Yoho National Park Elopement Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Activities To Do In Yoho National Park For Your Elopement

Sample All Day Yoho National Park Elopement Timelines

Yoho National Park Elopement Packages

Best Elopement Locations In Yoho National Park

Local Vendor Recommendations

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 Yoho National Park

Yoho 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 Yoho National Park

Do I need a permit to Elope in Yoho National Park?

To get legally married in Yoho National Park you need a marriage license and to fill out a Park’s Canada registration form to let them know when you’ll be eloping. Read on for more information.

How much does it cost to elope in Yoho National Park?

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?

No, unfortunately your friend or family member can’t officiate your ceremony.

How to

Plan Your Yoho National Park 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 Yoho 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, Banff 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? Yoho National Park 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 Yoho National Park

Yoho National Park 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 is some information on what to expect during each season to help you choose the best time of year for your elopement.

Winter

Mid November - Mid April

YNP 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 YNP 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 YNP 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.

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 Yoho National Park

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 Emerald Lake, for an hourly rate or bring your own. Rentals are on a first come, first serve basis.

Emerald Lake

Late May- Thanksgiving Weekend in October

$90

More info can be found HERE

* All boards of water in Yoho National Park and Kootenay are closed until March 31 2025 to prevent the spread of whirling disease. Please respect all closures in order to protect park waters.

Hiking

Yoho National Park 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 Yoho National Park for your elopement.

Food & Drink

There are so many great places to find food and drinks in Banff! A few of my favourites are Cilantro On The Lake, Mount Burgess Dinning Room, Truffle Pigs.

Yoho National Park 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

 The Best Locations For Your

Yoho National Park Elopement

Yoho National Park is one of the most beautiful places on earth! It has everything from alpine lakes and forests to the majestic Canadian Rocky Mountains. When choosing a location in Yoho National Park 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.

In the heart of the Canadian Rockies lies a pristine wilderness, a sanctuary of awe-inspiring landscapes, and a perfect backdrop for an intimate celebration of love. Yoho National Park, with its rugged peaks, turquoise lakes, thundering waterfalls, and iconic natural features, offers an array of breathtaking settings for couples seeking to exchange vows in a secluded and magical environment. For those looking to elope amidst nature's grandeur, here are some of the best locations within Yoho National Park:

These locations are easy drive-in locations that don’t require hiking.

Emerald Lake, Cilantro On The Lake & Emerald Lake Lodge: Nestled in a valley surrounded by towering mountains, Emerald Lake is a gem of Yoho National Park. With its striking emerald-colored waters and a backdrop of snow-capped peaks, this serene lake provides an idyllic setting for an intimate elopement ceremony. Whether exchanging vows on the shoreline or aboard a canoe gliding across the tranquil waters, couples are sure to be enchanted by the natural beauty of this enchanting locale. Cilantro On The Lake and Emerald Lake Lodge are the best venues for your post ceremony meal with family and friends or just the two of you.

Takakkaw Falls: Cascading from a height of 302 meters, Takakkaw Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in Canada and a spectacular setting for a romantic elopement. The thundering waters create a dramatic backdrop, evoking a sense of awe and wonder. Imagine saying "I do" amidst the mist and roar of the falls, with the verdant forests and towering cliffs as witnesses to your love. Closed yearly during the winter months.

Lake O'Hara: Accessible by reservation-only bus or a strenuous hike, Lake O'Hara is a hidden gem tucked away in the wilderness of Yoho National Park. Surrounded by towering peaks, alpine meadows, and mirrored waters, this pristine lake offers a sense of seclusion and tranquility, making it an ideal location for an intimate elopement ceremony. Exchange vows amidst the wildflowers, with the sound of alpine streams and the scent of pine filling the air.

Wapta Falls: Tumbling over a broad rock face, Wapta Falls is a majestic sight to behold and a romantic setting for an elopement ceremony. Located just a short hike from the trailhead, this impressive waterfall offers a sense of intimacy and serenity, with the rushing waters providing a soothing soundtrack for your vows.

Natural Bridge: Carved by the erosive forces of the Kicking Horse River, the Natural Bridge is a unique geological formation that offers a picturesque setting for an elopement ceremony. This natural arch of solid rock spans the turquoise waters of the river, creating a stunning backdrop for exchanging vows. With the sound of rushing water echoing in the background, couples can pledge their love amidst the beauty of this natural wonder.

Whether you envision exchanging vows amidst towering peaks, beside crystal-clear lakes, in the midst of thundering waterfalls, or against the backdrop of a natural bridge, Yoho National Park offers a myriad of breathtaking locations for an unforgettable elopement experience. With its pristine wilderness and awe-inspiring landscapes, this enchanting corner of the Canadian Rockies provides the perfect backdrop for celebrating love in its purest form. So, pack your bags, grab your beloved's hand, and embark on a romantic adventure amidst the natural splendor of Yoho National Park.

Local Vendor Recommendations

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

A curated list of preferred venues and vendors in Jasper National Park.

Venues:

Cilantro On The Lake

Emerald Lake Lodge

Officiants:

You can find a list of officiants in BC here.

 Marriage License

You can pick you a marriage license in Golden, BC or anywhere in BC. You or your partner will need to go in and apply for the license and show primary identification for both of you. You need to be over the age of 18. The fee is $100.

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 Canada 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.

Additional Permits & Licences

In addition to your marriage license you will also need to fill out THIS Park’s Canada registration form to let them know when you’ll be eloping and to agree to their terms of use for the park. Make sure you submit this form in advance so they have time to reply, I would recommend filling it out 2-4 weeks ahead of time at least. Some of the terms include having a maximum of 20 guess attend your ceremony, you and your guests complying will national park regulations at all times, everyone will need a park pass and must understand that you do not have exclusive rights to any area.

All businesses operating in the park need a valid business license as well. It is wise to ask them if they have one because if they don’t and a park ranger stops them they’ll be required to stop their service. I’ve heard some horror stories. It’s just not worth it to take the risk. Make sure all of your vendors are licensed to work in Banff National Park if that is where you are eloping.

Park Pass

You, your guests and vendors will all need vail park passes for the day of your elopement. You can purchase a pass online HERE or in person at the Banff park gate.

Ceremony Requirements

You can have a religious or civil ceremony for your elopement. There are specific requirements that you must meet in order for your ceremony to be considered valid by the province of British Columbia.

• You must have a valid BC 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

Yoho National Park

Getting to Yoho

The easiest way to get to Yoho National Park is to fly in the Calgary Airport YYC and rent a car. From the airport the town of Field is 175km via the Trans-Canada Highway AB-1 West. You can buy a park pass at the Banff park gate.

some of my favourite things

To Do In Yoho National Park

WHERE TO EAT

In Yoho National Park

Some Things You Should Pack for Your Yoho National Park 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 Yoho National Park is safe! However it’s always wise to think ahead and be prepared for all circumstances.

Wildlife

Banff 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 Alberta road conditions HERE. Find more information on mountain safety HERE.

There is also a live webcam at Emerald Lake Lodge that shows you weather conditions in real time.

Cell Phone Reception

There are many areas in Yoho National Park that don’t have cell phone reception, including the iconic Emerald Lake. 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.

Yoho National Park Rules

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

• Maximum 20 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.

are you ready to elope in Yoho?

Let Me Help You!

not only am i a photographer, but i'm also an elopement planner!