Underrated Idaho Elopement Locations Every Couple Should Know in 2026
Tucked in the northwest corner of the United States, touched by the Rocky Mountains and filled with diverse and dramatic terrain, is the beautiful Gem State of Idaho. Idaho is one of the most underrated places to elope, and it offers some of the most scenic elopement locations in the country.
I’m Olivia.
As an Idaho based elopement photographer and Idaho native, I have explored many locations that are truly breathtaking for an intimate Idaho elopement, and I love helping couples find the perfect place to say their vows.
Here I will cover some iconic and underrated Idaho locations for the perfect Idaho elopement. As an Idaho elopement photographer, I am always paying attention to what works best for couples who choose to elope in this beautiful state.
Let’s get started with some of the most breathtaking Idaho elopement locations to help you find the perfect place to say your vows.
Priest Lake, Idaho
Starting at the panhandle of Idaho is Priest Lake. This beautiful lake is located just 30 miles from the Canadian border and offers a wide variety of stunning views along its shoreline. On the eastern side of the lake, you will find Priest Lake State Park, which is full of hiking trails, forested paths, and peaceful beaches that are open for anyone to explore. Priest Lake is one of the most scenic and serene locations for an Idaho elopement, especially for couples who want a quiet and nature filled setting.
One of the many beaches on Priest Lake is Ledgewood Beach, located on the south side of the lake. This picnic area includes a convenient parking area, picnic tables, and a sandy shoreline that is perfect for couple’s portraits by the water, with a view of the iconic Priest Lake feature, Chimney Rock.
If you walk farther down the beach, you will find a rocky hill with stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains, creating a beautiful setting for exchanging vows. Ledgewood Beach is a peaceful and scenic spot for couples considering a Priest Lake elopement, with easy access and minimal hiking.
Sandpoint, Idaho
Moving east, you’ll find the beautiful and expansive Lake Pend Oreille. This lake is a staple of the Idaho Panhandle, and at its edge, nestled at the base of the Selkirk Mountains is the charming city of Sandpoint. While Sandpoint is most popular for skiing in the winter, it also makes a perfect elopement location year-round, offering stunning lake views, mountain backdrops, and plenty of scenic spots for an Idaho elopement.
If you’re drawn to an alpine feel, Schweitzer Mountain is an ideal choice. This iconic ski mountain offers some of the most breathtaking views of Lake Pend Oreille below. Before reaching the ski village, you’ll find numerous hiking trails with scenic vistas, creating the perfect backdrop for saying “I do” during your Idaho elopement.
Driving further up the mountain brings you to Schweitzer Village, which is home to restaurants, shops, and plenty of activities to celebrate your special day. You can grab a drink at Pucci’s Pub or have your first dance in front of the iconic clock tower at the center of the village. Schweitzer Village adds a charming and lively element to any Idaho elopement, combining alpine beauty with festive spots for you to enjoy as a newly eloped couple.
Farragut State Park
The last location we’ll cover is just across the lake from Sandpoint. Farragut State Park reveals a completely different perspective of the surrounding mountains. With its rich history and stunning natural sights, there is no shortage of beautiful spots to elope within this state park. Farragut State Park is a fantastic option for couples looking for a scenic and memorable Idaho elopement location.
There are truly so many places to explore within Farragut State Park. Pick a trailhead and you could find yourself looking down at the lake or walking along its rocky shoreline. One spot is the easy dead-end drive to MacDonald Viewpoint. You don’t even need to leave your car to take in one of the most expansive views of the mountain range surrounding the park.
Just below the parking area, you’ll find a perfect overlook to exchange vows while soaking in the breathtaking scenery. Backtracking just a little brings you to the Sunrise Day-Use area. Here, you’ll find an open field and paved paths that are perfect for a leisurely walk to some beautiful viewpoints. At the left end of the area, next to the Willow rentable cabins, is a trailhead that can take you either to another overlook or directly down to the rocky shoreline.
No matter what you envision for your special day, Farragut State Park offers a variety of options to create the perfect Idaho elopement.
Permit Info
Permit requirements can vary depending on where you choose to elope in Idaho. This may involve contacting state park offices to learn about their specific regulations for elopements or checking with Airbnb owners about their guidelines. As your Idaho elopement photographer and planner, I can help you gather all the information you need to make your elopement stress-free, seamless, and unforgettable.
These are just a few of the many underrated locations you can find in Idaho for your Idaho elopement. These tried and true spots are sure to provide the perfect backdrop for your “I do.”
Looking for even more location ideas? I’ve got you covered! As an Idaho elopement photographer, it is my job to discover stunning locations that are the perfect setting for your special day. Together, we can collaborate to create something truly beautiful while keeping your Idaho elopement stress-free and unforgettable.
Let me help you plan the Idaho elopement of your DREAMS.
Head to my contact page and let’s make your elopement day completely about you!