Honestly, there isn’t anything quite like getting married in a National Park. You’re surrounded by miles and miles of open land and natural beauty. This serene setting is ideal for couples seeking a more intimate and personal experience, allowing you to connect deeply with each other and nature as you exchange your vows.
Shenandoah National Park is a breathtaking backdrop for elopements, offering a stunning variety of locations to begin your new chapter together. With its majestic mountains, lush forests, and picturesque vistas, each spot provides a unique and memorable setting for your special day. The incredible scenery enhances the intimate experience, making it a perfect choice for couples seeking both adventure and romance. Whether you prefer a serene meadow, a scenic overlook, or a peaceful forest trail, Shenandoah National Park promises a magical atmosphere for your elopement.
If a Shenandoah National Park elopement sounds like the perfect fit for you, here are some of my top tips to help you plan an unforgettable day:
Tips for a Shenandoah National Park Elopement
Make sure you know if you need a permit or not
The great news about eloping in Shenandoah is that if you’re having fewer than 15 people, you don’t need a permit to hold your ceremony in the park. So, if you’re planning a truly intimate celebration with just you, your partner, or a small group of loved ones, you can skip the permit hassle.
If you plan to have more than 15 people, a special use permit is required. Keep in mind that this permit can take at least six weeks to process and be approved, so it’s important to plan ahead and avoid waiting until the last minute.
For more info about the rules of the park click here
Get your Marriage License in Shenandoah
You will need to apply for your Marriage License at any County Clerk’s Office. Although, many offices allow you to start the application online, both you and your partner must be present to obtain your Marriage License. Both parties must have a valid, non-expired government issued photo ID such as a driver’s license, passport, or DMV issued ID card. The fee for the license is $30 (most offices only take cash, so come prepared) In Virginia, there is no waiting period, so you should be able to get your license the same day!
Your license is valid for 60 days to get married in the State of Virginia by a certified officiant. (For a list of those who can perform a marriage ceremony in Virginia, click here )
You do not need any witnesses in the State of Virginia.
The closest locations to pick up a marriage license near Shenandoah National Park are in Luray, Culpepper, Woodstock, and Harrisonburg.
Best Time of Year to Elope in Shenandoah National Park
With four distinct seasons, Shenandoah has something to offer any time of the year, but I think everyone would agree, that the park really shines in Spring and Fall
Shenandoah Winter Elopement-
Temperatures average 29°F to 39°F during the day.
With most leaves off of the trees, some of the views are even more breathtaking. There are also a lot less visitors this time of year, which makes it easier to find solitude. Although the park is open all year to hike, during the winter, you need to be aware that roads may be closed due to snowy or icy conditions.
Shenandoah Spring Elopement-
Temperatures average 35°F in March to 55°F in May.
Spring is a time of rejuvenation at the park. There is so much to see and experience at the park. Leaves begin to reappear on the trees, wildflowers start to pop (there are 862 species found within the Park). and migratory birds are starting to arrive on their journey North. The park is also less crowded this time a year (in comparison to summer and fall) making it an ideal time to elope.
Shenandoah Summer Elopement-
Temperatures average around 65°F, although hotter temperatures are not uncommon.
I mean, everybody loves summer, right? There is just something about warmer weather, and longer days. This time of year, kids are out of school, and the park is bustling, making it a little harder to find space to be alone. This is definitely a great time to explore a new trail, or a spot less known. I would also recommend considering a sunrise ceremony, to avoid onlookers, and the hottest temperatures of the day.
Shenandoah Fall Elopement-
temperatures average 49°F to 60°F during the day.
Fall is by far the most popular time to visit the park, and for good reason. The temperature is a little cooler, the air is a little crisper, the skies are bluer, and the fall foliage is on full display. Every direction you look is like a color filled work of art.
Shenandoah does get over a million visitors throughout the year, so I recommend choosing a weekday for your elopement. The trails are a lot more quiet, and this will give you the chance to focus on celebrating your love in nature.
