Step-by-Step Guide: How to Plan the Perfect Hiking Elopement
How to Plan an the Perfect Hiking Elopement
Eloping can mean absolutely anything - it can be the two of you at a cozy cabin, your families celebrating with you, a relaxing day on the beach, or an incredible hike! If the two of you love the outdoors and hitting the trails is your thing, incorporating a hike into your wedding day can be a great way to kick off the beginning of your marriage. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you step-by-step through the process of planning the perfect hiking elopement. Whether you're an experienced hiker or a beginner, we've got you covered.
Let’s dive deep into the essential aspects of organizing a memorable hiking elopement. We'll discuss how to select the ideal location, choose the right gear, and create a personalized ceremony that reflects your style and values. With our expert tips, you can confidently navigate the challenges of nature while celebrating your love in a breathtaking setting. Discover how to create a realistic timeline for your special day, ensuring you have enough time for both hiking and exchanging vows. Discover hidden gems and lesser-known hiking trails that offer stunning vistas and intimate moments. From permits and weather considerations to photography and catering options, we've covered every detail to make your hiking elopement a seamless and unforgettable experience.
Get ready to lace up your boots, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and embark on a one-of-a-kind adventure with your partner. Let's make your hiking elopement a celebration of love, nature, and cherished memories.
Why choose a hiking elopement?
A hiking elopement is an intimate ceremony that takes place in the great outdoors, surrounded by nature's beauty. It's an alternative to a traditional wedding, allowing couples to exchange vows in a more adventurous and unique setting. Instead of a grand venue, hiking elopements take place on scenic trails, mountaintops, or by stunning waterfalls.
Hiking elopements offer a sense of freedom and intimacy that is unmatched. They provide an opportunity for couples to connect with nature and each other on a deeper level. Whether you're seeking a serene forest or a majestic mountain peak, there's a hiking elopement location that will capture your heart.
What Kind of Hike Do You Want to Do on Your Elopement Day?
The first step to planning a hiking elopement is deciding what kind of hike you want to do! There are no rules - you can take a 10 mile hike up a mountain, a short woodsy walk, and anything in between. If you decide that you don’t want to hike at all, there are plenty of other adventures you can have too!
So before you start looking for trails, talk with your partner to decide how hard of a hike you want to do. Think about your experience - if you haven’t done much hiking, you probably won’t want to do a multi day trek for the first time on your elopement day. Along with experience and physical ability, consider how much of a challenge you actually want! Even if you are a seasoned hiker, you may prefer to relax a little bit on your elopement day, and opt for something that isn’t too strenuous.
For elopements, most couples choose hikes that are under 5 miles - while you can totally opt for a longer one, keeping it on the shorter side gives you an adventure, but leaves some time for other elopement day activities. It’s a challenge, without leaving you completely out of energy by the end! Keep in mind that elevation gain makes a big difference too - a short hike that’s very steep is usually harder than a long one over flat terrain.
Choose an Elopement Location
Another thing that can help before you decide which hike you want to do is to choose a general elopement location. Deciding on a park, or even a state or region can help you narrow down your options!
Some things to think about here can include how far from home you want to travel and what kind of scenery you want to see. After you’ve done this, it will be easier to look for a hiking trail that has what you’re looking for!
Split Up Your Elopement Day
If you’re eloping with family or inviting guests, but you still want to hike, you can definitely do both!
The first option is to invite your guests along for the adventure - if they’re down to hike and want to join you, that’s great! But, if this isn’t realistic for you because of accessibility needs or because your family isn’t into hiking, you can still have your hiking elopement.
I recommend a full day elopement to every couple - because this is your wedding day, and it deserves to be celebrated! But it’s especially important if you want to split up your day. You can spend the morning with your family, and have a ceremony at an easily accessible spot. Then, after the knot is tied and you take some photos together, the two of you can take off on your own for a hike! This gives you time to celebrate with your loved ones, as well as time to yourselves.
You can even do a two day elopement - spend one with your guests, and one for just the two of you!
Need some elopement inspo? Check these adventures out!
