If you’re dreaming of eloping in Shenandoah National Park, you’re in for some seriously stunning scenery. Whether you’re looking for sweeping mountain vistas, cascading waterfalls, or quiet forested hideaways, Shenandoah has the perfect spot to say your vows. As someone who knows the park inside and out, I’m here to help you find the best locations that fit your vision. Here’s a rundown of some of my favorite places for your Shenandoah elopement!

Best Shenandoah Elopement Locations:

• Blackrock Summit
• Jewell Hollow
• Hazel Mountain
• Big Meadows
• The Point Overlook
• Baldface Mountain Overlook
• South River
• Rose River Falls
• The Range View Overlook
• Stony Man Summit
• Skyline Drive

Blackrock Summit

Blackrock Summit is an easy, 1-mile roundtrip hike with one of the most unique views in the park. The rocky terrain at the summit creates an epic, almost otherworldly backdrop for your elopement photos. Since the hike is short and not too strenuous, it’s a great option if you want those mountain views without the long trek.

Planning tip: Aim for sunset or sunrise for the best lighting and fewer crowds!

Jewell Hollow

For couples who want a stunning view without hiking, Jewell Hollow Overlook is a top choice. On a clear day, this roadside overlook gives you a panoramic view of the mountains, making it a perfect spot for anintimate ceremony. If you’re eloping at sunrise or sunset, the changing colors in the sky here are breathtaking. Plus, it’s easy to access, which makes it great if you have guests who may not be up for a hike.

Hazel Mountain

Hazel Mountain is a more secluded option, offering peaceful wooded trails and an intimate atmosphere. The hike is moderate, with a bit of an incline, but the quiet, lush forest makes it feel like you have the whole place to yourselves. If you want a setting that feels wild and untouched, this is a great choice. This spot can get quite busy during summer and fall, but eloping on a weekday, especially during sunrise should give you much more privacy!

Big Meadows

Big Meadows is a favorite for couples who want that open, golden-field vibe. The wide-open spaces and rolling grasses make for some seriously dreamy, romantic photos. The best part? It’s super easy to access—very little hiking required. If you elope here in the late afternoon or early evening, the golden hour glow is unreal. And the wildflowers during summertime are unreal! Just be aware that since this is a popular area in the park, you might see some other visitors, but there’s plenty of space to find a quiet spot just for you.

The Point Overlook

The Point Overlook is one of the most breathtaking overlooks along Skyline Drive. With its west-facing view, it’s one of the best places in the park to catch a sunset. If you’re envisioning a mountaintop ceremony with the sun dipping below the horizon as you exchange vows, this is the spot. Since it’s right off the road, it’s perfect for a quick and easy elopement, with no hiking involved.

However, this spot can get reallllly crowded during the sunsets, so I’d recommend choosing a sunrise elopement instead or coming here for your portraits and not the ceremony, to get more privacy.

Baldface Mountain Overlook

Another stunning roadside spot, Baldface Mountain Overlook gives you those classic Blue Ridge views without having to hike. The overlook is less crowded than some of the more well-known stops along Skyline Drive, making it a great option for a quiet, intimate elopement. Plus, if you’re planning a sunrise ceremony, this is a beautiful place to watch the first light of the day spill over the mountains. It’s also a good option if you’re planning to bring a few guests along, as it is nice and spacious, too!

South River

South River overlook is a beautiful spot for your elopement with mountain and meadow views. It is particularly gorgeous during the wildflower season. It’s also close to the South River Picnic Area, so this is a nice spot for your post-elopement celebration!

If you’re after a slightly longer hike and want to experience lush forest vibes and waterfall views for your elopement, South River Falls could be for you! South River Falls features an 83-foot high waterfall, accessible via a 4.3-mile loop trail, but heads up – this hike is not for the faint of heart.

Rose River Falls

If you’re a waterfall lover, Rose River Falls is an absolute dream. The trail is almost 4 miles round trip, winding through serene forests before reaching the stunning falls. The cascading water creates a romantic, fairy tale-like setting for your vows. It’s a bit more of a hike, but if you’re up for it, the reward is well worth it. Since the area is more shaded, it’s especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves change colors.

The Range View Overlook

Range View Overlook is another easy-access spot along Skyline Drive that offers expansive mountain views. It’s one of the best places to elope if you want a wide, open view of the ridges stretching into the distance. Since it’s not as crowded as some of the other overlooks, it’s a great choice for a private, intimate ceremony with a jaw-dropping backdrop. Added bonus, the parking lot is quite large here!

Stony Man Summit

Stony Man is one of the most popular hikes in Shenandoah, and for good reason. The 1.5-mile round trip hike leads you to one of the most stunning panoramic views in the park. It’s a relatively easy trail, making it accessible for most couples. Since it’s a VERY popular spot, sunrise or weekday elopements are your best bet for some privacy, but during peak-season you’re still likely to run into some people.

Skyline Drive

If you’re having trouble choosing just one spot, why not make a day of it and explore multiple locations along Skyline Drive? This scenic road runs through the park and is lined with 69 different and breathtaking overlooks, making it perfect for a road-trip-style elopement. You can say your vows at one overlook, take portraits at another, and celebrate with a picnic in one of many designated picnic areas. The options are endless!

Shenandoah Elopement Permits

So as you’re choosing your Shenandoah elopement location, you might be wondering whether or not you need a special use permit. Lucky for you, for ceremonies of 15 people or fewer and if you’re not using any props, decor, music, or equipment you WILL NOT need an elopement permit.

However, if your ceremony involves more than 15 participants or any form of setup, you must obtain a special use permit from the park. It’s advisable to apply for this permit at least 30 to 60 days before your planned date. 

If your guest list climbs above 30 people, you’ll need to reserve one of the park’s four designated amphitheaters. These are larger spaces that can accommodate a more “traditional” wedding setup. You can learn more about the permits and regulations here!

Please note that you might experience delays in getting your permits due to recent staffing loss at the National Parks across the country.

Let’s Plan Your Shenandoah National Park Elopement Together!

And if you’d like to get more tips to help you plan your elopement here, check out my blog: How to Elope in Shenandoah National Park to learn more about the permits, best season to elope here, fun activities and more!