2024

Jasper Elopement Guide

HOW TO ELOPE IN JASPER NATIONAL PARK

Frequently Asked Questions

The Best Time Of The Year To Elope In Jasper National Park

Activities To Do In Jasper For Your Elopement

Sample All Day Jasper Elopement Timelines

Jasper Elopement Packages

Best Elopement Location In Jasper National Park

Local Vendor Recommendations

Permits

Where To Stay In Jasper For Your Elopement

Things To Do In Jasper

Where To Eat In Jasper

Elopement Packing List

Safety In The Park

Park Rules

What Does It Mean to Elope?

I love MADDIE MAE’s definition of eloping: “An elopement is an intentionally small, intimate, meaningful, and authentic wedding experience that is a true reflection of your relationship where the focus of the day is really about the two of you.”

Why You Should Elope in Jasper

Jasper National Park it is one of the most spectacular places on earth, offers unmatched breath taking scenery and endless opportunities for adventure. It is the perfect location for your elopement and has something for everyone whether you are a back country adventurer or someone who prefers to stay on the trails. You don’t have to hike to say your vows at the top of a mountain!

 Frequently Asked Questions About Eloping in Jasper National Park

Do I need a permit to Elope in Jasper?

To get legally married in Jasper National Park you do NOT need a permit.

How much does it cost to elope in Jasper?

The answer can vary a lot based on the vendors you choose to work with, activities you choose to do, where you choose to eat and stay and for how long. If you choose luxury hotels and experiences over a longer period of time the cost will be higher, if you choose to camp and stay for a shorter amount of time the cost will be lower. Guest count can change the cost too. Roughly you can expect to pay $10,000 CAD for a week long stay and elopement. Read on for more information.

Who Should I Invite to My Elopement?

You can invite whoever you want to your elopement! Friends, family, your dog. To elope on public land park Canada specifies that you cannot have more than twenty guests (including all vendors) for your ceremony. You can also invite no one. Read on for more information.

Can a Friend or Family Member Officiate the Ceremony?

Yes! Your friend or family member can officiate your ceremony. You can find all the information for having a friend or family member officiate your ceremony HERE.

How to

Plan Your Jasper Elopement

Research is your first step and this is the perfect place to start!

Connect with a local photographer or planner who is familiar with Jasper National Park. I live locally and can help you decide on a season, location, connect you with local vendors and help you bring your vision to life!

Choose a location for your elopement. Whether you want to take a helicopter to a mountain summit to say your vows, paddle across a clear blue glacier fed lake or have a picnic in the forest, Jasper has it all! And I’m happy to help you choose the perfect locations!

Decide on the time of year you want to elope. Are you dreaming of clear blue lakes and the summer sun or are you dreaming of snow covered mountain tops and cozy nights by the fire? Jasper is amazing year round and has so much to offer!

Find your dream vendors: photographer, videographer, officiant, florist, make up and hair, etc.

Get your marriage license and permits required to elope in Banff.

Enjoy the your day in the mountains that is all about your love!

 LET’S DIVE IN

Here’s What You Need to Know

 The Best Time of The Year to Elope in Jasper

The best time of year to elope in Jasper National Park depends on personal preferences and what you're looking for in terms of weather, scenery, and activities. Jasper is beautiful year round and there is always lots to do! Remember that weather in the mountains is always changing and can be very unpredictable. If you’re hoping to spend the majority of your wedding day outside it’s really important to be honest with yourself about your preference for weather. Don’t plan a winer elopement if you don’t like being outside in freezing temperatures. Here are some considerations for each season:

Winter

Mid November - Mid April

Banff is a snow covered winter wonderland during this time. There are lots of winter activities to do like ice skating, dog sledding, horse drawn sleigh rides, warm fires and cozy restaurants. Expect it to be cold (as low as -34º at times) and for there to be a lot of snow and ice. It can also very windy. You probably won’t want to plan prolonged times outside for your wedding day. You’ll needs lots of indoor breaks to warm up. It’s important to be prepared for the weather by dressing warm and also checking a head of time what the driving conditions will be like. Make sure to follow winter tire laws. The sunsets very early.

Spring

Mid April - Mid June

It takes a long time for Jasper to unthaw from the winter months. You can expect warmer temperatures but the snow takes a while to melt. Mountains will definitely be snow capped. Trails can have snow on them still and can be muddy/ soggy from melting snow. In April and early May some lakes may still be frozen or thawing. You’ll definitely want to bring warm layers.

Summer

Mid June - Mid September

Summer is the best time to visit if you want to see turquoise blue lakes, camp, hike and wildflowers will be in bloom. It can get really warm during the day. Wild fire smoke can be an issue. This is the most popular time for tourists to visit so it can get very crowded and parking can fill up quickly. The days are long and the sun can set at 10:00pm.

