Unique and Emotional Boat Ceremony on Swiftcurrent Lake | Many Glacier Wedding Photos and Video

Unique and Emotional Boat Ceremony on Swiftcurrent Lake | Many Glacier Wedding Photos and Video

Jordan and Rjika’s incredible Many Glacier Destination Wedding

Jordan and Rjika had the most incredible destination wedding at Many Glacier in Glacier National Park — they held their ceremony on a boat on Swiftcurrent Lake in front of the iconic Many Glacier Hotel, saw a Grizzly bear during their adventure session, and held an incredible Geology themed reception at East Glacier Lodge. Keep reading for allll of the incredible destination wedding inspo!! 

Jordan + Rjika’s Many Glacier Wedding Film:

Many Glacier Destination Wedding Timeline

In the heart of Glacier National Park, Jordan and Rjika's wedding day was truly memorable. From a boat ceremony in Many Glacier to an adventurous photo session where they crossed paths with a bear, each moment was filled with beauty and adventure. Keep reading to delve into their day's timeline.

Jordan and Rjika's first look at their wedding in front of the iconic Many Glacier Hotel

Getting ready at Glacier Park Lodge

At Glacier Park Lodge in East Glacier, Jordan and Rjika prepared for their wedding in separate hotel rooms, a choice that made coordinating with friends and family a breeze. For future couples planning their own destination weddings, the convenience of having everyone in one place cannot be overstated. Glacier Park Lodge's location in East Glacier provides easy access to the stunning beauty of Glacier National Park, making it an ideal choice for those seeking both convenience and natural splendor for their special day.

White wedding heels with bows on back at Glacier Park Lodge

First look overlooking the iconic Many Glacier Hotel

Before their ceremony, Jordan and Rjika shared a special first look overlooking the iconic Many Glacier Hotel and Swiftcurrent Lake. It was a moment for just the two of them to take in the view and mentally prepare for the big moment. For future couples planning their weddings, scheduling a first look can offer a private moment amidst the excitement of the day and a chance to appreciate the beauty of the surroundings before saying "I do."

Jordan and Rjika's first look at Many Glacier

Boat Ceremony on Swiftcurrent Lake at Many Glacier

Jordan and Rjika's ceremony unfolded aboard a boat cruising the tranquil waters of Swiftcurrent Lake, all thanks to Glacier Park Boat Company. It was a blast! Picture this: the gentle rocking of the boat, the stunning vistas of the rugged mountains reflecting off the clear waters, and the crisp mountain air making every moment feel extra special. It wasn't just a ceremony; it was an adventure. For couples on the hunt for a wedding experience that breaks the mold and leaves guests talking for years to come, this boat ceremony is an absolute gem. It's not just about saying "I do" – it's about immersing yourselves and your loved ones in the beauty and magic of Glacier National Park. Trust us, you won't regret it!

Bride (Rjika) crying during wedding ceremony on boat on Swiftcurrent Lake in Many Glacier

Portraits on the shores of Swiftcurrent Lake

After their boat ceremony, Jordan and Rjika and their guests enjoyed some snacks on the shore of Swiftcurrent Lake. It was a relaxed moment to recharge and take in the beautiful scenery. Then, they gathered for group photos with friends and family before heading off for a couples' adventure session in Glacier National Park.

Family wedding portraits on the shores of Swiftcurrent Lake at Many Glacier in Glacier National Park

Seeing a Grizzly Bear During Their Adventure Session 

During their adventure session near Many Glacier, Jordan and Rjika got an unexpected treat: a sighting of a grizzly bear right near the entrance to the park. It was an exhilarating moment that perfectly encapsulated their love for nature and the wild beauty of Glacier National Park. With hearts racing and cameras clicking, they captured this awe-inspiring encounter before continuing their session — haha, spoiler alert, the Grizzlies love to hang out in this spot!! Then, they wrapped up their adventure at Two Medicine, a fitting end to a day filled with excitement, natural beauty, and unforgettable memories.

Bride and groom see grizzly bear at their Many Glacier wedding in Glacier National Park

Reception at Glacier Park Lodge

At Glacier Park Lodge, Jordan and Rjika's reception took place in the courtyard under a huge tent. They enjoyed dinner, toasts, and dancing with their guests. It was a beautiful and fun celebration, surrounded by the love of family and friends.

Wedding reception tent at Glacier Park Lodge

Geology themed wedding reception

Jordan and Rjika's wedding reception at Glacier Park Lodge was a unique geology-themed affair that perfectly reflected their shared passion for nature and adventure. Each table was adorned with vibrant wildflowers, complemented by an array of different rocks and minerals carefully arranged as centerpieces. Table signs labeled each geological specimen, adding an educational touch to the decor. The atmosphere was both elegant and whimsical, with the natural beauty of Glacier National Park serving as a stunning backdrop. Their creative theme served as a reminder that couples should consider their surroundings and personal interests when planning their own wedding. By incorporating elements that are meaningful to them, they can create a celebration that truly reflects their love story and leaves a lasting impression on their guests.

Geology themed reception - fish fossil as a center piece at Montana wedding

How to get married on a boat in Glacier National Park

Planning a ceremony on board a boat in Glacier National Park is a breathtaking option for couples seeking a truly unique wedding experience. One way to make this dream a reality is by booking a group tour with Glacier Park Boat Company. Offering a variety of boat tours on the park's pristine lakes, Glacier Park Boat Company provides couples with the opportunity to exchange vows surrounded by the park's majestic beauty. From the serene waters of Swiftcurrent Lake to the iconic vistas of Lake McDonald, there are endless possibilities for crafting a memorable ceremony against the backdrop of glacier-carved peaks and crystal-clear waters. With the help of Glacier Park Boat Company's experienced staff, couples can coordinate every detail of their boat ceremony, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable celebration of love amidst the awe-inspiring landscapes of Glacier National Park.

