Imagine exchanging your vows on a quiet shoreline, hiking to a breathtaking lookout, paddling across a peaceful lake, or ending your wedding day beneath a sky full of stars. Ontario offers some of Canada’s most incredible places to elope—but planning a day that’s both beautiful and meaningful takes more than simply choosing a location. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to elope in Ontario, from choosing the perfect setting and navigating permits, legal steps, to building a timeline that feels relaxed, adventurous, and completely your own.
Ontario Elopement Guide
Why Elope in Ontario?
In Canada’s largest province thousands of marriages take place every year across the province, but only a small percentage of people choose to elope in Ontario. So if you are considering having an elopement in Ontario I am so pumped for you! I eloped myself and know you probably have so many questions and that is what this guide is here to help!
If you are unfamiliar with Ontario, let me tell you there is so much beauty in this province your jaw will drop! With thousands of fresh water lakes, old-growth forests, towering cliffs older than the Canadian Rockies you have so many options it is often hard to narrow down where you want to go! I have explored all of Ontario and have so many hidden gems I love to share with my couples.
When you choose to elope in Ontario (or anywhere for that matter!) there are no rules! You get to craft a day that is perfectly tailored towards who the two of you are as a couple, plan all the activities that feel like ‘you’ and so much more and that is exactly what I want to help you with. Planning an elopement should not be stressful and thats where I am here to help. As your Ontario Elopement Photographer I have put together this guide on eloping to help get your started on navigating your adventurous elopement!
Why Trust This Ontario Elopement Guide?
Hey, I’m Nicole.
I’ve been exploring Ontario my entire life—from the shores of Lake Superior to the forests of Muskoka, the cliffs of Killarney, and countless hidden places in between.
As an Ontario elopement photographer, I’ve helped more than 100 couples create wedding days that feel authentic, intentional, and unforgettable. I also planned my own adventurous elopement, so I understand what it feels like to want a day that’s focused on your relationship instead of expectations.
This guide combines that firsthand experience with practical planning advice to help you create an Ontario elopement that’s completely your own.
How to get to Ontario
Ontario has tons of options when it comes to get to Ontario. Depending on where you are located here are your options:
Airports in Ontario
Ontario has several major airports that make it easy to reach from international and domestic locations:
- Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ): The largest and busiest airport in Canada, Toronto Pearson is a major hub for international flights. It serves as a gateway to many Ontario destinations, with easy access to downtown Toronto and nearby regions like Niagara Falls, Muskoka, and Prince Edward County.
- Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW): Located in the nation’s capital, Ottawa’s airport is ideal if you plan to elope in the eastern part of Ontario or explore the Ottawa Valley, Algonquin Park, or nearby wilderness areas.
- Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ): This smaller airport is located on Toronto Island, offering convenient access to downtown Toronto. It primarily handles domestic and some U.S. flights and is perfect for couples planning an urban elopement in Toronto.
- London International Airport (YXU): Located in southwestern Ontario, London International Airport provides easy access to the nearby Niagara Escarpment, Lake Erie, and other popular outdoor destinations.
- Thunder Bay International Airport (YQT): For elopements in northern Ontario, Thunder Bay’s airport offers convenient access to the rugged landscapes of Lake Superior, Quetico Provincial Park, and other wilderness areas.
Getting Here by Car
For couples who prefer road trips or are traveling from neighbouring provinces or the U.S., Ontario is well connected by highways:
- From the U.S.: Ontario shares borders with several U.S. states, making it easy to drive into the province. You can cross into Ontario from New York, Michigan, or Minnesota. Popular border crossings include the Peace Bridge (connecting Buffalo, NY to Fort Erie, ON), the Ambassador Bridge (between Detroit, MI and Windsor, ON), and Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge (connecting Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to northern Ontario).
- From Other Canadian Provinces: Ontario is easily accessible by road from Quebec via Highway 401, which runs between Toronto and Montreal. For those traveling from Manitoba or further west, the Trans-Canada Highway connects Ontario to other provinces, offering a scenic route through northern Ontario.
