Banff National Park, nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, is a dream destination for couples seeking a picturesque backdrop for their elopement. With its breathtaking landscapes, pristine alpine lakes, and towering mountain peaks, Banff offers a romantic and enchanting setting for a memorable wedding ceremony. If you're considering eloping in Banff, here's a guide to the best places to exchange your vows and create everlasting memories.

When eloping in a national park there are many things to consider from time of year, weather, tourist season vs the shoulder season, accessibility, permits, licenses and park rules to name a few. I’ve put together all the information you’ll need to start planning your elopement in my journal post ‘How to Elope in Banff National Park’ and ‘16 Ways to Make Your Elopement Special’.

Late Spring to early fall when the lakes are at its most vibrant, and the weather is generally mild.

Now comes the fun part, choosing your dream elopement location! Banff National Park has endless possibilities for the perfect place for you to elope. Here are a few of my favourite locations that I think you’ll love (in no particular order)!

Lake Louise

Known for its pristine emerald waters and the historic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, Lake Louise is a classic choice for elopements. The majestic Victoria Glacier and the surrounding mountainous terrain provide a romantic and awe-inspiring setting. It is easy to access from the parking lot and has many scenic hikes of varying lengths and stunning views of the lake and Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. You can canoe on the lake in the summer and skate on the frozen lake during the winter months. There is also a ski resort near by.

Lake Minnewanka

Lake Minnewanka is super close to the town of Banff! There are plenty of options for epic photos along the lake shore and a few different hikes to choose from for even more options. There is very easy access from the parking lot, public restrooms and a small coffee shop.

Two Jack Lake

Two Jack Lake is super close to Lake Minnewanka, making the two lakes a perfect combination. The sun sets behind the mountains at the end of the lake. The parking lot is only a stones throw from the lake. Two Jack Lake is also a great spot for picnics and skating.

Blue lake with trees in front and mountains behind — Photo by Megan Renee Photography

Moraine Lake

Moraine Lake is a jewel nestled in the Valley of the Ten Peaks. The vivid turquoise waters, surrounded by towering mountains, create a stunning and serene atmosphere. Exchange vows on the shorelines, with the iconic view of the Valley of the Ten Peaks as your backdrop. It is a very popular tourist destination and the road is closed to personal vehicles all year round. There are a few options for getting to Moraine Lake; a public shuttle bus, a private taxi, or staying at the Moraine Lake Lodge which will grant you personal vehicle access. The best time to visit for your elopement would be midweek at sunrise to avoid crowds.

Peyto Lake

Shaped like a wolf's head, Peyto Lake offers a unique and captivating landscape. A short hike takes you to the Bow Summit lookout, where you can exchange vows overlooking the striking blue lake and the expansive Banff National Park. Peyto Lake is located on the Icefields Parkway, about 40km north of Lake Louise. It’s about a 15 minute hike from the parking lot, depending on your hiking abilities, and has several steep inclines.

Bow Lake

Bow Lake is a 4 minute drive from Peyto Lake and a beautiful location for a sunrise elopement ceremony.

Surprise Corner Viewpoint

Surprise Corner Viewpoint overlooks the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel and Sulphur Mountain. This would be an epic spot for a few quick portraits!

Tunnel Mountain Reservoir

Tunnel Mountain Reservoir has a stunning mountain view and is perfect if you don’t want to hike on your elopement day. It does require a reservation, a minim two hour rental and $500 refundable damage deposit. Tunnel Mountain Reservoir can accommodate a larger capacity of 150. You can find more information here.

Sulphur Mountain

You can either hike up Sulphur Mountain or take a ten minute ride on the Banff Gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain. The Sky Bistro is at the top and is a great place to get a drink and have a meal after you elope!

An island with trees, surrounded my mountains. Spirit Island, Maligne Lake, Jasper National Park — Photo by Megan Renee Photography

Emerald Lake

Although it’s not technically in Banff National Park, Emerald Lake is located right beside it in Yoho National Park, British Columbia. Emerald Lake is a stunning fresh water lake with mountain views. There are many nearby hikes including the Emerald Lake Loop which is an easy 4.5km hike around the lake. It is a very popular location in the peak season so I would definitely recommend arriving early in the day!

If you are considering an elopement in Banff National Park or any of these breath taking locations I would love to be your elopement photographer!

Eloping in Banff National Park is a dream come true for couples seeking a breathtaking and intimate wedding experience. Whether you choose the turquoise waters of Moraine Lake, the iconic Lake Louise, the unique Peyto Lake, the serene Vermilion Lakes, or the romantic Bow Falls, each location offers its own charm and beauty. Banff provides an enchanting canvas for your love story, ensuring that your elopement is an unforgettable celebration in the midst of nature's grandeur.