Best Hikes for an Elopement in Shenandoah
Now comes the fun part—choosing the perfect spot for your ceremony! One of the best things about intimate elopements is the freedom to say ‘I do’ just about anywhere.
If you’re up for a longer hike to reach a secluded, breathtaking spot, go for it! Prefer an easily accessible overlook or a quiet spot just off one of Skyline Drive’s shorter trails? That works too! The choice is completely yours.
If you’re not familiar with the area, I’ve spent a lot of time exploring Shenandoah and have plenty of location ideas and tips to help guide you. Here are some of the more popular spots—but trust me, the options are endless (and I know some incredible hidden gems both inside and outside the park.)
Mary’s Rock North Trail
Mile Marker 31.6
Distance: 3.7-mile round trip hike
Difficulty: Moderate
Mary’s Rock is a moderate hike with amazing westward views of the Shenandoah Valley and Massanutten Mountain.
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/mary-s-rock-via-the-appalachian-trail-southern-approach
Stony Man Trail
Mile Marker 41.7
Distance: 1.6-mile round trip hike
Difficulty: Easiest
Stony Man is one of the easiest of the summit hikes that I have done, but still offers breathtaking views of the Shenandoah Valley, Massanutten Mountain, and beyond.
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/stony-man-via-appalachian-trail
Hawksbill Summit
Mile Marker 45.5
Distance: 1.7-mile round trip hike
Difficulty: Moderate
Hawksbill is the highest summit in the park, and offers 360-degree panoramic view of the Shenandoah Valley, the Blue Ridge Mountains, and the Virginia Piedmont. The trip up is steep, but well worth the effort.
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/hawksbill-summit
Dark Hollow Falls
Mile Marker 50.7
Distance: 1.4-mile circuit hike
Difficulty: Moderate
Dark Hollow Falls is a very popular spot in the park (I mean who doesn’t love waterfalls). The trail is steep and rocky, but oh so beautiful. From Dark Hollow, you can also connect to the Rose River Loop, which is often less busy, and has more waterfalls to check out.
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/dark-hollow-falls-trail
Old Rag (you need a permit for both of these options)
Old Rag is my absolute favorite hike in Shenandoah, but it can be quite strenuous if you are not prepared. The Circuit contains a lot of rock scrambling and bouldering (which is what makes it so much fun in my opinion), while the Berry Hollow avoids the Ridge Trail rock scramble. Both are amazing options, but need a day permit.
Via Berry Hollow
Distance: 5.4-mile round trip hike
Difficulty: Strenuous
Hiking Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Elevation Gain: 1,760 feet
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/berry-hollow-to-old-rag-mountain-trail–3
Old Rag Circuit
Distance: 9.4-mile circuit hike
Difficulty: Very Strenuous
Hiking Time: 7 hours 30 minutes
Elevation Gain: 2,348 feet
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/old-rag-mountain-loop-trail
Take advantage of everything Shenandoah National Park has to offer
One of the best parts of getting married in a National Park is that you are in a National Park. There are so many incredible things to experience in our National Parks, and Shenandoah is no exception.
When it comes to your elopement, you want to make it look and feel authentic to you. So, why not take advantage of all Shenandoah has to offer, and really soak up the beauty that you are surrounded by? Now, this is going to look different for every couple, depending on what you like to do.
For some people, this may mean doing some epic hikes or exploring new areas around the park.
For others, this may look like planning a picnic with a champagne toast, or trying to get portraits with the Milky Way to celebrate the journey that you are starting together.
There are also some great things to do outside of the park, so you can split up your day and spend part of it in the park and the other part exploring the rest of the Shenandoah Valley.
Activities Inside of the Park
- Hike to a summit
- Ride bike
- Have a picnic
- Hike to a waterfall
- Rock climb
- Stargaze at Big Meadows
- Take a drive on Skyline Drive
- Share a piece of the parks signature Blackberry Ice Cream Pie (IYKYK)
- Go horseback riding
Other activities you may want to include that are nearby
- Kayak, canoe, or tube on the Shenandoah River
- Go to a brewery or vineyard
- Enjoy a catered meal with family
- Build a fire at your airbnb and make s’mores
- Spend some time sipping coffee at a local coffeeshop
- Experience a hot air balloon ride over the Shenandoah Valley
- Read letters from family and friends that are not present
One thing to keep in mind, though, is that the park can be pretty busy from spring through fall. I would definitely recommend choosing a weekday for your session during these seasons and maybe even trying to plan your elopement for sunrise when the park is less crowded (especially in the fall).