How to plan an Ontario Elopement
Planning an elopement is about so much more than choosing a beautiful location. It’s about creating a wedding day that reflects who you are as a couple. Unlike a traditional wedding, an elopement gives you the freedom to build a day around the moments that matter most—whether that’s hiking to a scenic lookout, reading your vows by a quiet lake, spending the afternoon canoeing together, or ending the night beside a campfire under the stars.
If you’re not sure where to begin, here’s the process I guide every one of my couples through.
Step 1 – Dream Up Your Perfect Wedding Day
Before you think about locations or logistics, think about how you want your wedding day to feel.
Ask yourselves:
- Do we want complete privacy or a few guests?
- Are we happiest on a mountain, beside the water, or in a cozy cabin?
- Do we love sunrise adventures or slow evenings?
- Do we want to hike, paddle, picnic, or simply relax together?
- What would make this day feel uniquely us?
The answers to these questions become the foundation for everything else.
Step 2 – Choose the Right Season
Ontario looks completely different throughout the year.
Each season offers something unique:
Spring: Waterfalls rushing, fresh greenery, fewer crowds.
Summer: Warm evenings, swimming, canoeing, wildflowers, epic sunsets.
Fall: Brilliant fall colours, crisp air, golden sunsets, fog on the water at sunrise
Winter: Snow-covered forests, cozy cabins, frozen lakes, ice caves.
Choosing your season often narrows down the perfect location.
Step 3 – Find Your Dream Location
Now that you know how you want your day to feel, it’s time to find a place that matches that vision.
Some couples dream of:
- Georgian Bay
- Killarney Provincial Park
- Algonquin Provincial Park
- Muskoka
- Lake Superior
- Bruce Peninsula
- A private Airbnb
- A secluded beach
- A quiet forest trail
This is where having a photographer who knows Ontario can make a huge difference. I help my couples narrow down locations based on privacy, accessibility, lighting, activities, permits, and the overall experience they want to create.
Key Questions to ask yourself while planning your Ontario Elopement
1. What Season Do You Want to Elope In?
Ontario’s seasons are diverse, and each one offers its own special charm. Choosing the right time of year is critical to shaping the experience and atmosphere of your elopement.
- Do you want warm, sunny weather, or do you dream of a winter wonderland?
- How comfortable are you with the cold or heat? If you love the idea of snuggling by a fire in the snow, a winter elopement might be for you. If you prefer a lakeside ceremony with sunny skies, consider summer or early fall.
- Is there a specific natural feature you want to highlight? For example, fall foliage in October can be breathtaking, while spring brings wildflowers and blossoming trees.
2. What Type of Setting Do You Envision for Your Ceremony
Ontario has a vast range of landscapes, from urban cityscapes to serene natural settings. Thinking about the backdrop for your ceremony is an essential step.
- Do you picture yourself exchanging vows on a lake, in a forest, or in the heart of the city?
- How private do you want your ceremony to be? If you prefer complete seclusion, a remote provincial park or less popular location might be ideal. If you’re drawn to a more vibrant, city vibe, venues in Toronto or Ottawa offer a stylish and urban feel.
- Do you want a rustic outdoor experience or something more luxurious? Renting a cottage offers comforts while being in nature or if its more your style back country camping is definitely an option!
3. How Adventurous Do You Want to Be?
Elopements are often about breaking away from tradition and doing something truly unique and personal. Ontario offers many ways to add adventure to your day.
- Are you up for a hike to a viewpoint for your vows? If so, consider eloping in places like Algonquin Provincial Park, Killarney Provincial Park or locations in Northern Ontario, which offer stunning views but may require some physical effort
- Do you want to incorporate outdoor activities into your day? You could go kayaking on one of Ontario’s many lakes, go snowshoeing or snowmobiling in the winter, or even have your ceremony on a private boat or helicopter tour.
- Are you looking for a laid-back, intimate celebration or an adventurous, action-packed day? This will help determine whether you want to spend your day hiking, exploring, or simply relaxing in a cozy cabin by a fire.
4. What is Your Ideal Guest Count?
Elopements traditionally involve just the couple and a few close loved ones, but you can adjust this to fit your vision.
