How to Elope in Banff in 2025/2026: A Banff Elopement Guide
February 11, 2025
If you’re reading this you probably decided that having a big traditional wedding wasn’t for you, and instead, you’re drawn to the idea of eloping in the mountains. Maybe Banff National Park has captured your heart as the perfect place to exchange your vows, but you’re not quite sure where to begin. Don’t worry — You’re in the right place! We got you covered.
In this blog post, we will share the step-by-step process of how to get married in Banff National Park. Plus, we’re spilling all the insider tips we’ve picked up from years of shooting weddings in this jaw-dropping place, along with tons of inspo to help you plan your dream day!
Skip the endless Googling because this guide is packed with everything you need to plan your dream Banff elopement: from permits, locations, to accommodations, to hidden gems, to fun activity ideas and more! Think of it as your personal roadmap to eloping in one of the world’s most stunning and popular destinations. So, sit back, grab a cup of coffee or tea, get cozy, and keep reading—we’re here to share all the info you need to make planning your Banff elopement a breeze!
Table of Contents:
- Learn about Banff National Park
- Why elope in Banff?
- How to elope in Banff
- 10 best places to elope in Banff
- Where to stay in/near Banff
- Where to eat in/near Banff
- Banff elopement photographers
- Banff elopement packages
About Banff National Park
Where is Banff?
Established in 1885, Banff National Park is Canada’s first national park and the flagship of the country’s park system, making it one of the oldest national parks within the present-day territories of the Treaty 6, 7, and 8, First Nations as well as the Métis Homeland. Spanning 6,642 kilometres (2,564 square miles) of spectacular valleys, vibrant turquoise lakes, endless mountain peaks, massive glaciers, and wildlife, Banff draws over 4 million visitors every year. If you’re into mountain views and endless outdoor adventures, Banff is the place to be!
When is Banff open?
Banff National Park is open all year! You can visit anytime, day or night. Some spots might have different hours or services, road or trail closures, but you’ll find something to do no matter the season. As we mentioned, certain roads close in the winter (looking at you, Moraine Lake road) so make sure you check out the seasonal closures when trip planning! Certain hiking trails are inaccessible in the winter as well (hello, avalanche risk) and there are seasonal restrictions in some areas to reduce bear disturbance and protect the sensitive alpine environment.
The visitor centre hours vary by season, you can check that out here!
How to get to Banff
The nearest major airport to Banff is the Calgary International Airport (YYC). Once you land, renting a car is your best bet if you want the freedom to explore the vast beauty of Banff at your own pace. If you do decide to rent a vehicle, you can check the traffic and road conditions through BanffNow. You can also get to Banff from Calgary by private shuttle bus (like the Banff Airporter or the Brewster Express), which can be beneficial if you’re visiting those highly sought after spots during mid-day in the peak season. If you plan to visit Banff in the winter, make sure you get a rental car with winter tires and be prepared for some less than ideal road conditions.
Do you have to purchase a Parks Canada pass to visit Banff?
Yes! To visit Banff National Park you’ll need to purchase a Parks Canada pass which must be displayed in your vehicle. Passes can be purchased at the park gate, visitor centre or in advance of your visit online (but you have to pay for shipping, so we suggest just getting in when you get here). If you plan on just driving through Banff National Park, you won’t need a pass, but if you want to stop or drive one of the scenic routes, you will need to purchase a park pass.
You can get either an annual Discovery Pass or a daily pass and can purchase as an individual or get family ones (covers up to 7 people in the same vehicle). Have a look at both and see which option will be the best value for your visit.
Why Elope in Banff?
Once you catch a glimpse of Banff’s picture-perfect scenery, it’s easy to see why it’s the place to elope. The views are oh so stunning, they’ll leave you speechless every single time — and trust us, we’ve been there a lot, and we’re still in awe! Whether it’s your first trip or you visit annually, Banff’s beauty will always make you feel like you’re in a dream.
You could spend days (or even weeks) exploring and still not see it all (even we haven’t seen it all and we’re out there all the time!). The park covers nearly 7,000km of wilderness in the Canadian Rockies, so there’s always something new to discover. There’s an endless list of adventures waiting for you — from hiking trails and rock climbing to canoeing or stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking, not to mention the helicopter tours! The possibilities are literally limitless. We highly recommend including some of your favourite adventurous activities in your timeline so you can really soak in all the park has to offer.
When is the best time to visit and elope in Banff?
The answer? Anytime is the best time. It all depends on what you want to do!
