The Complete Guide to Getting Married in Banff National Park
Getting married in Banff National Park is nothing short of spectacular! No matter where, when and how, there’s something magical about tying-the-knot in the mountains. When couples start thinking about getting married in the mountains, there’s always so many questions and a feeling of “where do I start?”, especially for couples that are making the trip from out of town.
Questions like this may feel all too familiar:
“How do I get married in Banff?”
“Do I need a permit to get married in Banff National Park?”
“Where’s the best mountain views for my outdoor ceremony?”
“Where are the best locations for wedding photos?”
Of course there’s no right or wrong way to go about designing your dream day and we’re simply here to lay out some useful information to get the ball rolling and spark some ideas for you on what’s possible. Hopefully the info here can help answer some of these questions for you. This is by no means all of the information you could find but we’ve kept things very specific to Banff National Park. There’s lots of other popular options if you’d like to explore the mountains of Yoho, Jasper and Waterton National Parks and Kananaskis.
How to legally get married in Banff
If you are planning to legally marry in Banff National Park, you will need to apply for a marriage license within 3 months of your actual wedding date. You can pick up your marriage license from the Banff Registry office upon your arrival in Banff. You and your partner will be required to provide your personal info, your parents info and if either of the couple have previously divorced, you will need a copy of the divorce certificate. You can find all the details from the Banff Registry. On the day of your wedding, just don’t forget to bring it along with you for your wedding commissioner!
Regulations for Weddings in Banff National Park
It’s no surprise that the landscape and beautiful scenery in Banff National Park are a popular choice for wedding ceremonies and elopements. When you’re within the boundaries of the park, and wanting to use an outdoor public space for your ceremony, it’s important to be mindful of the conditions and regulations in place. In a nutshell, you must limit the number of participants attending an elopement or outdoor standing ceremony to a maximum of 20 people. You also cannot reserve or get exclusive use of a designated area for your ceremony. Finally, you must complete a wedding ceremony application form for Banff National Park so they know where you’ll be and when you’ll be there.
There are of course ways to get married with more than 20 guests with a designated outdoor venue site, or an indoor venue. Continue reading to find out more.
Outdoor Wedding Venues & Locations in Banff National Park
When thinking about an outdoor wedding ceremony in Banff there’s so many options to choose from. Everything from plateau viewpoints for over 100 guests to discrete backcountry lakes for your intimate elopement...Banff has it all. In no particular order, here’s some of the most popular outdoor venues in Banff National Park.
Getting Married Outdoors Within the Town of Banff
If you plan to have more than 20 guests and want to reserve a designated area, you can book one of these 3 sites in the Town of Banff.
Tunnel Mountain Reservoir
Capacity 150 guests max. We love this ceremony location as it has some of the best uninterrupted mountain views for your special day. It’s a real show stopper, especially for wedding guests who haven’t had the chance to visit Banff before. There is no power or shelter and the area has limited parking available.
Central Park Gazebo
Capacity 200 guests max. This offers a beautiful Gazebo for your ceremony, in the heart of downtown Banff. Expect some onlookers on the outskirts of the park during Summer.
The Fenlands Meadow
Capacity 300 max. This is a more intimate ceremony space, surrounded by forest and fenland. There’s plenty of parking for guests and you can arrange for an indoor weather alternative at extra cost.
Getting Married Outdoors Outside the Town of Banff
Lake Louise
Lake Louise is such a great space to blend accessibility and adventure. The backdrop can be woodland and forest, the Chateau and of course, the incredible Victoria Glacier. Whilst there are indoor options with the Chateau Lake Louise, we love that you can hold an intimate ceremony next to the turquoise waters without needing to book the Fairmont. This will leave you without an indoor option, but for the adventurous, that won’t matter.