- Will it just be the two of you, or do you plan to invite a few guests? Some elopement spots in Ontario can accommodate small groups, while others are perfect for just the couple.
- Do you want to combine your elopement with a reception for a handful of guests? In that case, finding a location with nearby accommodations and dining options, such as a lakeside cottage.
5. What Activities Do You Want to Include in Your Elopement Day?
An elopement in Ontario gives you the freedom to craft a day that reflects your unique relationship. Think about what special activities would make the day unforgettable for you.
How important are photos to you? Some locations are more accessible for photography than others. Discuss your vision with your photographer to ensure they can capture your day the way you want.
Do you want to spend the day outdoors? Consider activities like hiking, canoeing, or picnic.
Would you like to visit local wineries, breweries or explore the town after your ceremony?
How to Get Married in Ontario
Getting married in Ontario involves a few important legal steps to ensure your marriage is recognized. Here’s a detailed breakdown of everything you need to know, including how to get your marriage license and certificate, officiants, and legal requirements.
- Obtain a Marriage License
In Ontario, a marriage license is required for your ceremony to be legally recognized.
Here’s how to get one: Ontario Marriage Licence Form
Your marriage licence is valid for 90 days from the time you apply. - Where to Apply: You can obtain a marriage license at any municipal office in Ontario. Some cities allow you to book an appointment online. You can apply for a marriage license in any city or town, and it will be valid for use anywhere in the province. As of 2024 various cities are testing a Service Ontario digital pilot service to apply online before picking it up in person. You can find a list of those who are a part of the pilot project here.
- Cost: The cost of a marriage license varies by municipality but it averages around $150.
- Requirements to get Married in Ontario:
- Both applicants must be at least 18 years old. If you are between 16 and 18, you can still get married with written consent from both of your parents or guardians.
- You will need two pieces of government-issued identification for each person, such as a passport, driver’s license, or birth certificate.
- There is no residency requirement in Ontario, so non-residents can get married in the province without needing to establish legal residency.
- Officiants and Witnesses: To get legally married in Ontario, you must have an officiant who is registered to perform marriages, as well as two witnesses over the age of 18 present during the ceremony. *Your photographer can be one of your witnesses!*
How Much Does it Cost to Elope in Ontario?
That is up to you!
The cost of eloping in Ontario can vary widely depending on the location, services, and experiences you choose. Whether you’re planning a relaxed day at a cottage or an adventurous experience in one of Ontario’s stunning natural landscapes, here’s a breakdown of the potential costs to consider.
At bare minimum you will need your marriage license ($150) and an officiant ($300-600) to get legally married. But my guess is that you want something a bit more than that so you also are going to need to budget for accommodation, vendors and activities. After planning over 100+ elopements in Ontario alone the average elopement costs are on average around $8,000 to $20,000.
Some of the biggest factors when it comes to how much your elopement costs comes down to what you do and who you involve aka your vendor team! One of the benefits of working with me is I not only photograph your incredible day but also help you plan it including finding you incredible accommodations (that fit your budget), recommend vendors that align with your vision and budget and also help find activities you would love to do.
How to find the perfect Ontario Elopement Ceremony Location.
Choosing your ceremony location can feel really hard, but it doesn’t need to be. Start with what kind of backdrop you would love to have – is there a view? In a forest? On the water?
What kind of season do you envision the day taking place? Is the place really private or do you mind if there are people that happen to be hiking / walking by your ceremony?
Once you have the big vision picked out I am so happy to help narrow down everything and provide you with a ton of options to choose the perfect place to say I do!
Finding the Perfect Elopement Location in Ontario
Finding the perfect elopement location in Ontario comes down to your vision for the day and what kind of experience you want to create. Whether you dream of saying your vows surrounded by ancient forests, beside a stunning waterfall, or on a rocky cliff overlooking one of Ontario’s many lakes, this province offers a diverse range of natural landscapes.