Here are the options for tours in Glacier National Park:

Group Reservations

Group reservations consisting of 15 or more paying guests will receive 1 complimentary ticket. Groups of 30 or more paying guests will receive 2 complimentary tickets. This is not a private tour and will include other paying guests, full price tickets apply. Groups of 15 or more will be booked on the following group tour times:

Lake McDonald: 12:15pm or 4:15pm

St Mary Lake: 12pm or 5pm

Two Medicine: 11am

Many Glacier: 10am

Private Tours

Take in Glacier National Park on a Private Scenic Tour, perfect for intimate weddings or a team building activity, we welcome you onto our historic boats the DeSmet at Lake McDonald or Little Chief and Joy 11 at St Mary Lake. Private tours take place at the following tour times:

Lake McDonald: 12:15pm or 4:15pm

St Mary Lake: 12pm or 5pm

Bride and groom, Jordan and Rjika, exiting the boat on Swiftcurrent Lake on their wedding day

All about Many Glacier weddings

In this section, we'll explore the ins and outs of tying the knot in the breathtaking Many Glacier area of Glacier National Park. From obtaining permits to selecting the perfect ceremony spot against the backdrop of majestic peaks, we'll guide you through the steps to create your dream wedding in this iconic wilderness setting. Whether you're envisioning an intimate elopement or a grand celebration with friends and family, Many Glacier offers an array of options to make your special day truly unforgettable.

Why Jordan and Rjika chose Many Glacier for their wedding

Jordan and Rjika took a vacation to Many Glacier and fell in love with the beauty — they knew it would be the perfect destination for their wedding. 

How to get to Many Glacier

  • Plane? – what airport do you fly into? How far of a drive is it from the airport?

  • Car? – should you rent a car? Take a taxi?

    • You should absolutely rent a car for your Glacier National Park trip because all of the towns and attractions are spread out with limited public transportation. 

  • Do you need to download offline maps? Will there be cell service?

    • There is limited to no cell service in Glacier National Park, so be sure to download your maps whenever you have wifi or service! 

  • Do you need a 4WD car to access this location? Is the road rocky/rough?

    • You won’t typically need a 4WD car to access most of the main attractions in Glacier National Park, but it will be useful for backroads! There are plenty of rocky and rough roads in NW Montana, so be prepared for that. 

Weather info + best time of year to elope in Many Glacier

Many Glacier experiences a variety of weather throughout the year, so choosing the best time to get married depends on your preferences. Summer, from June to August, typically offers the warmest temperatures and the most accessibility to the park's amenities, making it a popular time for weddings. However, this also means more crowds and potential for afternoon thunderstorms. Spring and fall offer cooler temperatures and fewer visitors, providing a more intimate setting for your ceremony. Keep in mind that winter brings snow and limited access to Many Glacier, but for couples seeking a truly unique and adventurous wedding experience, it can be a magical time to exchange vows amidst the snowy wonderland — buttt The Many Glacier Road closes the third weekend in November, weather permitting. Ultimately, the best time to get married at Many Glacier depends on your vision for your special day and your tolerance for varying weather conditions.

Places to Stay in Many Glacier

Where to get married in Many Glacier

  • A boat on Swiftcurrent Lake

  • A boat on Lake Josephine

  • Lake Josephine Shoreline

  • Many Glacier Hotel Green

  • (behind main Lodge)

  • Many Glacier Hotel–SW Beach

  • Many Glacier Hotel Beach

  • Many Glacier Amphitheater

Groom dips bride on a bridge at Many Glacier Hotel

Permits, passes, & legalities for getting married at Many Glacier

How much does it cost?

It costs $125 to apply to get married at Many Glacier in Glacier National Park.

How do you apply?

You can download the application for the special use permit by clicking here!

How long is it valid for?

Your permit allows your use for 2 hours!

What locations is it valid for?

You can review the ceremony permit locations in Glacier National Park at this link and request your specific spot on your application.

How long in advance do you need to apply for it?

I would apply literally as soon as you know where you want to get hitched!! Some years, my couples don’t even hear back until a few weeks before their big day so we’ll need to come up with back up plans just in case.

Do you & your guests still have to pay a separate entry/parking fee?

Your ceremony permit will allow you entry for the park’s reservation ticket system, but you will still need to pay for the general park pass fee.

Click here for more information about getting married in Glacier!

Many Glacier Wedding Vendors

Discover the vendors who made Jordan and Rjika's Many Glacier wedding a reality. From flowers to food, each played a crucial role in crafting a memorable celebration.

Glacier National Park Many Glacier Wedding Photographer and Videographer Shayna Lloyd headshot against gray backdrop

Many Glacier wedding photographer and videographer

Heyyy, I’m Shay, your fave Glacier photographer and videographer. As a Many Glacier wedding and elopement photographer and videographer, I specialize in capturing the love stories of adventurous and laid-back couples amidst the stunning landscapes of Glacier National Park. With my local expertise and deep understanding of the area, I am committed to providing couples with an unforgettable experience that perfectly reflects their unique style and personalities. Whether you're exchanging vows aboard a boat on Swiftcurrent Lake or saying "I do" against the backdrop of towering peaks, I am dedicated to documenting every moment of your special day with creativity, passion, and authenticity. For more information and pricing details, click here to visit my info and pricing page.