Many people come to the Flathead Valley specifically to elope in Glacier National Park, however there are countless other unbelievable locations in the Valley to say I DO. Many of these locations are along the shores of Flathead Lake.

The first time you see this lake, it is certainly a sight you will never forget. When you stand along the shores of Flathead Lake it feels more like an ocean.  It is the largest fresh water lake west of the Mississippi.   The massive size and beauty of Flathead Lake literally takes my breath away every time I see it! Some days the lake has 4 foot waves crashing onto the shores and other days it's smooth as glass, both creating dramatic views. 

Planning a destination elopement can be very stressful unless of course you are Jane and Nathan, quite possibly the most relaxed, go with the flow couple I have ever met.   

They had plans to attend their good friends wedding in Missoula so they thought "why don't we just elope while in Montana."  And  that is exactly what they did!

They live in Alaska, another breathtaking state, so I knew I wanted locations that would rival the sweeping views of the Last Frontier.  

They chose West Shore State Park as their ceremony spot.   A small state park along the pebbled shores of Flathead Lake.  The water levels are much lower in the fall than other times of the year, providing a beautiful rocky beach to exchange vows and an even more amazing place for photographs. 

But first, we decided to meet before the ceremony to capture some photos around the Lake.  One of the benefits of eloping outside of Glacier National Park is the lack of crowds.  Stop one on my list for best spots to take photos around Flathead Lake:  Somers Park.

Having lived in Alaska myself, this area was very reminiscent of the small towns that spatter the coast of the inside passage.  People were in fishing boats coming and going from the small port, a rocky outcrop filled the bay, and just like Alaska, we had the place to ourselves!