How to Elope in the Hudson Valley: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ditch the big wedding drama and plan an intimate elopement in the Hudson Valley.
If traditional weddings make you think about stuffy ballrooms and overpriced catering halls, maybe that's not your vibe. You should be excited about saying your 'I Dos' in a place that you love.
So tone down the glitz, ditch the big wedding drama—and head for the hills, literally. With beautiful landscapes and awe-inspiring mountain views in spades, the Hudson Valley makes the perfect setting for an intimate elopement.
Don't know where to begin? No worries, start here with this guide to planning a beautiful Hudson Valley elopement. You'll find expert tips, local secrets, and practical ways to personalize your celebration.
Read on, and let's make sure your wedding day is magical.
Why to choose to Elope?
Imagine this: in the quiet dark before dawn, you and your love giggle as you get ready, lacing up your boots and feeling the cool morning air. Suddenly, your photographer arrives with a box of warm baked goods, the sweet scent of cinnamon filling the air. After brewing coffee together, you step onto the trail just as the first hints of sunlight peek over the horizon.
With every step up the steep path, the sky transforms into stunning shades of pink and orange, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Hand in hand, the sun's rays warm your skin, filling you both with hope. Reaching into your pockets, you pull out the handwritten vows, hurriedly finalized the night before. Taking a deep breath, you lock eyes, completely forgetting the photographer’s presence. It’s just the two of you, sharing heartfelt words amid nature's beauty—truly a perfect moment.
This kind of experience is exactly why many couples are choosing to elope. For starters, it lets them break away from traditional wedding norms and do something that feels more like them. Eloping creates an intimate and private experience, making it all about just the two of them. It’s also a fun adventure. Planning a getaway can feel spontaneous and exciting, giving them the chance to explore new places together. Plus, skipping the big wedding often means less family drama, allowing them to focus on their love without added stress. In the end, eloping offers a simple, authentic celebration that’s all about what they want.
Why you should elope in the Hudson Valley NY?
Hudson Valley is just an hour and a half north of Manhattan. Known for its farm-to-table food scene, its extensive outdoor recreation, and its historical landmarks, it is the perfect four-season destination. A Hudson Valley wedding is like having a destination wedding close to home—your guests won’t have to travel far. Many venues would let you book the entire property for the weekend, making it feel like a nice retreat with family and friends. You’ll find plenty of space for fun activities like going on a air balloon, wine tasting, bonfires, farm dinners, offering a refreshing change from the city.
While New York City can be crowded, Hudson Valley gives you the chance for a more private ceremony with stunning views. You could even try glamping! This area is great for outdoor weddings, and there are companies that can help set up tents for your celebration. Plus, you’ll enjoy those beautiful mountain views and a variety of venue options.
The Hudson Valley also has many excellent food vendors. In recent years, chefs from the city have moved here, bringing even more delicious dining options.
How to Find Your Hudson Valley Elopement Location
Choosing the right spot for your Hudson Valley elopement can be exciting, but it can also feel a bit tricky. Here are some simple questions to help you find the perfect place:
What Kind of Scenery Do You Want?
Do you picture getting married with stunning mountains, waterfalls, a peaceful lakeside, or the ocean as the backdrop? Think about what kind of view makes you both happy.What Activities Do You Want to Do?
Are you looking to hike to a beautiful spot, stargazing, canoeing or maybe have a picnic after your ceremony? Consider what fun things you’d like to include in your special.Accessibility vs. Adventure
Do you want an easy-to-reach location, or are you up for a little adventure? If you’re thinking about hiking, how far are you willing to walk? A short stroll might lead to a nice spot, while a longer hike could give you amazing views. Just keep in mind that some guests may not be able to manage longer or steep hikes, so it’s important to consider their comfort when making your choice.How Far Are You Willing to Drive?
Think about how far you want to drive from where you’re staying to your ceremony location. Some couples like to keep it close, while others don’t mind a bit of a drive if it means a gorgeous backdrop.What Matters Most to You?
