By Lizee Gardner Photography — Grand Teton & Jackson Hole Elopement Photographer

If you’re dreaming of a wedding day filled with mountain air, glowing sunsets, crystal lakes, and untouched Wyoming beauty, Grand Teton National Park is truly one of the most magical places you could choose for an elopement.

As a full-time Jackson Hole & Teton elopement photographer, I’ve created this guide to give you EVERYTHING you need to confidently plan your 2026 elopement — from the best months for clear mountain views, to wildfire-smoke awareness, to the best ceremony locations, permits, lodging, and more.

This guide is designed to be your one-stop resource, and by the time you finish reading it, you’ll know exactly why couples trust me to help plan and document their dream Teton elopement.

QUICK ANSWER: The Best Months to Elope in the Tetons (2026)

🥇 Late June – Mid July
• Best visibility
• Wildflowers
• Warm weather
• Lowest smoke risk

🥈 Late September – Early October
• Peak fall color
• Crisp temps
• Very clear mountain views

🥉 October – March
• Snowy wonderland
• Zero smoke
• Quiet + private

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Wildfire Smoke & Teton Visibility: What You NEED to Know

Wildfire smoke varies year to year, but visibility plays a HUGE role in mountain photos — and knowing when the Tetons are clearest is key.

Clearest Months (Least Smoke):

✔ May
✔ June
✔ Early July
✔ Late September
✔ October
✔ Winter (November–March)

Highest Smoke Risk:

• Late July through August

As your photographer, I track
→ visibility maps
→ air quality
→ sunrise clarity
→ backup locations
→ lighting shifts

…to make sure you get the best possible mountain views on your day.

Season-by-Season: What Each Time of Year Looks Like in the Tetons

Each season in Grand Teton National Park offers a completely different experience — from snowy winter wonderland views to warm summer lake days and glowing fall color. Understanding what each time of year looks and feels like will help you choose a date that aligns with your elopement vision.

Spring Elopements (April – June)

Best for: snowy peaks, dramatic skies, wildlife, privacy
Visibility: Excellent (very little smoke)

Spring brings green meadows, waterfalls, and snow-capped Tetons. Sunrise is magical, and trails begin melting out in May.

👉 Link to your Spring Portfolio

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Summer Elopements (July – August)

Best for: warm temps, lake access, wildflowers
Visibility: Great until mid-July; smoke possible in August

This is the most popular time of year — especially if you want deep green tones or to paddle at String Lake.

👉 Summer Portfolio

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Fall Elopements (September – October)

Best for: aspen color, crisp air, clear skies
Visibility: Very good after Sept 10

Fall in the Tetons looks straight out of a painting — glowing aspen trees, mild temperatures, and perfect golden light.

👉 Fall Portfolio

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Winter Elopements (November – March)

Best for: privacy, snowy mountains, blue winter tones
Visibility: Crystal clear (no smoke)

Winter elopements are cozy, romantic, and incredibly stunning with frosted trees and fresh snow.

👉 Winter Portfolio

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THE 11 BEST ELOPEMENT LOCATIONS IN GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK

(Includes Google Maps links, NPS links, guest counts, bathrooms, accessibility, etc)

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1. Schwabacher Landing

Guest Limit: 25
Best Time: Sunrise
View Quality: 10/10 — the Tetons reflect perfectly in still water
Accessibility: Easy, short walk
Bathrooms: Yes (seasonal)
Parking: Moderate, fills fast after sunrise
Vibe: Peaceful, intimate, wildlife-rich
Wildlife: Moose commonly appear here

✔ Why Couples Love It

Schwabacher Landing is hands-down the most iconic elopement location in the Tetons. The calm Snake River creates a mirror reflection of the mountain range, especially at sunrise when the water is perfectly still. The cottonwoods, winding creek, and wildlife make it feel like a hidden paradise. It’s stunning in every season except late fall when the grass dries out.

