Grand Teton National Park is located on the border of Wyoming. It’s such a beautiful national park to explore and an even more beautiful place for an elopement or intimate wedding. Everything from the wildlife to the landscapes blows my mind every time I’m in the park. In this guide, you’ll find everything that you need to know about having a Blacktail Ponds Overlook wedding.
A Blacktail Ponds Overlook Wedding
Disclaimer: Well known lakes are prohibited from being used as an elopement or ceremony location due to high popularity. However, some lakes are still accessible with a little bit of extra hiking (which I personally don’t mind doing). Blacktail Ponds Overlook is a scenic area just outside Grand Teton. The awesome thing about this spot is that it’s often overlooked by people. It’s perfect for ceremonies for that reason. You still get an epic view of the mountains while being immersed in the best nature of all (in my opinion).
Guests At Your Wedding
If you’re getting married within Grand Teton National Park, it’s recommended that your total party stay under 15 people. This includes your vendors that will be present as well as the bride and groom!
Do I Need an Officiant and Witness for My Blacktail Ponds Overlook Wedding?
Yes! For any elopement or intimate wedding in Wyoming, you will need an officiant as well as a minimum of two witnesses.
Permits For Your Wedding At Blacktail Ponds Overlook
In order to have a wedding in the national park, you’ll need to purchase a $200 permit. First, you need to complete the required Wedding Permit Application Form (PDF) and email the completed form to grte_visitor_services@nps.gov. Next, you’ll pay for the permit over the phone when they give you a call.
Your Wyoming Marriage License For Your Blacktail Ponds Overlook Wedding
In the past, couples that I’ve worked with usually get their marriage license in person in Jackson Hole. Jackson is located directly outside of the park. You’ll need to make an appointment at the County Clerk’s Office. The couple must appear in person, be 18 years of age or older, and present a picture ID. They also need a completed Marriage License Questionnaire (PDF). There is no waiting period in Wyoming, which means you can pick up your marriage license and get married on the same day. There is a $30 cash fee, or you can use your card and pay $31.50.
Weather in Grand Teton National Park
Weather plays a critical role in determining when you want to have your ceremony at the Grand Teton National Park.
Winter (November – April)
If you’re a lover of the snow, you’ll most likely be getting married during the winter months. However, there can be a few downsides to doing this. Most attractions in the park are closed and prices are usually higher in Jackson due to the increase in ski traffic. But sometimes there’s nothing more magical than a snowy elopement.
Spring (May)
Getting married in the spring usually means some snow still on the trails and less crowds. Some attractions still won’t be opened until late May, early June.
Summer (June – August)
Everyone knows that summer is a great time to visit the national park. Open trails, wildlife and open attractions also means a lot of visitors to the park. Even though the weather is absolutely beautiful during this time of year, I would hold off on having a wedding during these months. However, if you’re dead set on eloping during these months in the national park, I would stick to weekdays at sunrise.
Fall (September – October)
Last but not least is my favorite time of year in the Tetons. Fall is the best time to elope in Grand Teton National Park in my opinion!!! The crowds have decreased and there are a lot of wildlife and beautiful fall colors. There is still a chance of snow in October so September is going to be your best chance of getting hitched when the weather is still great.
Your Blacktail Ponds Overlook Wedding Photographer
I hope this guide was helpful to you as you’re navigating the planning process. The Grand Teton National Park is one of the most beautiful places on Earth and I would be honored to be your photographer for your ceremony. I only take on a limited amount of weddings and elopements per year so that I can make sure each of my couples gets the time and attention that they deserve. Fill out this form and I’ll help you with absolutely anything that I can! Check out these other blog posts if you’re considering other venues in the amazing town of Jackson.
