How To Elope In Jasper National Park

How to Elope in Jasper National Park

Imagine exchanging vows surrounded by towering peaks, pristine lakes, and whispering pines - a wedding ceremony that's as breathtaking as it is intimate. For couples seeking a truly unforgettable experience, eloping in Jasper National Park offers a perfect blend of romance and natural beauty. Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Jasper provides a stunning backdrop for couples ready to embark on their lifelong journey together. In this guide, we'll explore everything you need to know to plan your dream elopement in Jasper National Park.

1. You’ll need a Marriage License

   You can pick you a marriage license at an Alberta Registry Agent. 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 Banff Bureau Office HERE.

2. Permits

   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.

3. You’ll need a park pass

   To enter into Jasper National Park you need a park pass. You can buy a day pass or a Discovery pass that is valid for 12 months and basically pays for it’s self in a week, so it’s a great option if you are planning to explore Jasper or any near by Canadian National Parks either before or after your elopement. You can buy one ahead of time HERE or at the park gates.

4. Find your officiant

   There are specific requirements for who can officiate your elopement in Alberta. An officiant must be a legal officiant appointed by the Government of Alberta, a member of a church, or a Canadian resident who is over 18 years of age who has applied for and decided day of licensing for your ceremony.

   You can find a list of Alberta officiants HERE

   You can find all the information on having a friend or family member officiate your elopement HERE

   If you are already legally married you do not need an officiant.

5. Choose your witnesses

   You will need to have two witness over the age of 18 present for your ceremony and they must be available to sign your marriage license. Your witnesses must be fluent in English or a translator must be present. If you aren’t having any family or friends present you still need two witnesses! You can consider having your photographer and videographer (or other vendors) as witnesses. I’ve signed a few marriage licenses over the years.

6. Choose you perfect location

   Jasper has stunning mountains, lakes and forests. Jasper National Park boasts a plethora of picturesque locations for your elopement ceremony. From the shores of serene lakes like Maligne Lake to the majestic vistas of Mount Edith Cavell, the options are endless. Consider factors such as accessibility, privacy, and scenery when selecting your location. Popular spots like Pyramid Island and Athabasca Falls offer stunning views, while more secluded areas like Secret Beach provide intimacy and solitude. Some locations require hikes or varying length and difficulty, so you should consider the level of accessibility you are comfortable with for your elopement. There are also a lot of locations that offer unique experiences like DOG SLEDDING in the winter, HELICOPTERS, a lake cruise or canoeing. You could choose a location that means something to you and your partner as well. Some other things to consider are time of year and week. Jasper looks vastly different from summer to winter and is busiest during the summer months and on weekends.

   Here are some locations to consider:

   • Maligne Lake

   • Pyramid Island

   • Maligne Canyon

   • Edith Cavell

   • Athabasca Falls

   • Sunwapta Falls

   • Lake Annette

   Some locations require a reservation. You can find information on those locations HERE.

   
   Seasonal Considerations: Jasper experiences distinct seasons, each with its own unique charm. Whether you dream of exchanging vows against a backdrop of golden autumn leaves or a snowy winter wonderland, consider the seasonal nuances when planning your elopement. Spring and summer offer lush green landscapes, while fall brings vibrant foliage and winter provides a magical snowy setting.

7. Book accommodations

   Make sure to book accommodations well in advance, Jasper is a popular tourist destination and things book up quickly! Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, Jasper offers a variety of accommodations ranging from cozy cabins and boutique hotels to campsites and backcountry lodges. Consider logistics such as transportation, catering, and guest accommodations if you're inviting friends or family to join you for your elopement adventure. Local vendors and wedding planners can help you coordinate all the details for a seamless and stress-free experience. The closest airport is the Edmonton International Airport which is 360km from the town of Jasper, so to make your life easier and more stress free you’ll probably want to book accommodations in Jasper or the sourounding area. Travel times can significantly vary based on weather. Rental cars can be picked up from the airport and there are also group transit options.

   
   Hotels

   • Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

   • Alpine Village Cabin Resort

   • Glacier View Lodge

   • Jasper East Cabins

   • Bear Hill Lodge

   • Pyramid Lake Lodge

   Camping

   • Wapiti Campground

   • Whistlers Campground

   • Wabasso Campground

8. Find your dream vendors

   Working with talented vendors who can help you create your dream elopement is key! Here are some recommended vendors.

   
   Hire Local Vendors: Supporting local vendors not only contributes to the community but also ensures that you have experienced professionals who know the ins and outs of Jasper National Park. From photographers who can capture the ethereal beauty of your ceremony to local florists who can create arrangements inspired by the surrounding nature, Jasper has a wealth of talented individuals ready to make your elopement unforgettable.

   Find your dream vendors HERE.

Embrace the Adventure: Eloping in Jasper National Park is an adventure in itself. Consider incorporating outdoor activities into your celebration, such as a post-ceremony hike or a scenic canoe trip. The park offers endless opportunities for exploration and connection with nature, creating lasting memories for you and your partner. You can find more information on activities HERE.

What should you bring with you?

• Hiking shoes

• Water and snacks

• Bear spray

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

• 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

Eloping in Jasper National Park offers a unique and unforgettable wedding experience surrounded by some of the most spectacular scenery on Earth. Whether you're exchanging vows on a mountaintop at sunrise or saying "I do" beside a crystal-clear alpine lake, Jasper provides the perfect backdrop for your love story to unfold. With careful planning and a sense of adventure, your dream elopement in Jasper National Park is sure to be an experience you'll cherish for a lifetime.

You deserve the elopement of your dreams! It should be 100% about you, your way.

Reach out to start planning the elopement of your dreams.