Banff is stunning year-round, but if you’re looking to combine your elopement with a bit of adventure, the sweet spot is from late spring to early fall. This is when the weather’s perfect for outdoor fun, and you can access all those incredible hiking trails without being waist deep in snow. Just a heads-up though: July and August are the peak months, so expect crowds and higher prices (hello, booking months in advance!).
If you’re aiming for a quieter time of year, May, June, and September are great choices. You’ll still get plenty of sunshine for any hiking and exploring you want to do, but without the summer rush. If you elope in late September or early October, you’ll catch the legendary larch season — when the forests turn gold, as if nature itself is showing off.
That being said, you’ll want to keep an eye on a few variables — such as wildfires and trail or road closures. Make sure to keep an eye out for any important updates from Parks Canada (we take care of this with all our eloping couples and monitor the areas they’re eloping in, so you don’t have to!). Also, if you’re eloping in the spring or fall, be ready for unpredictable snow and winter conditions in the mountains. There’s a running joke out here in Alberta that we keep our snow tires on until after the May long holiday weekend, because it always seems to snow that weekend. It’s all part of the adventure!
To recap, the most popular time of year to visit Banff is in the summer, so late June to early September. The lakes are free from ice, the weather is warmer, and accessibility is at it’s peak. That being said, there are some considerations for when the best time of the year to elope in Banff is, so here are some pros and cons for each season:
SPRING IN BANFF (APRIL-JUNE)
Pros:
- Snow capped mountains
- Temperatures begin to warm up
- No bugs out yet
- Less crowds
Cons:
- The weather can be unpredictable (with snowstorms still a potential)
- Trails can be muddy and the alpine is still snowy
- The lakes are all still frozen and snow covered (they don’t usually start to thaw until mid June)
SUMMER IN BANFF (JULY-SEPTEMBER)
Pros:
- Long days (summer solstice is in late June and the sun rises at 5:30am and sets at 10pm)
- Warm days but temps can still be cool at night (perfect for those sunrise hiking elopements)
- Wildflowers are in bloom and there’s lots of wildlife out
- Warm enough to go for a dip in the lakes
Cons:
- Busiest tourist season
- Afternoon thunderstorms are common
- Can get pretty hot during the day
- Chance of forest fire smoke is higher
FALL IN BANFF (JULY-SEPTEMBER)
Pros:
- Larches start to turn golden end of September/early October and it’s the most magical thing
- Cooler weather for hiking and a later start for sunrise photos
- Popular locations are not as busy as summer
Cons:
- Can get below freezing overnight
- Snow is likely and will make higher elevations inaccessible
WINTER IN BANFF (DECEMBER-APRIL)
Pros:
- Gorgeous winter wonderland vibes
- Chinooks can roll through to bring the temperature up
- Less crowds
- Travel can sometimes be cheaper
- Perfect skiing and skating weather
Cons:
- Can get very cold (we’re talking -30C … brrr)
- Higher elevation roads/viewpoints close for the season
If you like the sounds of a winter elopement, check out our Winter Banff Elopement Guide for all the tips and our fave locations!
How to Elope In Banff
Where can we get married in Banff?
Wherever ceremonies are allowed! Small gatherings of 20 people or less (this includes your attending vendors) are permitted if you want an outdoor ceremony with some conditions. There are also some bookable larger outdoor venues as well as indoor venues that accommodate larger groups and full on traditional weddings.
Do we need a permit to get married in Banff?
Yes! There are some park rules of course to follow (more on that later) and you will need to submit a Special Event Registration form to the park. You can download the form, fill it out, and then either email or mail it to the park. There is no fee associated with this and the information is just for administration purposes.
Here is some additional info on the conditions of eloping in Banff:
- A maximum of 20 participants may attend the ceremony.
- Wedding participants are required to comply with national park regulations at all times.
- Temporary props, if used, are to be small and limited to a wedding arch, registration table and a chair.
- Tents or temporary shelters are not permitted.
- Opt for quiet music options such as a guitar, flute or harp.
- Gas-powered generators, excessive noise, unruly behaviour, loud music or P.A./amplification systems are not permitted.
- Choose a less popular location, or a time earlier or later in the day to avoid congestion.
- Keep vehicular traffic to a minimum (carpool or use public/group transportation).
- Park in designated lots only.
Prohibited activities include, but are not limited to:
- Throwing of confetti (natural or synthetic). This includes paper, rice, eco-alternatives, flower petals or leaves, etc.
- Use of drones (anyone caught operating a drone within park boundaries may result in law enforcement action and a fine of up to $25,000)
- Off-roading to access the site
- Use of pyrotechnics
- Release of live animals (e.g. doves, butterflies, etc.)
- Overnighting at day-use areas
FYI, you won’t need to fill out this permit information if you are already married and just taking wedding portraits.
