Full Big Bend Wedding Guide | Glacier National Park Photographer and Videographer
Full Big Bend Wedding Guide | Glacier National Park Photographer and Videographer
Welcome to Big Bend!!
Big Bend is the spot almost every couple sends me as their first piece of inspiration. It’s one of the most iconic views in Glacier and the fact that it’s an approved ceremony location makes planning ten times easier. You park, step out, and you’re instantly surrounded by huge mountain views in every direction. It’s fully accessible and every slight turn gives you a different backdrop, which makes photo and video coverage way more dynamic. As a story-driven photographer and videographer with a vlog meets indie film style, Big Bend gives me endless options without needing to go far. It is one of the busiest pullouts in the park, so if privacy is the top priority I usually steer couples somewhere quieter. But if you love the look of this spot, I can frame out other visitors without it feeling forced. Big Bend is classic Glacier and always delivers.
Table of Contents
Why you should elope at Big Bend
FAQs about eloping at Big Bend
Big Bend Wedding & Elopement Permits
How to Get Your Montana Marriage License
The Best Time of Year to Get Married at Big Bend
Big Bend Elopement Photographer and Videographer
Big Bend Wedding and Elopement Packages
Final Tips for Eloping at Big Bend
Big Bend Wedding Inspiration + More Glacier National Park Wedding Planning Resources
Bride sits on the iconic rock at Big Bend in Glacier National Park
Black and white - bride and groom pose for portrait at Big Bend in Glacier National Park
Where is Big Bend
Big Bend is one of the most recognizable pullouts along Going to the Sun Road on the west side of Logan Pass. It is the massive horseshoe shaped turn with sweeping mountain views, cliffs, and wildflower slopes. If you have seen photos of couples standing in front of dramatic layered peaks with the road carved into the hillside below, there is a good chance it was Big Bend.
This spot sits high in the alpine section of the park, between The Loop and Logan Pass. It is easy to get to, but only when the road is fully open for the season. Couples who want those dramatic alpine views without hiking love Big Bend because the access is simple, the scenery is immediate, and the entire area feels like classic Glacier.
Closest Major Cities/Towns:
These towns are the main hubs guests will stay in, eat in, and use as home base:
West Glacier about 30 minutes from Big Bend once Going to the Sun Road is open for the season
Columbia Falls about 45 minutes depending on traffic
Whitefish about 1 hour
Kalispell about 1 hour and 15 minutes
How to Get to Big Bend
Closest Major Airports:
These are the best flight options for anyone traveling in from out of state:
Glacier Park International Airport FCA about 35 to 45 minutes Glacier
Missoula Montana Airport MSO about 2.5 hours
Spokane International Airport GEG about 4.5 hours
If guests are flying into smaller airports or private aviation hubs, Kalispell and Whitefish still serve as the closest towns with lodging, rental cars, and easy access to the park.
How to Drive to Big Bend
Reaching Big Bend is straightforward once park visitors center themselves around West Glacier. From there, they will drive east on Going to the Sun Road until the Big Bend pullout appears on the right. In peak summer, plan for traffic, limited parking, and variable conditions.
Bride and groom walk up the trail on a rainy day at Big Bend in Glacier National Park
Why Should You Elope at Big Bend
Big Bend gives you the dramatic Glacier mountain views without needing to hike for them. The peaks are right in front of you, the pullout is easy to access, and it is one of the simplest ways to get true alpine scenery.
The location sits along Going to the Sun Road, close to West Glacier, Lake McDonald, and Logan Pass. Guests can stay in Whitefish, Columbia Falls, Kalispell, or inside the park and still reach the spot without a long drive.
It is a popular pullout, so expect people during the day. Sunrise and sunset are quieter, and there is plenty of space to work around other visitors.
There are activities for every ability level nearby. Families can explore short boardwalk trails at Logan Pass or walk the Lake McDonald shoreline. Couples who want more adventure can head to Hidden Lake Overlook, Highline, or Avalanche Lake. Everything is close, and nothing requires a full day commitment.
