How to Elope in Montana: Complete Montana Elopement Guide
Montana Elopement Guide (Updated for 2023)
If you’re here because you’re searching “how to elope in Montana” or “where to elope in Montana,” that probably means you and your partner are more of the adventurous type who would prefer a day full of hiking, fishing, or enjoying local brews and eats rather than paying for a big wedding! If you’ve been looking for a stunning destination for a mountain elopement or destination micro-wedding, then this blog post is exactly what you need. In this blog post, I’ll go over everything you need to know about how to elope in Montana — I’ll break it ALL down for you so you can stress less and truly enjoy the process of planning your dream trip with your partner.
Everything You Need to Know to Start Planning Your Montana Elopement
How to Travel To and Around Montana
In Montana, there are 5 international airports making it super easy to travel to:
When planning your elopement, first choose your elopement location and then book your flight so that you aren’t having to drive super far. When you fly into Montana, renting a car is a must. There is so much to see here and having a car allows you to have the freedom to explore for several days!
And if you live in one of the bordering states, I highly recommend making a road trip out of it. You will get to see so many beautiful landscapes and you can gain so many more amazing experiences during your elopement week.
Best Time of the Year to Elope in Montana
Because Montana has so many different locations you can elope at, you can elope here year-round, but during certain times of the year, locations may be closed.
Spring (April - June)
Montana is stunning in the spring, but be sure to onlyyyy book during these months if you’re down for *anything.* The weather is highly unpredictable, and I would plan for rain or even spring snow! Many hiking trails will still be closed due to snow melt, but if you don’t mind a little rain (perfect for a moody and romantic elopement) then you will get to enjoy all of the wildflowers blooming, the foliage getting greener and more lush, and snow-capped mountains in all directions. During the spring months, the temperature highs usually range from 50 to 70 degrees.
Summer (July - August)
The summer months in Montana are warm and sunny with some thunderstorms. If you don’t mind the increase in crowds, this is one of the better times of the year to elope in Montana. With the warm weather, there are so many different outdoor activities you can enjoy on your elopement day or during your trip. Be prepared for the risk of smoke from wildfires, but don’t let it ruin your trip if it happens! Smoke looks incredible in photos + videos!
Fall (September - October)
Montana experiences that quintessential fall foliage that is gorgeous — the tamaracks here are famous for a reason! While the temperatures start to get pretty chilly towards the end of September, fall elopements are amazing as long as you prepare with some warmer clothing. There is always a risk of an early freeze + snow, so be prepared for fall or winter vibes in these months haha!
Winter (November - March)
If you know anything about Montana it's that we get a LOT of snow. And although this means it gets quite chilly, it also means that we have some of the most epic snowy mountain backdrops. And if you and your partner are big into winter sports, then this would be an epic time to elope here. Think about it: getting ready together in a mountain lodge, reading love letters to each other outside in the trees, spending the day skiing or snowboarding, sipping hot cocoa or whiskey in a ski lodge while cuddling, and ending the day swimming at a hot springs!? Yes please!! It is important to mention that many areas experience road closures during this time of year so you need to keep that in mind while planning your elopement!
Why Should You Elope in Montana?
I’m an avid traveler who has lived in Montana for over half my life, and I still find this place endlessly inspiring. My couples travel here to start their marriages because they have a deep reverence for nature, they want to prioritize exploring and traveling in their marriages, and they want an experience that can hold both outdoor adventure and incredible food and drinks and local culture all together. I might be a bit biased but there are seriously an endless number of reasons to elope in Montana especially if exploring new places is your thing!. Here are a few reasons that really stand out:
The scenery here is literally breathtaking: Alpine meadows, snow-capped mountains, lush forests, rivers, glacial lakes, waterfalls, and open fields filled with wildflowers just to name a few of the unique landscapes you will get to experience.
Montana is home to two amazing national parks: Glacier National Park & Yellowstone.
