For any adventurous couple who’s ready to ditch the traditional wedding and get married in the outdoors, the White Mountains of New Hampshire is the perfect destination – whether you’re a local or you travel here to say your vows. Keep reading this guide to learn all about how to elope in the White Mountains!
Weather varies greatly throughout the year in New Hampshire. Winters are typically long and cold, but can be amazing for a wintery elopement at a ski resort or at a cozy cabin Airbnb. Spring, Summer and Fall are your best bets if you want to be outside for most of the day. Fall can bring a lot of tourists, especially to the White Mountains so I highly recommend eloping only on weekdays during September/October. Just by eloping while everyone’s at work, you’ll have a lot more privacy – but be careful of three day weekends!
Where to Elope in the White Mountains
With so many beautiful places in the White Mountains, this might just be the hardest decision you’ll make when it comes to your elopement day! Most of my couples have no clue where they want to elope when they contact me, and that's okay! The locations below are just some of the most popular places in the White Mountains because of their epic views and easy accessibility, but if you don't see what you're looking for, reach out and I'll help you find the best place for you to elope in the White Mountains.
CRAWFORD NOTCH
Crawford Notch is one of my favorite areas in the White Mountains for eloping. It tends to be slightly less crowded than Franconia Notch, and there are multiple spots to visit all within a few minutes drive. There are also several shorter hikes as well as a few longer ones for a full day elopement. Waterfalls, fields, lakes and mountains, this area has it all!
MOUNT WASHINGTON
Mount Washington is the highest peak in the northeastern US, and you can reach the top by hiking or the auto road! If you want to say your vows at the top I recommend early morning to avoid crowds. Mount Washington is a perfect spot for couples that want a big hike or the road for stunning mountain views with no effort! There are several pull offs on the way up, as well as other great locations nearby, so this makes a good option for half-day or full-day elopements.
CATHEDRAL LEDGE/ECHO LAKE
Cathedral Ledge can be reached by auto road (most popular option) or a moderate hike. The road is closed in the winter months, but this spot is perfect for couples that want epic mountain views and are having a few guests with them since the lookout is just a short walk from the parking lot. Echo Lake is just a short 5 minute drive away and has beautiful views looking back up at the ledges.
Skiing
Hiking
Drive the kancamagus highway
Canoeing
Picnic
Snowshoeing
Ice Castles (in the winter!)
Things to do in the White Mountains for your elopement
ready to book your dream elopement?
BEST TIME OF YEAR FOR YOUR WHITE MOUNTAIN ELOPEMENT
MARRIAGE LICENSE
Luckily getting a marriage license in New Hampshire is pretty simple, you'll just need to visit any town clerks office with your ID and $50 for the fee. Marriage Licenses are valid for 90 days after being issued.
OFFICIANT
In New Hampshire you'll need someone to sign your marriage license, you can have either an officiant or friend/family member that is certified to perform a ceremony. Getting ordained is quick and easy (and free!)
WITNESSES
Aside from the officiant, you do not need any other witnesses to be present during the ceremony in New Hampshire
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