How to Plan an Elopement in Alaska Beyond Hiking

When it comes to adventure elopements, Alaska, offers an abundance of awe-inspiring landscapes that go beyond the conventional. While hiking is a popular way to explore the wild beauty of this stunning state, not everyone is inclined or able to take on trails. Thankfully, Alaska offers so much more for couples seeking a unique and unconventional experience for their special day. In this blog post, we will explore the possibilities of an unforgettable Alaska elopement that goes beyond hiking, allowing you to be present in nature’s beauty while creating lifelong memories on your wedding day.

Photo by: The Adams Co

Choosing the Perfect Location

Scenic Waterfront Locations:

Alaska offers an extensive coastline, beautiful lakes, and rivers that showcase breathtaking backdrops that are ideal for an adventure elopement without the need for extensive hiking. Consider exchanging your vows on a tranquil beach, overlooking the glistening waters, or by a peaceful lake surrounded by towering mountains. These locations provide a sense of tranquility and offer opportunities for stunning alaska elopement photos.

Discover Charming Alaskan Towns:

Alaska is home to charming towns that offer a unique blend of rustic beauty and Alaskan hospitality. Consider planning your elopement in towns such as Homer, Seward, Girdwood, Valdez or Skagway, where you can find picturesque streets, cozy cabins, and stunning views without the need for extensive hiking. These towns offer a charming and intimate atmosphere, perfect for an Alaska elopement experience that is both romantic and memorable.

Opt for Scenic Drives and Overlooks:

Alaska's scenic highways and overlooks provide insane views without the need for strenuous hikes. Elope to Alaska and plan your special day near iconic viewpoints, such as The Turnagain Arm Highway, Denali National Park or Matanuska Glacier, where you can admire Alaska's vast landscapes from the comfort of your vehicle or a short walk. These spots offer breathtaking panoramas that will leave you in awe and create stunning memories for your destination wedding in Alaska.

Secluded Wilderness Lodges:

Escape to a secluded wilderness lodge tucked away in Alaska's remote corners, where you can immerse yourselves in the beauty of nature without the need for extensive hiking. These lodges provide an intimate and exclusive setting for your elopement, surrounded by mountains, lush forests, or serene lakes. Imagine eloping in Alaska and saying your vows in the privacy of a cozy cabin or on a deck overlooking the wilderness.

Choosing your Elopement Activities

Explore by Sea:

Embrace the beauty of Alaska exploring the pristine waters, discovering hidden coves, glaciers, and remote islands which are sure to make for an unforgettable elopement day. Charter a boat or kayak to explore the magnificent glaciers and icy fjords. Exchange vows on the deck as you navigate the waters, with glaciers as your witness. This experience offers a sense of beauty that will create an unforgettable elopement in Alaska. Consider locations such as Resurrection Bay, Prince William Sound, Kodiak Alaska and Sitka where you can enjoy the dramatic glacial icebergs and the beauty of Alaska's marine wildlife.

Scenic Helicopter Ride:

For an opportunity to access remote and breathtaking locations you and your partner can choose a helicopter elopement in Alaska to soar above mountain peaks, hover near glaciers, and land in secluded alpine meadows or valleys.

Don’t underestimate the anticipation of the helicopter flight, as the thrill of landing in remote and wild locations will definitely add an element of excitement to your special day.

Helicopter elopements in Alaska offer the ultimate level of privacy and intimacy. With only you, your partner, vendors of choice and the pilot on board, you can exchange vows in a secluded location away from crowds and distractions. It allows you to focus entirely on each other and create a deeply personal and meaningful elopement day in the heart of Alaska's wilderness.

Seaplane Escape:

Charter a seaplane for a romantic and intimate elopement adventure. Fly to a secluded island or a remote cove, where you can exchange vows while surrounded by the untouched beauty of Alaska's coastal scenery. The seaplane journey itself will be an exciting part of your elopement story and will make for some epic photos.

Photo by Sarah French Photo

Alaskan Wildlife Encounters:

Another thrilling element to include in your adventure elopement is the chance to witness Alaska's diverse wildlife up close. Plan your elopement near areas known for wildlife sightings, such as Kodiak Island or the Kenai Peninsula. Imagine saying your vows with bald eagles soaring overhead or catching a glimpse of humpback whales breaching in the distance. These encounters will add an element of wonder and excitement to your special day. Consider incorporating a wildlife excursion into your elopement itinerary, such as a whale-watching tour or a visit to a bear viewing area, to create unforgettable moments with Alaska's fascinating wildlife.

Winter Wonderland Activities:

For couples seeking a winter elopement, Alaska's snowy landscapes provide an enchanting backdrop. Consider planning your elopement during the winter months and embrace the unique opportunities that this season offers. Imagine saying your vows amidst snow-covered forests, with the beauty of ice crystals sparkling all around you. Locations such as Matanuska Glacier, Girdwood, Fairbanks and the Chugach Mountains offer excellent opportunities for winter elopements, providing a snowy wonderland for your special day.

A few of our favorite activities that don’t involve hiking include:

Dog Sledding:

Experience the thrill of gliding through snow-covered landscapes while being pulled by a team of energetic sled dogs. Dog sledding is an iconic Alaskan activity and can be a unique addition to your winter elopement adventure.

Snowmobile Excursion:

Embrace the winter wonderland of Alaska with a snowmobile elopement. Explore snowy trails, enchanting forests, and frozen lakes on a guided snowmobile tour. Find a picturesque location to exchange vows and create memories against the backdrop of the serene white landscape.

Northern Lights Viewing:

Witnessing the mesmerizing dance of the Northern Lights is a bucket-list experience. Consider planning your elopement ceremony during the late evening or early morning hours to increase your chances of catching the magical lights show.

Ice Fishing:

Embrace the Alaskan winter tradition of ice fishing. Drill a hole in a frozen lake and try your luck at catching fish such as trout, salmon, or arctic char. It can be a fun and rewarding activity to include in your winter elopement experience.

Hot Tubbing

For couples seeking a touch of relaxation and romance amidst their unconventional adventure, including hot tubbing experiences can add an extra layer of luxury and intimacy.

Ready to plan your Unconventional Adventure Elopement in Alaska?

Planning an elopement in Alaska that doesn't involve hiking opens up a world of possibilities for couples seeking a special experience amidst nature's grandeur. As a full service elopement planner, AKhappenings is here to help you navigate through the options, curating a personalized elopement that reflects your love story and captures the magic of Alaska. Whether you choose a scenic waterfront location, discover charming Alaskan towns, opt for scenic drives and overlooks, explore by sea, embark on helicopter, plane and boat adventures, your Alaska elopement will be a cherished memory that lasts a lifetime. Let us be your destination elopement planner to an unforgettable celebration in Alaska.

If you want to start planning your winter elopement, contact me!