Consider these factors when choosing your elopement location:
- Seasonal Weather: Ontario’s seasons vary drastically, from vibrant fall foliage to snow-covered winter wonderlands. Think about what kind of backdrop you want for your elopement and plan around the best season for it. Spring and summer offer lush greenery, while fall brings stunning colors.
- Accessibility: Some locations, such as remote trails or hidden beaches, may require a hike or special permits, while others are easily accessible by car. Consider whether you’re comfortable with an adventurous trek or prefer something more easily reachable, especially if you have guests or specific vendors attending.
- Activities and Scenery: Ontario has endless options for outdoor lovers. From Algonquin Park for canoeing and wildlife watching to Northern Ontario for more remote and breathtaking landscapes think about the activities that speak to you as a couple. Whether you want to paddle to a secluded island, exchange vows by a waterfall, or explore hidden caves, there’s a location for every couple’s style.
By thinking about these elements and what aligns with your dream day, you’ll be able to find the perfect Ontario elopement location that reflects your love story and creates unforgettable memories.
Top Places to Elope in Ontario
To give you some inspiration on some of the top places to Elope in Ontario I have broken them down by region. These are only just a few of the incredible locations you could elope in Ontario are there are truly thousands of options!
Northern Ontario
Northern Ontario is often looked over due to its distance from the majority of people, but the drive (or flight!) is so worth the trek into the beautiful North. With Northern Ontario spanning 88% of the land mass of the province there is so much to see and do and a major bonus is that there is less of a chance of having a ton of people in your chosen elopement location.
Locations to Consider for your Northern Ontario Elopement:
- Sleeping Giant Provincial Park
- Pukaskwa National Park
- Lake Superior Provincial Park
- Manitoulin Island
- Gros Cap Bluffs – Sault Ste Marie
- Killarney Provincial Park
- Sioux Narrows Provincial Park
- Ouimet Canyon
- A.y. Jackson Lookout
- Chutes Provincial Park
- Devil’s Rock Lookout
Best Times to Elope in Northern Ontario:
The best times of year for elopements in Northern Ontario are summer and fall. Although if you don’t mind the snow there are some absolutely incredible places throughout Northern Ontario that are breathtaking in the winter – think ice caves!
Check out these Northern Ontario Elopements:
Sunrise Hiking Elopement in Killarney Provincial Park
Winter Elopement in Northern Ontario
Winter Elopement at The Buffalo Farm
Muskoka / Georgian Bay / Kawartha Lakes / Haliburton
Cottage Country in Ontario is an incredibly popular area and its easy to see why! With most areas accessible to the Greater Toronto Area within 2-4 hours there are so many unique locations and adventures that are possible in this area. Known for its freshwater lakes, towering forests, scenic drives and the Canadian Shield the cottage country region (Muskoka, Georgian Bay, Kawartha Lakes, Haliburton, etc) offer so much for the perfect elopement location.
Locations to Consider for your Elopement in Ontario’s Cottage Country:
– Algonquin Provincial Park– Limberlost Forest & Wildlife Reserve
– Arrowhead Provincial Park
– Hardy Lake Provincial Park
– Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park
– Silent Lake Provincial Park
– Georgian Bay Islands National Park
– Killbear Provincial Park
– Hatchery Falls
– Huckleberry Rockpoint Lookout
Best Times to Elope in Ontario’s Cottage Country:
The best times of year for elopements in Muskoka are truly any time of year! There is so much to do in this area anytime of year.
Check out these Ontario Cottage Country Elopements:
Sunrise Elopement in Algonquin Provincial Park
Fall Elopement in Algonquin Provincial Park
There are so many incredible places to elope in Ontario this is only the tip of the iceberg. There are so many other options along little quiet lakes, under the pine trees in the forest, along your favourite hiking trail or anywhere that you truly love! Your possibilities truly become endless when you are looking at having a small wedding or elopement and I am here to help you find the perfect spot. If the places above don’t quite fit what you are looking for I have a master list of hundreds of incredible locations all throughout the province that I would love to help you find the perfect spot that really feels like the two of you for your elopement day.
Do you have a favourite place you would love to elope in Ontario? Let me know in the comments or send me an email so I can help you plan your dream day!
