Updated: July 2026
This How to Elope in the Adirondacks guide has been completely revised to include a step-by-step planning process, updated permit information, budgeting advice, timeline examples, activity ideas, lodging recommendations, and links to more in-depth resources covering every stage of planning an Adirondack elopement.
Whether you’re just starting to explore the idea of eloping or you’re ready to begin planning, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from choosing the right season and location to building your timeline, planning unique activities, and creating a badass wedding day in the Adirondack Mountains.
Jump To:
- Why Elope in the Adirondacks?
- Traveling to the Adirondacks
- Step 1: Decide If You’re Planning an Elopement or Intimate Wedding
- Step 2: Envision What Your Adirondack Elopement Could Look Like
- Step 3: Choose the Best Time to Elope In The Adirondacks
- Step 4: Decide Who’s Coming
- Step 5: Hire an Adirondack Elopement Photographer
- Step 6: Choose Your Location
- Step 7: Set Your Budget
- Step 8: Book Your Air BnB
- Step 9: Choose Your Activities
- Step 10: Book the Rest of Your Vendors
- Step 11: Understand Permits, Rules & Leave No Trace
- Step 12: Build Your Timeline
- Step 13: Build a Backup Plan
- Step 14: Get Legally Married
- Step 15: Pack for Your Elopement
- How I Help Couples Plan Their Adirondack Elopement
Why Elope in the Adirondacks?
Whether you’re traveling from across the country or you’ve called Upstate New York home your whole life, the Adirondacks are hands down one of the best places to elope on the East Coast. Okay… I might be a little biased, but hear me out.
The Largest Protected Wilderness in the Lower 48
Covering nearly 6 million acres, the Adirondack Park is the largest publicly protected area in the contiguous United States. It’s even larger than Yellowstone, Yosemite, Grand Canyon, Glacier, and Great Smoky Mountains National Parks combined. That means endless mountains, lakes, waterfalls, forests, charming mountain towns, and thousands of places to explore.
A Location That Fits Every Kind of Couple
One of my favorite things about the Adirondacks is just how much variety there is. You can hike to a summit for sunrise, exchange vows next to a quiet lake, rent a luxury cabin tucked into the woods, spend the afternoon kayaking, or end your wedding day around a campfire under the stars. Whether you’re dreaming of a relaxed weekend away or a full-send adventure, there’s no shortage of experiences for your elopement day.
More Freedom Than Many National Parks
Unlike many National Parks, where permits, reservations, and strict ceremony rules are common, much of the Adirondack Park is publicly accessible and free to explore. While some locations do have their own regulations, many incredible ceremony spots require little more than thoughtful planning and a respect for Leave No Trace principles. That flexibility gives couples far more freedom to create an elopement day that is unique and special to them.
An Incredible Destination Year-Round
And because the Adirondacks experience all four seasons, every time of year offers something completely different. From colorful fall foliage and warm summer lake days to snowy winter landscapes and powerful spring waterfalls, there’s no shortage of stunning backdrops for your wedding day. No matter what kind of experience you’re chasing, chances are you’ll find a place here that feels like it was made just for you.
Traveling to the Adirondacks
If you’re traveling from out of state, don’t worry, the Adirondacks are surprisingly easy to get to. Most couples fly into Albany, New York City, Plattsburgh, or Adirondack Regional Airport before renting a car and making the scenic drive to wherever they’re staying.
Because the Adirondack Park covers nearly six million acres, where you fly into depends on the part of the park you plan to explore. If you’re not sure where to stay or which airport makes the most sense, I’ll help you narrow that down during the planning process.
One thing to keep in mind is that cell service can be limited in parts of the Adirondacks, especially on hiking trails and in more remote areas. I always recommend downloading offline maps ahead of time so you don’t have to rely on reception once you’re out exploring.
Step 1: Decide If You’re Planning an Elopement or Intimate Wedding
One of the biggest misconceptions about eloping is that there’s a magic guest count that determines whether you’re having an elopement or an intimate wedding. Honestly, it isn’t that simple.
The biggest difference isn’t necessarily how many people are there, it’s the type of experience you want to have. Do you picture spending the day focused almost entirely on each other, or do you imagine celebrating with your closest family and friends? Either way both are wonderful ways to celebrate your wedding day, it just depends on the type of experience you want to create.
