a multitude of activities to do in this area. Choose from kayaking, rafting, canoeing, marine tours, salmon fishing, glacier exploration, sailing, dog sledding, hiking, whale watching, wildlife viewing, and flightseeing. The Alaska Railroad (along with many other outfitters) offers all sorts of tours here from a 12-hour fjord train tour, to catamaran tours, wildlife cruises, and helicopter adventures.
Where You Can Stay: Located right next to Kenai Fjords National Park’s eastern boundary, on Resurrection Bay, is the charming town of Seward. There is no shortage of VRBOS, bed and breakfasts, yurts, hotels, campsites, and cabins to choose from here. But one spot to consider is Salted Roots, which offers up the cutest, coziest, and coolest accommodations you can imagine, including rustic seaside cabins overlooking the bay, modern A-frames ensconced in a spruce forest, and even a 1970s retro bus. Amenities include a private beachfront with multiple firepits, a wood-fired barrel sauna, and an outdoor camp kitchen.
Other Logistics: Getting here is pretty straightforward as you can fly, drive, or take a train to Seward from Anchorage. There are plenty of possible elopement locations to choose from, such as a small private venue, or a more secluded spot on a glacier, a boat, a beach, or atop a mountain peak. Each will offer a stunning backdrop for your spectacular Alaska elopement.
Best Months to Get Married Here: June through early-September
Photo by Wander Photography on iStock
3. Wrangell St. Elias National Park and Preserve
The Gist: This park is the largest of all national parks in the United States. It rises up from the ocean, up to 18,008 feet (Mt. St. Elias) and is home to nine of the sixteen tallest peaks in the country; to Mt. Wrangell, one of the largest active volcanoes in North America; and to some of the world’s largest glaciers (one, Malaspina, is larger than Rhode Island). It is truly massive in scope– the size of Yellowstone, Switzerland, and Yosemite combined! You can only imagine the immense diversity of wildlife and landscapes in a park this vast. Visit this rugged, wild place, and I assure you: You will undoubtedly feel a profound sense of solitude, humility, wonder, and awe– as if you were the first to lay witness to such remarkable sights.
What You Can Do: Needless to say, in a park this big, full of trails and teeming with glaciers (comprising 35% of the park), the number of activities to do are countless. They include: backpacking, ice climbing, rafting and packrafting, flightseeing, camping, skiing and snowboarding (there is snow in the high country year-round), visiting abandoned mines and ghost towns, and wildlife viewing.
Where You Can Stay: You have some excellent options in or around Wrangell St. Elias. One favorite is Ultima Thule Lodge, a wilderness lodge that is any explorer’s dream. It boasts handcrafted cabins, each appointed with overstuffed King beds, fluffy sheepskin rugs, and gorgeous Alaskan art. A team of experienced bush pilots (and their fleet of airplanes that can land anywhere) are at your service to deliver you right to your chosen adventure– such as flightseeing over Bagley Icefield in the morning, picnicking along a riverbank in the afternoon and picking wild blueberries for dessert, and then shooting upwards in the air to view the sunset over the largest vertical gain in the world at the summit of Mt. St. Elias. Dine at night on homegrown vegetables and locally harvested fish and fame, while being regaled with tall tales from your hosts and guides. Talk about unforgettable!
Other Logistics: You can find all the information you need about special use permits (which you will need for your small wedding) and more, at this national park service's website. To get to the park, which lies 210 miles east of Anchorage, you can drive on the two gravel roads that lead there, or fly, or take a ferry or cruise. I can help you choose which is best!
Best Months to Get Married Here: June through September
Photo by Corey Simoneau on Unsplash
4. Hatcher Pass
The Gist: Nestled between the towns of Palmer and Willow, this 200-acre area is renowned for its stunning views of alpine lakes, flowering meadows, and lofty mountains. It offers excellent hiking and biking in the warmer months, and an array of winter activities in the colder months. There are many trails in this destination, with something for everyone– from easy walking paths to more challenging backcountry routes. Furthermore, Hatcher Pass is only an hour and twenty minute’s drive from Anchorage, making it one of the most accessible spots for your elopement.
