Thinking about ditching the big wedding for something more personal and scenic? The Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia is the perfect spot for an unforgettable elopement. Picture this: winding roads, breathtaking views, lush forests, and ancient blue-tinged mountains stretching as far as the eye can see. This could be the backdrop for your wedding. Sounds epic, right?! If exchanging vows in nature sounds like a dream come true, keep reading for everything you need to know about eloping on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia.
Choose Your Spot
The Blue Ridge Parkway stretches over 450 miles, with over 180 miles winding through Virginia, providing countless scenic spots for a magical and intimate elopement! Research different overlooks, trails, and waterfalls along the parkway to find the perfect location that speaks to you as a couple. Whether you prefer to park and make your way to an accessible yet gorgeous overlook or you’re excited about going on an adventure to find the perfect waterfall or mountaintop, there’s certainly a spot along the parkway to suit your vision.
On this website, you can find a comprehensive list of the Blue Ridge Parkway mileposts. The Virginia portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway spans from mile marker 0 to mile marker 189, with spots in Southwest Virginia starting from mile marker 83.1 to mile marker 189. Mile marker 189.1 (Pilot Mountain) is the beginning of North Carolina’s section of the Blue Ridge Parkway.
If your goal is accessibility and ease while guaranteeing beautiful views, I’d recommend Cahas Mountain Overlook, The Saddle Overlook, or, my personal favorite, Roanoke Mountain (otherwise known as Mill Mountain). I’ve actually done two elopements at Roanoke Mountain, check them out here: Christina and PJ’s Mill Mountain Park elopement and Jenny and Adam’s Mill Mountain Star elopement.
Craving a bit more adventure? Peaks of Otter is calling your name! There are so many gorgeous trails to choose from, not to mention a campsite and lodging accommodations are also available to you in one convenient spot. If you really want the true mountain experience, Sharp Top trail is going to be the one for you!
Please note that there are some locations on the Blue Ridge Parkway that you cannot use for a vow exchange, elopement, or wedding while other locations will have varying capacity limits. You can check to see which spots are restricted and/or have special considerations on the National Park Service’s website.
Also keep in mind that sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway might face closures due to ongoing construction or adverse weather conditions. Luckily, the National Park Service regularly updates Parkway closure details on its official website.
Obtain the Necessary Permits
While the Blue Ridge Parkway is a public park, you will need to obtain what is called a Special Use Permit to have a vow exchange, elopement, or wedding at any spot on the parkway. I’ve written an entire blog covering everything you need to know about the Blue Ridge Parkway Special Use Permit, including how to apply, what comes with the permit, the cost of the permit, and rules you need to know about while planning your wedding.
While the Blue Ridge Parkway typically requires a minimum of 30 days’ notice for permits, I recommend couples submit their permit applications as soon as they select their location, or at the very minimum, with three months’ notice. This extra time ensures that everything is in order, reducing any last-minute stress and increasing the chances of securing your desired date and location. It also allows us enough time to pivot and find another spot should the permit be denied.
In addition to the Special Use Permit, if you are intending to legally get married on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia, you will need to be sure to obtain your marriage license. You can find more information about how to legally get married in Virginia here. In that blog, you’ll also find my top recommendations for local officiants!
Plan Your Ceremony
Keep in mind that eloping doesn’t mean you have to forgo all the elements of a traditional wedding ceremony. Decide whether you want to exchange vows at sunrise, sunset, or during the day, and plan accordingly. Consider hiring a photographer (wink, wink, nudge, nudge) or videographer to capture the special moments of your elopement. You may also want to write your own vows or include meaningful rituals to personalize your ceremony. While live or dried flowers aren’t allowed, you can get a silk or paper bouquet made to still have that special touch and note on your wedding day. For silk bouquets, I’d highly recommend reaching out to Mark Frye at Creative Occasions and Events.
If you plan to invite guests to witness your ceremony, remember that Blue Ridge Parkway wedding permits are limited to 25 total people – including wedding party, officiant, and photographer – or fewer. If you need help keeping a short guest list, check out this blog I wrote! Alternatively, your ceremony can be just the two of you and you can have a reception with loved ones at a different location, like a nearby restaurant, Airbnb/Vrbo, a more “traditional” reception venue, a park, or other special spot.
Need help with planning your ceremony? That’s what I’m here for! Along with snapping photos of every single moment of your elopement day, I also create and manage your elopement timeline so that you have an exact plan for your wedding day and know where to be and when. This will allow you to be present in the moment without having to check the clock.
