If you're searching for a breathtaking and truly unique way to tie the knot, this Lake of the Clouds elopement in New Hampshire's White Mountains is everythinggggg. Allie and Brian embraced the wild with a steep hike, a sunset ceremony surrounded by alpine peaks, and a spontaneous dip in the glacial lake, and a mountaintop slumberparty in a Hut! This is what mountain elopement dreams are made of.

Hiking to the Lake of the Clouds Hut

Our day began at the trailhead parking lot where I met up with Allie, Brian, and their two couple friends who joined them for the adventure. Spirits were high as we packed up and started the hike to the Lake of the Clouds Hut, nestled between Mount Monroe and Mount Washington.

The trail was nothing short of stunning—winding past mountain rivers, waterfalls, and dense forest before opening up above treeline. Once we hit the alpine zone, the views exploded into a panorama of rugged peaks and wide-open sky. It was one of those days where every step felt like magic. We even spotted the Cog on the way up!

Allie and Brian had booked bunks at the AMC hut months in advance (a must if you're planning your own Lake of the Clouds elopement). Once we arrived, we all dropped our packs in the shared bunk room, took a deep breath of that crisp mountain air, and settled in for what was shaping up to be an unforgettable evening.

A Change of Plans—For the Better

Originally, the plan was to hold the ceremony at sunrise the next morning. But welcome to the White Mountains—where the weather is always in charge. I checked the forecast and noticed the clouds were rolling in overnight, with much better visibility expected that evening.

I floated the idea of a sunset ceremony instead, and Allie and Brian were totally down. With just a couple hours to go, Allie and their friends constructed a bouquet with flowers they had hiked up, and quickly did their makeup. The energy was spontaneous, light-hearted, and full of love.

Mount Monroe Sunset Ceremony

As golden hour approached, we hiked the short but steep climb up to the summit of Mount Monroe, dress and suits in tow. Everyone got ready separately behind boulders and alpine rocks, transforming the summit into a rugged, natural bridal suite.

Then came the reveal!

Allie stepped out in her dress, and Brian’s reaction said it all—pure joy and awe. After playing rock paper scissors to see who went first, the two exchanged heartfelt vows overlooking Lake of the Clouds and Mount Washington. The clouds began to roll in, painting the sky in deep blues.

It was moody, intimate, and absolutely perfect!

Couples Portraits & A Cold Plunge

After their ceremony, we explored the cliffs for some stunning mountaintop portraits. The backdrop was unreal—layers of ridges, a hint of pink light, and that wild, untamed feel you only get high in the Whites.

As the light faded, we hiked back down toward the lake—and that’s when Allie and Brian made the ultimate move. Still in their wedding attire, they waded into Lake of the Clouds during blue hour, laughing and soaking in every second of their epic wedding night. It was bold, cold, and so insanely beautiful.

Camp-Style Celebration at the Hut

That night, we all gathered for dinner and dessert at the hut, then stayed up late stargazing by the lake, eating candy, and sharing stories. It was one of those simple, unforgettable nights that felt more like a sleepaway camp than a wedding—and that’s exactly what made it so special.

And thank goodness we switched plans—because sunrise the next morning was completely socked in! The descent was damp and slippery thanks to thick mountain fog, but everyone made it down safely, still buzzing from the magic of the night before.

Planning Your Own Lake of the Clouds Elopement

If you’re dreaming of an epic, experience-driven wedding, a Lake of the Clouds elopement could be perfect for you. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Book your stay early. AMC huts fill fast, especially in summer and fall. Link to book!
• Be flexible with your timeline. Weather changes quickly—having a photographer who knows the mountains helps a lot!
• Pack smart. Hiking boots, warm layers, and headlamps are non-negotiables.
• Bring your people (or don’t!). Whether it’s just you two or your closest adventure buddies, this spot is great for intimate celebrations.
• Embrace the wild. From weather shifts to last-minute game time sunset/sunrise decisions, the unexpected often becomes the most memorable part.

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Ready to plan your own Lake of the Clouds elopement? Whether you're dreaming of a mountaintop sunset, a hut-to-hut hike, or a dip in a glacial lake in your wedding clothes, I’d love to help you capture every moment of your mountain love story. For NH elopement resources, check out my guide here!