Banff National Park Helicopter Elopement | Raphaela + Deming

An Adventurous Helicopter Elopement in Banff National Park 

This wedding was an incredible experience. I had been seeing photos of Banff National Park and was dying to visit. Not only did I get to visit this amazing location, I got to join two love birds on a freaking helicopter, passing insane mountains and glaciers, on the way to their wedding ceremony location in a remote area of Marvel Pass. We then continued to adventure to some of the most beautiful locations I have ever seen, including Peyto Lake and Bow Lake. All the while Raphaela + Deming were laughing together and exchanging sweet glances.

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A picturesque mountain town in Alberta, Canada, Banff is a location that totally inspires when it comes to elopements. It’s decorated beautifully with glacial lakes, rolling mountains, seemingly infinite wildlife, and other scenic views to marvel upon. 

And did you know that over three million visitors flock to Banff National Park every year for various fun activities? Hiking, biking, skiing, and camping, to name a few. And for couples in love, this spot exudes romance, natural beauty, and charm. 

So here are five gorgeous places for a lovely elopement in the Banff National Park region.

Banff National Park Elopement Locations

Marvel Pass

Nature lovers, Marvel Pass will simply blow you away! Period. But what’s also absolutely amazing about eloping at Marvel Pass, is that you can opt for a “flight for two,” making use of a helicopter to land at your understated elopement location. 

Adventure seekers, this is definitely something to consider. A Marvel Pass helicopter ride will take you over the Three Sisters, the Spray Reservoir, Marvel Lake, and Mount Assiniboine. 

It lands conveniently beside the Aurora Lake, giving you a variety of amazing backdrops for your ceremony. 

Peyto Lake

Peyto Lake, a vibrant blue lake in the Canadian mountains, is calling your name for a nature-filled, simple yet breathtaking elopement in Banff. 

And if you’re wondering if the water really is as blue as you see in the postcards…yes, it is! This is because flow from the glaciers drop down into the water during the summer months. 

What’s also amazing about eloping at Peyto Lake is the fact that, the road trip to your chosen intimate spot, is an adventure in itself. The small hike through the gorgeous outdoors is a great opportunity to take photos along the way. And after the ceremony, a bit of exploring calls for even more sweet photos. 

Bow Lake

Bow Lake is one of the largest lakes in Banff National Park, and sits pretty at an elevation of 1,920 m. I adore this location for an elopement for its elegant feel. 

And if you’re lucky, you may just see the awe-inspired Bow Summit reflected in the waters on a clear and calm day. Bow Lake is easy to reach via the main road of the Icefields Parkway. 

Fairmont Banff Springs

For an indoor elopement in Banff National Park, I recommend the Fairmont Banff Springs. 

It’s well-known for elopements of all kinds, and allows for private events - both for elopements and small weddings. 

This location is also known as the “Castle in the Rockies,” and is a four-star hotel that resembles true luxury and sophistication.

For small gatherings, the Observatory shows off mountain views, and the Angus room has the means to host your elopement and a small reception dinner. 

For bigger gatherings, the Ivor Petrak room is 2025 square feet and has heavy oak doors to provide you with the privacy you deserve.

Two Jack Lake

A scenic 18-minute drive from Banff National Park will take you to Two Jack Lake.

It’s a picturesque lake with the opportunity to spot wildlife, go kayaking, hiking, or camping. It’s also a favorite among couples for an adventuresome and nature-inspired elopement.

A little tip: A number of visitors admit that Two Jack Lake is at its most beautiful during the winter, with some dubbing it a “paradise”. 

During the cold season, you can enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains, and the clear icy lake. In fact, it’s possible to go ice skating at this location during the snowy season. An added bonus!

So, whether you’re looking for a natural outdoor setting, or a castle-like elopement set amongst the mountains, these five spots are breathtaking. 

Trust me when I say, you simply cannot go wrong with an elopement in the beautiful Banff National Park.

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This wedding was an incredible experience. I had been seeing photos of Banff National Park and was dying to visit. Not only did I get to visit this amazing location, I got to join two love birds on a freaking helicopter, passing insane mountains and glaciers, on the way to their wedding ceremony location in a remote area of Marvel Pass. We then continued to adventure to some of the most beautiful locations I have ever seen, including Peyto Lake and Bow Lake. All the while Raphaela + Deming were laughing together and exchanging sweet glances.

A million thank yous to Grace of The Soft Season for bringing me along for this one! 

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About the Author: Catalina Jean loves anything sci-fi, has little sense of direction, and spends her free time snuggling her crazy Boston Terriers. She is a wedding photographer based in Portland, OR specializing in capturing artistic portraits paired with unique storytelling moments to produce natural, emotional wedding photography.