The Ultimate Guide to Your Banff Elopement

If you’re dreaming of an elopement that’s as breathtakingly special as your love story, Banff is your go-to. Why? Imagine saying “I do” with the majestic Canadian Rockies as the backdrop!

But how do you plan your Banff elopement? Don’t worry! As a Banff elopement photographer and right-hand gal, I’ve put together a guide that will help you with the planning process!

Why Elope in Banff?

Banff isn’t just any location: it’s a beautiful place where adventure meets romance under the vast Alberta sky. With the beautiful nature and landscapes, every single view is going to be the perfect backdrop to your elopement day.

Whether you’re exchanging vows by a turquoise lake or atop a mountain, Banff turns your elopement into an epic love story.

How to Get to Banff?

Banff National Park is just a scenic 90-minute drive along the Trans-Canada Highway from Calgary. So I recommend flying into Calgary and then either renting a car or getting a shuttle bus from the Calgary airport. 

I definitely recommend renting a car, so you have more freedom to take the time with your travel, and you can make impromptu stops along the way on your elopement day.

All the Legal Bits of Your Banff Elopement

Marriage License

Eloping in Banff is rather straightforward. You will need to acquire a marriage license in Alberta, as well as any needed elopement permits for your chosen location.

You DO NOT need to be a resident here in Canada, so if you’re planning a destination elopement in Banff – you can still get married here! The good news is, there’s no wait time after receiving your license, which remains valid for three months. This flexibility means that from the moment you have your license in hand, you’re all set to say “I do” whenever you choose.

You can learn all about getting your Alberta marriage license here!

Banff Elopement Permits

For those planning to hold their ceremony at a designated outdoor or indoor venue within Banff, a permit is not necessary. However, if you want to elope with some of those beautiful views of Banff National Park in the backdrop, you’ll need to apply for a permit.

Your ceremony can take place at nearly any location you desire, provided your party (vendors included) consists of fewer than 20 individuals. For gatherings exceeding 20 people, you’ll need to select a venue for the ceremony to avoid the need for a permit. Note that permits are not required for the sessions alone, only if you are holding an official ceremony. 

The great thing about the permits is that once you acquire it, you can have the ceremony ANYWHERE in the park! And it’s also FREE to get! It’s important to understand that having a permit doesn’t guarantee exclusive access to a specific location within the park. Eloping in a National Park means embracing the communal nature of these spaces, so flexibility with your ceremony location is part of the adventure.

Here are more details about the process of getting the permit and all the most up-to-date rules for your Banff elopement!

If all these legal bits seem a bit confusing, if you choose me as your Banff elopement photographer, I will absolutely help you figure all of it out!

Best Season for Your Banff Elopement

Choosing the right season for your elopement in Banff National Park comes down to what you envision for your big day—from the activities you wish to include to the landscapes that you want in the backdrops.  Each season offers its unique charm and opportunities to make your elopement unforgettable, so let’s chat more about each of the seasons!

Spring: This time of year is enchanting for those who appreciate the early bloom of foliage and the reemergence of wildlife. While the lingering snow may limit extensive hiking plans, the backdrop of snow-capped mountains ensures your photos are nothing short of magical.

Summer: Summertime in Banff is a dream for the outdoor enthusiast couple. It’s the season where the park truly comes alive, offering the best conditions for camping, hiking, and exploring the peaks. The longer days provide plenty of opportunities for adventure and photography.

Fall: There’s something truly magical about fall in Banff. The crowds thin out, the leaves turn a stunning golden hue, and the first snows begin to adorn the mountaintops. This season is a photographer’s paradise and offers a serene backdrop for elopements. While hiking may become more limited as the season progresses, the cooler weather and spectacular scenery make it an ideal time for couples looking for both beauty and more privacy.

Winter: Winter transforms Banff into a snow-covered wonderland. The beauty of a winter elopement is undeniable, but it’s not for the faint of heart—the temperatures can plummet to -35°C, making outdoor activities challenging. For couples who dream of a winter wonderland elopement, preparing for the cold and planning something indoors is essential.

