Alaska Elopements: ALL You Need to Plan, from Snow to Sea to Sky

Why elope in Alaska?

When you elope in Alaska, there’s something about this place that just feels different—in the best way. The landscapes stretch wide and wild, and the scale of it all so grand that you feel tiny. 

I’ve found being here challenges you to slow down, to look around, to breathe deeper, and, to understand: 

We are Mother Nature’s guests in this expanse.

To elope in Alaska isn’t about performing. Instead, it’s about creating space and time—for connection, for adventure, for a destination wedding that feels like you. Whether that means flying to a glacier by helicopter or sharing a quiet morning at a lodge with the people who matter most—it’s all possible here.

This isn’t luxury in the flashy sense. It’s thoughtful. Immersive. It’s planning with intention and trusting that the natural beauty of Alaska will take care of the rest.

For this reason, I have become absolutely obsessed with Alaska–thinking about it, talking about it, exploring it, and, evangelizing from the deepest part of my soul the life-changing experience of eloping here.

So, in this guide, I’ll walk you through what it really looks like to elope in Alaska—

• Where to go

• What to expect, and

• How to build an experience that’s deeply meaningful and fully your own…

Fair warning — there a lot of information. BUT, it is because I firmly believe that inspiration starts with details. So, bookmark this page. Pin It on Pinterest. Share it with a friend. Or, text it to yourself for later… But, keep coming back and digesting and exploring more, when you need, however you need to be inspired.

And if you have a question? Reach out. I’m here and always ready to talk Alaska adventure elopements and photography. I can’t wait to meet you.

-xo-Kate

… Let’s get started…

2. HOW TO ELOPE IN ALASKA: Legal & Planning Essentials

When it comes to planning an Alaska elopement, the legal side is actually more simple than most couples expect.  But, with legalities like this, there are still a few things to plan ahead on to ensure no challenges or surprises.

Here’s what you need to know:

Marriage License

You don’t need to be an Alaska resident to get married here. You’ll apply for your license through the Alaska Bureau of Vital Statistics. And, there’s a 3-business-day waiting period once it’s issued. So, plan to arrive with a little buffer before your ceremony if you plan to do it once you arrive.   

If you are a resident of another country, your finalized Alaska marriage certificate is likely to be accepted as valid. However, do your research in your home country. You’ll need to ensure you follow any documentation requirements they have to record your marriage abroad.

Picking Up Your Alaska Marriage License In Person

Getting Your Alaska Marriage License By Mail

PRO TIP:  Alaska is fantastic for destination weddings as they have an easy mail-in marriage license process. This allows you to complete the whole process remotely! 

Officiants & Witnesses

Alaska is flexible—you can bring your own officiant or even have a friend, family member perform your ceremony. (I can walk you through how to make that legal).  Some heli pilots and adventure guides are also officiants, so able to help.  

I  am also a certified, non-denominational officiant. This gives me ability to legally sign off on the license in Alaska to marry my couples. 

This is helpful if a non-ordained loved one or adventure guide leads you through a “ceremonial” exchange… I’ll take care of the final paperwork at the end. I am happy to offer this at no charge when you elope with me.

Outside of the officiant, you’ll need one witness to sign the license document. 

But if you’re planning something more private, don’t worry! I’ve helped my couples find discreet, easy ways to meet that requirement.

Permits for Locations–Where can we legally elope in Alaska?

If you’re eloping in a national park or other public lands in Alaska, a permit for the ceremony or photography may be needed. Some require advance notice or have limits on group size or setup. 

How much a permit costs can vary, from $50 to several hundred dollars. Even if there is a permit fee, expect it to be less costly than a traditional venue in most cases. And, the best part? Your fees help that park/natural area to bolster the funding used to protect & preserve our amazing spaces. So, no matter what, it’s a worthy cause.

Information on permits is often found online, but sometimes it can be easier to call.  But either way, plan ahead.  

Start applying for any permits as early as you can once you know your location, event date, AND, a solid estimate of guest count/group size.  

Visitor Services in our parks and federal lands are chronically understaffed, especially now. Don’t wait to find out what may be needed (if anything) and get the paperwork in motion. 

This is one of the reasons I take care of this permitting research and application management for my couples… So you can focus on the experience, not the red tape.

Timing, Travel & Weather

Alaska is seasonal in a way that matters. Roads close. Vendors/Activities/Lodging have limited hours, or, full closures.  Experiences and locations can be remote, and weather can shift.  Fast.

Travel can be complex. Car rental limitations. Road quality (and never ending construction, lol). Coordinating air travel options & water taxi schedules. How to pack luggage for backcountry flights, and so much more.

 All of this plays into when and how your Alaska wedding experience unfolds. 

I’ll help you build a wedding plan based on the time of year that works for your goals. Then… We’ll dial in an experience timeline that works with the seasonal weather, landscape, and the kind of adventure you want.

Finally, I’ll help you coordinate the on-the-ground logistics to help you get to the adventure so we can make and capture amazing memories!

In Sum? Eloping in Alaska isn’t complicated—but it does take care and thoughtfully planning ahead. I’ll guide you through the entire planning and logistics process, from choosing the right date to making sure your ceremony is both legal and fully aligned with your vision.

3. ALASKA ELOPEMENT PACKAGES: What’s Included

Every Soul & Sky wedding or elopement package I build and photograph is rooted in what I call adventure luxe—

If you’re dreaming of a destination wedding that goes deeper than the norm, my Alaska elopement packages are actually fully custom proposals. Each proposal is designed with Adventure Luxe as foundation, tailored specifically to your goals and vision, and, offering far more than a few hours of photos.

I offer concierge-style planning and immersive photography—because this isn’t just a wedding day. It’s a story you’ll live and remember, and Alaska is the perfect place to for you two to explore.

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What’s Included in Every Alaska Elopement Package

All of my Alaska wedding elopement packages begin at 1.5 days of adventure, and, tailored to your pace and priorities. Every couple receives:

• Custom adventure & wedding “itinerary” design & concierge planning support for access top locations, resources + experiences without you having to search
  
• Personalized location and lodging scouting based on season, access, and vibe
  
• Permit and vendor coordination (so you don’t have to chase paperwork or guess)
  
• Story-driven photography coverage across all parts of your experience
  
• On-the-ground coordination of vendors, logistics, and misc decor & details throughout the adventure
  
• No travel fees to Alaska—I meet you where your adventure begins
  
• Heirloom album consultation and complimentary design to build your first legacy piece
  
• Ongoing support after your wedding to help bring your memories to life through custom prints, wall art, or albums
  

The Adventure is in the Details – Optional add-ons

Depending on what matters most to you, I can help coordinate additional details and excursions to round out your Alaska destination elopement experience:

• Helicopter-accessed glacier landings
• Helicopter-accessed high alpine landings
• Float plane, ski plane, or other methods of backcountry access
• More days of storytelling coverage
• Private chef dinners or other elevated food/meal options
•  Remote adventure luxe stays and luxury lodge experiences
• Wildlife viewing 
• Blue pool paddleboarding or pack rafting, horseback riding, hiking, UTV rides, and other guided or unguided experienced-based activities
• Slow travel, exploring by train
• Styled & decor elements (minimal or refined, always place-inspired)
• And SO MANY more options…
  

These add-ons aren’t about excess—they’re about intention and comfort. A quiet toast with your partner in a cedar hot tub… A beautiful & delicious plated wedding meal.. Or, an evening under twinkle lights in a backcountry yurt… These are the types of moments we’ll shape together.

Micro Weddings & the Treasured Few

For couples looking for an elopement package to plan a micro wedding in Alaska, I can help you design an experience for up to ~20 guests. We’ll honor both the intimacy of your community and the beauty and uniqueness of this destination you’ve chosen in your adventures. 

Yes, we plan for plenty of time for ceremony, shared adventures and meaningful connection with your people.

But, as I help you bring your elopement wedding ideas to life, we unapologetically create and protect private space to adventure and celebrate with just the two of you.

Why? 

Especially when you’re planning an intimate wedding in a destination like Alaska, your experience can’t about rushing from one thing to the next.

It’s about slowing down, and, being fully present in all pieces of your wedding story.

So, structuring your Alaska elopement package to create a multi-day guest-inclusive destination experience is a beautiful idea. Doing so is honoring that YES, this is your wedding and your experience, but, it is a story and celebration you want to share with your most treasured few.

When the elopement package we build covers multiple days of celebration, neither element (family time, nor, your private time) has to trump the other unless you chose for it to do so.

Guest Factors – Travel Variables

PRO TIP: In destination wedding, your guests’ experiences become YOUR experiences. And in that, their stresses, can quickly become yours. So, as you start to plan, begin with the very valid fact in mind:

Travel to/within Alaska for a destination wedding can feel daunting to some of your guests, for any number of reasons.

So, to take pressure off, I offer optional guest travel and logistics support as a tailored add-on to your Alaska elopement package. From 1-on-1 travel guidance to packing lists and excursion ideas, I can help your guests feel prepared—keeping you out of every detail.

We’ll customize the level of support based on your group, so your treasured few feel empowered and excited. (And, you field fewer calls about rental cars and weather gear.)

