Hey there, lovebirds! If you’re dreaming of a wedding surrounded by nature’s beauty, you might want to consider tying the knot in one of the stunning national parks across the United States. National parks offer breathtaking scenery, intimate settings, and a sense of adventure that’s perfect for a memorable wedding. In this post, we’ll explore the best national parks to get married in, providing you with all the details you need to plan your perfect day. Let’s dive in and discover your dream wedding location!
1. Yosemite National Park, California
Why It’s Amazing: Yosemite National Park is an iconic destination known for its towering granite cliffs, majestic waterfalls, and lush meadows. The park offers a variety of stunning locations for your wedding, from the dramatic views of Glacier Point to the serene beauty of the Merced River. Yosemite’s diverse landscapes create a magical backdrop for any ceremony, making it one of the most sought-after wedding destinations in the country. Plus, the park’s well-maintained facilities and services ensure a seamless experience for you and your guests.
Top Wedding Locations:
- Glacier Point: Offers panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra peaks.
- Yosemite Chapel: A charming, historic chapel located in the heart of Yosemite Valley.
- Bridalveil Fall: A picturesque spot with the waterfall as your backdrop.
Travel Tips:
- Obtain a special use permit for your wedding, as required by the park.
- Plan your wedding during the off-peak season to avoid large crowds and secure your desired location.
2. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Why It’s Amazing: The Grand Canyon offers a unique and awe-inspiring setting for your wedding, with its vast, colorful landscapes and dramatic vistas. Imagine exchanging vows with the canyon’s breathtaking backdrop, creating memories that will last a lifetime. The park’s diverse viewpoints and intimate spots provide countless options for a personalized ceremony, making it a versatile choice for couples. Additionally, the Grand Canyon’s stunning sunsets and sunrises add an extra layer of romance to your special day.
Top Wedding Locations:
- Shoshone Point: A secluded and scenic spot with stunning views of the canyon.
- Mather Point: A popular overlook with expansive views of the canyon’s South Rim.
- Yavapai Point: Offers panoramic views and easy access for your guests.
Travel Tips:
- Apply for a special use permit well in advance, as the park limits the number of weddings.
- Consider holding your ceremony during sunrise or sunset for the most spectacular lighting.
3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee
Why It’s Amazing: The Great Smoky Mountains provide a romantic and serene setting for your wedding, with misty mountains, lush forests, and vibrant wildflowers. The park’s diverse landscapes offer a variety of beautiful spots for your ceremony. The natural beauty and tranquility of the Smokies make it an ideal location for an intimate wedding. The park’s rich history and abundant wildlife add to the charm, ensuring your wedding will be an unforgettable experience.
Top Wedding Locations:
- Cades Cove: A picturesque valley surrounded by mountains, perfect for an outdoor ceremony.
- Cataloochee Valley: Offers a historic church and beautiful meadows for your wedding.
- Clingmans Dome: The highest point in the park, providing breathtaking views.
Travel Tips:
- Obtain a special use permit and follow the park’s guidelines for weddings.
- Plan for variable weather conditions and have a backup plan for inclement weather.
4. Zion National Park, Utah
Why It’s Amazing: Zion National Park is known for its stunning red rock formations, deep canyons, and lush valleys. The park’s unique landscapes create a dramatic and unforgettable setting for your wedding. Zion’s towering cliffs and vibrant colors provide a spectacular backdrop for photographs, making it a favorite among adventurous couples. The park’s diverse terrain offers a variety of ceremony locations, from secluded spots to breathtaking overlooks.
Top Wedding Locations:
- The Grotto: A peaceful picnic area with beautiful canyon views.
- Temple of Sinawava: A stunning amphitheater-like area with towering cliffs.
- Canyon Overlook: Offers panoramic views of Zion Canyon.
Travel Tips:
- Apply for a special use permit and adhere to the park’s regulations for weddings.
- Consider the time of year and weather conditions when planning your wedding.
5. Acadia National Park, Maine
Why It’s Amazing: Acadia National Park offers a unique blend of rugged coastline, granite peaks, and lush forests. The park’s diverse landscapes provide a variety of beautiful and intimate spots for your wedding ceremony. Acadia’s coastal charm and stunning vistas make it a romantic destination for couples looking for a picturesque setting. The park’s well-preserved natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere create the perfect environment for a memorable wedding.
Top Wedding Locations:
- Jordan Pond: A serene lake with mountain views, perfect for an outdoor ceremony.
- Cadillac Mountain: The highest point on the East Coast, offering stunning sunrise views.
- Sand Beach: A picturesque spot with a sandy beach and rocky coastline.
Travel Tips:
- Obtain a special use permit and follow the park’s guidelines for weddings.
- Plan for cooler temperatures and bring layers for you and your guests.
6. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Why It’s Amazing: Rocky Mountain National Park is a stunning destination with its towering peaks, alpine lakes, and lush meadows. The park offers a variety of breathtaking locations for your wedding, from mountain vistas to tranquil lakeshores. The park’s diverse ecosystems and dramatic landscapes provide endless opportunities for stunning photographs. The fresh mountain air and serene environment make it an ideal location for a romantic and intimate ceremony.