How much does it cost to elope in Banff National Park?
This all depends! It costs at least $61 to get married in Banff. The cost of entrance in is $11/person for daily admission and your marriage license will cost at least $40 (the additional service fees may vary by registry).
Of course, the rest is up to you for choosing your own adventure here with added costs of accommodations, florals, food, photographer, officiant, etc. We recommend choosing vendors that are familiar with the area and has experience working in the area. If you’re having a hiking elopement, please make sure your photographer has experience hiking and knows how to handle backcountry emergencies. We’ve seen it all on the trails, from not having any water, food, bear spray, or proper footwear! Vendors base their pricing on years of experience, client experience, knowledge, and the amount of coverage needed. Remember, you’re going to be with some vendors for most of your wedding day, you want to make sure this person is someone you trust and are excited about!
To give you an example, this is the average spending cost for experienced vendors and accommodations on your elopement day in Banff. In the meantime, we are over here crossing our fingers that we just might be the right fit for you!
Discovery Pass (2025 rate): $151.25
Photographer: $4000-$12000
Videographer: $3500-$12000
Wedding Officiant: $400-$1000
Marriage License: $100-$150
Hair & Makeup: $200-$500
Florals: $200-$600
Cake/Dessert: $300-$600
Planner: $2000-$8000
Accommodation: $600-$3000
On average, couples who elope in Banff spend anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000 on their vendors and accommodations. Then there’s the cost of any activities you want to get up to, but this is also personal preference so the cost here all depends! You could add in something extra fun, like an epic helicopter ride or a dog sled adventure! And if you’re the sporty type, there’s always the option of a ski elopement (seriously, how cool is that?!), but keep in mind you’ll need to grab a ski pass for that. Bottom line: your elopement is all about YOU, so let it be as unique and exciting as your love story!
How do I legally elope in Banff?
You will need to arrive to Alberta at least a business day before your Banff elopement so that you can go get your marriage license. To get your license, you’ll need to apply together at a registry agent office, affirm the appropriate affidavits, and pay the required $40 government fee. Check out this article for more specifics when it comes time to actually apply for your license!
Here is some information about the marriage license:
- There are no residency or citizenship requirements for getting a marriage license in Alberta
- There’s no waiting period once you get your license, so you can get married right away
- Your license will be valid for 3 months from the date it’s issued and is only valid in Alberta
- Blood tests are not required
- Both of you must be at least 18 years old
- You will need at two witnesses over the age of 18 (We’ve got you covered here! We can be your two witnesses)
10 best places to elope in Banff
Banff National Park is overflowing with stunning spots, so picking just a few was definitely a challenge. But we’ve rounded up some of our absolute favourite places to elope in this mountain wonderland, and trust us — these are the ones you won’t want to miss!
Let’s kick things off with a few easy-to-reach options…
1. Bow Lake
Our personal favourite. Bow Lake owes it’s mesmerizing colour to the glacier melt from the Crowfoot Glacier and Wapta Icefield. The dramatic rock wall of Crowfoot Mountain, a hanging glacier, and the massive Wapta Icefield, this view is a perfect reminder of nature’s raw power and beauty—guaranteed to leave you feeling both small and awestruck. One of our favourite things about Bow Lake is how accessible it is! It’s a short 5 minute walk down to the lakeshore and is all flat, so this is great if you’re bringing some guests that require an accessible location. It’s also gorgeous all year round. There are beautiful hikes nearby so this is also one we suggest if you want to have a sunrise hike just the two of you and then come down and meet your friends & fam along the shoreline for your ceremony.
2. Peyto Lake
Peyto Lake is just a short hop north of Bow Lake, and trust me, it’s worth every step! A quick 15-minute hike takes you to a jaw-dropping viewpoint where you can see the lake shaped like a howling wolf. It’s one of our all-time favourite spots for catching either sunrise or sunset. Even if you’re not eloping here, you have to add it to your Banff bucket list.
3. Lake Minnewanka
Lake Minnewanka is just a quick drive from Banff town, and it’s stunning no matter the season! It’s the second largest lake in Alberta (1st goes to Abraham Lake, in Nordegg), stretching over up to 28km (17.4 miles). This massive, gorgeous lake has plenty of room to spread out, so you’re likely to find a peaceful, private spot if you’re there early in the morning or right at sunset. We tend to avoid this one during the day as it can be pretty busy!
4. Two Jack Lake
Just a short drive from Lake Minnewanka, you’ll find this charming little lake that’s buzzing with activity during the day — think picnics, SUP, and canoeing. But for an elopement, it’s perfect at sunrise or sunset! Imagine saying your vows with the soft glow of the sun setting over the water, and maybe even hopping into a canoe for some fun post-ceremony vibes.