Everything we plan for your destination wedding in Alaska is done with intention.

Guest Factors in your Package

If tackling on your own, here are a few thoughts on guest logistics…. These can impact what you book as part of your destination elopement wedding package in Alaska:

• Share dates & event timing and location info as early as possible. Announce any RSVP deadlines at the same time–state (and then remind) that they are hard cut-offs (if that is the case)
• Communicate clearly on any activities and special gear that may be needed (especially if they need to bring/book on their own).
• Clearly outline and share details on guest responsibility for arranging/paying for ground logistics. Example: hotels/lodges, food, rental cars, etc before and after the wedding, AND, within the days of wedding experience.
• Give clear wardrobe guidance, especially if the crew is adventuring as part of your wedding. For example, practical, closed-toed shoes suitable for rough terrain, dressing warm/in layers, bringing raincoats, etc.
• Plan ahead–Food: If anyone in your group has dietary restrictions or special preferences (eg: non-alchoholic beers or “spirits”) alert your lodge and your caterer (and/or wedding planner) as applicable.
• Plan ahead–Shop at Arrival: Anchorage, Juneau, and Fairbanks, are the best options for provisioning food, gear etc. If flying into to these hubs, have guests get their food/snacks, gear, etc before leaving town. If not, you’ll be at the mercy of whatever you find in the outlying areas.

Not All Alaska Elopement Packages Are Built Alike

It is common to see photographers in Alaska offer short coverage, or, fixed elopement packages with pre-designed photo timelines or pre-selected adventures.

If that doesn’t get you the unique elope in Alaska experience you envision in your soul, I understand.

…That tug…

…That nagging idea…

…That “I wonder if we could…” whisper…

THOSE feelings are why what I offer in my luxury Alaska elopement packages is different.

When you choose to elope with me at Soul & Sky, your experience includes expert concierge elopement & adventure planning and award-winning storytelling photography in one. 

So, bring your “wild” idea or hope for how you want to elope in Alaska!

I will dive deep into my know-how, network of experts and adventure friends and we’ll find a way to bring it to life.

This means you’re not juggling, trying to find multiple vendors who can do something “unusual,” or, trying to coordinate logistics yourself. (Really, how DO YOU carry a cake on a helicopter?!?)

I support you from:

• the first call to hear every hope or wish you have..
• to wispy ideas taking shape and becoming real…
• to providing the on-ground, story-telling, experience-driven photography and onsite coordination…
• all the way through until your heirloom album and final pieces of wall art with your images arrive home to you. 

We are a team. 

So as you’re comparing Alaska elopement photographers or Alaska destination wedding packages, be sure to look closely at what’s included. Planning, scouting, permits, incuded travel to/within Alaska, vendor support, heirloom products—it’s rarely apples to apples.

If you’re ready to start building your own Alaska wedding elopement package, I’d love to hear more. 

Not sure yet what you want to do when you elope in Alaska?  PERFECT. 

Learn more about how I work on the elopement packages page. — OR — Bring your glimmer of an idea, wish, or secret hope and introduce yourself here to start brainstorming.  

Don’t wait to reach out. The best adventure weddings are crafted when you’re not exactly sure what you want or how it could even happen. 

Calls like this (with couples just like you) are some that I love the most.  I can’t wait to “meet” you!

4. WHEN TO ELOPE IN ALASKA: Seasons & Considerations

There’s no single best time to elope in Alaska—but there are seasons that align better depending on your goals. Whether you’re hoping for golden light, snow-dusted peaks, or just the fewest logistical curveballs, here’s what to consider.

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Spring (April–May): Shoulder Season & Snowmelt

Spring in Alaska is a time of transitions, and what it looks can be different depending on where you are eloping. 

April can still give winter vibes, especially in the mountains.  May can often be when you see the first signs of green. 

During the spring, yes, trails are starting to open, but be aware and prepared. Snow/ice can hang out at higher elevations.  Trekking poles and/or micro-spikes for your hiking boots will make your life easier!

And, Spring in Alaska? 

There is a good likelihood it could be wet and/or muddy, and that’s part of the charm!  This– and seasonal rains later in the year– are why you will see XtraTuf boots as daily attire for Alaska locals.  

(Pro tip:  if you’re inspired by the idea they do make fun and cute, and, more “style-oriented” options.)

May also marks the start of tourist season. So, some lodges and operators begin to open back up—though access can still be limited early in the month. Rain is more frequent during this time, especially in coastal zones like Seward.

Best for: quieter locations, glacier landings, cozy lodges with snowy views, and couples who want to avoid the summer rush but still get dynamic scenery when they elope in Alaska.

Summer (June–August): Long Days & High Access

Summer is Alaska’s most popular travel season. Trails are open, boats, and flight and heli tours are running. And, you’ll have up to 20 hours of usable daylight in some regions. AMAZING. So, this is the most common time to elope in Alaska.

Early summer brings wildflowers and lingering snowcaps still at some elevations. Late summer has deep greens and often more stable weather.

Because it’s peak season, some places may feel busier—but I’ll help you choose private lodging, alternative trailheads, or off-peak times to keep things grounded and intimate.

Planning a summer Alaska destination wedding with guests? Reach out early—ideally 12–18 months ahead—so we can secure the best options for your vision.

Best for: possible wildflowers, hiking, water access, travel through mountain passes/areas (eg Hatcher Pass), float plane/ bush plane/heli landings, glacier “blue pools”,  and multi-day experiences with guests.

Fall (September): Color, Calm & First Frost

Fall moves fast in Alaska—but it’s beautiful while it lasts. 

By early to mid-September, tundra plants turn vibrant red and gold, and crowds start to thin. Cooler temps start creeping in, but, beautiful sunrises and sunsets can return!

It can be a bit more rainy during this time, and, some higher-elevation areas close or become less accessible due to early snow.

This is a great time for elopements at beautiful lodges or remote properties, when you want a balance of access and stillness. 

Also important: Tourist season in Alaska runs roughly May 1st through Labor Day. Outside of this window, some lodges, tour providers, and small towns close up or reduce operations. 

For example, activities like the Alaska Railway and some backcountry adventure luxe lodging close for the season.

If you’re dreaming of a specific type of experience when you elope in Alaska, planning early (and wisely) matters.

Best for: foliage, cozy attire, fewer tourists, and off-peak travel perks.  Possible glimmers of aurora in some locations. And, grab a bucket and look for the distinctive red fall foliage of wild blueberry bushes as you explore—it is an absolute treat.   

Winter (October–March): Northern Lights & Quiet Luxury

Winter in Alaska is something special.  

Yes, it is cold. BUT… That cold brings its own type of crisp, bright, heightened-in-all-senses type of experience.  You’ve never seen stars sparkle until you’ve seen them under cold, cold skies. 

In short? A winter Alaska elopement makes you feel alive.

Snow is abundant, and it provides a beautiful muffled silence across many landscapes.   If you want an elopement adventure that feels slow, moody, and deeply intimate, a winter elopement in Alaska delivers. 

And, if you’re lucky with timing and conditions, the Aurora Borealis (aka Northern Lights) can make an appearance. Talk about a wedding of a lifetime!

That said, winter is arguably the most logistically complex season to elope in Alaska. 

Clothing is a consideration—good gear (coats, boots, gloves, etc) will enhance your experience. I can help with guidance on types clothing and layering to help you stay warm in your formal wedding attire, when just relaxing, and in motion on an excursion.   

There are vendors (lodging, heli operations, etc) who offer year-round operations. (Alaska elopements are beautiful in ALL seasons!)  But, plan ahead as many vendors do close or operate on reduced schedules. 

Light is limited (as little as 4–6 usable hours in some regions), and travel can be affected by snow or ice. But if you’re up for it, the rewards are enormous.

Pro Tip: Grabbed by the idea of truly chasing the Aurora Borealis during your winter elopement? Let’s talk.
As part of the concierge planning I offer, I’ll connect us with a renown Aurora scientist to help us choose the best time and place. While we can’t guarantee a show, we plan thoughtfully to give you the best possible chance of vows under the lights—captured forever in your images.

Best for: private lodge stays, aurora chasing, snow-covered portraits, unique outdoor activities, a love for snuggling in, lots of candles and twinkle lights, and intentionally paced days.

A Note on Rain & Regional Differences

Coastal areas— like  Seward, Valdez, and Juneau—can see a notable uptick in rain frequency and amounts  in August and September. 

October can also see more rain across the state, especially on the coast.  That can start turning to snow in some areas inland and especially at higher elevations. 

It’s not a dealbreaker when planning your destination elopement wedding. But, it is a point to consider when choosing your where in Alaska to elope, follow on with a luxury vacation, and the backup options you’ll want to plan for both. 

So, if this is the best timing for you, I’ll help you choose both the place and time that best match your vision.

5. ALASKA ELOPEMENT TIMELINE & Planning Considerations

Book More Time– 1.5+ Days

It’s common to see photographers offering Alaska elopement packages 2, 4, or 8-hour blocks. But the kind of immersive, “we’re really doing this” experience I offer takes more time—and that’s exactly why it feels so unforgettable.

