There is something so magical about one of the first snowfalls in the Canadian Rockies and Sarah and Jordan had always talked about having the mountains snow covered for their beautiful elopement and they got their wish! We had done a series of engagement sessions every time I had come out to Banff to visit and they had winter and summer photos so we were hoping for a perfect blend for their fall elopement in the Rockies. Sarah and Jordan had a two day elopement after we went through everything they hoped to have in their elopement which included a ceremony with their closest family and friends, an adventure session to Yoho National Park and an adventurous hike elsewhere in the Canadian Rockies. With all of that we knew we could not fit everything into one day so we split it into two which is the perfect way to be able to do a lot without jamming an entire day so full you cannot enjoy it! If you missed their first day of their elopement check out the blog here!
After months of research and deciding where they wanted to hike for their Canmore hiking elopement we finally choose the Spray Lakes area for their hike. One of the best things about the Spray Lakes area is a lot of the hikes are not as demanding as they are in Banff National Park or further north and offer so many beautiful views nonetheless. The day finally came and the forecast was calling for light snow so everyone bundled up and headed to the trailhead down the Smith Dorian Highway, a dirt road that winds through Spray Lakes. We parked at the trailhead with Sarah's dress packed in her back and Jordans suit nicely rolled into his package, they put on their backpacks with their adorable Just Married sign and off we went up the mountain!
The weather was definitely cool and if you are hiking in the early winter (especially in the mountains!) here are some things you will want to consider packing for a winter hiking elopement:
- Hand + Toe Warmers
- Matching skin coloured fleece lined tights or leggings so you can wear them under your dress and it looks natural
- Extra pair of merino wool socks in case your feet get wet!
- Rain poncho to be able to throw on over your layers in case it rains
- Good solid base layers - I highly recommend using merino wool
- Warm hat / ear muffs and mitts as your extremities are always the first thing to go
- Snacks and water - even consider packing a thermos with a warm drink or soup to warm you up
As we headed up the mountain there was so many breathtaking views as we continued to climb we could not help but stop to take them in at every twist and turn. Once we got close to the summit we found an area of trees for shelter as the wind was beginning to pick up for Sarah and Jordan to change into their wedding clothes for their canmore hiking elopement!
Once they were changed they put their jackets back on and we headed to the summit to adventure and explore around and take in the wow worthy views. Enjoy this incredible Canmore Hiking Elopement!
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