Elopements
Elopements are usually centered around the experience. Most include just the couple or a few of their closest loved ones, giving you the freedom to build a day around what you actually enjoy doing. That might mean hiking to a mountain summit, kayaking across a quiet lake, renting a cozy cabin, or spending the entire weekend exploring the Adirondacks together.
Because there are fewer people to coordinate, elopements also give you more flexibility with locations, timelines, and weather if plans need to change.
Intimate Weddings
Intimate weddings still focus on creating a personal experience, but they usually include a larger group of family and friends and include many wedding traditions. You might exchange vows with 30 of your favorite people before sharing dinner at an Airbnb or celebrating at a small venue nearby.
While there are a few more logistics involved, intimate weddings often strike a nice balance between having an adventure and celebrating with your favorite people.
Which One Is Right for You?
An elopement is probably the better fit if your priority is privacy, flexibility, and building the day around an adventure.
If celebrating with your closest family and friends is one of the most important parts of your wedding day, an intimate wedding might be exactly what you’re looking for.
If you’re still figuring out which category you fit into..that’s okay you don’t have to! Some couples hike a mountain alone before meeting their families for dinner, while others invite just their parents to witness their vows. Your wedding day should be built around what feels right for you, not any other person’s definition of what that should look like.
Still deciding if an elopement is the right fit? Here’s a closer look at what it’s actually like planning an Adirondack elopement.
Step 2: Envision What Your Adirondack Elopement Could Look Like
One of the best parts about eloping is that there is no specific way of doing it. Your elopement day can be as adventurous, relaxed, luxurious, or laid-back as you want it to be. Before you start choosing locations, seasons, or vendors, it’s worth taking a step back and thinking about what you actually want your wedding day to look like.
Do you picture hiking to a summit before sunrise? Renting a luxury cabin for the weekend with your closest family? Spending the afternoon kayaking across a quiet pond? Or maybe your perfect day ends around a campfire with pizza and s’mores instead of a crowded dance floor.
To get your ideas flowing, here are a few examples of what an Adirondack elopement can look like.
Sunrise Summit Elopement
If you’re up for an early morning adventure, there’s something pretty incredible about watching the Adirondacks wake up around you. Hike to a summit before sunrise, exchange your vows as the first light hits the mountains, then spend the rest of the day hiking, grabbing breakfast in town, or exploring together.
Perfect for couples who: love hiking, want maximum privacy, and don’t mind an early alarm.
Waterfall Elopement
If you love the sound of rushing water and don’t mind getting your feet a little wet, a waterfall elopement is hard to beat. Exchange your vows beside the falls, enjoy a picnic nearby, or even cool off with a swim if you’re visiting during the summer.
Perfect for couples who: want an adventurous day without necessarily hiking a mountain.
Lakefront Elopement
Picture saying your vows along the shoreline before spending the afternoon canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing by the water. Adirondack lakes offer some of the most peaceful ceremony locations in the park and are perfect for couples who want a slower pace.
Perfect for couples who: love the water and want a laid-back adventure.
Luxury Cabin Elopement
Adventure doesn’t always mean hiking ten miles. Rent a beautiful cabin with mountain views, invite your closest family, have a private ceremony nearby, and celebrate afterward with a private chef, bonfire, hot tub, and a weekend away together.
Perfect for couples who: want a relaxed experience with a little more comfort and plenty of quality time.
Winter Elopement
Winter completely transforms the Adirondacks. Snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, cozy cabins, and colorful winter sunrises create an entirely different experience than any other season. Spend the day snowshoeing, skiing, ice skating, or simply enjoying the quiet that comes with fresh snowfall.
Perfect for couples who: love winter and don’t mind bundling up for an unforgettable day.
Two-Day Elopement
One of my favorite options for couples who want the best of both worlds is splitting everything across two days. Spend one day celebrating with family, then dedicate the second day entirely to yourselves. That could mean hiking a mountain, kayaking across a lake, watching the sunrise together, or simply slowing down and soaking it all in without worrying about anyone else’s schedule.
Perfect for couples who: want to include family without sacrificing private time together.
