Your Complete Guide to Mountain Elopements (Georgia, the Smokies + Beyond)

There’s something about the mountains that makes everything slow down. The air feels fresher, the light softer, the silence a little more sacred. Maybe that’s why so many couples choose to elope in the mountains—it’s not just about the view. It’s about the feeling that comes with standing on top of the world, saying “I do” with nothing but wind, trees, and your person.

Whether you’re hiking up to a hidden overlook or exchanging vows on the deck of a cozy Airbnb, a mountain elopement gives you space to breathe, connect, and be fully present.

I’ve photographed couples all over North Georgia, Western North Carolina, the Smokies and beyond—from easy walk-up overlooks to multi-hour hikes that end in pure, cinematic magic. So if you’re dreaming of a mountain elopement but aren’t sure where to start, this guide’s for you.

Why Elope in the Mountains?

A mountain elopement isn’t about ditching tradition—it’s about creating your own.

You get to decide what matters most. Maybe it’s privacy, adventure, or that golden sunset glow that feels like something out of a movie.

Here’s what I love most about mountain elopements:

• They’re flexible. You can hike at sunrise, have coffee mid-ceremony, or end the day with a private dinner.
• They’re private. The further you go, the fewer crowds you’ll see.
• They’re timeless. No arch or backdrop can compete with nature’s own version.

If you want an elopement that feels peaceful and intentional, the mountains are calling—and you should probably answer. (Just sayin’.)

Where to Elope in the Mountains

You don’t have to climb a summit to have a mountaintop wedding. In fact, some of the most beautiful locations in the South are incredibly accessible.

Here are a few of my favorite North Georgia and Western Carolina mountain elopement locations:

• Cloudland Canyon State Park — Epic overlooks and waterfalls. Some spots require a short hike; others are drive-up.
• Black Rock Mountain State Park — High elevation and quiet trails with gorgeous foggy mornings.
• Appalachian Trail Overlooks — Ideal for couples who want an adventure elopement vibe.
• The Blue Ridge Mountains — Endless ridges and secluded spots that glow at sunset.
• Airbnbs in Lookout Mountain, Blue Ridge, or Highlands — Perfect for private ceremonies, family dinners, or all-day celebrations.

Every couple’s needs are different, so part of my process is helping you find your spot. I like to think of it as a little matchmaking—pairing your personalities with a location that feels like it was waiting for you all along.

How to Choose the Perfect Mountain Location

Not every overlook or trail is created equal. Some face east (perfect for sunrise). Others catch that warm sunset glow.

That’s where working with someone who knows the area really helps.
I scout new spots constantly—sometimes boots on the trail, sometimes with my camera and a thermos of coffee at 6 a.m.—to make sure I can recommend locations that check every box: great light, privacy, and accessibility.

Here’s what to consider when choosing your mountain elopement spot:

• Accessibility: Do you want a quick walk-up or a hike with a view reward?
• Privacy: The longer or harder the trail, the fewer people around.
• Time of day: Sunrise = peaceful and private; sunset = golden and cinematic.
• Direction: I’ll help you find an overlook that actually faces the sun when it matters most.

How to Include Family in a Mountain Elopement

If the idea of eloping sounds amazing—but you still want your favorite people there—you’re not alone.

There are a few easy ways to include family while keeping the day intimate:

• Invite your immediate family for the ceremony, then plan an adventure session just for you afterward.
• Book a big Airbnb so everyone can stay together and celebrate.
• Stream your vows for guests who can’t travel.
• Host a dinner after your ceremony (I’ll even share my favorite local restaurants and private chefs).

There’s no right or wrong way to elope. Your day can be as connected or private as you want—it’s about making space for the people and moments that matter most.

How to Elope in the Mountains: Marriage Licenses + Permits – The Unromantic but Important Stuff

Let’s talk logistics for a sec (because even mountain vows deserve to be official).

Most couples who elope in the mountains choose to have a symbolic ceremony and handle the legal paperwork before or after their trip. It keeps the day stress-free and avoids courthouse hunting mid-adventure. But if you’d rather make it official on the spot, you can! Just plan to arrive a day or two early to grab your marriage license in town — and since I’m ordained, I can legally officiate your ceremony and take care of signing all the paperwork for you.

