The Best Places to Get Married in Alaska for Adventurous Couples

If you’re dreaming of a wedding day that feels more like an unforgettable adventure than a traditional ceremony, Alaska might just be your perfect match. With wild landscapes, moody skies, and scenery that stops you in your tracks, this place has a way of making your love story feel larger than life.

As an Alaska wedding photographer, I’ve explored a lot of jaw-dropping spots. Some are perfect for couples bringing a few guests, others are made for intimate elopements in the wild. So whether you’re hiking to a mountaintop or saying “I do” in front of a glacier, here are the best places to get married in Alaska—all based on real experiences with real couples.

1. Hatcher Pass

Golden tundra hills, alpine lakes, and endless mountain views—Hatcher Pass is a dream. It’s one of my favorite spots for both elopements and intimate weddings, and it’s super accessible from Anchorage or Palmer.

Why I love it: It changes with the seasons—green and lush in summer, golden in fall, snowy and magical in winter.

Best for: Couples who want mountain vibes without needing to hike far.

 

 

2. Matanuska Glacier

You want a wedding that literally takes your breath away? This is it. Matanuska Glacier is a giant sheet of blue-and-white ice, surrounded by rugged peaks. You can walk on it, fly over it, or say your vows right at the edge.

Why I love it: It feels like you’re on another planet—and the photos are next-level.

Best for: Elopements, helicopter ceremonies, or couples who want a one-of-a-kind experience.

3. Girdwood & Alyeska Resort

This cozy mountain town gives you the best of both worlds: wild Alaskan beauty and luxurious comfort. With the tram at Alyeska Resort, you can ride to the top of a mountain for your ceremony, then head back down for a reception with your guests.

Why I love it: It’s great for couples with guests who want adventure and amenities.

Best for: Weddings with a mix of adventure and elegance.

4. Knik River Valley

Tucked between glacier-fed rivers and dramatic peaks, Knik River is quiet, wild, and totally underrated. The light out here is chef’s kiss—especially at sunset.

Why I love it: It feels remote but is still close enough to Anchorage to be convenient.

Best for: Small weddings or elopements with a wilderness feel.

5. Homer & Kachemak Bay

Coastal cliffs, pebbled beaches, and misty ocean views—Homer is such a magical place. You can even take a water taxi across the bay to say your vows near a glacier or in a secluded forest.

Why I love it: It’s peaceful, creative, and feels like a tiny artist town at the edge of the world.

Best for: Couples who want ocean views, beachy vibes, and something off the beaten path.

6. Denali National Park

There’s something deeply humbling about standing near Denali, the tallest mountain in North America. The views are vast, the silence is grounding, and the experience is unforgettable.

Why I love it: It’s for the bold. For couples who want to truly feel the wildness of Alaska.

Best for: Elopements and micro-weddings with flexible timelines (the weather here plays by its own rules).

7. Turnagain Arm

If you’re staying near Anchorage and want epic views without going too far, Turnagain Arm is full of hidden gems. Think cliffs, water, mountains, and wildlife—all along a single stretch of road.

Why I love it: It’s easy to get to but still delivers on the drama.

Best for: Elopements, last-minute changes, or golden hour portraits.

 

So… How Do You Choose the Right Spot?

There’s no “best” location for everyone—but there is a best-for-you. Think about:

•How adventurous you want your day to feel

•How many people you’re bringing (if any)

•Whether you’re down to fly, hike, or just soak it all in

And if you’re not sure where to start? That’s where I come in. I help couples figure out what location fits their vibe, their vision, and their level of adventure—and then I help bring it to life through photography and planning support.

Let’s Make Magic in the Wild (and With the Right Team)

No matter where you choose, getting married in Alaska is an unforgettable experience—and having the right team beside you makes it even better. Once you’ve found your dream location, the next step is building a vendor team that knows how to work with the elements, the light, and the landscape.

Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of working with some incredible local vendors who truly bring the day to life—whether it’s florists who design with Alaska’s wild beauty in mind, planners who know every hidden gem, or helicopter teams that get you to the top of a glacier safely and in style.

Want to know who I trust and love working with?

Check out my favorite Alaska wedding vendors here. 

And if you’re ready to start planning your wedding or elopement in Alaska, I’d love to help you find the perfect location and the right team to bring your vision to life.

Let’s chat about your wedding plans.