Eloping in Alaska: Table of Contents
Why Eloping in Alaska is The Perfect Choice
The Best Places to Elope in Alaska
Legal Requirements for Eloping in Alaska
When is The Best Time of Year to Elope in Alaska?
Meet Stef, Your Alaska Elopement Photographer
If you’ve stumbled across this blog, it likely means that you’re considering or already planning on eloping in Alaska. First of all, congratulations! Alaska is an unforgettable elopement destination, offering raw beauty, mountain views, and glacier adventures. If you’re looking for that once-in-a-lifetime experience, then keep reading, because I’m about to help you plan the best elopement in Alaska! From choosing the best locations, requirements, and so much more!
Why Eloping in Alaska is The Perfect Choice
If you’re dreaming of an intimate wedding that feels more like an adventure, then eloping in Alaska is the perfect choice for you. Maybe you’re considering several different locations and you’re trying to decide whether Alaska is THE ONE. Let me just say this. Imagine saying your “I do’s” with the backdrops of mountain vistas and secluded glaciers. Imagine hearing ice cracking in the distance-a reminder of the glaciers constant, slow movement beneath you.
Alaska is full of raw beauty and beautiful vast landscapes that really gives you that sense of peace. You simply cannot find this anywhere else. If you’re looking for an experience like no other, Alaska is the location you’ve been dreaming of!
The Best Places to Elope in Alaska
Looking for some epic locations in Alaska for your elopement? Alaska is FULL of gorgeous locations, from glaciers, mountains, and more, so let’s dive into a few. Keep in mind that over the years I’ve scouted dreamy locations. The locations listed below are beautiful locations that are more popular. If you’re looking for places that are even more secluded, let’s get in touch, because I’ll make sure to get you some incredible recommendations perfectly tailored to you as a couple!
Denali National Park: Eloping at North America’s Tallest Peak
Denali National Park is located a little over 4 hours north of Anchorage, Alaska. It sits on 6 million acres of wilderness and is just utterly beautiful. The great thing about Denali is that there are plenty of jaw-dropping locations for your elopement. Want to stay longer? You can even camp at Denali National Park and make it a fun elopement getaway!
Kenai Fjords National Park: A Winter Wonderland
Looking for majestic glaciers, fjords, rugged landscapes, and even marine wildlife such as sea lions and whales? Kenai Fjord’s National Park is a dreamy location in southcentral Alaska, near Seward. It’s only about 2.5 hours from Anchorage, making it a convenient location within reach of some of the bigger cities in Alaska.
Anchorage: Alaska Wilderness Meets Urban Convenience
If you’re looking for the best of the Alaska wilderness, yet still want close proximity to the urban life of Alaska, then Anchorage may be the best place to elope! Whether you want to elope somewhere in the city and then have a day adventure in the wilderness-the choice is yours!
Matanuska Glacier: Majestic Ice Glacier’s
Matanuska Glacier just happens to be one of the most accessible glaciers, and the largest in the U.S that can be reached by vehicle! It’s about 2 hours from Anchorage. If you’re looking the best places to elope in Alaska that won’t require a strenuous hike, I’d keep this location at the top of your list! It’s offers a 27-mile long river of ice that flows from the Chugach mountains to Glenn Highway.
Knik Glacier: A Hidden Glacier Gem
Just like Matanuska Glacier, Knik Glacier is also part of the glaciers in Mat-Su Valley. It offers a secluded yet jaw-dropping setting with pristine blue ice! You can even access this by helicopter, which is also a fun way to elope in Alaska! The glacier is vast and makes for an unforgettable location to exchange your vows. Check out Morgan and Maity’s ‘Alaska Helicopter Elopement at Knik Glacier‘ for all the inspiration on eloping here!
Hatcher Pass: Majestic Alpines and Rugged Peaks
Hatcher Pass is another stunning location if you’re eloping in Alaska. It’s located in the Talkeetna Mountains and offers breathtaking views with rolling hills, rugged peaks, and beautiful alpine meadows. It’s more remote and really gives you that sense of intimacy. If you’re looking for that magical backdrop that offers wildflowers in the summer and snow-covered mountains in the winter, Hatcher Pass is perfect!
