Eloping in the Catskills in winter

Permits

Most trails on state land don’t need a permit for a small ceremony. Ask the forest ranger’s office anyway; they’re helpful and it takes one email.

Plan the warm place first

Book the cabin or the inn before the trail. Everyone needs somewhere to thaw by noon.

The light

Snow fills in the shadows, so faces look soft even at midday. It’s the one season we don’t mind a high sun.

What to wear

A long coat over the dress, wool socks, and boots you can walk in for forty minutes. Change shoes at the top if you want to; we carry them up.

How long it takes

Ines and Paul started up the trail at half past nine, read their vows at eleven and were drinking coffee in the cabin by one. Three hours is enough, and it’s what the elopement includes.