Elope in Big Bear, California
A dreamy mountain escape for couples who crave beauty, connection, and intention.
If you’re dreaming of pine trees, snowy peaks, or golden lake views—Big Bear might be your perfect elopement backdrop. Tucked in the San Bernardino Mountains just a couple hours from Los Angeles, Big Bear feels like a hidden alpine world, full of magic and peace.
At Wyld & Wander, we’ve photographed intimate weddings and elopements in all kinds of landscapes, and Big Bear continues to surprise us with its natural beauty and cozy mountain-town vibe. Whether you’re planning something quiet for just the two of you or inviting your closest few to celebrate, here’s everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable elopement in Big Bear.
Why Elope in Big Bear?
Big Bear is stunning year-round. You’ve got:
Snowy winter wonderlands perfect for cozy, bundled-up ceremonies
Golden autumn trails with crisp mountain air
Spring wildflowers and peaceful lake views
Summer sunsets over the water with golden light through the pines
Plus, you’ll find charming cabins, scenic trails, and quiet corners of nature that feel miles away from the busy world—while still being totally accessible.
Best Locations to Elope in Big Bear
Here are a few of our favorite ceremony spots and photo-friendly locations:
Castle Rock Trail – Short hike, epic views over the lake
Boulder Bay Park – Lakeside setting with giant rocks and golden light
Woodland Trail – Flat, forested, and full of filtered light
Snow Summit (off-season) – Ride the lift for panoramic mountain views
Cabin elopements – Rent a private Airbnb or VRBO with a gorgeous deck and pine tree backdrop
We’ll help you scout the best locations for lighting, privacy, and your vibe.
Permit Info
For eloping in public areas like trails or parks, you may need a special use permit from the San Bernardino National Forest.
If you're bringing chairs, florals, or an arch, permits are definitely required.
Locations like Boulder Bay Park fall under the City of Big Bear Lake and may have separate regulations.
Good news? We’ll help guide you through the entire process and handle the logistics.
Best Time of Year to Elope in Big Bear
Winter (Dec–Feb): Cozy, snowy, magical. Great for elopements with blankets, boots, and hot cocoa.
Spring (Mar–May): Quiet and crisp, with fewer tourists. Wildflowers and fresh pine air.
Summer (Jun–Aug): Sunny and warm with golden light and lake access.
Fall (Sept–Nov): Gorgeous foliage and that perfect autumn energy.
Tips for Planning Your Big Bear Elopement
Rent a cabin with a great view—it can serve as both your getting ready space and ceremony spot.
Layer your outfits! Even in summer, mountain evenings get cool.
Make a day of it: Add a post-ceremony picnic, a canoe ride on the lake, or a sunset hike.
Bring in local vendors for hair/makeup, florals, and a private dinner chef to keep it simple but special.
Keep your guest list tiny if you're eloping at public spots. We recommend no more than 10 people for most outdoor spaces.
Let Us Help Tell Your Story
We’re Meg & Melissa—two elopement photographers who live for these kinds of love stories. We’ll help you find the perfect Big Bear location, build a relaxed timeline, guide you through your vows, and capture every heartfelt, windswept, wild little moment.
If Big Bear feels like your place, let’s start planning your adventure.
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