The Ultimate Guide for Eloping in The Northeast
Everything You Need to Know to Have an Adventurous Elopement in
Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, New York, or Pennsylvania
As a natural born adventurer and full-time elopement photographer and videographer, I know a thing or two about spending time in America’s great outdoors and love having conversations with couples about where they should elope. Over the past few years, couples have gravitated to Instafamous locations like the the Pacific Northwest of Washington and Oregon, the California coast, and my own Appalachian Mountains, and while these destinations are worthy of all that attention (in fact, I’ve created guides for how to elope in all of these places—just click the links above to check ‘em out), I think the Northeast doesn’t get enough credit.
The Northeast’s cities, like New York, Boston, and Philly, get all the attention when it comes to the region, but there’s a whole lotta nature up here to explore, from rocky coastlines to deep forests to craggy mountains. I fell in love with the region when my partner and I took our camper truck to Acadia National Park for three weeks a few years ago, and I was shocked (in a good way!) by the incredible natural beauty of the Northeast.
This region’s natural wonders are reason enough to consider it for your elopement, but there are other advantages to consider, too, like convenience for travelers, mild summers and snowy winters, and seclusion you won’t find in other areas of the country.
CHOOSING A PLACE TO ELOPE
IN THE NORTHEAST
Eloping in Maine
The East Coast’s northernmost state, Maine is 90 percent forest, and it’s coastline is so long that if you stretched it out into a single line, it would reach all the way to California. So yeah, you could say there’s a lot to love about Maine’s outdoors, including some of the most beautiful elopement locations on this side of the country.
Acadia National Park
Acadia is one of the first places in the country to see the sunrise every day, and that’s only the first thing about what makes this place special. This 47,000-acre national park (the oldest east of the Mississippi) is located mostly on Mount Desert Island. While you might assume the landscape of an island is pretty predictable, what makes Acadia unique is the diversity of its landscapes, which include woods, mountains, lakes, and, yes, coastlines.
Climb to the top of Cadillac Mountain and elope under the rosy pink skies of a sunrise or sunset, kayak in Bar Harbor, or take your bikes down the 45-miles of car-free Carriage Roads—there are so many options for how to spend your wedding day in Acadia! If there are fewer than 10 of you, you won’t need a permit; if there are more than 10 folks in your wedding party, you’ll need a permit and you’ll want to plan your ceremony for one of the approved locations like Schoodic Point or Otter Cliff.
Coastal Maine
While Acadia sits on the coast of Maine, it’s worth highlighting the rest of the coast as a potential elopement destination. In addition to the charming small towns and historic lighthouses, Maine’s coast offers plenty of wilderness to explore with views of the cold Atlantic.
Cranberry Isles, a string of islands off Acadia National Park, are named for the native berries that still grow wild here during the fall; these islands offer an outsider-looking-in view of Acadia’s mountains and forests and are beautiful in their own right. If you’re looking for sandy beaches, stay in the southern tip of Maine; 90 percent of the state’s beaches are in the first 30 miles of the state! But if you’re more into the rugged, rocky kind of coast, check out Bailey Island, which offers 216 miles of it.
Eloping in Vermont
They call Vermont the “Green Mountain State,” and it stays true to its name. This little state is packed full of vibrant green forests covering the mountains. With the second smallest population of any U.S. state, one of the best parts of Vermont is that you’re less likely to run into others on the trails.
Camels Hump State Park
Photo by Riley Farabaugh on Unsplash
Named for the mountain at its center—the third highest peak in the state—Camels Hump State Park is the largest in the state. A couple dozen trails of different lengths stretch across the park and its namesake peak, making this a convenient one-stop-shop for adventure in Vermont. If you’re envisioning a winter-wonderland elopement and want to strap on your skis, you might consider the Catamount Trail, a 300-mile ski trail across the state that skirts along the northern and western edges of Camels Hump State Park. If there are more than ten people in your party, you’ll want to apply for a special permit:
Groton State Forest
Inside of Groton State Forest, which was once a major logging region, you’ll find seven state parks. With the Connecticut River Valley to the east and the Green Mountains to the west, these 30,000 acres are rich with natural beauty. There are plenty of unique sights inside the forest, including Peacham Bog, which is circled by the 4.5-mile Peacham Bog Loop Trail and is home to some interesting wildlife, like the carnivorous pitcher plant. In Ricker Pond State Park, take off in a canoe or kayak for some sweet solo time during your elopement day. For your ceremony, though, I’d have to suggest Owl’s Head for its sunset or sunrise views.
