5 Beautiful Places to Elope Outdoors in Vancouver, BC
Thinking about eloping in or around Vancouver? Looking for the perfect outdoor non-wedding “venue”? You are in the right place, my friend.
As a Vancouver elopement photographer, I’ve seen my fair share of venues and elopement spots. And, with mountain elopements still being a super popular option for couples, I figured it was time to dish!
Keep reading for my top 5 favourite places to elope outdoors in the Vancouver area! Especially if your dream wedding day involves hiking and being in nature, you’ll love these options.
P.S. Don’t forget to Pin this post for future reference! (I see you, maids of honour and not-yet-engaged-but-in-a-serious-relationship ladies, and I like your style.)
My Top 5 Favourite Mountain Elopement Locations in Vancouver
In no particular order, here are the 5 spots I think you would LOVE!
#1 Joffre Lakes
Joffre Lakes is a truly stunning elopement location. It looks like it’s straight out of National Geographic or a storybook, but in reality it’s just north of Whistler!
Joffre is made up of 3 lakes in total, all surrounded by stunning peaks that you can hike (or, I should say, that we can hike) on your elopement day! It can be busy during the summer, but honestly, it’s worth it. I promise that solitude, peace, and quiet aren’t impossible to find-- even in ‘peak’ times. (See what I did there? Just a little mountain humour for ya.)
Please note, a free day pass is needed to access the Lakes. You can book your day pass up to 2 days in advance. There are also general public black out dates. Also, be sure to check here for dates when the park will be closed.
LESS INTENSE HIKING OPTIONS
If you’re dreaming of an elopement day that starts and ends with a hike but Joffre isn’t for you, there are tons of other options in the area.
Feeling adventurous? We can take the chairlift to the top of Peak on Whistler and you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world!
Want to keep it chill? Let’s just stroll around Lost Lake and take advantage of the many photo opportunities the trails provide us.
#2 Squamish & Howe Sound
Smoke Bluffs in Squamish, BC is an amazing, and flexible location for a hiking elopement. With a dozen trails all accessed via similar trail entrances, we’ll easily be able to find a place for you to exchange vows.
Enjoy views of the Howe Sound, the Chief, and the Sea To Sky Highway will being surround by forest and mountains. This easy to moderate hike can take as long or a little as you want with makes it perfect for either a half-day or full-day hiking elopement day.
Not feeling the Smoke Bluffs? No stress! There are plenty of other options in the area, like:
Squamish River
#3 The North Shore
If you’re not in the mood to drive anywhere far on your wedding day, that’s okay! We have some great full-day elopement options on our local Vancouver shores.
My favourite places to go for private ceremonies with a view are:
Quarry Rock in Deep Cove
Dog mountain on Mount Seymour
Whyte Lake via Nelson Creek Trail
#4 Lighthouse Park
Okay, I LOVE Lighthouse Park! It’s the perfect option for a half-day elopement package or as one of our portrait locations because it offers:
Incredible water views
Tons of easy and beginner trails
Short hikes with easy-access views (You can access the lighthouse in under 10 minutes if you want to!)
Mature Douglas Fir and Red Cedar trees (Great for adding drama to photos!)
If you’re looking for something quiet and secluded, I’d recommend a sunrise session. Because of its proximity to the city, Lighthouse Park stays busier until sunset.
Note: Pay parking is in effect. Check here for the latest pay parking regulations.
#5 Eagle Bluffs
This out-and-back trail near Strachan Creek on Cypress Mountain offers views of the ocean, lakes + mountains, ideal for full-day elopements. If you have dreamt of eloping in BC with a bit of snow, without the super chilly temps, early spring is the perfect time to plan your mountain elopement.
Major PNW Elopement Inspo
Interested in the idea of eloping outside in the BC area, but need a little help picturing the whole thing? I’ve got you covered! Click the links below for some elopement inspo:
Aki & Andy’s Whistler Engagement
Are you guys planning on eloping?
And, if so, do you need an outdoorsy, adventurous, game-for-whatever-you-have-in-mind, co-conspirator/photographer? Because if you are, I just might be your girl!
Check out my elopement page for more information, or skip all that and just contact me to set up a free consultation. I’d love to hear about the elopement you’re dreaming up!