Finally, what’s the most important part of your elopement day? Is it the beautiful scenery, having some privacy, or the activities you can enjoy together? Figuring out your top priorities will help you choose the right spot.
By answering these questions, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect elopement location that feels just right for you. Happy planning!
Things to Consider When Choosing Where to Elope in Hudson Valley, NY
When it comes to picking the perfect spot for your elopement in Hudson Valley, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Well-Known Spots Can Get Crowded
Hudson Valley has some beautiful and popular locations, but they can be quite busy, especially on weekends. (like Sam’s Point) If you’re dreaming of a peaceful ceremony, consider less crowded times or spots. Sometimes, the best views are just off the beaten path! I really enjoy discovering those peaceful, tucked-away spots for my couples.Mix Up Your Scenery
You don’t have to settle on just one type of scenery! If you love the sound of waterfalls but also want those stunning 360-degree mountain views, why not have both? We could find areas where different landscapes are close together, allowing you to explore multiple locations in one day.Ceremony and Private Time
If you’re eloping with family and friends, you might want to have your ceremony in one beautiful spot, then sneak away to another area for some alone time. This way, you get the best of both worlds: a special moment with loved ones and a private escape for just the two of you. Not sure if you should invite guests or not? You get to decide! There is no wrong or right answer. Think about who you’d like to have with you on your wedding day and who you want to see in your pictures 20 years from now. If you go completely private, you’ll have a really intimate day—you could even say your vows on a cliff without any distractions. But inviting a few close friends can make the day more fun and give you witnesses for the ceremony. Just think about the pros and cons and follow your heart. It’s not about a specific number. When choosing who to invite, pick the people you feel closest to, whether they’re friends or family—those you want by your side on your special day. And remember, if you’re getting married on a cliff or somewhere you have to hike, make sure your guests can handle it!Check Permit Requirements
Before you finalize your location, make sure to check if you need any permits. Some popular spots might have restrictions, so it’s good to be prepared and ensure everything goes smoothly on your big day.
By keeping these points in mind, you’ll be well on your way to choosing the perfect elopement location that reflects your style and love story!
Best Times to Elope in Hudson Valley
Sometimes couples aren’t sure when they want to elope. They may be flexible but are curious about the best time to choose in the Hudson Valley, especially if they’re hoping for those beautiful fall colors.
Ultimately, the best time to get married really depends on what feels right for YOU! 😊 It’s helpful to think about each season and what you love about them.
Weddings in the Hudson Valley are most popular from May to October, while the off-season typically runs from November to March, with April being a bit slower. Let’s break it down!
May and June
The days get longer, flowers start to bloom, and the air feels fresh. It’s a time for new beginnings, and everything comes back to life. People love to be outside, enjoying picnics in the park, taking walks on blooming trails, and listening to birds singing. It’s a great time for celebrations. However, the popular spots for elopements can get crowded. Since there are usually a lot of April showers, it might be better to skip April and go with May instead. Because June it can get really hot.
July and August
When every summer arrives, New Yorkers remember why we put up with harsh, long winters. If you love sunshine and warm weather, summer is a great choice for your wedding. You’ll have more daylight, so you can start the ceremony later and enjoy the lovely evening during your reception and after-party. Just keep in mind that it can get hot and humid, so make sure your venue has AC or shaded areas for your guests. During the summer there will be more things to see and do in the area for an adventurous wedding such as hiking, wine trails, and fairs. Summer weddings have such a fun, relaxed vibe, which is great for casual attire and a laid-back atmosphere.
September and October
I really think September and October are the best months for an outdoor wedding in the Hudson Valley. The bright red, orange, and yellow colors make such a stunning backdrop. Just keep in mind that fall is a busy season for weddings, so it’s a good idea to do your research and book your wedding vendors early if you’re eloping. To avoid the crowds, try planning your elopement at sunrise or sunset for a truly magical moment.