State Parks Around Stowe
Photo by Will Swann on Unsplash
Stowe, Vermont, is known for its epic snow sports with famous trails for skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing. You can adventure down Mount Mansfield, the state’s highest mountain, or take to the backcountry for cross-country activities.
But don’t think this isn’t an all-seasons elopement destination! The town of Stowe (which is a cute little town if you’re looking to spend some time indoors, too) is surrounded by state parks and forests, including the 44,000-acre Mount Mansfield State Forest, with grassy fields and mountain backdrops.
Eloping in New Hampshire
With woods (the northernmost part of the state is known as the Great North Woods), valleys, mountains, and the East Coast’s shortest shoreline (just 18 miles), New Hampshire is another Northeastern state with plenty of adventure to offer. Most outdoorsy types flock to White Mountain National Forest (with good reason), but there are other areas of the state to check out for your elopement.
White Mountain National Forest
There are 796,000 acres in White Mountain National Forest to explore in north and central New Hampshire, including 7,700 acres of alpine habitat. The famous mountain in this range is the 6,288-foot Mount Washington, the highest point in the region. There are 1,250 miles of trails across the mountains to explore, including a section of the Appalachian Trail.
The White Mountains offer the kind of mountain adventuring many eloping couples dream of. If you’re fantasizing about getting married from the top of a mountain with endless views, check out Mount Eisenhower; it’s a tough hike, but worth it for a panoramic sightline of the alpine Presidential Range. If you want a waterfall soundtrack, consider a hike to Bridal Veil Falls, a five-mile round-trip trek with smaller falls along the way. In the winter, strap on your snow gear and celebrate your wedding in Cannon Mountain Franconia Notch State Park.
Bear Brook State Park
Near the coast of New Hampshire is Bear Brook State Park: 10,000 acres of mountains, ponds, and marshes dotted with golden wildflowers in spring and sprinkled with a rainbow of falling leaves in autumn. With 40 miles of trails—including plenty for mountain biking—this is another great option for adventurers.
If you’ve got your heart set on a beachy elopement, you can take a 50 minute drive from Bear Brook to Seabrook Dunes & Beach. It’s less developed—and therefore less popular—than the rest of New Hampshire’s narrow coast.
Eloping in New York State
I know that many of us associate New York with the city, but New York State has spectacular, diverse wilderness areas with plenty of quiet coves perfect for an intimate elopement. Home to a stretch of the Appalachian Mountains, the Adirondacks, the Great Lakes, and famous valleys, New York State really is one for adventurers.
The Finger Lakes
Carved by glaciers, the eleven finger lakes are the namesake of this region—which sits in Central New York—but you’ll also find other beautiful water features here, including part of Lake Ontario, a section of the Erie Canal, and dozens of waterfalls.
Watkins Glen State Park is the most notable state park in the region, known for its streams and waterfalls: In just two miles, the water drops 400 feet and creates 19 waterfalls. With stone bridges and layered cliffs, it’s a dreamy backdrop for an elopement. Robert Treman State Park offers similar views of gorges and waterfalls.
And of course, there’s the lakes themselves, with miles of water to explore via boat, kayak, canoe, or SUP. The Finger Lakes National Forest rests between Seneca and Cayuga Lakes and offers 16,036 acres with plenty of lake views.
The Catskills
Photo by Matej Sefcik on Unsplash
Long known as the resort area for New York City socialites, it’s easy to see why city dwellers have always come here to escape! There are thousands of miles of trails to explore across the Catskills Mountains, over grassy mountain peaks, through forests, and past bubbling waterfalls. Some say the best sunsets and sunrises in the region are seen from Giant Ledge; camp out here for stargazing after you say “I do.”
For a really unique hike, check out Sam's Point in Minnewaska State Park. The 7.5-mile hike includes a ladder climb, ice caves, panoramic mountain views, and a view from above of Verkeerderkill Falls. Or check out the backcountry bridges and waterfalls of the loop around the Neversink River Unique Area, which follows the Neversink River.
