How to Get Married in Banff National Park: A Complete Guide for Couples

If you’re wondering how to get married in Banff, you’re in the right place. Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff offers stunning mountain views and breathtaking outdoor settings that make it one of the most iconic wedding destinations in Canada.

From securing your Alberta marriage license to choosing the perfect ceremony spot, this guide walks you through everything you need to know to plan a smooth and unforgettable wedding in Banff National Park.

Hi! We’re Dila and Kieran, your Banff-based wedding photographers with years of experience capturing unforgettable moments across the Rockies. Whether you dream of an intimate lakeside ceremony or a mountaintop elopement, we know all the best spots to get married in Banff. If you’re looking for more inspiration on where to say “I do,” look at our favourite elopement locations in Banff National Park. And if you want to chat about how we can help capture your special day, feel free to reach out to us anytime!

a couple riding in a red canoe on blue waters while they get married in Banff | how to get married in banff

Step 1: Get Your Alberta Marriage License

The first step in figuring out how to get married in Banff is obtaining your Alberta marriage license. This must be picked up in person by both members of the couple before your wedding day, and you’ll each need to bring two pieces of valid ID. The license costs approximately $100 CAD.

If you’re already in town, Banff’s registry office accepts drop-in visits during regular business hours. You can check their hours here. Canmore also offers licenses, but it’s by appointment only, which you can learn more about how to book through their website.

Traveling from elsewhere in Alberta? No problem. You can pick up your marriage license from any Registry Agent across the province. Use this tool to find one near you.

For full details on what’s required, visit the official Alberta government page on getting married.

Pro Tip: Don’t leave this to the last minute! Some registries may have limited hours or booking availability, especially in peak wedding season.

Unsure of how big or small you want your wedding to be? No problem – check out our blogs on whether elopement is for you and how to include your family in your elopement.

Step 2: Choose Your Officiant (or Appoint a Loved One)

In Alberta, your ceremony must be led by a legally authorized officiant, and you’ll need two witnesses to make it official.

One special option in Banff? A friend or family member who lives in Canada can apply to become a Temporary Marriage Comissioner just for your day. This allows someone close to you to legally perform the ceremony. Such a special way to make your elopement truly personal. Just note: they must be a permanent resident of Canada. You can learn more and apply through the Alberta Temporary Marriage Commissioner program.

If that’s not the route for you, there are many experienced local officiants in Banff who know the ins and outs of mountain weddings and can help you navigate the legal details with ease.

a bride and groom under the veil while they get married in Banff

Step 3: Pick the Perfect Ceremony Location

One of the most exciting parts of planning a Banff wedding is choosing where to say “I do.” Whether you prefer a sweeping mountain vista or a quiet lakeside ceremony, Banff National Park offers unforgettable views.

Some of our favourite wedding locations include:

Lake Louise – Known for its turquoise water and alpine backdrop.
Bow Falls – A dramatic waterfall perfect for adventurous couples.
Tunnel Mountain – Easy to access with panoramic views.
Two Jack Lake – Peaceful and ideal for smaller, intimate ceremonies.

Planning Tip: If you’re getting married within Banff National Park, you’ll need a wedding ceremony permit. It’s generally free (though a refundable damage deposit is required), and allows up to 20 participants (including your vendors like officiant, photographer, and videographer). You can find all the details and apply through Parks Canada here.

Participants must follow national park regulations at all times to help protect this beautiful space for everyone.

If your wedding includes more than 20 people, you’ll need to either book with a private venue or explore Town of Banff venue options listed here.

Remember, the size of your wedding will influence which locations are the best fit. Smaller elopements allow more flexibility, while larger gatherings may require additional planning for parking, seating, or permits — especially during peak seasons.

Need more location ideas? Check out our guide to the best places to elope in Banff.

Step 4: Choose the Right Season

Knowing how to get married in Banff means understanding the seasonal changes in the Rockies. Banff is a year-round wedding destination, but each season brings different vibes and logistics:

Spring (April–May): Quieter and budget-friendly, but many trails are still thawing.
Summer (June–September): Warm weather, lush landscapes, and long daylight hours—but also the busiest tourist season.
Fall (October–early November): Gorgeous golden leaves and fewer crowds, but less predictable weather.
Winter (December–March): Snowy, cozy, and magical. Just prepare for cold temps and potential road closures.