If you love the idea of slowing things down check out how this couple designed their Two-Day High Peak Elopement.
Need a little more inspiration? Browse Real Adirondack Elopements to see how other couples personalized their wedding days.
Step 3: Choose the Best Time to Elope In The Adirondacks
One of my favorite things about the Adirondacks is that they never look the same twice. Visit in July and you’ll be swimming in alpine lakes. Come back in late September and those same mountains are covered in fall color. Visit again in February and everything is buried beneath fresh snow. Every season has something completely different to offer, so here’s a quick overview to help you narrow it down.
Spring (March-May)
Best for roaring waterfalls, blooming wildflowers, quieter trails, and fewer crowds. Just be prepared for muddy conditions, black flies, and unpredictable weather.
Summer (June-August)
Perfect for hiking, swimming, kayaking, boating, camping, and long daylight hours. Summer offers the most flexibility for outdoor adventures, but you’ll also encounter warmer temperatures, afternoon thunderstorms, and busier weekends.
Fall (September-October)
The most popular season for colorful foliage, crisp air, comfortable hiking weather, and incredible mountain views. Just keep in mind that peak foliage also brings larger crowds and accommodations that book up quickly.
Winter (November-February)
Ideal for couples looking for maximum privacy, snow-covered landscapes, cozy cabins, skiing, snowshoeing, and frozen waterfalls. Winter can be absolutely magical, but it also requires more planning, flexibility, and the right cold-weather gear.
One last thing to think about is sunrise versus sunset. If privacy is your biggest priority, I almost always recommend sunrise. You’ll usually have fewer people around, cooler temperatures, and some of the most beautiful skies of the day. Sunset is just as incredible, especially if you’d rather enjoy a slower morning, but you’re more likely to share popular locations with other hikers and visitors.
If you’re still trying to decide which season fits your vision best and how far in advance you should start planning, I’ve put together a complete guide that breaks down everything you need to know about When to Elope in the Adirondacks.
Step 4: Decide Who’s Coming
If you’ve been going back and forth about who to invite, trust me, you’re not alone. Family expectations, traditions, and the fear of disappointing people can make this one of the hardest decisions you’ll make while planning your elopement. I’ve been there myself, and it’s definitely not something I take lightly.
Questions to Ask Before Finalizing Your Guest List
Before you start putting together a guest list, here are a few questions worth asking yourselves:
- How much of the day do we want to spend together versus with our guests?
- Can our family physically get to the location we’re picturing?
- If we want to get married on a mountain or at sunrise, will our guests actually enjoy that experience?
- Are we bringing enough people that we’ll need permits, multiple vehicles, or extra planning?
- Where will everyone stay, and will we all fit at the same Airbnb?
- If we’re bringing kids, are we okay with the extra logistics that come with them?
- If we’re bringing our dog, can they stay at our lodging and are they allowed at our ceremony location?
These questions are simply things to think through before making your decision.
One thing I’ve noticed after photographing both elopements and intimate weddings is that, generally speaking, the more guests you invite, the more your attention naturally shifts toward hosting everyone instead of simply enjoying each other. That doesn’t mean inviting family is a bad choice, it just means it’s worth thinking about how you want your day to feel before you decide who’s coming.
Remember: There Isn’t One Right Answer
The good news is that you don’t always have to choose one or the other. Some couples invite family to their ceremony and dinner, then spend the next day hiking a mountain or exploring the Adirondacks together. Others exchange private vows at sunrise before meeting everyone later for a celebration. There are plenty of ways to include the people you love while still carving out time that’s just for the two of you.
Still trying to decide? Check out my guide on How to Elope with Family for ideas on balancing private time with celebrating alongside the people who matter most.
Step 5: Hire an Adirondack Elopement Photographer
One of the first things I recommend booking is your photographer. Not just because photographers book out quickly, but because the right elopement photographer does so much more than just taking photos.
If you’re planning an Adirondack elopement, I’d encourage you to find someone who specializes in elopements, not just weddings, and someone you genuinely click with. At the end of the day, you’ll spend more time with your photographer than almost anyone else, so it should feel like hanging out with a friend, not someone following you around with a camera.
