Free Epic Elopements Locations: Top 5 Short Hikes in Juneau, Alaska for Adventurous Couples

Are you dreaming of an intimate elopement surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of nature? Juneau, Alaska, offers a stunning backdrop for adventurous couples seeking a unique and memorable wedding experience. As an intimate destination wedding videographer born and raised in Juneau, I’ve curated a list of the top 5 hikes in Juneau that not only showcase the natural wonders of this Alaskan gem but also provide a perfect setting for your elopement. And you can get to them in 3 miles or less!

Stick around for legalities of eloping in Juneau, Alaska at the end too!

1. Perseverance Trail: Embracing History in the Wilderness

• Hike Length: Approximately 2.8 miles (one way)
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate
  • Trailhead: Accessed from Basin Road, this historic trail takes you through lush rainforest and offers glimpses of old mining relics
• Idea for Couples: Picture exchanging vows amidst the historic charm of the Perseverance Trail. The remnants of old mining structures add a touch of history to your special day. Capture the magic of your commitment surrounded by lush rainforest and the echoes of a bygone era.
  • Ceremony Spot: Choose a scenic spot along the trail for an intimate ceremony surrounded by the beauty of the rainforest.
  • Historical Theme: Incorporate the area’s mining history into your wedding theme or decor to add a unique touch.
• Fees/Permits: For small, non-commercial gatherings, no specific permit is required. However, if planning a larger event, check with the City and Borough of Juneau Parks and Recreation Department.
• Best Season: Late spring to early fall (May to September) for milder weather and vibrant greenery. . During these months, the weather is generally milder, with warmer temperatures and more stable conditions. The lush greenery along the trail is in full bloom, creating a picturesque setting.
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Trailhead: Accessed from Basin Road, this historic trail takes you through lush rainforest and offers glimpses of old mining relics

2. Mount Roberts Trail: Soaring Heights and Panoramic Vistas

• Hike Length: Approximately 2 miles (one way)
  • Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
  • Trailhead: Accessible from the Mount Roberts Tramway, this trail leads to the summit of Mount Roberts, providing panoramic views of Juneau and the surrounding area.
• Idea for Couples: Elevate your love to new heights by exchanging vows at the summit of Mount Roberts. Accessible via the Mount Roberts Tramway, this trail offers panoramic views of Juneau and the surrounding wilderness, creating a truly majestic backdrop for your elopement.
  • Mountain-Top Ceremony: Exchange vows at the summit of Mount Roberts, with breathtaking views as your backdrop.
  • Tramway Arrival: Make a grand entrance or exit by arriving or departing via the Mount Roberts Tramway, adding a touch of adventure to your celebration.
• Fees/Permits: Coordinate with the tramway operators for transportation fees. For ceremonies at the summit, check with the U.S. Forest Service for any necessary permits.
• Best Season: Late spring to early fall (May to September) for clear views and potentially fewer crowds. Similar to Perseverance Trail, this period provides more predictable weather, allowing for clear views from the summit. Spring and early fall might offer fewer crowds.

3. Nugget Falls Trail: Glacial Romance by the Waterfalls

• Hike Length: Approximately 1.5 miles (round trip)
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Trailhead: Located near the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, this trail takes you to the base of the impressive Nugget Falls, with great views of the glacier along the way.
• Idea for Couples: Immerse yourselves in the awe-inspiring beauty of Mendenhall Glacier and Nugget Falls. Say “I do” near the cascading waterfalls and capture the essence of your love against the backdrop of one of Alaska’s most iconic landscapes.
  • Glacier Backdrop: Have a ceremony with the stunning Nugget Falls and Mendenhall Glacier as your backdrop.
  • Photo Opportunities: Take advantage of the picturesque surroundings for memorable wedding photos.
• Fees/Permits: Check with the U.S. Forest Service or the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center for any necessary permits.
• Best Season: Late spring to early fall (May to September) for the best access and scenic views. The trail is most accessible during these months, and the views of Nugget Falls and Mendenhall Glacier are likely to be more spectacular. Late spring and early summer might also coincide with salmon spawning, adding to the natural beauty.

4. Fish Creek Falls Trail: A Tranquil Celebration by the Creek

• Hike Length: Approximately 2 miles (round trip)
• Idea for Couples: Plan an intimate ceremony near Fish Creek, surrounded by the serene sounds of nature. Embrace the salmon spawning season for a unique and unforgettable wedding experience.
  • Salmon-Themed Decor: Embrace the salmon spawning season by incorporating salmon-themed decor or colors into your wedding.
  • Creek-Side Ceremony: Say your vows near Fish Creek, surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature.
• Fees/Permits: Check with the Macaulay Salmon Hatchery or the City and Borough of Juneau for any permit requirements.
• Best Season: Late summer to early fall (August to September) for optimal salmon spawning and stable weather. This period aligns with the salmon spawning season, providing a unique and memorable backdrop for your wedding. Late summer also tends to have more stable weather conditions.

5. East Glacier Loop Trail: Nature’s Grandeur in Every Step

• Hike Length: Approximately 2.9 miles (loop)
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Trailhead: Found near the Macaulay Salmon Hatchery, this trail follows Fish Creek and offers opportunities for bird watching and salmon viewing during the spawning season.
• Idea for Couples: Experience the diverse scenery of the East Glacier Loop Trail by planning different parts of your celebration at various points along the loop. Let the changing landscapes symbolize the journey of your love.
  • Diverse Scenery: Plan different parts of your celebration at various points along the loop to experience the trail’s diverse scenery.
  • Nature-Inspired Decor: Use elements from the trail, such as wildflowers or ferns, in your wedding decor for a natural and cohesive theme.
• Fees/Permits: Contact the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center or the Tongass National Forest for any necessary permits.
• Best Season: Late spring to early fall (May to September) for comfortable trail conditions and a variety of natural features. Similar to the other trails, this time frame ensures better trail conditions and a more comfortable outdoor experience. Late spring might offer blooming wildflowers along the trail.

In conclusion, Juneau, Alaska, provides a myriad of enchanting locations for adventurous couples to elope. From historic trails to mountain summits, each hike offers a unique backdrop for your intimate celebration. Before embarking on your journey, be sure to check permit requirements, prepare for the weather, and choose the season that resonates most with your love story. As an intimate destination wedding videographer, I’m thrilled at the prospect of capturing your love amidst the untamed beauty of Juneau.

Learn How to Elope Juneau Alaska