Today I am featuring a Great Smoky Mountain elopement at Cataract Falls. In late October, tourists come from all over to visit the national park and I don’t blame them. Autumn in the Smokies is my favorite time of year. This blog is for my nature loving brides planning their intimate elopement in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
Eloping in Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Sarah-Grace and Tanner chose Cataract Falls, a quiet trail nestled within the Smoky Mountain National Park, as their elopement ceremony location. A short walk through the forest leads to one of nature’s humble backdrops, a 40 ft. waterfall quietly flowing over the mountain’s side.
During their short, yet meaningful ceremony, they spoke their vows, exchanged rings, and shared many joyful tears as they finally became Mr. and Mrs. Kissel.
How to elope in the Great Smoky Mountains
Did you know Gatlinburg is ranked as the second most popular elopement destination in the United States? It’s true! With the growing popularity, let’s talk about what you need to know if you’re choosing to elope in Gatlinburg.
- Choose your location: Start by choosing from one of the parks officially designated ceremony locations.
- Mountain Views – Foothills Parkway, Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook, or Clingmans Dome (highest point in the park).
- Historic Locations – Cades Cove is a scenic loop with historical churches, mountain backdrops, and open fields.
- Rivers and Gorgeous Forests – Cataract Falls or Greenbrier
- Private Location – If you want to avoid locations open to the public that are heavily visited by tourists, consider Spence Cabin or Ely’s Mill.
- Purchase Your National Park Permit: Permits are $50 and can be purchased through the National Park Service page. Permits may be secured at minimum of 14 days before your ceremony. Although it is highly recommend to select your location and secure your permit within 2 months to 1 year before your desired elopement date. Due to popularity, locations book up quickly so make sure you get this secured as soon as possible.
Let’s Work Together!
If you decide to you would like to work together, I will purchase the permit for us. That’s one less thing for you to have to worry about! I’m happy to take this on for you! You can reach out to see if your 2027 or 2028 date is available through my contact form! I look forward to seeing your name in my inbox!
- Make It Legal: Make sure you have an officiant and your marriage license (with you are your ceremony). You can pick up your marriage license at the Sevier County Clerk for convenience.
- Follow the State Park Rules: Protect the park by following these strictly enforced rules.
- Keep the guest and vendor count to 25 guests or less. Limit the amount of vehicles to 6 by car pulling.
- No chairs, arches, amplified music, or setups are allowed within the park. Who needs it when we have the natural beauty of the Smokies?
- Leave No Trace – No throwing of confetti, rice, or flower petals is permitted. Whatever you bring with you must be cleaned up and taken out of the park. As my mother says, “We want to leave it better than we found it.”
The wedding attire they chose was a perfect example for fall elopement inspiration. The neutral beige suit pairs so well with nature’s browns and greens because it doesn’t overpower the setting. I loved Tanner’s tie! Also, is it just me or does Sarah-Grace look similar to Margot Robbie? Like, hello?! Stunning!
Although the trail is open to the public, hikers are so respectful when it comes to avoiding being in the background of photos. Similarly, we make way for hikers to pass so everyone can enjoy their time within the park. Tennessee is sweet like that.
You never know what Tennessee weather might bring. I always have a few clear umbrellas just in case. We decided to use them for a few cute shots even though it was barely sprinkling. We loved these!
Tennessee Elopement Photographer
If there’s one thing I love, it’s Great Smoky Mountain elopements. Sharing my couple’s love stories with you is one way I can help you as you plan your elopement. From ceremony locations to wedding attire, these blogs are here to inspire you! If you are looking for more Smoky Mountain elopement ideas check out this blog, Cataract Falls Summer Elopement: Smoky Mountain National Park.
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