It’s easy to escape the crowds and find an intimate location for your elopement with epic views.
There are so many unique and adventurous activities to experience.
It offers opportunities to see tons of wildlife.
It has so many epic hikes with views well worth the trek!
It’s home to several adorable small towns with lots of historical charm and character.
The larger towns, namely Missoula, Butte, and Bozeman, are a blast! They have so much going on in the art scene, tons of restaurants and breweries, a fun downtown scene, and are gateways to some of the most amazing scenic spots.
Best Places to Elope in Montana
Montana seriously has so many different places to elope. From beautiful lake views to lush forests and meadows, there are endless options to choose from! Below I give a breakdown of my favorite locations in different regions and get ready cause I am giving you so many locations to consider, all unique and beautiful in their own way!
Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is by far one of the most popular elopement locations in Montana and for good reason. If you’re imagining eloping in front of a turquoise-blue glacier lake with snow-capped mountains in the background during golden hour, then this is the place to do it! With miles and miles of hiking trails, there are endless locations here to explore on your elopement day. There are five entrances to Glacier National Park, all with different pros for the type of experience you want to have on your wedding day!
West Glacier + Camas (West access to Going to the Sun Road)
The West Glacier entrance is home to quite a few permitted ceremony spots, and it’s the most common choice for my couples who are bringing their loved ones along and combining their Glacier wedding with an experience outside of the park! If you’re hosting a reception back at your lodging or a venue, or you have dinner plans in a nearby town, or you’re simply going to Glacier for your adventure session — you’ll probably end up here! My couples love Belton Bridge, Lake McDonald, The Trail of Cedars/Avalanche Lake, and Big Bend to name a few West Glacier locations!
Read about Tristan + Morgan’s Avalanche Amphitheatre wedding here!
East Glacier/Two Medicine
The town of East Glacier is the gateway to the Two Medicine entrance to Glacier National Park. I *love* Two Medicine for my couples who want *mean mountains* without having to hike — they’re called the “American Swiss Alps” for a reason. The Two Medicine entrance has some lovely permitted ceremony spots, including Pray Lake, which is one of the most accessible locations for disabled + elderly guests.
St. Mary (East access to Going to the Sun Road)
St. Mary is the gateway to the east entrance to Going to the Sun Road! My couples typically enter through West Glacier and drive the entirety of the road to get to the locations that are closer to the St. Mary entrance — this is because Going to the Sun Road is an attraction/activity in and of itself! However, if you have a large group, it might make more sense to stay in St. Mary. The most popular location on St. Mary Lake is definitely Sun Point, which happens to be my favorite place in the park to take photos/videos!
Read about Elijah + Gabby’s Going to the Sun Road adventure + Sun Point ceremony here!
Many Glacier
Many Glacier is probably the most “out of the way” entrance for most couples, but it’s completely worth it in my opinion! It’s home to the iconic Many Glacier Hotel — you can get married ON A BOAT on Swiftcurrent Lake before heading over to the famous Grinnell Glacier hike. Uhmmm, yes please.
Read about Jordan + Rjika’s stunning Many Glacier wedding here! (Coming Soon!)
Polebridge/North Fork
I have such a soft spot for Polebridge and the North Fork entrance! Polebridge is a tiny village right at the North Fork entrance to Glacier National Park, and it’s home to the charming local treasure that is the Polebridge Mercantile. When my couples love to fish, I always pitch getting their licenses and fishing the North Fork of the Flathead River before grabbing a huckleberry bear claw at the Merc. Then, we enter the North Fork entrance to Glacier and enjoy a picnic at Bowman Lake. It’s magic.
For more information on how to elope in Glacier National Park, check out this guide where I give you everything you need to start planning your elopement here!
FAQs About Eloping in Glacier National Park
Can we elope at Glacier National Park?
Yes!! You can get married in the park and then have a big reception later, or have a super small wedding in the park with your closest loved ones.
Do we need a permit to elope in Glacier National Park?
