Berg Lake Backpacking elopement
Berg Lake Backpacking Elopement | Hannah & Cole’s 24km Hiking Wedding
When Hannah and Cole told me they wanted a Berg Lake backpacking elopement, I knew it would be unforgettable. These two are seasoned backpackers who have explored Africa, Turkey, and Southeast Asia together. It only made sense that their wedding day would feel like their greatest adventure yet. We were so lucky that the trail in Mount Robson reopened just a month before we had booked to hike it. It had been closed since 2021 from a massive flood that washed out bridges and campgrounds. It was incredible to be some of the first hikers to set foot on the trail again.
Helicopter Into Berg Lake | The Ultimate Backcountry Start
We began their Berg Lake backpacking elopement with a helicopter ride from Robson Helimagic into Mount Robson Provincial Park. Flying over glaciers and alpine ridgelines before landing near Berg Lake is an experience in itself. It instantly sets the tone: this isn’t a traditional wedding day—it’s an expedition.
We spent the afternoon setting up camp, wandering the shoreline, exploring the campground, and capturing portraits with Mount Robson towering behind them and the classic turquoise water that the mountains are known for. They even jumped in the water for a brief cold dip to prep the muscles for our hike out!
Sunset Vows on a Rockpile Above Berg Lake
After the relaxed pace of the afternoon, we climbed a rugged rockpile overlooking the lake for sunset. The rain clouds wetre threatening so we found a large rock with an overhang to tuck under and keep dry. Luckily, the sky opened up for a perfect sunset. The alpenglow hit the mountains in soft pinks and golds as Hannah and Cole exchanged private vows. Having the whole lookout to ourselves made everything so quiet, emotional, and wildly beautiful. Exactly what a Berg Lake backpacking elopement is meant to feel like.
A Rainy Sunrise & 24km Hike to Emperor Falls
We had planned sunrise photos, but the weather had other plans. Rain poured steadily throughout the night and into the morning, so we opted to sleep in rather than wake up at the crack of dawn. Instead of disappointment, there was laughter and hot coffee shared under rain jackets. Proof that adventure always includes a little unpredictability. We packed up camp and left after breakfast for the long hike out, knowing there were some great photo opportunities along the way.
Our hike out totaled 24km in one day, with stunning views the entire way. We stopped at Emperor Falls for dramatic portraits in the mist of the thundering waterfall. Hannah really wanted a waterfall included in their day and I can honestly say, Emporer might just be the best waterfall around.
Why Choose a Berg Lake Backpacking Elopement?
A Berg Lake backpacking elopement is more than a ceremony—it’s a fully immersive adventure. When you choose to hike into your wedding location (or fly in and hike out like Hannah and Cole), every step becomes part of the story.
There are no timelines dictated by venues, no crowds watching, no distractions. Just the rhythm of the trail, shared snacks, changing light, and the kind of quiet connection that only wilderness brings. The effort of hiking, the unpredictability of mountain weather, and the remoteness of the landscape create a wedding day that feels earned and unforgettable.
For couples who love hitting the backcountry and exploring, a Berg Lake backpacking elopement transforms your wedding into an special experience you’ll talk about for the rest of your lives. Explore my Banff elopement photography packages if this sounds like your dream day, and check out my hiking elopement packing checklist. Interested in hearing some other fun ways to spend your wedding day? Have a look at these adventure elopement ideas for more inspiration.
For more backcountry fun, see this Backcountry elopement at Mount Assiniboine.
