If you’re dreaming of a wedding day that’s a little wild, a little messy (in the best way), and 100% about you and your favorite person, the Arkansas mountains are basically the perfect backdrop. Between the crazy pretty bluffs, endless forests, and sunsets that don’t even look real, you’ll find everything you need for an unforgettable, soul-filling elopement.

Let’s break it down step-by-step so you can start planning your Arkansas adventure without the overwhelm.

1. Pick Your Spot

First up: where do you want to say your vows? Arkansas is packed with places that seriously bring it when it comes to views. A few of my faves:

• Whitaker Point (Hawksbill Crag) — That classic “standing on the edge of the world” photo? Yeah, it’s here. Perfect for sunrise if you want that glowy, no-one-else-around kind of magic.
• Petit Jean State Park — Waterfalls, bluffs, and lush forest vibes. You really can’t go wrong here.
• Mount Magazine — The highest point in Arkansas, with some big open-sky energy. Also amazing for catching insane sunsets.
• Sam’s Throne — If you want total peace and seclusion, this one’s your jam.
• Richland Creek Wilderness — Waterfalls, swimming holes, and the kind of wild beauty you have to work a little to reach (worth it, though).

Think about the vibe you’re chasing: forest fairytale? Moody mountain overlook? Secret waterfall moment? There’s a trail with your name on it.

Learn more about the best places to elope in Arkansas here!

2. Time It Right: Sunrise vs Sunset

Alright, now that you’ve picked your spot, it’s time to think about lighting — because the mountains do not mess around when it comes to golden hours.

• Sunrise: Soft, pink, dreamy light. Also way fewer people. You’ll probably have the place to yourselves (plus the bonus of cooler temps if you’re eloping in summer).
• Sunset: Warmer tones, chill morning getting ready, and a slow buildup to a crazy beautiful golden glow.

Pro tip: Make sure you check which way your location faces. Some overlooks (like Hawksbill) are pure magic at sunrise, while others like Mount Magazine kill it at sunset.

3. Permits

A.K.A. the “Don’t get fined” section. Honestly, eloping in Arkansas is pretty simple — most places don’t require a permit if it’s just you two and maybe a handful of guests, no setups, no arches, no wild decorations.

BUT:

• State Parks (like Petit Jean) might want you to file a quick ceremony notification.
• National Forest lands (like Ozark-St. Francis) usually say you’re good to go as long as you follow Leave No Trace and keep it low-key.

Moral of the story? Always double-check with the park office or ranger station. A quick call now saves you major headaches later.

4. How to Get Your Arkansas Marriage License

The most important part of your day, in my opinion, is making it legal! Haha. Eloping couples have two options: get legally married before you elope, or make your elopement your legal marriage date. Here’s how to obtain your Arkansas marriage license for option #2:

• Where: You can grab your marriage license at any county clerk’s office in Arkansas — it doesn’t have to be near your elopement spot. Most counties even let you pre-apply online to speed things up, but both of you still need to show up in person to officially pick it up. (Worth it for one less thing to stress about on your adventure day!)
• When: No waiting period! You can literally pick it up and get married the same day (talk about instant gratification).
• What you need: Bring a valid photo ID (like your driver’s license or passport) and around $60 for the fee (some offices want it in cash, so double-check before you roll up).
• Age: Both of you have to be at least 18 (or have court-approved paperwork if younger, but that’s a whole different rabbit trail).
• Expiration: Your license is good for 60 days, so you’ve got some breathing room if you want to grab it early.

After your ceremony, your officiant will sign it, and you’ll return it to the same county to make everything officially official. (If you’re eloping super low-key and need help finding an officiant, don’t worry — I can totally point you to some awesome humans who get the vibe.)

Pro tip: Some smaller counties close early or don’t do licenses every day, so call ahead and plan a little buffer time into your trip!

Learn more about how to legally elope in Arkansas here!

5. Wear Something You Can Move In

Real talk: the mountains are not the place for a dress or suit you can barely walk in. You’re gonna want to run, twirl, climb, or at least scramble over a few rocks to get to those jaw-dropping spots.

• Dresses: Flowy is your best friend. Think fabrics like chiffon or tulle that catch the wind and won’t weigh you down. But of course – this is YOUR day, so you wear whatever your heart desires!
• Shoes: Hiking boots, cute sneakers, or sturdy sandals. You can always switch for barefoot pics or dress shoes once you’re there!
• Layers: Arkansas weather is basically: “guess again.” Bring a cute jacket, shawl, or cozy wrap just in case.
• Accessories: This is your opportunity to make your elopement a little bit more true to you – family heirlooms, bouquet, boutonniere, a veil, etc.

Bottom line: if you feel amazing and can adventure freely, your photos will absolutely show it.

6. Build a Chill Timeline

One of the best parts of eloping? Zero pressure to rush. Let’s make sure your day feels like an adventure, not a checklist.

Here’s a sample sunrise timeline:

• 4:00 AM — Wake up + coffee in the BnB
• 4:30 AM — Hair and makeup
• 5:30 AM — Leave for trailhead
• 6:00 AM — Start hiking (headlamps = yes)
• 6:45 AM — Get to ceremony spot, change into elopement outfits
• 7:00 AM — Vows + jaw-dropping first light
• 7:30 AM — Pop some champagne, breakfast picnic/snack, explore
• 8:30 AM — More photos, slow hike back
• 9:45 AM — Catch a waterfall??
• 10:30 AM — Get brunch (you earned it!)

If you’re doing sunset, just flip it and enjoy a slow, lazy morning before your adventure. Check out Jackson and Rebecca’s Arkansas elopement timeline here!

7. Tiny Extras That Make It Magical

• Pack a blanket: Snuggly photos? Yes please.
• Bring a mini picnic: Cheese, fruit, pastries, local cider. Go full romantic.
• Write personal vows: Nothing hits harder than hearing your person’s words in a place this beautiful.
• Bring your pups: Arkansas trails are super dog-friendly — just check the specific trail rules first!

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a big production to have a big, beautiful marriage story. The Arkansas bluffs and waterfalls are all about connection, quiet beauty, and that once-in-a-lifetime feeling you’ll keep forever.

If you’re ready to ditch the stress and say “heck yes” to a day that’s all about the two of you, I’m so here for it. Let’s start dreaming up your perfect Arkansas mountain elopement! Inquire at abbyreephotography.com