November-March
Winter can be a great time to have a wedding. While they aren’t for everyone, as a wedding photographer in the Hudson Valley, I think they’re truly special. Getting married in the winter has some great benefits. First, it's easier to book vendors because there are usually fewer weddings happening, so you’ll have more choices and less stress if someone needs to cancel. Plus, winter weddings often cost less, helping you stick to your budget. Most importantly, they’re super memorable—your special day will stand out in a way that spring and summer weddings often don’t, making it unforgettable for you and your guests. However, winter weather can be unpredictable—snow and ice might make travel tricky for your guests, and you might end up with shorter days, which can limit natural light for those gorgeous photos. Plus, some venues might be less available or even closed during the winter months. Let’s not forget about the attire; while you want everyone to look fabulous, staying warm can be a bit of a challenge. And with holiday season overlaps, some friends and family might have other commitments. So, while winter weddings have their charm, it’s good to weigh these factors to make sure it’s the right fit for you.
Amazing Locations for Eloping in the Hudson Valley
Now that you've got a feel for the vibe you're after and when you want to tie the knot, here are my top picks for Hudson Valley elopement spots:
Mohonk Preserve (Mohonk Mountain House)
Mohonk Preserve, located in the Shawangunk Ridge in New York, offers stunning natural beauty and a variety of scenic backdrops, making it ideal for elopements. With its vast, picturesque landscapes, couples can enjoy privacy and intimacy in various settings, from cliffs and meadows to forests. The preserve's accessibility, year-round beauty, and opportunities for outdoor adventures like hiking and rock climbing enhance its appeal. However, one of the best parts of this majestic area is the Mohonk Mountain House, a Victorian castle perched above a pristine lake surrounded by 40,000 acres of forest. Mohonk Mountain House is like something straight out of a fairytale, offering everything from cliffside ceremonies to lakeside lounging. Pro tip: book a room with a balcony for a private toast under the stars.
Bear Mountain State Park
If you're looking for stunning views and a true connection with nature, Bear Mountain State Park in the Hudson Valley is the perfect spot. The trails are well-maintained, the scenery is breathtaking.
There’s so much to do here, and it’s a park for all seasons. It offers a pool, a small zoo, hiking trails, paddle boats, and even an antique carousel. With twisty roads, fresh mountain air, and plenty of picture-perfect spots, it's a cool place to elope.
The most popular activity is hiking up Bear Mountain, especially along the Appalachian Trail. It's a moderately challenging hike featuring 900 steps carved into rock, but the views from the top make it all worthwhile for stunning views. From the summit, you can see the Hudson River and even catch a glimpse of the NYC skyline on clear days. If hiking isn’t your thing, no worries—you can drive to the top and still enjoy the incredible views from Perkins Tower.
For your elopement, the park also features the beautiful Bear Mountain Inn. Offering both food and lodging, it's an ideal spot to extend your visit and turn a day trip or elopement into a relaxing weekend. You can also take a short walk to the Trailside Zoo, explore the animals, or visit the small museums nearby. With so many activities and gorgeous views of the Hudson River, you could easily spend the whole day here and still not see everything. Just note, parking is $10 for the day.
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Minnewaska State Park has so many trails to explore, it’s the perfect mix of beauty and adventure. Whether you're into hiking, biking, kayaking, or just looking for a scenic place to exchange vows, this park offers it all.
The $10 entry/parking fee is totally worth it for a full day of scenery. The park also has clear, well-marked trails, and if you're unsure where to go, you can easily grab a map at the entrance. Plus, New Paltz, a charming town nearby, has great restaurants if you're looking to celebrate afterward.
For couples planning to elope here, the park offers weekday weddings for up to 15 guests, with permits costing $200. If you’re only looking to take wedding or engagement photos, there's no additional fee beyond parking.
