The Most Incredible Places to Elope in Washington
Wondering where to elope in Washington?
My elopement & micro wedding destination guide has you covered.
Find yourself considering eloping to Washington, but don’t know where to go exactly? A quick search online and it’s easy to get overwhelmed with the sheer number of destinations! Through my travels through the evergreen state I’ve compiled a list of the best elopement and micro wedding destinations in the state. While I hail from sunny California my heart has always belonged to the Pacific Northwest. My eventual goal is to move to the forests and mountains Washington in the near future so it has been an area I have focused my exploration and location scouting for the last few year. From accessible locations in the forests perfect for grandparents to mountain top venues accessible only by the truly adventurous, there’s a little of everything in this guide to Washington’s best elopement destinations.
So what does Washington have to offer for potential elopers?
From the glacial capped volcanoes of the Cascade range to the rugged coastlines Washington has a myriad of destinations that not only make for incredible elopement destinations but locations that will take your breath away. Visit Olympic National Park, best know for its lush rainforests but also home to rugged coastlines and towering mountains. See Mount Rainier National Park with its iconic mountain views and vast meadows of wildflowers. Explore the Puget sound and locations like the San Juan Islands with its rugged shorelines, charming small towns, and stunning views of the Olympic Mountains. Venture into the Columbia River Gorge and travel alongside the Columbia River and watch the forest landscape shift into a desert.
My top six favorite Washington Elopement Destinations
Click the following links to jump to each location.
When is the best time of year To elope to Washington
Washington State is a beautiful destination for elopements, with diverse landscapes that vary from rainforests to beaches, mountains to deserts. As an elopement photographer who has experienced more than my fair share of freak storms and rainy wedding days, I'm here to guide you through the planning process and help you choose the best time and location for your Washington State elopement. Overall, late spring through early fall is the best time to elope to Washington State, as the weather is at its mildest, and the scenery is at its most vibrant. July gets the least amount of rain but you’ll have to deal with the crowds. Even in the dry season it's still essential to check the weather forecast and come prepare for rain. Breaking it down further the best time to elope in Washington State depends on the region you are planning to visit, the weather patterns, and your personal preferences. Here's a breakdown of the best time to elope to Washington State based on different regions.
The Coast
From the Olympic Peninsula all the way down to the Oregon border the coastline of the evergreen state is a beautiful region, characterized by dense rainforests, rugged coastlines, and towering mountains. Explore the rich mosses and lush ferns of the Hoh Rainforest or sit and enjoy the waves crashing on the towering sea stacks of Rialto Beach. The driest time to elope on the coast is from July to September. During these months, you can elope and explore without too much worry of getting a heavy rain but light showers are still common and occasional storms are possible.
The Cascades
With Mount Rainier at their crown the Cascade mountains run North to South through Washington and have several popular destinations for elopements. From serene alpine meadows to roaring waterfalls, the Cascade Mountains offer a paradise for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Whether hiking through rugged trails, partaking in winter sports, or simply admiring their grandeur from afar, the Cascade Mountains provide endless opportunities to immerse oneself in the beauty and serenity of the natural world. The best time to elope at Mount Rainier is from July to September, when the weather is drier and warmer, the snowpack has melted enough to give access to the high-country and the wildflowers are in full bloom.
Eastern Washington
This region captivates visitors with its natural beauty and unique charm. Characterized by vast stretches of rolling countryside, golden wheat fields, and picturesque vineyards, this part of the state offers a striking contrast to the lush forests of western Washington. Known for its dry, desert-like climate, Eastern Washington is a delight for outdoor enthusiasts. The region boasts remarkable attractions like the breathtaking Palouse Falls, the magnificent Columbia River Gorge, and the serene Lake Chelan. Visitors can explore charming small towns such as Leavenworth, where Bavarian-style architecture creates a whimsical atmosphere. Due to the drier nature of this area it can be accessed year round.
1. Olympic NATIONAL PARK
If you're dreaming of exchanging vows surrounded by stunning natural beauty but can decide on any one landscape, Olympic National Park may be the perfect destination for your elopement. With diverse landscapes ranging from rugged coastlines to dense rainforests, and snow-capped peaks to alpine meadows there’s a little bit of everything here. So far Olympic is my favorite national park both to visit and to shoot elopements.
The park's stunning beaches, such as Ruby Beach and Rialto Beach, offer rocky cliffs, sea stacks, and driftwood-strewn shores that create a dramatic and picturesque backdrop for your ceremony. Imagine saying "I do" as the sun sets behind towering sea stacks, with the sound of waves crashing against the shore.
If you're looking for a more serene and peaceful setting, the Hoh Rainforest and the Quinault Rainforest are two of the most popular spots for elopements in Olympic National Park. These lush rainforests offer a verdant and tranquil environment for couples to exchange vows surrounded by towering trees, ferns, and mosses. The soft light filtering through the trees and the sound of a nearby stream create a romantic and intimate ambiance for your elopement ceremony.