I only offer 1.5 day or longer elopement and intimate wedding photography coverage in my Alaska (and worldwide) elopement package proposals…  Why?  

Because I believe unapologetically that this kind of immersive, thoughtful experience takes time.

It takes room to breathe, to connect, and to actually feel all the moments of your elopement.  

And that ease that results from being relaxed, happy, and in the moment allows me to capture beautiful, natural images that show you two, being yourselves – together.  

Ultimately, you’ve been planning this celebration for likely a long time–so, why would you rush through it?

With a 1.5 day or longer elopement timeline, you can:

• Enjoy luxury lodging without rushing out the door
  
• Schedule time for adventure and quiet moments
  
• Build in intentional connection time with guests, but, also create and protect space for just you two surrounding the family elements.
  

 And with this 1.5+ day wedding timeline, you have the benefit of time to get used to being with the camera (the first hour, yes, will feel weird!) as we go explore, walk, snuggle, play.   

The time together is not a photoshoot. There is no a formula of stiff and forced poses to rattle through as a shot list…  Instead, it’s an adventure where you two moving and experiencing is the focus and the images tell that story.

So don’t worry, it’s NOT about being “on” the whole time.

 It’s about designing an experience that reflects movement, connection and beauty.   Then, letting that unfold in a way that feels effortless.

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When should you start planning?

Ideally, 9–15 months in advance. The unique, boutique lodging and top supporting vendors to help you elope in Alaska book early, and permits take time. 

If you are planning a destination wedding in Alaska, I recommend a “save the date” at 12 months out to your guests.  It is a once-in-a-lifetime trip for many, so they may want to add vacation to allow for their own adventures.  So, the earlier they can start planning, they more content they may feel.  

So, whether you’re dreaming of eloping on a glacier by helicopter, or a long weekend at a remote luxury lodge with your closest people, reaching out early gives us more room to make it extraordinary.

How long does it take to plan an elopement in Alaska?

The sweet spot is usually 9–15 months out. But I’ve helped couples plan beautiful, immersive experiences with much less time. 

What matters most is knowing your priorities:

• The experience vibe or scenery you want
• Just the two of you vs. you+ guests, and
• When your preferred timing is to elope in Alaska

Some details (like guided excursions, or small, boutique lodges or adventure luxe lodging) book out early. So, more time gives us more freedom. But if you’re working on a short timeline, still reach out!  

I’ll help by bringing ideas of wonderful options that are possible for your vision and goals—and still beautiful and fun.  

And, are you flexible or open to new ideas for the what/where of how you want to elope in Alaska?  If yes, you’ll be amazed at how many places and spaces available to you, even on a short timeline. 

6. BEST PLACES TO ELOPE in Alaska: From Glaciers to Forests

One of the most exciting parts of planning an Alaska elopement is choosing where it all happens.

And this isn’t about picking a venue… It’s about choosing a landscape that shapes your entire experience.

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Below, I’ve broken down some of the best places to elope in Alaska, based on scenery, access, and the kind of story they help you tell. 

This list is intentionally specific, with named features and hidden gems—because inspiration starts with details.  In a state that has:

…the list of locations for eloping with guests or in a private adventure is endless, which, can be inspiring but overwhelming. So, launch your dreaming here, with these real places I’ve pre-scouted as ideas to share with my own clients, photographed on my personal & elopement travels, or, built full elopements around. 

This isn’t a generic top 10 list—

If it’s on this list, it has something unforgettable to offer for an adventure luxe wedding location (or, a luxury Alaska honeymoon vacation to round out your travel!). 

 I’d be honored to help you create your dream Alaska elopement or intimate wedding in ANY of these places

Glacier Options for Alaska Elopements

If you’re dreaming of a surreal, otherworldly setting—this is it.

Alaska’s glaciers are alive. They shift. They creak. The white and blue ice and the rocky moraine beneath your feet can be hundreds (sometimes thousands) of years old. 

The sounds of the water moving on and through the ice is so subtle-but constantly present. I always feel it’s the heartbeat of the glacier…. 

And, the place where you say your vows may never been visited before… And, the constant movement and changing of the glacier means that same spot may never look or feel the same again.  THAT is part of the magic of a glacier wedding location in Alaska.

Places to explore for Alaska glacier weddings:

• Knik Glacier – Arguably one of the most photogenic and accessible heli-access glaciers. Great for short landings or multi-hour, multi-site sessions.
  • Want to see the ice AND the alpine options of the Knik?  See this 2-day Hatchers Pass/Knik Glacier elopement
• Matanuska Glacier – The only road-access glacier in the state. And, as a bonus, it allows guided access by foot. Pair your glacier vows with a stay at at MICA Glacier Glamping or Alpenglow Luxury Glamping.
  • See more from this real Matanuska glacier glamping elopement
• Godwin Glacier (Seward) – Remote, wild, and on-glacier dogsledding!  Intrigued?  I can help coordinate a dogsledding vows ceremony on the glacier, accessed via a helicopter adventure.
  • See what’s possible with this Dogsled & Iceberg Lake Alaska elopement  
• Root Glacier in Wrangell-St. Elias – Root Glacier is accessible by foot from McCarthy with a guided glacier trek.  It’s perfect for those who want to truly experience backcountry adventure!
  • Other glaciers across Wrangell-St. Elias National Park may be accessible by air taxi from McCarthy or by custom flight charter. It’s ideal for those who want total solitude, or, don’t prefer to hike to the adventure.
• Ruth Glacier (Denali region) – Tucked deep in the Alaska Range, Ruth Glacier is ideal for couples wanting intimacy and epic granduer. The Great Gorge (the glacier’s home) is a jaw-dropper. It’s nearly two vertical miles from the glacier’s base to the mountaintops.
  • Landings are only accessible by ski plane—and those planes typically hold more people than helicopters or bush planes. That makes it one of the few glacier locations that works well for small groups, without a major jump in cost. A great fit for guest-inclusive elopements.
  • Plus, nearby Talkeetna offers lodging, great food, and adventure access.

Ready for more?

Want more details on where or how to do a heli-accessed glacier wedding?

I’m building a detailed Alaska glacier elopement comparison guide, where we’ll dive into the best ice-focused spots for ceremony access, transportation options, scenery, and complementing experiences for your adventure luxe destination elopement in Alaska!  Sign up to get notified when the article is published. 

Looking for information now? Reach out!  I’m excited to help you get started with options based on your timeline and priorities.

National Parks: Wild, Iconic, and Protected

Yes, you can elope in a national park in Alaska, and, there are lots of options to choose from!  As with any other US national park elopement, you’ll just need to plan ahead.

A special note– the logistics of eloping in places as remote as some of these national parks require experienced planning and trusted vendor coordination to bring luxury, adventure and safety all together. If this level of wild calls to you as THE WAY for you to elope in Alaska, I’ll help you get there—the right way.

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Wrangell-St. Elias National Park – (McCarthy area)-

Largest national park in the U.S., with fly-in access to backcountry glaciers, historical mines, and alpine terrain.

This remote beauty gives you “Front country” and backcountry lodging options, massive glacier fields, deep-in-the-wilderness lodges, epic alpine views, and fly-in ceremony spots. 

Wrangell is great spot for additional activities and excursions for your destination elopement that can create that perfect “Only in Alaska” elopement experience.  BUT, the park and primary access point into it are remote and there are a number of logistical factors I can help you consider.  

First up? 

We’ll explore your elopement goals and use to decide whether you:

1. Drive in on the famous McCarthy Road
2. Fly to your home base in McCarthy, or
3. Arrange flights to a backcountry lodge experience to launch into your perfect place to elope in Alaska.  

Eloping at this Alaska National Park is one where the journey is very much part of the destination and experience! 

Kenai Fjords National Park – (Seward Area)-

Waterfalls, fjords, tidewater glaciers. A perfect spot for boat-access ceremonies accessed using a water taxi or boat charter.

Launch from Seward. The city gives you a variety of more standard lodging options. Or? Choose adventure luxe and immerse yourself in the beauty of the backcountry, and, with unique ceremony options available right from where you’re staying. See this inspiration for an intimate wedding at Shearwater Cove or, an adventurous wedding location and experience near the Park.

Lake Clark National Park –

Remote, but still actually pretty logistically manageable!  The park is accessed via fly-in options only. With that, it sees less visitation than other National Parks in Alaska, and, other natural areas this (relatively) close to Anchorage.

Float or bush (wheeled) plane flight options leave right from Anchorage area, and are a relatively quick flight, depending on your target location in the park. 

A favorite for couples who want solitude, to immerse in the world famous bear viewing, enjoy amazing hikes, or, to experience kayaking/rafting/pack rating on a wild river when they elope in Alaska. 

Also a great option if you want water-focused activities like sailing or fishing, but, without being on the coast.  Wild and beautiful, whether for your elopement, or, a luxury Alaska vacation/honeymoon afterwards!

Denali National Park –

Restricted access due to park conservation rules.  And, park busses are the only way to travel the (long!) main road during tourist season. As a result, the park itself can offer fewer off-the-beaten-path options than people expect.