✔ Best Lighting

Sunrise is unbeatable:
• pink alpenglow
• low wind
• glowing mountain faces
• quiet + private

Evening can work too, but mountains may backlight.

✔ When It’s Best

• May–July (lush greens)
• September–October (golden tones)
• Winter (quiet, moody, icy reflections)

✔ Who It’s Perfect For

Couples wanting dreamy, romantic landscapes with reflections + wildlife.

✔ Who It’s Not Great For

• Big groups
• Midday ceremonies (harsh light)
• Those avoiding early mornings

📍 Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/hUXrwxoMxfDFAVmJ9
🌲 NPS: https://www.nps.gov/places/schwabacher-landing.htm

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2. Mormon Row (North & South Barns)

Guest Limit: 25–40
Best Time: Sunrise / Golden Hour
View Quality: 9/10
Accessibility: Extremely easy (flat ground)
Bathrooms: None
Parking: Easy
Vibe: Rustic, historic, western

✔ Why Couples Love It

The Moulton Barns are among the most photographed barns in America — the weathered wood and massive mountain skyline create a classic “Old West” feel. This location is stunning year-round and incredibly accessible.

✔ Best Lighting

Sunrise gives that signature orange glow on the barns + mountains.

✔ When It’s Best

• Year-round
• Summer = balanced greens
• Fall = golden perfection
• Winter = stark + stunning

✔ Who It Fits

• Western vibes
• Boots + hats
• Simple ceremonies with guests

📍 Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/WEJ33z6BnGmVGgFz9
🌲 NPS: https://www.nps.gov/places/mormon-row-historic-district.htm

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3. Snake River Overlook

Guest Limit: 25
Best Time: Sunrise
View Quality: 9/10
Accessibility: Easy
Bathrooms: None
Vibe: Dramatic, scenic, historic

✔ Why Couples Love It

This overlook was made famous by Ansel Adams, and it still remains one of the MOST dramatic, sweeping mountain viewpoints. The river curves through the valley, leading the eye right into the Teton peaks.

✔ Best Lighting

Sunrise → softer tones & glowing mountains.

✔ When It’s Best

• May–July
• September–October
• Winter (incredible clarity)

✔ Perfect For

Couples wanting dramatic, wide-angle scenic photos.

📍 Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/R6bGSVkZdmqQwF6G7
🌲 NPS: https://www.nps.gov/places/snake-river-overlook.htm

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4. Glacier View Turnout

Guest Limit: 25
Best Time: Sunset
View Quality: 10/10
Accessibility: Extremely easy
Bathrooms: None
Vibe: Open, epic, panoramic

✔ Why Couples Love It

This spot gives you the most panoramic, unobstructed view of the Tetons. It’s perfect for elopements with guests because of its accessibility and open layout. The mountains look massive here.

✔ Best Lighting

Sunset gives soft shadows and warm tones.

✔ When It’s Best

• All year
• Especially September–October

✔ Perfect For

• Couples wanting huge mountain views
• Elopements with guests
• Accessible locations

📍 Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/8P4a3Xb8kDNW7i1t7
🌲 NPS Map: https://www.nps.gov/grte/planyourvisit/maps.htm

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5. Blacktail Ponds Overlook

Guest Limit: 25
Best Time: Sunrise
View Quality: 8.5/10
Accessibility: Easy
Bathrooms: None
Vibe: Meadow, marsh, painterly, soft

✔ Why Couples Love It

This spot feels quiet, wild, and painterly — tall grasses, wetlands, and layered mountain views create a dreamy sunrise atmosphere.

✔ Best Lighting

Sunrise → soft golden meadow glow.

✔ When It’s Best

• June–October

✔ Perfect For

Couples wanting a natural, meadow aesthetic.

