Imagine planning a mountain elopement so you and your partner can spend one of the most important days of your life surrounded by nature, say “I do” in a secluded, private place, and have a unique, jaw-dropping backdrop for your celebration.
If the mountains feel like home to you and your partner, and you’re looking for epic places to plan your elopement, the Shenandoah Mountains are a nature lover’s dream.
As an intimate wedding and elopement photographer, I know that there are so many locations you could choose from, but there’s something truly special about planning an elopement in the mountains from the stunning sunsets and sunrises, gorgeous views, and you’ll have the chance to have a scenic and intimate ceremony.
Let’s dive into why you should consider choosing the Shenandoah Mountains for your mountain elopement and some of the best mountain spots inside the park for your celebration.
Why Elope in the Shenandoah Mountains
I could go on and on about why you should choose to elope in the Shenandoah Mountains—in case you haven’t picked up on it yet, I’m a huge fan. However, I want you to make sure that a mountain elopement in Shenandoah is right for you and your partner.
Let’s talk about some reasons why you should consider eloping here to help you make your choice:
Your elopement will feel like an adventure
If you choose to plan an elopement in the Shenandoah Mountains you will have your choice of amazing hikes that allow you to wander through forests, view waterfalls, go rock scrambling, etc.
There’s something for everyone here, and you can do so many different activities before or after your elopement, from river rafting to stargazing to horseback riding.
Tons of options for lodging
The park itself has two lodges: Skyland or Big Meadows Lodge, or you could stay at the cabins at Lewis Mountain. You could also camp in the park or at a rental property or hotel outside of the park.
If you want to stay somewhere that feels really unique, you can even check out staying in a luxury tent at Bally Brook Farm.
Incredible views with minimal effort
There are so many gorgeous spots within the park to choose from, and they aren’t difficult to get to. However, if you want to choose a spot that does require a hike, that’s always an option as well.
You’ll also be able to see a variety of wildflowers, maybe some wildlife, the Blue Ridge mountains, and so much more.
Where to Elope in the Shenandoah Mountains
Bearfence Rock Scramble
If you’re up for an adventure during your elopement, Bearfence is a thrilling rock scramble with views of the Virginia Piedmont and Shenandoah Valley. You’ll have to climb up various boulders, but you don’t need to be a pro rock scrambler to make your way up to the summit.
The hike is short and well worth it for the views. However, if you’re scared of heights, this probably isn’t the best spot in the park for your elopement. Also, if you don’t want to worry about doing any rock scrambling for your elopement, the other way to get to this overlook is through a forested path that involves an easy to moderate climb.
Jewell Hollow Overlook
Jewell Hollow Overlook is a beautiful spot to plan a sunset or sunrise elopement. You will have breathtaking views of both the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Shenandoah Valley.
This spot has one of the biggest overlooks in the park, and this scenic vista point provides views of lush landscapes while immersed in tranquil nature.
Also, if you know that you want to plan a fall elopement, this spot is especially beautiful at this time of year, as you’ll be surrounded by vibrant fall foliage and crisp fall air.
Stony Man
Stony Man is the second-highest peak in the Shenandoah Mountains and has spectacular views as you’ll have views of the Shenandoah Mountains, Massanutten Mountain, and more. This is a great spot with a rock area to stand on and have views of the valley below you and the hike to get here isn’t too long.
This is another spot in the park that would be absolutely breathtaking for a sunrise or sunset elopement.
Mary’s Rock
Mary’s Rock has westward views of the Shenandoah Valley and Massanutten Mountain. You don’t have to use Skyline Drive or the Blueridge Parkway to access it, which is a huge plus as both are often closed in the winter and up to mid-spring because of the weather.
Plus, there’s a flat, spacious area at the top, which is perfect for your ceremony.
Dark Hollow Falls
Dark Hollow Falls is a beautiful waterfall inside the park that would serve as a magical backdrop for your elopement. The trail to get to the falls is very short, but it’s also quite steep, and the hike back up is a bit challenging.
Also, as this is one of the most popular spots in the entire park, you’ll want to keep the time of day you plan to elope in mind so your elopement isn’t filled with curious onlookers.
Hawksbill Summit
Hawksbill Summit is another spot in the park that has incredible panoramic views of the Shenandoah Valley, the Blue Ridge Mountains, and the Virginia Piedmont.
If you want to elope here, it’s good to know to start in the upper Hawkbill Summit parking lot versus the lower one, as the upper parking lot is less steep to get to the summit.
Also, if you want to plan a sunrise elopement here, something to take note of is early in the morning it is very dark, so make sure to bring headlights or flashlights with you so that you can see the path ahead.
Old Rag
Old Rag is another spot with rock scrambles and 360-degree views—it’s a phenomenal hike but also challenging. Interesting rock formations will be your backdrop, and you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world at this spot. Something that is important to know is that this is a very challenging hike and has around a mile and a half of the climb that is a rock scramble. This is my favorite hike in the park but it is not for the faint of heart.
Buzzard Rock
The first thing to know about Buzzard Rock is that it’s slightly outside of Shenandoah Park. From Buzzard Rock, you will be able to view Mt. Rogers and the nearby Whitetop Mountain and with little effort, you’re rewarded with stunning panoramic views.
For more info on some of these spots in the park I’ve highlighted above, as well as a guide to planning your elopement in Shenandoah Park that has everything you need to know from how to elope here permits when to elope, etc., check out my blog post on how to elope in Shenandoah here.
Ready to Plan Your Mountain Elopement in Shenandoah?
I hope you found this guide helpful and that you’re excited about the idea of planning a mountain elopement – especially in Shenandoah.
A mountain elopement in Shenandoah promises to be unforgettable and a beautiful location if you want to get married outdoors in nature.
And…if you’re still looking for the perfect photographer, I’m here to capture every moment of your elopement day with a whole lot of heart. Your elopement is your day, and that means it can be anything you want it to be, so let’s chat about what that looks like. You can contact me here or learn more about my elopement services here.
