I say sunrise, but most of this mountain vow renewal took place in the pitch darkness with nothing but our headlamps to light our path. We started the hike at 3:15 in the morning in order to reach the top right just as the sun kissed the peaks. The journey brought a few unexpected twists, but Thaksheela & Rob were able to renew their vows with panoramic views of the Rockies in Kananaskis at first light.

A couple holds hands with views of the rocky mountains at sunrise in Kananaskis, AB

Kananskis Country is an incredible area just west of Calgary in Alberta. Bow Valley Provincial Park, quieter and less trafficked than its neighbour Banff National Park, provides stunning peaks and valley views. It was definitely on my list of places to photograph. After missing a chance to photograph Thaksheela & Rob once before due to scheduling conflicts, I practically ran to the airport for the chance to get to photograph them in Alberta.

We had originally planned on a sunset session in early June, but due to weather and ongoing complications with the pandemic, our plans shifted. In the Rockies, snow can cover trails even as late as the beginning of June. Coincidentally, by the time late June arrived, we were experiencing a heat wave! So sunset changed to sunrise rather quickly after seeing highs exceed 38 °C (100 °F) for the day. Yikes!! But as in all scenarios when shooting outdoors, we adjusted the plan and carried on.

And so it was 3:15 in the morning and we were ready for our ascension. Sunrise happens about 5:30 in the morning during the summertime so it is definitely an early start to the day. Thaksheela & Rob decided to hike in normal clothing and pack their clothes for the shoot! So in the wee hours of the morning, armed with plenty of water, headlamps and bear spray, we headed up the trail!

It was so nice to get to chat with Thaksheela & Rob, about their lives, interests and the first several years of their marriage. All three of us attended the same university, which is how we connected originally, and they were an absolute joy to be around. Rob was a little hesitant about the hike in the dark. It turns out that he was a little afraid of heights! The state of the trail was a bit ragged, which added to the difficulty, especially with only our headlamps to light the way.

About three fourths of our way to the top, we had our first hiccup. A wrong turn left us a little off course and ultimately delayed us about 40 minutes. While the situation was slightly stressful since we were literally racing the sun, it was a chance for me to observe just how great Thaksheela & Rob are together. Even under stress, they were always encouraging and never frustrated with each other. It was honestly a refreshing moment to see a couple after years of marriage work together. So often I photograph couples at the beginnings of their marriage, well before they’ve faced the many challenges life will throw their way. These two clearly were in sync, clearly true partners. With that, even after our detour, we reached the top with all smiles just as the sun was breaking through.

They quickly changed into their clothes and we immediately started shooting, making up for lost time from our first obstacle. And just then entered our second challenge of the day. Remember when I mentioned we packed our bear spray? Yep, right then a small, golden bear strolled right into our path.

This is probably where I should tell you I almost didn’t buy the bear spray. It’s expensive and unable to be carried on airplanes, so I almost convinced myself it wasn’t needed. The truth? It’s always needed. Just buy the bear spray.

Luckily the bear didn’t mind us much, glancing at us as she walked by and then disappearing down the path. The bear did, however, become very much a part of the shoot. Each one of us took breaks to shout out, “Bear stay away!!” whenever we could. Just in case.

Aside from our brief detour and wildlife encounter, it was a glorious morning in the mountains. We had the entire area to ourselves with panoramic views of the land. In one direction, big mountain views, in the other, sweeping valleys with meadows and Spray Lake in sight. The morning light was incredible. Thaksheela & Rob read each other the very same words they exchanged on their wedding day years ago. All in all, a truly exceptional sunrise mountain vow renewal in the Rockies!

If you are dreaming of a mountaintop photoshoot, whether it be an adventure elopement, vow renewal or engagement session, here are some tips to consider when planning your day.

Tips for a mountaintop photoshoot:

Bring the bear spray! This, in my opinion, is non-negotiable when hiking anywhere in the Rockies. Bears are no joke! There are also other predators lurking around, like wolves, and you’re on their turf. So come prepared. It’s not enough to just bring the bear spray, either. Make sure you know how to use it. Here’s a video I found super helpful!
Know the entry requirements! Some parks and trails require entry tickets or passes. For our hike in Kananaskis Country, we purchased our entry pass online. They are only $15 for a day pass and you can buy them here. A quick google search entry requirements for the location is always a good idea!
Choose a hike that matches your comfort level! It’s easy to see the viewpoint photos from a trail and think, “I want THAT!” But it’s so important to do some research on the trail difficulty and the state of the trail itself. More importantly, you need to ask yourself how comfortable you are in that environment. Be realistic! Not only for the safety factor, but for your overall enjoyment of the day. I love using All Trails to read reviews and better understand exactly what I am getting into! For reference, All Trails gave our trail a “moderate” difficulty, but reviewers said it was, “very easy to get lost!” Whoops.
Adding onto number three, make sure to do some research on seasonal trail conditions! Quite often trails are closed in off season or require special equipment, like snow shoes, to hike! If you aren’t an expert, consult one. Safety should always be your first priority.