Eloping here can be logistically tricky. I would recommend exploring nearby Denali State Park or launching from Talkeetna. These can offer good “work-around” options with fewer restrictions on the places you can elope.

PRO TIP: Denali, the mountain, was renamed by Executive Order in January, 2025 by Trump. However, the change is not likely to be widely recognized by the outdoor, local Alaska, and most national communities. (Why? A quick read on McKinley’s troubling colonial history, and, how it was named after him help explain the rightful sentiment.)

So, for your elopement & travel planning purposes, know that the National Park that encompasses the mountain and normal everyday conversational reference will continue to be “Denali.” This is the peak’s mostly widely recognized traditional name, and comes from the Alaska Native Koyukon Athabascan language.

Gates of the Arctic National Park –

No roads. Untouched by trails. No buildings. Just vast wilderness above the Arctic Circle, accessible only by air taxi. So, this lack of “infrastructure” in the park means that even for a day trip elopement, you’ll need to explore guided excursion options.

But, with mountain lakes, wild rivers, and eye-popping alpine views, the logistical factors can very well be worth it for one of the most unique places to elope in Alaska.  

In short?  If you want to feel like you’re the only people on Earth, Gates of the Arctic is one of the best spots to elope in Alaska.

Anchorage-Accessible Destinations (Perfect with Guests)

Planning a destination wedding with a small group or your “treasured few”? 

As you start planning, destination wedding locations in Alaska can quickly feel limiting. And if you’re hoping to elope in a way that’s centered on nature, it’s easy to get funneled into “traditional” feeling venues that just don’t fit.

Enter the Anchorage zone of the state! 

These locations are near to the biggest city in Alaska (and, the convenience of that major airport!).

AND, despite the location perk, they offer amazing scenery plus easier logistics like more group lodging options and shorter travel distances required. 

So, by looking for a wedding venue near to Anchorage, you’ll find great places to have an elopement wedding, but, without losing the Alaska classic experience.

Beauty + Convenience:

Here are a few of the options I can help you build your adventures around:

• Girdwood – Home to Alyeska Resort, a renown ski resort that features fine dining, mountain views, spa services, and a ski tram.
  • Girdwood is a favorite for couples hosting guests who want hotel-level comfort year-round, plus easy access to alpine trails, big mountain views, and even winter sports.
  • The city is also fairly central, so offers good day trip access to a number of different views, parks, and destination cities. Perfect for your and your guests post-wedding adventures!
  • It’s also a great base for a glacier wedding, with helicopter access to Knik Glacier from this “south” side of the Chugach Mountains. That makes it perfect for a backcountry ceremony with guests or a private adventure day just for the two of you before or after the main event.
  • There’s also a wide range of short-term rentals and VRBOs nearby—great for hosting your people in one big, modern, cabin-style home.
    • PRO TIP: Always read the fine print before booking a rental if you’re planning to host part of your event there—even something like a group dinner. Airbnb tends to prohibit events, but Vrbo rules can be more flexible. When in doubt, message the host and ask what’s allowed.
      
• Hatcher Pass – Just 90 minutes from Anchorage, it is a good day-trip from lodging options on the upper outskirts of the city.
  • With various options of location for intimate wedding groups or private elopements, each offers various levels of hiking/walking, or, ways to access. 
  • Whether you elope in Hatcher Pass, or, pass through as part of a luxury Alaska vacation, you’ll find it perfect in summer for hiking and fall for color. 
  • In addition to great  hiking and beautiful scenic drives through Hatcher Pass, there are fun, adventure excursions available here year round.  For example, UTV driving in the summer, fresh blueberry picking in the Fall, Snowmachine tours and cross country skiing in Winter.   See this fall elopement in Hatcher Pass & beyond! 
  • Note that – excluding some sections near entrances to the Pass – the road over the Pass closes seasonally, usually September through early-mid July, though reopening timelines are snow dependent.   
  • PRO TIP: Hatcher Pass road is dirt. It can vary in condition, and has some narrow, high, and bumpy sections if you intend to explore/cross over the upper reaches. Note: some car rentals don’t allow you to drive the Pass (and, places like McCarthy Road).
    • So if you know it is a target destination, plan ahead. Check with your rental agency to ensure you can, or, to get proper pre-approvals. This is why as part of my concierge support for my clients, I cab connnect to vendors in my network who allow dirt road access.

• Matanuska Glacier & Glacier View – Combine adventure with comfort. Lodging includes glamping, cabins, and cozy B&Bs—all within a few hours drive of Anchorage.  
  • Layer in wonderful adventure options with glacier trekking, hiking, or a heli tour with glacier and alpine landings, and you (and your treasured few!) can experience some of the best places to elope in Alaska!    
  • See what it could be like to elope (or, excursion as part of your luxury Alaska vacation!) at this gem of a spot

Cruise Ship Friendly Locations to Elope in Alaska

For couples who plan to elope in Alaska as part of their cruise itinerary.  

PRO TIP:  You will want to work with your photographer or excursion vendor to organize on-shore experiences as private for your elopement or wedding portrait adventure session.  

Joining a standard excursion group with 10-20+ strangers will not give you the privacy nor the personal touch experience you deserve on your wedding day.  (And in some instances, professional photography in a standard group excursion may not be allowed.)

• Juneau – Mendenhall Glacier, Mount Roberts Tram, and forested trails like Perseverance Trail make for easy access and diverse backdrops. 
  • Given how busy the Juneau port is, the area is definitely “cruise excursion” ready.  This means vendors are ready to activate your elopement experience quickly to get you out, to your beautiful Alaska wedding location, married, and, back to port on time.  
    
• Sitka – One of Southeast’s most beautiful towns. Historic, walkable, with water wedding locations. Bonus? You’ll find lush, temperate rainforest backdrops for elopements that make people say, “Wait, you were in Alaska?!”
  
• Seward – A port with quick access to fjords, glaciers, heli flights, dogsledding, and boat charters.  Perfect for an Alaskan-style elopement!
  
• On-Ship Elopement Options – Some cruise lines will offer wedding ceremony experiences aboard the ship. This is an interesting option to (kind of? lol) elope “in” Alaska.  The logistics of those can vary significantly by cruise line and your country of citizenship. So, talk with your cruise agent or customer services for your cruise line for details.
  • And, if you opt for an on-ship ceremony option, you can definitely still don your formal wedding attire, and have a wonderful adventure session during a port day. This allows you to have beautiful, “only in Alaska!” style wedding portraits, but, with fewer variables to manage during your limited time on shore.   Note the PRO TIP above–that will still apply in this scenario!

Cruise Ship Elopement Timelines

Heads Up—the quick in and out timing of a cruise port elopement is the perfect choice for some couples. However, it doesn’t work well with my structure here at Soul & Sky Weddings of fully immersed, unhurried experiences. (See Section 5 above on elopement timelines!)  

If you decide a cruise elopement is best, you’ll find other great Alaska elopement photographers that will be a wonderful fit.

 And, if you decide as you are planning that you’d like a more immersive experience, reach out!    I would be excited to help you build your elopement in true Alaska style. We can plan for it to take place before or after your cruise, no matter which port you’ll be at. 

But, rest assured….  No matter what wedding location and style you pick, it will be amazing!  It is Alaska after all!

Water-Focused Elopement Destinations

For couples drawn to coastlines, lakes, and tidewater drama.

• Aialik Bay & Holgate Arm (Kenai Fjords/Seward) – Accessible via water taxi or boat tour. Tidewater glaciers meet fjord cliffs. Amazing for elopements paired with kayak adventures or boat charters. Maybe an adventure luxe celebration at a public-use cabin, nestled in the back country?  
  • No matter what vibe you choose for your ceremony and adventures, you can launch from lodging in Seward, or, from adventure luxe backcountry lodging option nearby as well. 
    
• Kachemak Bay (Homer area) – Artistic, low-key, and deeply beautiful with a stunning combo of beach, alpine, and off-grid cabins.  Backcountry lodge options like Between Beaches offer ceremony spots with views of the ocean on both sides.
  
• Eklutna Lake (Chugach Mountains) – Easily accessible but under-the-radar. Quiet, glacial lake with deeply forested lakeshores, and big mountain backdrops with glacier views.
  • Lodging options of all types can be found in this area, and additional adventure options abound!    This makes Eklunta a great spot for an intimate destination wedding in Alaska with guests.
    
• Nugget Falls & Mendenhall Glacier (Juneau) – One of the most iconic ceremony backdrops in Southeast Alaska. Accessible by car, with options for short hikes or scenic overlooks, this waterfall and glacier combo, is easily accessible –but– not lacking for dramatic visual impact!
  • This makes it perfect for short timelines who are using their cruise port as their launch pad to elope in Alaska.

Mountain Views & High Alpine Drama

For bold views, tundra hikes, and that expansive “top of the world” feeling.

• Hatcher Pass (Talkeetna Mountains) – A favorite for its green rolling ridges in summer and golden alpine tones in fall. Great for hiking-access ceremonies or scenic overlooks near Independence Mine.
  
• Kesugi Ridge Trail (Denali State Park) – Sweeping alpine and Denali views (when the weather cooperates!) without the permitting restrictions of the national park. Amazing fall colors and sunrise potential.
  
