Weddings & Commitment Ceremonies in Grand Teton National Park: Your Guide -

💍 Weddings & Commitment Ceremonies in Grand Teton National Park: Your Guide

Planning a wedding or commitment ceremony in Grand Teton National Park can feel confusing at first — the rules, permits, and locations can be a lot to navigate. I see this question come up all the time from couples, so I wanted to create a clear guide with all your options in one place. Whether you’re eloping with just the two of you or hosting a small wedding with family, this guide walks you through everything you need to know.

1️⃣ Small Elopements & Dispersed Ceremony Permits (12 People or Fewer)

If you’re planning an elopement or a very small ceremony (up to 12 people total, including vendors), you can take advantage of the Small Dispersed Ceremony Permit.

What this means for you:

You can choose almost any location in the park (as long as it’s not restricted).
Your total group size must be 12 people or fewer, including your photographer, officiant, and anyone else attending.
This is perfect for intimate elopements where you want flexibility in location.

Popular locations for small elopements include:

Cathedral Group – Epic mountain backdrop, perfect for dramatic photos.
Cascade Canyon Turnout – Secluded, quiet, and stunning for evening ceremonies.
Glacier View Turnout – Easy access, classic Teton views.
Schwabacher Landing – Incredible reflections if you’re dreaming of water in your photos.
Windy Point – Iconic views and lots of space for photography.

These locations give you freedom to elope in the park without worrying about large crowds, while still having breathtaking scenery for your photos.

2️⃣ Reserved Site-Specific Ceremony Permits (More Guests, up to ~25–40 People)

If your ceremony is larger than 12 people, you’ll need a Reserved Site-Specific Permit. The park only allows weddings at six designated locations, and each location has a maximum guest count:

Colter Bay Swim Beach	~40	Large, family-friendly space
Schwabacher Landing	~25	Iconic water reflections
Mormon Row Historic District (North)	~40	Classic barns & Tetons
Mormon Row Historic District (South)	~25	Slightly smaller, more intimate
Mountain View Turnout	~25	Convenient access, great views
Glacier View Turnout	~25	Classic Teton backdrop
Snake River Overlook	~25	Dramatic mountain scenery

Key tips for Reserved Sites:

Applications open in December for the following year, and these spots fill quickly.
You’ll need to submit a Special Use Permit (SUP) with all details: date, location, guest count, vehicles, etc.
These sites are perfect for couples who want a classic Jackson Hole wedding with family and friends, while still enjoying the beauty of the park.

3️⃣ Tips for Planning in the Park

Timing matters: June through early October is ideal for accessibility and weather.
Weather can change fast: Even in summer, be prepared for wind, clouds, or sudden rain.
Scout locations for lighting and accessibility: Morning or evening light can make a huge difference in your photos.
Backup plans: Even for small groups, consider a backup location in case your first choice is inaccessible.

4️⃣ How I Help Couples Navigate This

As a Jackson Hole wedding photographer, I help couples:

Choose locations that fit your guest count and vision
Plan logistics for permits, timing, and photography
Make sure your day runs smoothly while keeping it stress-free and fun
Capture both candid moments and epic mountain views

✅ Final Thoughts

Grand Teton National Park weddings and elopements are unforgettable — but the rules can be tricky. By understanding your guest limits and available locations, you can confidently plan your ceremony and focus on what matters most: celebrating your love in one of the most beautiful places on Earth.

If you’re ready to start planning your Jackson Hole elopement or wedding, let’s talk — I’ll help you pick the perfect location and make your day completely effortless.