Hiking Elopement for the Adventurous Couples
Planning a wedding is not always black and white. While the traditional wedding may be perfect for many couples, the idea of choosing a wedding venue and planning out every detail for hundreds of people can be overwhelming, and it is not for everyone, and that’s okay.
A hiking elopement is becoming a popular choice for many couples who want to truly share an unforgettable experience with their partner as they share their vows. And there is no better place in the world than within the Canadian Rocky Mountains in Banff, Alberta. When you’re getting married, it’s an exciting day that should center around who you and your partner are through a personal and intimate experience. For those who love the outdoors or a great adventure, the hiking elopement (or wedding when you want to bring a crew) may be the best way to celebrate one of the most important days of your life.
Why Choose a Hiking Elopement
Getting married is a major milestone in your life and incorporating the elements you love is vital. If you and your partner love the outdoors, you likely know just how wonderful being in a serene and peaceful environment is. A hiking elopement is where you make the decision to hike one of your favorite trails and solidify your relationship with your partner by sharing your vows and making the marriage official.
You can call it an adventure wedding or even a hiking wedding, and you can bring the people closest to you who are up for an adventure. The possibilities are endless when you choose to host your wedding in nature. One of the best reasons to choose a hiking elopement is there aren’t really any rules aside from the park rules, of course. You get the opportunity to completely customize your experience to who you and your partner are and celebrate each other in places you love and feel connected to.
Tips to Help You Plan the Perfect Hiking Elopement Experience
If you know that a hiking elopement is the wedding experience for you, there are a few things to consider ensuring you are able to pull off your wedding without any issues. A hiking elopement is a pretty low-maintenance adventure to plan. Knowing what is involved can help you elevate the experience. Here are some tips on how to plan your dream hike elopement.
1. Choose Your Location and Hike Distance
You get to choose the backdrop of where you will share your vows. There are endless breathtaking locations in the Canadian Rockies to choose to hold your wedding. From Banff Nation Park to Jasper Nation Park, you can hike to one of many peaks, rivers, valleys, or meadows, and you get to choose the level of difficulty on your special day. Do you want a strenuous hike to maximize your adventure, or do you want something easy? Some of the easier trails have the best payoff, so you really can’t go wrong with whatever you decide.
2. Choose the People You Want to Share Your Day With
An elopement doesn’t mean you have to experience your wedding alone. Many people who choose to elope take a few people that mean the most to them. With a hike wedding, you want to prepare your guests to ensure they are ready to take on the challenge.
3. Choose an Adventurous Wedding Photographer
Your wedding is something you want to remember forever, and having wedding photos is the quintessential wedding experience. You will want to choose a photographer that not only specializes in weddings or elopements but also is an adventurous person. Choose someone willing and able to make it to whichever your dream location is.
4. Book Wedding Accommodations
You probably do not want to spend your wedding day driving for hours to remote locations, so choosing a cabin or an Airbnb near your destination is essential. Having a place to stay to store everything you need safely and a place to relax and restore after your wedding can make a difference.
5. Dress Comfortably and Pack Essentials
Hiking in dress clothing may be an uncomfortable experience. Be sure to wear comfortable clothing for the hike up and back but bring your wedding attire with you to change into. If you are bringing some friends and family, they can help. You’ll want to be sure to pack snacks and plenty of water for all joining you on your adventure, and be prepared for any emergency the outdoors may bring by including a health and safety kit.
Your hiking elopement can make for the wedding experience of a lifetime. Take your time and be prepared for anything to ensure your elopement can go on as planned, rain or shine. Enjoy and embrace the beautiful day you’ve planned with your partner and bask in all that nature offers.