(all-new updated guide for 2024)
We’re Uncharted Elopements – Oregon elopement photographers who are stoked about everything the PNW has to offer. In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the top 10 Best Places to Elope in the Pacific Northwest, complete with specific locations, places to stay, and the best time of year to visit.
The Pacific Northwest (the PNW) is a region renowned for its remarkable diversity of landscapes. From the rugged coastline of Oregon with its iconic sea stacks to the pristine, emerald-green rainforests of Washington’s Olympic Peninsula, the vast desert of Southern Oregon, the PNW offers a wide range of stunning scenery. Volcanoes like Mount Rainier and Mount Hood stand tall, their snow-capped peaks contrasting with the lush valleys and alpine meadows below. Further into the PNW, the region boasts vast forests, including the enchanting old-growth trees of the Hoh Rainforest. The San Juan Islands offer a unique blend of marine beauty with their rocky shorelines and idyllic beaches.
Each season in the PNW offers different scenery, from vibrant wildflower in the summer to the snow-covered landscapes of winter. This diversity of scenery gives such a range of places and epic spots to choose from your elopement.
Eloping in Mt Baker National Forest, Washington
- Nearest Airport:
- 2 hours drive from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport
- Marriage License and Permitting
- Washington marriage license is $69 and is valid for 60 days. There is a 3 day waiting period before you get married; you can not get married on the same day you get your marriage license.
- Many national forests do not require a permit for elopement. You typically only need a permit if you’re going to hold a gathering of more than 75 people, but a letter of approval is required from the forest service despite group size.
- $5 day pass or $30 annual pass
- Hiking Trails
- There are 1,500 miles of hiking trails for all levels of hikers! There are day hikes and backpacking hikes. Some are accessible for people with disabilities and some offer a rugged hike. Check out the list of all the hiking trails here.
- Accommodation
- The most common types accommodations for this area are vacation rentals, cabins, and campgrounds
- Top recommended accommodations
- Local Activities
- Bicycling, camping, climbing, fishing, hiking, horse riding, hunting, nature viewing, OHV riding, picnicking, scenic drives, water activities, skiing, snowboarding + more
- Weather
- Mt Baker National Forest is fantastic to visit all year round depending on the style of elopement you want and the activities you want to do. In general, summer and fall are the best times to visit, since it’s not too hot and not too cold. Mt Baker is most popular during the winter season for skiing and snowboarding. Most trails will require snowshoes in the late fall, winter and early spring. It’s a great time to visit if you are looking for a winter wonderland elopement
- For more info on this top 10 best places to elope in the pacific northwest location, check out How to Elope in Washington State
- For local Mt Baker elopement photography packages (+ videography, planning and officiating) click here
Eloping in North Cascade National Park, Washington
- Nearest Airport
- 2-2.5 hours drive from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport
- Wedding License and Permitting
- Washington marriage license is $69 and is valid for 60 days. There is a 3 day waiting period before you get married; you can not get married on the same day you get your marriage license
- $30 entrance fee
- If you are eloping inside the park, then you need to get a $50 permit for an approved location (applications are on the National Park website).
- Hiking Trails
- There are hiking trails that range from under half an hour to a full day hike. Check out the list of all the hiking trails here!
- Accommodation
- Top recommended accommodations
- Local Activities
- Horseback riding, kayaking, climbing, bicycling, hiking, camping, bird and wildlife viewing, boating, fishing + more
- Weather
- The best weather for visiting the North Cascades generally occurs between mid-June and late-September.
- Storms are common and it’s good to prepare for rain and wind
- For more info on this top 10 best places to elope in the pacific northwest location, check out How to Elope in Washington State
- For local North Cascades National Park elopement photography packages (+ videography, planning and officiating) click here
Eloping in Olympic National Park, Washington
- Nearest Airport
- 2 hours drive from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport
- Wedding License and Permitting
- Washington marriage license is $69 and is valid for 60 days. There is a 3 day waiting period before you get married; you can not get married on the same day you get your marriage license
- $30 entrance fee
- If you are eloping inside the park, then you need to get a $50-$100 permit for an approved location (applications are on the National Park website).
- Hiking Trails
- There are a ranges of low to high elevation trails for all levels of hikers. You can find top-ranked hiking trails here!
- Accommodation
- Top recommended accommodations
- Local Activities
- Boating, climbing, fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, skiing, snowboarding + more
- Weather
- The weather is unpredictable all year round, so it’s recommended to be proactive checking the forecast before visiting. Mid summer to early Fall is typically the best time of year due to cold weather and snow.
- For a better understanding of the weather during different seasons, check out this page
- For more info on this top 10 best places to elope in the pacific northwest location, check out How to Elope in Washington State
- For local Olympic National Park elopement photography packages (+ videography, planning and officiating) click here
Eloping in the Enchantments and Leavenworth, Washington
- Nearest Airport
- 45 minutes drive from Pangborn Memorial Airport; 2.5 hours drive from the Seattle International Airport
- Permitting
- Washington marriage license is $69 and is valid for 60 days. There is a 3 day waiting period before you get married; you can not get married on the same day you get your marriage license
- Many national forests do not require a permit for elopement. You typically only need a permit if you’re going to hold a gathering of more than 75 people. Some locations do still require a letter of approval from the forest service
- Hiking Trails
- There are over 117 hiking trails in the Leavenworth area for all hiking levels. Click HERE for hiking trail ideas!
