From the very first sentence Brandi and Cameron used to describe their vision, I knew this day was going to be something special. They didn’t want a big production. They didn’t want a packed timeline or a crowded venue. They wanted something intimate, intentional, and rooted in the things they love most — which is exactly why they chose a hiking elopement in the mountains of North Carolina.

Their sunset elopement at Pickens Nose Trail was the perfect mix of adventure and meaning: a quiet trail, epic mountain views, a first look on a rocky outcropping, and a ceremony that felt deeply personal from start to finish. Add in hiking in wedding attire, a post-ceremony cake picnic, and headlamps for the hike back down after dark, and you’ve got one unforgettable day.

If you’ve been dreaming about your own hiking elopement in North Carolina, this post will walk you through what their day looked like, why this trail worked so well, and what you should know if you’re considering something similar.

Why Brandi + Cameron Chose a Hiking Elopement

Brandi and Cameron were drawn to the idea of an elopement because they wanted their wedding day to feel intentional. No pressure. No expectations. Just the two of them, the mountains, and a moment that felt true to who they are.

Hiking plays a big role in Brandi’s life, so planning a hiking elopement felt like the most natural way to celebrate this next chapter. Rather than building a day around traditions that didn’t resonate with them, they built a day around experience — movement, stillness, laughter, and connection.

One of the most meaningful moments of the entire day happened quietly and without fanfare. Cameron has a child who wasn’t present for the elopement, but he gifted Brandi a ring that was chosen specifically from his child. It was a small, deeply emotional gesture that spoke volumes about the kind of family they’re building together — and it’s exactly the kind of moment that tends to happen when you strip away distractions and focus on what really matters.

That’s one of the reasons I love hiking elopements so much. They create space for meaning.

Getting Ready for the Day

Brandi and Cameron got ready at a cozy nearby A-frame, which set the tone for a relaxed, unhurried day. No rushing. No chaos. Just calm energy and anticipation.

Once Cameron was ready, he headed to the trailhead first. Brandi rode with me, giving her space to settle into the moment before seeing him for the first time.

This is one of those timeline choices I often recommend for hiking elopements — it keeps the first look intentional and gives each partner their own quiet space beforehand.

A First Look on the Mountain

We hiked in behind Cameron as the sun began to lower, and their first look happened on a dramatic rock outcropping overlooking layers of North Carolina mountains.

There were no distractions. No one else around. Just the sound of the wind and the kind of silence you only get on a quiet trail at golden hour.

First looks during a hiking elopement hit differently. When you’ve already moved your body, slowed your breathing, and intentionally arrived at a place together, the emotions feel amplified in the best way.

The Ceremony + Two Surprise Witnesses

Brandi and Cameron exchanged vows with the mountains stretched endlessly behind them. The ceremony was simple, meaningful, and focused entirely on their commitment to one another.

Because North Carolina requires witnesses, we found two fellow hikers who were more than happy to sign — a moment that always feels a little magical and very on-brand for a hiking elopement.

I also officiated their ceremony, which is something I offer for couples who want a streamlined, stress-free experience. Being able to help choose the location, plan the timeline, offer hiking and packing advice, and officiate allows couples to focus on the experience rather than juggling vendors.

Cake, a Picnic, and Soaking It All In

After the ceremony, Brandi and Cameron shared a cake and picnic right on the mountaintop.

This is one of my favorite things about hiking elopements — there’s no rush to move on to the next thing. You get to sit, snack, laugh, breathe, and fully absorb what just happened.

Their florals added a soft, romantic touch to the rugged landscape, and the cake felt like the perfect celebratory detail without overcomplicating the day.

Vendors:

• Florals: Local florist
• Bakery: Local bakery
• Dress: Blush Bridal — blushbridal.shop | @blushbridalnewbern

Hiking Back Down After Dark

As the sun disappeared and the sky shifted into deeper blues, we packed up and began the hike back down with headlamps lighting the trail.