Hiring someone who truly knows the Adirondacks is huge. Not just someone who’s photographed here a handful of times, but someone who’s constantly out exploring, hiking new trails, checking out different areas, and finding those off-the-beaten-path locations that most people never even know exist. They should understand how the seasons change the landscape, which trails get packed with people, which locations work well for families or dogs, and how to match you with a place that actually fits the kind of wedding day you want, not just take you to the same popular spots everyone else visits.
Beyond locations, they should also help you build a timeline that feels relaxed and flexible, recommend trusted vendors, suggest great places to stay, navigate permits and local regulations, and constantly monitor the weather leading up to your day. A good photographer should already have backup plans ready to go if conditions change.
The biggest thing I’d pay attention to, though, is how you feel after your first conversation. Did they spend the call learning about the two of you, your relationship and the kind of experience you actually want? Or did they spend the entire time trying to sell you on extra hours and add-ons?
Your photographer should be invested in helping you create an incredible elopement day, not just delivering beautiful photos. The images are important, but the experience should always come first. After your first conversation, you should feel excited, confident, and like the entire planning process just got a whole lot easier.
Want to see what it’s actually like working together? Learn more about my planning process and how I help couples create personalized Adirondack elopements.
Step 6: Choose Your Location
Choosing your Adirondack elopement location is one of the most exciting parts of planning.
The Adirondacks are made up of thousands of incredible places to explore, and every region has something a little different to offer. You might find yourself drawn to the towering High Peaks around Keene Valley, the lakes and mountain views surrounding Lake Placid, the quieter forests and waterways near Saranac Lake, or the southern Adirondacks around Lake George.
Popular Doesn’t Always Mean The Best
One thing I always remind couples is that the most popular spot on TikTok or Instagram isn’t automatically the best place to elope. Those locations are popular for a reason, but they’re also usually the busiest. One of the biggest advantages of working with someone who truly knows the Adirondacks is finding places that give you the same epic views without feeling like you’re waiting in line to say your vows.
Always Have a Backup Plan
When I help couples choose a location, I usually narrow it down to three solid options instead of putting all our eggs in one basket. That gives us flexibility if the weather changes, a trail is unexpectedly busy, or we decide another location makes more sense for your day.
Maybe that’s hiking Cascade Mountain for sunrise, exchanging vows beside Heart Lake, taking in the views from Whiteface, relaxing at a quiet lakeside cabin, or finding an overlook that most visitors would never think to stop at. Having a few great options gives us the flexibility to adapt while still creating an incredible day.
If you prioritize privacy on your elopement day here are some of my favorite alternatives to the Adirondacks’ busiest ceremony locations.
Need help narrowing it down? Explore my complete guide to the best mountains, lakes, waterfalls, cabins, and hidden gems for an Adirondack elopement.
Step 7: Set Your Budget
One of the biggest misconceptions about eloping is that it’s always cheap. The reality is your budget depends entirely on the type of day you’re planning. A simple ceremony with just the two of you will look very different than a two-day experience with family, a luxury cabin, a private chef, and a full day of photography.
Rather than trying to hit a specific number, I always encourage couples to decide where they want to invest and where they’re happy to keep things simple.
Where I’d Spend More
Personally, these are the areas I’d prioritize:
- Photography – Your photographer isn’t just documenting the day. They’re helping with locations, timelines, permits, weather, and making sure everything runs smoothly.
- Lodging – You’ll likely spend more time here than you think, so choose a place you’re genuinely excited to stay in that also photographs beautifully.
- Experiences – Whether that’s kayaking, hiking, a private chef, skiing, or adding an extra day in the Adirondacks, these are the things that make your wedding day feel unique.
- Food – Celebrate with a meal you’re excited about, whether that’s pizza after a hike or a private chef at your cabin.
Where I’d Save
If you’re trying to stay within a budget, these are usually the first things I’d simplify:
- Decor – The Adirondacks are already your backdrop, and honestly, the decor is probably the last thing you’ll remember.
- Large Floral Installations – A bouquet and boutonniere are often all you need. I also see a lot of couples DIY their florals nowadays.
- Wedding Favors – Most guests won’t miss them, and they’re an easy place to save.
- Reception Dinner – Instead of renting out an expensive venue, consider catering, hiring a private chef, or doing a home-cooked family-style dinner at your Airbnb.