What You Can Do: As with practically everywhere else in Alaska, there are myriad opportunities to get out and enjoy the wild and the solitude in Hatcher Pass. In the summer, you can hike or bike its numerous and varied trails. For those looking to go on multi-day treks, you can plan overnight hut-to-hut hikes. Another idea for those wanting to add on something super memorable on their elopement day is to set up a parasailing expedition (with or without a guide, depending on your expertise, of course). With one of the earliest snowfalls in the state, Hatcher Pass is also a great winter wedding destination and offers up tons of activities like snowshoeing, snowmobiling, skiing, and snowboarding.
Where You Can Stay: The town of Palmer is about a 30 minute drive from Hatcher Pass, and you can use that as your homebase if you wish. There are many cute VRBOs, such as creekside cabins and little mountain hideaways. Another great choice is Hatcher Pass Cabins, located right at the entrance to Hatcher Pass in the Talkeetna Mountains. These classic little log cabins feature a kitchenette, a Queen bed, a bathroom, and a firepit. The Sourdough Cabins comfortably sleep two, but you can also reserve a chalet-style Grande Cabin (which sleeps six and has a full kitchen) if you need more space. Natalie and Jeff (the owners and hosts) are on site to help you settle in and plan your stay.
Other Logistics: Hatcher Pass is not a national or state spark but rather a combination of state-owned land and BLM-managed land. Once you have picked your elopement location, you will then need to contact the proper authorities to ask about land use and special use permits. Specifically, you will reach out to either the State of Alaska Division of Natural Resources, the Department of Parks and Outdoor Recreation, or the BLM Field Office as appropriate, to understand the specific permit requirements, fees, and application procedures.
Best Months to Get Married Here: July through early-September
Photo by Taylor Murphy on Unsplash
5. Sitka, Alaska
The Gist: Sitka is a little gem of a city nestled at the base of glacier-carved mountains on an island facing the Pacific Ocean in southeast Alaska. It is about 95 miles from Junea as far as the crow flies, but there is no direct driving route between the two, and getting there by car takes upwards of 10 hours. The only way to get there (in a reasonable amount of time) is by boat or by plane. With the Tongass National Forest– the largest temperate rainforest in the world– as its backdrop, Sitka is a place where wilderness, marine beauty, culture, and history all converge.
What You Can Do: Here you can enjoy so many fun endeavors. You can hike, explore the area in a sea plane, kayak, book a fishing charter or helicopter tour, go whale watching, and view the myriad wildlife (on a tour or on your own). For top-rated tours, look into Sitka Expeditions, which offers multiple fishing and wildlife tours. Another idea is to combine your Sitka elopement with a cruise; multiple popular cruise lines come in and out of Sitka each day, so you can begin or end your wedding adventure in this way. Furthermore, because of Sitka’s relative proximity to Juneau, you can combine your elopement with a visit to the state’s capital city, which has so much to offer as well.
Where You Can Stay: There are many fetching places to stay in Sitka, but one favorite to check out is the Thimbleberry Bay House, a gorgeous, high-end waterfront property surrounded by 4 acres of Sitka spruce trees. Several trails meander down to a private beach where kayaks will be waiting for you to venture out on. Unwind at night with a glass of champagne while soaking in a hot tub overlooking the bay… So dreamy!
Other Logistics: There are many ways in which you can elope in Sitka. You may choose to say “I do” on the water, along the coast, in the rainforest… Because the location of your ceremony dictates so much of the legalities, you will need to contact the land management agency in charge of your preferred location to find out if a permit is necessary and how to apply for it.
Best Months to Get Married Here: May through September
When to Elope in Alaska
Now that we have covered all of the amazing elopement destinations in Alaska, let’s discuss the best time of year (and day) to say “I do”. In a way, this is pretty subjective; it is really up to you, of course! How you want your wedding to look, what you want the day to feel like, what activities you want to do… These considerations impact the time of year that you will choose.