- Accommodation
- There are a variety of accommodations in Leavenworth from hotels, bed and breakfasts, camping grounds, vacation rentals, and more
- Top recommended accommodations
- Local Activities
- Rock climbing, bicycling, camping, river float, swimming, skiing, snowboarding, ziplining, offroading, kayaking, visiting wineries, horseback riding, brewery tours + more
- Weather
- The best time of year at Leavenworth is Fall. It’s not too hot or too cold out, the leaves are gorgeous and orange and red, and it’s the perfect time to enjoy an elopement there. If you’re looking for a winter wonderland elopement, then Winter might be the season for you—with the snow on the ground and all around you, it will feel like you’re getting married in a fairy tale!
- Summer is also a great time to elope at Leavenworth. It can get busy with tourists during this season, but it’s warm and sunny out, so if you don’t mind crowds, it’s the perfect time to have your nuptials there. The only season that might not be ideal is Springtime—that’s when the snow melts and things can get pretty wet and muddy.
- For more info on this top 10 best places to elope in the pacific northwest location, check out How to Elope in Washington State
- For local Leavenworth elopement photography packages (+ videography, planning and officiating) click here
Eloping in Mt Rainier National Park, Washington
- Nearest Airport:
- 1.5-2 hours drive from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport
- Wedding License and Permitting
- Washington marriage license is $69 and is valid for 60 days. There is a 3 day waiting period before you get married; you can not get married on the same day you get your marriage license
- A permit is required for all wedding ceremonies held within Mount Rainier National Park
- $30 single vehicle fee
- $175 application fee must be paid before the permit; applications must be submitted at least four weeks before the requested elopement date
- Party size will determine which areas in the park can be used for elopement and marriage ceremonies; find more info on the permits and restrictions here
- Things that are not allowed:
- Impede the activities of other park visitors
- Areas may not be roped off or blocked in any way to the general public
- Modest decorations may be allowed (additional permissions required)
- The setting up of chairs, tents, or awnings is not permitted
- Throwing of rice, confetti, etc. is not allowed
- Hiking Trails
- There are hundreds of hiking trails for all levels of hikers! You can find out more about the day hikes here
- Accommodation
- There are two inns located inside Mount Rainier National Park, RV and car campgrounds, and wilderness campgrounds
- Top recommended accommodations
- Local Activities
- Hiking, camping, climbing, bicycling, fishing, boating, skiing, snowboarding + more
- Weather
- Weather can be unpredictable and it’s recommended to be proactive on checking the forecast before visiting
- Summer is hot and dry while winter can get a significant of snowfall, however the area can get wet and cold at any time of the year. Late summer to early Fall is a gorgeous time of year – the wildflowers bloom typically in August!
- For more info on this top 10 best places to elope in the pacific northwest location, check out How to Elope in Washington State
- For local Mt Rainier National Park elopement photography packages (+ videography, planning and officiating) click here
Eloping at Cape Kiwanda, Oregon
- Nearest Airport
- 2 hours drive from the Portland Airport
- Wedding License and Permitting
- Oregon marriage license is $60 and is valid for 60 days. There is a 3 day waiting period before you get married; you can not get married on the same day you get your marriage license
- You do not need a permit if you have less than 50 people at your elopement. If you have more than 50 people or will be tables, chairs, or any furniture, then you will need to call the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department at (541) 994-8152
- Hiking Trail
- Cape Kiwanda is known for its relaxing and dreamy beach more than their hiking trails, but you’re still able to go on the Cape Kiwanda 1-2 miles hiking trail that is perfect for everyone of all ages
- Accommodation
- Top recommended accommodations
- Local Activities
- Fishing, swimming, coastal tours, beach bonfires, dune climbing, wind surfing, wine tasting, off roading on the beach, horseback riding, spa treatments, cooking classes, food tours, brewery tours, and picnicking
- Weather
- Cape Kiwanda truly is beautiful all year round, so the best time to visit your elopement will depend on how you want it to be. In the summer you get more clear blue skies but in the winter there’s more fog and rain. Both can provide you with a magical experience for your elopement!