Where to Elope in Banff

There are many gorgeous spots for your Banff elopement, so here are some suggestions to help you narrow your choice! 

Peyto Lake

Imagine going on a slightly adventurous trek along the Icefields Parkway, leading you to the gorgeous Peyto Lake. It’s a journey of approximately 3.8 miles round trip, unveiling the stunning spectacle of a glacier-fed lake set against dramatic mountains. Perfect for the outdoorsy, adventurous couples who want a bit of a challenge to enjoy the views on their elopement day.

Lake Louise

The iconic Lake Louise, with its glacial waters reflecting a turquoise hue, is a sight to see. Surrounded by a majestic mountain range, it’s really an awesome location for your Banff elopement day! Whether you choose to explore nearby trails or end your day with a serene sunset, Lake Louise offers a picturesque setting for your vows.

Lake Minnewanka

Nestled close to the town of Banff, Lake Minnewanka is a beautiful choice if you’re bringing some of your closest loved ones with you to your elopement day. It’s rather easy to access with plenty of options to do some hiking and camping! 

Sunshine Meadows

Just a short drive from Banff, the Sunshine Meadows are accessible via gondola, transporting you to stunning alpine meadows. Visit from mid-July to mid-August to witness the meadows adorned with vibrant wildflowers! Even if you miss the wildflower window, it’s still an absolutely gorgeous place for your Banff elopement!

Tower of Babel

Perfect for the adventurous lovers, this short but challenging climb up to the Tower of Babel rewards with unique views of Moraine Lake and the Valley of Ten Peaks. 

Sunset Pass

A beautiful Banff hidden gem, Sunset Pass delivers a wild, quintessentially Canadian wilderness feel, with stunning views of the North Saskatchewan River—ideal for a secluded elopement.

Bow Glacier Falls

Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of Bow Glacier Falls within Banff National Park. It’s a nice hike that leads to a beautiful waterfall! This is what dreams are made of, am I right?

If you’re looking for something more special and unique to you both, I provide specific recommendations to my couples! Interested? Just inquire here!

What to Pack for Your Banff Elopement

As you may already expect, packing for an elopement is going to be different than preparing for a more traditional wedding day. Depending on where you are eloping, what season and what activities you’d like to include, the packing list will look much different. (Again, these are some things I help my couples with depending on their unique Banff elopement day!) However, these are some suggestions:

Hiking Boots: Let’s be real, your fancy shoes aren’t cut out for the trails of Banff. Slip into a pair of reliable hiking boots to navigate the terrain comfortably. Opt for boots that are sturdy and waterproof to tackle any path you choose. Also, I recommend choosing boots you’ve already broken in! Or at least, make sure to break in any new pairs!

Extra Layers: The weather in Banff can be very unpredictable, so I always recommend arming yourself with extra jackets/sweaters and even spare clothes.

Water: Bring along a water bottle or two, especially if your day involves physical activities. Toss in a portable water filter, and you’re all set to refill from the pure mountain streams.

Sun Protection: Even at cooler temperatures, the sun in Banff can be intense, especially at higher altitudes. Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourselves from those UV rays.

Snacks: You’ll definitely want to refuel during your elopement day. Pack some energy-boosting snacks like nuts, energy bars, or even a small picnic to enjoy together. These little moments of sharing a meal in the heart of nature will add to the magic of your day.

A First Aid Kit: It’s always better to be prepared, so include a small first-aid kit in your pack. A few plasters, antiseptic wipes, and some pain relief can go a long way if minor scrapes or headaches occur.

Fun Elopement Activities

Many eloping couples choose to include fun and meaningful activities and go adventuring to celebrate their love on their big day. Here are some ideas for your Banff adventure elopement!

• Hike through the trails
• Go off-roading
• Take a helicopter ride
• Go camping if the weather allows
• Enjoy a long weekend at an intimate lodge
• Go boating, kayaking, or canoeing
• Enjoy a picnic of all your fave foods

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Banff Elopement Packages