- Reception Extras – Skip anything you’re only including because you feel like you’re supposed to.
If you’re curious what Adirondack elopements actually cost, including real budget examples and average vendor pricing, check out my complete guide on How Much Does It Cost to Elope in the Adirondacks?
Step 8: Book Your Air BnB
Once you’ve narrowed down the general area for your elopement, it’s time to find a place to stay. Whether that’s an Air BnB, VRBO, cabin, lodge, hotel, or campsite, your lodging often becomes much more than just somewhere to sleep.
It’s where you’ll get ready in the morning, relax after your ceremony, spend time with family, or end the night soaking in a hot tub under the stars. It can also serve as an incredible backup ceremony location if the weather decides not to cooperate.
One thing I always recommend is looking for lodging that could comfortably accommodate your ceremony if you needed it to. Some couples intentionally choose a cabin with mountain views or a beautiful backyard so they know they have a Plan B without sacrificing the experience.
Where you stay ultimately depends on your priorities. Some couples want a luxury cabin with enough space to host their entire family, while others are perfectly happy in a tiny cabin tucked away in the woods because they’d rather put more of their budget toward experiences.
When I’m helping couples find lodging, I usually narrow things down based on a few simple questions:
- What’s your budget?
- How many nights are you staying?
- How many people need a place to sleep?
- What amenities are important to you? (Hot tub, lake access, mountain views, fire pit, pet-friendly, etc.)
- Would you like your lodging to work as a backup ceremony location?
Answering those questions first usually saves couples hours of scrolling through Airbnb listings.
If You Plan to Have Your Ceremony at Your Lodging
Before booking, make sure you:
- Confirm the property can comfortably accommodate everyone attending.
- Reach out to the host and explain your plans. Some properties don’t allow “events,” but a small ceremony with a handful of guests may be perfectly acceptable if discussed ahead of time.
- Follow any rules or occupancy limits the property owner has in place.
Step 9: Choose Your Activities
One of my favorite parts of planning an elopement is choosing the activities you’ll do throughout the day. This is what transforms your wedding from a ceremony and a portrait session into an exciting experience.
Instead of asking yourselves, “What are we supposed to do?” ask, “What do we actually enjoy doing together?”
Maybe that’s hiking to a summit, kayaking across a lake, skiing in the winter, grabbing a craft beer, cooking dinner together at your cabin, or simply sitting by a campfire talking under the stars. It doesn’t have to be adventurous just for the sake of being adventurous. Even the little things that are unique to your relationship can become part of your wedding day.
One of my favorite questions to ask couples is, “If I followed you around on a perfect Saturday together, what would we be doing?” That’s usually where the best ideas come from.
If you’re looking for a little inspiration, here are some of my favorite Adirondack elopement activities:
Adventurous
- Hiking
- Kayaking
- Paddleboarding
- Swimming
- Cliff jumping
- Snowshoeing
- Skiing or snowboarding
- Racing UTVs
- Snowmobiling
- See the Adirondacks by Plane or Helicopter
- Chartered Boat Tour
Relaxed
- Sunrise coffee
- Campfires
- Stargazing
- Pizza after a hike
- Visiting a brewery
- Strolling through a farmers market
- Painting
- Reading together
- Writing letters to each other
- Line dancing
- Hot Air Balloon ride
Remember, your elopement day doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. The best activities are usually the ones that you already love doing together, just with a wedding dress, a suit, and a whole lot more excitement.
Step 10: Book the Rest of Your Vendors
Now that you’ve got the big pieces of your elopement planned, it’s time to start booking the rest of your vendor team.
One of my favorite things about eloping is that you don’t need a laundry list of vendors just because it’s what’s expected. Instead, you get to choose the people and services that are actually going to make your day more fun, more relaxed, or just plain easier.
Not every elopement needs every vendor on this list and honestly, that’s kind of the beauty of it.
Depending on the kind of day you’re planning, that might include:
- Hair & Makeup Artist
- Florist
- Officiant
- Videographer
- Private Chef
- Live Musician
- Kayak or Canoe Rentals
- Boat Charter
- Transportation
- Bakery or Desserts
One thing I’d really encourage you to think about is whether each vendor is adding something to your day or if you’re only booking them because you feel like you’re supposed to. If you’d rather spend your money on a killer cabin, a private chef, or an extra day exploring the Adirondacks than on a three-tier wedding cake or elaborate décor, I’d say go for it. That’s one of the biggest perks of eloping, you get to make your own rules.
