As Hudson Valley wedding photographers, Megan & Kenneth document elopements and intimate ceremonies across the region. Phoebe and Al chose a Lake Minnewaska elopement for their summer celebration. We could not wait to capture it. This Lake Minnewaska elopement began early on a clear summer morning at Minnewaska State Park.

Morning Light At Minnewaska State Park

The park preserve opens at nine in the morning, which gives couples soft early light. We met Phoebe and Al right as the gates opened for their micro wedding day. A Lake Minnewaska elopement at sunrise means fewer crowds and a calmer pace. It also lets us move through the park at a relaxed, unhurried rhythm.

Awosting Falls Sets The Scene For Elopement Portraits

Our first stop was Awosting Falls, a short and easy walk from the parking area. The trail down is quick, which makes it ideal for couples eloping on a tight morning schedule. Awosting Falls provides a stunning natural backdrop for intimate wedding photography. We love using this spot for elopement portraits because the water adds movement and energy.

Waterfall Portraits At Awosting Falls

Phoebe and Al were brave enough to step right up to the water’s edge. Some couples even take off their shoes and wade in for a few playful shots. We photographed them with the falls cascading behind them for a sweeping composition. Then we moved in closer to catch the light breaking through the spray.

Backlit Photos For A Lake Minnewaska Elopement

Getting close to Awosting Falls let us create beautifully backlit images with the water glowing behind the couple. The mist catches the morning sun in a way that feels almost cinematic. We also spent time photographing Phoebe and Al along the nearby stream. These quieter moments often become some of our favorite images from a Lake Minnewaska elopement.

Walking To Lake Minnewaska For This Elopement Ceremony

After finishing portraits near the falls, we walked together toward Lake Minnewaska itself. The lake is one of three sky lakes within the park, and its blue water is striking. Eight close family members met the couple there to witness the small ceremony. Choosing a micro wedding allowed Phoebe and Al to keep the guest list small and personal.

An Officiant For This Intimate Elopement

Dani from Once Upon a Vow officiated the ceremony with warmth and humor. She understood exactly what Phoebe and Al wanted for their elopement. The couple wove in references to Star Trek throughout the service, which had everyone smiling. Their officiant helped the short ceremony feel deeply personal and memorable.

A Time Capsule For This Micro Wedding

Rather than reading vows aloud, Phoebe and Al wrote private letters to each other beforehand. They placed the letters inside a time capsule along with a bottle of their favorite whiskey. The plan is to open it together on their first wedding anniversary. This kind of personal touch is common at an intimate Lake Minnewaska elopement.

A Lake Minnewaska Elopement Ceremony Begins

With the lake stretched out behind them, Phoebe and Al said their vows and made it official. Their small circle of family watched quietly, and the emotion in the air was easy to feel. Documenting moments like this Lake Minnewaska elopement is why we love working as Hudson Valley wedding photographers. Every micro wedding has its own rhythm, and this one felt unhurried and genuine.

Family Photos After The Elopement Ceremony

Once the ceremony ended, we gathered everyone for a few quick group photographs. Eight guests made for a relaxed session with plenty of laughter between frames. Group photos at a micro wedding tend to move faster since the list is short. We finished within a few minutes and let the celebration continue.

Brunch After An Intimate Elopement Celebration

After saying goodbye to family, Phoebe and Al headed to Inness for a post elopement brunch. We always love hearing where couples plan to celebrate after their ceremony. A relaxed meal is the perfect way to close out an intimate wedding day. It gave the couple time to unwind before returning to regular life.

Why Minnewaska State Park Suits Small Weddings

Minnewaska State Park Preserve sits along the Shawangunk Ridge in Ulster County, New York. The ridge rises more than two thousand feet and is surrounded by rocky, dramatic terrain. The park preserve also includes several waterfalls, three sky lakes, and dense hardwood forest. These varied landscapes give us plenty of options for a Lake Minnewaska elopement in a single morning.

Trails Worth Exploring At Minnewaska State Park

Beyond the falls and the lake, the park offers thirty five miles of carriage roads. There are also fifty miles of footpaths for hiking and walking through the preserve. Couples planning a Lake Minnewaska elopement can easily add an extra trail stop to their timeline. As Hudson Valley wedding photographers, we enjoy scouting these paths for fresh locations.

Planning Your Own Lake Minnewaska Elopement

Vehicle entry costs ten dollars for groups under fifteen people. Larger groups must contact the visitor center in advance. Couples hosting a ceremony for a Lake Minnewaska elopement must secure a special event permit. The permit carries a two hundred dollar site fee.

Park Rules For Your Minnewaska State Park Visit

There are no trash cans throughout the preserve, so visitors must carry out everything they bring. Drones and amplified music are not permitted anywhere in the park. Alcohol and glass containers are also restricted, so plan refreshments accordingly. Dogs are welcome on a leash under six feet but are kept away from beaches and bathing areas.

Minnewaska State Park Hours For Elopement Days

Minnewaska State Park Preserve opens at nine in the morning and closes at nine at night in peak season. Closing times shift with the seasons, so it helps to check ahead before a visit. An early morning start, like the one Phoebe and Al chose, gives the best light. It also helps couples avoid the larger crowds that arrive later in the day.

Why We Love Photographing Lake Minnewaska Elopements

As a Beacon based photography team, we are lucky to have this park so close to home. Every Lake Minnewaska elopement we photograph feels a little different from the last. The mix of waterfalls, cliffs, and lake views gives each couple a unique visual story. We approach every small wedding with the same care we bring to larger celebrations.

Plan Your Own Minnewaska Elopement

Phoebe and Al’s day reminded us why intimate ceremonies hold so much meaning. A small guest list does not mean a small amount of love or detail. If you are considering an elopement or micro wedding in the Hudson Valley, this park is worth exploring. We would love to help you plan and document your own Lake Minnewaska elopement.