Everything you need to know to plan your Mt Willard Elopement
If you’ve found yourself here, its probably because you’re looking to plan your elopement day off the beaten path and full of adventure in the mountains. There is something so magical about ditching the big wedding traditions and creating a day that is true to you. If this sounds like you, let me tell you about one of my favorite hikes in the White Mountains National Forest of NH: Mount Willard. Hi, I'm Caroleanne! I'd love to help you plan your dream day - reach out here!
The views of the stunning white mountains coming together creating the breathtaking landscape of the valley below that is Crawford Notch, is one of the most iconic views in the national forest. The reason this hike is so popular is quite obvious. Not only does it have beautiful grand views, but the level of hiking required makes it accessible to both beginner and moderate hikers, making this a good option for any nature lover. In this blog you will learn everything you need to know to plan your adventure elopement on Mount Willard in New Hampshire.
Things to know when planning your Mount Willard elopement
You don't need a permit to get married here - We are lucky enough to have access to the beauty of the WMNF without requiring a permit for you wedding day. This does depend on the exact location, but most locations that are open to the public don't require a permit. There are some that do, and things are always changing so it is important to do your own research before planning for a certain location. Currently it is not required to have any type of permit to get married on Mount Willard. Since we do have this amazing ability, it is very important that we do our best to leave no trace while celebrating up here. I know you’re here because you’re a nature lover just like me, so lets plan to respect the beauty this land has to offer and keep it available for us to enjoy!
It can be a popular hike so plan accordingly - I strongly recommend planning for a weekday, even in the winter this trail gets a ton of action so it’s always best to plan for off times. Now that we talked about time of week, let's talk about time of day. If you’re really hoping for ultimate seclusion I highly recommend considering planning for sunrise. There are so many pros to this in my opinion. First off, imagine starting your day with your loved one star gazing before the sun even comes up, then watching the sun crest over the top of the mountains as you vow your love to each other - now that is an unforgettable moment! Not only does this option provide the most seclusion possible for this location, it also gives you a golden hour glow. The sunrises right over the mountain next to the summit casting beautiful soft lighting over the valley below (pictured in photo above). (Yes this means hiking up in the dark). Okay, okay, you’re not a morning person? Thats okay you don’t have plan for an early start if you’re not open to it. The next best option would be to plan for sunset. I will give you a heads up the sun does set on the other side of the mountain so you wont see it actually go down but it does cast a glow over the mountains as it goes down (pictured in photo below).
If you’re hoping to plan a day where you and your partner want to hike but you also want to be surrounded by loved ones who don't hike, there are a handful of stunning beautiful locations nearby that are a bit more easily accessible. If you're planning your day with me I provide you with a full list of all my locations and will certainly help you find multiple locations for your day! - Book me here!
How to elope on Mount Willard - Preparing for the hike
Here are some tips to plan for your hike up for your elopement on Mount Willard. I always recommend going into it planning for a hike like you normally would, then adding in all the extras! Here is a tip, if you sweat a lot like me pack a hand towel to wrap around your neck and wipe sweat away while you hike. Another great tip to make sure you're both comfortable, plan for extra hike time. This gives you plenty of time to cool off and chill out at the summit before its time to get changed. I always plan for about an hour per mile going up. If we get up quicker that just means we have extra time up there.
Here are a few tips to consider when planning your Mount Willard Wedding
3.1 miles RT
Plan for sunset/sunrise
Hike in hiking clothes, change at the top (its all part of the experience)
Shoes/boots
Pack warm layers
Pack plenty of water/snacks
The pros of planning your adventure elopement on mount willard
There are plenty of easily accessible locations nearby if you plan to do something with family or loved ones who don't hike after. If you're my couple I have a whole location list and guide and will help you find some of these locations to plan your day!
The stunning views as your backdrop of this hike is a no brainer.
There are so many beautiful places to stay in the white mountains from Airbnb's to Inns, there are tons of fun places to make your stay more cozy. Again, hey if you're booked with me I have a whole list for your of all the best places to stay in each section of the white mountains.
Depending on the season there is so much to do here from hiking in the warmers months, to skiing, XC skiing, ATV rides, scenic drives, and so much more.
Looking to plan your Mount Willard Elopement!? Hey, I'm a local New Hampshire Elopement photographer ready to help you on your journey! Reach out here - Let's chat!
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