Glacier National Park wedding – The ultimate guide

What Is a Glacier National Park Wedding?

When two people get married inside Glacier National Park. You can have guests or not, you can go hiking, or not, you can have a reception, or not. It’s totally up to you! The most important thing to remember about a Glacier National Park wedding is to make it your own and respect the beautiful land.

Where Is Glacier National Park?

Glacier National Park is located in northern Montana, bordering Canada. Known as the “Crown of the Continent,” it offers some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the United States. Its proximity to the Canadian Rockies makes it a prime destination for nature enthusiasts and couples looking for an awe-inspiring wedding backdrop. The nearest city is Kalispell, Montana about 45 minutes to 1 hour away.

Where to Fly Into

The closest airport to Glacier is Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) in Kalispell, Montana. From there, you’re just a short drive away from park entrances. Other nearby airports include Missoula International Airport (MSO), about 2.5 hours away, and Spokane International Airport (GEG), approximately 5 hours away. Renting a car is highly recommended, as public transportation options are limited. Lots of people choose to fly into another airport and drive in since Glacier International is a small airport tickets get sold quickly, are pricey. Local vehicle rentals can also be difficult to book for summer months.

How Big Is It?

Glacier National Park spans over 1 million acres, with more than 700 miles of hiking trails, 26 glaciers, and countless waterfalls. In other words, it’s massive—so plan accordingly! The park is divided into five distinct regions, each with its unique charm and accessibility levels. Most people spend at least a week in the park and many say that isn’t enough time.

Here is a map to give you an idea of the scale!

Can You Get Married in Glacier National Park?

Yes, you absolutely can! Glacier National Park offers a variety of ceremony locations, but you’ll need to follow specific rules and obtain permits. The park’s regulations are designed to preserve its natural beauty while accommodating your special day.

Why have a Glacier National Park wedding?

Pros:

• Unforgettable Scenery: The dramatic landscapes will make your photos—and memories—absolutely epic. It’s called the Alps of America for the reason!
• Adventure Factor: Perfect for couples who love the outdoors. with activities from kayaking to horseback riding there is a bit of something for everyone.
• Unique Experience: There’s no better backdrop for your big day than nature’s finest masterpiece. With how remote we are it is truly a unique place to visit and lots of unique experiences i will share later on to enjoy.
• Intimacy: The park’s remote locations allow for quiet, personal ceremonies. especially during the off season. Due to how large the park is though you can find hidden beauties year round! Also Glacier is specifically designed for the curious. There are very few markers to tell you where things are so it’s important to hire locals that understand the area well and give yourself plenty of time to explore.

Cons:

• Logistical Challenges: Remote locations mean extra planning. As well as higher expenses for travel and lodging.
• Weather Unpredictability: Montana’s weather can be fickle—prepare for anything. by fickle i mean our weatherman has no idea what is happening i’m pretty sure they live in florida. We are know as one of the few places that has gotten snow every day of the year. Most of my weddings in Glacier National Park experience a spectrum of weather as we explore different elevations. As Montanas we pride ourselves in being able to show up and enjoy ourselves no matter what the weather does.
• Permits and Rules: You’ll need to follow strict park guidelines to minimize your impact. That includes what you can bring, how you should act, how many people can come, etc. I will dig more into that later.

Glacier National Park wedding Permits and Fees

Special Use Permit

A special use permit is required for any wedding in Glacier. It’s currently $125, but check the National Park Service website for updates. This permit ensures your ceremony does not interfere with the park’s natural environment or visitor experience. It also helps the park keep track of when and where people are getting married. They only give a limited number a day so once you decide you want Glacier reach out ASAP to get the permit secured.

Marriage License

You’ll need a Montana marriage license, which can be filled out 100% online here. The cost is approximately $53, and there is no waiting period. You will need to show up in person on a weekday with your IDs to pick up the permit at the County Clerks office in Kalispell.

Vehicle Reservation System (2025)

Vehicle reservation policies change every year and I will update this section accordingly. They are required to access North Fork and West glacier (AFTER Apgar village) from June 13th – September 28th 7AM – 3PM. Your special use permit might affect weather or not you need a vehicle reservation so work with your photographer/planner to decide if you will need one.

