Guide to Elope at the Smoky Mountains National Park | Locations, planning tips, packages, etc.
by Wanderlust Elopements
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is like the big and long mountain range in the US, spreading over 800 square miles along the Tennessee-North Carolina line. Think misty valleys, stunning waterfalls, and views that just go on and on. If you're planning to get married in nature, eloping in the Smoky Mountains could be your sweet spot!
1. Why should you elope at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
Eloping in the Smoky Mountains is a dream! You truly get the best of both worlds here — the park has beautiful, accessible locations where you can have your ceremony with family, and then head off on an adventure to another spot just the two of you.
Eloping at the park is really affordable; the fee cost is just $50. That's a really good price to get married in one of the most popular national parks in the U.S.
If you want to include some family in your elopement day, the park offers drivable locations and other spots where you can hold slightly larger ceremonies.
by Wanderlust Elopements
2. How to Elope in The Smoky Mountains
1. Choose the Perfect Season
Tennessee has all four seasons, so you can choose the one that best matches your vibe and the kind of scenery you want for your day. Each season has its pros and cons, but with the right planning, you can have an amazing experience in any of them. It’s way better if you pick a weekday, you can find more seclusion and avoid traffic.
by Wanderlust Elopements
Spring: One of my favorite seasons in the smokies for elopements because everything looks amazing! So many colors, wildflowers and the rivers flowing nicely. Spring weather is perfect to get married in nature and in my personal opinion spring is perfect if you’re looking to elope next to a waterfall.
Best Months: Late April - Early June
Spring showers are possible, so have a backup plan for unexpected rain or bring raincoats or a nice umbrella.
Summer: June to August brings lush greenery to the Smoky Mountains, with long days and dreamy sunsets. Summer is a fun choice if you’re into activities like kayaking, canoeing, or spending time at a waterfall. It’s also a great season for sunrise elopements.
Best months: June- August
This is a very busy season at the Smokies. Early mornings are fully recommended for weather conditions and for avoid the crowds. Finding a parking spot can be a problem as well if you go during busy hours. Picking a weekday will give you a better experience to your elopement
Fall: The most popular time to elope in the Smokies. The mountains come alive with a blaze of red, orange, and gold as the foliage reaches its peak. Cooler temperatures make for comfortable outdoor celebrations. Some Designated locations like Cades Cove have an October Restrictions. No permits for Saturdays and Sundays; only 1 event per day Monday - Friday.
Best Months: Late October - Early November
Higher visitor numbers, so plan ahead for popular locations.
Winter: For those who appreciate a serene and snow-kissed landscape, December to February offers a unique elopement experience. The park's quiet beauty and the possibility of a light dusting of snow create a magical winter wonderland.
Colder temperatures, so dress accordingly, and some areas may be closed due to snow or ice. There are also rainy days so having a backup plan or indoor ceremonies are recommended. Renting a cozy cabin close to the mountains can be a really good option.
by Wanderlust Elopements
2. Pick your spot
Now it’s time to pick your spot. The Smokies have designated locations where ceremonies are allowed, with some spots accommodating up to 20 people. There are also seasonal availability restrictions, so planning ahead is key. Choosing the right location at the right time — and working with someone local who knows the park well — can make a huge difference in your overall experience.
3. Check the availability for your chosen spot.
The permit to Elope at the Great Smoky Mountains is $50. It’s recommended get this permit as soon as possible, some locations fill up really fast and they allow just one ceremony per day.
Apply for your permit at least 2 months in advance.
Check availability and make a tentative reservation by emailing your request prior to submitting an application. if the requested date and location are available, a tentative reservation will be made to hold the location.
Parking pass are required for those who park for longer than 15 minutes.
4. Create your Timeline
Once you know your location is available on the date you’re looking at, you can start building your experience and timeline. Make sure you allow enough time for each activity so you’re not rushing and can arrive on time to every location, especially your ceremony spot. Keep in mind that parking isn’t reserved and is shared with other visitors, so if you’re bringing a few people along, it’s important to plan ahead and leave extra time for parking and possible traffic delays.
5. Get your permit
Once you know how your day is going to flow, you can go ahead and apply for your permit at the right time for your ceremony and get your date secured. This is also a great moment to start reaching out to other vendors like a makeup artist or florist.
6. Get Married!
Time to day “I do”, you’ll have the best experience in your Smoky Mountain Elopement!
3. Locations to Elope at The Smoky Mountains
4. Activities that you can include in your Elopement day at the Great Smoky Mountains
The Great Smoky Mountains offer different activities to enhance your experience and make your visit truly unforgettable.
Here's a diverse list of activities to consider:
Hiking: The park has the most charming trails ever! you’ll be surprise how pretty they can be, there are plenty of options from easy trails to longer hikes, all of them totally worth it!
Scenic Drives: Enjoy a scenic drive through Cades Cove Loop, Newfound Gap Road, or Foothills Parkway.
Horseback Riding: Enjoy horse riding along designated trails. Cades Cove and Smokemont offer horseback riding opportunities, providing a unique perspective of the park.
Waterfall Chasing: You can have mountains and alsoo a waterfall backdrop!
Camping: Experience the park overnight by camping at one of the developed campgrounds or backcountry campsites.
Fishing: Fish for trout and other native species in the park's streams and rivers. Obtain the necessary fishing permit before casting your line.
You can go for a canoe or kayak ride.
5. Eloping with Family at the Smoky Mountains
Including some family to your Smoky Mountain elopement can be really memorable! There is amazing spots here you can hold a little ceremony and having your loved ones there with you. Here are some considerations when you want to have some guests:
Some outdoor locations are limited to a maximum 20 people, 1 hour of use, and 6 vehicles. These limits include all individuals in attendance, including vendors and their associated vehicles
Historic churches are limited to a maximum of: 50 people, 1 1⁄2 hours of use, and 8 vehicles. These limits include all individuals in attendance, including vendors and their associated vehicles. The time limit includes setup, ceremony, photography and clean up.
