How to Elope in Idaho: The Ultimate Easy Guide
Thinking About Eloping in Idaho? Here’s How to Make It Easy & Stress-Free!
If you’re dreaming of an intimate, adventure-filled wedding day, eloping in Idaho might be the perfect choice! With its breathtaking mountain landscapes, hidden waterfalls, and relaxed marriage laws, Idaho is an ideal place for couples looking to skip the stress of a traditional wedding.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to elope in Idaho—from choosing the best location to getting your marriage license and planning the perfect day.
Why eloping might
be for you!
If the idea of a big, traditional wedding feels overwhelming, eloping might be the perfect way to say “I do.” Eloping allows you to focus on what truly matters—your love, your connection, and an unforgettable experience together. Whether you crave a stress-free day, dream of exchanging vows in a breathtaking location, or simply want an intimate celebration without the pressure of a large guest list, eloping gives you the freedom to create a wedding day that feels authentic, adventurous, and uniquely yours.
Choose Your Dream Idaho Elopement Location
One of the best things about eloping in Idaho is the variety of stunning locations to choose from! Whether you want a mountain backdrop, a lakeside ceremony, or a secluded forest escape, there’s a perfect spot for your special day.
Best Places to Elope in Idaho:
Sawtooth Mountains - One of the most breathtaking mountain ranges in the U.S., perfect for adventurous couples.
Shoshone Falls - Known as the “Niagara of the West,” this waterfall provides an epic, romantic setting.
Sun Valley - A charming ski town with gorgeous views and year-round beauty.
Coeur d’Alene - A picturesque lakeside city known for its stunning natural scenery, outdoor recreation, and vibrant downtown.
Priest Lake - Pristine mountain lake known for its crystal-clear waters, dense forests, and peaceful, remote atmosphere.
McCall - This charming mountain town known for its scenic Payette Lake, outdoor recreation in the summer, and vibrant winter sports scene.
Craters of the Moon National Monument - A unique volcanic landscape featuring vast lava fields, rugged caves, and otherworldly terrain.
Salmon River - Known as the “River of No Return,” is a wild and scenic river famous for its rugged canyons, whitewater rapids, and pristine wilderness.Stanley & Redfish Lake - Quiet, peaceful, and surrounded by stunning alpine scenery.
Boise Foothills - If you want something close to the city but still surrounded by nature.
Pro Tip: Consider the season and accessibility of your location. Some areas may be harder to reach in winter, while fall and summer offer amazing weather!
Getting Your Idaho
Marriage License
Idaho makes the legal side of eloping super easy! Here’s what you need to know:
Where to apply: Any Idaho county clerk’s office
Ada County: https://apps.adacounty.id.gov/ClerkAuditorRecorder/marriage
Canyon County: https://rec-search.canyoncounty.id.gov/Marriage/Home.aspx
Waiting period: None! Your marriage license is valid immediately.
Expiration: No expiration—so no rush if you get it early!
Cost: Typically between $30–$60 (some counties require cash).
What to bring: A valid photo ID for both partners and your social security numbers.
Do you need witnesses?: No witnesses are required in Idaho, however if you would like a couple of your favorite people to sign as a witness they are welcome to!
Who can officiate?: A judge, ordained minister, or even a friend who gets ordained online.
Pro Tip: If you’re traveling from out of state, consider arriving a day early to get your marriage license hassle-free.
Plan the Details of your Elopement
Once you have your location and marriage license, it’s time to plan the details that will make your elopement unforgettable!
Photography & Vendors
Hiring an elopement photographer ensures your special day is beautifully documented. Look for someone who knows the area well!
Consider a local officiant or have a friend become ordained.
If you want a bouquet, hair & makeup, or a small cake, check out local vendors who specialize in elopements.
Best Time of Day to Elope
Sunrise: Soft lighting, fewer crowds, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Sunset: Golden-hour glow for dreamy, romantic photos.