Moraine Lake
Where do we begin with Moraine Lake? Perhaps one of the most sought after views in Canada. Wedding or no wedding, there’s a reason it’s popular and this comes with its own pros and cons. When considering Moraine Lake as your wedding location, you need to have some very realistic expectations set. The road is seasonally open between May-October and it is busy. There are some slightly quieter areas at the lake which having a local photography team like us for can be useful as we know our way around. You will likely be somewhat on display whilst getting married so if intimacy is your thing we suggest going elsewhere. That said, the view of the lake and the Ten Peaks is breathtaking no matter how many times you’ve been. Finally, you’ll need to consider the mobility of your wedding party and officiant. There are options for lakeside which won’t require much “adventuring” but if you want those classic views over the lake then you’ll have a 15-20min walk on a packed rock and gravel trail and of course, no indoor option for turbulent weather.
Lake Minnewanka
We feel that Minnewanka provides a nice variety of options for you and your wedding plans. The lakeshore allows for clear, uninterrupted views of Mount Inglismaldie (one of our personal favorites in Banff), whilst providing some more intimate areas in the forest in contrast. It’s easy to access by road with family friendly walking trails around the lake. You will need to be mindful that if you want your ceremony on the shore of the lake then your wedding party will need to be able to walk on uneven, sometimes rocky ground. This area is accessible year around and suitable for Winter ceremonies too.
Sky Bistro Banff Gondola Wedding
Ok, we know...technically this is an indoor venue too! This is a perfect venue to blend your outdoor ceremony, amazing views and the delicious dining experience, indoors at The Sky Bistro. You and your guests get to enjoy the gondola experience, not to mention panoramic views over the mountains for your ceremony, through to your first dance together. We think this is another amazing place to get married for wedding parties that have never been to Banff before as the elevated views are stunning and not something you get to see everyday!
Peyto Lake
We would say that Peyto Lake is bordering on being a little less accesible for your wedding party. There is some very light hiking involved (more of a walk) but it is uphill and is already approx 500m more above sea level compared to Banff so may not be for everyone. The views are spectacular but in some respects slightly limited in terms of photographic variety compared to other places. That said, it’s still pretty amazing!
Bow Lake
This beautiful lake sits firmly in one of our favorite places to visit. It’s a little further afield and is relatively quiet compared to some of the lakes that are closer to the Town of Banff. Bow Lake is accessible year around and provides all kinds of magic for the camera. There is a spacious car park, along with pit toilets for those in need and has familiy friendly walking around the shoreline of the lake, close-by.
Two Jack Lake
Another firm favorite in our eyes for the world of landscape photography. Often overlooked by visitors who favor visiting one of the neighbouring lakes in Banff, this gem is easily accessible and provides incredible views of the Northern aspect of Mt. Rundle.
Backcountry camping and hiking weddings and elopements in Banff National Park
On paper, Banff National Park spans over 6000kms squared...it’s massive and one of Canada’s largest national parks. It’s no surprise then that there are too many places to list for your adventurous celebrations. One of our areas of real expertise lies in our knowledge of the trails, the way the valleys connect and how the light interacts with the landscapes out here. If you are looking for a camping or hiking elopement then we’d love to hear from you to help you plan your day(s) to make the best of it. We can help you with sunrise hiking elopements, multi day camping weddings and everything in between. Want to know if your favorite hike is better at sunrise vs sunset? How about if there’s wildflowers in the landscape? Or if you’ll get glacier views from your chosen summit? These are details we’re interested in. It’s hand picking the perfect location.
Heli-weddings in Banff National Park
We chose to elope to a remote, heli-accessed peak in New Zealand so this is definitely up our alley. There’s a few expectations to set with heli-weddings and elopements so we’ll cut to the chase. If you want to stay in Banff or Lake Louise and elope in a heli then technically, this will be done outside of the national park so you’ll have to drive to the heli-base. There’s a few flight operators that provide packages and there’s pros and cons to each. This could be things like landing location choices, time on the ground, drive time to the base etc. At face value, you need to be accepting of the idea that the weather could cancel your flight so you need a solid plan B. Finally, pricing will depend on the actual time you spend flying but as a baseline you can ballpark $2500 + gst (CAD) to get yourselves, your officiant and your photography team in the air (excluding their individual service costs).
