5 Things You Didn’t Think About for Your Glacier National Park Elopement

You’ve made the epic decision to skip the traditional wedding and elope in one of the most jaw-dropping places on earth—Glacier National Park. Good choice.

But even if you’ve done your research, planned your outfits, and hired your dream elopement photographer (recommendations below) and videographer (👋 hey, that's us)—there are a few things couples still get surprised by.

So we put together five things no one really tells you about eloping in Glacier National Park. Consider this your behind-the-scenes heads-up.

1. Drive Time – It’s a Trek (But So Worth It)

Most of the time, we’ll meet you in or around West Glacier before heading into the park together. Depending on where your ceremony is and where we’re filming, expect at least an hour (often more) of drive time—each way.

That means full tank of gas, maybe a snack or two, and plenty of margin for traffic, wildlife crossings, and the occasional "slow down" to soak in the views. The drive itself is part of the magic. (Check out a film with a POV from the car here)

2. No Service – Glacier = Dead Zone

You’re going off the grid. Just assume your phone is going to be completely useless inside the park. A few carriers might give you spotty service at the entrance, but it drops off fast. That means any communication—texts, meet-up locations, final timeline confirmations—needs to happen before you get in the car.

We recommend making those plans several hours ahead of time so there’s no confusion once you're off-grid. Pro tip: print or screenshot anything important. We do the same on our end so everyone stays in sync.

3. Dinner Plans – You’ll Be Starving (And Everything’s Closed)

In peak season, Glacier sunsets as late as 9:30pm—and that’s when we’re finishing shooting the best light. So by the time we wrap, pack up, and drive back, most restaurants will be closed.

Trust us: plan ahead. Bring food or hit a local spot earlier in the day. Our go-to? Grab a sandwich from Laurie’s Deli in Columbia Falls before heading in. Or, plan a chill dinner picnic in the car after we're done. Easy, intentional, and delicious.

4. The Right Elopement Mindset – Let Go and Lean In

You're getting married in one of the most stunning places God ever created—and that means embracing nature in all its glory.

Dresses will get dusty. Wind will do its thing. Weather may change three times in an hour. Your shoes might look a little roughed up by the end of it.

But this is what makes Glacier elopements so raw and beautiful. Come into the day with the mindset that things may not go perfectly—but that’s part of the adventure. We’ll be there capturing every authentic, wild, once-in-a-lifetime moment.

5. Timeline Padding – Build in Room to Breathe

There’s a lot going on—hiking, driving, adventuring, emotional moments, and probably a few wildlife sightings. One of the biggest things couples overlook? Leaving enough margin.

Build buffer time into your timeline. Let the day breathe. We’ll guide you through it all, making sure nothing feels rushed and that you have space to be in the moment.

Eloping in Glacier National Park isn’t just about a stunning backdrop—it’s about the experience. If you can let go of the idea of perfect and lean into the adventure, you’ll walk away with something unforgettable.

And don’t worry—we’ve got you. Whether you're wondering how to plan your timeline or what trail shoes to pack with your dress, we're here to help you through every part of your Montana elopement.

Ready to start planning your Glacier National Park Elopement?

Reach out today—we’d love to capture your story in the most cinematic way possible.

👉 Contact Us - LoveLife Creative Media

👉 Photographers We Highly Recommend - Carrie Ann Photograph // Marianne Wiest Photography