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UPSTATE NEW YORK ELOPEMENT GUIDE

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE FOR ELOPING IN NEW YORK STATE

How to elope in New York State, the most epic & adventurous locations, permit & weather information, and more!

Table of Contents:
How to elope in Upstate New York
Best time of year to plan your elopement in New York
Best Adirondack elopement locations
Elopement permits + marriage laws
What to pack for your elopement

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HOW TO ELOPE IN NEW YORK

1. Hire your photographer
2. Choose your location + time of year 
3. Apply for any permits
4. Get necessary accommodations and transportation
5. Get your marriage license 
6. Have the best day!

WHAT SEASON TO ELOPE IN UPSTATE NEW YORK

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FALL

Eloping in the Fall is a colorful experience as the state’s foliage appears in vibrant autumn, reds, golds and orange in the mountains.

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WINTER

Eloping in Winter is such a pretty time. The region is covered in a blanket of snow for your vows. New York's natural upstate scenery includes snowy mountains, forests, and frozen lakes perfect for your elopement.

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SPRING

Eloping in Spring is full of blooming flowers, fresh growth on trees offering a gorgeous setting for your elopement.

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SUMMER

Eloping in Summer is the perfect time full of green forests, majestic lakes, and stunning mountains with wild flowers in full bloom.

WHERE TO TO ELOPE IN ADIRONDACK PARK
- WILDERNESS -

CASCADE MOUNTAIN
This 4.5 mile trail is one of the most popular hike and is moderate to difficult but the views are worth it!

AMPERSAND MOUNTAIN TRAIL
This 5 mile hike is another somewhat challenging hike thats worth it for the views. This trail is known for its forest path and rocky summit that provides beautiful landscape views.

MOUNT VAN HOEVENBERG EAST TRAIL
This 3.2 mile hike is moderate to challenging and is a good warm up hike for longer trails int he Adirondacks.

MOUNT JO LOOP TRAIL
This is a short 2.4 mile loop hike that will bring you to the top of a beautiful peak above Heart Lake.

MARCY DAM TRAIL
This 4.3 mile hike leads to Marcy Dam and offers gorgeous views of the surrounding High Peaks. 

BLUEBERRY MOUNTAIN VIA MARCY FIELD
This 3.6 mile hike offers views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
 
LAKE COLDEN TO AVALANCHE LAKE
This 3 mile hike is an adventurous trail that takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the High Peaks area.

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WHERE TO TO ELOPE IN ADIRONDACK PARK
- WILD FOREST -

COBBLE LOOKOUT
This is a short and easy 2.4 mile hike. This trail is perfect if you don't want to do a ton of hiking for your elopement but still want gorgeous views! 

THE FLUME FALL
This 2.4 mile hike is a beautiful and secluded waterfall if you're looking for a private location for your elopement.

AUSABLE RIVER TRAIL
3.9
This 4 mile trail follows the Ausable River and is very accessible.

DRIVE UP TO THE SUMMIT OF WHITEFACE:
If you're not too into hiking but still want those gorgeous Adirondack views, drive up the Veteran's Memorial Highway. Venue pricing: $650 to $4,500 + guest admission prices ($10/person).

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BEST LAKES TO ELOPE AT IN UPSTATE NEW YORK

Permits: Depending on where you are wanting to elope around Lake George, you may need to get a permit, especially if you’re planning your ceremony in a public park or on the beach. Look here for recent info about permit requirements.

LAKE GEORGE WILD FOREST
PROSPECT MOUNTAIN LOOP
This is a 3 mile loop trail offering a combination that's somewhat hard with epic views for your elopement.

BOLTON LANDING
Bolton Landing is a view point on the western shore of Lake George. This location offers beautiful views of Lake George and is the best spot to say your vows.

SCHUMANN PRESERVE AT PILOT KNOB
This is a 3.8 mile trail with stunning view of Lake George from the overlook at the top. Once you reach the top you'll see views of the lake and mountains.

SHELVING ROCK MOUNTAIN TRAIL
This is a 3 mile trail that leads to an overlook with views of Lake George and surrounding mountains. 

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WHAT YOU'LL NEED TO ELOPE IN NEW YORK:

MARRIAGE LICENSE
To get married in Vermont you need to obtain a marriage license from a town clerk’s office. This can be done in any town, regardless of where you plan to marry in the state. Bring valid ID, fill out the necessary forms, and pay the $25 fee and you're all set! The license is valid for 60 days.

CHOOSE A LOCATION
Upstate New York's Adirondack Parks, offers unique scenic settings for an elopement. Choose a location that fits your vision, whether it's a mountaintop, lakeside, or forest setting.
Park Rules: Each park may have specific rules regarding ceremonies. Contact the park office or visit their website to understand any regulations, fees, or restrictions.

PERMITS
No prrermits are required to elope in Adirondack Park.

OFFICIANT
Who Can Officiate: In New York State Clergy members, Leaders of the Society of Ethical Culture, Mayor present and past) Federal, state, or local judges or justices, elected or appointed in the State of New York,
The Clerk of the Appellate Division of the First or Second Department and The County Clerk.
*New York requires one witness

IF YOU PLAN TO HIKE FOR YOUR ELOPEMENT YOU MIGHT NEED:

  • A DOWNLOADED MAP

  • A DAY PACK

  • FIRST AID KIT

  • EXTRA LAYERS

  • POCKET KNIFE, FIRE STARTER + COMPASS

  • SUNGLASSES

  • EXTRA SNACKS

  • BATTERIES

  • HEADLAMP​​​

ARE YOU READY TO TAKE THE NEXT STEPS?

Tell me all about your dream elopement day!

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