15 Best Places to Elope In Alberta

Eloping in Alberta means getting to explore some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. From towering mountain peaks and turquoise lakes to golden prairies and hidden waterfalls, Alberta can be so different if you just drive a couple hours in a each direction. This mean that there is truly something for everyone! Are you wondering where to elope in Alberta? We got you, we have photographed over 300 elopements in the area and we can’t wait to share with you our thoughts on the 15 best places to elope in Alberta.

One quick note, be sure to check out our entire How To Elope in Banff guide blog, which goes over everything like best time of year to elope, your permit, where to stay, what to eat, and so much more!

Okay, let’s dive in to the best places to elope in Alberta!

Best Places to Elope in Alberta

1. Kananaskis Country

Forever #1 on our list. Kananaskis is right next door to Banff so you can think of it as Banff’s equally as beautiful yet just not as busy neighbour. There are some incredibly beautiful drive up locations, as well as some of the most beautiful hikes in the world there. And if you want to get even further off the path, the backcountry of Kananaskis offers countless hidden lakes, alpine meadows, and rugged mountain views. The best time to elope here is summer and early fall to avoid snow-covered trails. Kananaskis is perfect for couples who want insane mountain and lake views while getting away from the craziness of Banff. Kananaskis is seriously such a gem. Dom loves it so much that she eloped here in 2019 and then named her daughter after the alpine lake they eloped at. We think you’ll love it that much too. Check out our How to Elope in Kananaskis guide blog as well as this Kananaskis Camping Elopement for some inspo!

2. Tent Ridge

Located in Kananaskis, this is just one of those hikes that should be on everyone’s must do list. It’s a 10km loop best done clockwise if you’re doing the whole horseshoe loop. We love doing sunset hikes that way up there. Fun fact, Dom got her maternity photos done up there while very pregnant. We love heading just up the north end for those sunrise elopements. This hike is perfect for those people who want incredible mountain and lake views and lots of adventure.

3. Waterton Lakes National Park

Located in southern Alberta, Waterton Lakes National Park is so gorgeous and full of that mountain scenery that the Canadian Rockies are known for. It’s is much quieter than both Banff and Jasper so Waterton is perfect for those people looking for a more chill and casual elopement. We love the fields surrounding Waterton, the beaches, and it also has some incredible hikes for the couples looking for more adventure. If this sounds like you, check out our Waterton Weddings & Elopements Guide blog.

4. Moraine Lake

With its surreal blue waters and dramatic peaks, Moraine Lake is that quintessential Banff elopement spot. The best times to elope here are early morning before the crowds arrive or late in the evening just before the sun sets, ideally in late spring through early fall when the lake is thawed. Moraine Lake is perfect for couples who want an iconic and awe-inspiring backdrop for their ceremony. Keep in mind that vehicle access is now restricted, so you’ll need to plan private transportation or use shuttle services. For more information on eloping in Banff, check out our How to Elope in Banff Guide blog.

5. Peyto Lake

Famous for its wolf-head shape and brilliant blue hue, Peyto Lake is another fave elopement spot of ours. The best time to elope here is from June to September when the lake is its most vibrant. We always recommend sunrise here for the best light. The elopement spot is only a quick 15 minute walk up from the parking lot which makes it pretty accessible. This is a great location for couples who want an adventurous yet relatively easy-to-reach elopement location for just the two of them (we don’t recommend having a ceremony with a group up here).

6. Emerald Lake (Yoho National Park)

Though technically in British Columbia, Emerald Lake is just over the Alberta border and too gorgeous to leave off the list. Its vibrant green waters and surrounding peaks make it a magical place to exchange vows. The best times to elope here are in the summer for the gorgeous lake or in winter for a fairytale snowy ceremony (it’s seriously the best for winter elopements!). Emerald Lake is deal for couples who want a stunning lakeside location with the option of a nearby lodge for post-ceremony celebrations. If you want more information on eloping at Emerald Lake, check out our How to Elope in Yoho blog.

7. Abraham Lake/Nordegg

Best known for its unique methane ice bubbles in winter, Abraham Lake offers a surreal elopement setting during colder months. In summer, its vast, rugged beauty is equally breathtaking. Winter is best for couples who love unique frozen landscapes, while summer offers dramatic blue waters and surrounding mountains. This is our favourite location for helicopter elopements and there are also some incredible Airbnb’s in Nordegg if you want to stay at a vibey cabin for your elopement (10/10 recommend).

8. Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park

This is another one that is located in BC, but you start the hike or take off in the helicopter from Alberta, so we have to include it. It’s one of our favourite places in the world and even though it can be pretty tricky to snag a booking, it is always very worth the effort you’ll put in. You can either stay in the lodge, the huts, or at the campground there. It has some incredible locations for sunrise and sunsets, you won’t regret saying your I do’s there!

Best Places to Elope in Alberta with Family

If you want to include family in your elopement, you’ll likely need a location that’s beautiful but also accessible for guests. These next five spots are some of the best places to elope in Alberta with family.

9. Crowsnest Pass

Crowsnest Pass is a hidden gem in southwestern Alberta, with rugged mountain landscapes, rolling hills, and historic charm. The best time to elope here is late spring through early fall, when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its best. Winter also provides a stunning snowy backdrop for adventurous couples.

This location is ideal for couples who love off-the-beaten-path destinations with a mix of mountain and prairie beauty. There are numerous scenic spots, including Lundbreck Falls, Chinook Lake, and the historic Frank Slide, which adds a dramatic and unique touch to your elopement photos. SpringBreak Flower Farm is the perfect spot for an insanely pretty greenhouse elopement.

10. Bow Lake

Bow Lake is an underrated yet stunning elopement location, offering incredible mountain reflections and a peaceful atmosphere. The best time to elope here is during the summer and early fall for the best lake reflections, though winter offers a unique snowy setting. It’s a fantastic choice for couples who want a quiet, scenic location with easy access. The lakeshore is only a few minutes walk from the parking lot, making it perfect to bring guests along.

11. Mount Engadine Lodge

Hands down one of our favourite locations in Alberta. I (Dom) have stayed there with my family and absolutely love it. It’s tucked into the heart of Kananaskis with options to stay in a glamping tent, a cabin, or a room in the small lodge. The food there is local and incredible and you cannot beat the views. You can rent out the entire lodge for your intimate wedding and guaranteed you’ll have the best time.

12. Spray Lakes (Kananaskis)

For a quiet lakeside elopement with mountain views, Spray Lakes is a fantastic choice. The best time to elope here is summer or fall, when the weather is mild and the lake is vibrant. This spot is perfect for couples who want a peaceful, easily accessible location for their ceremony with family. This is one of favourite spots for a ceremony when couples want to head up a mountain in Kananaskis for sunrise vows and then head down for a lakeside ceremony with friends and family.

13. Pyramid Island (Jasper National Park)

Pyramid Island is a beautiful, intimate elopement spot on a tiny island in Jasper. The best time to elope here is from spring through fall, when the lake is accessible and the weather is mild. With a scenic wooden bridge leading to a sheltered viewpoint, this location is excellent for a small family-friendly ceremony. It does get busy in the summer though, so keep that in mind.

14. Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

For couples wanting an elopement experience with family while still enjoying nature, Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge offers stunning ceremony locations with a luxurious touch. The best time to elope here is summer for lakeside ceremonies or winter for a cozy mountain retreat. This location is ideal for couples who want a mountain backdrop while ensuring guests are comfortable. There’s a ton of incredible locations in Jasper that we could also go to for an adventure and portraits.

15. A Bear and Bison Inn

For couples looking for a charming and intimate elopement venue, A Bear and Bison Inn in Canmore offers a beautiful setting with mountain views and a cozy atmosphere. The best time to elope here is year-round, as the inn provides a warm and inviting space in winter and a lush garden setting in summer.

This location is perfect for couples who want a stress-free elopement with a touch of luxury. The inn offers elopement packages that include everything from the ceremony setup to a gourmet breakfast the next morning. With its picturesque backdrop and personalized service, it’s an excellent choice for those wanting a relaxed yet elegant wedding experience. And their winter after sunset ceremonies are so unique and beautiful!

Plan Your Perfect Alberta Elopement

There you have it! Our version of the best places to elope in Alberta! No matter which location you choose, Alberta offers some of the most breathtaking places in the world to say “I do.” Whether you’re envisioning a rugged mountaintop adventure or a serene lakeside ceremony with family, there’s a perfect spot for your dream elopement.

At Elope Wilder, we specialize in capturing the magic of these intimate moments, ensuring your love story is told against the most stunning backdrops. Get in touch today to start planning your intentional Alberta elopement!