If you want your ceremony to be legally binding, here’s what you should know:

• Georgia + North Carolina: Apply for your license in person; no waiting period required.
• Tennessee: Same-day licenses are available for out-of-state couples.
• Smoky Mountains region: Some counties require witnesses, others don’t—always double-check.
• I’m ORDAINED! So most couples I document will choose to stop by the local courthouse a few days before their ceremony and then I can sign off as their officiant to make it officially-official!
  

If your dream spot is inside a state or national park, you may need a special use permit.
It’s usually a simple online form and a small fee ($50–200).

• Great Smoky Mountains NP requires both a ceremony + photo permit.
• Blue Ridge Parkway and Pisgah National Forest may only require one for photography.
• Cloudland Canyon State Park has an easy process through the ranger’s office.

Don’t worry—I help my couples navigate all of this. The goal is to spend your day soaking up the view, not stressing about forms.

What to Pack for a Mountain Elopement

The mountains are stunning, but they can also be unpredictable. Pack for comfort and photos:

• Hiking shoes or boots (and a backup pair)
• Layers—a shawl, jacket, or blanket for changing temps
• Snacks + water
• Headlamp for sunrise or sunset hikes
• Champagne or coffee for toasting
• Marriage license + rings
• Bug spray + tissues
• A small emergency kit (bobby pins, safety pins, wipes)

And if you forget something? I usually have extras in my hiking pack.

Your Mountain Elopement Can Be Anywhere

The mountains don’t have borders. If you’ve been dreaming of misty cliffs in Iceland, wildflower valleys in Colorado, fog-drenched forests in Washington, or seaside peaks in Acadia—you can elope there, too.

Mountain elopements aren’t defined by location; they’re defined by feeling. That sense of peace, adventure, and perspective you get when you’re surrounded by something bigger than you.

I’ve helped couples plan destination elopements across the U.S. and beyond, and the process is surprisingly similar—

• find a view that speaks to you
• understand the permit or travel logistics
• create a timeline that lets you actually enjoy it.

Whether you want to hike through Iceland’s black sand cliffs, chase golden hour in Colorado, or exchange vows where the mountains meet the ocean in Maine’s Acadia National Park, your mountain elopement can look like whatever adventure feels most like you.

Looking for more info about an Iceland elopement? I wrote a blog all about how to make it happen here!

When’s the Best Time to Elope in the Mountains?

You can elope year-round, but each season brings its own vibe:

• Spring: Waterfalls at full flow, bright greens, cooler temps.
• Summer: Full greenery, vibrant, but busier—go early or late for privacy.
• Fall: Warm tones and crisp air (book early—it’s the most popular).
• Winter: Quiet, peaceful, and sometimes snow-dusted perfection — especially at higher altitudes! 

Lighting-wise, sunrise and sunset are always your best bet. I’ll help you choose a location that faces the right direction so you don’t end up in shadow when the magic happens.

How to Have a Stress-Free Mountain Elopement

Here’s the secret: your elopement day doesn’t need to be packed with activities. It should feel like you.

A few ways to keep things easy:

1. Book your lodging for 2–3 nights. That gives you time to explore and rest.
2. Keep your timeline loose. Mountains have their own rhythm—embrace it.
3. Hire local vendors. They know the terrain, weather, and lighting conditions.
4. Build in downtime. Share a slow breakfast, take a nap, watch the fog lift.
5. Have a backup plan. If the weather changes, we’ll pivot—it always turns out beautifully.

Real Georgia Mountain Elopements

Some of my favorite days have happened high above the treeline:

Each one looked totally different, but every single one felt effortless.

Why Hire an Experienced Photographer for Your Mountain Elopement

You’re not just hiring someone to take photos—you’re hiring a guide who knows the terrain, the light, and the logistics.

I’ll help you:

• Find a location that fits your vibe + comfort level
• Choose the right time of day for photos
• Handle permits + timelines
• Discover hidden spots most people never see

Whether you’re dreaming of an accessible overlook, a cozy Airbnb ceremony, or a full hiking elopement, I’ll help you plan a day that feels easy, natural, and unforgettable.

P.S. head to this blog for my Airbnb elopement planning guide!

Let’s Plan Your Mountain Elopement

Whether it’s Cloudland Canyon, the Blue Ridge Mountains, or a hidden trail in the Smokies, your elopement deserves to feel like more than just a photo op—it should feel like you.

When you book with me, you don’t just get a photographer. You get a guide, a planner, and someone who’s already out there finding the next secret overlook you haven’t seen on Instagram yet.

Start Planning Your Mountain Elopement with me!