New Hampshire is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes. The mountains, rivers, lakes, and most of all, its waterfalls. Glen Ellis Waterfall stands out as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the White Mountains. It's not just easy to get to, but it is constantly flowing no matter the water level. In this blog post, we'll explore the magical experience of getting married at Glen Ellis Waterfall in New Hampshire.
Trust me, there are some really important things you need to know!
About Glen Ellis Waterfall
Located in Jackson in the Pinkham Notch, is this hidden gem! Well, I can't lie, it isn't so "hidden" anymore. Just a short 0.3 mile walk from the parking lot is the stunning 66-foot waterfall and jade green pool. While being surrounded by evergreen trees, there is a small ledge that is perfect for your intimate vow exchange!
What I love most about saying your private vows by a waterfall is the seclusion feeling. With the water flowing right next to you, it's hard to focus on anything else but your significant other.
How to elope at Glen Ellis Waterfall
Choose a date and timeframe
Imagine as the sun is starting to peek over the trees and the light is hitting the water, exchanging your vows next to the flowing waterfall! Mornings make a beautiful time to elope at Glen Ellis Waterfall. The earlier in the day you visit, the less busy it will be! Glen Ellis Waterfall is open year around, however, you want to make sure you know which season would be best.
- Spring: As the snow melts and the temperatures rise, Glen Ellis comes to life with lush green foliage and roaring waters. You'll just want to be careful because sometimes the water levels can be a bit too high. The best time in the Spring is the month of May and early June.
- Summer: The peak of summer brings warm weather, ideal for an outdoor wedding. The waterfall's cool mist provides a refreshing backdrop for your ceremony. However, the summer is extremely busy and popular. I'd plan to go at sunrise if possible, and stick to the months of June and August.
- Fall: Autumn in New Hampshire is famous for its vibrant foliage, and Glen Ellis Waterfall is no exception. The rich hues of red, orange, and yellow create a breathtaking setting for a fall wedding. Keep in mind that this season is incredibly popular, so plan well in advance. Again, sunrise will be your best friend. The best timing is end of September into early October.
- Winter: If you're a fan of winter wonderlands, Glen Ellis Waterfall in winter is a magical sight to behold. The waterfall often freezes over, creating a unique backdrop for a cozy and intimate wedding ceremony. Just be prepared for colder temperatures and potential snowfall. Also, have a back up plan just incase. The ledge at the waterfall can be pure ice. The best timing is January and February if you want a winter wonderland.
Permits
Glen Ellis is located in the White Mountain National Forest. As of 2023, there are no strict permitting for the National Forest. Please be courteous and follow Leave No Trace principles while getting married in the park.
Deciding on Guests
The Ledge at the waterfall is extremely small and can only fit two people. This location is not suitable for larger guest counts. There is a small platform that a few guests may be able to stand on, but the viewpoints are difficult to capture.
I would recommend using Glen Ellis as either a photo location, or a private vow spot. Not a ceremony with guests.
Prepare for the weather or pivoting
The weather can dictate a lot of things at Glen Ellis, so it's important to prepare for the worst. Backup locations and making decisions on the fly may be necessary. This is why having a local photographer who knows the White Mountains is really important to making sure you're taken care of. Here are some ways to prepare:
- Have backup locations: The area may be flooded, icy, or way too busy. Have backup locations that you can go to instead planned beforehand.
- Plan for the rain: If you're saying your vows, I would wrap your vows in plastic or a way to keep them safe from the water. Also have umbrellas or ponchos.
Important things to know about eloping at Glen Ellis
Glen Ellis Waterfall is an incredible option for those looking to elope privately with just their partner, and maybe your dog(s)! There are a few things to know before choosing Glen Ellis as your location:
- The ledge is very small and can only accommodate you and your partner. No worries though, you can still have an intimate celebration with your closest people afterwards at an AirBnB!
- While the walk from the parking lot to the falls is short, there are stairs and rocks you will have to navigate. When eloping here, it is important to wear good hiking shoes while getting to-and-from the falls as the trail can be slippery when wet.
- In New Hampshire you have to have a licensed officiant to marry you, as an elopement photographer I am ordained and can sign your marriage certificate! Or I have some amazing officiants to recommend to you.
Glen Ellis Waterfall Inspiration and Stories
Morgan and Zachs Moody End of Fall Adventure
Morgan and Zach wanted to celebrate and get epic photos in the outdoors to announce their marriage. Since it was the end of October, the foliage was beautiful burnt earthy tones. We did a small hike up the mountain for gorgeous views, then ended at Glen Ellis to explore the waterfall.
Sam + Evan's Summer Rainy Elopement Day
These two had completely different plans than what we ended up with. The rain was not holding out for them, so we had to pivot. Originally we planned to have vast mountain views, but mother nature had other plans. We went to Glen Ellis Waterfall instead, where they exchanged their intimate vows together. Afterwards, we went celebrated with cupcakes and champagne. I showed them a beautiful field to get their mountain views at the end!
Carla + Michael's Summer Feel Fall Day
Carla and Michael are pure joy. They wanted a simple day where they could focus on one another. They opted for a Waterfall exploring day, visiting Jackson Falls and Glen Ellis. We took in the Fall colors, then ended at a field where they ate cupcakes and watched the sun go down.
A New Hampshire + Vermont based adventure elopement and intimate wedding photographer team for the adventurous souls. We specialize in New England and destinations worldwide, empowering you to create the most beautiful, adventurous day and give you the memories you'll be able to look back on for all the years to come.
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