As a general rule of thumb I plan my sessions around the vehicle reservations so we don’t need to get one. This is also usually when the best lighting is and least crowds. I try to avoid Going to the Sun Road in the middle of the day. You can find the most up to date changes at GNP’s website.

Officiant or Self-Solemnize?

Montana allows couples to self-solemnize, meaning you don’t need an officiant—just the two of you and two witnesses. Alternatively, you can hire a local officiant familiar with outdoor ceremonies. I am ordained and can sign as an officiant for couples who just want to exchange vows. If you want a Ceremony my husband officiates for my clients at a very good price.

Fun Fact: Pets are allowed to sign as witnesses if you have an officiant!

When Should I have a Glacier National Park wedding?

Each season in Glacier National Park offers its unique charm and challenges. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Winter Wedding Ideas (November – March)

Pros:

• Breathtaking snow-covered landscapes.
• Absolute solitude—fewer visitors.
• Opportunities for cozy, intimate ceremonies.

Cons:

• Limited accessibility (many roads and trails are closed).
• Extremely cold temperatures.

Activities:

• Snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.
• Photos by frozen waterfalls and icy lakes.
• Horse drawn sleigh ride, ice skating, and winter events like skijorring.
• Romantic evenings by a firepit drinking Hot Chocolate

Here are some winter weddings to inspire you

Spring Wedding Ideas (April – June)

Pros:

• Beautiful wildflowers start blooming.
• Fewer tourists compared to summer.

Cons:

• Trails can be muddy, and some areas remain snow-covered.
• Weather is unpredictable—rain and snow are both possible.

Activities:

• Wildlife spotting (bears and other animals emerge from hibernation).
• Small hikes on lower-elevation trails.
• Northern Lights and Milky ways
• Campfires

Spring wedding inspiration

Summer Wedding Ideas (July – August)

Pros:

• Full accessibility of the park.
• Warm and pleasant weather.
• Long daylight hours. Sunrise 4 AM Sunset 10 PM

Cons:

• Crowds, especially in popular areas.
• Permits and accommodations may book quickly.

Activities:

• Hiking to iconic locations like Hidden Lake or Grinnel Glacier.
• Scenic drives along Going-to-the-Sun Road.
• Boating or kayaking on glacial lakes.
• Horseback Trailriding, Hot Air Balloon rides, mini golf.

Summer wedding inspiration

Fall Wedding Ideas (September – October)

Pros:

• Stunning fall foliage, especially golden larches.
• Cooler, comfortable temperatures.
• Fewer crowds.

Cons:

• Shorter days.
• Early snowstorms may occur.

Activities:

• Photography sessions amidst colorful landscapes.
• Quiet walks along forest trails.
• Stargazing under crisp, clear skies.
• Northern Lights and Milky Way

Fall wedding inspiration

Ceremony Sites for a Glacier National Park Wedding

North Fork

Pros:

• Remote and serene, ideal for intimate elopements.
• Stunning views of the Livingston Range.
• Near the iconic town of Polebridge

Cons:

• Limited amenities nearby.
• Access requires dirt road travel.

Location	Max Participants	Accessibility	Additional Info
Juniper River Access	12	May – October	Accessible by River and Road
Bowman Lake	15 peak season & 24 non-peak	May – October	If closed due to snow you can hike/ski 6+ miles each way
Kintla Lake	8	May – October	If closed due to snow you can hike/ski 14+ miles each way

West Glacier

Pros:

• Convenient and stunning, with plenty of amenities nearby.
• Easy access to Going-to-the-Sun Road.
• Available year round

Cons:

• Can be busy during peak season.
• Not great for sunsets
• Lower elevation so less wildflowers and further from the mountains