I fully recommend renting a cozy cabin or Airbnb in one of close towns like Gatlinburg, Townsend, Sevierville. Which is perfect for “get ready photos”and celebrate with your guests after your ceremony.
Appalachian Clubhouse, Spence Cabin and Picnic Pavilions are rental facilities that provide exclusive use of an area. Rental facilities have designated capacities and reserved timeframes and, as such, all activities and services are subject to the rental facility parameters. Facilities have wheelchair accessible entrances and restrooms. Both a reservation and special use permit are required when wedding ceremonies are held at these locations. Reservations should be made through www.recreation.gov and are available 1 year in advance.
You still can have a little bit of the both words. Having guest in your elopement doesn’t mean that you can’t have an adventure and special moment just with your partner, you guys can plan something before or after de ceremony for just two of you!
6. Sample of Smoky Mountain Elopement Timeline
12:00 pm Meet at your Cabin for “get ready photos” and detail shoots.
1:00pm Drive to the Smoky Mountains
2:00pm First look at Foothills Parkway
2:30pm Start vow ceremony.
3:00pm Celebratory drinks and portraits.
5:00pm Head to your second location for more portraits
6:00pm Explore around your second location and more photos
8:00pm End of Coverage
7. Leave Not Trace at the Smoky Mountains
Leaving no trace in the Smoky Mountains is crucial for preserving the natural beauty of this pristine area. Here are some easy steps to ensure you minimize your impact:
Stick to marked trails to avoid disturbing fragile ecosystems.
Carry out all your waste, including food wrappers and any other items. Leave the park as beautiful as you found it.
If allowed, use established fire rings for campfires. Keep fires small and ensure they are completely extinguished before leaving.
Observe wildlife from a distance and avoid feeding them. It's recommendable bring a bear spray.
If camping, use established campsites and follow Leave No Trace camping principles.
Respect the tranquility of the park by minimizing loud noises.
Learn about the specific Leave No Trace principles for the Smoky Mountains and follow them diligently.
The goal is to leave the Smoky Mountains as untouched and beautiful as possible. This way, each return to celebrate your anniversary brings back the same magical and untouched scenery that made your wedding day so special.
8. Tips to Elope in the Smoky Mountains
Elope in a week day ( tent to be less busy and make your day more intimate).
Create a timeline and give extra time for other activities.
Get your permit with at least 2 month in advance.
Having not more than 10 guest allows to have more location options.
Choose more than one location ( one can be for ceremony and other for portraits).
Choose early morning or sunset for your ceremony.
Bring right footwear and raincoat for unpredictable weather changes.
Rent a close cabin or Airbnb to “get ready” photos.
Hired local photographer, someone that knows all the ins and outs about the park, some area doesn’t have cell service so is important you’re with someone who know how to navigate the park.
9. FAQ’S About Eloping at The Smoky Mountains
Do I need a permit to elope in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
Yes, a special use permit is required for weddings and elopements in the national park.
How do I obtain a special use permit for my elopement in the national park?
Contact the Great Smoky Mountains National Park's Special Park Uses office for information on obtaining a special use permit. Be sure to apply well in advance of your planned elopement date. Here you can find more information.
Are there restrictions on elopement locations within the Great Smoky Mountains?
Yes, certain locations may have restrictions to protect the park's natural and cultural resources. The permit process will include guidelines on suitable elopement locations.
Do we need to hire an officiant to Elope in The Smoky Mountains?
Yes, in Tennessee, it is a legal requirement to have an officiant solemnize your marriage.This could be a religious leader, a judge, a justice of the peace, or a minister, among others.
How many guests can I have at my elopement in the national park?
Guest count restrictions may apply, depending on the location and the park's guidelines. Most of the designated locations allow ceremonies up to 10-15 people.
Do you help to find a good location at the Smokies?
Absolutely! I’m here to guide you with location suggestions for elopements at the Smoky Mountains.
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11. Smoky Mountain Elopement Packages With Wanderlust Elopements
We love capturing elopement days that truly show your relationship as it is. If you're thinking of eloping in Tennessee, you need someone who knows the ins and outs. Our elopement packages are designed to assist couples like you in planning a stress-free Tennessee elopement. Plus, We'll be there to capture every special moment. Take a look at our elopement packages to get started!
Meet your Smoky Mountain Photographers
Hey There!
We’re Luciana & Ethan! The outdoorsy couple behind Wanderlust Elopements.
So, you've decided to elope in Tennessee, but the whole planning thing is making you feel a bit overwhelmed? No worries! YOU don't need to figure all that out by your own. Besides capturing those incredible moments, We’re here to be your guide right from the beginning.
Let's keep it stress-free because, hey, isn't that the whole point of eloping? You shouldn't have to deal with wedding planning chaos. We've got a bunch of cool location ideas to share with you so you can pick the one that feels just right. Need permits? No problem—We'll guide you through that if the location requires it. Looking for a cozy cabin? We've got lodging suggestions to save you from endless searching.
We’re all about exploring Tennessee and finding those hidden gems we can’t wait to share with you! We’re not just here to snap some photos—we’ll help you find the perfect spot to say “I do” and make sure your day feels completely *you.* And of course, we’ll capture every moment with photos you’ll treasure forever. Let’s make it unforgettable!
This sounds good to you and you are ready to start planning your Tennessee Elopement? Contact us to start planning your epic Elopement in Tennessee!
