Isle Royale National Park elopement

Isle Royale National Park is the least visited US National Park, and one of the most unique places for an elopement!

This elopement in particular was a blend of luxury, adventure, with some rustic and romantic vibes there too. Oh, and a little hint of Wes Anderson? You’ll see what I mean. 🙂

The story began at a local boutique hotel in Houghton, Michigan called The Vault. This hotel is super modern and chic and very photogenic for “getting ready” moments. So this is where I met Katie Rose & Jesse before out appointment at the dock.

Isle Royale is quite isolated out there on Lake Michigan (which feels more like an ocean than a lake!). The only way to access the island is via boat or float plane. For their elopement day they chose the latter.

We climbed into the plane run by Isle Royale Seaplanes and took off for their National Park elopement location. I’ll never forget the view coming in. After flying by water for so long, seeing the little islands come into view was so exciting (and breathtaking)! We hopped off the plane, checked into their cabin, and then it was off to hike!

We hiked along the shore, stopping to look for an eagles nest or see an occasional boat that went by. Once Katie Rose & Jesse got out to a point on the peninsula, it was time for the ceremony. They found a spot they loved and I distanced myself so they could enjoy their vows privately.

Post-ceremony celebrations consisted of a beautifully packed picnic, and sitting back to take in the view. How cool to have your own remote peninsula on an island in the middle of a massive lake all to yourselves when you get married?

The day ended around a campfire with s’mores, before walking back to their cabin for the evening. On the last day of their stay, we all caught a float plane right back to the mainland.

To say this wedding experience was unforgettable is a complete understatement. Here’s a peek into Katie Rose & Jesse’s National Park wedding.

How to have an Isle Royale National Park wedding

The only way to get to Isle Royale National Park is by float plane, boat, or ferry! I highly recommend traveling via float plane with Isle Royale Sea Planes as it’s the quickest method, and the most unique + exciting. Especially for a wedding day— what better way to arrive to your destination than by air?!

Isle Royale National Park wedding permit

Ok! So you’re thinking about having a wedding at one of the most unique US National Parks. You already know I’m here for it. All you have to do is apply for your wedding permit through Isle Royale National Park.

Isle Royale National Park Elopement Photographer

Very few people can say they’ve done such a thing as getting married at Isle Royale. I’d love to share my knowledge with you about this incredibly unique location, and help you pull off your own elopement adventure there.