Big Bend is straightforward, scenic, and central. It is an easy choice for couples who want Glacier views without a long approach.
Spectacular morning view of low hanging fog at Big Bend in Glacier National Park (black and white)
FAQ’s About Eloping at Big Bend
Can you get married at Big Bend in Glacier National Park?
Yes. Big Bend is an approved Glacier National Park wedding location. You will need a Glacier National Park Special Use Permit. I cover the full permit process later in this guide.
Do you need a permit to get married at Big Bend?
Yes. All weddings and elopements inside Glacier National Park require a Special Use Permit. The application is simple and must be submitted ahead of time.
How many guests can you have at a Big Bend wedding?
Group size is limited because Big Bend is a roadside pullout on Going to the Sun Road. The park sets the cap each season. Small gatherings are the most realistic here.
Are dogs allowed at Big Bend for a wedding?
No. Dogs are not allowed on trails or ceremony sites in Glacier National Park. They can only be in parking areas and campgrounds.
Are there bears at Big Bend in Glacier National Park?
Yes. Glacier has both black bears and grizzly bears. Wildlife is always possible in this area, so follow park rules and stay aware.
How crowded is Big Bend during the summer?
It is one of the busiest pullouts on Going to the Sun Road. Midday has the most traffic. Sunrise and sunset offer the best chance for privacy.
Is Big Bend accessible for guests with limited mobility?
Yes. Big Bend is a level pullout with very little walking required, which makes it one of the most accessible ceremony locations in the park.
When is Big Bend open for weddings?
Only when Going to the Sun Road is fully open. This usually happens in late June or early July and closes again once early winter conditions return.
Where is Big Bend inside Glacier National Park?
Big Bend sits along Going to the Sun Road between The Loop and Logan Pass. It is close to West Glacier, Lake McDonald, and the Logan Pass Visitor Center.
Bride and groom smiling at each other at Big Bend in Glacier National Park (black and white)
Couple kissing on car at Big Bend in Glacier National Park
Big Bend Wedding & Elopement Permits
Glacier National Park keeps the permit system simple, but it can feel confusing the first time you look at it. Every couple getting married at Big Bend needs a Special Use Permit from the park. This permit gives you permission to hold a ceremony at an approved location and outlines the rules you must follow while you are there.
This section breaks down exactly what you need, what it costs, and how to apply so there are no surprises.
Big Bend Wedding Special Use Permit
A Special Use Permit is required for all weddings and elopements in Glacier National Park. The permit covers your ceremony location, your group size, and the time of day you are approved to be there.
Here is what you need to know about it:
What the permit allows and does not allow
The permit allows you to hold a small ceremony at Big Bend. You must stay within your approved area and group size. Decorations, chairs, and amplified sound are not allowed. You cannot block traffic or restrict public access. The ceremony must remain simple and low impact.
How far in advance to apply
Apply as early as possible. The park accepts applications up to one year in advance and requires processing time. Do not wait until the last minute, especially for summer dates.
Permit cost
Glacier National Park charges a fee for the Special Use Permit. The fee covers application review and administrative time.
Approved ceremony locations
Big Bend is one of the designated roadside locations along Going to the Sun Road. Your permit will only allow you to use the location listed on your application.
Guest count limits
Group sizes are limited because Big Bend is a roadside pullout. The park sets the exact number each season. Plan for a very small ceremony here.
Parking rules
Parking is only allowed in legal pullout spaces. You cannot block traffic or save spots. Carpooling is highly recommended.
Park entry fees
Yes, you and your guests must still pay the standard Glacier National Park entry fees. The Special Use Permit does not include park admission.
How to get your permit
You will complete the application, pay the permit fee, and wait for approval. Once approved, you will receive an official permit that you must have with you on the day of your ceremony.
Big Bend Entry Fees & Passes
Glacier National Park requires an entrance pass for every vehicle entering the park. You can purchase this at the gate or online ahead of time. The pass covers seven consecutive days.