This park includes dense hardwood forests, beautiful views and three lakes. My favorite spot is Sam’s Point. The Sam's Point Preserve, located on the highest section of the Shawangunk Mountains, is the most southerly section of Minnewaska State Park Preserve. It is located 2.8 miles off State Route 52 in the historic hamlet of Cragsmoor, New York. There’s a cliff about a mile up from the parking lot (about 15-30 minutes to the top, depending on your pace), which is a beautiful pit stop to take in the view of the Hudson valley. If you are up to it 😊 , you can continue for another mile or so to view the falls ( beautiful!!!) , and once you’re at the Peak, you won’t want to leave. The views are absolutely amazing.
Overall, Minnewaska State Park is clean, easy to navigate, and full of incredible scenic spots. Whether you're planning a small ceremony by the lake or just want some stunning photos in nature, this park offers the perfect setting for a peaceful, intimate elopement. Highly recommend!
Kaaterskill Falls
If you're dreaming of an intimate elopement surrounded by nature, Kaaterskill Falls in the Hudson Valley is a breathtaking choice. There are two trails that take you to the waterfalls: one is the upper trail, and the other is the lower trail. The upper trail has a lookout and a short 0.1-mile path that goes down to the waterfalls. The lower trail is 0.6 miles long and starts near the big rock formation called Bastion Falls. It follows the creek up to the base of the falls, so you can get a great view. You can park at the top of the falls on Laurel House Road. But if you're planning a weekend ceremony and the lot is full, don’t worry—you can park at the nearby North-South Lake Campground and take a short, easy hike to the falls, less than a mile away.
The hike to the falls is an adventure in itself. From the top, you’ll descend 300 steps to reach the bottom, where the view is absolutely worth the effort. Pace yourself, enjoy the beauty of the woods, and when you reach the bottom... wow! The waterfall is simply stunning. For an elopement, this spot makes for unforgettable photos and a secluded ceremony.
If you’re looking for something a little less strenuous, you can also access the lower falls from a parking lot along Route 23A, east of Tannersville. It’s a shorter uphill walk to the base, with beautiful views along the way. For couples seeking more adventure, you can hike to the upper viewpoint via a marked trail that connects the two viewpoints (yes, it’s another 300 steps, but worth every one!). Be sure to wear sturdy footwear, especially if you’re planning to hike after your vows.
We recommend visiting early in the day if you want a quieter, more intimate experience. The parking lots fill up quickly, and the trails get busy by late morning. If you're planning a morning ceremony or a private moment, it’s best to arrive early.
Whether you’re planning a simple elopement at the base of the falls or just want unforgettable wedding photos, Kaaterskill Falls offers an ideal setting. The beauty of the falls, the variety of trails, and the peaceful atmosphere make it the perfect backdrop for couples looking to celebrate their love in nature. And if you’re feeling adventurous, bring your swimsuit for a dip!
Just remember: go early, bring sturdy shoes, and soak in every beautiful moment. This place is truly special, and we highly recommend it for couples looking to elope in the Hudson Valley!
Bannerman Castle
What a unique location in the Hudson Valley! If you’re considering getting married at Bannerman Castle, here’s what you should know. The castle is a unique venue located on Pollepel Island, and it offers some stunning spots for your ceremony. You can exchange vows outdoors with beautiful views of the surrounding nature, or choose to have your ceremony inside the original house built in 1901.
Getting there is easy—the boat dock is right across from the Beacon train station, and parking is convenient. The boat ride to the island is short but pleasant, with some interesting information about Newburgh and the surrounding areas. During the ride you could see miles downriver to the sparkling bend where West Point rises from the cliff face, another monument to the military heritage. Once you arrive, the island is small and easy to navigate. There are some steps to climb (72), but they’re standard steps with rails, so it’s manageable for everyone.
The castle offers a unique, off-grid experience with a generator to cover essential needs. While there’s no running water, you'll be all set with two Clivus Multrum compostable toilets on site.The venue can accommodate up to 40 guests, and you must take a boat from the shore to the island using a ferry boat.
A great perk is that they now offer full catered receptions, thanks to their resident chef and hospitality team. It’s a nice touch to enjoy a meal with your loved ones while taking in the sunset over the mountains.
