Red Lodge, Montana Wedding Guide
Red Lodge, Montana Wedding Guide
The cutest mountain town between Billings and Bozeman: All about getting married in Red Lodge, Montana!
If you're looking for a small town vibe for your Montana wedding, Red Lodge is the perfect town with stunning views. Red Lodge is a great place to get married if you and your partner are adventurous and want to incorporate activities like skiing, hiking, live music, visiting art galleries, or even bar hopping downtown after your ceremony. This blog will tell you everything you need to know about how to get married or elope in Red Lodge, Montana!
Where is Red Lodge?
The town of Red Lodge is in Southern Montana right against the Beartooth Mountains. The town is known as the gateway to Yellowstone National Park with it being only 1hr 45 min away.
How to Travel to Red Lodge, Montana
Major Airports near Red Lodge
Billings Logan International Airport (BIL) | 60 miles
How to Travel Around Red Lodge by Car
Since Red Lodge is a small town, I would recommend renting a car to get around. If you fly into the Billings Airport, you could rent a car there. Click here to see rental options from the Billings Airport!
Why Should You Elope in Red Lodge?
Red Lodge is such a great option when looking for a Montana elopement destination. It is one of the nearest mountain locations near Billings and the Beartooth Mountains are truly gorgeous! Anddd there's so many pretty outdoor locations to see and some fun activities in town to do during your elopement.
Pretty Venues
Mountains, Rivers, Lakes
Lively downtown
Countless options for elopements
Cute places to stay + get ready at
Tons of activities to incorporate into your elopement
FAQ’s About Eloping in Red Lodge
How many witnesses do you need to elope in Montana?
You need two witnesses! PSTTT, your photographer and videographer can be those witnesses for you!
How much does a permit cost?
A permit will cost $53 from the Clerk of the District Court.
Do you need an officiant?
In the state of Montana, the couple can choose anyone to solemnize the marriage.
Best Time of Year to Get Married/Elope in Red Lodge
Red Lodge Seasons & Weather
If you want to go skiing or want the cozy cabin Montana vibe, the winter is the time you would want to elope. If you want cooler, yet unpredictable weather, the fall and spring have pretty colors and smaller crowds. If you’re all for the beautiful summer weather and activities, then your decision is obvious!
Best Locations/Hikes/Spots for Your Red Lodge Elopement
The Beartooth Pass is known for being one of the most beautiful roadways in America and I can totally see why. The road starts in Red Lodge and goes all the way to the entrance of Yellowstone National Park. The views of the Beartooth Mountains paired with lakes and rivers along the way is sooo pretty and perfect for your adventure elopement. Click HERE to learn more about the beartooth pass.
2. Wildflower Weddings Venue
Montana Wildflower has a rustic barn, pond, and gorgeous flower gardens. If you need a venue for a big wedding or an intimate elopement, this venue works perfect!
3. Basin Creek Lakes Trail
If you and your partner are always down for a hike, Basin Creek would be a stunning location to get eloped. The hike is 7 miles roundtrip with waterfalls and two lakes at the top. Imagine having your ceremony at the lake with a pretty mountain backdrop, then fishing or taking a dip in the lake after!
4. Red Lodge Mountain
If you ski or snowboard, imagine getting married at the top of the mountain then skiing down to your reception, sooo cool. If you're more summer people, the lodge has a wedding venue and resources for a summer wedding or elopement.
5. Elk River Outfitters
If you're looking for a fun activity/venue combo, Elk River Outfitters has beautiful meadow and mountain views with horseback riding adventures. Riding horses to a meadow with a pretty backdrop for your ceremony would be such a fun way to spend your elopement day.
How to Legally Get Married in Montana
How to Get Your Montana Marriage License
Marriage License Process:
Apply for your marriage license online
Visit the 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 fee for credit cards.
Where to Stay In Red Lodge
Airbnbs/VRBOs
Hotels
Campgrounds
What to Do in Red Lodge/Fun Activity Ideas
Skiing at Red Lodge Mountain
Guided Rafting Trip
Horseback riding in the mountains
Go hiking - Click HERE to see the 10 best trails in Red Lodge
Relax in an Airbnb hot tub or sauna
Go out to eat downtown
Bar hopping with a side of swing dancing
Go fly fishing on one of Red Lodge’s rivers
Red Lodge Elopement Photographer and Videographer
Heyyy, I’m Shay. If vlogs-mixed-with-indie-films are you and your partner's vibe, click HERE to learn more about working with me for your Red Lodge, Montana wedding/elopement!