Indoor Wedding Venues in Banff National Park
For those looking for an indoor venue in Banff National Park, there are a lot of options for you to choose from. There is literally something for everyone so again, in no particular order take a look at some of our recommendations below (and there’s more too!). Oh, and these are specifically located in Banff National Park so you won’t find any options for Canmore, Kananaskis, Jasper, Yoho, Kootenay or Waterton.
Sky Bistro Banff Gondola Wedding
Ok, we know...you just read about this one and technically this is an outdoor venue too, but you can host your indoor reception here! This is a perfect venue to blend your outdoor ceremony, amazing views and the delicious dining experience, indoors at The Sky Bistro.
Rimrock Hotel
We think that the Rimrock is one of those venues that has an elegant appearance whilst keeping a more modern feel. There’s a variety of ceremony spaces in the resort with balconies and terraces as well as ballrooms and restaurants. For the food lovers out there, the Rimrock has a focus on fine dining with “Eden” being one of 4 restaurants in Canada with a AAA/CAA 5-Diamond rating.
Fairmont Banff Springs
If you want fairytale feels in Banff then look no further than the Fairmont. Look past its obvious appearance and you’ll find a historic, classical venue that lives up to its reputation. Like the Rimrock, it has some options for your ceremony with the Garden Terrace and of course the iconic ballroom. You’ll be well looked after with amazing dining options and it’s a photographer's playground to capture some unique and creative photos for you to complement those mountain views.
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Another fantastic fairy tale location in Banff National Park. The Chateau Lake Louise sits on the shoreline of this famous lake and has it all! Accessibility, immersed in history, incredible mountains and not forgetting those glacial views. You can of course choose to marry outdoors here too if you want!
Storm Mountain Lodge
A perfect venue for an intimate mountain wedding. With rustic cabins and a lodge kind of feel they can put together custom menus for you and provide a fine dining experience. Storm Mountain Lodge is tucked away from the hoards of tourists that flock highway 1 to Lake Louise so this could be a great option if you like peace and quiet!
Deer Lodge
Deer Lodge exudes its tea house charm and offers unique wedding options for up to 120 guests. It’s a more secluded venue in the bustling Lake Louise area and provides a traditional, rustic, Canadian Rockies experience.
The Post Hotel & Spa
Located in Lake Louise, this idyllic hotel is an incredible option for your intimate wedding. Heavy timbers and riverstone provide a feel of rustic elegance indoors and there are options for a beautiful outdoor ceremony too. Oh, and the dining is unreal with award winning cuisine and wine cellar. Open year around, this could be the setting of your dreams for Summer or Winter.
Buffalo Mountain Lodge
This is a more rustic wedding venue that is located across from Tunnel Mountain Reservoir ceremony site. They have a few options for your special day, with wooden beams, large windows, natural light, stone fireplaces...you get the picture! This is a great place to stay whilst in Banff and can even be your backup if the weather isn’t cooperating with your outdoor plans.
Mt. Norquay
Operating a ski resort in winter and a sightseeing venue in summer, it’s close to Banff and provides an amazing “all in” approach to building your wedding experience with catering options as well as transportation back to Banff. We can join you out on the slopes in winter or among the wildflowers in summer...the choice is yours!
The Juniper Hotel
Elopement specialists, the Juniper Hotel can help arrange activities, create delicious wedding breakfasts and have beautiful on-site, landscaped outdoor ceremony options too.
Unique & Adventurous wedding venues in Banff National Park
Moraine Lake Lodge
Best suited for much smaller, more intimate weddings and elopements, Moraine Lake will continue to be one of the most sought after places to visit in the Rockies. Rustic yet modern, the lodge is made up of several chalets that overlook the turquoise waters, giving guests a glimpse right from their window. The outdoor spaces at the lodge provide you with an amazing backdrop for your ceremony. Don’t forget that the road is closed seasonally from mid-October to late May/early June every year, snowpack and weather dependent.