📍 Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/vTUnFq8JF5CmFcbH9
🌲 NPS: https://www.nps.gov/places/blacktail-ponds-overlook.htm

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6. Jenny Lake Overlook

Guest Limit: 15–25
Best Time: Morning
View Quality: 10/10
Accessibility: Easy
Bathrooms: Yes
Vibe: Alpine, romantic, timeless

✔ Why Couples Love It

Jenny Lake is famous for its teal water and dramatic mountain wall backdrop. It’s one of the most breathtaking alpine lake elopement spots in the U.S.

✔ Best Lighting

Morning → glowing blue water, crisp peaks.

✔ When It’s Best

• Late May–October
• Winter for moody vibes

✔ Perfect For

Couples wanting a true alpine lake setting.

📍 Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/FiqHqi8kLvvKDLfu8
🌲 NPS: https://www.nps.gov/grte/planyourvisit/jennylake.htm

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7. String Lake

Guest Limit: 12
Best Time: Morning
View Quality: 8/10
Accessibility: Easy
Bathrooms: Yes
Vibe: Forest, reflections, peaceful

✔ Why Couples Love It

This lake is known for its calm waters, pine forest backdrop, and intimate shoreline. Perfect for quiet, nature-immersed elopements. Has a beautiful long bridge!

✔ Best Lighting

Morning light creates rich greens + reflections.

✔ When It’s Best

• June–September

✔ Perfect For

Adventurous, barefoot, nature-loving couples.

📍 Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/KMwY9ukKXtRjKpT47
🌲 NPS: https://www.nps.gov/places/string-lake.htm

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8. Taggart Lake

Guest Limit: 12
Best Time: Morning
View Quality: 9/10
Accessibility: Moderate hike (easy, 1.5 miles)
Bathrooms: Trailhead
Vibe: Secluded, adventurous, alpine

✔ Why Couples Love It

Taggart Lake is a hike-to elopement with crystal water, lush forests, and unreal mountain reflections. The trail is shaded, beautiful, and great for couples wanting something adventurous but not too strenuous.

✔ Best Lighting

Morning → calm lake reflections, perfect skin tones.

✔ When It’s Best

• June–October

✔ Perfect For

Couples wanting a secluded, scenic adventure.

📍 Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/yTWEXvcyofmpR2zF7
🌲 NPS: https://www.nps.gov/grte/planyourvisit/hike-taggart.htm

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9. Granite Canyon Trailhead

Guest Limit: 12
Best Time: Sunset
View Quality: 7.5/10
Accessibility: Easy
Bathrooms: No
Vibe: Wooded, secluded, intimate

✔ Why Couples Love It

Granite Canyon is perfect for couples who love trees, forest vibes, and quiet trails with fewer crowds. You get lush greenery, soft filtered light, and privacy.

✔ Best Lighting

Sunset → warm glowing forest.

✔ When It’s Best

• June–September

✔ Perfect For

Forest lovers + those who want privacy.

📍 Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/aRrJ9HjLCKkt4Mzu8
🌲 NPS: https://www.nps.gov/places/granite-canyon.htm

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10. T.A. Moulton Barn

Guest Limit: 25
Best Time: Sunrise
View Quality: 9/10
Accessibility: Very easy
Bathrooms: No
Vibe: Classic western, rustic, historic

✔ Why Couples Love It

The T.A. Moulton Barn is an American icon — rustic wood textures, endless mountain views, and perfect sunrise light make it a stunning ceremony backdrop.

✔ Best Lighting

Sunrise → golden light on the barn + Tetons.

