How to Elope in Idaho
Idaho may still be slightly off the beaten track, but it won’t be for long. It is no wonder this hidden gem of a state is the fastest-growing in the United States. In the Intermountain Northwest, the Gem State is rich in natural parks, hot springs, and waterfalls higher than Niagara Falls. With some of the best-preserved 19th-century architecture this side of the Mississippi, Idaho is the perfect escape for exploration and outdoor recreation.
Why elope in Idaho?
Nature is huge in Idaho. As one of the Rocky Mountain states, it boasts more than 110 named mountain ranges, not to mention the beautiful bodies of water running through it. For a rugged and outdoorsy elopement, you can’t go wrong with an Idaho setting. Whether you seek snow-capped mountain peaks or white water rapids, Idaho’s natural beauty abounds. With four gorgeous seasons to choose from and less competition for elopement dates, it is never a bad idea to elope in Idaho.
When is the best time of year to elope in Idaho?
Idaho experiences all four seasons to their fullest. Snowy winters make for magical scenery and epic skiing. Summers are perfect for hiking. In autumn, the state’s fall foliage starts to pop, and with the spring comes the annual thaw and reawakening of Mother Nature.
For an outdoor elopement in Idaho, be aware that winter can come early and stick around for ages. Once October arrives, temperatures begin to fall into the 50s and beyond — and the chill won’t let up until late April or even May. Even on the fringes of these colder months, you will want to check the availability of certain trails, which may be closed due to excess snow.
For self-proclaimed snow bunnies, a winter elopement in Idaho may be a good fit! Expect it to be both cold and snowy on a regular basis. If it’s a winter wonderland you’re after, Idaho has you covered.
While summer is Idaho sunny, keep in mind that August in Boise is really hot and dry. Temperatures regularly top 100 degrees and the sun can be punishing, so plan accordingly.
Places to elope in Idaho
We offer elopement packages in Idaho with a focus on Boise and Sun Valley. Get in touch with us to receive a custom quote for the other locations where you can elope in Idaho!
Boise
For wide-open spaces and luxurious rolling hills, look no further than the Boise Foothills. Jutting right up against the capital city, the Boise Foothills is a great place for impressive elopement photography with the dazzling city skyline as your backdrop.
Nestled on 50 lush acres, the Idaho Botanical Garden is home to a variety of themed gardens for your elopement ceremony. Choose from spaces like the Meditation Garden, Water Garden, and Rose Garden. Vendor fees will apply here.
Buffered by green gardens and made of marble, the Idaho Capitol Building makes for an extra enchanting and extra simple wedding venue. Choose from the extravagant front steps and the glamorous Capitol Rotunda. Note that reservations are not required for public use of the State Capitol, so permission to use these spaces is granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Sun Valley
A truly unique destination unto itself, the Bow Bridge of the Big Wood River is a monumental pedestrian bridge spanning the Big Wood River. Over 160 feet long, the Bow Bridge connects the east and west sides of the Draper Wood River Preserve and the Hailey Greenway respectively. On the east side of the bridge, you’ll find a 17-foot steel arrow.
Redfish Lake is crystal clear and safe for swimming, flanked by the imposing peaks of the Sawtooth National Forest. With ultra-blue waters surrounded by deep green pines and snowy mountains, this lake doesn’t have any bad angles, making it a dream location for an elopement photo shoot.