Autumn

Mid September - Mid November

There are a lot less people who visit Jasper in the fall. The weather will start to get chilly and there can even be snow. The Larches turn from green to a golden yellow. Lakes are not frozen yet and if you’re lucky you’ll catch the snow fall (the lakes are still blue but the trees are covered in snow), it’s one of the most magical times of the years in the Rockies.

Ultimately, the best time to elope in Jasper National Park depends on your preferences for weather, scenery, and desired activities. Consider what type of backdrop you envision for your elopement and plan accordingly. Additionally, keep in mind that certain areas and facilities within the park may have seasonal closures or limited accessibility, so be sure to check for any restrictions before finalizing your plans.

Best time of the day to Elope

Sunrise and sunset are the best time of day for your first look, ceremony and portraits because of the soft, golden, flattering light. These times of day also have the added benefit of there being less crowds (more so sunrise than sunset). Sunrise and sunset times change vastly throughout the seasons so I’ll help you decide when the best time to have your ceremony is depending on which season you choose for your elopement. Choosing between sunrise and sunset is totally up to you and your personal preference. They are both magical times of day and will allow for the best photos!

 Activities to Do On Your Elopement Day In Jasper

One of the best parts about eloping is that you can choose to fill your day with all of your favourite activities! You don’t have to stick to traditions of any kind! Banff has so much to offer, there is something for everyone!

Helicopter Ride

Whether you want to saw your vows on a mountain top or take a scenic flight above the Canadian Rockies. You don’t have to hike to get epic views!

Canoeing

The best time to plan a canoeing elopement is July - mid September. Rentals can be closed at any time for bad weather. You can rent a canoe at Maligne Lake Boat House, for an hourly rate or bring your own. You can book your rental ahead of time to guarantee your rental.

Maligne Lake

Mid-June - Mid September

$80 per hour or $160 for the day

Hot Springs

My favourite way to end a day in the mountains is with a soak in a natural hot spring. Miette Hot Springs is open May- October and costs less than $20 per person.

Nordic Spa

Imagine a day of pampering either pre or post wedding at the Jasper Park Lodge.

Hiking

Jasper and surrounding areas are well known for their scenic hikes. There are hiking trails for all experience levels. It’s also easy to search on All Trails the app for near by hikes. You can also visit the Parks Canada website for more information. A hike is great way to spend a day in the mountains while you’re in Jasper for your elopement.

Horseback Riding

A great way to see Jasper is on horseback! There are a few different companies who offer riding in different locations and lengths of time. HERE is some more information on horseback riding in Jasper.

Gondola Ride

If you don’t like hiking but still want mountain tops views the Jasper SkyTram is an other great option.

Dog Sledding

Dog sledding is an iconic winter activity!

Sleigh Ride

Imagine being pulled through the snow in a cozy sleigh pulled by majestic horses. More information on sleigh rides on Pyramid Lake HERE.

Food & Drink

There are so many great places to find food and drinks in Jasper! A few of my favourites are Maligne Canyon Wilderness Kitchen, Lake House Cafe, The View at Malinge Lake, and Aalto Restaurant. HERE’s a list of all the best places to eat.

 Jasper Elopement Packages

You deserve the wedding day of your dreams, a whole day to celebrate YOU. I offer full day elopement photography coverage from 4-8 hrs.

My elopement packages include:

• 4+ hours of photography coverage

• Complimentary discovery call

• Professionally edited, high resolution images

• Online gallery to view, download, share and print images

• 50+ page Elopement Guide

• Timeline planning consultation

• Customized location and activity suggestions

• Vendor reccomendations

• Assistance with permits and licenses

• Photographer travel fees included anywhere in the Canadian Rockies

 Locations

In a world filled with bustling cities and bustling lives, there's something undeniably alluring about escaping into the heart of nature to exchange vows with your beloved. For those seeking an intimate, picturesque setting for their elopement, Jasper National Park stands as an unparalleled choice. Nestled in the Canadian Rockies, this pristine wilderness offers a backdrop of breathtaking landscapes that epitomize romance and adventure. Let's embark on a journey to discover the best locations within Jasper National Park to declare your love in the most enchanting of settings. When choosing a location in Jasper to elope it’s important to think about a variety of factors including: season and weather, time of day, and accessibility for you and your guests. Locations can look completely different throughout the seasons, lakes that are turquoise blue in summer will be completely frozen over and covered in ice and snow in the winter and certain locations may be completely inaccessible. During the summer months popular locations can become very crowded. There will be less people around earlier or later in the day or in more secluded locations either by hiking in or by helicopter. Some locations require a very short walk from the parking lot to a stunning view, others require a short - long hike or helicopter. It’s always best to have a back up location or two in mind just in case of weather, crowds or other unpredictable reasons.

