Some locations get so much love and attention it can get crowded and ruins the intimate experience you want to have. No one talks about the packed parking lots, literal traffic jams in national parks or the fact that you have to wait in the line to get the shot in that spot you want.

It takes aways so much from the intimacy you crave on your wedding day and the actual reason why you are actually eloping.

Here is a list of gorgeous locations that are not getting the attention they deserve.

1. BIG BEND, TEXAS

I mean, just look at the picture! It’s like Grand Canyon and kinda like Zion. Spring and fall is the best time to visit. I know about these dope hot springs. Let’s visit together!

2. TRINITY ALPS, CALIFORNIA

Are you disappointed that Yosemite turned into Disneyland? Elope in Trinity Alps in Northern California. This is a literal gem. I didn’t know about this place until 2020. You cannot! recognize this place from Eastern Sierras and the famous Ansel Adams Wilderness or Desolation Wilderness. It has pristine alpine lakes, stunning hike trails and bonus is that you don’t have to wait 300 years for a permit.

3. BADLANDS, SOUTH DAKOTA

I visited this park years ago and it completely blew me away. Isolated, which means not crowded! Yay! If you wanna check out more of the unique scenery, check out the movie Nomadland.

4. SAN JUAN ISLANDS, WASHINGTON

You have take a ferry to get there and that’s an adventure in itself. Also, who doesn’t wanna get married on an island? I can show you the best places! A lighthouse? Beaches? A park that’s the best for orca watching? Don’t forget to pack your binoculars!

5. BLACK ROCK DESERT, NEVADA

80% of Nevada consists of public lands and has more mountain tops than any other state. Which means you will hardly see any people. Nevada locations are very isolated and the state is is one of the darkest which makes it the best spot for some breathtaking stargazing. Black Rock Desert is famous because of Burning Man and I recommend visiting after the event in September, October or November, because in the winter it can turn into an actual lake. Hot springs alert!

6. BIG HORN NATIONAL FOREST

xxx

7. MARFA, TEXAS

Marfa is everything. It’s hip, it’s adventurous, it’s unique. You can pick one of the cool hotels or stay in a vintage trailer at El Cosmico. Great for anyone seeking a real adventure. Hey, maybe you can visit Big Bend! It’s only 1.5 hour away! Or the famous Prada store which is actually a permanent art installation.

8. MT. HOOD, OREGON

Everyone is obsessed with Mt. Rainier and I totally get it. It’s stunning, but there is a literally the same mountain just down the road. Haha. Mt. Hood is awesome! Great skiing by the way. I highly recommend staying at the famous Timberline Lodge. It’s an experience.

9. SMITH ROCK STATE PARK, OREGON

For location is a clear choice for those on the west coast who don’t want to travel all the way to Utah or Arizona. It’s majestic, but low key at the same time. Great for anyone who’s into rock climbing or horseback riding. Also, you can camp right in the park! When I was there, we went in fall and it was not crowded at all and we had a great time!

10. LAKE CUSHMAN, WASHINGTON

I feel like everybody goes to Lake Crescent which is gorgeous, but summer there is so packed. If you want similar vibe but with no crowds, go to Lake Cushman.

11. ALABAMA HILLS, CALIFORNIA

Words can’t express how much I love this place. I recommend any time of the year except, summer. I know, surprising, but it get so hot in the summer here! Don’t forget it’s very close to Death Valley and that does not need more explanation. I took the picture in the middle of a winter! I slept in the back the Jeep, woke up to a gorgeous sunrise and Mt. Whitney makes a great backdrop for your pictures. Despite it being a favorite Hollywood filming location, it rarely gets busy.

12. WHITE SANDS, NEW MEXICO

My dream location for a photoshoot. This place is our newest national park that was established in just 2019! I feel like this is one of the most unique places on Earth. Make your dreams come true in this surreal destination. I am planning on coming here soon! Ask me about eloping here!

13. LOST COAST

The Lost Coast is the longest undeveloped stretch of the Californian coastline known for its isolation, wildlife, rough roads and raw coast. The western slopes of King Range fall steeply into the Pacific Ocean with trails hugging the coastline. Lost Coast is the perfect place to visit if you want to experience wilderness and lush views. In summer it’s mostly sunny and temperatures stay around 80 degrees with occasional fog and light rain.

I know a few cool spots for camping and picture taking, so book your session with me there to discover my secrets!

Did you get inspired by this list and picked your elopement destination? I am so in! Book your free call with me and I will make you a package just for you!

Love,

Andrea :)

Most underrated elopement destinations in the U.S.

Unforgettable Disco Jelly Fish wedding at Burning Man