✔ When It’s Best

• May–October
• Winter for minimalist vibes

📍 Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/CuP8K9g7DJy4GmUu6
🌲 NPS: https://www.nps.gov/places/moulton-barns.htm

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11. The Wedding Tree (Gros Ventre / Bridger-Teton National Forest)

(Not inside GTNP — no GTNP permit required — managed by Bridger-Teton National Forest)

Guest Limit: 15 (recommended)
Best Time: Sunrise or sunset
Bathrooms: No
Accessibility: Short, flat walk
Parking: Very limited
Uniqueness: Symbolic intertwined trees + huge mountain views
Permit: Recommended to contact BTNF

📍 Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/BWxWqnh8Be5W8tHGA
🌲 Forest Service: https://www.fs.usda.gov/btnf

Why Couples Love the Wedding Tree

• VERY private
• Spiritual and symbolic
• Zero crowds
• Huge mountain view
• Outside GTNP restrictions
• Beautiful lighting at sunrise & sunset

Important Notes

• Not in the national park
• Parking is extremely limited
• Area is fragile — stay on trails
• Contact BTNF if unsure about group size

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Permits & Fees (2026)

Grand Teton National Park has very specific permit rules for weddings and elopements to help protect the land, preserve wildlife, and keep locations beautiful for everyone. Applying for a permit might feel intimidating, but it’s actually simple — and I walk all my couples through it step-by-step to make the process seamless. All Grand Teton elopements require a permit.

Wedding Permit Fee: $200
Apply Here: https://www.nps.gov/grte/planyourvisit/wedding-permits.htm

As part of my experience, I walk you through the entire application process from start to finish — no stress, no confusion.

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Where to Stay (Lodging Guide)

Choosing the right lodging can completely shape your Grand Teton elopement experience. Whether you want a luxury resort overlooking the mountains, a cozy cabin tucked into the forest, or a modern stay in downtown Jackson Hole, where you stay sets the tone for your entire trip. Here are some of the best places to stay that match the vibe of an intimate, adventurous elopement in the Tetons.

Luxury

• Amangani
• The Cloudveil
• Four Seasons

Mid-Range

• Wyoming Inn
• Rustic Inn
• The Lexington

Cabin/Airbnb Areas

• Moose
• Wilson
• Driggs/Victor

👉 Full lodging guide:

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How Much Does a Teton Elopement Cost?

Eloping in Grand Teton National Park can look a thousand different ways depending on your vision — from a simple sunrise ceremony to a full luxury experience complete with private tours, florals, videography, and more. Here’s a realistic breakdown of what couples typically invest so you can plan a day that aligns with your budget and dream experience.

Most couples spend $5,000–$22,000+, depending on lodging, flights, attire, vendors & activities.

👉 Full package details: https://lizeegardnerphotography.com/investment

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Sample Timelines

Creating a thoughtful timeline ensures that your elopement day feels relaxed, natural, and filled with meaningful moments instead of stress or rushing. These sample timelines give you a starting point for how your Grand Teton elopement could flow, based on the best lighting and locations.

Sunrise Elopement Timeline

5:00 — Meet
5:45 — Private vows
6:00 — Sunrise portraits
6:30 — Ceremony
7:30 — Picnic
8:00 — Adventure photos

Sunset Elopement Timeline

3:00 — Getting ready
5:00 — First look
6:00 — Ceremony
6:30 — Portraits
8:00 — Sunset glow

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Teton Elopement FAQ

If you’re just starting to plan your Grand Teton elopement, you’re probably wondering about permits, guests, timing, weather, and more. These are the questions I get asked most often — and my honest answers from photographing elopements across the Tetons for years.

What’s the best month to elope in the Tetons?

June, early July, late September, or October.

Do we need a permit?

Yes — every ceremony requires a $200 NPS permit.

Can we bring pets?

Pets are not allowed at ceremony locations.

How many guests can we bring?

12–40, depending on your chosen site.

Is smoke a big problem?

Sometimes in August. June & fall are the clearest.

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Ready to Plan Your Dream Grand Teton Elopement?

I would love to help you choose your date, secure permits, build your timeline, and create a magical, stress-free elopement day in the mountains.

👉 Contact Me: https://lizeegardnerphotography.com/contact
👉 View Packages: https://YOURWEBSITE.com/elopement-packages
👉 See Portfolio: https://lizeegardnerphotography.com/portfolio