If you’ve spent any amount of time looking up Grand Teton elopements, you’ve probably come across the Wedding Tree.
And honestly… it’s easy to see why.
Perched on a bluff overlooking the Teton Range, this simple ceremony site offers one of the most iconic mountain views in Wyoming. It feels tucked away, peaceful, and incredibly intimate while still being easily accessible for couples and guests alike.
The best part?
Despite being known as one of the most beautiful places to get married near Grand Teton National Park, it’s actually located in Bridger-Teton National Forest, not inside the national park itself. That distinction gives couples a few different planning considerations, and in some ways, a little more flexibility.
If you’re considering saying your vows here, here’s everything you should know.
| The Wedding Tree at a Glance | |
|---|---|
| Location | Bridger-Teton National Forest |
| Distance from Jackson | Approximately 20–30 minutes |
| Accessibility | Short, approximately 5-minute walk |
| Guest limit | Legally permitted for up to 75 guests, but best suited for smaller celebrations due to limited parking. |
| Dogs allowed | Yes |
| Restrooms | None on site |
| Cell service | Limited or unavailable |
| Ceremony reservation | Required |
| Exclusive use | No, the surrounding area remains public |
Where Is the Wedding Tree?
The Wedding Tree is located in Bridger-Teton National Forest, just outside the southeastern boundary of Grand Teton National Park. It’s about a 20 to 30-minute drive from the town of Jackson and only a short drive from many of the park’s most popular overlooks and hiking areas.
Although it’s often associated with Grand Teton National Park because of its incredible views of the Teton Range, the ceremony site is actually managed by the U.S. Forest Service in partnership with the Friends of Bridger-Teton.
This distinction is important because it means the Wedding Tree follows a different permitting process and set of regulations than ceremony locations inside Grand Teton National Park. For many couples, that’s actually a benefit. You can exchange your vows at the Wedding Tree, then head into the national park afterward for portraits at iconic locations like Schwabacher Landing, Mormon Row, String Lake, or Snake River Overlook. It gives you the best of both worlds: an unforgettable ceremony with sweeping mountain views and endless opportunities to explore Grand Teton National Park for the rest of your wedding day.
Why Couples Love the Wedding Tree
There are plenty of incredible ceremony locations around Jackson Hole, but the Wedding Tree remains one of the most popular for good reason.
Some of my favorite things about it include:
- Unobstructed views of the entire Teton Range
- Easy access for guests
- Gorgeous light throughout the day
- A naturally beautiful ceremony space that doesn’t need decorations
- Close proximity to many of Grand Teton’s best portrait locations
One thing I especially love is that couples can exchange vows here and then spend the rest of the day exploring Grand Teton National Park for portraits at places like Schwabacher Landing, Mormon Row, String Lake, Snake River Overlook, or Jenny Lake.
Can You Bring Your Dog to Your Wedding Tree Elopement?
One of the best parts about eloping is being able to include the people (and pups!) you love most.
Since the Wedding Tree is located in Bridger-Teton National Forest, dogs are generally allowed, provided they are under control and you follow Forest Service regulations. That makes it a great option for couples who want their four-legged family member to be part of their ceremony.
A few things to keep in mind:
- Keep your dog leashed or under reliable control, especially if other visitors or wildlife are nearby.
- Always clean up after your pet and pack out all waste.
- Bring plenty of water, especially during the warmer summer months.
- Be mindful of wildlife. Moose, bears, elk, and other animals are common throughout the Jackson area, so it’s important to keep your dog close.
One of my favorite ways to include dogs is to have them join the ceremony and a few portraits afterward before a family member or pet sitter takes them back to your lodging. That way, your pup gets to be part of your wedding without having to spend the entire day on your adventure.
If you’re planning to continue exploring Grand Teton National Park after your ceremony, it’s worth knowing that pets are much more restricted inside the park. They are generally only allowed in developed areas, campgrounds, parking lots, and on roads, and aren’t permitted on most hiking trails or in the backcountry. If you want portraits at locations like String Lake, Jenny Lake, or Schwabacher Landing, you’ll likely want someone available to take your dog afterward so you can freely explore the park.