Top Wedding Locations:
- Sprague Lake: A beautiful spot with a serene lake and mountain views.
- Bear Lake: A picturesque lake surrounded by pine forests and rocky peaks.
- Moraine Park: Offers expansive meadows with stunning mountain backdrops.
Travel Tips:
- Apply for a special use permit and adhere to the park’s regulations for weddings.
- Consider the high altitude and be prepared for variable weather conditions.
7. Glacier National Park, Montana
Why It’s Amazing: Glacier National Park is known as the “Crown of the Continent” for its stunning mountain scenery, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. The park offers a variety of breathtaking spots for your wedding ceremony, from alpine meadows to glacier-carved valleys. Glacier’s untouched beauty and remote location provide a sense of adventure and tranquility. The park’s diverse landscapes ensure that your wedding photos will be nothing short of spectacular.
Top Wedding Locations:
- Many Glacier Hotel: Offers stunning views of Swiftcurrent Lake and the surrounding peaks.
- Lake McDonald: A picturesque lake with crystal-clear waters and mountain views.
- Logan Pass: A high-altitude location with stunning alpine scenery.
Travel Tips:
- Obtain a special use permit and follow the park’s guidelines for weddings.
- Plan for variable weather conditions and have a backup plan for inclement weather.
8. Olympic National Park, Washington
Why It’s Amazing: Olympic National Park offers a diverse range of landscapes, from rugged coastline and lush rainforests to alpine peaks. The park’s unique beauty provides a variety of stunning locations for your wedding ceremony. The park’s vast and varied terrain means you can choose a location that perfectly suits your vision, whether it’s a coastal ceremony or a mountaintop vow exchange. Olympic’s natural beauty and serene atmosphere make it an unforgettable wedding destination.
Top Wedding Locations:
- Hurricane Ridge: Offers breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains.
- Lake Crescent: A beautiful lake surrounded by dense forests and mountain views.
- Ruby Beach: A picturesque beach with sea stacks and dramatic coastline.
Travel Tips:
- Apply for a special use permit and adhere to the park’s regulations for weddings.
- Consider the time of year and weather conditions when planning your wedding.
9. Joshua Tree National Park, California
Why It’s Amazing: Joshua Tree National Park is known for its unique desert landscapes, stunning rock formations, and iconic Joshua trees. The park’s otherworldly beauty creates a dramatic and unforgettable setting for your wedding. The park’s unique flora and striking rock formations provide a stunning backdrop for photographs. Joshua Tree’s serene desert environment offers a sense of peace and tranquility, perfect for an intimate wedding ceremony.
Top Wedding Locations:
- Hidden Valley: A secluded spot with beautiful rock formations and Joshua trees.
- Cap Rock: Offers stunning views of the park’s unique desert landscapes.
- Indian Cove: A picturesque area with dramatic rock formations and Joshua trees.
Travel Tips:
- Obtain a special use permit and follow the park’s guidelines for weddings.
- Plan for cooler temperatures in the evening and bring layers for you and your guests.
10. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii
Why It’s Amazing: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park offers a unique and dramatic setting for your wedding, with its active volcanoes, lush rainforests, and stunning coastal views. The park’s diverse landscapes create a truly unforgettable backdrop for your special day. The park’s volcanic landscapes provide a sense of adventure and excitement. The lush rainforests and pristine coastline offer a variety of beautiful and intimate locations for your ceremony.
Top Wedding Locations:
- Thurston Lava Tube: A unique spot with a lush rainforest and ancient lava tube.
- Kilauea Overlook: Offers stunning views of the active Kilauea volcano.
- Halemaumau Crater: A dramatic location with breathtaking views of the volcanic crater.
Travel Tips:
- Apply for a special use permit and adhere to the park’s regulations for weddings.
- Consider the time of year and weather conditions when planning your wedding.
Additional Tips for Getting Married in National Parks
- Plan Ahead: Many national parks require special use permits for weddings, so make sure to apply well in advance. Check the park’s website for specific requirements and guidelines.
- Respect the Environment: Follow Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the beauty of the parks for future visitors. Pack out all trash and leave nature as you found it.
- Consider the Weather: Weather conditions can vary greatly depending on the location and time of year, so be prepared with appropriate clothing and gear for you and your guests.
- Hire Local Vendors: Consider hiring local vendors who are familiar with the park and its regulations. This can help ensure a smooth and stress-free wedding day.
- Have a Backup Plan: Outdoor weddings are always at the mercy of the weather, so have a backup plan in case of inclement conditions. Consider renting a tent or reserving an indoor venue nearby.
The best national parks to get married in, each offering a unique and unforgettable setting for your special day. Whether you’re looking for dramatic landscapes, rich biodiversity, or intimate outdoor experiences, these parks have something for everyone.
So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to say “I do” in some of the most beautiful places on Earth. Happy planning!
P.S. – Want to see more national parks? Check out our list of the best national parks in the US.
