There is something inherently sacred about returning to a place that feels like home. This Mountain Vow Renewal in Alabama Hills was a day built entirely on intentionality and a deep-rooted connection to this high desert landscape.

As the creatives behind Wander Love Captures, Jake and Hayley are usually the ones behind the camera, but for this, they stepped into the frame. Their day was a beautiful reflection of the things they value most: wide-open landscapes, quiet moments of reflection, and the ultimate freedom to roam in their Tacoma, Wander Taco.

A Full-Day Adventure in Alabama Hills

Jake + Hayley

The day began in the hushed, pre-dawn stillness of the high desert. As the sun finally crested the horizon, it painted the rugged Sierra peaks in a soft alpenglow—serving as a cinematic backdrop for Jake and Hayley’s vows. Starting at sunrise allowed them to experience Alabama Hills in it’s purest state: quiet, vast, and perfectly still. It was a morning dedicated solely to their connection and the promises they were renewing.

After a midday “rest and reset”, we met back up as the light began to soften across the valley. We spent the golden hour chasing the dramatic light of the desert, capturing portraits as they roamed through the iconic rock formations that make this landscape so legendary. An adventurous, soulful conclusion to a truly intentional Mountain Vow Renewal.

Planning Tip: If you’re dreaming of a similar experience in this stunning landscape, be sure to check out my Alabama Hills Elopement Guide for all the details on how to plan your own celebration in the high desert.

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—ideal for a Mountain Vow Renewal or elopement.

The landscape is defined by massive, weathered boulders—reminiscent of Joshua Tree, but with the towering backdrop of Mount Whitney. It is raw, quiet, and wildly scenic.

Because Alabama Hills is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), it often provides a sense of solitude you won’t find in more traditional parks. That stillness makes it a perfect choice for couples who value space and privacy. Just remember to follow Leave No Trace principles and secure the required permits to ensure this landscape remains protected.

Sunrise vs. Sunset in Alabama Hills

When planning an elopement or vow renewal in Alabama Hills, 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 exactly that. Staying at a cozy Airbnb in Lone Pine placed them just minutes from Movie Road—the iconic scenic drive through the heart of Alabama Hills. We arrived before dawn so they could exchange their vows at sunrise. As the sun hit the peaks, the mountains glowed in shades of pink and gold—one of those rare moments that feels entirely still and surreal.

After a few hours of exploring different pockets of the landscape in the soft morning light, we took a midday break to recharge. They grabbed breakfast in town and spent the afternoon relaxing before our second set of photos.

We met again that evening for sunset portraits, chasing the final golden light as it spilled across the boulders. It was the perfect, dramatic close to an intentional day in the high desert.

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 within Alabama Hills on BLM land. It is free, but you must obtain a quick permit online. This is a great option if you want to be fully immersed in the landscape and enjoy an off-grid experience.

Stay in Town For more comfort and amenities, 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, unobstructed 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.
- West Wind on Lone Starr: A cozy, unique cabin-style stay nestled right into the rocks.
- East Wind on Lone Starr: Another great option on the same property, perfect for families or small groups.

Places to stay in the Eastern Sierras

If you’re inspired to plan a Mountain Vow Renewal but are looking for a location tucked deeper into the high country, the Sierras are full of quiet pockets that offer the perfect blend of remote, scenic beauty and modern comfort.

Mammoth Lakes / June Lake
Think alpine lakes, natural hot springs, and crisp mountain air. If you’re craving high-altitude adventure and endless landscapes, this area is a perfect choice.

Outbound Hotels in Mammoth – A modern, adventure-friendly basecamp right in town. It features newly renovated cabins and chalets, an outdoor pool, and even a wood-fired sauna to relax in after a day of exploring.
Gather Collection Mammoth – luxury mountain stay in the Sierras. This Scandi-inspired home in Mammoth Lakes features stunning views and high-end amenities, offering a private and elevated experience.
Lake Front Cabins in June Lake – These charming, rustic cabins are located just steps from the lake and are within walking distance of the village.
Pet-Friendly Bonus: Both Outbound Mammoth and select units at Lake Front Cabins welcome your furry friends, making it easy to include your dog in your celebration.

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 Mountain Vow Renewal

Whether you’re celebrating a major anniversary or simply want to reconnect, a Mountain Vow Renewal is a powerful way to honor your story—exactly as it is today.

Celebrate your growth Over time, your relationship has deepened. A renewal allows you to mark that evolution in a way that feels grounded, intentional, and meaningful to you in this current season.
Reconnect with your roots Renewing your vows is an invitation to slow down. It’s a chance to reflect, re-center, and remember the core of your story away from the noise of daily life.
Document a new chapter Every phase of your relationship deserves to be captured. Whether you’ve been together five years or twenty, this moment in your journey is just as worthy of beautiful documentation as the day you first said “I do.”

Where to Have Your Vow Renewal Ceremony

Jake and Hayley chose Alabama Hills because it is one of their favorite places to camp in the Eastern Sierras. Selecting a location that is already woven into your personal history makes the experience even more significant.

Your Mountain Vow Renewal can take place anywhere that feels right for your story. Whether it’s a quiet trail, a spot you return to annually, or even your own backyard, the setting should be a reflection of your journey. Whether you prefer an adventure down the dirt roads of public lands or a cozy weekend at an Airbnb, the most important thing is that the day feels authentically yours.

Let’s Plan Your Mountain Vow Renewal

If this post sparked a vision for your own celebration, I would love to hear from you. Whether you are eyeing the Eastern Sierras or are still exploring potential locations, I am here to help guide you through planning an experience that feels intentional, beautiful, and entirely yours.

Send me a Message!