• Thompson Pass (Valdez) – Craggy peaks surround deep valleys and alpine bowls. The Pass is known for its world class snow, arriving as early as September. 
  • Excellent for heli access for flight and glacier landings out of Valdez, and, superb winter access for snowmachine tours, luxe heli-skiing, and more.
• Glacier View (Matanuska Glacier area) – Easily combines epic mountain vistas and glacier access. Lodging, excursions, and heli tour options nearby.
  
• Chugach Mountains (Knik Glacier region) – The surprise bonus when you elope at Knik Glacier? The mountains. The snowy peaks of the Chugach are just as jaw-dropping as the glacier itself for a place to elope in Alaska. I promise.
  • Whether you’re hiking a ridgeline above the valley or landing by heli at a high alpine lake in vista that makes you feel absolutely tiny, this range delivers serious drama.
  • You can access flights into Knik Glacier from either Girdwood or Palmer, both of which offer great lodging and post-elopement food options—making this region ideal for a multi-day destination elopement experience in Alaska, with or without guests.
• Alaska Range (Denali region) – Everyone knows Denali, but the mountain drama around it is just as unforgettable.
  • For a fresh perspective on the wildness surrounding The Tall One, I can help coordinate a helicopter for you to land high in the Alaska Range… Outside the park boundaries, where landings are possible and the views are still jaw-dropping.
  • From the Great Gorge of Ruth Glacier to wide-open ridgelines above alpine cirques, this area offers some of the most cinematic elopement settings in the state. You won’t regret it.
• Wrangell-St. Elias & Gates of the Arctic National Parks– Worth noting: some of Alaska’s most epic mountain vistas live inside these remote national parks. The scale in Wrangell-St. Elias is hard to describe—massive peaks, ancient icefields. Immersive luxury awaits at a fly-in lodge like Ultima Thule, tucked deep in the wilds. And Gates of the Arctic? It’s raw, untouched wilderness above the Arctic Circle—no roads, no trails, just endless alpine ridge lines and total solitude.
  • That said, as mentioned in Section 6 on national parks, the logistics of eloping in places this remote require experienced planning and trusted vendor coordination to bring luxury, adventure and safety all together. If this level of wild calls to you, I’ll help you get there—the right way.
    

Winter Elopement Locations

If you’re dreaming of snow, cozy spaces, and Aurora Borealis potential.

• Hatcher Pass Lodge (Palmer area) – Accessible by car but feels worlds away. The classic red cabins in the snow offer a simple, rustic stay, with cross-country ski or snowshoe ceremony access.
  
• Chena Hot Springs (Fairbanks) – A winter classic. Combine aurora sightings with warm soaks, then sneak off to your private cabin.
  
• Sheldon Chalet (Denali area)  — Luxury, built for you to fully and beautifully experience Alaska in the winter.  And with its perch in the Sheldon Amphitheater in Denali National Park… Honestly? You’ve never seen winter look & feel SO GOOD.
  
• Borealis Basecamp (Fairbanks)— An experience, not just a destination.  Glass roofed igloos and “cube” glass front cabins.  With a host of winter excursions to help you really experience the beauty of a winter elopement in Alaska, this is an amazing choice.
  
• Thompson Pass  (Valdez) – Epic for winter heli or snowcat-accessed adventures.
  
• Glacier View (Matanuska Glacier Area)–  For a different way to experience the glacier—snow machine tours!  Enjoy fewer tourists, and intimate lodge vibes.  And, if you are lucky, the winter glacier will treat you to an ice cave or arch you can visit via a heli tour with glacier landings.
  • Great for a “just us two” Elopement or an wonderful option for a destination wedding location to embrace the Alaskan winter experience.
    

Planning = Beautiful Outcomes

PRO TIP: A winter elopement in Alaska does require more prep—but the mood and intimacy are unmatched.

And, if you are interested in chasing the Aurora (aka Northern Lights) during your winter elopement in Alaska, reach out!  

As part of the concierge planning I provide my clients, we’ll connect as a team with an industry leading expert in Aurora science to help plan the when and where for your elopement. 

 We can never guarantee the Aurora will show up.  BUT, we plan thoughtfully to optimize the chances that you can have this natural phenomenon dancing overhead for your vows, frozen in time in your images.  

You can read more in my dedicated Alaska winter elopement planning guide coming soon. Sign up here to be notified!

Top Alaska Luxury Elopement Destinations (No Matter the Scenery)

These are places that have really caught my eye—for their adventurous luxury, comfort + design, unique location, and the way they embrace the natural landscape.

When you elope in Alaska, where you stay is not an afterthought.

Here, the journey is the destination, and your lodging is the foundation of the beautiful experience we’ll build for your wedding experience.

While I haven’t personally stayed at each one (yet), each of these are high on my list for couples seeking something truly special. Not just a hotel, but a home base at for adventures during their elopement or intimate wedding in Alaska.

In short?  If you can dream it, we can do it.

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Boutique Lodges + Out-in-the-Wilderness Luxury

Mountain & Deep Wilderness Luxury Lodges

Sheldon Chalet (Denali region) –

A bucket-list destination. Sheldon Chalet sits perched on a nunatak, a peak of rock jutting out from the Ruth Glacier inside an iconic Denali alpine amphitheater. Access is fly-in only, and your stay includes a private chef, guided glacier treks, sauna with glacier views, and accommodations that feel both elegant and elemental. Elope in this majestic place year-round.

Ultima Thule Lodge (Wrangell-St. Elias) –

Remote and luxurious, this fly-in lodge is set deep in the largest national park in the U.S.  This one’s all about solitude and scale. 

From here, you can explore the backcountry by bush plane, hike in complete solitude, or soak up views from your private timber-framed chalet. Enjoy meals that are fresh, seasonal, and beautifully crafted. If you’re seeking true wilderness with comfort as the foundation of how you elope in Alaska, this is it.

Tordrillo Mountain Lodge (Tordrillo Range, Anchorage area) –

Accessible only by air, this luxury basecamp just west of Anchorage offers heli-access adventures like glacier kayaking, fishing, and ridge landings.

Ever heard of via ferrata?  It’s an experience like no other and a flavor of mountain Europe, right here in Alaska!

The property includes a main lodge, private cabins, a lakeside hot tub, and a 500-bottle wine cellar. For couples looking to pair elegance with adrenaline and immersion in outdoor experiences, this is one to watch.

On-the-Water Luxury Lodges

Between Beaches (Kachemak Bay, Homer Area) –

Situated on a narrow spit of land with beach access on both sides, this artistic property is ideal for intimate, oceanside elopements. The hand-built cabins are artful and warm, with soaking tubs, wood-fired saunas, and unforgettable sunsets over Kachemak Bay. Access options vary. Float plane, air taxi, via water taxi from Homer, an epic drive, or some combination of them!

Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge (Seward Area) – 

The only lodge inside Kenai Fjords National Park, this waterfront eco-lodge is surrounded by tidewater glaciers and wildlife. Guests stay in private cabins by the water, with hearty, locally inspired meals served in a central gathering space. Access is by boat from Seward.

Stillpoint Lodge (Halibut Cove, Homer Area) –

A true gem tucked away across the bay from Homer, this all-inclusive retreat blends high-end design with eco-conscious values. Think: yoga decks, meditation spaces, organic gardens, and a wine list that surprises you in the best way. Getting in is part of the experience with boat, heli or float plane options available.  

And as of September 2024, Stillpoint became the first and only Alaska property awarded by MICHELIN with Two MICHELIN Keys, making it a top choice for discerning couples who want comfort and soul in equal measure.

AdventureSmith Explorations (Inside Passage) –

Not a “lodge,” but a floating lodge experience worth mentioning. This luxury small-ship “cruise” company specializes in adventure-based itineraries through the Inside Passage.

With boat sizes down to 8-11 guests, AdventureSmith forces you to examine what you know (or assume!) about “cruising.” Expect kayak excursions, guided landings, and yacht-style comfort with sustainability at the core. 

Perfect for couples looking to elope with the magic of the water as the foundation for their experience. OR… Perfect to extend their Alaska elopement into a full luxury vacation and honeymoon at sea.

Images courtesy of vendors (left: Sheldon Chalet, upper right: Stillpoint Lodge, bottom right: Ultima Thule Lodge)

Adventure Luxe Glamping & Wild Comfort

These stays are not “roughing it.” These fit my Adventure Luxe standard as they’re rooted in the wild, but elevated with warmth, intention, and beautifully curated touches.

For couples who want immersion into the best of Alaska’s wild spaces without sacrificing comfort, these are ideal for elopements, honeymoons, or experience-based luxury vacation stays.

Alpenglow Luxury Glamping (Matanuska Glacier) –

Elegant canvas tents with real beds, cozy linens, and lantern-lit ambiance, perched at the edge of Alaska’s only road-accessible glacier. You can hike or heli onto the glacier, ice climb, or explore high alpine vistas in heli-accessed exploration. 

Back at camp, toast the night in the cedar hot tub, or, beside a campfire under the stars.  See this 2-day elopement to get a feel for what it could be like.

