If you’re dreaming of an intimate and breathtaking wedding surrounded by towering peaks, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife, Grand Teton National Park might just be the perfect place to say “I do.” Whether you’re eloping with just the two of you or planning a small ceremony with close friends and family, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about getting married in this stunning national park.
Why Choose Grand Teton National Park for Your Wedding?
Grand Teton National Park offers dramatic landscapes with the iconic Teton Range as your backdrop. The park is ideal for couples who love the outdoors and want a wedding that feels both adventurous and serene. Here are a few reasons why Grand Teton is a top wedding destination:
- Unmatched Scenery – Snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and lush meadows create an unbeatable setting.
- Seasonal Beauty – Whether you prefer wildflowers in the summer, golden aspens in the fall, or a snow-dusted winter wonderland, each season brings its own magic.
- Adventure Opportunities – Make your wedding weekend unforgettable with hiking, wildlife viewing, boating, and breathtaking mountain views.
Where to Get Married in Grand Teton National Park
Before we dive into the beautiful locations in Grand Teton National Park we need to talk about their permits, because it will determine what locations we can look at. As of 2025, Grand Teton National Park has 2 types of permits for a wedding or commitment ceremony. 1) Reserved Site-Specific Ceremony or 2) Small Dispersed Ceremony. If you have more than 12 people in attendance at your ceremony (including the 2 of you, any vendors, and guests including kids) you will apply for a Reserved Site-Specific Ceremony Permit. If you have 12 or less you will apply for a Small Dispersed Ceremony Permit. If you can keep your guest list below 12 I highly suggest it! You will have so many more options to choose from and so much more freedom on your wedding day.
If you book with me, I will help you through the permit process.
What is a Reserved Site-Specific Ceremony Permit?
It is the permit you will apply for if you have more than 12 people at your ceremony. Grand Teton National Park noticed that 6 locations were becoming extremely popular for wedding and commitment ceremonies. So, they placed some restrictions on these locations to help protect them. The park will only allow 1 ceremony per day and between 30-60 ceremonies per year at each of these 6 locations. Keep in mind that the permit does not grant exclusive access to these locations during the time of your ceremony, and other park visitors will likely be nearby. Some locations become fully booked within a few weeks of the park accepting permit applications. The application period typically opens around the middle of December for the next year. Here is a list and map of the 6 Reserved Site-Specific Ceremony locations.
1) Colter Bay Swim Beach- Only 30 weddings per year & books up fast! It is fully booked for 2025
2) Mountain View Turnout- Can’t accept ceremonies held before June 1st
3) Snake River Overlook
4) Schwabacher Landing- Books up fast and is fully booked for 2025
5) Glacier View Turnout
6) Mormon Row (North & South)- Books up fast and is fully booked for 2025
These photos were taken at the Reserved Site-Specific Locations
Where can we have a Small Dispersed Ceremony?
SO MANY PLACES!!!! If you have 12 or less in attendance you can have your ceremony in so many beautiful places inside Grand Teton National Park! Here are a few of my favorites.
Cascade Canyon Turnout
Blacktail Pond
Taggart Lake Trailhead
Here are a few of my favorite hidden gems!
When is the best time of year to get Married in Grand Teton National Park?
If you’re considering a wedding in Grand Teton National Park, timing is everything! The park offers breathtaking scenery year-round, but each season brings its own charm, challenges, and unique atmosphere. Whether you’re dreaming of a summer wildflower wedding, a crisp fall elopement, or a winter wonderland ceremony, this guide will help you decide the best time to say “I do” in this stunning national park.
Spring (May– June): A Fresh Start
🌸 Why Choose Spring?
Spring in Grand Teton National Park is a time of renewal, with melting snow, blooming wildflowers, and flowing waterfalls. The crowds are still light compared to summer, making it a great time for an intimate wedding.
✔️ Pros:
- Fewer tourists, meaning more privacy for your ceremony.
- June will bring fresh greenery, wildflowers, and snow-capped peaks.
- Wildlife is active—bears, moose, and elk are often spotted.
❌ Cons:
- The weather is unpredictable—snowstorms and rain showers are possible.
- Some roads and trails may still be closed due to snow.
- Temperatures can be chilly, especially in the mornings and evenings.
- Depending on the previous winter we could still have snow in the valley, & high traffic walking areas will likely be muddy.
🌟 Best for:
Couples who love cooler temperatures and don’t mind a little unpredictability for the chance at stunning spring scenery.
Summer (July – August): The Peak Season
☀️ Why Choose Summer?
Summer is the most popular season in Grand Teton National Park, and for good reason. The days are long, the weather is warm, and every trail, viewpoint, and lake is accessible. If you want sunshine and vibrant landscapes, summer is ideal.
✔️ Pros:
- The best weather—warm days and cool nights.
- Wildflowers are in full bloom, and the lakes are crystal clear.
- Every park location is open, giving you the most options.
❌ Cons:
- The park is at its busiest, meaning more congested roads, more tourists and less privacy.
- Peak Season rates for lodging, & excursions
- Popular locations may require extra planning to avoid crowds.
- Wedding vendors and lodging book up quickly—reserve early!
- Summer season is also Fire season. Smokey skies are possible, but that’s nothing we can’t handle
🌟 Best for:
Couples who want guaranteed access to all the park’s iconic locations and don’t mind sharing the space with other visitors.
💡 Pro Tip: Consider a sunrise or weekday ceremony for a more private experience!
Fall (September – October): Golden and Romantic
🍂 Why Choose Fall?
If you want golden aspen trees, crisp mountain air, and fewer crowds, fall is an incredible time for a wedding in Grand Teton. The scenery is breathtaking, and the weather is often still mild.
✔️ Pros:
- Stunning fall foliage, with golden and red hues across the landscape.
- Fewer crowds than in peak summer months.
- Mild temperatures, often with clear, crisp days.
❌ Cons:
- Snow can start falling as early as mid-September.
- Some park facilities and roads start closing in October.
- Wildlife will be in mating season and preparing for winter, so they will be more active (which is great for photos but requires caution).
🌟 Best for:
Couples who love autumn colors and cooler weather while avoiding the summer rush.
Winter (November – April): A Snowy Wonderland
❄️ Why Choose Winter?
For couples who dream of a snow-covered elopement, winter in Grand Teton National Park is truly magical. The park is incredibly quiet, and the Teton Range looks breathtaking under a blanket of snow.
✔️ Pros:
- Ultimate privacy—very few visitors in the park.
- Stunning winter landscapes with snow-covered peaks and frozen lakes.
- Cozy, intimate vibes—perfect for elopements.
❌ Cons:
- Freezing temperatures and potential snowstorms.
- Limited park access—many roads and facilities are closed.
- Some businesses will shut down during the winter months.
- You’ll need winter gear and extra planning for warmth and safety.
🌟 Best for:
Adventurous couples who love the idea of a winter wonderland wedding and don’t mind bundling up for the occasion!
So, When Is the Best Time to Get Married in Grand Teton?
The answer depends on what kind of wedding experience you want!
- For lush green landscapes and wildflowers: Late June – early July
- For warm weather and full accessibility: July – August
- For golden leaves and fewer crowds: Mid-September – early October
- For a private, snow-covered ceremony: December – February
No matter when you choose to get married in Grand Teton National Park, you’ll be surrounded by stunning scenery and unforgettable moments. Just be sure to plan ahead, check permit requirements, and embrace the beauty of nature!
Final Thoughts
A wedding in Grand Teton National Park is an unforgettable way to begin your journey together, surrounded by some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. With a little planning and a love for the outdoors, you can create a truly magical and meaningful celebration. I’d love to help you make it happen!
