VERMONT ELOPEMENT GUIDE
THE ULTIMATE GUIDE FOR ELOPING IN VERMONT STATE
How to elope in Vermont, the most epic & adventurous locations, permit & weather information, and more!
Table of Contents:
How to elope in Vermont
Best time of year to plan your elopement in Vermont
Best Vermont elopement locations
Elopement permits + marriage laws
What to pack for your elopement
HOW TO ELOPE IN VERMONT
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 VERMONT
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.
WINTER
Eloping in Winter is such a pretty time. The region is covered in a blanket of snow for your vows. Vermont's natural scenery includes snowy mountains, waterfalls, forests, and frozen lakes perfect for your elopement.
SPRING
Eloping in Spring is full of blooming flowers, fresh growth on trees offering a gorgeous setting for your elopement.
SUMMER
Eloping in Summer is the perfect time full of green forests and mountains with wild flowers in full bloom.
BEST FORESTS TO ELOPE IN VERMONT
NEBRASKA NOTCH - LAKE MANSFIELD TRAIL
Nebraska Notch is 3.7 mile mountain pass hike located in the Green Mountains of Vermont and gives amazing views.
STERLING POND
This 2.1 mile hike features a high-elevation trout pond between Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak. With this location in particular I would recommend doing sunrise or sunset because it does get crowded!
SPRUCE PEAK VIA STERLING POND TRAIL
This 2.8 mile hike is the summit of Spruce Peak features amazing views of the surrounding Green Mountains, including Smuggler's Notch Resort.
MOSS GLEN FALLS
A beautiful waterfall near Stowe, Vermont.
BEST LAKES TO ELOPE IN VERMONT
Lake Willoughby is a stunning glacial lake located in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont, known for its crystal-clear waters and dramatic surroundings.
BEST STATE PARKS TO ELOPE IN VERMONT
MONROE TRAIL TO CAMEL'S HUMP
The Monroe Trail offers a scenic hike through the diverse landscapes of Camel's Hump State Park. Further along, the trail becomes steeper and rockier, leading to more open terrain as you approach the summit. The final stretch before reaching the top of Camel's Hump features rugged, alpine scenery with exposed rock ledges and stunted vegetation. From here, the views open up dramatically, providing stunning panoramas of the Green Mountains, Lake Champlain, and the distant Adirondacks.
BURROW'S TRAIL TO CAMEL'S HUMP
The Burrows Trail is a popular route up Camel's Hump, offering a scenic hike through Vermont's beautiful forests. Near the summit, the trees thin out, revealing a more rugged, alpine landscape with exposed rock ledges and low-lying vegetation. The final approach to the summit provides stunning, panoramic views of the Green Mountains, the Champlain Valley, and on clear days, the Adirondacks to the west and the White Mountains to the east.
FOREST CITY TRAIL
The Forest City Trail in Vermont offers a serene and varied hiking experience as it winds through the lower slopes of Camel's Hump. This trail winds through lush forests and offers a more gradual ascent to Camel's Hump, connecting with the Long Trail.
APPALACHIAN GAP TO WARMING HUT
The hike from Appalachian Gap to the Warming Hut is a scenic and rewarding journey along Vermont's Long Trail, offering stunning views and varied terrain.
WHAT YOU'LL NEED TO ELOPE IN VERMONT:
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 $80 fee and you're all set! The license is valid for 60 days.
CHOOSE A LOCATION
Vermont has numerous state parks, each offering 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
Check Permit Requirements: Some parks may require a special use permit for elopement ceremonies, especially if you have guests or plan to set up decorations. The permit fee varies by park.
Reservation: If you plan to use a pavilion, overlook, or another specific area within the park, you may need to reserve that space in advance.
Here is the page for Vermont state park wedding information
OFFICIANT
Who Can Officiate: In Vermont, an ordained minister, justice of the peace, judge, or a one-day temporary officiant (approved by the state) can legally perform your marriage ceremony. Ensure your chosen officiant is available and authorized.
IF YOU PLAN TO HIKE FOR YOUR ELOPEMENT YOU MIGHT NEED:
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A DOWNLOADED MAP
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A DAY PACK
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FIRST AID KIT
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EXTRA LAYERS
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POCKET KNIFE, FIRE STARTER + COMPASS
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SUNGLASSES
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EXTRA SNACKS
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BATTERIES
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HEADLAMP