Shearwater Cove (Seward Area) –

Accessed by water taxi from Seward, this eco-luxury yurt glamping sits in a private cove surrounded by mountains, lush and green.  Nicely-appointed accommodations in a  yurt with a comfy queen bed, ensuite kitchenette and bathroom amenities. 

Take out the kayaks available to guests and go paddle around with sea otters in the bay. Enjoy custom heli or other adventure excursions, all departing from your base at camp. (See what an intimate wedding in Alaska can look like at Shearwater)

Matanuska Glacier Glamping (Matanuska Glacier)–

Another glacier-embracing retreat with adventure-forward luxury so you can elope in Alaska, beautifully. Think: crisp mountain air, flowing glacier meltwater nearby. Simple yet comfortable canvas-bell tents, raised off the ice on platforms, Enjoy real mattresses, cozy linens, and chairs for lounging on your tent’s front deck. 

With only 3 tents plus the on-glacier guides that support your stay, this heli-accessed experience offers privacy, peace, and views for days. (What’s it like to elope here and stay at the camp?  See this 2-day elopement here)

Bear Glacier Lagoon Glamping (Seward area)–

A perfect example of the beauty of being remote, and, why I love embracing adventure luxe as an experience when you elope in Alaska.

Nestled on a lagoon filled with icebergs, these yurt-style tents give you front-row views of floating ice and dramatic peaks. Access by helicopter from Seward. Relaxation or adventure can be yours with heli-accessed hiking, high alpine picnics, or on-glacier dogsledding.  And, from camp, enjoy guided hiking or kayaking through the iceberg lagoon. 

PRO TIP: Several of these adventure luxe options come with board service for included meals. However, I partner with a private chef who specializes in off-grid, slow food experiences that can be integrated into any of these stays.  It is perfect for curated multi-course, plated elopement dinners in the wild. Remote doesn’t require roughing it!

What I adore about each of these options for your elopement is that whether a backcountry lodge or an nature-integrated glamp, these aren’t resorts. 

They’re basecamps for beauty, connection, and intentional celebration. Truly meaningful spaces curated to unite: nature + elopement or intimate wedding experience unlike any other + a true luxury Alaska vacation experience, all in one.

How else do we infuse quiet, experienced-based luxury into your Alaska elopement? More on that, below…

7. LUXURY ELOPEMENT EXPERIENCES in Alaska

Not all luxury looks the same.  

For Soul & Sky couples, luxury doesn’t mean excess—it means intention. It means building in space to breathe, to wander, and to really be in the moment with the one person (or few people) who matter most. 

Adventure luxe in the adventures we co-create isn’t about choosing between wild and elevated. It’s about having both—beautifully intertwined, and intentionally designed for the people who value experience over extravagance.

Below are some of the ways I design Alaska elopements that feel personal, place-rooted, and entirely your own. 

Each one begins with a simple question: What kind of experience do you want to remember 10 years from now?

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Begin with Where: Lodging as a Foundation

I build every elopement around the lodging first—because that’s where your story unfolds. 

It’s not just where you sleep. It’s where you wake up and write your vows. Where you sip coffee on a deck overlooking the water, or get ready while sounds of nature hum around you.

Whether you’re staying in a cozy yurt at Bear Glacier Lagoon… A glass-topped igloo built for Northern Lights viewing… A luxury backcountry lodge like Ultima Thule Lodge or mountain chalet like Sheldon…

…This first choice sets the tone for everything else for your destination wedding in Alaska. It’s the quiet container for all the adventures to come.

We covered the top lodges in Section 6—but here’s where they start to shape the story.

Go Beyond the Trail: By Helicopter, Floatplane, or Bush Plane

Many of my couples say they’ve never been on a helicopter or floatplane before they came to elope in Alaska. And that’s part of the magic—these aren’t everyday moments. 

These are the happy, giant grin, “I’m SO GLAD we’re doing this” kind of moments that make Alaska unforgettable.

And while helicopter landings on Knik Glacier and Medenhall  are a classic for a reason, they’re just one option. We can also:

• Charter a floatplane to a private alpine lake or island cove
  
• Take a bush plane into Gates of the Arctic or Wrangell-St. Elias
  
• Land with a ski plane, where your only company might be a snow-covered glacier and endless quiet
  

These flights aren’t just scenic routes—they’re entrances into places that change your pace and perspective before you’ve even lifted off the ground. 

Let the Glacier Be Your Cathedral

There’s something unshakably grounding about standing on ancient ice, miles from anything resembling a crowd. Glaciers aren’t static—they’re alive. They’re textured. And no two days ever look quite the same.

For couples who want that sense of awe without the performance, this is it.

We might:

• Trek or fly onto the glacier chasing glacier blue pools and impressive ice “waterfalls” for your vows. Then, return to an inviting glamping tent tucked into a forest glamping camp
  
• Heli to a ridge above the icefields to actually to comprehend the scale to say your vows. Overnight at a glass walled dome, perched on a ridge, with sweeping glacier and alpine views.
  
• Vows on the glacier by day. Then, spend the night at a glacier glamping camp, waking up surrounded by all the colors textures and sounds of the glacier, and under the blue sky
  
• Lean in and trust…. Fully embrace the passion and knowledge of the guides at Sheldon Chalet to help you pick out the most awe-inspiring place for your luxury Alaska elopement. 
  • Whether down on the glacier, the perch of a high alpine landing, or, near the comfort of the Chalet, the experience and story of your vows (and the images that hold those memories!) will be without parallel.
    
• Immerse IN your glacier experience with on-ice vows, then, hopping into a packraft (inflatable “kayak” to paddle an glacier blue pool in your wedding finest). Perhaps a cold plunge for the record books?

For my couples, the glacier isn’t just a backdrop you pose with— being in this truly inspirational place is a foundational part of your wedding experience. This is why we build time into your plan to allow you to feel the moments, energy, and, truly soak in the experience. 

These are the kinds of multi-day moments that turn your wedding into a full luxury Alaska vacation, rich with experience and intention.

Make Water Part of the Experience

Eloping in Alaska often means encountering water—lakes, fjords, glacial rivers or lagoons. I love finding ways to make it part of the story, not just the setting.

Sometimes, that means a quiet paddle across a misty lake at sunrise, just you, your partner, and the soft sounds of morning. 

Other times, we might take a boat ride or kayak through iceberg-dotted lagoons, winding a path through clear, crisp water and hulking ice.

For couples drawn to something a bit more distinctive, consider:

• Chartering a sailboat near Kenai Fjords National Park, where you can glide past tidewater glaciers and sea stacks on a private expedition that feels like your own little world
  
• Booking a beautifully restored historic boat for an intimate dinner cruise in Resurrection Bay, complete with locally sourced food, calm seas, and golden hour light that seems to last forever
  
• A private, luxe catamaran sail in the most surprising of places. Slow travel to see and experience Alaska in a totally new way.
  
• Or, something else –perfectly designed for the two of you– in a plethora of places across the state
  

What do I see with couples who choose a water-based adventure?  Water invites presence. It slows you down and you feel a physical connection to the elements in a way that’s hard to explain. Plus, the sounds and motion provide a calm that’s hard to replicate. 

If this kind of water-based intimacy speaks to you, the next step might be planning an elopement that blends land and sea—like a luxury small-ship cruise through Alaska’s Inside Passage. (More on that next.)

For the Coastal Dreamers: Small-Ship Adventure Cruises

Some couples want to pair their elopement days with a longer journey, or bring guests along in a way that feels immersive and intentional.

If that’s you, I would suggest you look at AdventureSmith Explorations—a small-ship cruise operator offering luxury yacht-style itineraries through Alaska’s Inside Passage and beyond. 

Think: guided excursions, adventure-inspired itineraries (kayaking with seals, anyone?!), fine dining meals, wildlife sightings, and a floating lodge that moves with you.

These are a world away from huge, traditional cruises—sustainability and privacy are built into every decision, starting with ship scale.

Let me know your vision, and I will work with their Adventure Experts to help build the perfect plan for your Alaska elopement.

Maybe that means eloping before you board, mid-voyage, or even at a port stop in a location that excites you—the possibilities can be endless!

Celebration, Curated Simply

Luxury doesn’t have to be opulent. Sometimes, it’s fresh Alaskan crab legs and champagne after your ceremony. 

Other times, it’s a chef-prepared dinner in the backcountry—just you two or a few close loved ones, gathered at a long table with gorgeous flowers and candlelight.

A delightful “just us two” wedding cake, paired with your favorite aged bourbon or champagne.

Whatever energizes or inspires you, I’m here to help shape it—and photograph it—especially if it’s unexpected, uncommon, or a little wild. It’s about immersing in and celebrating the place you’ve chosen, not just checking a box.

Because the truth is: you deserve to celebrate well, even if you don’t want a big reception.

We might build in:

• A backcountry reception setup with real sweetheart and guest tablescapes, florals, and a beautiful plated, course-presented, slow food-inspired meal
  
• A sauna, hot tub soak, or maybe even a bucketlist cold plunge before or after the ceremony day
  
• Time to pause and enjoy your space, instead of rushing from one photo or activity to the next
  
• Gourmet charcuterie picnic that’s a beautiful feast for the eyes, and, a delicious fuel for adventure.
  
