Imagine saying your vows as the sun rises over the still waters of Lake McDonald, the mountains reflecting perfectly in the glassy surface! That’s exactly the feeling we captured during this two-day styled elopement, designed for luxury and cowboy chic inspiration. It’s packed with ideas and inspiration for couples dreaming of their own Glacier National Park elopement.
Day One: Sunrise Vows at Lake McDonald
Our morning began early, because there’s nothing like catching the sunrise at Lake McDonald. Mid-August meant peak summer in the park!! Soft morning light and the lake perfectly calm.
Lexi & Keith read their vows on the shoreline, with the mountains providing the most stunning backdrop. Why Lake McDonald is an incredible spot to get married:
- Iconic mountain and lake views for truly epic photos.
- Easy access for couples looking for minimal hiking. (perfect for bringing your closest people along with you on your elopement day!)
- Opportunities for sunrise and sunset shots without crowds if planned carefully.
If you’re dreaming of an elopement here, you’ll need a permit from Glacier National Park. Ceremony permits are required for any formal gatherings and any time that you are reading vows in the park. Hiring a photographer experienced with permits like me, ensures that all regulations are followed so your day runs smoothly!
Day One Afternoon: Clydesdale Outpost Photoshoot
After vows, we headed to Clydesdale Outpost, a local horse ranch known for its stunning views and Clydesdale horses. This location added a touch of western charm to the luxury cowboy chic vibe! Still obsessed with all these photos! You can check out more about Clydesdale Outpost by checking out their website!
The outpost is perfect for couples who want:
- Unique photo opportunities with horses and wide-open landscapes.
- A rustic, western feel for your photos!
- Small, intimate experiences without the crowds of more popular spots.
They also offer accommodations as well as wedding and elopement packages, highly recommend checking them out! If you want more horse elopement inspo, check out my Wyoming Horse Elopement blog!
Day Two: Sunset Adventure at Sun Point
Two-day elopements honestly just make so much sense! They give couples like you the chance to:
- Break up the day and fully take in each moment.
- Take more adventurous or casual photos without feeling rushed. Some couples don’t want to hike in their wedding attire, so doing something more adventurous the day after makes a lot of sense!
Explore Glacier National Park with flexibility, making the most of both sunrise and sunset lighting over two days!
On day two, we explored Sun Point, one of my personal favorite trails for sunset photography and to show couples! The couple opted for casual outfits, highlighting the relaxed side of elopements!
Tips for Planning a Two-Day Elopement
- Mix locations: With two days you have so much that you can explore! So highly recommend going to all the best spots that match what vibe you are going for.
- Plan logistics ahead: Two-day elopements require coordination for permits, lodging, and transportation!
- Hire an experienced photographer: I guide couples through location permits, timeline planning, and documenting your story naturally!
Why Hire Me to Photograph Your Glacier Elopement
When you hire me as your elopement photographer, you’re not just booking someone to take pictures, you’re hiring a storyteller and someone to help be your local expert and guide. I specialize in:
- Documenting: capturing intimate moments in a natural, documentary style.
- Timeline planning: Elopements can feel rushed if you don’t plan ahead, I help create a realistic, stress-free schedule.
- Permit and vendor recommendations: I make sure all the logistics are handled smoothly and connect you with trusted vendors!
With a two-day elopement, I ensure every part of your adventure is photographed: from sunrise ceremonies to sunset explorations. My experience with permits and Glacier logistics means you can relax and focus on each other, while I document your story.
Pro Tips for Lake McDonald Elopements
- Book early: Peak summer is high season, and permits fill up fast.
- Sunrise or sunset ceremonies: Avoid crowds and capture the best natural light.
- Plan for flexibility: Weather can change quickly, so having multiple locations or outfits ensures your photos are still perfect.
Consider a multi-day adventure: A two-day elopement allows for both luxurious moments and casual exploration.
Final Thoughts
This Lake McDonald elopement showcases just how versatile Glacier National Park can be. From sunrise vows on the lake, to a horse ranch photoshoot, to sunset hikes in casual attire there is so much that you can do for your elopement day!
Whether you’re dreaming of a two-day Lake McDonald elopement or gathering inspiration for your own Glacier wedding, take all the inspo from this shoot!
Ready to start planning your own Glacier National Park elopement? Let’s craft your dream day in Glacier National Park!