Wanting something more elevated? (pun intended) For a mountainous backdrop, look no further than Hurricane Ridge. A popular spot in the Olympic Mountains ideal for adventurous elopements, with panoramic views of rolling mountains and valleys.
WHEN TO VISIT : The best time to elope in Olympic National Park is from late spring to early fall, when the weather is mild and dry, and the wildflowers are in full bloom. However, be prepared for rain at any time of the year, as Olympic National Park receives an average of 12 feet of rain annually.
BEST FEATURES: Unique Temperate rainforests, rugged beaches, pristine lakes, snowcapped mountains.
IMPORTANT INFO : Olympic national parks gets around 215 days of rain each year. So if you want to stay dry plan your wedding in the summer months and always bring an umbrella.
WHERE TO STAY : You can camp in the park even on the beaches but for more luxurious accommodations look at Kalaloch Lodge, Sol Duc Resort, Lake Crescent Lodge, & Log Cabin Resort
2. Mt Rainier National Park
Mt. Rainier National Park is a breathtaking elopement destination high in the cascades of Washington. Offering a range of stunning locations for couples seeking a unique and memorable mountain top wedding experience. This iconic location boasts towering peaks, pristine forests, and alpine meadows, providing an idyllic setting for your special day.
One of the most popular areas for elopements is Paradise. This location offers stunning views of Mt. Rainier and fields of wildflowers, and more than a few groundhogs and many hiking trails in the area, offering additional opportunities for beautiful photographs. For more panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, glaciers, and alpine meadows head up to Sunrise. For a more secluded and intimate location, Ohanapecosh might be the perfect spot for your elopement. This area features old-growth forests, crystal-clear streams and is a bit warmer and sunnier than the rest of the park.
WHEN TO VISIT - The best time to elope in Mt. Rainier National Park is from mid-July to mid-September when the weather is warm and dry, and the wildflowers are in full bloom. However, be prepared for sudden changes in weather, as the mountain is known for creating its own weather patterns.
BEST FEATURES - The awe inspiring peak of Mt Rainier jutting into the clouds, alpine meadows of wildflowers, crystal clear lakes, and did I mention mountain views?
IMPORTANT INFO - It's important to know which of the five entrances to Mount Rainier National Park will lead you to your desired destination. Some areas of the park can only be accessed through certain entrances, and driving to different areas can take a significant amount of time. GPS navigation may not be reliable in directing you to the correct entrance or may suggest a route that is closed.
WHERE TO STAY - Depending on which area of the park you plan to spend most of your time you can check out the National Park Inn and the Paradise inn. Outside the park you can stay at Alta Crystal Resort
3. Northern Cascades National Park
Nestled in the northern edge of Washington, Northern Cascades National Park is a unique location for an elopement ceremony. With its towering peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and cascading waterfalls, the park provides a truly idyllic setting for your special day. The best par of it all though is that the Northern Cascades is one of the least visited national parks in the country. Just 17,000 people a year visit this slice of Washingtons wilderness.
If you're looking for a more secluded and intimate location, the Hidden Lake Trail might be the perfect spot for your elopement. This trail offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys and leads to a beautiful alpine lake. You can exchange vows on the lookout over the lake while taking in the stunning mountain landscape.
Another beautiful location for elopements is Diablo Lake. This stunning lake is known for its vibrant turquoise color and is surrounded by towering peaks and dense forests.
WHEN TO VISIT - The best time to elope in Northern Cascades National Park is from mid-July to mid-September when the weather is warm and dry, and the wildflowers are in full bloom. However, be prepared for sudden changes in weather, as the mountains can create their own weather patterns.
BEST FEATURES - Minimal crowds, stunning mountain views, quiet hiking trails through the woods, and turquoise lakes.
IMPORTANT INFO - As with most mountain destinations, pack layers and be prepared for unexpected changes in the weather
WHERE TO STAY - Not a ton of options close to the park but some great ones to check out are Ross Lake Resort & The Lodge at Stehekin
4. Puget Sound
For a beautiful and unique location for your elopement ceremony, look no further than the Washington’s Puget Sound. This inlet of the Salish sea is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest, providing numerous islands that can be the perfect backdrop for an intimate and romantic wedding ceremony.
Stepping off the boat at Friday Harbor you’ll see why San Juan Island is one of the most popular areas for elopements and micro weddings in Puget Sound. The island features breathtaking views of the surrounding waterways, a rocky shores, and lush forests. You can exchange your vows at one of the many stunning beaches, parks, or gardens on the island or rent a boat and say "I do" in the middle of the sound.
