How to Elope or Get Married in Jasper National Park
Planning to say “I do” in one of Canada’s most awe-inspiring landscapes? Jasper National Park is an absolute dream for couples seeking a mountain elopement or intimate wedding surrounded by some incredible scenery and a more laid back vibe compared to the hustle and bustle that can come with visiting Banff and Canmore.
Whether you’re imagining a private vow exchange at sunrise by a turquoise lake or an intimate celebration with family at a cozy mountain lodge, Jasper has all the ingredients for an unforgettable wedding day.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to elope or get married in Jasper National Park, including legal logistics, permit details, jaw-dropping locations, and pro tips from our local elopement photography experience.
Why Elope in Jasper National Park?
Tucked into the northern Canadian Rockies, Jasper is Banff’s quieter cousin though equally stunning. Think wild backdrops without the crowds, glacier-fed lakes, epic mountain passes, and wildlife encounters that feel like something out of a Disney movie.
Top reasons couples choose Jasper for their elopement:
Fewer tourists = more privacy
Off-the-beaten-path ceremony locations
Dark sky preserve for stargazing wedding portraits
Cozy mountain town vibes with luxe lodges and cabin rentals
Want to elope somewhere else in the Canadian Rockies? Check out these guides for more ideas and inspiration.
Do You Need a Permit to Elope in Jasper National Park?
There is no formal approval process or permission required to hold a wedding ceremony at a public area in the park if you are not using a reservable location. If you want to reserve a location, you have two to choose from; Athabasca River and Pyramid Island and you can reserve them at the Parks Canada Jasper Wedding Webiste.
How to Legally Get Married in Jasper, Alberta
Your marriage will be legally recognized if:
You obtain an Alberta Marriage Licence from any Alberta registry agent (available in Jasper or major cities like Edmonton or Calgary).
Your ceremony is performed by a legally recognized marriage commissioner or religious officiant.
You have two witnesses (we’ve stepped in as witnesses plenty of times!).
If you want to read a little more about the process, check out our dedicated blog on marriage licenses here.
Alberta Marriage Licence Basics:
Valid for 90 days
You and your partner must apply together in person
No waiting period after issuance
Closest registry office: Jasper Registry Services in the Servus Credit Union building in Jasper
British Columbia Licenses
If you are tying the knot in British Columbia, you’ll need to go through the BC equivalent process, which is just as simple. You can easily check if your location is in Alberta or BC and if you are not sure, just ask and we can help out. We know this side of things from experience, having photographed celebrations just outside of Jasper, in Mount Robson Provicial Park so let us know if you have any questions.
Legal Marriage vs. Symbolic Ceremony
This is totally your call and it may depend on where you are travelling from to celebrate. Marriages in Canada are commonly recognized around the world and you don’t have to have any residency requirements, but it doesn’t mean that your home country/state/province will recognize it. We know from experience that this side of things doesn’t have to be scary or shied away from, especially if you love the idea of having this as legally binding. With that said, if you really want to remove that side of things then simply opt for a symbolic ceremony in Jasper and take care of the paperwork at home. Many of our international couples do this to keep things simple.
Regulations for Weddings in Jasper National Park
To preserve the beauty and integrity of Jasper National Park, it's essential to adhere to these regulations:
Group Size - Typically, it is recommended that the maximum number of guests attending not exceed 25 people total, including the couple and any vendors.
Leave No Trace - Follow Leave No Trace principles by minimizing your impact on the environment. This includes packing out all trash and decorations.
Restricted Areas - Certain areas may be off-limits for ceremonies due to ecological sensitivity. Confirm that your chosen location is approved for weddings.
Noise Levels - Be considerate of noise, especially in serene and natural areas, to maintain the park's tranquility and the experience of other park visitors
Best Places to Elope in Jasper National Park
You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to landscapes in Jasper. Whether you’re hiking in your wedding attire or keeping it easy-access, here are some of our favorite elopement spots:
Pyramid Lake
Pyramid Lake offers a picturesque setting with its serene waters and surrounding mountains. The Pyramid Island bridge provides a unique and scenic spot for your ceremony, perfect for capturing stunning photos. It’s got a North facing skyline too so if there’s any aurora to be seen, this the place to go!
Medicine Lake
Medicine Lake is a dramatic setting with incredible views. The backdrop seems to go on for miles and it’s never the same with an ever changing water level depending on the season.
Maligne Lake
Known for its striking blue waters and Spirit Island, Maligne Lake is an iconic location for a wedding. Imagine saying your vows with the backdrop of towering peaks and pristine waters.
Heli Elopement Locations near Jasper
While less common than in Banff or Golden, for an extraordinary and adventurous wedding experience, consider a heli-wedding. Helicopter tours from Jasper can take you to remote and breathtaking locations high in the Rockies. Picture exchanging vows on a mountaintop with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys for a truly unforgettable experience. You can learn a little more about flying near Jasper here.
Athabasca Falls
Dramatic and powerful. Best for portraits or vow readings (ceremonies not permitted right at the falls, but there are nearby spots).
Mount Edith Cavell Meadows
Hike-in location with glacier views and wildflower blooms mid-summer. Limited to smaller groups but 100% worth it.
Sunwapta Falls & Canyon
Tucked into the forest with river views and waterfalls this makes a beautiful elopement spot.