Ending a hiking elopement this way feels adventurous in the most grounded way — a reminder that marriage is about navigating the unknown together, one step at a time.

This is also where planning and preparation matter most, which brings me to…

Pickens Nose Trail: A Perfect North Carolina Hiking Elopement Location

For Brandi and Cameron’s hiking elopement, we chose Pickens Nose Trail — a lesser-known hike near the Blue Ridge Parkway that delivers big views without big crowds.

Trail details:

• Distance: ~1 mile in, 1 mile out
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Best time: Sunset (trust me on this)
• Cell service: Very limited
• Crowds: Light, especially compared to more popular Blue Ridge Parkway trails

You can find the full trail details here on AllTrails:
👉 https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/north-carolina/pickens-nose-trail

Because this trail doesn’t require permits and flies under the radar, it’s an incredible option for couples who want a hiking elopement that feels secluded without committing to a long or overly strenuous hike. The rocky outcroppings at the top make for an epic ceremony spot, especially as the sun starts to dip behind the mountains.

No Permits, No Crowds, Just Intention

One of the biggest stressors couples worry about when planning a hiking elopement is logistics — permits, restrictions, crowds, and rules.

Pickens Nose Trail is refreshingly simple:

• No permits required
• No reservations needed
• No heavy foot traffic

That simplicity allowed Brandi and Cameron to stay fully present. We didn’t have to rush. We didn’t have to navigate around large groups. We could take our time, pause when the light was perfect, and let the day unfold naturally.

As always, we practiced Leave No Trace principles, stayed aware of our surroundings, and remained respectful of other hikers on the trail — something I help all my couples plan for when choosing a hiking elopement location.

Everything You Need to Plan a North Carolina Hiking Elopement

Planning a hiking elopement can feel equal parts exciting and intimidating — especially if you’ve never eloped or planned something like this before. From choosing the right trail and packing the essentials to figuring out timelines, permits, and what to wear, there are a lot of moving pieces that don’t always get talked about. This is where I will walk you through everything you actually need to know to plan a hiking elopement that feels intentional, stress-free, and true to you — without overcomplicating it or turning it into a full-blown production.

This isn’t a Pinterest-perfect checklist or an extreme hiking guide. It’s the practical stuff couples actually ask me about when they’re planning a hiking elopement — based on real days like Brandi and Cameron’s.

What to Pack for a Hiking Elopement

One of the biggest ways I support my couples is by helping them pack smart. For a hiking elopement, this usually includes:

• Headlamps or flashlights
• Extra layers (mountain weather changes fast)
• Comfortable hiking shoes (you can always swap later)
• Snacks + water
• A small backpack for rings, vows, and personal items

Planning a hiking elopement means packing a little differently than a traditional wedding day. Over the years, I’ve helped couples prepare for everything from sunset hikes to headlamp walk-outs, and I’ve put together a list of hiking elopement essentials I personally recommend. These are items that prioritize safety, comfort, and experience — without overpacking or overcomplicating the day.

👉 You can find my full Hiking Elopement Essentials list here: >> HERE <<

What to Wear for a Hiking Elopement

Yes — you can hike in your wedding attire.

Brandi and Cameron did, and it worked beautifully because:

• The trail was a manageable distance
• The weather was perfect
• Their outfits allowed for movement

I always help couples think through fabric, footwear, and layers so their hiking elopement feels comfortable and enjoyable — not stressful or restrictive.

Best Seasons for a North Carolina Hiking Elopement

Brandi and Cameron eloped in the spring, which is one of the best times for a hiking elopement in North Carolina.

Spring: Cool temps, fresh greenery, fewer crowds
Summer: Longer days, but warmer hikes
Fall: Stunning colors, higher crowds
Winter: Quiet and dramatic, but weather-dependent

This is one of the things couples worry about most when planning a hiking elopement — and it’s usually much simpler than it sounds. Each season has its pros and cons, and I help couples choose what aligns best with their priorities.

Planning a Hiking Elopement: FAQs

What is a hiking elopement?

