Big Bear, CA

Elopements can be whatever you want them to be—whether it’s a simple, quiet moment shared between two people in love or a small, intimate gathering with your closest family and friends. The beauty of eloping is that it’s your day, your way. Bluff Lake Reserve in Big Bear, CA, was the perfect choice for Chrissy and Eli. It was local, simple yet stunning, and filled with breathtaking scenery at every turn. If you’re looking for a peaceful, picturesque place to exchange vows, this hidden gem might be just what you’re searching for.

Best Time to Elope

Bluff Lake is at its most stunning between May and November, offering the ideal weather for an outdoor ceremony. During this time, the trails are clear, and the vibrant greenery creates a magical atmosphere. If you’re a fan of a winter wonderland, eloping after the snow has fallen adds a breathtaking charm, making the scenery even more romantic.

Chrissy & Eli’s Elopement – August 2024

Last August, I had the incredible privilege of capturing Chrissy and Eli’s elopement at Bluff Lake. They fell in love with the location, and it’s easy to see why. The trail leading to the lake is an easy and enjoyable walk, making it accessible for couples who want both adventure and comfort on their special day.
Chrissy and Eli came prepared, wearing hiking boots for ease and comfort. Chrissy still looked absolutely stunning in her wedding dress, carrying a simple yet charming bouquet that added a delicate touch to the natural surroundings. We started with portraits as we made our way through the trail, capturing moments amidst the breathtaking scenery.

Along the way, they found a cute, mini toad, adding a fun and unexpected moment to their adventure. They also climbed some big rocks in the middle of the meadow, embracing the natural beauty around them. One of our favorite stops was in front of an old wooden cabin built in the late 1800s, where we took some truly timeless photos, blending history with their love story.

When we arrived at a stunning viewpoint overlooking the lake, they exchanged heartfelt vows, with the water mirroring the sky behind them—a truly magical sight. After their first kiss as a married couple, I gave them a quiet moment to soak in the beauty of the moment. We then continued along the trail, taking photos of them walking hand in hand, basking in the joy of their newlywed bliss.
We wrapped up the session just before sunset, with the golden light filtering through the trees, creating a dreamy, ethereal glow—an unforgettable end to a perfect day.

Trail Details
Trail Type: Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 2 miles
Elevation Gain and Loss: 50 feet, -50 feet
Trailhead Coordinates: 34.223660, -116.965441
Location: Big Bear Lake, California
Season: May – November

https://wildlandsconservancy.org/preserves/blufflake

https://www.outdoorsocal.com/posts/bluff-lake

Why Choose Bluff Lake for Your Elopement?
Secluded & Intimate: Far from the crowds, it provides the perfect private setting for a romantic ceremony.
Scenic Variety: From the towering trees to the reflective lake and peaceful trails, every step offers a new breathtaking backdrop.

Easy Access: The trail is gentle and easy to navigate, allowing couples to focus on their special day without the stress of a strenuous hike.

Perfect Lighting: Whether in the golden hour before sunset or the soft morning light, the natural surroundings enhance every photo.

Bluff Lake Reserve Information
Reserve Hours: 9 AM to 6 PM (Open seasonally, typically May 1 to November 1)
Admission: Free
Leave No Trace

Pack it in, Pack it out. Take any trash you make with you.
Leave What You Find. Allow others a sense of discovery by leaving rocks, plants, archaeological artifacts, and other objects of interest as you find them.

Respect Wildlife. Learn about wildlife through quiet observation. Do not disturb wildlife or plants just for a “better look.” Observe wildlife from a distance so they are not scared or forced to flee.
Be Considerate of Others. One of the most important components of outdoor ethics is to maintain courtesy toward other visitors. It helps everyone enjoy their outdoor experience.

(Principles courtesy of Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics.)

Make Your Elopement Your Own
Bluff Lake isn’t just a beautiful place to elope—it’s a canvas for you to create the day of your dreams. Before heading to the lake, consider getting ready at a cozy Airbnb cabin, capturing those special pre-wedding moments in a warm, intimate setting.

Bluff Lake also offers picnic benches, making it a great spot for a post-ceremony picnic. Whether you want a private lunch or dinner for just the two of you, or you’re inviting a small group of family and friends, you can make your elopement exactly what you want it to be.

So, what does your dream elopement look like? If you were to elope at Bluff Lake, what would you do differently? Based on the photos and stories shared here, can you see yourself saying “I do” in this stunning setting?