Quick Note: Banff is a protected national park, so it’s important to follow Leave No Trace principles and be mindful of wildlife—especially in spring, when trails may close to protect animals and their young. Always check Parks Canada updates before finalizing your date or ceremony location.

a bride and groom kissing on their wedding day with a stunning blue glacier lake behind them

a small wedding party gathers by a frozen lake with mountains in the background- get married in Banff

a couple turns to look at a red canoe while they get married in Banff

Step 5: Hire a Local Banff Photographer

Having a local expert on your team can make the planning process much smoother, and your photos unforgettable. As Banff-based photographers, we help our couples with everything from finding lesser-known ceremony spots to understanding permits and lighting.

We’re also happy to act as legal witnesses, which is often a big help for couples eloping or planning small weddings.

Working with a local photographer means you’ll get beautiful, authentic images—and someone who knows the Rockies like the back of their hand.

Guest Tips & Travel Info

If you’re inviting guests to your Banff wedding, here are a few practical things to keep in mind:

Nearest airport: Calgary International (YYC) is about 1.5 to 2 hours from Banff by car or shuttle.
Getting around: Car rentals, shuttles, or private transfers work well. Group transport can be a great help for guests.
Where to stay: Banff has everything from luxury resorts to cozy cabins. Book early during peak wedding season.
Park passes: Everyone entering Banff National Park (including your guests and any vendors) will need to purchase a Parks Canada pass. You can buy it ahead of time through the Banff & Lake Louise Tourism site or directly from Parks Canada. Passes are also available in person at the Banff National Park gate, which you’ll drive through on your way into town.

a bride and groom with wedding officiant getting married on a mountain beside a blue lake

Things to Do in Banff

Whether you’re planning a multi-day celebration or simply want to make the most of your time in the Rockies, there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences in Banff for you and your guests to enjoy. Here are some of our favourite activities to explore before or after your wedding day:

Ride the Banff Gondola
Relax at the Banff Upper Hot Springs
Explore Lake Louise & Moraine Lake
Go for a Scenic Hike
Visit the Banff Park Museum or Whyte Museum
Wildlife Watching
Take a Drive on the Icefields Parkway

Whether you and your guests are first-time visitors or seasoned mountain lovers, Banff offers something magical for everyone. It’s not just a place to get married—it’s a destination your loved ones will remember forever.

Looking to add adventure to your Banff wedding? Check out our list of 10 fun things to do for outdoorsy couples! Make your wedding experience unforgettable from start to finish!

bride and groom holding lanterns during their winter mountain wedding

bride and groom sitting my a frozen mountain lake while they get married in Banff

FAQs: How to Get Married in Banff

Can non-residents get married in Banff?

Yes. There are no residency or citizenship requirements to marry in Alberta, but you’ll still need to follow local laws.

How much does it cost to get married in Banff?

Here’s a general cost breakdown:

Alberta marriage license: CAD $100
Local officiant: $300–$1,000
National Park passes for guests and vendors
Venues: $5,000–$15,000+ depending on size and season
Photography packages vary—many (like ours) include scouting help, witness services, and permit advice

Does my photographer need a permit?

Yes! Photographers are required to have a permit to work within Banff National Park. The good news? As local photographers, we already have all the necessary permits and meet all the legal requirements to photograph your day anywhere within the park. We also know the rules and popular locations inside and out, so you can relax knowing everything is covered and good to go.

bride and groom sitting in a red canoe decorated with flowers

Ready to Plan Your Banff Wedding?

Now that you know how to get married in Banff, you can start planning your unforgettable day with confidence. Whether you’re eloping with just the two of you or inviting a handful of loved ones, the beauty of Banff makes every ceremony feel extraordinary.

If you’re ready to get married in Banff and want expert photography to capture every moment, don’t hesitate to reach out. Your mountain wedding awaits! If you want more behind-the-scenes, follow along on Instagram. We can’t wait to meet you!