5. Lake Louise
Tucked right in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Lake Louise is the ultimate Banff destination. Known for its stunning emerald-green waters, breathtaking mountain vistas, and the grand Victoria Glacier, it’s a place that defines natural beauty. There are so many incredible hiking trails here as well that range from beginner to difficult. We recommend eloping as close to sunrise or sunset to avoid the mid-day crowds.
Fun fact from Liz: The stunning blue colours of the Canadian Rockies aren’t just a fluke — it’s all thanks to a little science called light absorption and refraction (I’m not an expert, I’m just a science nerd and love learning about how stuff works). When sunlight hits the water, most colours get absorbed, but blue light, with its longer wavelength, doesn’t absorb as easily. Instead, it scatters and reflects back to our eyes, giving the water that incredible, vivid blue glow. This little light trick, called selective light absorption, is what makes lakes like Lake Louise and Emerald Lake have those unreal blue hues!
6. Moraine Lake
Nestled right in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, it’s as majestic as it gets, with vibrant blue waters surrounded by mountain peaks and larch trees. This spot is incredibly popular, so be ready to share it’s beauty with many other adventurers. As of 2023, no personal vehicles are allowed to access the road to Moraine Lake at any time, unless you are a guest that’s booked at Moraine Lake Lodge. If you are considering having your elopement at Moraine Lake, you will need to ensure your vendors have permitted private transportation to access the road. But trust me, it’s totally worth it! Moraine Lake is perfect for a summer or fall elopement, open from June to October, and with popular hiking trails all around (the most popular one being Larch Valley and Sentinel Pass) you can easily spend an entire day here.
Fun fact from Liz: The Canadian Rockies are home to a ton of glaciers, and as they melt, they send icy waters rushing down the mountainsides. But here’s where it gets cool (literally!) — as the glaciers melt, they release tiny particles called “rock flour” into the lakes and rivers. This rock flour is made up of super fine minerals like silt, clay, and glacial till, and it hangs out in the water, scattering sunlight and creating that iconic turquoise or milky blue glow. Moraine Lake and Peyto Lake are prime examples of this natural magic, where the glacier melt and rock flour team up to create those mind-blowing blue hues that almost look too unreal to be true.
The rest of these locations are a little to a lot more adventurous options for your Banff elopement!
7. Helen Lake
This hidden gem starts right across from Bow Lake and stretches for 6km (one way) on a moderate, well-maintained trail. Think towering mountains, wildflowers, and that feeling of being completely immersed in nature’s beauty. This is one of our favourite wildflower hikes in mid-summer and a definite must do on you trip to Banff. Take a page from the marmots who chill on the sun-warmed rocks and set yourself up for a picnic with a view that will make your heart skip a beat.
8. Parker Ridge
Dreaming of an elopement in Banff with epic mountain views but don’t want to tackle a grueling hike? Parker Ridge is the answer! 2.7km one way, it takes about 2.5hrs round trip to do. Once you reach the ridge, you’ll be treated to a dramatic panorama of the Saskatchewan Glacier, a key outlet glacier of the Columbia Icefield that flows into the North Saskatchewan River. It’s the ideal mix of “wow” factor and low-effort adventure, making it perfect for couples who want to say “I do” in the heart of Banff without working up too much of a sweat!
9. Big Beehive
A stunning and steep hike that begins out of Lake Louise and takes you up to one of the most beautiful views to watch the sun come up and see that insanely blue colour of the lake. You can even stop on the way down at Lake Agnes tea house for a little treat after!
10. Mount Assiniboine
This one is technically goes in British Columbia, but it’s our absolute favourite place in all of the Rockies, we just had to include it. With towering peaks, sparkling lakes, larch forests, and alpine meadows, this place is a true mountain wonderland. The crown jewel? The stunning Mount Assiniboine, often called the “Matterhorn of the Rockies” for its iconic, dramatic shape. This one is for those couples who want to start their marriage off with an incredible adventure of a lifetime. There are many beautiful lakes at Mount Assiniboine, such as Lake Magog, Sunburst Lake and Cerulean Lake.
This stunning backcountry paradise is only accessible by hiking, horse or helicopter and cannot be reached by vehicle. The nearest starting point means hiking in 26km, so a 2 night stay is a must! You can skip the hike and fly in by helicopter, however bookings can only be made with secured accommodations (either staying at the Lodge or Naiset huts) or camping reservations. Check out our How to Plan a Backcountry Elopement blog for more info on this kind of an elopement!
