A Comprehensive Winter Elopement Guide to Glacier National Park

Located in Northwest Montana, Glacier National Park is sure to be your perfect winter destination for a snowy elopement day. There are lots of lodging options, a multitude of winter ways to recreate, and some of the most beautiful sights. In this blog post, I'll highlight many of these perks below, so read through the blog to learn more.

According to the National Park Service, the months with the highest average snowfall are December (37.5 inches) and January (39.6 inches). February and March see a little less snow, but it's still a good amount. I usually prefer the snow (how it looks) in December and January as it's the most fluffy and white during that time. As we enter the frigid months of February and March, the snow becomes more compact, and icey, it also has a dirtier and gray appearance. Every few years, if we have a cold enough winter, Lake McDonald will freeze over. On these years it's fun to capture photos on the ice, when its thick enough for foot traffic.

If you're looking for a winter wonderland, look no further, as Glacier is sure to please. Keep reading to learn more about planning your Glacier National Parl elopement during the winter.

If you've ever visited Glacier National Park between the months of November and April, you'd know that much of the park is inaccessible during the winter time. Glacier gets a significant amount of snow each winter so the maintenance to keep certain roads open would be a costly expense for the park. This means that only specific locations are accessible in the winter months to have your ceremony in Glacier National Park.

In order to have a ceremony in Glacier National Park, all couples must apply for a special use permit (SUP) to receive an approved ceremony location for their wedding/elopement ceremony. This permit costs $125 and requires couples to apply for it a minimum of 30 days out, but I recommend submitting for this permit up to a year or more in advance. This approved ceremony permit grants the couple a 2-hour window of time to have a ceremony, take family portraits, and any other ceremony festivities they want to occur. The ceremony location doesn't give you exclusive access, meaning the general public can still be around and witness the ceremony.

Couples can scope out the different ceremony locations on the National Park Service Wedding site, and see the guest limits and other requirements involved with specific locations. The application to apply and detailed instructions for applying are also listed there. Below are the official ceremony sites that are open and available year-round in the park, including the winter months. You may need snow shoes to access some locations if you come during the peak of the winter season, or if it's a high snow level year.

• Apgar Amphitheater
• Apgar Picnic Area Shoreline
• 7-mile Pull Out (Sandy Point)
• 10-mile Pull Out (Jackson Bay)
• Lake McDonald Lodge Beach
• Ryan Beach
• Walton Picnic Area (located on Hwy 2, near Essex)
• St. Mary Amphitheater
• Red Eagle Trailhead
• 1913 Ranger Station

From the list above, my two favorite winter ceremony sites that I recommend to couples are 7-mile Pull Out (ceremony in the photos of this blog post) and Apgar Picnic Area Shoreline. These locations are both stunning, have easy access, and have ample parking for an elopement ceremony.

Essential Gear and Clothing For a Winter Elopement

Here's a comprehensive list of essential gear and clothing for a winter elopement in Glacier National Park, Montana:

Essential Gear:

1. Insulated Waterproof Boots: Ensure they are comfortable for walking in snow and provide good insulation.

2. Gaiters: To keep snow out of your boots and pants.

3. Trekking Poles: Helpful for stability on icy or snowy terrain.

4. Hand and Toe Warmers: Provide extra warmth in cold conditions.

5. Headlamp or Flashlight: Days are shorter in winter, and it gets dark early.

6. Map and Compass (and/or GPS): If you plan to do any off-trail hiking or exploring outside of cell service, familiarize yourself with navigation tools, as snow can obscure trails.

7. First Aid Kit: Include items like blister treatment, adhesive bandages, and any personal medications.

Clothing:

1. Base Layers: Moisture-wicking tops and bottoms to keep you dry and warm. Smart Wool is a good quality brand with options for both partners.

