So, you’re thinking about eloping in Idaho? First of all—hell yes! Second, let’s get one thing straight: you don’t have to be an adrenaline junkie or climb a damn mountain to elope here. Sure, Idaho has epic peaks, but it also has rolling hills, quiet lakes, funky little towns, and hidden-gem venues where you can get married without breaking a sweat.

Whether you want a wild adventure or a simple, stress-free ceremony, this guide will walk you through the best places to elope, budget-friendly tips, and everything else you need to know to make your Idaho elopement unforgettable.

Table of Contents

1. Why Idaho is the Best Damn Place to Elope
2. Best Idaho Elopement Locations
3. How to Elope in Idaho (Without a Headache)
4. Making the Most of Your Idaho Elopement Budget
5. Who the Hell Am I & Why You’ll Want Me There
6. Let’s Make This Happen

Why Idaho is the Best Damn Place to Elope

If you’re here, you’re probably already at least entertaining the idea of eloping in Idaho. Maybe you want jaw-dropping scenery without the crowds of Yosemite. Maybe you don’t feel like selling a kidney to afford a big wedding. Or maybe you just don’t give a shit about chair covers and seating charts and would rather say “I do” with the mountains as your witness.

Whatever your reason, Idaho is a top-tier elopement destination. You’ve got rugged peaks, crystal-clear alpine lakes, rolling sand dunes, and even some secret hot springs if you know where to look. But here’s the thing— you don’t have to climb a mountain to elope in Idaho. You don’t even have to be outdoorsy. Whether you want a casual ceremony by a quiet lake, a cozy cabin elopement, or a simple courthouse moment followed by tacos, Idaho’s got a spot for you.

Best Idaho Elopement Locations

Idaho is basically nature’s playground, which means you have endless options for where to elope. Here are a few of my favorites:

🏔 The Sawtooth Mountains

Picture this: towering peaks, alpine lakes so clear they look fake, and not a single drunk wedding guest trying to grab the mic for an impromptu speech. The Sawtooths are the spot for couples who want epic views and a little adventure.

✔ Pros:

• Insane scenery (your wedding photos will look like a National Geographic spread)
• Secluded, intimate locations
• Tons of hiking and adventure opportunities

✘ Cons:

• Weather can be moody as hell (hello, mountain storms)
• Some areas require permits (info here)

🌊 Shoshone Falls

Dubbed the “Niagara of the West,” Shoshone Falls is perfect if you want a jaw-dropping waterfall in the background but don’t want to trek for hours to find it.

✔Pros:

• Accessible—no hiking required
• Dreamy waterfall views
• Easy to plan a simple ceremony

✘Cons:

• Can get crowded in summer
• Permit required for ceremonies (apply here)

🌊 Payette Lake

Want a waterfront elopement but don’t feel like flying to the coast? Payette Lake in McCall is a chef’s kiss location. Think cozy cabins, mountain views, and a cute little lakeside town to celebrate in after. And for my non-hikers—this one’s a breeze. No trekking required.

✔ Pros:

• Gorgeous lake and mountain views
• Accessible year-round
• Cute town for post-ceremony food and drinks

✘ Cons:

• Summer crowds can be a lot
• Less secluded than some mountain locations

🔥 Hot Springs Elopement

Yes, you can get married in a hot spring. And yes, it’s as dreamy as it sounds. Idaho has a bunch of natural hot springs tucked away in the mountains, which means you can exchange vows and then soak under the stars.

✔ Pros:

• Ultimate relaxation vibes
• Unique and intimate setting
• No need to book a post-wedding spa day

✘ Cons:

• Some springs get busy (hello, random tourists in the background)
• Not all locations are easy to access

Want a hot springs elopement but don’t know where to start? Hit me up and I’ll help you find the perfect spot.

How to Elope in Idaho (Without a Headache)

So, you’re sold on the whole “elope in Idaho” thing. Here’s what you need to know to actually do the damn thing.

1. Get your marriage license – You can get one at any county clerk’s office in Idaho (find one here). No waiting period, and it’s valid immediately.
2. Pick your officiant – Idaho requires an officiant, which can be a judge, ordained minister, or even my husband, Nate (who doubles as an officiant and a Super 8 videographer—what a guy).
3. Get your witnesses – Your officiant works as your witness, but you’re more than welcome to have up to two other witnesses to sign your marriage license!
4. Check for permits – Some locations require a permit, so make sure you’re covered.

Need help figuring out permits or logistics? Let’s chat.

Making the Most of Your Idaho Elopement Budget

Eloping is way more affordable than a traditional wedding, but costs can still add up. Here’s how to make sure your money is going to the stuff that actually matters:

✔ Pick a location with low permit fees – Some places (like national forests) have minimal costs, while others (like national parks) charge more.
✔ Go off-season – Summer can be pricey AF, but fall and winter elopements? Way more budget-friendly.
✔ Bundle your vendors – Some photographers (hi, me) offer packages that include photography, planning help, and officiating. Saves you money and stress.

Who the Hell Am I & Why You’ll Want Me There

Hey, I’m Natalie. I’m an Idaho-based elopement photographer who believes your wedding day should be yours—not your great-aunt Susan’s. I’m here to help you craft an elopement experience that actually feels like you, whether that means hiking into the backcountry, soaking in a hot spring, or grabbing burgers and fries after you say “I do.”

I specialize in working with couples who don’t fit the “traditional wedding” mold. The awkward, the introverted, the ones who’d rather spend their money on travel than chair covers—those are my people. And if you’re worried that eloping means you have to be some badass, outdoorsy adventurer? Don’t be. You don’t have to scale a peak or camp in the wilderness to have a beautiful, meaningful elopement. Whether you want something simple, a little bit fancy, or full-on quirky, I’ve got you.

Let’s Make This Happen

If eloping in Idaho is calling your name, let’s do the damn thing. I’ll help you find the perfect spot, plan your day, and capture every epic, emotional, and in-between moment.

Let’s talk and start planning your Idaho elopement!