A hiking elopement is an intimate wedding experience where couples hike to a scenic location—like a mountain overlook, alpine meadow, or remote trail—and exchange vows there. A hiking elopement usually includes just the couple (and sometimes a few guests), focuses on experience over tradition, and allows for a slower, more intentional wedding day.

Do you need permits for a hiking elopement?

It depends on the location. Some public lands require a special use permit for ceremonies, while others do not. Many lesser-known trails, like Pickens Nose Trail, don’t require permits at all. I help every couple confirm permit requirements and choose locations that fit their comfort level and vision.

How far do you have to hike for a hiking elopement?

There is no minimum (or maximum) distance. Some hiking elopements involve short, one-mile hikes, while others include longer or more strenuous trails. The best hike is one that matches your experience level, timeline, and priorities—not what looks most impressive online.

Can you hike in wedding attire?

Yes, many couples hike in their wedding attire. Lightweight dresses, flowy fabrics, and comfortable shoes make hiking elopements very doable. Some couples hike in boots or sneakers and change shoes at the top. I help couples plan outfits that allow for movement, comfort, and great photos.

What is the best time of day for a hiking elopement?

Sunrise and sunset are the most popular times for a hiking elopement because of softer light, fewer crowds, and cooler temperatures. Sunset hiking elopements often require headlamps for the hike back down, which adds a fun and adventurous ending to the day.

Are hiking elopements hard to plan?

They can feel overwhelming at first, but they don’t have to be. The key is choosing the right location, keeping the timeline realistic, and planning for safety and comfort. Working with a photographer who helps with logistics, location scouting, and timeline planning makes the process much easier.

Can you have guests at a hiking elopement?

Yes, but it depends on the trail and location. Some hiking elopements include a few guests who are comfortable hiking, while others are just the couple. Guest count, trail difficulty, and permit rules all play a role in what’s possible.

Do hiking elopements feel rushed?

Not at all—when planned well, hiking elopements are often slower and more intentional than traditional weddings. There’s no pressure to stick to a packed schedule, which allows couples to take their time, be present, and truly enjoy the experience.

Is a hiking elopement worth it?

For couples who value experience, intimacy, and nature, a hiking elopement is absolutely worth it. It allows you to celebrate your marriage in a way that feels personal, meaningful, and aligned with who you are—without the stress of a traditional wedding.

How does a photographer help with planning a hiking elopement?

An experienced hiking elopement photographer helps with:

• Location recommendations
• Permit guidance
• Timeline planning
• Packing and hiking advice
• Ceremony logistics

This support allows couples to focus on the experience rather than the details.

Is a Hiking Elopement Right for You?

If you value experience over tradition, intimacy over spectacle, and connection over performance, a hiking elopement might be exactly what you’re looking for.

Brandi and Cameron’s day was proof that weddings don’t need to be big to be meaningful — they just need to be honest.

If you’re dreaming about a hiking elopement in North Carolina and want help bringing it all together in a way that feels true to you, I’d love to help.

How I Help Couples Plan Stress-Free Hiking Elopements

A hiking elopement is about more than just showing up with a camera.

I help my couples by:

• Recommending locations based on experience level and vision
• Planning realistic, relaxed timelines
• Offering hiking and packing advice
• Officiating when needed
• Scouting trails and ceremony spots
• Helping navigate permits (when required)
• Making the day feel calm, intentional, and fun

My goal is for you to feel supported from the first planning conversation to the final hike back to the car.

Reach out HERE to start planning your hiking elopement now!!

A sweet review from Brandi + Cameron

Tessa was awesome!! When choosing to elope, we wanted it to be intimate and authentic to us but also have a little guidance and someone to capture our special day beautifully. Tessa was nothing short of fantastic!!! She was patient and determined to make sure our ceremony spot was everything we wanted!! Our hike was a blast and we felt very comfortable and at ease with her. Not only is she incredibly talented, but she is an absolute sweetheart as well!! We are in love with our pictures and memories of our perfect day!! 🤍