Getting Married in Glacier National Park: A Guide to Scenic Ceremony Spots
Photo: Elsa Eileen Photography
Getting married is no casual undertaking. Getting married in Glacier National Park introduces a whole additional layer of logistical considerations!
Three Important Things to Know When Considering a Glacier National Park Wedding:
Photo: Elsa Eileen Photography
You need a permit to have a ceremony in the park!
You can learn more about that on their website. It’s a straightforward process with clear instructions, but it can take a while—and as demand is high, turnaround time is often slow. I fully trust that the park officials are doing their absolute best to serve the public on many fronts. You and your permit are just one of them.It’s a public park.
Even with a permit, your ceremony happens in a public space. That means hikers, tourists, and curious onlookers may be nearby—and they have every right to be. As an inclusive wedding officiant, I often encourage couples to embrace the moment: announce what’s happening to those nearby, and either welcome them as informal witnesses or kindly invite them to give space. Most folks are kind and respectful when they realize a wedding is unfolding.Bear spray works on bears and people too. Just kidding!
While it's important to have bear spray in the park, it is absolutely not for crowd control. I’ll have some with me, and I pledge to only use it if an actual bear shows up (which is rare, but we stay ready).
All joking aside—Glacier National Park is breathtaking. Mountain views, glacier-fed lakes, wildflower meadows, open sky, and an overwhelming sense of awe are all part of the package.
Photo: Elsa Eileen Photography
That said, there are many other amazing outdoor venues in the area too—including secret spots local vendors might only share once you’ve booked. Some couples choose to have their ceremony outside the park (which can simplify things like food and guest logistics) and then spend the day exploring the park for photos. You don’t need a permit for portraits, just for the actual ceremony.
Let’s look at some standout Glacier locations that couples frequently choose for elopements and vow exchanges:
Glacier National Park Ceremony Locations
Ryan Beach
A quiet shoreline along Lake McDonald, Ryan Beach is one of those lesser-known spots that feels like a secret. It’s accessible by a short trail off of Grist Road and the lake views are spectacular—especially at sunrise or sunset. If you're looking for an intimate ceremony with a serene atmosphere and fewer people, this is a beautiful option.
Photo: RJFPhotography
Sun Point
Located on the east side of the park on Saint Mary Lake, Sun Point offers sweeping views after a short trail to its rocky outcrop over the water. It's popular for good reason—the light is incredible and the vibe is expansive, and windy. Great for couples who want mountain-lake drama without a long hike.
Photo: Dina Remy Photography
Seven Mile Pullout (Sandy Point)
A roadside pullout with big views of Lake McDonald, Seven Mile is an underrated gem with a pebble beach for quick vows or private moments. The backdrop is all layered peaks, open sky and lake.
Photo: Elsa Eileen Photography
Ten Mile Pullout (Jackson Bay)
Just a little farther up the road from Seven Mile, on Going-to-the-Sun Road, this spot has similar grand views but catches slightly different light depending on time of day. It’s great for portraits or a tiny ceremony with a bit of space to breathe.
Bowman Lake
Remote, rugged, and absolutely stunning—Bowman Lake is accessible via Polebridge and a long stretch of gravel road. If you’re willing to make the trip, you’ll be rewarded with crystal-clear water, quiet surroundings, and that off-the-grid feeling. It's a spot for true nature lovers.
Photo: Of the Wolves
Pray Lake
Located in the Two Medicine area, this small lake is often overlooked—but it’s peaceful, beautiful, and very accessible. The backdrop includes mountains and quiet water, and it tends to feel more private than nearby Two Medicine Lake. You will likely see some Big Horn Sheep in this area if the season is right.
Many Glacier
One of the most iconic regions in the park. Between the mountains, lakes, alpine meadows and stunning hotel, it’s hard to take a bad photo here. That said, it’s a busy area—so early mornings or shoulder seasons are best if you’re hoping for a quieter moment.
Photo: Marianne West Photography
Lake McDonald Lodge Area
Classic Glacier vibes with lodge charm, historic architecture, and lake access all in one. The area near the dock is popular for ceremonies and portraits, and it’s an easy place to meet guests or keep things casual but scenic.
Photo: RJF Photography
Cut Bank Field
This lesser-known location is perfect for couples who want open skies, meadows, and that “middle of nowhere” feeling. There are few amenities nearby, but that’s part of the appeal—big nature, minimal interference.
Photo: Emma Kaylin Photography
Paradise Meadow (near Big Bend)
When the wildflowers are blooming, this spot truly lives up to its name. Best in mid to late summer, it’s ideal for barefoot vows, (bring shoes too), spontaneous joy, and couples who want to lean into nature's beauty without distraction.
What a great place! Consider having your Wedding at Glacier National Park!
Let’s Plan Your Glacier Elopement
If you’re dreaming of saying your vows with peaks behind you, lakes in front of you, and the wind in your hair, I’d love to help bring that to life. I’ve officiated weddings in just about every corner of this park and can help you navigate the permits, the logistics, and the magic.
👉 Contact me today or click the Book Me button to start planning your unforgettable Glacier adventure. Let’s co-create something wild, beautiful, and deeply you.
