Best Elopement Locations in Banff National Park

Hi folks, I’m Heather! I’m a Canadian elopement photographer documenting gentle adventures for folks who value presence and connection on their elopement day. I love to help my couples plan their adventure with everything from location guides to vendor recommendations, so you can focus on what’s important: your best adventure yet.

Banff National Park is hands down one of the most amazing places to elope in Canada—and it’s easy to see why! The Canadian Rockies are absolutely stunning, with towering mountain peaks, shimmering turquoise lakes, wildflower-filled meadows, and charming little mountain towns. Plus, there’s the relaxing hot springs and endless outdoor adventures. Honestly, the toughest part is deciding where to start!

I’ve put together a list of some of my favourite elopement locations in and around Banff National Park to help make your decision a little easier!

Moraine Lake

Moraine Lake is one of the most unforgettable spots in Banff National Park for an elopement. Picture this: standing by the shimmering glacier-blue water, with the breathtaking Valley of the Ten Peaks rising behind you as you exchange your vows. It’s truly magical! Just 15 km from Lake Louise, Moraine Lake offers several beautiful trails, so after your ceremony, you can wander and explore the stunning surroundings together.

Access to Moraine Lake by car is limited, so your best options are to take the public shuttle from Lake Louise, hire a private taxi, or stay at the Moraine Lake Lodge right on the lakeshore, which gives you vehicle access. For a more peaceful experience, I recommend opting for a private taxi or staying at the Lodge. The area is much quieter outside of the shuttle hours, and you’ll have all the time you need to explore and enjoy the stunning surroundings at your own pace.

Moraine Lake is one of the most iconic views in Canada, so it can get a little crowded at times. But don’t worry, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the lake without the crowds! Renting a private shuttle or staying at the Moraine Lake Lodge gives you access to the lake outside of the public shuttle hours, giving you a much more peaceful, intimate experience. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds even more, eloping on a weekday can also help you find some extra serenity.

Lake Minnewanka

Lake Minnewanka is a fantastic choice for couples looking for an elopement spot close to the town of Banff. Just a short 15-minute drive away, it offers stunning views and plenty of space for a romantic ceremony. Keep in mind, though, that it’s a popular spot, especially during peak tourist season, so plan some extra time to find parking.

As the largest lake in Banff, there are countless picturesque spots to choose from. A quick 15-minute walk from the parking lot will lead you to the peaceful peninsula, which boasts panoramic views and an ideal spot for a ceremony.

If you’re looking to add a bit of adventure, consider renting a boat at the lake (available from mid-May to mid-October). This is the only lake in Banff where you can use a motorized boat, and there are also canoes and kayaks available for rental.

Peyto Lake

Eloping at Peyto Lake in Banff National Park is a fantastic choice for couples who want breathtaking natural beauty, a bit of adventure, and some peace and quiet. One of the best things about Peyto Lake is how easy it is to get to. The viewpoint is just a short, 10-15 minute walk from the parking lot, so you don’t have to hike for hours to enjoy the stunning scenery. It’s the perfect spot for couples looking for a more relaxed elopement surrounded by jaw-dropping landscapes.

Peyto Lake is located along the Icefields Parkway, a scenic drive that runs through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, making it a convenient stop if you’re exploring Banff and Jasper National Parks. Although it’s a popular spot, it’s much quieter and less crowded than some of the other well-known locations in Banff, like Lake Louise or Moraine Lake. If you plan your elopement early in the morning or later in the evening, you can have the place almost to yourselves, making for a more intimate and peaceful experience.

Be aware though: the hike is short but she is steep!!

Tunnel Mountain Reservoir

Just five minutes from the town of Banff, Tunnel Mountain Reservoir is a beautiful meadow with Mount Rundletowering above it. This spot is one of the easiest to access in the area—no hiking required—making it perfect for couples who want a simple, stress-free elopement.

If you’re looking to be close to restaurants, accommodations, and other amenities in Banff, this is a great choice. You’ll have all the convenience of the town while still enjoying a peaceful, natural setting.

The reservoir itself offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Tunnel Mountain, which gives the area its name. The tranquil waters and rugged landscape create a gorgeous backdrop for your ceremony, whether you want to be by the water or tucked into the forested areas nearby.

Though it’s a well-known spot among locals, the Tunnel Mountain Reservoir is generally much quieter than some of Banff’s more famous locations like Lake Louise or Moraine Lake. So, if you’re looking for a private, intimate elopement away from the crowds, this is the perfect place to say your vows in peace.

Bow Lake

Bow Lake offers a breathtaking backdrop for your elopement. The vibrant turquoise waters shimmer against the dramatic mountain peaks and glaciers, with the iconic Bow Glacier towering in the distance. It’s a truly unforgettable spot for saying your vows.

Whether you choose to have the lake as your backdrop or explore the nearby forested areas, Bow Lake’s natural beautyensures that your photos will be absolutely stunning and full of memories that last a lifetime.

Though Bow Lake is undeniably gorgeous, it’s often overlooked in favor of more famous spots like Lake Louise or Moraine Lake. This means you’ll enjoy a quieter, more intimate ceremony with fewer tourists around. If you’re after some peace and privacy, Bow Lake is a perfect choice—especially if you visit early in the morning or later in the evening when the crowds are lighter.

Getting there is easy, too. The lake is accessible via the Icefields Parkway, one of the most scenic drives in Canada. It’s just a short walk from the parking lot to the water’s edge, so while it’s easy to reach, it still feels wonderfully remote and serene—ideal for couples who want the beauty of nature without a long hike.

If you want to add a little adventure to your day, there are also nearby trails, like the Bow Glacier Falls trail, that let you explore the area even further.

Next Steps

Now that you’ve seen some of the gorgeous locations you can elope in in Banff National Park, reach out so we can chat about which locations are the best for your elopement!