A while back I wrote a blog listing my 12 Best Elopement Locations in the U.S. and one of the first places that I was most excited about was the Sawtooth Mountains in Idaho. And that got me thinking about the specific spots within The Gem State that would be stunning eloping locations. So I’m here to share all you need to know to elope in Idaho.

As usual, let’s start with the basics. First up, marriage licenses in Idaho.

Marriage licenses in Idaho are issued in person by County Recorders and in some counties, you’ll need to make an appointment ahead of time. You both have to appear together at the county office and bring money for the fee, which varies by county. And because Idaho is one of those lucky states with no waiting period for a marriage license, you can get married on the same day if you choose to. One last thing to keep in mind is that while the license doesn’t have an expiration date if it’s not used within the year you’ll have to contact the Idaho Bureau of Vital Records and Health Statistics.

But once you have your marriage license, who can officiate your elopement ceremony?

So a wedding officiant in Idaho covers the usual. (The judges, commissioners, and any regularly licensed or ordained minister or similar official of any religious organization.) Or you can have a loved one become ordained online! It’s a very simple process and fully recognized by the state. And another big plus is that wedding officiants in Idaho are not required to register with any government office before performing the marriage.

Permits, as usual, will vary by location within Idaho.

This takes us into the most exciting part of the “How to elope in Idaho” blog, the locations!

So why chose Idaho to elope in?

Well, Idaho is breathtaking. It’s known for its mountainous landscapes and vast areas of protected wilderness.

Let’s go over the National Parks first! Idaho boasts six wonderful National Park and an outstanding 27 state parks that show off Idaho’s natural beauty. While we won’t go into all of the 27 state parks because of how many there are, I did want to go over some of my favorite National Parks as well as some honorable mentions.

City of Rocks National Reserve.

This park is also known as the Silent City of Rocks. (Doesn’t that just sound romantic?!) It’s only about 2 miles north of the Utah border. And it’s known for its enormous granite rock formations and excellent rock climbing. Perfect for the adventurous couples out there. What about permits? To be sure of whether you need a special use permit or not contact the Park Superintendent at (208) 824-5911.

Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve.

This is a U.S. national monument and national preserve in the Snake River Plain in central Idaho. It gets its unique name thanks to the local legends referencing the landscape resembling the surface of the moon. A big plus is that the park is huge! (Roughly the size of Rhode Island.) Meaning that there are so many cool spots to explore and stunning landscapes to capture your photos. As far as permits go you might need a couple of different ones depending on how you envision your day! For example, if you dream of exploring one of the five caves within the park, you’ll need a cave permit, which is free. And if you have a large party coming with you for your elopement, you’ll need to apply for a special use permit.

Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument.

This is a very interesting location and a lovely park to keep in mind! Located near Hagerman, Idaho, this park contains the largest concentration of Hagerman Horse fossils in North America. The fossil horses for which the monument is famous have been found in only one locale in the northern portion of the monument called the Hagerman Horse Quarry. There is no fee to enter the park or the visitor center, and it’s made for those with a love for history. To find out information about any special use permits, contact the park at (208) 933-4105.

And the star of the show: Yellowstone National Park.

Yellowstone covers three states: Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. Yellowstone has dramatic canyons, rivers, forests, hot springs, and gushing geysers. (Including its most famous, Old Faithful.) There are also hundreds of animal species to admire from a distance. (Including bears, wolves, bison, elk, and antelope.) To elope in this Idaho location you’ll need two things. A Special Use Permit from the Park and a Marriage License from a neighboring county. The permit will cost you $250 and you have to apply for it at least two weeks before your ceremony date.

How about elopement locations outside of the parks?

I have a few suggestions!

Sandpoint, Idaho.

Sandpoint is a city in northern Idaho, situated on Lake Pend Oreille. It is the largest lake in Idaho and a true jaw-dropping elopement location. I find the beauty in this location screams “dream elopement location”. It’s the perfect combination of adventure and serenity.

Sun Valley, Idaho.

If you’re looking for a resort town, look no further than Sun Valley. It’s especially special in the summer because you can explore the resort’s miles of mountain trails, equestrian routes, and wildflower-filled meadows. This is also a beautiful option for those that want more of a “destination wedding” vibe instead of a private elopement. There are lovely outdoor spots to say your “I do’s” with your loved ones present. Plus the resort offers plenty to do to keep everyone busy!

Owyhees, Idaho.

This is for the privacy seekers. You see, Owyhees got its nickname by local ranchers as the “Big Quiet,” and it is still the most remote, undeveloped region in the lower 48 states. Explore the rugged mountains, the waterfalls, the rivers, and more while enjoying the peace and serenity. I find that it allows couples to take in the moment and the symbolism of their elopement day.

And Priest Lake, Idaho.

Priest Lake is home to some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes. And because of this, it has plenty of outdoor activities to keep your adventure-hungry soul content. Plus it is open year-round so you there is no limit to planning your elopement at a certain time of year and there is lodging available right on the lake. Meaning you have one less thing to worry about. (Two if you count traffic!)