Yes, a special use permit is required. More information on how to obtain your permit can be found in the permits section of this guide.
When is the best time of the year to elope in Glacier National Park?
Honestly, you can get married here at any time of the year, it just depends on what you are wanting! Keep in mind that with winter elopements, there may be many road closures due to the weather.
Are dogs allowed at Glacier National Park?
Yes, but there are specifically designated areas where you can bring your dogs!
How much is it to elope in Glacier National Park/How much does it cost to get married at Glacier National Park?
It costs $125 to submit your ceremony permit application.
NW Montana
NW Montana is my personal stomping grounds and every day I wake up in awe at how beautiful it is here! Surrounded by beautiful mountains with so many different types of scenery, Northwest Montana is the perfect elopement location for epic views that tend to be much less crowded than Glacier National Park.
FAQs About Eloping in NW Montana
What is the best time of the year to elope in NW Montana?
You can elope here at any time of the year, it just depends on what you are wanting to do for your elopement day. If you are wanting an all-day hiking adventure, then I would recommend sticking with a time of year when there is no snow, so the summer and early fall months would be best.
What airport should we fly into for this area?
The best airport to fly into would be Glacier National Park International Airport.
Should we rent a car?
Yes, pretty much no matter what area you are eloping as in Montana, I think a car is a necessity. There is so much to do and see that it allows you the freedom to do as much as you would like.
Missoula Area
If small-town vibes with rich history and historical charm surrounded by the most beautiful scenery are what you are going for on your elopement day then definitely consider the Missoula area. In and around Missoula, you will find so many amazing elopement locations. From trendy and artsy downtown areas to tons of beautiful scenic nature spots, there are so many options for where to spend your elopement day!
Missoula
Alberton Gorge
Bitterroot
For more information on planning a Missoula elopement, check out my Missoula Elopement Guide where I take a deep dive into each of these locations and so much more!
FAQs About Eloping in the Missoula Area
What is the best time of year to elope in Missoula?
Missoula is a beautiful elopement location year-round so it ultimately depends on what you want. If you love winter sports like skiing, snowshoeing, and dog sledding, then December through March would be ideal. But, if you prefer to be a little warmer on your elopement day, then June through September would be the best months. And if you’re wanting to have some beautiful fall foliage in the background of your elopement, you cannot go wrong with a Fall elopement.
What Airport should we fly into?
Missoula International Airport would be the best airport to fly into.
Should we rent a car?
If you’re wanting to explore outside of the downtown Missoula area then I would say that renting a car is the way to go. This way you have the freedom to go whenever and wherever so you can enjoy as many activities as you would like.
Butte Area
Butte is an iconic historic mining town that has so much charm and rich history. The surrounding area is rolling hills and is home to some of the best fishing in the world. So if fishing is something you want to incorporate into your elopement, this is definitely a place to consider. I actually lived in the Anaconda/Phillipsburg area for four years so I know the area and all the best elopement locations. Some of my favorite areas in the Butte area for an elopement are:
Butte
Anaconda + Philipsburg: 1000% recommend having your elopement at The Ranch at Rock Creek. This luxury ranch has everything you need to make your elopement weekend one to remember.
Georgetown: My two favorite areas here for an elopement are Discovery Ski Hill and Georgetown Lake.
For more information on eloping in the Butte area, check out this guide.
FAQs About Eloping in the Butte Area
What is the best time of the year to elope in the Butte Area?
While all times of the year are gorgeous here, I think winter and early spring is the best time. This is the most ideal winter elopement location for those wanting to take advantage of the skiing at Discovery Ski Hill.
What airport should we fly into when eloping in the Butte Area?
The two closest international airports to the Butte Area are the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) and Missoula International Airport (MSO).
Helena
Helena is the state capital of Montana so it's a city that holds a lot of historical significance. This charming city is surrounded by tons of breathtaking scenery and is the perfect location to add some adventure to your elopement day. And it’s the most ideal for couples who want to do some fishing on their trip. Here are some of my favorite elopement locations in Helena for you to consider.