• Cozying up at campfire under your special wedding Pendleton blanket.  Or, wrap it around you for an evening stroll with lanterns to see the stars like never before.
  

We’re not trying to fill every moment. We’re putting thought into how we shape the right ones—especially in the context of a longer itinerary… The moments that lead to ease, relaxation, connection and fun. 

For many couples, this becomes more than a wedding. It becomes a multi-day immersion into what really matters, with beautiful images from the whole experience capturing the magic that having time can bring.

For Late Fall and Winter: Darkness, Designed Well

If you’re considering a winter or late-fall Alaska elopement, this season offers something quietly powerful—a luxury experience that’s cozy, intentional in highlighting natural beauty, and grounded in the presence and clarity that comes with true cold.

Picture saying your vows in the muffled stillness of a snow-covered forest, or tucked in an ice cave on a glacier. 

Perhaps designing your timeline around the chance to exchange vows beneath the glow of the Northern Lights excites you most. 

Your stay might include:

• A glass-domed igloo or glass-walled modern cabin designed for aurora viewing
  
• Lantern and candle-lit dinners + spaces, adding warmth and glow to the dusk & dark
  
• Snow-season activities like dogsledding, snowmachine (aka snowmobile) touring, heli or ski plane excursions, or meeting reindeer—immsersive touches that make the wedding experience feel rich and rooted in place

However your destination wedding adventures finalize, there’s a different kind of rhythm in the Alaska winter—one that slows you down and draws you to a beautiful sense of surrender. Mother Nature rules the roost here, especially in the winter.  

8. ELOPE IN ALASKA WITH FAMILY: Luxury with your Treasured Few

There’s something deeply meaningful about eloping just the two of you—but that doesn’t mean you have to go it alone. For increasingly more Soul & Sky couples, the most honest, ideal vision of their elopement includes a few of their most important people—their treasured few.

We covered a few factors to plans for in your Alaska Elopement Package in Section 3 above, but it bears repeating:

Planning a destination wedding in Alaska with a group of 5–20 guests is not about throwing a mini wedding. 

It’s about designing a shared experience—one that’s intimate, immersive, and elevated, without losing the space and freedom an elopement allows.

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Designing with Intention—for You and Them

The first thing I often tell couples is this: you get to have both when you elope in Alaska.

You can include your people and still create and protect space for just the two of you.

We do that through thoughtful pacing, intentional design, and clear transitions.

That multi-day wedding timeline could look like:

• A welcome day (or dinner) the day before, with time to connect and ground into place
  
• A private morning together on your elopement day, where you write vows or exchange gifts. Or, enjoy those early hours getting ready and sharing coffee with your treasured few, soaking in the energy of the day together
  
• A ceremony that includes your guests, followed by family portraits in the surrounding landscape
  
• Returning back to your lodging , and hosting a beautiful reception, chef-prepared dinner and celebration into the evening for you and your guests.
  
• Then, on Day Three, a dedicated time for just the two of you for personal vows and an intimate celebration and experience, private to you.  Whether it’s a hike, a custom heli tour, or, some other amazing adventure we design just for you, your wedding experience deserves a full, unhurried day (or days) to breathe it all in, together.
  

This kind of planning asks for more time—but that’s the point. Alaska destination weddings don’t need to be rushed. And we can always add more hours or days if you need the space.

Making It Work Logistically (Without the Stress)

When guests are involved, logistics matter more—but that doesn’t mean the experience has to become rigid or complicated.

We’ll focus on:

• Impressively remote, yet, accessible lodging that still feels beautiful and personal (think: private lodges, curated glamping, or nature-inspired cabins)
  
• Vendors who can travel or serve onsite, including chefs, hair & makeup stylists, event design & decor specialists, and adventure guides
  
• Group activities that offer connection without over-scheduling—like wildlife viewing, gentle hikes, guided kayaking or glacier walks, or scenic boat rides
  
• Clear guidance for your guests, so they know where to be, what to expect, and how to support your vision
  

With the full concierge-style planning if offer in addition to my photography, you don’t have to piece any of this together yourself.

A Celebration That Feels Like You

Including guests when you elope in Alaska doesn’t mean defaulting back into a traditional wedding. It means inviting your people into something deeply meaningful—and giving them a front-row seat to your joy.

We might:

• Host a gorgeous post-ceremony meal, either privately catered or in a beautiful tucked away spot in the lodge
  
• Set up a champagne toast and cake cutting at your ceremony site, with views stretching for miles
  
• Offer custom guest gifts rooted in place—like handmade goods, foraged elements, or trail snacks for the next day’s hike
  
• Build a timeline that feels more like a retreat than an event
  

This is a celebration, yes—but it’s also an experience your guests will never forget.

Why Alaska Is the Perfect Backdrop a “Treasured Few” Gathering

There’s something about Alaska that asks people to show up differently. To pay attention. To be present.

A wedding in Alaska gives your guests the gift of immersion. And it gives you the chance to share something real—not just a pretty view, but an adventure shaped by intention, nature as the focus, and time for connection.

Whether we’re gathering in the fjords, at a glacier lake, or in a forest lodge tucked far from the usual noise, choosing to elope in Alaska is your chance to create something that feels personal and special.

And when the experience is this full, the story deserves to be told completely—from quiet mornings and family hugs to sunset portraits and the unrepeatable little moments in-between. That’s where thoughtful, immersive photography comes in.

(More on that next.)

9. WHY You Need an EXPERIENCED ALASKA ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER

Your elopement isn’t just a series of events—and especially when you elope in Alaska—it’s a lived experience. And your photographs should reflect that: 

The anticipation of getting ready… The quiet gazes before the ceremony starts… The welling of tears…  The changing light… The wind in your hair while you read your vows… The depth of a hug at the end of the ceremony… The laughs and wonder in adventures and celebrations… The way your partner looks at you during the heli ride back to base… 

These are the “small” things that matter in a big way in the images that allow you to relieve your elopement adventure in Alaska, forever.

As an Alaska elopement & wedding photographer, I believe my role isn’t to stage moments so I can photograph them. Instead, I’m passionate in my mission to work with you create space inside amazing experiences for you two to feel them fully. Then, I document them in a way that feels honest and quietly beautiful.

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Photography That Reflects the Experience—Not a Trend

There’s a lot of pressure in the wedding (and elopement!) space to chase the “wow” shot or follow trends styles. 

While there are always elements of tradition (eg; family portraits, formal portrait for the parents!) or trend (eg: motion blur!) I’m happy to integrate into your elopement photography, we do so in balance.  Why? So many of my couples choose this adventure luxe, fully immersive destination elopement path because they want “real,” not a performance or show.   

They love travel —and the unique experiences within it— in the life they’ve built together. So, the idea of being able to elope in Alaska in a way that allows you:

• Privacy…
• Connection and insights from locals & expert guides, not just tourist tracks…
• Photography that blends journalistic + candid + landscapes + guided (not posed) techniques, and…
• Access to a “secret menu” of ways to make their elopement story their best adventure yet…

…YES… that feels right.

So, the foundation of what I offer as an Alaska elopement photographer is a more grounded, immersive approach to visual storytelling—rooted in movement, connection, and place. 

You won’t find overly posed images here. Instead, I guide you gently when needed, so your photos feel like you and not a version of you that was manufactured for Instagram.

This is quiet luxury in photography. It’s simple. Meaningful. An unwavering focus on being present, leaning into the adventure of this amazing place you’ve chosen and letting the beauty of that show up in the frame.

My goal? To capture images showing not just how it looked, but how it felt.

Built for Every Moment: Multi-Day Photography Coverage

That’s why I don’t believe your best experience—or your most meaningful images—can come from a photographer showing up for just a few hours.

You might get beautiful photos, yes.

But, in such a short window, much of what’s captured depends on posing and a bit of luck —rather than— real connection, natural pacing of exploring a place without silent pressure to hurry, or your emotion when you are both relaxed and having fun. These are the elements of our longer time together I love to photograph because they make the story yours. They make it meaningful.

You’ve thought, dreamed, planned, and are now living this adventurous experience as you elope in Alaska…. So to best show your story, I build coverage around your entire destination wedding experience.

Whether your elopement adventure is 1.5 days, 3 days, or more!, I’m there for:

• The slower moments—writing vows, sipping coffee, snuggling in a hot tub under the stars…
• The big ones—your first look, the vow exchange, first kiss, your reactions to & experiences in the landscape…
• The in-between—your guests arriving, and their emotion, how your dress flows as you walk along a glacier blue pool, the quiet after dinner, the moment you exhale into each other when no one is looking…
• The nuances of your story–floral details, the beauty of handwritten vows in custom vow books, creating meaningful flatlays highlighting your details important to this adventure…

And whether your vows, celebration and adventure unfold on land or ice, in the air, or on the water—I’m stoked for your adventure because I can keep up and photograph through all of it. The hike, the helicopter ride, the packraft or kayak, horseback ride, or the sailboat at sunset… I’m there, and I’m ready.

