Why Elope in the Kootenays, BC?
The East Kootenays in British Columbia might just be the dreamy backdrop you’ve been looking for to say “I do.” We will keep it easy-peasy as we explore why the East Kootenays is THE place to elope, what towns you can hit up, the best times to exchange vows, and some outdoor activities to make your elopement extra special.
- Natural Beauty: Picture this – towering mountains, peaceful lakes, and endless forests. The Kootenays is like Mother Nature’s own wedding venue. It’s not just about getting married, it’s about sharing your vows surrounded by the quiet beauty of untouched landscapes.
- Intimate Vibes: In the East Kootenays, it’s just you, your partner, and nature’s grandeur. No big crowds, no hustle. It’s an intimate connection with your love and the great outdoors. Let nature be your witness as you start this beautiful chapter.
- Less Expensive: Eloping in the Kootenays can be more budget friendly than more touristy areas like Banff or Lake Louise. You can spend more of your budget on experiences and things that matter most to you.
- Outdoor Activities: If you’d like to include an activity or two on your elopement day, the Kootenays has no shortage of things to do outside for those that love to adventure.
Where to Elope in the Kootenays?
There are many stunning locations to elope in the Kootenays. The popular mountain towns include Fernie, Kimberley, Invermere and Golden and there are a ton of beautiful locations for your elopement ceremony in all of these places and in the surrounding areas. Your Kootenay, BC elopement photographer can help you find the perfect location and maybe even a hidden gem, or two!
Popular Places to Elope in the Kootenays
- Fernie – If you’re looking for a mountain town vibe with stunning views and endless outdoor activities right in town, Fernie might be where you want to elope! Check out my guide for eloping in Fernie here. The sweetest downtown, with coffee shops and restaurants, and a beautiful spa in a restored 1908 schoolhouse to pamper yourself before your wedding day. History meets adventure in this beautiful town!
- Golden – Another ski town in the East Kootenays, located close by to Yoho and Banff National Parks. You also don’t have to go to far to find a secluded, ceremony location. If you’re looking for an adventurous elopement, there are tons of hiking trails and wilderness close by, or check out Kicking Horse Mountain Resort!
- Invermere – Why an Invermere elopement? There are too many reasons. From the Canadian Rockies to Windermere Lake and the close by Columbia Lake, to natural hot springs and mountain resorts. There is no shortage of beautiful spots for your elopement and activities to make your day a full experience.
- Kimberley – Kimberley is a quiet, ski town located at the end of the road, nestled between the Purcell and Rocky Mountain ranges. Kimberley is a four-season destination, like most East Kootenay ski towns. The town-center or better known as the Platzl, is a walking-only main street with shops and restaurants. Your Kimberley elopement will be one to remember!
- Yoho National Park – Yoho National Park is a stunning place for an elopement. There will be less crowds than Banff or Lake Louise, and a picturesque backdrop, everywhere you look. Emerald Lake Lodge is a popular elopement destination or the grand Takakkaw Falls.
- Kootenay National Park – KNP is a rugged, national park located close by to Radium and Invermere in the East Kootenays. From short walks to long hikes, this is your place for an adventure elopement.
When to Elope in the Kootenays
- Winter (December – March): If you love the idea of a snowy wonderland, winter is your time. Cozy up for a winter elopement, with snow-covered landscapes creating a magical backdrop. Just keep in mind that certain locations may be inaccessible during the winter months, especially in the mountains.
- Spring (April – June): Spring brings the blooms! Wildflowers, budding trees – it’s nature’s way of celebrating a new chapter. The mountains will still be snow covered usually until late June/early July, so a forest or beach-side elopement might be the way to go!
- Summer (June- August): Longer days mean more sunshine for your summer elopement. Whether lakeside, mountainside, or somewhere in between, summer offers a canvas of greenery and warmth. Summer is a popular time for elopements and recreation, so more well-known locations may be busier and expect to have other people around. During the summer, opt for a sunrise elopement to avoid the crowds, and the heat!
- Fall (September – November): Fall paints the East Kootenays in warm hues. Crisp air, changing leaves – it’s a cozy and romantic time for an elopement, surrounded by nature’s golden palette. This is my favourite time of year, because you can still access many places with quieter crowds, and the fall colours adds another element to your elopement day.
Elopement Activity Ideas in the Kootenays
-Hiking
-Mountain biking
-Skiing
-Nordic skiing/snowshoeing
-Offroading
-Camping
-Paddleboarding
-Canoeing
Cozy Elopement Accommodations in the Kootenays
Kootenay Elopement Photography Packages
Hi, I’m Sam!! I’m an elopement and intimate wedding photographer based in Fernie, British Columbia and travelling anywhere for elopements! You can learn more about me here! Of course I’m going to say this, but having an elopement photographer for your elopement is one of the most important vendors! When you work with me you get so much more than just a photographer, of course I will provide you with stunning images that you get to relive for years to come, but I will also help you plan your dream Kootenay elopement so that you can sit back and FULLY enjoy your elopement experience, stress-free!
All elopement packages include the following:
- 4 hours to multi-day coverage
- Personalized location idea list
- Vendor recommendations
- Unlimited planning help & support
- An exclusive Elopement & Intimate Wedding Planning Guide
- A custom timeline for your perfect elopement day
- High resolution images with printing rights
- Online gallery to view, download, print, and share your images
- Polaroid images for a touch of nostalgia
Get in touch to book your Kootenay Elopement here!