What to Wear for Your Idaho Elopement
For your wedding attire, I recommend wearing what you feel the most you in!
If your elopement locations requires a little hike I’d recommend wearing comfortable, weather-appropriate attire, and your hiking boots or sturdy shoes for mountain locations.
Bring your wedding attire with you to change once you’ve arrived, or wear your attire and hiking shoes on the way up!
For locations that don’t require a longer hike but maybe a small walk I recommend wearing your wedding attire and maybe some comfy to shoes to walk to different spots in if the terrain in a little rough.
Pro Tip: If you’re hiking to your elopement spot, bring a backpack with water, snacks, and an extra jacket!
Making your Elopement Special & Stress-Free
Eloping is about creating a day that truly reflects your love story. Here are some ideas to make your Idaho elopement even more special:
Incorporate an adventure - Go for a scenic hike, soak in natural hot springs, or explore a hidden canyon together.
Write personal vows - Make your ceremony feel more intimate and meaningful.
Stay in a cozy Airbnb or cabin - Idaho has tons of beautiful stays that can double as a honeymoon spot.
Celebrate after! - Enjoy a private dinner, toast with champagne, or even have a picnic under the stars.
Incorporate family & friends - Have a little celebration with your closest family and friend after you’ve said “I DO!”
Final Checklist: Your Idaho Elopement To-Do List
✔ Pick a date & choose your location
✔ Apply for your Idaho marriage license
✔ Find an officiant
✔ Hire an elopement photographer (like me! 😉)
✔ Plan your timeline & pack accordingly
✔ Enjoy your epic elopement day!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do we need a permit for our elopement in some Idaho locations?
Yes, there are some locations in Idaho that are managed by Fish & Game or Parks & Recreation that might require a “special use permit”, however this is not that case for all Idaho locations. Once you’ve narrowed down your elopement location I would look into the permit requirements by reaching out to local fish & game.
If we are traveling in from out-of-state do we need to get an Idaho marriage license, or can we get one from our home state before we travel Idaho for our elopement?
When eloping in another state, typically you’ll need to obtain a marriage license in the state where the wedding is taking place, not your home state. Marriage licenses are issued by the state where the ceremony occurs, and each state has its own requirements for obtaining one. After the wedding, you usually file the license in the same state where it was issued to receive your official marriage certificate.
Do we have to schedule an appointment to get our marriage license?
No. You can go down anytime to pick up your marriage license before your ceremony date or even right before your ceremony. Check the courthouse hours before heading in to pick yours up!
Can we have our entire day documented?
Yes absolutely! If you are wanting to get ready at your stay, private vows, have the ceremony by a lake, then a little reception back at your stay or a restaurant between the two of you or with a few friends & family, we can 100% capture your whole day!
Can our fur babies be apart of our day?
Absolutely! In fact I encourage it! Bring them and make them apart of the celebration!
Can you help us pick out photo locations if we choose a location we have never been before?
Yes! I include personal location scouting as a part of all my elopement packages to narrow down the best locations for your elopement before we even begin the day.
Ready to Elope in Idaho? Let’s Make It Happen!
Eloping should be simple, meaningful, and stress-free. If you’re ready to plan your dream elopement in Idaho, I’d love to capture your special day and help you every step of the way!
Hi there, I’m Taylor
Hey there I’m Taylor, but I also go by T! I’m a photographer based out of Idaho and the Pacific Northwest who specializes in capturing Elopements, Intimate (micro) weddings, couples, and portraits. Something I value tremendously about life is that we are living our own stories. Life is a constant wave of the high and lows, but also the now! No matter where we are in our timelines I believe it is so special to have your moments captured. Not only for the now, but for the later too! Nothing beats looking at photos from your life and getting that nostalgic feeling all over again.
No matter what you need captured from an elopement in the mountains to a fun carefree couples session, I am here to help plan your day and photograph all the moments as they come.