Eloping in Pennsylvania
Think Pennsylvania is all plains and cities? Think again. The Appalachian Mountains run straight through the center of this state and, while it’s the only state in the Northeast without an ocean coastline, there are more than 100 miles of coastline along Lake Erie and the Delaware Estuary.
Ricketts Glen State Park
Photo by Cameron Venti on Unsplash
In the Northeastern corner of Pennsylvania is Ricketts Glen State Park, one of the most beautiful areas of the state. Over 13,000 acres hold woods and waterfalls with well-maintained trails and bridges. The challenging (and appropriately named) 7.2-mile Falls Trail is worth the trek, with views of 21 official waterfalls (there’s also a shorter 3.5-mile loop with views of 18 of the falls). It’s got a reputation for being a moderate hike, so you’ll have your pick of intimate ceremony locations with waterfall backdrops. There’s plenty of camping if you want to stay overnight and even ten on-site cabins if you want something more cozy.
Delaware Water Gap
Photo by Aaditya Bhatt on Unsplash
Along the New Jersey and Pennsylvania border is the Delaware Water Gap, which cuts through the Appalachian mountains. The 70,000-acre Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is a great destination for an adventurous elopement with plenty of options for rafting, canoeing, swimming, fishing, hiking, and rock climbing. Sections of the recreation area feel like wilderness, with striking cliffs rising over the Delaware and stories-high waterfalls like those at Dingman's Falls.
When Is the Best Time to Elope in The Northeast?
While the length and intensity of the seasons shift the farther north you go, in the Northeast you’re guaranteed a few things: cold and snowy winters, mild summers, and some of the prettiest fall foliage in the country. It’s a climate that caters to a lot of different kinds of couples planning their elopements over the course of the year.
Spring
April - June
Spring begins to peek out from beneath the snow in March in southern New England, but it takes a while to reach further north, especially Maine, where true spring temps might not arrive until April or even May. Once the snow melts, overcast skies and plenty of rain feed the vibrant green grass, leaves, and flowers that burst into bloom. Spring in the Northeast flies under the radar, so if you’re looking to avoid crowds but still luck out with good weather, spring might be your season.
Summer
June - August
Summers in the Northeast are beautiful, milder than the more southern parts of the East Coast and with fewer storms, especially further north. More southerly states like Pennsylvania can get humid, but for the most part—especially at higher elevations—you’ll be treated to cool nights and warm days. That being said, you won’t catch a break from the mosquitos up north, so be sure to pack some bug spray! Early July is statistically the best weather the region gets all year long. With the perfect weather and vacations, some of the state and national parks in the Northeast can get crowded during the summer months, so if you’re looking for intimacy in your elopement, this might not be the season for you.
Fall
September - early November
New England is known for its foliage as maples, oaks, and dozens of other kinds of trees turn the hills, mountains, and valleys of the region a rainbow of colors: maroon, crimson, pumpkin, goldenrod, umber, and everything in between. With clear skies and crisp temperatures, autumn in the Northeast is like a fairytale, which is why it’s also the most popular season for visitors. (In fact, leaf peeping contributes $3 billion to the New England economy every year!) That means if you pick this season for your elopement, you’ll want to set your ceremony for sunrise or sunset in a lesser-known area, and even then you might have to navigate crowds.
Winter
November - March
The Northeast is known for its bitterly cold winters with average temperatures in the 20s and 30s, but this is still a season that offers a lot for couples! There’s so many winter sports to enjoy—skiing, snowboarding, snow shoeing, cross country skiing, ice climbing (that’s hard to find elsewhere in the country!). And if you’re looking for a snowy elopement, the Northeast offers some of your best chances for beautiful snow! Some businesses close for the winter months (especially further north), so you’ll want to keep that in mind as you plan.
Tips for Picking Your Elopement Day in The Northeast
My first tip for picking your elopement day may seem obvious, but I swear it’s one a lot of couples overlook: Pick a day that works best for you. Unlike a traditional wedding, you don’t have to think about what’s best for guests, so your first consideration should be which time of year suits your schedules. Cross out times that are busy in your careers or inconvenient for other reasons and move forward from there.