If you’re planning a summer or fall elopement, I’d recommend reaching out to your vendors sooner rather than later. Hair and makeup artists, florists, musicians, and private chefs can book up surprisingly fast during peak wedding season.
Step 11: Understand Permits, Rules & Leave No Trace
One of the biggest misconceptions about how to elope in the Adirondacks is that you can simply get married anywhere. While much of the Adirondack Park is public land, every location has its own rules, and depending on where you’re planning to elope, you may need a permit, reservation, or special permission.
For example, locations like Whiteface Mountain, Heart Lake (ADK Loj), Marcy Field, and the Adirondack Mountain Reserve (AMR) all have their own policies regarding ceremonies, reservations, or public access. On the other hand, many areas throughout the Adirondacks don’t require any permits at all. It really depends on the specific location, the size of your group, and what you’re planning to do.
Feeling discouraged because your dream location has permits, reservations, or crowds? Don’t worry, some of my favorite ceremony locations are actually the lesser-known alternatives. Check out my guide to popular Adirondack elopement locations and the hidden gems I recommend instead.
This is another reason why hiring an Adirondack elopement photographer who knows the area can make the planning process much easier. Part of my job is helping couples understand what rules apply to the locations they’re considering so there aren’t any surprises later on.
No matter where you decide to elope, it’s also important to follow Leave No Trace principles. That means respecting the environment, staying on established trails, packing out everything you bring in, and leaving the location exactly as you found it so future couples can enjoy it too.
If you’re looking for a full breakdown of permits, reservations, and legal requirements for getting married throughout the Adirondacks, check out my complete guide below.
Step 12: Build Your Timeline
One of the biggest benefits of eloping is that your timeline doesn’t have to follow a traditional wedding schedule. You’re not trying to squeeze a ceremony, cocktail hour, reception, speeches, dances, and cake cutting into one day. Instead, you get to build a timeline around the things you actually want to do.
One of the biggest lessons I learned from my own elopement was not to underestimate how much time we’d want together. I only hired my photographer for four hours, and if I could do it all over again, I’d book more time. The day went by so much faster than I expected, and looking back, I wish we’d had more time to slow down instead of constantly watching the clock.
That’s one of the biggest reasons I build timelines with plenty of breathing room. I never want couples to feel rushed from one thing to the next. Your wedding day should feel relaxed, flexible, and leave room for the unexpected.
Here are a few example timelines to give you an idea of what’s possible.
Half-Day Elopement
- Getting ready at your Airbnb
- First look On the property
- Ceremony in a nearby field or lakeside location
- Family photos
- Couples portraits on Whiteface Mountain
Full-Day Adventure Elopement
- Getting ready & detail photos
- First look at Air Bnb
- Hike to your ceremony location
- Ceremony
- Summit portraits
- Hike back down
- Head to a local brewery
- Private chef dinner at Air Bnb
- Campfire under the stars
Sunrise Elopement
- Early morning getting ready
- Headlamp hike before dawn
- Finish getting dressed at the summit
- Sunrise ceremony
- Breakfast & coffee on the mountain
- Hike down
- Waterfall stop for portraits & champagne
- Pizza and bowling in town
- Relax back at your Airbnb
Sunset Elopement
- Slow morning with coffee
- Getting ready portraits & details
- First look at Air Bnb
- Family ceremony at a local field
- Family portraits
- Family style dinner together
- Sunset hike
- Couples portraits
- Dessert overlooking the mountains
- Headlamp hike down
Two-Day Elopement
Day One
- Getting ready portraits & details
- First look on property
- Ceremony with family on property
- Family portraits
- Cocktail hour
- Catered family dinner
Day Two
- Early morning hike at dawn
- Change into wedding attire
- Private vows at sunrise
- First dance
- Breakfast on the summit
- Waterfall stop
- Afternoon swim
Want to see what a real two-day Adirondack elopement looks like? Check out this adventure elopement from start to finish.