Here are some of the most ionic locations in Jasper National Park. These locations are easy drive-in locations that don’t require hiking.

Pyramid Island: This tiny island, accessible via a short bridge, offers panoramic views of Pyramid Mountain reflected in the serene waters of Pyramid Lake. Imagine saying "I do" surrounded by towering pines, with the majestic mountain range as your witness.

Athabasca Falls: For couples who seek the thrill of cascading waterfalls as the backdrop to their vows, Athabasca Falls provides an awe-inspiring setting. The roar of the falls, the mist in the air, and the rugged beauty of the canyon create an unforgettable atmosphere for your special moment.

Maligne Lake: Renowned for its turquoise waters and the iconic Spirit Island, Maligne Lake is a dream destination for elopements. Whether you choose to exchange vows on the shores of the lake or take a boat to the secluded Spirit Island, the tranquility and grandeur of this location will leave you and your partner spellbound.

Sunwapta Falls: Tumbling over a rocky gorge, Sunwapta Falls offers a dramatic backdrop for couples seeking a blend of raw natural beauty and romance. The sound of rushing water and the sight of mist rising from the falls create a magical ambiance for your elopement ceremony.

Maligne Canyon: Meandering through a deep limestone canyon, the Maligne Canyon Trail offers an intimate setting for couples seeking a secluded and enchanting location. Exchange vows amidst towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush greenery, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Edith Cavell Path of the Glacier: For couples seeking a truly awe-inspiring backdrop for their elopement, the Edith Cavell Path of the Glacier presents an opportunity to exchange vows amidst towering peaks and ancient glaciers. Embark on a scenic hike and find the perfect spot to declare your love in the presence of nature's grandeur.

Athabasca Glacier: Experience the wonder of millennia-old ice as you exchange vows on the majestic Athabasca Glacier. Surrounded by towering peaks and pristine ice fields, this location offers a unique and unforgettable setting for your elopement ceremony.

Lake Annette: Nestled in a serene alpine valley, Lake Annette offers a tranquil setting for couples seeking a peaceful and intimate elopement ceremony. Surrounded by lush forests and towering peaks, the crystal-clear waters of the lake provide a stunning backdrop for exchanging vows and beginning your journey together.

Jasper SkyTram Summit: Elevate your elopement experience by exchanging vows atop Whistlers Mountain, reached via the Jasper SkyTram. With panoramic views of Jasper townsite, the Athabasca River valley, and surrounding peaks, this lofty location offers a truly unforgettable setting for your special day.

As you plan your elopement in Jasper National Park, remember to obtain any necessary permits and respect the park's guidelines to ensure a seamless and respectful experience. Whether you choose a serene lakeshore, a thundering waterfall, or a towering mountain summit, Jasper National Park promises to be the perfect backdrop for your love story, creating memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Local Vendor Recommendations

Here are some recommendations for trusted vendors in the area that you might want to consider for your elopement.

Florist:

Videography:

Hair & Make Up:

Transportation:

Cake:

Officiant:

You can find a list of officiants in Alberta here.

In Alberta you can have a friend or family member officiate for you as long as they are over 18 years old and a Canadian citizen. You can find all the information on temporary marriage commissioners here.

 Marriage License

You can pick you a marriage license at an Alberta Registry Agent. I recommend going to the Jasper Registry, make sure to fill in the paper work before going. You and your partner will need to go together. You will need to provide your personal information as well as the full names (including maiden names) and birth locations of your parents. You need to be over the age of 18. The fee is only $40.

Your license is valid for 90 days and you can pick it up at anytime within 90 days of your elopement date. If you change your date you will need a new license. The license will be filled out with your officiant and witnesses on the day of your elopement, so make sure to bring it along with you and don’t fill it out before hand.

If you’re a American getting married in Alberta your marriage license will be considered valid. You need to submit it locally when you get home. Confirm with local authorities that you have all your ducks in a row.

You can find everything you need to know about getting your marriage license in more detail HERE.

You can find the link to the paper work you’ll need to fill out before visiting the Jasper Registry Office HERE.

Additional Permits & Licences

There is no formal requirement for permits or approval for permission to get married in Jasper National Park if you are getting married on public land. There is however a request that you and your guests comply with park guidelines.

Some of the terms include:

• Having a maximum of 25 guess attend your ceremony.

• You and your guests complying will national park regulations at all times.

