Couple reading their vows in front of alpine lake with larches in Banff National Park

While the road to the location within Banff National Park was nice and sunny, a beautiful fall day, as we climbed in elevation to the beautiful alpine lake the wind picked up and the clouds covered over the sun.

However that didn’t deter the bride and groom. Tara and Colton were as excited for their big day as I was. It looked like it was going to snow, and it was going to be so beautiful!

We started off on the hike, climbing steeply for a short while. Given that it was fall and almost prime larch season, the crowds were no joke, but as we got higher, and the weather got colder, the trail became less crowded, and we had the space to ourselves.

When the trail started to flatten off, Tara and Colton changed into their wedding attire, helping each other get ready to say their vows. The larch trees were just starting to change their color, but they provided for an outstanding backdrop.

The snow started to fall just moments prior, and although the mountains became difficult to see towering around us, the scene became magical.

We continued to hike a little further through the brilliant yellow larches until the scene opened up, revealing another lake and mountains shrouded in falling snow.

Tara and Colton said their vows together, staring into each others eyes and feeling the love for one another on their special day. However, it didn’t take long for them to start to feel the chill, so we took many breaks while they warmed up huddled together, Colton offering his jacket, and we worked to get as many photos as possible before they got too cold.

They had their heart set on a picnic, so as we started back down the trail, we picked a spot and they cuddled up together with their charcuterie lunch, and popped some champagne. There wasn’t any other souls in sight, which made everything that much more intimate.

We continued back down, and they chose to stay in their wedding attire for more photos at the bottom. The sun had set and it was getting dark, but we couldn’t pass up an opportunity to get them in front of the stunning Moraine lake. The mountains were shrouded in mist, but the lake was as blue as ever.

They didn’t let the cold dampen their mood, and took in the scenery like it was the first time, staying close in each other’s arms and laughing.

We finished off the night with photos in front of their vehicle, before they headed to their hotel to celebrate, and I home for some much needed warmth and rest.

Congratulations to Tara and Colton! They couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful elopement.

Considering Banff National Park for your own elopement? There are so many options, and the more northern Jasper National Park is just as beautiful, and often quieter. If you’re considering a mountain elopement and looking for a photographer, let’s chat! I can’t wait to help you find your dream location.

Stationary by: Holly Loves Paper

Flowers by: Creative Edge Flowers YYC