There you have it, those are 10 of the best locations for a Banff elopement! There are also plenty more backcountry camping sites and longer hikes to chose from if you’re wanting a more adventurous day! We also have a ton of off the beaten track gems that we would love to share with you, so don’t hesitate to reach out!
Where to stay for your Banff elopement
There’s really something for everyone in terms of accommadations for your Banff elopement. We like to tell couples to make a whole trip out of your elopement and to stay somewhere that really fits your vibe. There’s also nothing cuter than starting or ending your photo coverage for your elopement where you’re staying. You can capture those memories all cozied up in front of the fire or in the hot tub and have the whole feeling and experience of your elopement documented! You deserve it!
With that in mind, here are some of the best Airbnb’s, campgrounds, and hotels in the Banff area:
BEST AIRBNB’S NEAR BANFF
- Banff Log Cabin
- Brampton Cabin
- Private Suite with Rooftop Sauna & Deck in Canmore
- Miner’s Peak 4 BR/4 BTH Private Hot Tub/Townhouse
BEST CAMPGROUNDS NEAR BANFF
- Tunnel Mountain
- Two Jack Lake
- Waterfowl Lakes
- Banff has some of the most beautiful backcountry camping sites in the world. Just say the word and we will be there, bag packed, ready to capture your most meaningful adventure yet!
BEST HOTELS NEAR BANFF
- Buffalo Mountain Lodge. Hot tip: this one is located right near Tunnel Mountain and has elopement packages and also large rooms to host a small reception in.
- Moose Hotel and Suites
- Fairmont Banff Springs
- Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
- Baker Creek by Basecamp
Where to eat near Banff
Banff and surrounding areas have such great options for food, from grab and go to upscale dining. You have allll the options!
- Best Pizza:
- Bear Street Tavern: Known for their artisanal pizzas with unique toppings and a cozy atmosphere
- Best Breakfast:
- Wild Flour Bakery: Popular for its freshly baked pastries, sandwiches, and breakfast items (And fast wifi! We work here a lot when we’re in Banff)
- Best Tacos:
- Magpie & Stump: A local favourite for Mexican cuisine, serving tasty tacos and other traditional dishes.
- Best Fancy Dinner:
- The Bison Restaurant: Known for its upscale Canadian cuisine and a cozy ambiance perfect for a fancy dinner.
- Bluebird: A wood-fired steakhouse known for its fondue and prime rib, alongside classic cocktails and comfort food that’s perfect for any mood.
- Eden at Rimrock Resort Hotel: Offers an elegant dining experience with exquisite dishes and stunning mountain views.
- Best Sushi:
- Hello Sunshine: Right in Banff, they have top notch food, service, and vibe.
- Best Grab and Go:
- Trailhead Cafe: This is hands down our favourite. It’s a mandatory stop anytime we’re at Lake Louise, Lake O’Hara or the Icefield’s Parkway. We eat there every single time we have a shoot out that way. Great coffee, great food. Try it! Liz’s favourite: The Canadian Club. Dom’s favourite: The Chicken Ceasar Wrap.
Enjoy!
Banff Elopement Photographers
Okay, how excited are you getting for your Banff elopement?? We know we are! Banff is truly such a magical place and you cannot go wrong planning your elopement here! And if you’re looking for a fun, adventure-loving, and knowledgeable photographers to help you figure out how to elope in Banff, we got you!
As Banff elopement photographers, we know all the good places and would love to help you plan your most intentional and meaningful experience yet! We are going to not only have the most fun, but also capture the most YOU photographs and memories that you can imagine!
Scroll down to learn more about our Banff elopement packages! Or head on over to our website to find out more about us and see more photos or just jump over to our contact form and let’s get started planning your Banff elopement!
Banff elopement packages
Okay, before we get into the $$, click here to discover our process, what all you’ll get in each package, and to learn more about us!
Now, jumping into the details – our Banff elopement packages are custom made to each client to make sure that you get exactly what you had in mind for your day.
Starting at $4500 CAD, all of our Elope Wilder packages include:
- At least 4 hours of photo coverage
- 2 photographers (Liz & Dom) to tell the complete story of your day
- Our digital 100+ page How to Elope Guide
- Local and amazing vendor recommendations
- Personalized location suggestions for your day
- A custom timeline
- All the snacks 🍪
It’s our goal to make sure that you have the most stress-free experience planning your elopement and have the best day ever where you can be present with each other and have the space to be completely yourselves. We’re all about helping you craft the best day ever, whether you’re dreaming of having a multi-day elopement in the backcountry or simply want the ceremony and some casual portraits of the two of you captured.
Send us a message and let’s get started planning your Banff elopement! We can’t wait!!
