There are a lot of place to elope in Gatlinburg TN. After all, we do have a National Park that has over 522,000 acres of lush woods, daring streams, and quaint cabins. But with so many options, it is understandable that you may feel a bit overwhelmed by the idea of finding your dream location! That’s where I come in. As a Gatlinburg photographer and elopement planner I have to insider scoop on all the best locations! And I am sharing them with you!

Elopement Location VS. Elopement Venue

There are a few ways you can elope to Gatlinburg. But today we will focus on the two most popular. First, you can scout out an elopement location to get married. This is a designated ceremony site within the Smoky Mountain National Park. Then, there are actual elopement venues. These are like wedding venues, but the only difference is that they cater to smaller weddings and elopements as well.

Elopement Locations

An elopement location is a site in the National Park that requires a permit. This special use permit is less expensive than a venue, as it is only $50 application fee. As well, eloping in this manner offers more adventure and less structure. For more on Smoky Mountain wedding permits and planning visit their site here. Here are some of out favorite elopement locations:

Foothills Parkway

This is my most sought after elopement location, and for good reason! Endless views of the Smokies, winding roads, secret tunnels and so much more! There are an abundance of stunning backdrops along the 33 miles of parkway. And they are all conveniently off of the road side. This location is stunning but also adventurous while being easy to access. May just be the best place to elope in Gatlinburg TN.

See our gallery of Foothills Parkway here!

Cades Cove

A private valley with a great view of the Smokies and a grove of trees? Yes please! Cades Cove is a scenic one way driving loop which provides dozens of stunning backdrops of the mountains. Forests, fields, creeks, mountain views and even wildlife! You can find it all here! Although the location is beyond beautiful, be aware that since it is a one way driving loop, Cades Cove is notorious for traffic and congested roads. Plan ahead to ensure your Smoky Mountain wedding is as stress free as possible! 

See our gallery of Cades Cove here!

Greenbrier

Just north of Gatlinburg is Greenbrier, featuring bold river rocks and lush woods. There are three wedding locations available to reserve for a serene and glorious ceremony. then you can explore the paths for a more adventurous photoshoot. As a Gatlinburg wedding photographer I adore Greenbrier for a dramatic forest backdrop! There are an tons of backdrops that include rocky rivers, wooden bridges and of course lush forest-scapes.

See our gallery of Greenbrier here!

Ely’s Mill

If you are planning to embrace a woodland wedding, then Ely’s Mill is the place for you! Nestled in the woods of the Smokies, Ely’s Mill offers several sites along a creek for intimate wedding ceremonies. In addition, there is a pavilion option that seats up to 20 guests. However, it is important to note that the pavilion can get dark, so this is not an ideal option for an evening ceremony. You can consider saying your vows on the creek bed or on one of the trails, in addition to the pavilion. There is an additional fee for this location, which aids the maintenance of the the Mill.

See our gallery of Ely’s Mill here!

Elopement Venues

When you choose to elope in Gatlinburg, TN, at an elopement venue, you will have a bit more planning to do compared to an elopement location, but it will be so worth it! With amazing local vendors, wedding coordinators, and, of course, your favorite elopement planner (that’s me!) you will be well equipped to plan a simple yet stunning elopement! Here are our favorite venues in the area:

Harper’s Vineyard

This is an elopement venue that I love getting to work with! The grounds, the reception space, the crew. Everything about this venue is ideal and beautiful! And if you need just a few hours to elope in one of the most stunning venues in the Smokies, then this is it!  This vineyard hosts elopements Monday through Wednesday only, with a variety of packages to meet your needs as you elope to Gatlinburg in one of our favorite venues in the mountains.

See our gallery of Harper’s Vineyard here!

Spence Cabin

For a more intimate and woodsy elopement, something that hits all the iconic features of the Smokies, consider Spence Cabin. Escape from the hustle and bustle of nearby towns and elope in this private and quaint elopement venue. This location is stunning! From the stone-paved patio,  the babbling nearby river, and the mossy forest to the indoor cabin options and the featured stone fireplaces. You have to check this elopement venue out!

See our gallery of Spence Cabin here!

Mountain Mist Farms

Smoky Mountains’ favorite rustic barn with outstanding views! This amazing outdoor ceremony location features mountain views and a unique charm. There are many packages to choose from, including elopements and micro-wedding packages, which are perfect for my elopement couples!

See our gallery of Mountain Mist Farms here!

Ready to elope to Gatlinburg? Let’s start planning!