Nestled in the heart of Wyoming, the Tetons draw couples from all over with their towering peaks, pristine lakes, and awe-inspiring beauty that sets the stage for a truly unforgettable wedding. But with four distinct seasons gracing this mountainous wonderland, and with many couples choosing to get married here from out of state, choosing the perfect time to exchange vows can be a dilemma! After three years of photographing weddings in Jackson Hole, and having grown up in this beautiful place with a front row seat to the changing seasons of the Tetons, I’ve compiled all my notes from the past few years.
So, what is the best season to have your perfect Jackson Hole wedding?
Spring: Wildflowers and Renewal
Dreaming of fields filled with lush greens and wildflowers? As the snow begins to melt and the wildflowers awaken from their winter slumber, spring paints GTNP with hues of green and bursts of vibrant colors. Blooming meadows and snow-capped peaks create a breathtaking backdrop for a spring wedding in Tetons. The air is crisp, the wildlife is active, and the promise of new beginnings is woven into the very fabric of the landscape! Because of the altitude, spring starts later in Wyoming than many states. Mid-June to July would be your months if you want wildflowers and for minimal snow. It can be rainy in the afternoons, but generally clears up by the evening.
Pros:
- Blooming wildflowers add a touch of romance
- Milder temperatures create a comfortable atmosphere
- Waterfalls swell with the melting snow
- Less tourists as busy season starts
Cons:
- Unpredictable weather; occasional late snowfall and evening showers
- Can be chilly
Summer: Warm Days and Starlit Nights
Summer in the Tetons is a celebration of life. Lush greenery, warm temperatures, and extended daylight hours create a magical setting for weddings! August and September will be your dream months. Whether exchanging vows in a meadow, by a lake, or beneath a canopy of trees, summer allows couples to embrace the full spectrum of outdoor options, and you can end your wedding night under the stars.
Though there can still be short bursts of evening showers, the days are much warmer and usually completely clear. The big thing to be aware of is that these months do come with more tourists and potential wildfire smoke hazing out the Tetons. For sunrise elopements, these are the main two months you won’t freeze in those early hours!
Pros:
- Warm temperatures perfect for outdoor ceremonies and receptions
- Abundant outdoor activities for pre- or post-wedding adventures
- Long, golden hours for stunning sunset ceremonies
Cons:
- Busier tourist season; popular sites may be crowded
- Wildfire smoke can block the Tetons
- Mosquitoes
Fall: A Tapestry of Colors
As autumn sets in, the Tetons transform into a masterpiece of warm tones and golden hues. The crisp mountain air is so refreshing after the heat of summer, and the stunning contrast between the changing leaves and the rugged peaks makes for a captivating and romantic atmosphere for a wedding. There are areas that just look like they’re on fire because of the brightness of the foliage in the aspens! Fall in the Tetons will typically start the second to last week of September and go into the first week of October, and fall colors will vary depending on the area of the park you are in. This can be the DREAMIEST time to get married if you time those colors right, and you will have nearly no tourists in the park compared to summer.
Pros:
- Stunning fall foliage provides a naturally beautiful backdrop
- Cooler temperatures are ideal for comfortable celebrations
- Fewer tourists than other seasons
- Most wildfire smoke cleared up compared to summer
Cons:
- Potential for early snowfall, particularly in late fall
- Fall colors don’t last long in many areas of the park
- Sunsets to the side, making for photos slightly more harshly lit
Winter: A Wonderland of Snow
For those seeking a fairytale winter wedding, the Tetons offer an idyllic snow-draped wonderland that exudes tranquility and elegance. From mid November to the last week of April, sparkling snowflakes, frozen lakes, and the quiet majesty of snow-covered peaks create a magical ambiance that is perfect for couples who dream of a cozy, intimate celebration! Depending on the winter month you choose, you may have temperatures in the single digits (or negatives), but there are plenty of cozy and elegant venues to have your ceremony in so your honeymoon can be a ski trip. Winter road closures in the Tetons last from November until the first week of May.
Pros:
- Snow-covered landscapes create a serene atmosphere
- Cozy indoor venues with fireplaces add to the intimate feel
- Unique winter activities for adventurous couples
- Minimal Tourists
Cons:
- Cold temperatures may limit outdoor options
- Many roads and locations in the park closed until the first of May
It’s all on your dream vision for the perfect day.
In the end, the best season to get married in the Tetons depends on your personal preferences and the atmosphere you envision for your special day! Whether it’s the deep greens and florals of spring, the glowy warm days of summer, the tapestry of fall colors, or the peacefulness of a winter wonderland, the Tetons will undoubtedly provide a breathtaking backdrop for the beginning of your happily ever after.
You’ve thought of everything!