Location	Participants	Accessibility	Additional Info
Big Bend	10	July-September	May only use the area by parking lot for ceremonies
Apgar Ampitheater	250	Year round	Pets Allowed, Wheelchair accessible
Apgar Picnic Area Shoreline	15 peak 20 non-peak	Year round	Pets Allowed, Wheelchair accessible
Fish Creek Ampitheater	200	May-September	Wheelchair accesible
Fish Creek Picnic Area	20 peak 25 non-peak	April-September	Pets Allowed
Avalanche Ampitheater	100	May-October	Wheelchair accessible
Avalanche Picnic area Shoreline	15 peak 20 non-peak	May-October	Pets Allowed
7 Mile pullout (Sandy Point)	15 peak 20 non-peak	Year round	Limited parking, unmarked location
10 mile pullout (Jackson Bay)	15 peak 20 non-peak	Year round	unmarked location, slightly more parking than 7 mile
Sprague Creek Picnic Area	15 peak 20 non-peak	Year Round	Pets allowed, picnic gate closes at 9 pm
Lake McDonald Lodge Beach	15 Peak 30 non-peak	year round	Pets allowed
Ryan Beach	15 peak 20 non-peak	Year Round	small trail from parking spot, unmarked limited parking

Two Medicine

Pros:

• Known for its dramatic mountain backdrop and tranquil lake.
• Less crowded than other areas.
• Lots of campsites and closests east glacier location to Kalispell

Cons:

• Limited lodging options nearby.
• VERY limited amenities.
• Pray Lake & Two Medicine Lake will be closed starting september 2025 for construction

Location	Participants	Accessibility	Additional Info
Running Eagle Falls	15	May-October	Wheelchair accessible, Limited Parking
Pray Lake Shoreline	30	May-October	No Roadside parking
Two Medicine Ampitheater	50 peak 75 non-peak	May-October	Pets Allowed, Wheelchair Accessible
Two Medicine Picnic area Shoreline	15 peak 20 non-peak	May-October	Pets Allowed
Walton Picnic Area	15	Year Round	Must stay by picnic tables

Many Glacier

Pros:

• Iconic views and frequent wildlife sightings.
• Nearby lodging at Many Glacier Hotel.
• Best hikes to reach Glaciers

Cons:

• Popular area, so expect some crowds.
• Currently under construction till 2026 so VERY limited parking.
• Farthest area from Kalispell 3-4 hours

Location	Participants	Accessibility	Additional Info
Lake Josephine Shoreline	15	May-October	1 mile hike to location
Many Glacier Hotel Green	15	May-October	Must notify hotel
Many Glacier Hotel SW Beach	15	May-October	Must notify hotel
Many Glacier Hotel Beach	15	May – October	Must notify hotel
Many Glacier Ampitheater	100	May-October	Pets Allowed, Wheelchair accessible

St. Mary

Pros

• East Entrance to Going to the Sun Road
• Does not need Vehicle Reservation
• lots of amenities nearby

Cons

• very popular during peak season
• known area for epic wedding pictures

Location	Participants	Accessibility	Additional Info
St. Mary Ampitheater	50 peak 75 non-peak	year round	Pets Allowed, Wheelchair accessible
Rising Sun Ampitheater	100	May-October	Pets Allowed, Wheelchair accessible
Rising Sun Picnic Area Shoreline	15 peak 20 non-peak	May-October	regularly restricted due to wildlife. park at picnic area then walk down to shoreline
Sun Point	20	May-October	Very Windy! lots of parking and nearby picnic tables
Red Eagle Trailhead	12	Year Round	during seasonal closure you can hike to the trailhead
1913 Ranger Station	20	Year Round	During Seasonal Closure you can hike in
Cutbank Field	12 peak 20 non-peak	May-October	Field South of trailhead, must stay within 250 ft of road

Glacier National Park wedding Venues

Some couples choose to have their wedding outside of Glacier and go into the park for pictures afterward. There are lots of venues near the park if that;s what you prefer to do.

With Lodging

• Glacier Outdoor Center: Rustic yet elegant with cozy cabins.
• Belton Chalet: Historic charm with modern touches.
• Izaak Walton Inn: Quaint and charming with unique railcar rooms.
• Under Canvas Glacier: Luxury glamping experience.

Micro-Wedding/Elopement Packages

Many local vendors offer all-in-one packages, including officiant services, photography, and florals. Some popular options include Adventure Elopements and Wild Montana Weddings.

Where to Stay Near Glacier National Park

Places to stay in West Glacier

• Glacier Highland
• Great Northern Resort
• Apgar Village Lodge
• Lake McDonald Lodge
• Camping Options:
  • Apgar Campground: Convenient and family-friendly.
  • Fish Creek Campground: A quieter option with wooded sites.
  • Avalanche Campground: Close to popular trails like Avalanche Lake.