Missouri River: Best place for fly fishing.
FAQs About Eloping in Helena
What airport should fly into when eloping in Helena?
The two closest international airports to the Butte Area are the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) and Missoula International Airport (MSO).
What is the best time of the year to elope in Helena?
This all depends on the type of activities you want to be doing on your trip and your elopement day. Since this area is known for fly fishing, the warmer months would be better if that is something you are wanting to do.
Bozeman Area
Bozeman is such a special city in Montana that has so much to offer for an elopement. Unlike other super popular elopement locations, you won’t have to worry as much about big crowds and permits. In my opinion, the best way to do a Bozeman elopement is to spend the day hiking to a beautiful location for your elopement ceremony and pictures and then spend your evening in downtown Bozeman bar-hopping and enjoying the nightlife. This charming city will help you make your elopement day unforgettable! And this is the perfect place for people coming from out of state would don’t want to be out in the middle of nowhere. There’s a good mixture of beautiful nature and city life.
Here are some of my favorite elopement locations in Bozeman, Montana:
For more detailed information on how to plan your Bozeman, MT elopement, check out this guide!
FAQs About Eloping in Bozeman
What is the best time of year to elope in Bozeman?
Honestly, any time of the year here is stunning. It just depends on the type of weather you want to have. In the winter months, you could do a cozy downtown elopement with some bar-hopping and in the warmer months, you could do a hiking elopement.
What airport should be fly into when visiting Bozeman?
It’s best to fly into Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN).
What should we do on our elopement day in Bozeman?
Bozeman is one of my favorite Montana elopement locations because it is the perfect place to have both an adventurous elopement and a kick-ass city elopement. Or heck, why not both? My recommendation would be to start your day early by going on a hiking adventure out in nature for your ceremony and then spend your evening celebrating in downtown Bozeman.
Livingston/Yellowstone:
If you have seen the show Yellowstone then you know that this area is the epitome of cowboy culture. With epic hiking, breathtaking scenery, western culture, and up and coming art scene, this is a pretty unique place to elope in Montana. But, while this is one of the most amazing places to elope in Montana, the permitting process is pretty extensive so that's something to keep in mind. But, here are my favorite elopement locations in the area.
FAQs About Eloping Livingston/Yellowstone
Can you elope in Yellowstone National Park?
Yes, but only in the pre-approved ceremony locations.
Do you need a permit to elope in Yellowstone?
Yes, you need a permit. More information on how to get that permit can be found in the permits section of this blog.
When is the best time of year to elope in Livingston/Yellowstone?
While most couples opt to elope in these areas when it is warm and sunny, Yellowstone is open year-round so there is the option to do a snowy winter elopement.
Where should we elope in Yellowstone National Park?
In Yellowstone, you are only allowed to have your elopement ceremony at one of the pre-approved ceremony locations. You can find more information on those here.
How much does it cost to elope in Yellowstone National Park?
It is $250 to obtain your special use permit to elope in Yellowstone.
Where should we fly into when eloping in Livingston/Yellowstone?
Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) is the closest and most accessible international airport for this area.
Dillon
Dillon is an area in Montana known for its Western culture. Just imagine cowboys, epic fly fishing, and historical dive bars. If you and your partner are wanting a Western-inspired elopement, this is the place to do it. There is even an Old West ghost town known as Bannack which is chalked full of history. Dillon is also well known for skiing and some amazing hot springs which would be perfect for a winter elopement. The best areas here for an elopement are:
Dillon, MT
Bannack: This is an Old West ghost town best known for being the location of Montana’s first gold rush back in 1862.
Elk Horn Hot Springs: Imagine having your elopement ceremony in the snow, skiing, and then ending the day with a relaxing evening in the Elk Horn Hot Springs. I seriously couldn’t imagine a better winter elopement day!