What you need to know is that Alaska is a climate of relative extremes– with long, cold, dark winters and short, cool, bright summers. In the winter, there are typically only 5-6 hours of daylight. If you want a winter wedding (and cheers to you for considering it!), you will need to keep this important information in mind as you plan out your timeline. I, of course, can help you with that! In the summer, alternatively, there are upwards of 19.5 hours of daylight in 24 hours. The farther north you go, the more daylight you can expect. Here is a fun little calculator you can use to determine the sunrise and sunset times in the area and time of your choosing.
Temperature is important to take into consideration, too. In the warmest months, temperatures typically range from 60 to 80, although that is totally place-dependent. In Hatcher Pass, for instance, the highs generally don’t surpass the upper 50s. Bottom line: It’s a big state, and the temperatures vary widely.
With all that being said, many people will argue that June to September is the best time to elope in Alaska. Outside of those months, you may face the unexpected possibility of roads being closed or impassable, rain deterring your plans, or other issues (like too much snowfall).
How to Get Married in Alaska (Permits & Laws)
Alaska marriage laws are not unlike those of other states in the U.S.. To get legally married in Alaska:
You need to be 18 or older
You will need to apply for a marriage license (which you can do here) that will be valid for 3 months (after which point you will have to reapply)
You will need to submit your application and pay the $60 fee
Note: There is a three-day waiting period after submitting the application, meaning you must wait at least three full business days after the application is submitted before you can pick up the license and the marriage ceremony can be performed. Thus, make your travel plans accordingly.
Two witnesses and an officiant must be present for the wedding ceremony
What to Pack for Your Alaska Elopement
There is a saying amongst outdoorsy communities, particularly those with harsher weather: “There’s no bad weather, only bad clothes.” Whether you agree or not, the sentiment is clear and we can probably all concede its inherent truth: No matter where you are planning to elope, being prepared with the right gear is imperative!
The following is a list of must-haves for your Alaska small wedding:
An excellent, high-tech, waterproof rain jacket
Waterproof boots (I love Bogs and Xtratuf)
Hiking boots (Ideally, you want ones that have added waterproofing)
Lots of layers of high-tech, high-end hiking clothes (Try to have a layer with UPF)
Long underwear (I love Smartwool)
Quick-dry wool socks (Bring extra pairs)
Bear spray (There are lots of them in AK, trust me!)
Bug spray and a bug net (I CAN NOT stress these two enough. I’ve seen mosquitoes in Denali the size of my hand!)
Umbrella (It may seem “extra”, but you are not just hiking and exploring; you are getting married, so you will want more protection from the elements)
All wedding items, of course (Wedding attire, vow books, accessories, gifts, decorations, etc.)
Optional:
Bear canister (If you are planning to overnight camp)
Gaiters (If you are hiking through snow)
Extras to Keep in Mind | Logistics & Planning Support
AEP includes comprehensive planning services to ensure a seamless and stress-free experience, especially in remote or rugged locations. These often include:
Location scouting based on your preferences (glaciers, waterfalls, forests, coastal cliffs, etc.)
Permit research and coordination (many public lands, like national parks or forests, require event permits)
Custom timeline creation to make the most of lighting, scenery, and weather patterns
Vendor referrals for florals, hair & makeup, officiants, private chefs, transportation, etc.
Contingency planning in case of weather, wildlife activity, or travel delays
This support is especially valuable in Alaska, where logistics can be more complex due to remote access and unpredictable conditions.
Access & Travel Add-Ons
Some of Alaska’s most iconic and breathtaking locations—like glaciers, alpine ridges, or remote fjords—require additional transportation. These can significantly impact both the experience and the cost:
Helicopter rides to glaciers, mountaintops, or ice caves (often $1,000–$3,000+ depending on location and duration)
Seaplane or bush plane charters to reach truly remote areas like Wrangell-St. Elias or Katmai
Boat tours or water taxis to coastal locations, fjords, and wildlife-heavy areas
Snowmobiles or dog sledding for winter elopements
Off-road vehicles for access to tundra or alpine trails
These elements often require advance booking, coordination with local operators, and flexibility in your timeline.