2. Insulating Layers: Fleece jackets or down-filled jackets to trap heat.

3. Waterproof Outer Layer: Jacket and pants to protect against snow, wind, and moisture.

4. Warm Hat and Gloves: Essential for retaining heat, consider bringing spare pairs.

5. Neck Gaiter or Scarf: Provides additional warmth and can protect your face in harsh conditions.

6. Socks: Wool or synthetic socks that wick moisture and provide insulation. I highly recommend the brand, Darn Tough!

7. Spare Clothing: Pack extra layers in case you get wet or need to change.

Special Note:

Glacier National Park in winter can be extremely cold and snowy, so it's crucial to dress in layers, stay dry, and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Checking weather forecasts and trail conditions beforehand is also recommended. With the right gear and preparation, your winter elopement can be a memorable and enjoyable experience in this breathtaking setting!

Unique Experiences and Activities For a Winter Elopement in Glacier National Park

Planning your elopement during the winter might have you feeling like you're limited in options for activities, but I am happy to share that there are several ways to explore and recreate in and around Glacier National Park that you can incorporate into your elopement day.

1. Sleigh Rides at Clydesdale Outpost in Whitefish Montana. These sleigh rides take place on a custom sleigh shipped over from Poland and can fit up to four adults on them. You'll be pulled in the sleigh by Clydesdales through a snowy route, sure to make you feel as if you're in a snow globe. The Clydesdale Outpost is also on our list for recommended winter stays during your trip as well!
2. Cross Country Skiing and Snowshoeing at DogCreek Lodge in Olney Montana. DogCreek Lodge offers lodging, dining, and recreation, between the experience and views, you'll be swept off your feet. DogCreek offers rentals on sight, so just plan to arrive ready to have fun! Grab a cocktail afterward at the bar or grab some pizza at the restaurant.
3. Ice Fishing on Whitefish Lake. Available during the months of December through February (dependent on ice conditions), you'll depart from the Whitefish Lake Lodge dock and  be guided for your ice fishing activity. The company provides drinks, hot soup, and snacks and even has heated ice houses (sounds cozy)! You'll need to get your Montana Fishing license for this activity.
4. Winter Elopement Picnic and Fire (at an established fire ring) in Glacier National Park. Let the amazing Kopper Kitchen create an elopement picnic for your special day, complete with everything needed to have a delicious spread in front of you. Be sure to order at least 14 days in advance to ensure they can get you on their calendar! As your local photographer, I am happy to bring along some firewood so you can have a campfire at an established fire ring in the park.
5. Stargazing the winter night, maybe seeing the northern lights! On a clear night, you can see the night sky and glistening stars from most places in northwestern Montana. I wrote a helpful blog about the Northern Lights in Glacier National Park that might help you see them and take some pictures, even with your phone!

With this list above (and so many more activities out there too), planning something exciting to do on or around your elopement day will be like a mini honeymoon while you're visiting the area. If you're a booked client of mine, don't hesitate to reach out to hear more ideas to incorporate into your elopement.

Hiring a Professional Winter Elopement Photographer in Glacier National Park

Planning a winter elopement in Glacier National Park is an extraordinary way to celebrate your love, and having a local photographer like me ensures your experience is as seamless as it is stunning. With years of experience working in the park, I know the ins and outs of its trails, permits, and unpredictable winter conditions. From finding the perfect snowy backdrop to recommending the right gear for the season, I bring invaluable knowledge and expertise to every step of the process. My deep connection to the area allows me to help you craft a day that's not only breathtakingly beautiful but also stress-free and tailored to your vision. By choosing a local photographer, you're not just hiring someone to capture your moments — you're gaining an expert to help make your Glacier winter elopement unforgettable.

Let's get to planning that snowy elopement day, reach out through the contact form on my website and I'll get back to you via email to hear more about the vision for your day as well as connect through a video call to ensure we're a good fit! Winter Elopements in Glacier are some of my favorite, magical elopements to capture!

Accommodation Options and Logistics For a Winter Elopement

in Glacier National Park

One of the most common questions I receive from my couples is, "Where should we stay when we come for our visit?" I always encourage couples to try and think outside the box, rather than always choosing a hotel or lodge. Montana rental property owners have upped their game in creating unique stays for couples and families to stay at when visiting Northwest Montana. I'll highlight a few of my favorites below with links so you can check them out yourself!