This isn’t just “wedding coverage.” It’s intentional documentation of your full, immersive Alaska elopement story.

More Than an Elopement Photographer—A Partner in Adventure 

As a private photographer for luxury travel in Alaska, I wear many hats—planner, location scout, gear-checker, logistics coordinator, weather watcher, calm presence. 

That ability to be nimble is a big part of what makes the adventure, wedding, and general photography experience feel so seamless for my couples.

As a result, whether we’re in the heart of your elopement or adventuring in the days before or after, I’m quietly guiding the flow—coordinating with any vendor partners so everything stays aligned. You won’t need to manage time or wonder what’s next. I’ve got the rhythm covered so you can simply enjoy what’s unfolding.

On-the-ground knowledge of light, landscape, and season in Alaska is what helps us stay flexible when the weather changes (because it will)… Or, when the boat’s timing changes… Or, when we need to shift the timeline to capture a sudden break in the clouds & rain.

My preparedness in the field with my Mary Poppins Kit (things like a portable beauty kit for eyelashes or nails, garment tape, sewing supplies, snacks, first aid, and SO much more), my wilderness first aid training, and extensive international and domestic travel experience (to on and off the grid places) mean I love the challenge of being ready for whatever comes.  

The benefit for you? You can focus on each other, the beauty and wonder as you elope IN ALASKA, and the feelings of it all.  I’ll take care of the rest. 

Your Joy & Story – The Heart of my Photography

I find so much joy in making connections and bringing new ideas to life because I believe (almost) anything is possible. It just hasn’t been done yet.

So, sometimes, the truest thrill for me is helping you pick a location for your Alaska destination wedding that feels absolutely wild—and knowing that the story we create there might be the first of its kind in that space.

Is it easy? Not always. Is it worth it? EVERY TIME.

Those images we capture—the ones that hold the essence of something new, something uniquely yours, something special—they become memories not just for you, but for me too. Because I’m there for it. And I feel the emotion of these moments I’m so lucky to be able to bear witness to.

Your story deserves more than a few highlight images. It deserves to be told well—with texture & nuance, with care, and with time. No rushing allowed. That’s what I bring to you in every elopement and destination wedding I document.

If you’re looking for a photographer that specializes in Alaska elopements who will:

• Move at your pace
• Adventure with you, side-by-side
• Guide you with purpose
• Show the expanse and beauty of the place you’ve chosen, and
• Leave you with a gallery that feels timeless and true — your memories, in image form…

…Reach out and let’s start dreaming. I’d be so honored to be part of your story.

10. REAL STORIES: What a Soul & Sky Elopement Looks Like

At this point in the article, you’ve now seen all the pieces—the lodging, the glaciers, the helicopters, hikes, the long-table dinners. But what does it look like when it all comes together?

Here’s a glimpse into a few real Soul & Sky stories about what it’s like to elope in Alaska — adventures designed to show possibility, and, couples who trusted the process, followed their instincts, and celebrated their love in places that took their breath away.

Each story is different. And that’s the point, because yours will be too♥️

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Ronnie & Anthony: A Modern, Multi-Day Elopement so Uniquely Alaska

Location: Downtown Seward, then, Alaska backcountry, yurt basecamp at Bear Glacier Lagoon, and Godwin Glacier vows

Experience: Two-day elopement including a private vows by dogsled, high alpine helicoper (heli) stop, and yurt lodging in the remote wild, kayaking through an iceberg filled lake. 

Ronnie & Anthony’s modern day luxury destination elopement was a stunning blend of adventure and intention—complete with yurt glamping, dog mushing, and a private ice amphitheater for vows. AND, with 2 entire days, they had the time and an easy, thoughtful pace to soak it all in. Then, followed up with a beautiful, formal wedding reception for their all their community once home. Yes, you can have it all!

FUN FACT: Their modern elopement story was so inspiring, it was featured by Destination I Do.
Explore their full two-day glacier & backcountry experience

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Charity & Jason: Remote Luxury at a Private Glamping Camp

Location: Shearwater Cove Glamping, Resurrection Bay – Seward

Experience: Inspirational destination wedding experience in the lush fjord environment near Kenai Fjords National Park, including glamping and a boat ride to private island ceremony location. 

Set at their true labor of love, their glamping property Shearwater Cove, Charity & Jason’s story was fun and showcased the connection and beauty of including your treasured few in your love story in a unique, adventure luxe venue.
Explore their full Shearwater experience

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Samantha & Paul: A Romantic & Fun Floatplane Adventure Full of Feeling

Location: Remote alpine lakes via floatplane.  Launched from between Seward & Girdwood

Experience: A deeply personal day featuring a floatplane adventure, a romantic picnic, fun and play at beautiful alpine lakes.

Samantha & Paul’s adventurous portrait outing was simple, beautiful and with an excursion idea happily outside of the norm. A gorgeous way to inspire other couples on unique activities for when they get engaged or elope in Alaska, and, to simply to celebrate their amazing connection together.
See their full floatplane adventures & portraits story

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Kristen & Oliver: A Celebration on Earth + Ice + In-Air

Location: Knik Glacier + Hatcher Pass, and lakeside lodging near northern Anchorage area.

Experience: Two-days of soak-it-all-in adventures. UTV accessed exploration & celebration in Hatcher Pass high alpine.  Helicopter accessed glacier ceremony, hidden waterfall, and portraits tucked into massive craggy alpine views.

Kristen & Oliver’s two days were the perfect blend to show bold scenery & style, fun + unexpected excursions, and refined touches. Stunning fall foliage in Hatcher Pass, a heli landing at glacier blue pools, glacier alpine lakes and more to inspire & celebrate how you can elope in Alaska!  

Get inspired by this multi-adventure, mountain & glacier experience

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Jasmine & Vince: Glacier Camp Immersion at Matanuska

Location: Matanuska Glacier

Experience: Three glorious days with space to feel every moment. Overnight glacier camp & vows, forest-side glamping, hiking excursion, and time to relax and celebrate.

Jasmine & Vince leaned all the way in with a vow renewal embracing Alaska’s wild side. With new experiences they’ll remember forever, they immersed in the adventure with comfort, truly unique adventure luxe lodging, and the love and joy of celebrating together.
Experience the glacier glamping journey (and more!)

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Kym & Ash: A Family-Inclusive, Multi-Day Celebration

Location: Temperate Rainforest nook in Girdwood, Knik Glacier, and, surrounds.

Experience: Three-day itinerary with private cabin lodging, shared with their treasured few.  Adventurous vows & celebration with their loved ones balanced with private time before family events. And, a “just us two” adventure day to follow.

Their destination wedding wasn’t just about the vows. It was about sharing an incredible travel experience with their treasured few. With vows in the wild with their loved ones, family portraits, and a post-ceremony reception and plated, chef’s dinner, connection with their community shone bright.

And, a private hike before the big family experiences, and, a private “just us two” multi-stop heli adventure for Day 3 meant they didn’t have to give up time to connect & create special moments just for themselves during this amazing adventure.
See this full family-inclusive Alaska destination wedding.

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These are a few stories that reflect what a Soul & Sky elopement or intimate destination wedding can be, and, the beautiful images we capture to forever hold your story. And whether you elope with me in Alaska, or, somewhere else in the world, every wedding experience is shaped with care, crafted around you as a couple, and inspired by the place where it unfolds.

Feeling curious? Looking for new ideas & resources to creatively and intentionally plan an elopement wedding in Alaska?  If so, be sure to visit the Journal. 

You’ll find: location insights, real stories, pro tips, and activity ideas… All designed to support your planning and spark your wanderlust, whether in Alaska, or, anywhere else in our amazing world!

And don’t forget to hop over to my Portfolio. Here you can browse more moments of adventures that I’ve captured and see what storytelling and exploration-inspired images can look like as your Alaska elopement comes to life.

11. – FAQs – About How to Elope in Alaska

Whether you’re beginning to dream what it could be like to elope in Alaska, or, ready explore timing, you might have more questions.

 Below are some of the most common ones I hear—and some insights & answers from my experiences here at Soul & Sky to guide your next steps.

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Still curious? The Journal is full of resources with planning tips, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and real stories from all types of adventures & elopements to help you imagine so much more of what’s possible.

12. LET’S PLAN Your One-of-a-Kind Alaska Elopement

If you’ve made it this far, maybe something’s already stirring in your imagination.

…Maybe it’s the idea of a ceremony on a glacier, or a few slow days at a coastal lodge with your closest people….

…Maybe it’s just the feeling of space—to be yourself, to move at your own pace, and to create something never been done before… Something unforgettable, tucked away from the noise of expectations.

Whatever’s pulling at you, I’d love to help you follow it.

As both a photographer and elopement planning concierge, I plan -and then photograph- luxury Alaska elopements that are immersive, experience-first, and entirely custom. 

Reach out and share what ideas make you say “If we could only…” Because from your first spark of inspiration to the moment you hold your images in your hands, I’m here to tell you – and then show you- that YES, you can.

We don’t follow templates. We build stories. Together.

So tell me… What elopement story can we build for you?  You deserve amazing.  

–Adventure Always–

Kate