How to Elope or Get Married on Matanuska Glacier in Alaska
If you’ve ever dreamt of saying “I do” surrounded by jaw-dropping ice formations, sweeping glacier views, and Alaska’s raw, untamed beauty — Matanuska Glacier is calling your name. Nestled just two hours from Anchorage, this accessible glacier offers the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable adventure elopement or intimate wedding. Here’s a step-by-step guide to planning your wedding day on Matanuska Glacier:
Step 1: Know the Basics
- Where is it? Matanuska Glacier is located in Glacier View, Alaska, off the scenic Glenn Highway. It’s one of the few road-accessible glaciers in Alaska, making it a dream location for couples looking to elope somewhere epic without a multi-day trek.
- Can you legally get married here? Yes! Alaska makes it easy. All you need is a marriage license from any Alaska Bureau of Vital Statistics Location (you can even apply online in advance), two witnesses, and an officiant. Andd yes —your photographr can double as your officiant in Alaska! (Hint: I’m ordained!)
Step 2: Plan the Season and Timing
- Best time of year: June through early September offers the best weather and access. Earlier in the season, the glacier is icier and more pristine; later, you may get stunning blue melt pools and dramatic textures.
- Best time of day: Golden hour near sunset (which can be as late as 10:30pm in Alaska!) is absolutely magical. You’ll get soft light bouncing off the ice and mountains for dreamy photos.
Step 3: Book a Glacier Tour Guide
You can’t just walk out on the glacier wihohut a guide—it’s a living, moving body of ice with crevasses and melt pools, and safety is key. Glacier tour companies at Matanuska Glacier offer private glacier hikes or even helicopter-access elopement tours. Let them know you’re planning a wedding — they’ll help coordinate timing, gear, and safe spots for vows and photos.
Step 4: Dress for the Ice
Wear layers sunder your wedding attire! Think fleece-lined leggings, wool socks, and insulated boots under dresses and suits. Flowy dresses look incredible against the ice, and a long veil can add drama in the glacier breeze.
Step 5: Bring a Photographer Who’s Done This Before
You’ll want someone who’s experienced with adventure elopements, Alaska weather, and shooting in icy conditions (hi, that’s me!). From scouting your ceremony spot to capturing windblown kisses and epic wide shots, hiring the right photographer makes a world of a difference.
Step 6: Keep It Intimate
Due to the terrain, most Matanuska Glacier weddings are best kept to you two and maybe a few loved ones. If you’re dreaming of something intimate, wild, and unlike anything else—this is the spot.
Optional: Add a Helicopter for Extra Magic
Want to level up? Some tour companies offer helicopter access to remote parts of the glacier or nearby alpine ridges for your ceremony and portraits. The views are unreal, and you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world.
Getting married on Matanuska Glacier is more than just a wedding—it’s an adventure. If you’re craving a day that’s meaningful, wild, and true to who you are as a couple, there’s no better place to exchange vows than on ancient ice beneath Alaska’s open skies. Need help planning your Matanuska Glacier elopement? I offer photo and video coverage, vendor recommendations, and elopement planning support to couples who want to ditch the traditional and do something extraordinary. Let’s create magic together in the Land of the Midnight Sun. Inquire with me here! :)