Legal Requirements for Eloping in Alaska
In order to elope in Alaska, you will need a marriage license from the Alaska Bureau of Vital Statistics. It is very easy for out of state and international couples to elope in Alaska.
How to apply: Both partners need to appear in person at a local courthouse OR you can apply by mail. You must being a valid photo ID and pay the $60 fee.
Are there residency requirements? No, anyone can elope in Alaska, no matter where you are from!
Is there a waiting period? There’s a three-day waiting period before you can get your license. It is valid for 90 days thereafter.
Do I need an officiant? Yes, you will need a legal officiant to legally marry in Alaska! You will also need two witnesses. If you work with me as your Alaska elopement photographer, I’m happy to be one of your witnesses!
For more information on obtaining your Alaska marriage license, see the official website for Alaska Bureau of Vital Statistics.
When is The Best Time of Year For Eloping in Alaska?
The best time of year to elope in Alaska will depend on what kind of experience you are looking for! The most popular moths for elopements in Alaska are June to August. Let’s go over what each season has to offer and the pros and cons:
Summer (June – August) – Great if you’re looking for milder weather. Locations may be easier to access. Landscapes can be lush and wildflowers might be blooming and daylight hours are longer.
Fall (September – October) – Offers beautiful autumn colors in some areas and you may find fewer crowds. Weather may be unpredictable during the fall months.
Winter (November – March) – If you’re dreaming of a winter wonderland, winter is the season for you. You may also have a chance to see the Northern Lights! Temperatures are colder and some areas may have limited access.
Spring (April – May) – Greenery is starting to emerge and snow is melting. Summer is a popular time of year for elopements as it offers pleasant weather and accessibility. The weather can be unpredictable during this time!
FAQ’S About Eloping in Alaska:
Do you need a marriage license to elope in Alaska?
Yes, you will need a marriage license from Alaska Bureau of Vital Statistics.
Can a non resident get married in Alaska?
Yes, you do not need to be a resident of Alaska to elope here.
How many witnesses do you need to get married in Alaska?
You will need two witnesses to elope in Alaska. This can include your Alaska elopement photographer.
How fast can you get married in Alaska?
The waiting period to get married in Alaska is three days! So after you receive your marriage license, you will need to wait at least 3 days.
Do you need an officiant to get married in Alaska?
Yes, you will need an officiant. This person does not need to be a resident of Alaska. They just need to have a marriage commissioner certificate.
Alaska Elopement Packages
Eloping in Alaska and looking for Alaska elopement packages? I have two packages to choose from. Keep in mind, this is not just for your photos. I’m here to help with custom location scouting, timeline creation, permit assistance, vendor recommendations, and so much more! Below you’ll find my Alaska elopement packages.
FULL DAY COVERAGE – $5,000
Package includes:
- 8 hours of photography coverage (time for getting ready, your ceremony, and exploring around the location)
- Custom location scouting
- Timeline creation
- Permit assistance
- Vendor recommendations
- Online gallery of high resolution images
SUNRISE + SUNSET COVERAGE – $6,500
Package includes:
- 8-10 hours of photography coverage (full day and multi location exploration)
- Custom location scouting
- Timeline creation
- Permit assistance
- Vendor recommendations
- Online gallery of high resolution images
Meet Stef, Your Alaska Elopement Photographer
Hey, it’s Stef, hopefully your soon to be Alaska elopement photographer! I’m thrilled that you’re considering eloping in Alaska, and I hope that you’ve found this guide helpful in your planning! Alaska is such a stunning location. While I’m Colorado based, my bags stay packed and I’m ready to head back to Alaska to capture more elopements!
My goal is to create an unforgettable experience during your time with me. That’s why my packages are more than just photos. I’m here to help you plan and be by your side through it all! You can learn more about me here and be sure to check out my Alaska elopement page for more information as well. If I sound like the Alaska elopement photographer for you, then inquire with me. I can’t wait to hear from you!
