Jake and Hayley’s mountain vow renewal in Alabama Hills was a day centered around intention and connection to a place they hold close to their hearts. Fellow photographers, adventurers, and the creative souls behind Wander Love Captures, they planned a day that reflected everything they value: wide-open landscapes, quiet moments in nature, and the freedom to roam in their Tacoma, Wander Taco.

The morning began at sunrise, with warm pink tones lighting up the Sierra peaks behind them as they read their vows. After a midday break to rest and reset, we met again at golden hour for sunset portraits, capturing them in the dramatic last light as they ventured through the iconic rocky landscape of Alabama Hills.

If you’re dreaming of a similar day in this breathtaking landscape, be sure to check out my Alabama Hills Elopement Guide for all the details on how to plan your own celebration.

Mountain Vow Renewal in Alabama Hills

A Remote, Rugged Landscape on BLM Land

If you’re drawn to wide-open spaces and dramatic mountain views, Alabama Hills is a location unlike anywhere else. Nestled at the base of California’s Eastern Sierra Nevada, this remote stretch of BLM land offers a peaceful, untamed setting—perfect for a mountain vow renewal or elopement.

The landscape is scattered with massive, weathered boulders—think Joshua Tree vibes, but with the epic backdrop of Mount Whitney towering behind. Raw. Quiet. Wildly scenic.

Because Alabama Hills is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), you’ll often find far fewer people here than in traditional parks. That sense of solitude makes it ideal for couples looking for space and stillness. Just be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles and apply for the (free) permit if you’re planning to camp!

Sunrise vs. Sunset in Alabama Hills

When photographing in Alabama Hills, this is one of those locations where I highly recommend splitting your photography coverage between sunrise and sunset—you truly can’t miss either.

For Jake and Hayley’s mountain vow renewal, we did just that. They stayed at a cozy Airbnb in Lone Pine, just minutes from Movie Road—the main scenic drive through Alabama Hills. Before sunrise, we drove out so they could read their vows at first light. The mountains behind them lit up in warm tones of pink and gold—one of those moments that feels still and surreal.

After a couple of hours exploring and photographing different pockets of the landscape in the golden morning light, we took a mid-day break to recharge. They grabbed breakfast in town and spent the afternoon relaxing back at their Airbnb.

That evening, we met again for sunset portraits, chasing the last golden light as it spilled across the boulders—bringing a dramatic, glowing close to the day.

Where to stay for your Mountain Vow Renewal

Places to Stay in Alabama Hills

Alabama Hills is located just 3 miles west of the town of Lone Pine, California, along scenic Highway 395. If you’re planning a mountain vow renewal here, you’ve got a couple of great options for where to stay:

• Camp for Free
  You can camp directly in Alabama Hills on BLM land—it’s free, but you’ll need to fill out a quick permit online. It’s a great option if you want to be fully immersed in the landscape and don’t mind off grid camping.
  
• Stay in Town
  For more comfort (and hot showers!), Airbnb stays in Lone Pine are your best bet. Here are a few standout options:
  
  • The Lone West
    A charming Western-inspired home with incredible views of the Sierra Nevada range.
    
  • The Lone East
    A similarly styled sister property to Lone West—ideal if you’re traveling with friends and want nearby stays.
    
  • Cabin Lone Pine (West Wind on Lone Starr)
    A cozy cabin-style stay, part of a multi-unit property—check out the East Wind if you need additional space.
    
  • House in Lone Pine (East Wind on Lone Starr)
    Another great option on the same property, perfect for families or a small group making a weekend out of it.

Places to stay in the Eastern Sierras

Feeling inspired to plan a vow renewal, but looking for something tucked deeper in the mountains? I’ve got you. The Sierras are full of quiet pockets that offer the best of both worlds—remote, scenic beauty with the comfort of nearby amenities.

Mammoth Lakes / June Lake
Think alpine lakes, natural hot springs, and a hint of high desert vibes. If you’re craving crisp mountain air and endless adventure, this area is calling your name!

• Outbound Hotels in Mammoth – a modern, adventure-friendly basecamp right in town.
  
• Lake Front Cabins in June Lake – charming, rustic cabins just steps from the lake.
  Bonus: both are pet-friendly!
  

Hope Valley
South of Lake Tahoe, Hope Valley is a peaceful mountain valley near Carson Pass—perfect for fishing, hiking, or just soaking in the stillness of the Sierras.

• Desolation Hotel Hope Valley – Stay in a cozy cabin or yurt on this scenic, historic property tucked into the trees.

Reasons to Plan a Vow Renewal in the Mountains

Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary or simply want to reconnect, a mountain vow renewal can be the perfect way to honor your story—right where you are now.

• Your relationship has grown—and that’s worth celebrating
  Over time, your story has deepened. A vow renewal lets you mark that growth in a way that feels grounded and meaningful to you today.
  
• You want to remember where it all started
  Renewing your vows is a chance to slow down and reflect—to re-center, reconnect, and remember the core of your story.
  
• New chapter, new photos
  Every phase of your relationship is worth documenting. Whether you’re five years in or twenty, this moment matters too.
  

Where to Have Your Vow Renewal Ceremony

Jake and Hayley chose Alabama Hills—one of their favorite places to camp in the Eastern Sierras. Choosing a location that’s already part of your story makes the experience even more meaningful.

Your vow renewal can be wherever you want it to be. A quiet trail, a spot you return to year after year, or even your own backyard. Whether it’s an adventure down the dirt roads of our public lands or a cozy weekend away at an Airbnb, what matters most is that it feels like you.

Let’s Plan Your Mountain Vow Renewal

If this post sparked an idea or gave you a vision for your own day, reach out. Whether you’re eyeing the Eastern Sierras or still exploring locations, I’m here to help guide you through planning something that feels intentional, beautiful, and entirely yours.

More Resources

Looking for more inspiration or planning help? Check out these guides:

• My 4 Favorite Locations in the Sierra Nevadas
  A curated list of incredible mountain spots if you’re dreaming of a Sierra Nevada elopement or vow renewal.
  
• Guide to Eloping in Alabama Hills
  Everything you need to know—from permits to best times of day—for planning an elopement or vow renewal in this dramatic High Desert location.