These aren’t meant to be copied exactly. Every couple’s timeline ends up looking a little different depending on the season, location, guest count, and the activities they want to include. The goal isn’t to pack as much as possible into one day, it’s to build a timeline that gives you plenty of time to actually enjoy everything you’ve planned.
Step 13: Build a Backup Plan
Building a backup plan goes hand in hand with creating your timeline. The good news is that elopements are usually much easier to adapt than traditional weddings, which gives us more flexibility if the weather changes, a road closes, trail conditions aren’t safe, or something unexpected happens.
One of my jobs as your photographer isn’t just documenting the day, it’s helping you navigate all of those “what if” situations before they ever become stressful.
Choose Lodging That Can Double as a Backup Location
A cabin or Airbnb with mountain views, a covered porch, large windows, or a cozy interior can become the perfect backup ceremony location if the weather doesn’t cooperate. You can still exchange vows, pop champagne, have your first dance, and celebrate without sacrificing the experience. Just make sure your host allows a small ceremony or gathering if that becomes necessary.
Rain Doesn’t Always Mean Plan B
Rain doesn’t automatically ruin an elopement. In fact, some of my favorite elopement photos have happened in light rain.
I always keep clear umbrellas with me, so if the weather is safe and you’re up for embracing it, we can continue with the day and create some really incredible images. If the weather becomes unsafe, we’ll adjust the plan instead. I’m constantly watching the radar and making decisions based on what’s safest and what will give you the best experience. Check out how this couple embraced their rainy Adirondack Elopement.
Be Willing to Adjust the Timeline
Sometimes the easiest solution is simply moving things around. If sunset is looking stormy but sunrise is clear, we may decide to start earlier. We can move your ceremony, switch the order of activities, or wait for a storm to pass before heading out.
This is one of the reasons I don’t build rigid, minute-by-minute timelines. Leaving breathing room makes it much easier to adapt without the day feeling rushed.
Always Have More Than One Location
Weather isn’t the only reason plans change, roads close, trail conditions change, summits become crowded, and sometimes a location just isn’t the right fit that day.
That’s why I’m always transparent with couples about the pros, cons, and potential risks of every location we’re considering. I never want you to feel like there’s only one place your day can happen. We always have additional locations in mind, so if we need to pivot, we’re excited about the backup plan just as much as the original one.
Prepare for the Unexpected
If you’re planning a hiking elopement or another adventure activity, being prepared is important. Thanks to my career in law enforcement, I have training in basic first aid and emergency response, and I always carry a first-aid kit with me. Hopefully it never leaves my backpack, but I’d rather have it and not need it than need it and not have it. I’ll also help you prepare ahead of time with the right gear, plenty of water, extra layers, and realistic expectations for the conditions we’ll be hiking in.
Trust the Process
The goal of a backup plan isn’t to expect something to go wrong. It’s to remove the stress if something does.
The Adirondacks are unpredictable, and that’s part of what makes them so incredible. Some of my favorite elopements have looked completely different than what we originally planned because we embraced the conditions instead of fighting them. As long as you’re open to being flexible, I’ll be there every step of the way to guide you, adjust the plan when needed, and make sure you still have an incredible experience.
Step 14: Get Legally Married
Don’t worry, the legal side of getting married in the Adirondacks is actually much simpler than most couples expect.
If you’re planning to legally marry in New York, you’ll need to:
- Obtain a New York marriage license
- Wait 24 hours after receiving your license before your ceremony
- Have your ceremony performed by an authorized officiant
- Have at least one witness sign your marriage license
- Return your completed marriage license to the same clerk’s office where it was issued within five days of your ceremony
If that sounds like a lot, don’t stress. I walk all of my couples through the process and have put together a complete guide covering everything you need to know, from where to get your marriage license and who can legally officiate your ceremony to permits, witnesses, and New York’s marriage laws.
Step 15: Pack for Your Elopement
Packing for your elopement looks a little different than packing for a traditional wedding. Depending on your location, the season, and the activities you’ve planned, you may be hiking to a summit, paddling across a lake, snowshoeing through the woods, or simply exploring one of the many scenic spots around the Adirondacks.
We’ll put together a personalized packing list during the planning process, but here’s a good place to start.