Do We Hike in Our Elopement Attire?
One of the things couples often wonder when it comes to hiking elopements is whether they’ll be hiking in their wedding attire. The answer is that it’s totally up to you!
Some couples choose to wear their elopement attire the entire way, while others pack it in their hiking bags and bring it with them. Don’t worry, we’ll talk about how to pack elopement dresses and suits in the next section!
For shorter hikes (under 5 miles), it’s often easier to wear your elopement attire the entire way. This gives you some opportunities for photos along the way! But for longer ones, you can bring it with you and change at the top. Another thing to consider when you’re deciding is how much privacy you’ll have once you reach the end of the hike - if the hike is forested and not too crowded, you can usually find a spot to change. But if the hike is really popular or if there aren’t any trees (like desert hikes, for example), this can be more difficult.
When you shop for elopement dresses, suits, or whatever you plan to wear, it can help to keep in mind that you’re planning a hiking elopement! Things like lightweight fabric, wrinkle resistance, and how comfortable your attire is can make a big difference.
How to Pack Elopement Attire in Your Backpack
If you decide to pack your elopement attire on your hike, here are the best ways to do so!
How to Pack an Elopement Dress for Hiking
To pack an elopement dress in your hiking backpack, I recommend getting a garment bag - preferably something waterproof to ensure your dress is safe. Rolling your dress is better than folding, as it prevents wrinkles and also takes up less room.
If your dress has boning in the bodice, you can fold it over. Then, take the skirt and roll it up. If the dress doesn’t have structure, you can roll the entire thing! If your garment bag is big enough, the best way to prevent wrinkles is to put your dress in there, then roll the bag. But if the garment bag is smaller, you can roll the dress before putting it inside.
How to Pack an Elopement Suit for Hiking
For elopement suits, you’ll need a garment bag too! Waterproof is best to prevent any disasters. It’s usually easier to strap the garment bag to the outside of the backpack. Get some bungee cords, and attach it to the bag!
How to Pack Florals for a Hiking Elopement
Along with your elopement attire, there are a few other things to pack - and this might include a bouquet! Carrying it in your hand the entire time can be a bit of a hassle, but you can pack it safely.
First, wrap the stems in a wet paper towel or washcloth to keep them fresh. Then, put a waterproof bag over the stems to prevent anything else in your bag getting wet. You can put the bouquet, stems down, in the front of your bag (many hiking backpacks have bungee cords on the front that can hold your bouquet), or into an outside pocket with the flowers sticking out!
Creating a hiking elopement checklist
To ensure you don't forget any crucial details, create a hiking elopement checklist. Here are some items to include:
Essential Gear: Make a list of hiking gear you'll need, such as hiking boots, backpacks, layers of clothing, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Ceremony Essentials: Include items specific to your ceremony, such as rings, vows, any ceremonial elements, and a marriage license if required.
Food and Water: Pack lightweight and non-perishable snacks for the hike, as well as a sufficient amount of water to stay hydrated.
Safety Gear: Include a first aid kit, a map, a compass, a whistle, and any other safety items recommended for the hiking trail.
Props: If you have any specific props or accessories you'd like to include in your photos, add them to the checklist.
Appropriate Clothing: Consider the weather conditions and pack appropriate clothing layers, including waterproof gear if needed.
Packing essentials for a hiking elopement
When it comes to packing for a hiking elopement, preparation is key. Here's a list of essentials to pack for your adventure:
Clothing Layers: Pack lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing that can be layered for changing weather conditions. Include a waterproof jacket, a hat, gloves, and comfortable hiking socks.
Sturdy Footwear: Invest in a good pair of hiking boots that provide ankle support and traction. Break them in before your elopement to avoid discomfort or blisters.
Navigation Tools: Carry a map, a compass, and a GPS device or smartphone with offline maps. Familiarize yourself with the trail and any potential landmarks or junctions.
Food and Water: Pack lightweight, high-energy snacks such as trail mix, energy bars, and dried fruits. Carry sufficient water or a water purification system to stay hydrated throughout the hike.
