Best Places to Elope in Idaho – Epic Spots for Your “I Do”

So, you’re ditching the big wedding and running off to say fuck yes to forever in Idaho? Incredible choice. Idaho is an absolute dream for couples who want breathtaking scenery, adventure, and maybe a few unexpected surprises (like, did you know we have a freaking sand dune desert?). Whether you’re craving misty mountain views, wildflower meadows, or a lakeside elopement with zero hiking involved, this list of the best places to elope in Idaho has got you covered.

Oh, and if you need someone to capture all of it? Hi, hello—I’m your photographer bestie, ready to make this experience feel just as epic as your love story. More on that later, but for now, let’s get you to the where of this whole elopement thing.

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Table of Contents

1. Sawtooth Mountains
2. Idaho Side of the Tetons
3. Bruneau Sand Dunes
4. McCall & Payette Lake
5. Thousand Springs
6. Sun Valley
7. Priest Lake
8. City of Rocks
9. Hot Springs Elopements
10. Airbnb & Backyard Idaho Elopements
11. Why I’m the Idaho Elopement Photographer for You

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1. Sawtooth Mountains – The Classic “Holy Shit, That’s Beautiful” Vibe

The Sawtooths are the place to elope if you want jagged peaks, alpine lakes, and a vibe that screams we should be on a postcard. Whether you want a lakeside ceremony at Redfish Lake or a more secluded mountain meadow moment, the Sawtooths bring the drama in all the best ways.

🚗 Accessibility: Varies! Some spots are drive-up, while others require a short hike.
🌿 Best Time to Elope: June–October (unless you love snow… and I mean love it).

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2. Idaho Side of the Tetons – The Underrated Mountain Elopement Gem

Everyone raves about the Wyoming side of the Tetons, but let’s talk about Idaho’s side—because damn, it’s just as gorgeous with way fewer crowds. Picture yourself saying your vows with those iconic jagged peaks behind you, wildflowers at your feet, and not a single tourist in sight. Sound like a dream? Yeah, it is.

🚗 Accessibility: Some spots are drive-up; others require a short hike.
🌿 Best Time to Elope: June–October.

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3. Bruneau Sand Dunes – For Desert Lovers Who Want Something Unexpected

Idaho is mostly known for mountains and rivers, but surprise! We also have massive sand dunes. Bruneau Sand Dunes feels like stepping into another world, with rolling golden dunes and some of the best stargazing in the state. Sunset ceremonies here? Absolute magic.

🚗 Accessibility: Drive-up and short walks.
🌿 Best Time to Elope: Spring and fall (summer is way too hot unless you like sweating through your vows).

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4. McCall & Payette Lake – Forests, Waterfalls, and Cozy Lake Vibes

McCall is basically Idaho’s version of a Hallmark movie set—charming, cozy, and ridiculously photogenic. Payette Lake gives you waterfront ceremony options, Ponderosa State Park has dreamy forests, and there’s even a hidden waterfall nearby if you want a more private elopement.

🚗 Accessibility: Super easy—drive up and pick your spot.
🌿 Best Time to Elope: Year-round, but summer and fall are chef’s kiss.

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5. Thousand Springs – Waterfalls, Canyons, and Hidden Oasis Vibes

If you love waterfalls but want something a little different, Thousand Springs State Park is the place to be. Picture waterfalls cascading down canyon walls, crystal-clear blue water, and lush greenery that looks straight out of a fairytale. It’s a total hidden gem that somehow still feels like a secret.

🚗 Accessibility: Easy drive-up locations with short trails.
🌿 Best Time to Elope: Spring and early summer, when the waterfalls are at their fullest.

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6. Sun Valley – A Little Bit of Luxury in the Mountains

If you love the idea of an adventure elopement but also want a touch of luxury (think fancy dinner and a spa day after saying “I do”), Sun Valley is where it’s at. Think rolling hills, wildflowers, and alpenglow lighting up the mountains at sunset.

🚗 Accessibility: Easy drive-up locations.
🌿 Best Time to Elope: Summer and fall.

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7. Priest Lake – Secluded and Stunning for a True Escape

For couples who want to feel like they have an entire lake to themselves, Priest Lake in North Idaho is the move. It’s peaceful, remote, and surrounded by lush forests that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale.

🚗 Accessibility: Drive-up locations available.
🌿 Best Time to Elope: Summer and fall.

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8. City of Rocks – A Rock Climber’s Dream with Insane Views

If you love dramatic rock formations and wide-open landscapes, City of Rocks is one of the most unique elopement spots in Idaho. It’s got adventure, it’s got solitude, and it’s got some seriously cool rock formations for epic photos.

🚗 Accessibility: Some spots require a short walk.
🌿 Best Time to Elope: Spring and fall.

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9. Hot Springs Elopements – Because Soaking After Saying “I Do” Is a Vibe

Idaho has over 100 hot springs, which means you can totally have a cozy, intimate elopement followed by a soak under the stars. Some of the best spots include Kirkham Hot Springs, Goldbug Hot Springs, and Boat Box Hot Springs.

🚗 Accessibility: Varies—some are drive-up, others require a short hike.
🌿 Best Time to Elope: Fall and winter (nothing better than hot water on a cold day).

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10. Airbnb & Backyard Idaho Elopements – No Hike, No Stress, Just Vibes

Not every elopement needs a mountaintop moment. Renting a stunning Airbnb in the woods, by a lake, or even right in Boise can be just as special. Want to turn your backyard into an elopement wonderland? String lights, flowers, and boom—instant magic.

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Why I’m the Idaho Elopement Photographer for You

Now that you’ve got the location covered, let’s talk about the person who’s going to document it all—me. I’m here to make your elopement feel like the best adventure of your life, minus the stress. No stiff poses, no awkward moments, just you two, being in love and doing whatever the hell you want on your wedding day.

I’ll help you find the perfect location, give you all the planning tips, and hype you up the entire time. Sound like your vibe? Let’s make this happen.

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Idaho is full of jaw-dropping places to elope, whether you want mountains, lakes, waterfalls, or even a hot spring moment. Wherever you decide to say “I do,” I’ll be there to capture it all.

Let’s get this elopement party started—reach out here!