Athabasca Glacier (Icefields Parkway)
This will require a little more travel, but imagine portraits with glacier views…this is for the adventurous-at-heart! Check out the Ice Odyssey tour for something truly unique, but if you’d rather enjoy a foot powered adventure, we know some of the best views from hiking trails around.
Jasper Sky Tram
Offering a completely unique experience and some amazing elevated views over Jasper. Find out more here.
Marmot Basin
A ski resort offering stunning winter views, perfect for a snowy ceremony. Plus you can get some quality time on the slopes!
Berg Lake
Step just outside of Jasper National Park and explore one of the Rockies most incredible back country areas to visit!
Mt. Robson
Another spectacular location just outside of the park with a surreal backdrop for your ceremony and adventurous wedding photos.
Indoor Wedding Venues in Jasper National Park
If you prefer the comfort and convenience of an indoor venue, Jasper National Park offers several charming options:
Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge combines luxury with natural beauty. With elegant indoor spaces and stunning outdoor settings, it offers the best of both worlds. The lodge’s grand ballroom and rustic cabins provide versatile options for your wedding.
Pyramid Lake Resort
Pyramid Lake Resort offers cozy indoor venues with panoramic views of Pyramid Lake and the surrounding mountains. The rustic charm and serene environment make it a wonderful choice for an intimate wedding.
Forest Park Hotel
The Forest Park Hotel’s on-site event planners create memorable weddings in an unforgettable mountain location. Our full-service resort can host up to 240 guests, with every detail curated to make your big day special and your vision a reality.
Overlander Mountain Lodge
This beautiful venue offers several options for your special day from indoor and outdoor spaces. They even have on site accommodation so you can keep the whole celebration in one, easy and convenient location. They will work closely with you to customize every detail, ensuring that your vision comes to life.
When is the Best Time of Year to Elope in Jasper?
It might come as no surprise that Jasper’s seasons are dynamic and magical in their own way. Here’s a very quick breakdown of what to expect. Of course there are exceptions to the norm so take this as an overview and be sure to expect the unexpected!
Spring (May–June)
Melting lakes, the first wildflowers, quieter trails
Summer (July–August)
Peak accessibility, lush greens and wildflowers, long golden hours
Fall (September–October)
Crisp air, fall colours and fewer tourists
Winter (November–March)
Frozen waterfalls, snowy backdrops, cozy lodge vibes
If you want to learn more about some of the reasons we would choose to elope or get married in each season, take a peek at Spring, Summer, Autumn (Fall) and Winter.
Vendors & Services for Jasper Elopements
As Jasper is smaller and a little more remote than Banff, there are fewer teams and vendors who are truly local. With that said, here’s who we recommend and if you would like to explore more options from further afield, reach out and we’ll happily send you some more recommendations from the Banff area who love mountain elopements:
Officiants: Laura Colson
Hair & Makeup: Bliss & Glow
Florals: Alpen Flora
Eloping in Jasper FAQs
Can we bring family to our Jasper elopement?
Absolutely, many locations work beautifully for small groups.
Can we elope without an officiant?
You can have a symbolic ceremony without one, but for legal recognition, you’ll need an authorized Alberta officiant and two witnesses. (or BC if you have your ceremony at a location in BC, just west of Jasper).
Can you help us plan a full-day elopement adventure?
Yes! We specialize in crafting timeline ideas that include multiple locations, private vows, and sunset portraits, plus some champagne or coffee along the way.
Can we bring guests?
Yes! Most locations allow small groups (under 25 people), but we'll help you pick a site that fits your plans perfectly.
Are drones allowed?
No. Jasper is a protected national park, and drones are prohibited.
Can you help us plan our trip?
Absolutely. We aren’t travel agents and we do not make reservations for you, but we are happy to send you some ideas and suggestions to help you bring your plans together. For couples who book with us, we send you an invite to our private resources which will help in this space.
Getting to Jasper
Jasper is a bit more remote than Banff, but that’s part of the charm and the journey there alone is amazing.
Closest airport: Edmonton (YEG), 4 hours drive
Scenic route: Calgary > Icefields Parkway > Jasper (approx. 5.5 hours)
Via train: VIA Rail’s The Canadian stops right in Jasper or alternatively, you could book The Rocky Mountaineer for a more luxurious way to travel by rail.
Pro Tip: Rent a car or van to explore freely as many locations are off the main highway. Plus, it makes things much easier to visit on your own timeline, as opposed to schedules and timetables of public transport, if available.
Jasper Elopement Photography with Wild Alpine Image Co.
We know these mountains like the back of our camera, because we live and breathe them. We specialize in helping couples plan intentional, unforgettable elopement days in wild alpine places like Jasper.
What makes us different?
Local knowledge (weather, trails, lighting)
No cookie-cutter timelines as this is your day, your way
We help plan the logistics and location scouting
A documentary-style approach with an editorial flare, full of heart and adventure
Let’s Make Your Jasper Elopement Unforgettable
Whether you’re dreaming of hiking to a secluded overlook or saying vows by a glacial lake, Jasper offers the kind of wild beauty that grounds you in the moment and fills your heart for a lifetime. Let’s co-create a day that’s unapologetically you. No pressure, no crowds, just awe and connection.
Kahli & Leo
Wild Alpine Image Co.