Consider Logistics
Since elopements are typically more intimate affairs, you’ll have fewer logistical details to manage compared to a traditional wedding. However, it’s still important to consider factors such as transportation, accommodations, and any necessary supplies for your elopement. If you’re traveling to the Blue Ridge Parkway from out of town, make arrangements for lodging and transportation well in advance to ensure a stress-free experience.
For instance, some overlooks along the Blue Ridge Parkway will have ample parking, since the point of the parkway is to encourage drivers to take a break and enjoy the views. However, I’ve hiked trails on the Blue Ridge Parkway where parking options were slim.
Additionally, when considering accommodations for yourself or any out-of-town guests, keep in mind that the nearest towns and cities to the Blue Ridge Parkway are going to be Roanoke, Wytheville, Buchanan, Rocky Mount, Floyd, Fincastle, Troutville, Vinton, and Salem.
Don’t worry though, with me by your side, you won’t be figuring out all of the logistics by yourself! You tell me what vision you’re hoping to achieve, I’ll create timeline options and present them to you, make a checklist of items to bring with you for your elopement day based on the activities you select, and provide a list of vendor and lodging recommendations for you.
Additionally, I also offer location scouting services for my couples. Put simply, this means I’ll be doing a walkthrough of your elopement day before we meet to make sure that your spot isn’t closed, and if it is, find a backup option, check out the parking situation, scope out the bathrooms, and time how long it takes to go from place to place.
Embrace the Natural Beauty
One of the most significant advantages of eloping on the Blue Ridge Parkway is the stunning natural scenery that surrounds you. Take advantage of the breathtaking views, vibrant foliage (especially during the fall!*), and serene atmosphere to create unforgettable moments on your wedding day. Speaking of the seasons, figure out the best season to elope in Virginia here.
I also mention embracing the natural beauty because there are a number of restrictions set in place when you’re using the Blue Ridge Parkway as your venue for your elopement, wedding, or vow exchange location. As an example the use of arbors, arches, stands, risers, or other similar unnatural props, including ribbons balloons, or signs is prohibited. However, this just means that any natural arch at your chosen spot could be used as an alter and any surrounding rocks can become seats for any guests in attendance. Eloping on the Blue Ridge Parkway is all about being creative and embracing what’s around you!
*While eloping on the Blue Ridge Parkway in the fall is stunning, please note that this is also peak tourism time, so you will likely encounter more crowds.
Dress Accordingly
When planning your elopement attire, consider the climate and terrain of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Depending on the season and location, temperatures can vary, so dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day. Choose footwear that’s suitable for walking on uneven terrain, whether you’re hiking to a remote overlook or exploring a scenic trail. Opt for attire that complements the natural surroundings and reflects your personal style as a couple. If you’re hiking more than a mile on your elopement day, I would recommend that you wear your hiking attire during your hike and change into your wedding attire once you reach the summit.
Celebrate Afterwards
After you’ve exchanged vows and taken photographs to commemorate your elopement, take some time to celebrate together as a couple. Whether you’re enjoying a romantic dinner at a nearby restaurant, indulging in a champagne toast at your accommodations, or simply snuggling up under the stars, savor the moments of togetherness and reflection after your magical day on the Blue Ridge Parkway. If you’re thinking about renting an Airbnb or Vrbo for your elopement day, here’s a blog that I’ve written to help!
This is also a great opportunity to rent an Airbnb or Vrbo to celebrate with close loved ones (or just you two!). Here’s what to consider when choosing an Airbnb or Vrbo for your wedding day.
Share Your Story
While eloping is often a private and intimate affair, don’t hesitate to share your love story and elopement experience with your friends and family. Share your photos and memories of your day on social media or through a personal blog to inspire other couples dreaming of an intimate wedding in nature. Consider sending out announcements or hosting a small gathering to celebrate your marriage with loved ones who couldn’t be present at your elopement. If you’re thinking about hosting a reception after eloping, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you organize a wedding reception, broken down by tasks and timelines.
Cherish the Memories
Above all, cherish the memories of your elopement on the Blue Ridge Parkway for years to come. Whether you return to the parkway to celebrate your anniversary or reminisce about your special day, let the beauty and magic of your elopement serve as a reminder of the love and commitment you share as a couple. Elope on the Blue Ridge Parkway and embark on a journey of love and adventure amidst the breathtaking beauty of Virginia’s iconic landscape.
Are you ready to start planning your Virginia elopement? Reach out to me today to schedule your free consultation call! Let’s turn your dream elopement into a reality. Curious about my packages and pricing options? Head over to my pricing page for more information. I can’t wait to hear from you and help bring your vision to life!
Need more inspiration for your elopement or micro-wedding? Check out other couples just like you who said “eff it” to the big wedding and the traditions and decided to curate a day for themselves:
