Dreaming of getting married surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, towering mountains, and crystal-clear lakes? Glacier National Park offers stunning views for your wedding day, making it a great choice for couples who love the great outdoors. If you’re wondering what you need to know to have a wedding in Glacier National park, I put together a guide for you to help you feel more prepared for your big day!

Glacier National Park Wedding Permit

Before you can say “I do” in this gorgeous location, you’ll need to secure a “Special Use Permit” from the National Park Service! They require this permit for weddings and elopements that are held within the park boundaries. Also, keep in mind there’s a non-refundable $125 application fee. All the specific requirements and steps you need to take to get a permit can be found on their website. I recommend applying far in advance since the demand is high for having a wedding in Glacier National Park!

Guest Limits

Whether you’re having an intimate wedding, elopement, or a larger event, Glacier National Park has many beautiful locations to choose from! However, the park limits the number of guests you can have depending on the site. In most locations, 15-30 guests are allowed. When applying for a permit, you must include the total guest count, which includes you and your partner, your photographer and/or videographer, your officiant, and all your guests. All the information you need about locations and guest limits can be found on the park’s Wedding Locations page!

Best Time to Have a Wedding in Glacier National Park

If you want a good chance of experiencing nice weather during your wedding in Glacier National Park, then I recommend planning for July or August! However, it’s also the busiest time of the year since it’s the most popular time for weddings in the park. So, be prepared for crowds and make sure to apply for permits as soon as possible! If you want to avoid the crowds and don’t mind cooler temperatures, then I suggest getting married in late spring, early summer, or early fall. Also, keep in mind some locations during fall might start to close down or become less accessible as winter approaches. 

Best Places for Wedding Photos in Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park has so many amazing locations to take your wedding photos! Be sure to check the park regulations. Also, keep in mind that some spots are easier to access depending on the season! Here are some of the best spots for capturing your wedding memories:

• Lake McDonald: The clear waters here are perfect for capturing reflections of the towering mountains. Plus, the Lake McDonald Lodge adds a beautiful touch to your photos!

• Logan Pass: This spot on the Going-to-the-Sun Road offers incredible mountain views and alpine meadows. It definitely has some beautiful, dramatic views of the park to witness.

• Many Glacier: With its stunning lakes and impressive peaks, Many Glacier feels so dreamy! The historic lodge here can add a nice rustic feel to your photos.

• St. Mary Lake: The blue water and surrounding mountains make this lake a gorgeous choice! If you’re getting married in the summer, the wildflowers around the lake are lovely. 

• Hidden Lake Overlook: It’s a bit of a hike to get there, but the views of Hidden Lake and the mountains are worth it. It’s perfect if you’re up for a little adventure!

• Two Medicine: For a quieter, more off-the-beaten-path spot, Two Medicine is ideal. The lakes and waterfalls here provide a peaceful setting!

• Bowman Lake: This place is a bit more secluded, which is great if you’re looking for a less crowded spot. The mountain reflections on the lake are simply beautiful!

• Grinnell Glacier: If you’re up for a hike, Grinnell Glacier is breathtaking! The glacier views and alpine scenery are so stunning!

Traveling Logistics

When planning a wedding in Glacier National Park, it’s important to coordinate your travel and accommodations. To reach the park, you can fly into nearby airports such as Glacier Park International Airport in Kalispell or Missoula International Airport. Both of these offer rental car services! From Kalispell, it’s about a 30-minute drive to the park’s west entrance, while Missoula Montana Airport is around a 2 and a half hour drive. Once inside the park, you have lodging options, such as Lake McDonald Lodge and Many Glacier Hotel. You also have the option to stay in nearby towns like Whitefish or Browning. Lastly, don’t forget to check the status of park roads and facilities since some areas can be inaccessible during certain times of the year!

Featured Wedding in the Blog: Holly & Ryan

Holly and Ryan had a breathtaking wedding ceremony at Whitefish Mountain Resort! Experiencing this was so special to me. Afterwards, I got to capture beautiful photos of them in Glacier National Park. Being a part of their love story was unforgettable! I also loved all the details, such as Holly’s dress (Essence of Australia) and the cake (C. Cups Cupcakery). Overall, I feel so grateful that I got to help Holly and Ryan have a special experience that they’ll cherish forever. 

Dress sleeves: Ezoani (@enzoani)

Bridal shop: Radiant Bride (Cleveland) (@radiantbridecle)

Dinner: Hellroaring Saloon (@hellroaringsaloonandeatery)

Kind Words From Holly & Ryan

“ARE THESE PHOTOS EVEN REAL!!!!!!!!!!!!! Cassie I am so obsessed!!! The ART!!!!! These are above and beyond my wildest dreams!!!!! Thank you both so so much!!!!! You are so freaking talented!!!!!!”

Let’s Plan Your Own Wedding in Glacier National Park!

I hope this guide has been helpful! If you’re ready to plan your wedding in Glacier National Park, I’d love to capture your special day! As your photographer, I can help you plan the wedding or elopement of your dreams. You can learn more about me here! If it sounds like I’d be the perfect photographer for you, then fill out my contact form. In the meantime, discover more wedding tips and beautiful sessions on the blog!