1. Stay Treetops. Located just outside Glacier National Park, you can stay in a treehouse cabin, bringing you into a nature-filled experience. Bringing the perfect combination of rustic charm and modern finishes, this romantic stay will have you pining to extend your trip. They even have outdoor cedar hot tubs, *swoons*.
2. Glacier Retreats -Bowman on Airbnb. Located in Columbia Falls, MT (just 20 minutes outside Glacier National Park), this tiny home is sure to impress. With a private hot tub, stunning views, and relaxing vibes, this retreat is the perfect location to stay for your Montana elopement trip.
3. Clydesdale Outpost. Located just north of Whitefish on Hwy 93, these unique cabins offer so much more than lodging. With Clydesdales on-site and a multitude of activities to keep you busy during your stay, this retreat is not to be overlooked!

Logistics for your winter elopement

When planning out your NW Montana winter elopement, you'll want to consider a few things when planning out your trip and elopement. Check out this list below to see if you've already been planning some of these things or if you need to take note before diving into planning.

• Driving and Road Conditions: If you're not familiar with winter driving, it's important to brush up on some knowledge that will help you when you get here. Another thing to consider is renting a 4WD vehicle or making sure your rental has all-season or snow tires. You could also find an SUV with AWD. You can find some tips for winter driving here from the National Highway Travel Safety Administration.
• Lighting and Time of Day: At the peak of winter solstice (our shortest day of the year) on December 21st, you can expect about 8 hours of daylight. The sun rises around 8:30 am and sets around 4:45 pm. This means we'll be utilizing the most daylight that we can for your elopement day. Golden hour falls much earlier than in summer months, typically starting around 3:45 pm.
• Limited Services and Establishments Open: Glacier National Park is heavily visited in the Summer months, therefore, the park services don't keep services and visitor centers open year-round. The Going-to-the-sun road also closes for the season in late October. You'll find that many restaurants are closed during the winter season, especially in the small towns surrounding the west entrance of Glacier National Park, there just isn't enough traffic in the winter months to keep doors open for the slow season. These aren't reasons to not visit, but more so be prepared for. Plan to pack food with you (and pack it out) and bring along ample water for drinking.
• Unforeseen Bad Weather: Bad weather and winter in Montana go hand in hand. Each winter we get crazy blizzards, arctic cold ice storms, and periods of heavy snowfall. It's important to expect and prepare for these types of situations when traveling to the area.
• Dress for the Cold: This is one thing I cannot stress enough, bring layers! You can always shed layers when you're warm, but if you're cold and you don't have additional layers to throw on, that's when you get into trouble. Thermals, waterproof layers, and accessories like hats, gloves, and scarves are so important to travel with.

Hopefully, you find these lodging recommendations and winter travel tips handy when it comes to planning out your Glacier National Park winter elopement.

See What a Winter Elopement in Glacier National Park Looks Like

Courtney and Daniel’s winter elopement in Glacier National Park was nothing short of magical. In March 2023, the couple began their day at the cozy Whitefish Lake Lodge, where they shared an intimate first look surrounded by its rustic charm. From there, they ventured into Glacier National Park for their ceremony, joined by their closest family members. After exchanging heartfelt vows, the couple toasted with their loved ones before capturing family portraits along the serene shores of Lake McDonald. As the celebration continued, Courtney and Daniel stayed behind for romantic portraits in the park, taking full advantage of the breaks of sunshine and lifted clouds that revealed the majestic mountain peaks of West Glacier. The day concluded with a warm and joyous dinner back at Whitefish Lake Lodge, where the couple shared a meal with family and friends, making it a truly unforgettable experience. See the photos below to capture a glance at their special day!

Vendors

The above vendors made this elopement day featured in this blog come together seamlessly!

Photography: Jennifer Vernarsky Photography

Officiant: Elisheba Bagrow at Lichen & Pines Letterpress

Florals: Rose Mountain Floral

Cake: Mountain Mama's Cupcakery

HMUA: Jocelyn at Astute Salon

Lodging: Whitefish Lake Lodge

Dress: Anthropologie Weddings

Elopement Vendor Collective: Elope Montana