For a drivable location head north from Seattle and across the iconic bridge of Deception Pass. Located on the northern end of Whidbey Island, is a narrow and deep strait that separates Whidbey Island from Fidalgo Island. The area features stunning views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Puget Sound, as well as a variety of hiking trails, beaches, and picturesque coves.
WHEN TO VISIT - The best time to elope in Puget Sound featuring San Juan Island is from May to September when the weather is warm and dry, and the natural beauty of the area is in full bloom. However, be prepared for sudden changes in weather, as the area is known for its rapidly changing weather patterns.
BEST FEATURES - Rugged beaches, abundant wildlife and whale watching.
IMPORTANT INFO - Many destinations in the sound are accessible only by by ferry so ferry schedules can be a crucial part of your planning.
WHERE TO STAY - There are many incredible places to stay in the sound! Check out Snug Harbor Resort & The Island Inn
5. Mt Baker
If you have mountaintop elopement envisioned, but want more mountain ranges and not a long majestic peak, Mt Baker is the perfect destination. One of the most popular locations on Mt. Baker for an elopement is Artist Point. This stunning spot is located at the end of a winding mountain road and provides a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains, including Mt. Shuksan and Mt. Baker itself. You can exchange your vows on the rocky outcroppings or on one of the nearby hiking trails with stunning views.
Mt. Baker is also home to numerous other beautiful locations for your elopement. You can choose to exchange your vows at one of the many crystal clear mountain lakes or hike to a secluded spot for a more intimate ceremony.
WHEN TO VISIT - The best time to elope at Mt. Baker is from late June to early October when the mountain is accessible and the weather is typically clear and dry. However, be prepared for sudden changes in weather, as mountain weather can be unpredictable.
BEST FEATURES - Glacier capped mountain peaks, blooming wildflowers, alpine lakes, forests and stellar vistas.
IMPORTANT INFO - Artist point is only accessible a small portion of the year due to snowpack plan accordingly.
WHERE TO STAY - You’ll want to look for vacation rentals or AirBnB’s if you want to stay close to Mt. baker.
6. Columbia River Gorge
Last on the list but certainly not least, we have our southern most destination on the list. The gorge offers a breathtakingly beautiful landscape carved into the cliffs by the Columbia River. The Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge offers numerous locations for an elopement, each with its unique features and charm. One of the most popular locations for an elopement is the Beacon Rock State Park, which boasts a 100-foot tall volcanic plug that provides a stunning backdrop for your ceremony. You can also hop across the river to the Oregon side and find numerous hiking trails with waterfalls for your wedding photos.
WHEN TO VISIT - The best time to elope in the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge is from late spring to early fall when the weather is warm and the scenery is at its best. However, keep in mind that this area can get busy during peak season, so it's important to plan ahead.
BEST FEATURES - Sheer cliffs, a stunning river, forests, Mountain views, and many waterfalls.
IMPORTANT INFO - This is a great destination if you want to be in either the Vancouver Washington area or Portland as it is easily accessible from both.
WHERE TO STAY - Look for hotels or rentals in the Portland or Camas area .
Additional Resources and FAQ
Need more convincing? Don’t know where to begin planning?
Why Elope?
Nowadays, elopements have evolved beyond the traditional notion of a secret or rushed wedding. Instead, they offer a more intimate and intentional way to celebrate a couple's love and commitment, typically in a stunning natural setting or unique location.
How to Plan your Elopement.
Approach elopement planning similar to planning a vacation. Conduct research on your chosen destination and have a loose plan in place, but be open to spontaneity and following your instincts for a more enjoyable experience.
Let’s have an adventure!
I am an elopement photographer for artistic souls, and those who would genuinely like to create something beautiful with a photographer as excited for your wedding as you are. Let's tell your love story!
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The six top elopement destinations in Washington state are 1. Olympic National park 2. Mt Rainier National Park 3. Northern Cascades National Park 4. Mt Baker 5. Puget Sound 6. Columbia River Gorge
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The costs to elope in Washington state, varies widely depending on where and what you do for your elopement. It can be as affordable as a few hundred dollars for a courthouse wedding or tens of thousands for a more luxurious experience.
For an average cost breakdown expect to budget; $1,500 for clothing and accessories. $100 for a marriage license, $200 for a ceremony permit if eloping to the national parks, $3,000-$4,000 for an awesome wedding photographer who can help you plan your adventure, $1,500 for travel accommodations, and $500-$1,000 for a makeup artist.
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Elopement can be a more affordable option than a traditional wedding but where they really shine isn’t in their lower cost, but in their bang for your buck. You could spend the same amount of money on your elopement but instead of getting a one day party out of it you get a trip to a beautiful destination and an adventure you’ll never forget. It’s all about the experience.
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No Washington state has a three day waiting period for all marriages in the state. Either get your permit early for your elopement or handle the legal part of your marriage back home.