7 Best Places to Elope in Alberta

Alberta is full of amazing spots perfect for saying your “I dos” in a way that feels authentic to you. Whether you’re dreaming of a ceremony on a mountaintop, in a lush green forest, or by a lake, there are many great places to elope in Alberta! As an Alberta elopement photographer, here are some of my favorite locations, which I highly recommend!

7 Best Places to Elope in Alberta

• Banff National Park
• Jasper National Park
• Kananaskis
• Waterton Lakes National Park
• Writing on Stone Provincial Park
• The Badlands of Drumheller
• The Crowsnest Pass

Banff National Park

Banff National Park is one of the most popular locations in Alberta for tourists and elopements, and it’s really no surprise. There are many locations within the park for you to choose from for your elopement – the turquoise waters of Lake Louise or Moraine Lake,  Sunshine Meadows or Tower of Babel, and many more.

While Banff is a great choice if you’d like to elope in Alberta, certain locations may require permits, especially if you plan to have your ceremony at a popular spot like Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, or Lake Minnewanka. You can check out the requirements here!

Here’s a Banff National Park elopement guide to help you plan your big day here!

Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is an awe-inspiring, adventurous location, perfect for couples looking to elope in Alberta amidst the wilderness. Although it’s less crowded than Banff National Park, it still gets plenty of visitors. The park’s vast landscapes, from the serene Maligne Lake to the rugged Athabasca Glacier, provide many intimate spots for your ceremony. 

If you’d like to elope in a public area, there isn’t a formal approval process, however, there are still some regulations. You can check everything about them here!

Kananaskis

Kananaskis Country, with its raw and untouched beauty, is a hidden gem for couples seeking a secluded, adventurous elopement in Alberta. The mountains and forests here are absolutely unreal! This area is generally less crowded than Alberta’s other national parks.

While some areas in Kananaskis may not require permits, it’s always good to consult the Alberta Parks website for any potential restrictions and to verify if your chosen location is free to use!

Waterton Lakes National Park

Located in the southern part of Alberta, Waterton Lakes National Park is another gorgeous elopement location. Surrounded by the Rocky Mountains and featuring prairies, lakes, waterfalls, and Red Rock Canyon, there are so many fantastic spots for your elopement! If you want to elope here, note that most park facilities are closed from October until April.

Like other national Parks, Waterton Lakes may require permits for specific areas, and some sites are not free to use for your wedding at all. Get the scoop on this area here!

Writing on Stone Provincial Park

With ancient petroglyphs and cool rock formations, Writing on Stone Provincial Park is a spot with a story and an absolutely unique place to elope in Alberta. This is a sacred place, so be sure to be extra respectful of the park’s rules.

To elope here, you need to fill out a Special Events and Wedding application! You can learn more here!

The Badlands of Drumheller

Want to elope in a place that feels like another planet? Drumheller’s Badlands are it. With its wild rock formations and dino history, it’s anything but ordinary. Here you’ll find the famous Horseshoe Canyon, Hoodoo Trail and nostalgic Ghost Towns – amazing settings for a unique and adventurous Alberta elopement.

Certain locations in Drumheller may require permits or have entry fees. This is something that I can help you figure out and acquire as your Alberta elopement photographer!

The Crowsnest Pass

If you’re looking for a spot that’s off the beaten path, Crowsnest Pass is where it’s at. It’s got amazing views and hikes and a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for an intimate elopement.

A lot of this area isn’t a provincial park, so you could avoid permits and fees depending on your chosen spot!

Ready to Elope in Alberta?

I hope this blog has helped you find the perfect place to elope in Alberta. However, if you’re still stuck on choosing the perfect location, that is exactly something I help all my eloping couples with! Just inquire with me here!

If you’re looking for more help in planning your Alberta elopement, check out this Alberta Elopement guide!

Alberta Elopement Photographer and Packages