Waterton Lakes National Park is one of Alberta’s hidden gems for couples who want an unforgettable elopement experience! Tucked away in the southwestern corner of the province, Waterton’s incredible landscapes offer nothing less than breathtaking mountain views, crystal-clear lakes, and unique wildlife, making it a perfect destination for an adventurous, intimate wedding. In this guide, I’ll be walking you through everything you need to know to plan your elopement here!
Waterton Lakes National Park: One of the Best Alberta Elopement Locations
The park combines the rugged beauty of the Rockies with the serenity of its less-traveled paths. Whether you’re envisioning a peaceful lakeside ceremony or exchanging vows with dramatic mountain peaks in the background, Waterton provides endless opportunities for gorgeous backdrops. I’m proud to hold a business license for Waterton, which allows me to photograph weddings in this stunning location, ensuring everything is taken care of legally and professionally!
Waterton Lakes National Park is just one of the stunning places Alberta offers for an unforgettable elopement. If you’re dreaming of a ceremony surrounded by mountains, lakes, and untouched landscapes, this area has everything you need. For a broader look at more beautiful locations and tips on planning, check out our Alberta elopement guide.
Best Time of Year to Elope in Waterton
The best part about eloping in Waterton is that you can elope in any season. Waterton is open year-round, but it is best to check the Parks Canada site before your visit!
Personally, I think the best time to elope in Waterton is late spring and fall – why? Waterton is absolutely stunning during these months and the best part, the park is less frequented with visitors at this time. The summer months are beautiful as well, with the wildflowers and the warm weather, but be prepared to have more tourists around, and sunrise to be very early and sunset to be later in the evening if you are chasing the golden hour light.
You can certainly elope in Waterton in the winter months! There is something so magical about a winter wedding, but one thing to keep in mind is there are very few amenities in Waterton during November-April and the weather can be quite cold. As long as your prepared, winter can be extremely beautiful and very quiet for your Waterton elopement.
Elopement Locations in Waterton Lakes
Bear’s Hump: If you’re up for a bit of an adventure, Bear’s Hump offers panoramic views of the entire park. The short but steep hike to the top rewards you with stunning views of the lake, mountains, and village below — perfect for a dramatic and adventurous elopement ceremony.
Waterton Lakes Shoreline: If you’re dreaming of a lakeside elopement, Waterton Lakes’ shoreline conveniently has both sweeping vistas and a peaceful atmosphere. Whether you choose the main lake or opt for one of the smaller, more secluded ones, it’s an intimate choice that feels like your own personal escape!
Prince of Wales Hotel: Outside of the Prince of Wales hotel, overlooking the lakes is one of the most iconic Waterton views and I highly recommend stopping here for some shots. If you are planning on having your ceremony here, it would be best to plan around sunrise or sunset as this is a very popular spot especially during the peak summer months.
As an Alberta elopement photographer, I also have some beautiful, less-traveled locations for your Waterton elopement if you are looking for a more quiet, secluded celebration.
Example Elopement Timeline
For couples planning a full-day elopement in Waterton Lakes, here’s a sample timeline to help guide your planning:
6:00 AM: Meet at your accommodations or campsite for getting ready photos and relaxed, candid moments.
6:30 AM: Head to Bear’s Hump trailhead and start the short, steep hike to the top.
7:00 AM: Ceremony at the top of Bear’s Hump. The soft morning light and peaceful surroundings make it the perfect time to exchange vows.
7:30 AM: Couple portraits at the top of Bear’s Hump.
8:30 AM: Hike back to Waterton townsite.
9:00 AM: Iconic couples portraits at the viewpoint from Prince of Wales hotel.
9:45 AM: Post-ceremony champagne toast and celebration with a small picnic on the Waterton shoreline.
12:00 PM: Lunch break — enjoy a private, catered picnic or visit one of the local eateries in the village.
2:00 PM: Explore the Park, rent canoes or paddleboards. Enjoy a beautiful afternoon along the Waterton shoreline.
6:00 PM: Sunset portraits along the lakeshore or one of the beautiful wide-open fields, Waterton’s quiet beauty really comes alive during golden hour… the perfect end to your elopement day.
7:00 PM: Optional — an intimate dinner or campfire celebration with close friends or family to close out the day!
Important Details to Consider
When planning an elopement in Waterton, it’s really important to understand the park’s regulations regarding weddings. Permits are required for ceremonies, and certain locations may have restrictions on group size and setup. I’ll guide you through all of this to ensure everything runs smoothly and follows the park’s guidelines!
Also, Waterton’s weather can be unpredictable, especially in the mountains. Always have a backup plan in case of sudden rain or high winds, and be prepared with appropriate attire for the elements. Having a flexible timeline allows us to make the most of whatever nature throws our way!
Ready to Elope at Waterton Lakes National Park?
If you’re looking for an Alberta wedding Photographer and planning an elopement at Waterton, I would love to chat with you! I’m a photographer who’s committed to showing you how beautiful (and cool) you are! You can get in touch via my contact form and I’ll get back to you soon.
