Denali National Park Elopement at the McKinley Creekside Cabins
Haley & Josh’s Denali National Park Elopement
The love story
Haley and Josh met back when they were in high school, and wow did hearing that hit my heartstrings! My husband and I also met when we were young, so stories like that always bring back allll the emotions from my own love story.
They were originally planning a destination elopement in Girdwood, but had to pivot their plans after already booking everything – not due to COVID, though, surprisingly! Haley’s schooling schedule ended up moving around, and their original elopement week was going to be right during her clinical week.
So they had to switch to a month earlier to avoid her been stressed out about that before & during the wedding! Which I’m so glad they did – because you definitely don’t want to be stressed as heck about school or work on your wedding day.
With their change of plans, they switched from their destination in Girdwood to an elopement in Denali National Park – and I totally believe that’s what was meant to happen!
The intimate wedding day
Two things Haley and Josh love most in life: being outdoors and their loved ones. So they combined the two by getting married in Denali with a super lowkey, laid-back intimate wedding with their favorite people!
They wanted to explore the park on their own first, to give them time to enjoy being together in private.
Their ceremony at the McKinley Creekside Cabins was so incredibly special – both of their vows were so sweet and full of emotion.
After making things official with just a few guests to witness it, they headed off to an intimate dinner & reception with their favorite people. It was the perfect way to end the day. Haley and Josh did first dances with their parents, ate some yummy cake, and toasted countless glasses with their friends & fam.
About McKinley Creekside Cabins
McKinley Creekside Cabins is located 13 miles south of Denali National Park. This makes it the perfect destination for a Denali National Park wedding.
The venue has tonssss to offer, including:
- A café & bakery
- A covered pavilion
- Propane heaters
- Firepit & firewood
- Outdoor bar
- Flexible catering options
- Cozy lodging for guests
Wedding packages at the cabins range from $500-$2000+, depending on your guest count, lodging preferences, the length of your wedding, & more.
The McKinley Creekside Cabins was THE most amazing venue for Haley & Josh’s elopement. From the setting to the decor, everything was really spot on and just fit the couple’s laid-back vibes perfectly. Highly recommend checking out this beautiful venue if you’re looking to get married in or near Denali National Park!
Getting Married in Denali National Park
If you’re loving this elopement and are considering getting married in Denali National Park, here are a few important things you’ll need to know!
You’ll need to get a Special Use Permit
Please be sure to obtain the correct Special Use Permit for your wedding in any national park!
For Denali, if you’ll have 5 or fewer total participants (including you, your vendors, & your guests) + minimal equipment, fill out this Special Use Permit application.
In addition, if you’ll have 6+ total participants or more equipment, fill out this application.
Submitting your application
You must submit your application a minimum of ten days in advance, but I highly recommend doing it as far in advance as possible to ensure you have plenty of time to obtain your permit!!
Here’s how to submit your application form:
- Fill out the appropriate form depending on your guest size (see section above)
- Print out your completed application
- Send your application to the address below, along with a check for $200.00 made out to the National Park Service:
Denali National Park and Preserve
PO Box 9
Denali Park, AK 99755
- You’ll received a permit in the mail if your request is approved.
- You must sign this permit & return it to the park for final approval
Prepare for normal entrance fees
In short, know that you’ll also need to pay the entrance fees even though you’ll have the Special Use Permit.
Alaska wedding vendors
Finally, check out the amazing vendor team that helped bring Haley & Josh’s vision to life!
Venue, Cake, & Catering: McKinley Creekside Cabins | @mickinleycreeksidecabins
Dress: Andersons Bride | @andersonsbride
Hair & Makeup: Nicki Ott at New Beauty | @nicki.o.makeup
Florals: Arctic Floral
If you need help finding your own dream vendor team, check out my blog post on How to Find and Pick Your Perfect Elopement & Wedding Vendors!
Alaska elopement resources
Eloping in Alaska and need some help with the whole planning part of it?! Check out the free resources below that I’ve got just for you!
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All the things you need to know about eloping in the beautiful state of Alaska written by a local Alaskan. From seasons, weather and clothing tips to marriage license information, recommended locations and so much more! Written by your very own Alaska Photographer.
Everything You Need to Know About How to Elope In Alaska
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