In addition to the entrance fee, the park often requires a vehicle reservation for the Going-to-the-Sun Road corridor during peak summer. If your ceremony is during reservation season, you and your guests will need both an entrance pass and a vehicle reservation unless your Special Use Permit specifically states that it covers entry for the ceremony window.
It is important to plan ahead so your guests know exactly what they need before they arrive. Let them know to buy their passes early, arrive with time to spare, and expect checkpoints depending on the season.
Artistic portrait of bride and groom at Big Bend in Glacier National Park
How to Get Your Montana Marriage License
Getting your Montana marriage license is simple, and Flathead County is the easiest place to do it if you are getting married in Glacier National Park. The Flathead County Clerk of Court is in Kalispell, which is the main hub near the west entrance.
You and your partner will both need to appear in person at the Clerk of Court to get your license. Bring a valid photo ID and be prepared to pay the standard license fee. There is no waiting period in Montana, so you can get married the same day you pick it up. The license is valid anywhere in the state.
Most couples flying in for their elopement plan to get the license a day or two before the ceremony. The process usually takes less than thirty minutes. After the ceremony your officiant will sign the license and you will return it to the same office so your marriage can be officially recorded.
For couples traveling from out of state, Montana does not require residency. You only need to get the license in Montana and use it in Montana. This makes it easy to plan your Glacier National Park wedding without any extra steps.
The Best Time of Year to Get Married at Big Bend
Big Bend sits high along Going-to-the-Sun Road, so the season you choose matters. The weather changes fast in the mountains, the road has a short opening window, and crowds shift a lot throughout the summer. Here is what to expect.
Weather
Going to the Sun Road usually opens in late June or early July once the snow is cleared. Before that, Big Bend is not accessible at all. Early summer still brings snow along the edges of the road, cold mornings, and unpredictable rain. July and August have the warmest temperatures, but afternoon storms are common. Wind is normal at this elevation and can be strong enough to affect hair and clothing. Smoke from regional wildfires can appear later in the summer and may impact visibility.
By September the air cools down and the light changes. Early fall often has the clearest views of the entire season. Once the first winter storms arrive the road closes again, which can happen as early as late September or October.
Crowds
Big Bend is one of the busiest roadside locations in Glacier National Park. Midday in July and August is the most crowded with visitors and full parking. Sunrise and sunset are the best times for privacy. Early season and late season also mean fewer people around the pullout. If avoiding crowds is a priority, plan your ceremony for sunrise or choose a shoulder season date before peak tourism hits or after it starts to taper off.
Overall, the best window for Big Bend is July through early September, with sunrise offering the quietest and most reliable experience.
Bride and groom kissing on Going-to-the-Sun Road at Big Bend in Glacier National Park (Black and White)
Where to Stay Near Big Bend
Most couples stay near the west entrance of Going to the Sun Road since it puts you close to Big Bend and makes it easy to reach the rest of the park. The area has a mix of hotels, lodges, cabins, and plenty of Airbnb and Vrbo options. Below is a simple breakdown of both so you can choose what fits your plans, your style, and your guest needs.
Airbnbs/VRBOs
Stay Treetops - cutie a-frames just 10 minutes to west entrance
A-frame with hot tub - 8 minutes to Glacier
Glacier Hideaway - West Glacier Log Home
Riverfront Retreat - 15 Minutes from Glacier
Montana Treehouse Retreat — Treehouse or A-Frame about 30 minutes to west entrance
Treehouse in Columbia Falls — Treehouse about 30 minutes to west entrance
Bowman - cute tiny home with big windows and hot tub about 30 minutes to west entrance
Getaway - Nature, hot tub, 30 minutes from west entrance
Classic A-Frame in Whitefish — I have a soft spot for this a-frame, I think it is SO beautiful and has a hot tub. Located about 40 minutes from west entrance!! SO worth it though.
Under Canvas Glacier - Glamping just a few minutes from the west entrance
Hotels, Lodges, & Resorts
Great Northern Resort - gorgeous resort just a mile from West Glacier!