Year-Round Essentials
No matter what time of year you’re eloping, I recommend bringing:
- Marriage license
- Rings
- Vow books
- Comfortable hiking shoes (if needed)
- Plenty of water and snacks
- Portable phone charger
- Sunscreen
- Small first-aid kit
- Headlamp (for sunrise or sunset adventures)
- Small touch-up kit (makeup, hairbrush, tissues, safety pins, etc.)
- Any medications you may need
Spring
Spring can be one of the most beautiful times to elope in the Adirondacks, but it’s also one of the muddiest.
I recommend packing:
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Rain jacket
- Extra socks
- Bug spray (especially later in the season)
- Warm layers for chilly mornings
- Ziplock bags to protect electronics and vow books
Summer
Summer is perfect for adventure, but it can also be hot, humid, and buggy.
Don’t forget:
- Lightweight clothing
- Rain jacket
- Electrolytes or hydration packets
- Bug spray
- Swimsuit and towel (if you’re planning to swim)
- Sandals or water shoes
- Sunglasses
Fall
Fall weather can change quickly, especially in the mountains.
Bring:
- Warm layers
- Gloves
- Hat
- Rain jacket
- Extra socks
- Hand warmers for later in the season
Winter
Winter elopements are absolutely magical, but they require a little more preparation.
Make sure you have:
- Insulated boots
- Winter jacket
- Warm base layers
- Hat and gloves
- Hand and toe warmers
- Microspikes or snowshoes (depending on your location)
- Extra dry clothes for after your adventure
The weather in the Adirondacks can change quickly no matter the season, so it’s always better to bring an extra layer than wish you had one later.
And don’t worry if you don’t already own all of this gear. During the planning process, I’ll help you figure out exactly what you’ll need based on your location, the season, and everything we’ve planned for your day. There’s no sense buying a bunch of equipment you may never use again.
Planning to hike in your wedding attire? Here’s how to prepare for a hiking elopement in the Adirondacks.
How I Help Couples Plan Their Adirondack Elopement
Planning an Adirondack elopement can feel like a lot at first. There are thousands of places to explore, hundreds of trails, permits to think about, weather to watch, timelines to build, and a million little decisions in between.
But I’m here to tell you that you don’t need to have your crap together to do this, and you definitely don’t have to figure all of this out alone.
When you work with me you get someone who’s completely obsessed with this stuff. I could spend hours digging through maps looking for hidden ceremony locations, comparing Airbnbs, building timelines, brainstorming fun activities, and figuring out all the little details to make your day authentic to you. And I just happen to take photos too.
The process starts with getting to know each other through in-depth questionnaires, planning calls, and plenty of conversations along the way. I take the time to really learn about each of you individually, your relationship, and your vision for your elopement day because I genuinely believe every elopement should look different. My goal is to help you design a customized elopement day that doesn’t feel like some generic itinerary copied from another photographer’s website.
Once I have a good idea of what you’re envisioning, I’ll help you with every piece of the puzzle, including:
- Helping you narrow down the best season based on your priorities
- Scouting hidden-gem ceremony locations and epic views
- Helping you compare Airbnbs and cabins until we find the perfect fit
- Building a flexible timeline that leaves room to actually enjoy your day
- Brainstorming activities that sound fun to you
- Navigating permits and logistics
- Watching the weather and creating backup plans
- Building a personalized packing list
- Answering every random question that pops into your head along the way
- Bringing a backpack full of backup items on your wedding day because someone always forgets something
One thing couples absolutely love is the Basecamp Planning Portal. Instead of trying to remember which email had your timeline or where I sent that cabin recommendation three months ago, everything lives in one place. Your questionnaires, planning resources, location guide, elopement guide, timeline, vendor recommendations, packing lists, and everything else we build together stays organized inside your own personal planning portal.
As someone who also eloped, I know exactly what it feels like to want something different. Traditional weddings felt overwhelming to me, and chances are that’s exactly why you’re here too. The ironic part is that once couples decide to elope, they sometimes end up feeling overwhelmed all over again because now they’re trying to plan an adventure instead of a wedding.
That’s exactly why I do what I do.
All you have to do is say “hell yes”and I’ll help you with the rest!