• Everyone will need a park pass.

• Understand that you do not have exclusive rights to any area.

• You are responsible for keeping the area clean, nothing can be thrown (confetti, rice, no butterflies or balloons can be released etc).

• No excese noise.

• Liquor is not permitted in public areas.

• There must not be a significant impact on the parks natural or cultural resources. Please be respectful and don’t pick flowers, stay on pathways and keep your distance from wildlife. Do not set up shelters or chairs.

• All vendors must have a valid business license with the park.

• Carpooling or group transport is encouraged.

• Day use areas close after dusk.

Contact Parks Canada or visit their WEBSITE for detailed information on permits, fees, and any restrictions that may apply to your chosen location.

Park Pass

You, your guests and vendors will all need vail park passes for the day of your elopement. You can purchase a HERE.

Ceremony Requirements

You can have a religious or civil ceremony for your elopement. A symbolic ceremony is not valid in Alberta. There are specific requirements that you must meet in order for your ceremony to be considered valid by the province of Alberta.

• You must have a valid Alberta marriage license on the day of your ceremony

• You must give the license to your officiant before the ceremony starts

• You must have two witness present who are at least 18 years old. If you aren’t planning on inviting anyone to your elopement I’m happy to sign as a witness.

• If you do choose to have a symbolic ceremony the day of your elopement you will need to have to legally get married before or after your elopement day.

Where to stay in & around

Jasper National Park

Getting to Banff

The easiest way to get to Jasper is to fly in the Edmonton Airport YYC and rent a car. From the airport the town of Jasper is about a 4 hour drive drive or 364km. You can buy a park pass at the park gate. You can also fly into Calgary and drive through Banff National Park and the iconic Icefield’s Parkway.

some of my favourite things

To Do In Jasper

WHERE TO EAT

In Jasper

Some Things You Should Pack for Your Jasper Elopement

It’s always best to come prepared for a variety of situations! Being comfortable on your wedding day is also super important!

•  Hiking shoes and extra socks

• Water and your favourite snacks

• Bear spray

• Sunscreen

• Bug Spray

• A sweater or jacket. It can get chilly in the mornings and evening and the weather can change rapidly in the mountains

• Handwarmers

• Fleece-lined Leggings

• Headlamps

• Rain jacket and or clear umbrella’s. I recommend checking the forecast frequently leading up to your elopement and bringing along rain gear and having it in your car even if there isn’t rain forecasted

• Crampons if you’re eloping in the winter, spring or late fall

• Props, this can include vows books, hand written letters etc

 Safety in The Park

Eloping in Jasper National Park is safe! However it’s always wise to think ahead and be prepared for all circumstances.

Wildlife

Jasper has lots of wildlife which can be amazing to see! Wildlife can be unpredictable and feel threatened by humans. Remember to give wildlife lots of space and don’t follow them. DO NOT feed wildlife. Dispose of all garbage properly. Respect area closures and speed limits. Keep dogs on a leash at all times. It’s a good idea to travel in groups and make lots of human noise. It’s always a good idea to carry bear spray with you. You can find more information on wildlife and you HERE.

Changing Weather Conditions

The weather in the mountains can be very unpredictable. It’s important to be prepared for changing weather conditions. It’s important to check the weather ahead of time and then again day of several times. In the winter months make sure to have the proper winter tires on your car. You can find updates on road conditions HERE and additional information on driving the Icefield’s Parkway in the winter HERE.

Cell Phone Reception

There are many areas in Banff National Park that don’t have cell phone reception, especially after Lake Louise. The Icefield’s Parkway is a long stretch of highway that has no cell phone reception. Tell someone who is not with you where you will be going and an approximate time you’ll be back. It’s wise to download an offline map before entering the park just in case.

Jasper National Park Rules

Leave no trace. jasper National Park has a set of rules to follow when for visiting and holding wedding celebrations. You can find more information here

• Maximum 25 guests can attend the ceremony.

• Guests must have a valid national parks entry pass. Passes can be purchased at the park gates or ahead of time here.

• Guests are encouraged to carpool or take public transit to reduce vehicular traffic. Only park in designated lots.

• Choose a less popular location, or a time earlier or later in the day to avoid congestion.

• Keep noise to a minimum.

• The park is a public space and you cannot reserve an area for personal use.

• Open alcohol is prohibited in public places.

• It is illegal to pick flowers, mushrooms, cut down trees, branches, remove rocks, cultural artifacts or otherwise cause damage to natural objects or living things.

• Confetti, rice, flowers, or eco alternatives cannot be thrown. We are responsible for keeping the area clean and respecting the wildlife.

• Guests must follow all park rules.

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