The Great Bear Inn - Deluxe Bed and Breakfast near Glacier National Park
Glacier Highland - A Mountain View Hotel in West Glacier, MT
Campgrounds
Glacier National Park Reservation Campgrounds - These are campgrounds inside the park!! If you can get a reservation, yay!! But our plan needs to be super solid tight before your trip because there isn’t any service in the park, so print out anything you need/want from our convos.
Glacier Campground - is literally right next to the West Entrance and they have a cutie restaurant on site!! :)
KOA - This West Glacier KOA is 3 miles from the park!
Moose Creek RV Resort - This is 2 miles from the West Entrance of the park and you can park your RV here or stay in a Glamping pod!
Lake Five Resort - Camping and rustic cabins near the west entrance
Big Bend Elopement Photographer and Videographer
If you’re planning a Big Bend elopement and want both photo and video that feels real and true to the day, I’m your person.
I’m Shayna Lloyd, a Glacier National Park elopement photographer and videographer based in Northwest Montana. I’ve spent years working in Glacier and I know the park logistics that matter, like crowd timing, permit rules, and how to build a timeline that actually works on Going to the Sun Road.
Big Bend is one of my favorite ceremony sites because it gives you huge alpine views with easy access, which makes it perfect for couples who want the Glacier experience without a big hike.
When you hire me, I help you plan the details, keep the day moving, and document everything in my earthy, campy, vlog meets indie film style. You’ll walk away with photos you can frame and a film you can rewatch for the rest of your life.
Best Glacier National Park Photographer and Videographer, Shayna Lloyd
Big Bend Wedding and Elopement Packages
Big Bend works for everything from a quick, private ceremony to a full day experience with family, portraits, and exploring Going-to-the-Sun Road. The package you choose really just determines how much of the day is documented, and how much breathing room you have to slow down and make it feel like more than just a ceremony at a pullout.
I offer both photography only and hybrid photo plus video packages for Big Bend elopements, depending on how you want to relive your day. All packages include planning support for the park logistics that matter here, like permit guidance, crowd timing, and building a realistic timeline around Going to the Sun Road.
If you keep it simple with a shorter package, Big Bend is perfect for a ceremony, portraits at the pullout, and a quick drive to a second nearby spot like Lake McDonald or Logan Pass. If you choose a longer package, your elopement can feel like a full Glacier day, with time to explore multiple locations, take your time with portraits, and plan for a sunrise or sunset ceremony to avoid crowds.
Travel fees are included for Big Bend and other Glacier National Park ceremony sites. Once you choose your package, we’ll map out what your day can look like based on the season, road access, and what kind of experience you want.
Final Tips for Eloping at Big Bend
Big Bend is an easy ceremony site, but it still comes with real Glacier logistics. These quick tips will help your day feel smooth instead of stressful.
Arrive early, especially in peak summer. Parking fills up fast and Going-to-the-Sun Road traffic can add delays.
Plan for wind. Big Bend sits at higher elevation and it is normal for it to be breezy, even on warm days. Bring layers and consider a hairstyle that can handle it.
Pack for weather changes. Mountain conditions can shift quickly, so bring a jacket, an umbrella, and something warm even if the forecast looks sunny.
Keep it simple. This location works best with a minimal setup and a short, meaningful ceremony so you are not fighting crowds or road noise.
Bring bear spray and know how to use it. Wildlife is part of Glacier, and being prepared is non negotiable.
If privacy matters, choose sunrise or sunset. Those times are calmer, the pullout is quieter, and the experience feels way more intimate.
And finally, build in extra time. Big Bend is the kind of spot where you will want to stop and take it all in, not rush through it.
Big Bend Wedding Inspiration + More Glacier National Park Wedding Planning Resources
Big Bend is one of the easiest ways to get that iconic Glacier backdrop without turning your wedding day into a hiking expedition. If the idea of huge mountains, a simple ceremony setup, and easy access sounds perfect, Big Bend is an incredible choice. The biggest thing to remember is timing. Plan around road access, crowds, and weather, and the experience will feel smooth, intentional, and fun.
