How to Elope in Banff National Park

Updated for 2026

If you’re wondering how to elope in Banff National Park, this guide will walk you through what actually matters, from permits and timing to creating an experience that feels intentional.

If you’re reading this, you have probably decided that a big wedding isn’t for you. Perhaps you’d like the idea of doing something more intimate and personal, something that’s truly you. Even though elopements are getting more popular, it is still not considered a traditional way of getting married, so you may find there are fewer resources out there to help you plan this special day. As Banff elopement photographers, we have experienced a wide range of unique and incredible ways to celebrate love. You can check out some of these stories in our blog to get inspired. 

We thought we would share some of our knowledge for couples out there considering a more adventurous route. Keep reading below for our 5 tips that will help you begin planning your dream day in the mountains!

1 – Plan Your Elopement Around What You Love to Do Together

When you make the decision to elope, you are able to add a lot of freedom to your day. You aren’t locked into any rigid timelines based around your ceremony and reception venue, and you are free to plan a day incorporating what you want to experience together. 

The first question we get from our couples is: where should we elope? This is such a personal question, as every couple is so unique. There is so much to see and do in and around Banff National Park! Do you want to go for a hike, see the sunrise, have a picnic, go camping, hire a canoe, jump in a helicopter and find a crazy mountain top location to say your vows? Or do you simply drive to a secluded location, say I do, and then go out for pizza! It’s important to realize that anything is possible, but the day should reflect what you both love doing together! Planning an adventure elopement should be an exciting experience. You are planning a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to celebrate your love!

Want more information about finding the perfect location? Check out our blog:  How to Choose the Best Elopement Location in the Canadian Rocky Mountains

2 – When is the Best Time of Year to Elope in Banff

One of the first things to consider is what time of year do you want to get married? Although the Canadian Rocky Mountains are incredible during every season, the scenery changes so much depending on what time of year you visit. 

Season, light, weather, accessibility, and crowd levels all shape what your day will feel like. Summer offers alpine lakes and long evenings but comes with peak tourism. Shoulder seasons can be quieter but more unpredictable. Winter elopements are incredibly intimate and dramatic, but require flexibility and preparation.

It’s important to think about what you would like to experience and see when choosing what time of year to elope. Do you want to see snow covering the mountain peaks or do you want to camp under the stars? There is so much to offer in each season!

If you want to know a little more about what each season has to offer head over to our blog: Best Time of Year to Get Married in Banff National Park.

3 – How to Structure Your Elopement Timeline

When planning your elopement day we always consider two main things: your experience together and getting the most epic photos! 

As portrait and landscape photographers, we are sunrise and sunset chasers. The ideal time to take photos in the mountains is when the sun is low and soft. This is usually the first few hours of light and the last few of the day. You may have heard of the term ‘golden hour.’ This is the hour when the sun is rising or setting and it casts a warm glow over the landscape. No matter where you choose to elope, we will always suggest trying to plan some portraits around sunrise or sunset. This may involve getting ready at a crazy time in the morning or having to pack a picnic instead of making it back for dinner, but as long as you are prepared it will make for an even better overall experience. 

There are so many options when choosing how to plan your day. This largely depends on what you value most and what you want to experience together on the day. We would suggest giving lots of time to relax and really soak it all in together. The last thing you want to feel on the day is rushed. As elopement photographers, we spend a lot of time with each couple helping them plan the perfect day. 

If you want to know a little more about how to structure your day, head over to our blog: How to Make an Elopement Timeline.

4 – Do You Need a Permit to Elope in Banff National Park?

One of the most common questions couples ask is whether a permit is required to elope in Banff National Park. The answer depends on how and where you plan to get married.

Banff is a protected national park, which means ceremonies are subject to Parks Canada regulations. You can have a ceremony anywhere within Banff National Park for free with under 20 guests by completing a registration form found on the Canada Parks website here. If you are planning a wedding with more than 20 guests in the national park you will have to rent a private venue space. There are also areas outside of the national park, including provincial parks and crown land, where other permitting rules apply. 

To read more about permits you can find more information on our blog here.

5 – Be Prepared for a Mountain Adventure!

No matter where or what time of year you get married, it’s important to be prepared. The weather in the Rockies is known to be unpredictable and can change quickly. We always stay on top of the local forecasts and radars on the day to make sure we know what’s coming, but it’s important to pack for any weather. We love finding amazing locations to avoid crowds, which often involve going a little further down the trail. We always suggest bringing some hiking boots and layers to keep you warm in the elements… and lots of snacks! 

If you want to know a little more about what to pack for your adventure elopement, check out our blog: Adventure Elopement Checklist.

We hope this inspires you to start planning your own adventure! Remember why you are doing this, to experience something incredible together! Once you know that an adventure elopement is for you, send us an email, and we can start planning something unique together!