Season & Location Choice
Alaska offers stunning seasonal variety, and your ideal elopement experience will depend on the time of year:
Summer (Late May – August):
Long daylight hours (up to 20+ hours in June) allow for flexible timing and extended adventures
Easiest trail and road access
Lush greenery, wildflowers, glacier runoff at full flow
Early Fall (September – Early October):
Gorgeous fall foliage with golden tundra, red shrubs, and snow-dusted peaks
Potential to catch northern lights starting mid-September, especially near Fairbanks
Cooler temps, shorter days, but still accessible before snow limits travel
Winter (Late October – April):
Magical snowy landscapes, frozen lakes, and clear night skies
Ideal for aurora viewing and unique experiences like dog sledding or hot springs
Requires warm gear and more careful planning for road/weather conditions
Tip: Always build a backup plan (or a “Plan B” location) into your elopement day, especially in mountainous or coastal areas where weather can shift quickly.
Alaska Elopement Packages
When it comes to Alaska elopement packages, every couple does it a little differently. Some plan multi-day adventures that include hiking, glacier landings, and a few nights in a cozy cabin, while others keep it simple with a half-day celebration and a scenic drive along the coast.
My packages start at 8 hours for $8,200, and can be fully customized. Most couples can expect to spend at least $12,000–$18,000 total on their Alaska elopement, including photography, lodging, flights, and meals. Of course, the final cost depends on where you’re traveling from, how long you plan to stay, and whether you want to add any activities or excursions.
For accommodations, couples often mix and match - camping ($20-$40/night) or road-tripping for part of the trip, then splurging on a boutique hotel or VRBO ($200-$500/night) for the wedding day itself. Flights to Alaska generally range between $500–$1,000 per person, and most couples stay about 5–7 days, which adds up to $1,500–$3,500 for lodging, depending on style.
Flexibility and customization are at the heart of every package so that your day feels completely personal, whether that means a quiet morning together in the mountains or an epic helicopter ride over an ancient glacier.
If you are ready to discuss an Alaska elopement with me, please don’t hesitate to reach out! My life’s work is helping to plan and then to photograph the most epically unforgettable of weddings, in the most epically unforgettable of places. I assure you, Alaska is pure magic, unlike any other place! It is the penultimate backdrop for the wedding of your wildest dreams.
Remember to “Leave No Trace!”
Sustainability can’t just be a niche market for photographers. It must be the new normal! As a nature lover, I am dedicated to helping our earth flourish. This is why I practice “Leave No Trace” principles at each and every one of my sessions.
What exactly is Leave No Trace?
It is:
🌿 A set of ethics & best practices we should follow to enjoy and protect the outdoors at the same time
🌿 An access tool to help enjoy public lands responsibly and leave less impact
It isn’t:
🌿 Something to shame other people about or make them feel bad for not knowing
🌿 Something to use to gatekeep and keep others from enjoying the outdoors
Once you’ve booked me as your Alaska elopement photographer, you’ll receive my full Leave No Trace guide for couples! It’s an easy-breezy workbook designed to help you plan your dream elopement, while being mindful of the beautiful lands upon which you’ve chosen to exchange your vows.
Lock In Your Date!
Elopement photographer Andrea Enger (photo by Realm Studios)
Ready to Celebrate Your Day Your Way?
Find out how I can help make that happen!
Reach out and schedule a time to chat! If you’re ready to check availability for your date and reserve your Alaska elopement photographer, you can fill out the form below, email me directly at andrea@andreaengerphotography.com, or call/text me at (720) 739-0784. I’d love to hear from you!
If you’re still in the research phase, I hear ya! Here are some more resources that my couples have found helpful. I hope you do, too!
