Why Choose to Elope in New York State?
New York state is filled with vast forests, lush waterfalls, historic towns, and so much that is worth exploring! From New York City to Upstate New York, this state has so much to offer. As someone who used to live in New York for four years, I can tell you the scenery is nothing short of breathtaking. If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience on your elopement day, New York state will give you just that!
Where to Elope in New York State?
New York State has many stunning locations to offer for your intimate elopement or micro wedding day.
- The Catskill Mountains
- Lake George
- The Finger Lakes Region
- The Adirondack Mountains
The Catskill Mountains
The Catskill Mountains are located in the Southeastern part of New York State and are known for their plentiful hiking trails, scenic landscapes, antiques, museums, and many outdoor activities! Here are some fantastic locations:
- Kaaterskill Falls: A hike that leads to a stunning waterfall that makes a picturesque backdrop for your vows. It gets crowded though, so it’s best to go off season or get there very early.
- Minnewaska State Park: Located in the Shawangunk Mountain Range, this park has it all! From a beautiful waterfall, to epic rock formations, to a beautiful forest, to stunning vistas. This park is perfect for any season! (Think EPIC frozen waterfall in the Winter time)!
- Bear Mountain State Park: This gorgeous state park is located on the West Bank of the Hudson River. The Bear Mountain Inn has a beautiful lake nearby, and the mountain itself has some views that are to die for! You can also see the Bear Mountain bridge from the docks, and the reflection in the water is stunning!
- Little Stony Point Park: Also along the Hudson River, this park has amazing views! There is a short trail to the summit with vast views, as well as a lovely beach that you can explore.
Lake George
Lake George is located in the southeastern section of the Adirondacks. This place is very special to me as my family would go camping here ever since I was a little girl. Lake George is rich in history as it is close to The Fort William Henry Museum and Fort Ticonderoga. Lake George has many outdoor activity options if you are an outdoorsy person – I personally love it the best in the late Summer months. Here are some locations that are perfect for a Lake George elopement:
- Shelving Rock Falls: A short hike leads you to this secluded and gorgeous waterfall hidden in the Lake George forest! This is a perfect spot for the woodsy couple!
- The Pinnacle: Not far from Lake George Village and yet you feel like you are nowhere near civilization. The Pinnacle is perfect for a sunrise or sunset elopement with stunning views of the lake behind you! This trail is a very short one too, spanning about 1.5 miles round trip.
- Lake George Steamboat Company: For a fun and unique experience, set out on a private charter on one of Lake George’s historic steamboats! Enjoy a tour of the mountains as you say your vows on Lake George’s beautiful waters.
- Hearthstone Point: Located on the beach of the campground I grew up going to, this lakeside beach is perfect for exchanging vows. Early morning or during golden hour is best, it is very quiet and intimate and you are not far from Lake George Village to celebrate after!
The Finger Lakes Region
The Finger Lakes are a group of eleven long and narrow lakes that on a map look like fingers! They are near Ithaca and they are known for some pretty dang amazing wineries, breweries, and museums (aside from the stunning scenery)! Here are some of my favorite spots in the region:
- Taughannock Falls: Home to the highest waterfall in New York State, this place is quite spectacular. Choose whether to say your vows at the base of the falls, or venture to one of the scenic overlooks.
- Watkins Glen State Park: Are you a Lord of the Rings fan? If so, you will ADORE the 19 waterfalls within this magical park. Picture walking up stairs with waterfalls surrounding you… it’s a dream come true!
- Garrett Memorial Chapel: A charming and historic chapel that overlooks Keuka Lake. This is for a very intimate elopement and the chapel requires a good notice for your application to have your ceremony there. Make sure to inquire in a timely manner if you have your heart set on this gorgeous setting!
- Letchworth State Park: Nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of the East”, this state park is home to sparkling waterfalls, a 600-foot gorge, and miles of lush forest. This place is near and dear to me as this is where my husband proposed to me! He knows it is one of my favorite places, and I know it could be just that for you too!
The Adirondack Mountains
The Adirondack Mountains are spread throughout Northeastern New York covering about 5,000 square miles. Known for its vast outdoor recreation, The Adirondacks are home to Olympic sites in Lake Placid and are also popular for hiking, paddling, skiing, and many other sports. Here are some magical spots:
- Saranac Lake & Mount Baker: This lake has some stunning views, especially in the Fall time! Mount Baker offers some awe-inspiring views as well! A quiet misty morning on Saranac Lake is something to behold.
- Bald Mountain in Old Forge: Also known as the “Adirondack Base Camp”, Old Forge is the perfect central place to have your elopement. There is so much to do and see! Bald Mountain has a short hike that is perfect for saying your vows during sunrise or sunset!
- Baxter Mountain: This hike is short but that does not mean it is anything short of exquisite! This hike is perfect for a sunrise or sunset elopement. Find a private spot for your vows amidst the rocks and the trees and fall in love all over again.
- Lake Placid: There are many stunning locations in Lake Placid to elope! From Whiteface Mountain, to Mirror Lake, to Cobble Lookout, to so much more, Lake Placid has so much to offer! Winter weddings are especially heavenly!
If you’re ready to elope in New York State, any of these stunning destinations are bound to grant you an unforgettable elopement experience! Let’s start planning your dream elopement together!
