The Complete Guide to Getting Married in Waterton Lakes National Park

Imagine exchanging vows surrounded by towering mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and vast, unspoiled wilderness. Waterton Lakes National Park, nestled in the southwestern corner of Alberta, offers a stunning and unique backdrop for couples seeking an unforgettable wedding experience. With its breathtaking scenery, diverse landscapes, and intimate atmosphere, Waterton is the perfect place to say "I do." With Banff National Park and areas like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake drawing big crowds, Waterton is one of those places that has a more relaxed vibe and may just be the perfect place for you. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your dream wedding or elopement in this incredible national park. This is by no means all of the information you could find but we’ve kept things very specific to Waterton National Park. There’s lots of other popular options if you’d like to explore the mountains of Yoho, Jasper and Banff National Parks and Kananaskis.

1. Why Choose Waterton Lakes National Park for Your Wedding?

Waterton Lakes National Park is known for its dramatic landscapes and pristine beauty. The park is part of the larger Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it one of the most picturesque and serene places in Canada. This isn’t widely known about the area and many simply reply “Where?” when you name drop the area. Personally, we love the area and think there’s a certain something that cannot be found in the heart of Banff.

Here are a few reasons why couples choose to marry in Waterton:

• Stunning Natural Beauty

  With majestic mountains, tranquil lakes, lush forests, and expansive meadows, Waterton offers a variety of scenic backdrops for your ceremony and photos.

• Seclusion and Intimacy

  Unlike larger wedding venues, Waterton provides a more private, intimate setting where you can truly focus on the moment.

• Outdoor Adventure

  For nature-loving couples, Waterton is an adventure-filled destination, offering hiking, boating, and wildlife viewing right at your doorstep.

• Cultural Heritage

  The park has a rich history and is a popular spot for couples who want to connect with the land while exchanging vows.

2. Best Locations for Your Waterton Wedding

Waterton Lakes National Park offers an array of incredible locations for tying the knot (you can find a little more detail on the Parks website). Whether you envision a lakeside ceremony, a mountaintop vow exchange, or a quiet forest setting, here are some of the most beautiful spots in the park to consider:

• The Waterton Lakes

  If you dream of saying your vows by the water, the shores of Upper Waterton Lake provide a breathtaking backdrop. You can even take a boat ride to a secluded spot for a truly private ceremony.

• Bertha Lake

  A short hike to Bertha Lake rewards couples with stunning alpine views and crystal-clear water, making it a perfect setting for a scenic ceremony.

• The Prince of Wales Hotel

  If you're looking for something more traditional, the Prince of Wales Hotel, located in the heart of Waterton, offers a charming and historic venue with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.

3. When to Get Married in Waterton Lakes National Park

Choosing the right season for your wedding in Waterton is crucial to ensuring the experience is just as you envision it. Here’s what you should know about the different seasons in the park:

• Summer (June to August)

  Summer is the peak wedding season in Waterton, with warm temperatures, lush greenery, and wildflowers in bloom. It’s the best time for outdoor ceremonies and adventures.

• Fall (September to October)

  Fall offers cooler weather and beautiful fall colors. The park’s autumn foliage provides a stunning backdrop for a wedding, and the crowds are thinner than in the summer months.

• Spring (April to May)

  While the weather can still be unpredictable in spring, this is a quieter time in the park. Realistically, you should expect there to be snow bound areas and a wintery feel compared to summer.

• Winter (November to March)

  For couples who want a winter wonderland experience, Waterton transforms into a snowy paradise. The winter months offer a quieter, more intimate experience, but be prepared for colder temperatures and limited accessibility to the alpine areas.

4. Permits and Regulations for Getting Married in Waterton

Getting married in Waterton National Park requires specific permits and adherence to park regulations to ensure you’re respecting the environment. You will need to obtain a special event permit from Parks Canada, which applies to all weddings held in the park. This permit covers activities like setting up decorations, having a photographer, and using certain areas of the park for your ceremony.

Keep in mind:

• Permits may require a minimum of 30 days' notice, and fees will vary depending on the location and size of the event.

• Certain areas may require additional permissions if you’re planning for a larger gathering or if you want to use special equipment (such as a tent or music setup).

5. Hiring Wedding Vendors and Local Services to Waterton

While the park offers natural beauty, you’ll need some professional help to bring your dream wedding to life. Here's a list of essential services and vendors to consider:

• Photographers

  A local photographer who knows the landscape can help you capture the beauty of the park. They’ll also know the best spots and times for taking photos, especially in a location as vast as Waterton. (We’d love to explore your plans with you to see if we’re a good fit!)

• Officiants

  Whilst Waterton itself doesn’t have a registered officiant, searching close by (such as Pincher Creek) you’ll find officiants that can perform personalized ceremonies for you.

• Florists

  Primrose Lane Farm are the go-to for weddings and elopements in Waterton.

• Caterers and Restaurants

  Some venues, like the Prince of Wales Hotel, offer intimate dining experiences to suit weddings and elopements. If you are planning an outdoors focused celebration then packing a picnic might be the best option for you.

• Transportation

  Depending on your guest list and chosen locations, you may need to arrange transportation for your guests. Parking is one of the more limiting factors in Waterton with a lot of roads operating as an out and back to certain locations.

6. Accommodation Options for Your Wedding

Waterton offers a range of accommodation options for both you and your guests. Whether you want a luxury hotel stay, a cozy cabin, or something more rustic, the park has something to suit your needs:

• The Prince of Wales Hotel

  A historic and luxurious venue, perfect for couples looking for a traditional wedding experience.

• Waterton Lakes Lodge Resort

  Offering a variety of rooms and cottages, this is a great option for those who want easy access to both the park and amenities.

• Bayshore Inn

  With space for 10-250 guests, this incredible venue has you covered from A-Z, with catering options, it really feels like the total package.

• Camping and Cabins

  For nature-loving couples, there are also plenty of campgrounds you can reserve online.

7. Activities and Experiences for Your Wedding Day and Beyond

One of the best things about getting married in Waterton is the wealth of activities you and your guests can enjoy during and after your wedding:

• Hiking in Waterton for Your Elopement

  There are countless hiking trails, from easy lakeside walks to more challenging mountain hikes.

• Wildlife Viewing

  Keep your eyes peeled for bears, bighorn sheep, elk, and other wildlife that call the park home.

• Boating and Scenic Tours

  Spend time exploring the lakes with boat rentals or a private boat tour.

• Scenic Drives

  Take a scenic drive on the famous Akamina Parkway or the Red Rock Parkway for panoramic views of the surrounding area.

8. Planning Your Dream Wedding in Waterton

Getting married in Waterton Lakes National Park is a dream come true for couples who love nature and want a unique, intimate wedding experience. From choosing the perfect location to handling permits and hiring local vendors, careful planning will help ensure your big day is as seamless as it is unforgettable.

Ready to say “I do” in the stunning Waterton Lakes National Park? Let’s work together to capture every moment of your magical day in this beautiful natural wonderland.

Kahli & Leo

Wild Alpine Image Co.