Banff Elopement Photographers
Lexi & Nate
Adventurous Backpacking Elopement in the Canadian Rockies
We often hear from adventurous couples who want to do something different for their wedding day. Lexi and Nate were exactly that. In their first message to us, they shared their love for backpacking and mountain biking and their dream of an elopement that matched their passion for adventure and epic landscapes. When it came to choosing a place that captured everything they were looking for, the Canadian Rockies were at the top of their list.
Choosing the Perfect Location for a Backpacking Elopement in the Mountains
There is no shortage of epic trails in this magical area and we got to work sharing our favourite overnight and multi-day backpacking routes in and around Banff, Canmore and Kananaskis. Lexi and Nate wanted to find a remote ridgeline with sweeping views but also wanted to be legally married on the trip. Because of this, we ended up planning a two-night camping trip that led us to a more accessible location first for their legal ceremony, then deeper into the mountains to find the epic views they were hoping for.
Tips on Planning a Backpacking Elopement
Planning a backpacking elopement is a totally different exercise to a more traditional wedding day. We love it because it’s more focused on the couple and what they want to experience together rather than material items on a checklist. Lexi and Nate included some special moments in their day to make it special including:
- Handwritten letters from their loved ones. As their loved ones couldn’t travel with them on this special day, they asked them to write letters for them to read on the trail. This was such a special moment for them both to feel connected to the people they care about the most of their day.
- Picking out special outfits. Even though they eloped, they still went through the traditions of finding a dress and suit to make the day special.
- Sharing private vows. They had their ceremony officiated by Cole at sunset on the first night but decided to save their private vows for a special moment on the ridge at sunrise the following day.
- Including moments to be present. Traditional wedding days often feel rushed and packed full of events. On a backpacking trip, there are so many moments of pause to simply be in nature and reflect on the journey and the meaning of it all. One of our favourite moments was after setting up our tents in the meadow. We walked up to the top of the hill overlooking the view and watched the Marmots play and sunset light up the sky while we ate a well-deserved camp meal.
To Those Seeking Adventure on Their Wedding Day
We hope this has provided a little inspiration to those wanting to celebrate in a way that is centred in their values. While we know a backpacking elopement for everyone, there are so many ways you can include a little bit of adventure into any wedding day. Whether it’s moments carved out to go on a little nature walk together or to simply gaze at the stars after the day is all over.
Vendors:
Photographers: Willow and Wolf
Videography: Sam Lobb Films
Officiant: Married by Cole