Next, think about the kind of elopement you’re dreaming of: Do you want an adventurous day of hiking with a dip in a lake or waterfall? An intimate winter wonderland? A backdrop of colorful fall leaves? Close your eyes and imagine, and I can just about guarantee it will lead you to a specific season.
Once you’ve landed on a season, there’s an important drawback to consider: Tourism. The more convenient and pleasant a season is for an elopement, the more convenient and pleasant it is for everybody. Keep that in mind as you plan your elopement, especially if you’re looking for a super private, one-on-one ceremony.
Just as certain seasons are guaranteed to be busier, so are certain dates. Try to avoid holidays and long weekends when you know a lot of people are likely to be out exploring nature.
And finally, make sure the location you’ve picked is open during the season you decide on. A lot of seasonal towns, roads, and state and national parks close during the winter months, especially farther north, so confirm your destination will be accessible for the date you choose.
What to Do During Your Northeast Elopement
There’s a lot of planning and dreaming that goes into the moment you’re married, but don’t forget the hours that surround it! Whether you’re a Northeastern native getting away for the day or planning your elopement from some far-off place, you should make the most of your day (or days!) and celebrate in ways that feel special! Some ideas include:
Adventure Ideas:
Hiking
Backpacking
Camping
Mountain biking
Snow shoeing
Skiing & Snowboarding
Canoeing or kayaking
Ice or rock climbing
Waterfall dips
Roasting marshmallows
Collecting sea shells
Hot air balloon ride
Elopement Events:
First dances
Exchanging vows
Cake cutting
First look
Gift exchange
Celebratory meal
Read letters from family & friends
ceremony with loved ones
video chat with family
pop champagne
Toasts
Obtaining a Marriage License & Park Permits in the Northeast.
Rules around getting a marriage license vary from state to state, but here’s what to expect:
Maine
To receive your license, while you can sometimes apply online, you both have to appear in-person at a clerk’s office with valid IDs. There’s no waiting period after you receive your license and it’s valid for 90 days. You’ll need two witnesses at your ceremony, and you have to mail your signed marriage license back to the county clerk within seven days of your ceremony.
Vermont
Marriage licenses are issued by Vermont town clerks (you can fill it out online but have to submit in person), cost $60, and are valid for 60 days from the date issued. During that time an authorized person—like a member of the clergy or judge—must perform your wedding ceremony. You don’t need any witnesses. The officiant has to return the certificate to the town clerk’s office where it was issued within 10 days of the wedding.
New Hampshire
Couples planning to marry in New Hampshire need to go to a town clerk within the state (both of you must be present) to apply for your license; marriage licenses cost $50 and are valid for 90 days. There is no waiting period after you obtain your license, and your ceremony must be performed by an authorized person (clergy, judge, etc.). You don’t need witnesses to get married.
New York
When applying for a marriage license in New York State, the application must be signed by both parties in the presence of the town or city clerk. There is a 24-hour waiting period after you receive your marriage license before it’s valid, so plan accordingly if you’re arriving from out of state. The license is valid for 60 days and costs $40. You’ll need to say your vows in front of and authorized public official or member of the clergy and one witness.
Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, both individuals must go to the marriage license office/bureau/courthouse (this varies from town to town, so research the closest office to your ceremony) and apply. Licenses are not valid until three days after your application, so if you’re visiting Pennsylvania from another state, you’ll want to plan for an extended trip. Licenses are valid for 60 days. In Pennsylvania, you can choose a self-uniting marriage license, which does not require an officiant to solemnize the marriage. You won’t need witnesses.
While you’ll definitely need a marriage license to tie the knot in the Northeast, you may also need a PERMIT if you’re planning to elope inside a state or national park. The rules around permits vary from park to park: Sometimes small groups under ten don’t need a permit; other times they require a free permit; other times you’ll need a paid permit. Be sure to do your research and contact the park to make sure you’ve got the right permit before your elopement.
And, as always, be sure to follow the guidelines of Leave No Trace to respect nature during your elopement!
How to Get Around The Northeast
When my couples are planning an adventurous elopement, I almost always recommend they have a set of wheels ready to take them anywhere. While hiking and biking are my preferred modes of transportation, when it comes to exploring large regions with lots of parks and natural areas, it just makes sense to have a car—whether it’s yours or a rental—to help get you to different destinations. Plus, four-wheel drive is a must-have if you’re planning a winter elopement at higher elevations.