Bannerman Castle is run by the Bannerman Castle Trust, a non-profit group of volunteers working with New York State to preserve the island. Their goal is to maintain the historical significance of the site while educating the public about its history.
Overall, if you're looking for a memorable and scenic location for your wedding, Bannerman Castle could be a wonderful choice!
Choose your Vendors
I know this isn’t number one on the list, but I’d say it’s my top piece of advice: hire your vendors, especially your photographer, as soon as possible. An elopement photographer isn’t just there to take pictures—right from the start, they can help you plan your entire day. From choosing locations and creating a timeline to picking vendors and securing permits, they’ve got experience with all of it. Many photographers offer packages that include vendor recommendations, coordination services, and extra perks like adventure sessions or fun activities to make your day even more special. I offer all of these recommendations and coordination services and SO much more for free, so you’ll have expert guidance without any extra cost. Bringing me on board early can save you a ton of work and help everything run smoothly. Usually couples hire these vendors: Photographer, officiant, hair and make up artist, florist, caterer or chef and musician.
Legal Requirements for Eloping in New York
Now for the not-so-fun (but super important) stuff. Here's what you need to know to make your elopement legal:
Marriage License Requirements
First things first: you'll need a marriage license. Head to any town or city clerk's office in New York State with a valid ID and about $40. The license is valid for 60 days, but there's a 24-hour waiting period before you can tie the knot.
Officiant Requirements
New York's pretty chill about who can officiate your elopement. Judges, religious officials can do the honors. Just make sure they're registered with the state.
Witness Requirements
You'll need at least one witness to sign your marriage certificate. If you're planning a genuinely intimate elopement, your wedding photographer or a friendly local can be the witness.
State Park Permits
Like I mentioned earlier, you’ll need a permit, so it’s a good idea to check with the park administration early. Each park has its own rules, and some popular spots can fill up fast. Getting things sorted ahead of time will save you from any last-minute stress and help the day go smoothly. That way, you can focus on what really matters—enjoying the moment. I know it can feel like a lot, but I’m happy to help with permits, location planning, and vendor recommendations.
Activities and Experiences to Enhance Your Elopement
One of the things I love most about photographing elopements is how each couple gets to decide exactly how they want to spend their day. Unlike traditional weddings, which often stick to a timeline with the same activities, elopements are all about creating a day that truly reflects what you both enjoy. You can truly do whatever you want and even change your mind last minute. I could share here some fun ideas for elopement activities, but the most meaningful ones will always come from you two. Think about your journey together—your favorite dates, memorable trips, and dreams for the future. What can you add to your elopement day to make it truly special, beyond simply saying your vows in a beautiful spot? Let your unique story guide your choices. Here are some elopement activity ideas for introverts and those who prefer a more low-key experience:
Camping
Stargazing
Canoe
Campfire & S’mores
Surf
Cook Together
Hot Tub
Hire a Private Chef
Horse Riding
Watch the sunrise or watch the sunset
Ride in a Helicopter
Skiing
Backyard Celebration with Family
Have a Beach Picnic
Go on a hot air balloon ride at sunrise
Make a reservation in a nice restaurant
Conclusion
And there you have it—the ultimate guide to planning your dream Hudson Valley elopement. Whether you're after stunning mountain views, historic mansions, or a cozy forest ceremony, this region has it all. The beauty of eloping here is that you can truly make it your own, whether it's just the two of you or you're sharing the moment with a few close friends.
Remember, this day is all about celebrating your love, your way. So take a deep breath, soak in the enchanting surroundings, and enjoy every single moment. The Hudson Valley is waiting to make your elopement unforgettable. Now, go ahead and start planning the adventure of a lifetime
Do you need an elopement wedding photographer?
Hi! I am Leo, a Hudson Valley wedding photographer and videographer. I have 10 years in the business. I will guide you, give you direction through this process while making sure you have fun in the process. Intimate wedding in your backyard? Eloping in the mountains? I don't know your plans yet but I'm in!