Is the Wedding Tree Inside Grand Teton National Park?
This is probably the biggest misconception. Despite its incredible views of the Teton Range, the Wedding Tree is actually located in Bridger-Teton National Forest, not inside Grand Teton National Park.
That distinction is important because the ceremony site has a different permitting process and regulations than locations inside the national park. For many couples, that’s actually a benefit, as you can enjoy a beautiful ceremony at the Wedding Tree and then head into Grand Teton National Park afterward for portraits and more adventures.
Do You Need a Permit?
Yes. If you’re planning to have your ceremony at the Wedding Tree, you’ll need to obtain an Operating Plan through Friends of Bridger-Teton before your wedding day. This helps protect the site while allowing couples to continue using this beautiful location for ceremonies.
As of 2026:
- Reservations are first-come, first-served.
- Applications should be submitted at least 30 days before your ceremony.
- The current non-refundable processing fee is $300.
- While the permit allows up to 75 guests, I personally recommend keeping your celebration a bit smaller. Parking is limited. A smaller guest count also makes it easier for everyone to enjoy the ceremony and take in the incredible views.
- The Wedding Tree is not an exclusive venue. While your ceremony is reserved, the surrounding area remains open to the public, so it’s possible that hikers or other visitors may be nearby.
A few quick things to know about this location:
- There aren’t any bathrooms on site, so plan ahead before heading out.
- Cell service is usually pretty limited or nonexistent.
- It’s an easy 5 minute walk from the parking area along a trail.
- And yes, dogs are allowed!
Planning the Rest of Your Wedding Tree Elopement
Your Wedding Tree ceremony can be just one part of your elopement day. Because the site is close to Grand Teton National Park, you can exchange vows with your guests before continuing into the park for portraits and other experiences.
You could:
- Share a picnic by Jackson Lake
- Pop champagne with the Tetons behind you
- Explore Schwabacher Landing, Mormon Row, or String Lake
- Rent a canoe or paddleboard
- Look for wildlife along Gros Ventre Road
- Have dinner in Jackson
- Watch the sunset from Snake River Overlook
- End the evening with stargazing
A Sample Wedding Tree Elopement Timeline
Here’s one way a relaxed six-hour elopement could unfold:
2:00 PM: Getting ready at your lodging
3:00 PM: First look and private vows at a scenic stop on the way to the Wedding Tree
4:00 PM: Wedding Tree ceremony
4:30 PM: Family photos and portraits with your dog
5:15 PM: Celebrate with a picnic, cake, or bourbon at Mormon Row
6:15 PM: Explore Grand Teton National Park together
7:30 PM: Sunset portraits with the Tetons
Your timeline will depend on the season, lighting, guest needs, and the experiences you want to include. I’ll help you create a plan that leaves plenty of room to enjoy each part of the day without feeling rushed.
Planning Your Wedding Tree Elopement
The Wedding Tree is a beautiful option whether you’re exchanging vows privately or celebrating with your closest family and friends. With easy access and the Teton Range stretching across the horizon, it offers an unforgettable setting without requiring a long hike.
As your photographer and planner, I’ll help you choose the best ceremony time, navigate the permit process, plan a relaxed timeline, and find beautiful places to explore afterward.
Ready to start planning your Wedding Tree elopement? Get in touch here and tell me what you’re envisioning.
Continue planning your Grand Teton Elopement
You might also find these Grand Teton planning resources helpful as you start planning your day. I’ve put together in-depth guides covering everything from permits and timelines to choosing the perfect ceremony location and bringing your dog along for the adventure. Whether you’re just beginning to plan or narrowing down the details, these articles will help you feel confident every step of the way.
- How to Elope in Grand Teton National Park – Your complete step-by-step planning guide, including permits, timelines, marriage licenses, and my favorite ceremony locations.
- Sunrise vs. Sunset: The Best Time of Day to Elope in Grand Teton National Park – Seasonal weather, road openings, crowds, and what to expect throughout the year.
- Glacier National Park vs. Grand Teton National Park: Which Is Better for Your Elopement? – Compare scenery, accessibility, seasons, permits, crowds, and overall experience to help you decide which park is the perfect fit for your wedding day.