Safety Gear: Include a first aid kit, a whistle, a headlamp, and a multi-tool. These items can come in handy in case of emergencies or unexpected situations.
Proper Permitting: Remember if the location your hiking elopement is taking place, do not forget to bring a printed copy.
Pro Tip: Remember to pack light and only bring essentials to avoid unnecessary weight and bulk during your hike.
Obtaining necessary permits and permissions
Before heading out on your hiking elopement, it's important to ensure you have all the necessary permits and permissions. Here's some step that’ll help to obtain the required documentation:
Research: Start by researching the location-specific permits and regulations. Visit official websites or contact local park authorities for detailed information. Understand any restrictions, fees, or timeframes associated with obtaining permits.
Apply Early: Permit availability may be limited, especially for popular hiking destinations. Apply for permits as early as possible to secure your preferred date and location. Some permits may have a specific application window, so be sure to check the deadlines.
Complete the Application: Fill out the permit application accurately and provide all required information. This may include details such as the number of participants, ceremony duration, and any special requests. Double-check your application to ensure accuracy and completeness.
Pay Fees: Some permits may have associated fees. Be prepared to pay the required amount when submitting your application. Keep a copy of the payment confirmation for your records.
Follow Up: After submitting your application, follow up with the issuing authority to confirm receipt and processing. Keep track of any correspondence or confirmation emails to avoid miscommunication.
By following these steps and being proactive in obtaining permits, you can ensure a smooth and legal hiking elopement experience.
Tips for a successful hiking elopement
To ensure your hiking elopement goes smoothly, here are some additional tips to keep in mind:
Do a Trial Hike: If possible, visit the hiking location before your elopement day. Familiarize yourself with the trail, landmarks, and any potential challenges. This will help you plan and anticipate any difficulties.
Check the Weather: Keep a close eye on the weather forecast leading up to your elopement day. Be prepared for changing conditions and have backup plans in case of inclement weather.
Leave No Trace: Practice Leave No Trace principles and respect the environment. Pack out any trash, avoid damaging vegetation, and stay on designated trails to minimize your impact.
Inform Loved Ones: Let friends or family members know about your elopement plans and provide them with your hiking itinerary. This ensures someone knows your whereabouts in case of emergencies.
Enjoy the Journey: Remember that the journey is just as important as the destination. Take the time to soak in the surroundings, appreciate the beauty of nature, and savor each moment with your partner.
Hiring a Photographer for Your Hiking Elopement
Your photographer will make a huge difference in your elopement day - so if you’re planning a hiking elopement, make sure you book someone who’s experienced with the outdoors. This is essential, because when you’re in the backcountry or hiking, it’s definitely different from a traditional wedding! There are safety concerns, things to bring, and Leave No Trace considerations to remember.
As an elopement photographer, my job is to help you plan the perfect day - and that looks different for every couple! I’ll be there to find the perfect hike, give you recommendations for places to stay, make a timeline, and everything you need for your hiking elopement.
Contact me to start planning!
Your adventure hiking elopement photographer
that’s me, Rylee!
One of the best ways to make an elopement special is to hire a photographer! Being able to see your photos after the day is over is so magical - and it’ll transport you back to that incredible day. You’ll be able to see the entire story unfold all over again!
Another reason why hiring an elopement photographer makes your elopement special is because I also double as a planning assistant! Through getting to know you and figuring out what you’re dreaming of for your elopement day, I’ll craft the perfect adventure, completely personalized to the two of you.
If you’re ready to plan a special, meaningful, personal elopement day, contact me!
Hiking Elopement Packages
Planning and Resources:
From phone chats, happy hour, brewery dates to multiple questionnaires. I want to get to know your love & values so I can create a timeless experience that reflects the most authentic you that will last forever through imagery
Complementary planning assistance from me
locations ideas, checklists, timelines, & vendor recommendations
Fully edited, High-Resolution photos
Custom Online Gallery
Personal Printing Rights
Sneak Peek Photos
Custom GIF’s & Double Exposures
Traveling Included