Assiniboine Lodge
Rustic charm with a welcoming spirit! There are many ways to visit this incredible area but the most comfortable way is the Lodge experience. You’ll enjoy a true backcountry experience, disconnected from the world but with a twist. You’ll have a hot shower, sauna and a full dining experience ready for you! All that’s left is to enjoy the great outdoors and incredible trail networks in Summer, or perhaps some fresh pow in the Winter!
Shadow Lake Lodge
This one is a great option for intimacy and a remote and wild setting in the Canadian Rockies. Set in the meadows, surrounded by towering mountains, it’s accessible year around by hike, ski or snowshoe. These private cabins will give you a cozy base for your celebrations for a true backcountry experience.
Warner Stables
A truly unique venue in Banff that is available to rent for your wedding or elopement. With options to seat up to 120 guests, there’s a licensed bar and event planning services to help bring all your needs together. You can even enjoy sleigh rides onsite to arrive in style. The best part for your guests is that downtown Banff is steps away with shops, restaurants and a plethora of options for accommodation.
Sundance Lodge
Here’s your chance to create the intimate wedding of your dreams in Banff National Park. With no roads in, try hiking or enjoy a 16km horseback ride to your venue. Available for exclusive use, you can book out the entire lodge for up to 34 guests. With great food and a rustic feel, you’ll experience solar power, wood stoves and no electricity, cell coverage or wifi, this will be the place to celebrate if you want to centre your celebration on cozy conversation and real connection.
When is the Best time of year to get married in Banff National Park?
This is a difficult question to answer! A lot of our advice for couples revolves around your personal interests, the things you’d like to do and places you want to visit. There really is no blueprint for this one. What we have done is put together individual blogs on some of the reasons we would choose to get married or elope in each of our four amazing seasons...Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter.
Whilst it may sound like advice many don’t really want to hear, you really do need to be prepared for a variety of weather possibilities on your special day. Yes, it’s true, the weather can change quickly and can even change quickly from one valley to the next as well as when we’re gaining or losing altitude. The crazy thing is it’s not always “logical” haha! We experience temperature inversions, snow in plus temperatures, storms out of nowhere and of course the risk of wildfire smoke...you get the idea. We always like to set the expectation that the unexpected will likely happen. It’s not to put a dampener on your plans, it’s to make sure that when the weather cooperates it feels extra special!
Where are the best wedding photo spots in Banff?
Probably one of the questions we get asked the most! Where do we start? Well, as usual, this all begins with you. We need to know a little more about you and help you understand what to expect with each location. Imagine asking us to order something from a restaurant menu for you without even knowing what you like to eat! Sounds crazy but this is the way we feel and approach these questions. There’s so many places that you might love, but what if you don’t? How does that make your day feel special? So, the best thing to do is get in touch and find out if we’re a good fit for your plans. That way we can get to know your likes and dislikes and hand pick some amazing places for you.
Local Banff Vendor Listings
There’s a lot to be said for working with local vendors as generally speaking they have the knowledge of the area and the local licensing and permit requirements. We wanted to put together a list of vendors that we see around the local wedding circuit. They either live and operate in the Bow Valley or commonly work in the mountains with amazing reviews and stories from our couples.
Wedding Cakes & Desserts
Commissioners
Decor & Rentals
Wedding Florists
Hair & Make up Artists
Canmore & Banff Makeup Artistry
Heli Wedding & Elopement
Music & DJ Services
Planning & Coordination Services
Registry
Limo & Transportation
Videography
Whilst this feels like a bunch of info to digest in one go, it’s all here for you and we’re always looking to update and refresh our resources as new vendors open up in town, venues change hands and new photography considerations pop up. As we mentioned, this is by no means all of the available information but hopefully you find the answer to your questions and are able to move forward with your planning.
As you move through your planning stages, you may find you have more questions that you need help with so feel free to get in touch with us if you want to pick our brains.
Kahli & Leo
Wild Alpine Image Co.