Find a place to stay while you are visiting
There are so many cool and unique places to stay during your elopement in Shenandoah. There are countless AirBNB’s, lodges, campsites, cabins, and hotels. When trying to decide where to stay, think about the location, and how far it is from where you want to have your ceremony, and the activities you might want to do. Also, if you are including friends and family, try to think about how much room you need for everybody to be comfortable. If you are bringing your pets, remember to make sure the lodging is pet friendly! Here are a few that I think are really worth checking out.
Shenandoah Yurt-this yurt is like a luxury hotel perched in the mountains. It is close to the park, has a hot tub, wood burning stove, a large deck, and so much more. Ideal for 4 people, but can accommodate up to 8.
Getaway Shenandoah– If you are looking for a cute and cozy spot to stay, Getaway Shenandoah is home to the sweetest group of tiny cabins. Equipped with a kitchen, bathroom, and outdoor fire pit, you can have all the conveniences of home, while in the woods.
Bally Brook Farm-Bally Brook Farm offers the ultimate eco-friendly luxury tent camping experience. There is only one tent available, so you need to book early, but it mean that you alone, have access to the property. You can pick veggies from the garden, take a dip in the private swimming hole, or sit in a hammock and enjoy the views.
Mayneview B&B– Perfect blend of an old home with character, modern upgrades, and mountain views, this bed and breakfast, is full of charm. They also offer an option to rent the whole property, which is perfect if you are including friends and family in any part of your day.
Indigo House-The Indigo House is an adults-only bed & breakfast designed for outdoor enthusiasts located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountain. They offer packages and stays for couples wanting to have an Adventure Elopements to micro weddings up to 50 guests. This place is amazing!
Choose the Right Vendors for Your Shenandoah Elopement
Even though eloping gives you the freedom to keep things simple, the right vendors can make your Shenandoah elopement even more special. Whether you want a florist to create a stunning bouquet, a private chef to prepare a celebratory meal, or a hair and makeup artist to help you feel your best, there are incredible vendors who specialize in intimate weddings and adventure elopements. Since Shenandoah is a more remote location, it’s important to find vendors who are willing to travel or are already based nearby. I have a list of trusted vendors who know how to work in outdoor locations, so you don’t have to stress about logistics—just focus on soaking in your epic day!
Have a Plan B when eloping in Shenandoah
Always have a plan B, and make sure everyone involved knows it. Shenandoah is famous for having terrible cell service, so do not rely on your cell phone for directions or where to meet up. Also, weather can greatly affect the trails and Skyline Drive, so make sure you check for road or trail closures before the actual day.
Keep an eye on the weather
When planning your elopement in Shenandoah National Park, keeping a close eye on the weather is essential. The park’s mountainous terrain can lead to changing conditions, so be prepared for anything from sunny skies to sudden rain. Check the forecast frequently as your date approaches, and consider choosing a flexible time for your ceremony to accommodate any weather changes. It’s also wise to have a backup plan in place—whether that’s a covered area or a different location within the park—so you can still enjoy your special day regardless of the elements. Dressing in layers and bringing essentials like umbrellas or blankets can also help you stay comfortable and ready for whatever nature brings!
Final Thoughts on your Shenandoah National Park Elopement
I hope these tips and inspiration help you as you start to plan your own Shenandoah National Park elopement. This truly is an incredible place to get married, and you can’t really beat the views and the environment that you are surrounded by.
Now, you just need a photographer who is ready to take on this adventure with you (hint hint: me!). I love being in this park and just being a part of telling your love story.
You can find out more about my elopement photography services here, or you can reach out to me directly to chat about your own elopement!
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