FAQs About Eloping in Dillion
When is the best time of the year to elope in Dillon?
You can elope here year-round, but I recommend planning your elopement around the activities that you most want to do. If you want to hike, go fishing, and explore, stick with the warmer months, but if skiing and hot springs are more your vibe, then a winter elopement is perfect for you.
What airport should we fly into when eloping in Dillon?
Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) is the closest and most accessible international airport for this area.
Best Places to Stay in Montana
Where to Stay in Glacier National Park
East Glacier
West Glacier
Where to Stay in NW Montana
Flathead Valley
Kootenai Falls
Mission Valley
Swan Valley
Where to Stay in the Missoula Area
Where to Stay in the Butte Area
Where to Stay in Helena
Where to Stay in Livingston/Yellowstone
Where to Stay in Bozeman
Bodhi Farms (Glamping)
Where to Stay in Dillon
Montana Marriage Laws and Permits
How to Obtain Your Montana Marriage License:
Apply for your marriage license online.
Visit a County clerk’s office in person (both of you) to sign the application & provide a valid photo ID.
Once you sign your license, you will need to pay the $53 fee. Cash or card is accepted but there will be an additional feel for credit card.
Montana Marriage Laws
Is Montana residency required? No
Witnesses required? Yes, 2
Officiant required? Yes
How long is the license valid? It will expire after 180 days.
Waiting period? No, you can get married the same day you obtain your marriage license.
Montana Elopement Permits
Another important step in the Montana elopement planning process is determining if you need a special use permit. Special use permits vary by location so here is a breakdown of the places where you will need to apply for one:
Glacier National Park: Special Use Permit ($125)
Download the special use permit application.
Look through the permit info and designated wedding locations to help you fill out the permit application.
Email your completed application to glac_sup@nps.gov. They will reach out to you when they are ready to process your permit. A credit card payment will be taken at that time.
Once your permit has been processed, they will email it to you to be signed. You can email your signed permit back to glac_sup@nps.gov.
Yellowstone National Park: Special Use Permit ($250)
Download the special use permit application.
Look through the permit info and designated wedding locations to help you fill out the permit application.
Send your completed application and $250 application fee to yell_sup@nps.gov
Once you have received your final copy, sign and return it.
*Important Notes
Applications will be accepted up to 12 months in advance and no later than 2- 4 weeks before the requested ceremony date.
The approved permit must be with you during your event.
You can only hold your ceremony in a pre-approved ceremony location.
You and your guests will still be required to pay the park entrance fee.
Montana State Parks: Special Use Permit (price varies by park)
Complete a Special Use Permit application and mail it to the FWP Regional Office in the area where you wish to elope.
If your application is approved, you will receive your approved permit with directions on how to pay the fee.
Best Activities to do on your Montana Elopement Day
If you’re deciding to elope in Montana then you need to make the most of all of the fun and adventurous activities you can do. Whether you want to do one of these activities on your elopement day or during your trip, here are a few ideas:
Enjoy a scenic hike in Yellowstone or Glacier National Park.
Take a scenic drive along Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Enjoy a romantic evening soaking in a hot spring.
Go Skiing or snowboarding at Discovery Ski Hill or Big Sky Resort.
Go Flyfishing.
Horseback riding in the mountains
Go kayaking or paddle boarding in a glacier lake.
Enjoy a fun night out in downtown Bozeman.
Hire a caterer and enjoy a private and romantic dinner at your Airbnb.
Montana Elopement Vendors
Hair/Makeup
Florists
Caterers
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Montana Diaries: We’re a full coverage photography + videography team!
Officiants
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Montana Elopement Photographer & Videographer
Hi, I’m Shayna Lloyd, the lead creative and owner of Montana Diaries. We are your Montana elopement photography and videography team — we serve adventurous, laid-back couples who want story-driven and experience-based photos and videos from their elopements + destination weddings. I can’t wait to talk to you about your Montana elopement! Click here to learn more about our experience + pricing.
