How to Elope in Acadia National Park
Eloping in Acadia National Park is not hard, however there are some things you need to know before eloping in the park.
As an Acadia National Park elopement photographer, I’m here to help you plan a day that’s just as adventurous (or laid-back) as you are. My Goal? Making this elopement easy, stress-free, and 100% you two. Let’s go over the basics of How to Elope in Acadia National Park:
Step 1: The best time of year to elope in Acadia
Every Season is different. Here’s a super quick rundown on when to elope in Acadia according to season:
- Spring (April–May): Budding trees, quiet trails, a bit moody. Weather can be unpredictable but dreamy for foggy coastal vibes.
- Sunrise elopements start early (4:30am meeting time), but totally worth it!
- Spring is a slower time for the Park and Bar Harbor: More options for cool places to stay, but a lot of businesses are still closed/ off season hours.
- Summer (June–August): Sunrise ceremonies, longer hiking days, busy park. Perfect for bike rides, boat tours, and barefoot coastal portraits.
- Early June is the best time to experience summer elopements, before kids are out of school and families start coming to the area for their summer vacations. Week days are the best time to visit the park.
- Summer is also the best time to schedule couples adventure sessions (swimming, boating and kayaking)
- Fall (September–October): Foliage fire. Peak season for photographers (aka: book early). Crisp air, cozy outfits, and golden light.
- My Favorite: Sunrise Elopements take place at 6:30am instead of summer hours, and Fall sunsets are gorgeous.
- The fall foliage brings in millions of tourists to the park every year – although busy, we work on when is it best to elope and be in the park on your wedding day.
- It is the busiest time of year for Maine Tourism and small businesses in Bar Harbor – reserve your stay early in the year to lock down the experience.
- Winter (November–March): Solitude and snow. Great if you want quiet coastlines and don’t mind a little chill.
- Plan to bring winter clothing and equipment (snow shoes, ice spikes, hand warmers, etc.)
- Bar Harbor businesses start to close down in November for off season hours – know who is open for those romantic dinners and late night adventures into town for ice cream.
- More options for those who want to book fun air bnb or hotels.
- If driving, make sure you have a car with all-wheel or 4WD.
☀️ Pro Tip: Sunrise shoots are chef’s kiss here. The light is soft, the park is peaceful, and you’ll feel like you’ve got the place to yourselves.
My hot tip: Skip Cadillac Mountain — it’s stunning, but often fogged in at dawn and can be super over crowded during peak months.
Step 2: Acadia National Park Wedding Permits – Do you need one for your elopement?
Acadia does have rules for ceremonies in the park:
- If your group is more than 10 people (that includes you two, your officiant, guests, and any vendors physically present), you’ll likely need a Special Use Permit for your ceremony. National Park Service+1
- Smaller elopements (under 10) in low-impact areas often don’t need a permit—but we always double-check the current NPS guidelines, because regulations and fees change. National Park Service+1
You’ll typically:
- Choose a ceremony location + approximate time.
- Complete the park’s Special Use Permit application.
- Submit it with the current application fee by the recommended deadline (the park suggests at least 10 working days before, more in busy seasons). National Park Service+1
When we work together, I’ll send you direct links, reminders, and a little “hey, let’s get this in!” nudge so you’re never guessing.
📌 Permits for Acadia Elopements
Step 3: How to get Married In Maine (How to get a Maine Marriage License)
Good news: Maine keeps things pretty simple. The best news? I help my couples check off your to-do list “Book an Officiant” – since I am a licenced officiant and can submit your paperwork after your elopement.
Where to Apply for your Maine Marriage Licence:
- Maine residents: Apply for your marriage license in the town or city where you live. Maine.gov+1
- Out-of-state couples: You can apply in any Maine town or city, and it’s valid anywhere in the state—including Acadia. barharbormaine.gov+1
Timing
- Once issued, your marriage license is valid for 90 days. Plan to apply within that window before your elopement. Maine.gov+1
- There’s no waiting period once your intentions are filed—the license can often be issued the same day, depending on the town office hours. Real Maine Weddings
What You’ll Need for your Maine Marriage License
Exact requirements can vary slightly by town, but generally you’ll bring: Maine.gov+2DocDraft+2
- A government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.)
- Social Security numbers
- Certified copies of divorce decrees or death certificates if either of you has been married before
- The license fee (usually around $40)
Bonus Tip: Who Needs to Be There for your Elopement
For your ceremony in Maine, you’ll need:
- An officiant authorized to perform marriages in the state (I’ve got your back on this).
- Two witnesses to sign your license in black ink (don’t worry if you didn’t bring guests – other park visitors are always game to help).
Want to keep the ceremony ultra-minimal? We go through what your ceremony can feel like during your time in acadia, without it feeling super traditional or over the top.
TL;DR: What You’ll Need
- 📅 A date + time (sunrise or sunset is 🔥)
- 📍 A ceremony location + permit
- 📸 An experienced photographer (hi!)
- 🎉 Local vendors who vibe with your style
- 💍 A marriage license + officiant
- ✨ An open heart and a sense of adventure
Let’s Make This Elopement Wildly You
I believe elopements are for people who want to feel every moment. Totally you? I can’t wait to see what we create together!
📩 [Reach out here] to start planning your Acadia elopement
📷 Or dive deeper into the adventure with these blogs:
→ [Best Time to Elope in Acadia]
→ [What to Do During Your Acadia Elopement Weekend]
