Top 6 places to Elope in Banff National Park, Alberta | Elopement Planning Guide | Banff Wedding Photographers
We’ve been sharing some of our favourite love stories from the past year but we figured it was time to share some wedding knowledge to help out those newly engaged couples out there. If you’re thinking about Eloping or having an Intimate Wedding with your closest people, Banff National Park is a pretty epic place to explore. That said, there are so many possibilities when you start diving into the wedding/elopement world and we figured we could help a little from our insider photographer's perspective. As we said in a previous post, we are often helping organize elements of the day for our couples - things like choosing out locations, setting up timelines, where to stay, etc.
While there might not be as many moving parts as a full sized Wedding, planning an Elopement is no easy task. With a smaller group, suddenly there is a wider set of possibilities and things can become a bit overwhelming. It’s important to focus on your priorities and nail down a few big items first to narrow things down. Choosing out a location/venue is a great start and helps you visualize the rest of your day. From there, you can pick out other elements of the day that are important to incorporate into your day (things like aesthetics, food choices, etc).
Banff National Park is our backyard and over the years we've compiled a list of our top 6 favourite spots for an Elopement in Banff. Check them out below (but first a few important notes):
*Weather in Banff is quite unpredictable, but generally you can expect winter conditions from November to April/May. Lakes are generally frozen from Mid-November to late May.
*Banff is a National Park and so we need to mention that respecting the environment and wildlife is a must! It’s important to consider how to minimize your impact when planning out your celebration. For more info and permitting requirements, here’s a useful link - Banff Wedding Permits
Even if you haven’t visited Lake Louise before, you’re probably familiar with it from photos all over social media (it’s a pretty epic backdrop and deserves it’s viral fame!) Saying your vows with the signature turquoise lake in the background makes for a surreal spot.
Why we love it: Lake Louise has the perfect balance of luxury and convenience, with the raw beauty of nature a short walk away from the beautiful Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.
Pro Tip: There are a number of great hikes to get even more stunning scenery and leave the majority of tourists behind.
Where to Stay: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise | The Post Hotel | Baker Creek Resort
Moraine Lake Elopement - Banff, Alberta
Elevation: 1884 m | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/cmh9ZZ2zVqo2hF157
We used to say that this was Lake Louise's slightly lesser known cousin, although that has changed in the last 5 years or so (Moraine Lake is also known as Reddit Lake). It's hard to find a more picturesque lake and if you’re able to experience it around sunrise or sunset it’s even better!
Why we love it: Maybe the most pure scenic view that you can get in the Canadian Rockies (and that’s no easy feat!)
Pro Tip: The road to the lake is closed to all vehicles from Mid-October to Mid-May. During the warmer months, access is now restricted to shuttles and bike/foot traffic as well (due to all of the increased demand). It’s not the easiest place to access but it’s worth it. Make sure to plan ahead! Here’s a useful write-up on what to expect - https://thebanffblog.com/moraine-lake-shuttle/
Where to Stay: Moraine Lake Lodge | Deer Lodge
Lake Minnewanka Elopement - Banff, Alberta
Elevation: 1500 m | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/2fWTe8KUcCZTE2mD8
Lake Minnewanka is popular with locals and tourists alike, providing beautiful views in almost every direction. The lake is 21km long making it the 2nd longest lake in the Canadian Rockies. When the wind is just right the waves crash into the rocks and there’s a bit of an ocean vibe going on.
Why we love it: The variety. This location gives you a little bit of everything and is super close to the Banff townsite for amenities.
Pro Tip: You can hike along the north bank or you can take a cruise for a more relaxed way to explore. Check out all your options here - https://www.banffjaspercollection.com/attractions/lake-minnewanka-cruise/experience/rentals/
Where to Stay: Buffalo Mountain Lodge | Juniper Hotel
Peyto Lake Elopement - Banff, Alberta
Elevation: 1860 m | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/v5AdMUNHuyqwwQ7q8
Another glacier-fed lake, this is arguably our favourite view-point in the Rockies (another ‘best’, there are just too many!) A short 20 minute hike will leave the crowds behind and you'll be all alone with this masterpiece. You do have to be aware that the parking lot is busy and often full, especially on weekends.
Why we love it: Sunsets. Although you may have to plan a late night in the summer months, watching the sky change as the sun sets is more than worth it!
Pro Tip: This location is fairly remote so it’s not a bad idea to bring along some food and have a picnic! (Just remember to pack out whatever you pack in)
Where to Stay: The Lodge at Bow Lake | Glacier View Lodge
Fairmont Banff Springs Elopement - Banff, Alberta
Elevation: 1400 m | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/KjzxqTLxJTNeZEyw9
In the heart of Banff National Park, there are few places that can compare to the luxury, architecture and vibe of the Banff Springs Hotel
Why we love it: A castle in the mountains. Straight out of a fairytale!
Pro Tip: If you’re looking to relax on the morning of, there’s plenty to enjoy right in the Banff Springs itself, but if you want to go for a beautiful forest walk, you don’t need to drive anywhere, just head to the Spray River trailhead and enjoy - https://goo.gl/maps/R4txiCr8cXZZ4PXH6
Where to Stay: Fairmont Banff Springs (obvious choice) | The Rimrock Resort
Mt. Norquay Lookout Elopement - Banff, Alberta
Elevation: 1630 m | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/LVVTdHLqeWJbiwpH8
Just before you reach the base of the Mt. Norquay Ski Resort, you’ll see a pull off that leads you to a beautiful viewpoint of the Banff townsite and Vermillion Lakes in the valley below.
Why we love it: It’s an amazing view of the valley and is often pretty quiet.
Pro Tip: If you’re here in the summer months, plan dinner at Cliffhouse Bistro - great food and stunning views!
Where to Stay: Peaks Hotel & Suites | Canalta Lodge
If you are thinking of eloping in Banff National Park, we hope this list gives you a head start! Ready to learn more, make sure to SAY HELLO and let’s set up a time to chat :)
Lata gatas x