How To Elope in Acadia National Park

The park is open for the season from May 6th- October 31st and closed from November 1st- May 5th. With summer being Acadia’s busiest season and usually a popular time for weddings and elopements, this means a bit more planning may be required. Things to consider are, parking arrangements prior to getting to the park, permit availability, as sometimes during the busier (holiday) weekends permits for weddings can be harder to come by. It is key to plan for larger crowds during this time of year and allow plenty of time for the ceremony, activities, and photos. During the summer there is so much to do in the park. Picnics, hiking, birdwatching, simming, kayaking, biking- the list goes on! There are tons of hotels around the area and even some of the coolest Airbnbs to rent to ensure you and your guests have accommodations during your stay.

Fall can be one of the most beautiful seasons in Acadia National Park as it is the time where the leaves start changing and the weather is cooled down just enough for a perfect condition. There is a higher chance of precipitation during the fall season but that is something that would just require some extra planning and the need to become prepared for any type of weather.

I encourage couples to either head out for their ceremony a few hours prior to sunset or if any of the (very) adventurous couples are up for it getting out for a sunrise ceremony and photoshoot. During those times is where you truly get the most beautiful golden photos.

Important Park Information

Park Fee: $35/ private care

Park Permits: If you are planning on having a group of 10 + more attending your elopement ceremony in Acadia National Park, you will be required to obtain a park permit. You can find more info on this on the NPS website. If your gathering is anything less than 10 people, no park permit is needed. Park permits are available upon request. They must be submitted 10 days prior to the ceremony. You’ll need to complete the wedding application with as much information as possible and include a non-refundable $50 deposit in money order or check.

Elope in Acadia, Symbolically

Reminder that this is YOUR day. I encourage every couple to sit down and envision what their perfect wedding day looks like to them. This is something you remember forever, so think hard about what you want your perfect day to look like.

There is always the opportunity for couples to have a symbolic wedding ceremony. This allows couples to go to their local courthouse or town hall and be married without officiants, witnesses, and certain state marriage licenses that may be required for elopements at Acadia. Then plan to go to Acadia for sharing personal vows, epic photos, and amazing adventures together to celebrate! This can be a bit easier for couples who may be coming from out of state.

If you do choose to have a ceremony within the park there are some requirements to keep in mind.

Legally Eloping at the Park

First up – officiants. Below you’ll find a list of acceptable officiants to have perform your elopement ceremony:

• Ordained ministers of the gospel
• A person licensed to preach by an association of ministers, religious seminary or ecclesiastical body Judges or justices (residents of Maine only)
• Lawyers admitted to the Maine Bar (residents of Maine only)
• Maine Notaries

Additionally, you’ll need two other witnesses there in order to sign the marriage license.

Something that you may not have known but something to consider before eloping in Acadia National Park is the requirement for a Maine marriage license. Whether you’re an in-state resident already or traveling to Maine for your big day, you’ll need to contact the Maine town office. If you’re already a resident you’ll need to reach out to the town office where you and your beau reside. Read more here! Only a requirement if you’re not planning on having a symbolic ceremony. Other Regulations can be found on the NPS site.

What are you waiting for? Let’s Elope in Acadia!

If you’re looking to tie the knot in one of the most unique and picturesque locations in the US take a look at what Acadia National Park has to offer. Let’s make some memories and adventure to this amazing place and celebrate your love and happiness. I strive to offer an experience unlike many others in that I create a true authentic and genuine experience for everyone. I make the experience about you and your boo, capturing the real and raw emotions throughout the entire day so you have something to look back at and cherish forever.

xo, kailee rose