Places to stay in East Glacier

• Glacier Park Lodge
• Dancing Bears Inn
• Thronson’s Motel
• Mountain Pine Motel
• Camping Options:
  • St. Mary Campground: Near the St. Mary entrance and Going-to-the-Sun Road.
  • Rising Sun Campground: Offers proximity to St. Mary Lake.
  • Two Medicine Campground: Quiet and scenic, ideal for adventurous couples.

Rules and Policies for Glacier National Park Weddings

Leave No Trace

Respect nature. Leave nothing but footprints and take nothing but memories. Glacier has a strict culture of not just respecting nature but PROTECTING it. You are not allowed to pick flowers, branches, or rocks. This is considered sacred ground for the Native Blackfeet tribe and should be treated as such.

Trail Safety

The number one cause of injury in Glacier National Park is dehydration. Please pack extra water and electrolytes! The next biggest include Drowning, Car accidents, and hiking injuries (think sprained ankles).

Do Not get in the water during the spring and early summer! Especially rivers. The snow melt causes a very strong current that can carry trees and trap them underwter. Every year people die thinking they can swim in the rivers. Roads in Glacier are windy and difficult. In the summer they can be VERY busy and people will stop suddenly for wildlife, rockfalls, etc. Do not drive impaired and don’t put yourself in situations where you might get road rage due to traffic. If you are not comfortable driving there are lots of buses and shuttles that can take you places. Make sure you wear proper shoes that support your ankles and arches. Take lots of breaks and wear clothes you are comfortable moving in.

Stick to designated trails and be bear-aware! Animal attacks are rare and mostly avoidable if everyone respects the wildlife. Carry bear spray and make noise while hiking so you don’t spook any animals. Be sure to give them lots of space if you see one.

Backcountry First Aid

As a camp counselor I took a week long in person Wilderness First Aid course that was life changing! Not everyone gets that ooportunity but luckily there are other resources that can help you and others on the trails.

The American Red Cross has an emergency reference guide to help you know what to do even if panic starts to set in. American Outdoors School offers a FREE online wilderness first aid course that I highly recommend! Set up a date and snuggly with your spouse while you learn how to protect yourselves and each other.

Local Vendors You Might Want

• Photographer: Specializing in outdoor weddings. Most photographers help with planning so find your photographer FIRST.
• Florist: Local blooms that thrive in Montana’s climate are perfect for your bouquet.
• Hair & Makeup: Professionals who can help you look your best, even outdoors. Make sure to find one that can prepare you for looks that will hold up in rain, wind, snow, smoke, etc.
• Bakery: For a wedding cake that’s as stunning as your backdrop. Most couples who elope get a small one and eat it in Glacier.
• Vehicle Rental: Consider a 4×4 for easier access to remote areas.
• Private Chef: For a post-ceremony picnic or intimate reception. You can also pack your own picnic for a more eco friendly option.

Packing List for a Glacier National Park Wedding

What to Wear

• Layers, layers, layers! More specifically bring thermals, extra socks, Hots, gloves, and a CUTE jacket that you are happy to have in pictures. Glacier’s weather can change quickly.
• Comfortable hiking shoes or boots.
• Formal attire that’s easy to pack and move in.

What to Bring

• Reusable water bottles.
• Sunscreen and bug spray.
• Snacks for energy during hikes or long photoshoots.
• Marriage License
• Cake, Flowers, make up
• First Aid Kit

NOT to Bring

• Anything disposable—leave no trace!
• Loud music or large decorations that disturb the peace. No rugs, arbors, displays of any kind.
• High heels (they’re impractical on trails).

Elopement Packages and Planning Assistance

As a photographer that also helps with planning your wedding adventure in Glacier National Park, I believe your day is about your love! Every wedding should be unique to the couple so please contact me for a custome quote. prices range from 3500-10k depending on how much time you want to book, if you want an album, a 2nd photographer, etc. I have 4 common packages and we work from that to build what is best for you.

Thank you so much for reading! I hope this was helpful and please leave a comment with any questions about having a Glacier National Park wedding!