Five things to know before getting married In the Grand Teton National Park
Getting married in Grand Teton National Park is an unforgettable experience, but planning a ceremony in a national park comes with unique guidelines, timing considerations, and logistical details. Below are the five most important things couples should know when planning a wedding or elopement in the Tetons.
1) Wedding Permits Are Required
All wedding and commitment ceremonies in Grand Teton National Park require a Special Use Permit. Couples must submit an application outlining their ceremony size, preferred location, and timing, along with a $200 non-refundable fee.
Permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis and typically allow one hour total, including the ceremony and photos. Locations remain open to the public, and amenities are limited, so planning ahead is essential.
For a more detailed breakdown of the permit process and timelines, you can read their full guide here → Weddings and Commitment Ceremonies
2) Ceremony Locations Are Limited (and Regulated)
The park offers several designated locations for wedding ceremonies, each with specific group size limits and seasonal availability. Some of the most popular include:
Schwabacher Landing
Mormon Row (North and South)
Colter Bay Swim Beach
Glacier View Turnout
Mountain View Turnout
Snake River Overlook
For smaller, more intimate ceremonies, some couples choose locations just outside the park, such as the Wedding Tree in Bridger-Teton National Forest.
All locations require permits, and availability can change year to year.
You can view a full breakdown of ceremony locations and group sizes here →
Locations and sizes
3) What to Wear and What to Bring
While the scenery is refined and breathtaking, Grand Teton National Park is still a rugged outdoor environment.
Most couples should plan for:
Comfortable walking shoes in addition to ceremony shoes
Layers for changing mountain weather
A small emergency kit (fashion tape, hair pins, lip balm)
Water and light snacks, especially for longer photo timelines
A printed copy of the wedding permit
With thoughtful preparation, couples can stay comfortable, relaxed, and fully present throughout the day.
For a complete packing checklist tailored to Grand Teton weddings, click here →
What to Pack for a Grand Teton Wedding or Elopement (A Complete Checklist)
4) Celebration Options Are Simple by Design
National park weddings prioritize simplicity and preservation.
Small cakes or desserts are allowed if they are easy to transport and fully packed out
Champagne or celebratory drinks may be permitted in certain areas, with no items left unattended
Thrown items, décor, arches, amplified sound, and drones are not allowed
Many couples choose to enjoy a quiet toast after the ceremony and then plan a celebratory meal in Jackson, Teton Village, or at their lodging afterward.
I share more ideas for celebrating while staying park-compliant here →
Celebrating Your Wedding in Grand Teton National Park
5) A Realistic Photo Timeline Matters
Most wedding permits allow one hour total, which makes thoughtful planning especially important. Travel time, lighting, and walking distances all play a role in how the day flows.
Working with vendors who are experienced in Grand Teton National Park can make a significant difference in creating a calm, seamless experience and maximizing photo opportunities within park guidelines.
You can see a sample wedding photo timeline here →
A Sample 1-Hour Wedding Photo Timeline at Schwabacher Landing