Now, all that being said, New England by train is also a great option! Amtrak has active lines all across the Northeast that might make for a really fun elopement trip. Sure, these will probably drop you off in a busy city hub, but from there it’s easy enough to make your way to the outdoors.
Where to Stay in New England
If you’re planning to arrive for your Northeast elopement from another part of the country (or world!), there’s no shortage of accommodations to choose from! The region is home to hotel chains (not my favorite, but they’re an option), boutique hotels, lots of Airbnbs (including cute A-frames, cozy cabins, lakefront cottages, and historic homes), and plenty of camping, both campgrounds and backwoods options. A lot of the state and national park’s campsites tend to book up months or even a year in advance, so be sure to plan ahead if you’re thinking of sleeping under the stars.
Because this is the oldest area of America, the region has a lot of cool history to explore. While I’m all about an adventure elopement in the outdoors, it’s also fun to spend time in the towns and cities by staying in one of their historic hotels or homes. There are lots of historics inns and bed and breakfasts to choose from, and because they’re privately owned, they’ll be sure to make your elopement special.
https://www.visitnewengland.com/all/top-10-historic-hotels/
What to Wear During Your Northeast Elopement
Multiple outfit changes throughout an adventure elopement aren't unheard of!
Your clothing choices all depends on what adventures you choose to be a part of on your day and what time of year you've chosen for your elopement, but here are some rules of thumb:
Dresses
If you’ve been dreaming your whole life of a white (or any color!) wedding dress, you don’t have to give up that dream just because you’re eloping outdoors! While you can always change once we get to your ceremony spot, there are also plenty of dresses that are adventure-ready. Look for something that’s loose or stretchy in the hips and legs so you can hike, climb, and even jump if you need to. Just be sure to pack a few extra layers in case the weather turns cold, especially since the temps drop once the sun goes down.
Shirts & Pants
The same rules apply for pants: Don’t rule out slacks or nice pants just because you're going to be outside, but do keep your comfort in mind. Choose a pair of pants that have enough give to let you adventure freely; that means loose thighs and hips with plenty of stretch. And again, pack some layers—like jackets and sweaters—just in case it gets cold.
Shoes
Save your feet—and your good shoes!—and wear hiking boots during your adventure. You can always slip into something more dainty during your ceremony, whether that’s heels or dress shoes, but for the sake of practicality and comfort, choose shoes that were made for hiking for the rest of the day. Even if you’re not hiking, having a sturdy and comfortable pair of shoes with traction is going to be the best route for an outdoor adventure.
What About Photography & Videography
To Help You Re-live Your Northeast Elopement?
That’s where I come in
Hi, I’m kathryn!
I am a deep rooted mountain girl at heart from being born and raised in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, but traveling all over the world has consistently made me fall in love with the beauty of each special place. The Northeast is no exception. My first time there was a big road trip adventure full of so many different and unique landscapes. I love nothing more than being in nature with couples like you on such a special day as your elopement day, making sure I can do whatever I can to make things joyful and carefree.
I know what it feels like to stand on a mountaintop and feel the breeze on your face.
I know what it feels like to feel shaded, comforted, protected by the dense forest around you.
I know what it feels like to be brave enough to jump in the depths of a blue, chilly swimming hole and laying on a rock in the sun to get dry.
That is all I want for you and your elopement day.
I want you feel deeply connected to each other and connected to this beautiful planet we get to call home.
I’m here to help make that come to life for you!
How Many Hours Of Coverage Should You Have?
Here’s the deal:
I believe Your Elopement Is Worth More Than 2 Hours
Lots of elopement companies offer short and small packages, covering 1 or 2 hours of time, and thats all.
You might even think that’s really all you need for an elopement, because what else is there to do?
The secret is - There is SO MUCH you can do.
The best part about eloping is that you get to choose things that are tailored just for you.
You aren’t going through the motions of traditions and timelines that are meaningless.
You aren’t eloping because you value your experience less, but because you just want something DIFFERENT.
Something that is more about you as a couple than everyone else.
Something that is stress free and private.
Something that truly represents what you love and value in life.
I help my couples have an elopement day that is filled to the brim with memories, ranging from 4 hours to 2 days of coverage!