- For more info on this top 10 best places to elope in the pacific northwest location, check out How to Elope on the Oregon Coast
- For local Cape Kiwanda elopement photography packages (+ videography, planning and officiating) click here
Eloping at Cannon Beach, Oregon (+ other nearby beaches)
- Nearest Airport
- 2 hours drive from Portland International Airport
- Wedding License and Permitting
- Oregon marriage license is $60 and is valid for 60 days. There is a 3 day waiting period before you get married; you can not get married on the same day you get your marriage license
- You do not need a permit if you have less than 50 people at your elopement. If you have more than 50 people or will be tables, chairs, or any furniture, then you will need to call the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department at (541) 994-8152
- Hiking Trails
- Cannon Beach is not necessarily known for their hiking, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t some incredible hiking trails in the area
- The hiking trails in the area are more catered towards beginner to novice level hikers
- Accommodation
- Top recommended accommodations
- Local Activities
- There are so many activities available at Cannon Beach! Activities ranges from shopping, beach walks, museums, food and beer tours, surfing, bicycling, and more
- Here are the top things to do near Cannon Beach
- The Beach & Haystack Rock
- Ecola State Park
- Arcadia Beach
- Hug Point
- Oswald West State Park
- For information on wedding permits at a state park in Oregon, click here
- Weather
- It can always be wet and rainy in Oregon throughout the year, however at Cannon Beach the weather can create a charming and magical atmosphere for your elopement. The best weather is during the Summer months but keep in mind that this is also when it is the most crowded
- For more info on this top 10 best places to elope in the pacific northwest location, check out How to Elope on the Oregon Coast
- For local Cannon Beach elopement photography packages (+ videography, planning and officiating) click here
Eloping in the Columbia River Gorge, Oregon
- Nearest Airport
- 30 minutes drive from the Portland Airport
- Wedding License and Permitting
- Oregon marriage license is $60 and is valid for 60 days. There is a 3 day waiting period before you get married; you can not get married on the same day you get your marriage license
- You do not need a permit if you have less than 50 people at your elopement. If you have more than 50 people or will be tables, chairs, or any furniture, then you will need to call the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department at (541) 994-8152
- Hiking Trails
- There are no limits when it comes to adventure and hiking trails in this area! Click here for some of the top hikes to check out.
- Accommodation
- You’ll find cabin, yurts, camping grounds, bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, and hotels in this area
- Top recommended accommodations
- Local Activities
- Camping, bicycling, hiking, beaches, whale watching, wind surfing, wineries, kayaking, boating, swimming + more
- Weather
- The weather in Oregon can be wet and rainy all year round, however it tends to be more dry and warm during Summer and Fall
- For local Columbia River Gorge elopement photography packages (+ videography, planning and officiating) click here
Eloping at Smith Rock State Park, Oregon
- Nearest Airport
- 3 hours drive from the Portland Airport
- Wedding License and Permitting
- Oregon marriage license is $60 and is valid for 60 days. There is a 3 day waiting period before you get married; you can not get married on the same day you get your marriage license
- You do not need a permit if you have less than 20 people at your elopement. They only allow 1-2 weddings per month at the amphitheater, which has space for 50 guests
- $10 day pass or $30 annual pass
- Hiking Trails
- Smith Rock State Park is known for their incredible rocking climbing and trails! If you’re an avid hiker or climber, then this is the place you want to be. Click here for some of the top trails.
- Accommodation
- The most common types accommodations for this area are hotels, vacation rentals, cabins, and campgrounds
- Top recommended accommodations
- Local Activities
- Camping, bicycling, hiking, kayaking, climbing, picnicking and wildlife watching
- Weather
- The best times to visit are Spring and Fall since the weather will be mild. If you go during the Summer, then you need to prepare for extremely hot weather
- For local Smith Rock State Park elopement photography packages (+ videography, planning and officiating) click here
Eloping in Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor and Brookings, Oregon
- Nearest Airport
- 2 hours drive from the Crescent City Airport or a 2.5 hour drive from the Rogue Valley International Airport in Medford
- Wedding License and Permitting
- Oregon marriage license is $60 and is valid for 60 days. There is a 3 day waiting period before you get married; you can not get married on the same day you get your marriage license
- You do not need a permit if you have less than 50 people at your elopement. If you have more than 50 people or will be tables, chairs, or any furniture, then you will need to call the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department at (541) 994-8152
- Hiking Trails
- The coastline hikes in this area are epic – here’s a few of the top trails.
- Accommodation
- Brookings has a variety of beachfront hotels, vacation rentals, bed and breakfasts, and more
- Top recommended accommodations
- Nearby Activities
- Camping, bicycling, hiking, beaches, whale watching, ranger-led tours, swimming, picnicking, fishing, scenic drives, wildlife watching + more
- Here are the top things to do in Brookings:
- Harris Beach State Park
- Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor
- Azalea Park
- Lone Ranch Beach
- Natural Bridges Viewpoint
- Weather
- Oregon is a place where it can always be wet and rainy throughout the year, however at Brookings the weather can create a charming and magical atmosphere for your elopement. The best weather is during the Summer months but keep in mind that this is also when it is the most crowded.
- For more info on this top 10 best places to elope in the pacific northwest location, check out How to Elope on the Oregon Coast
- For local Brookings elopement photography packages (+ videography, planning and officiating) click here
You honestly can’t go wrong when choosing a spot from these top 10 best places to elope in the Pacific Northwest. From snow capped mountains to alpine likes, jagged coastlines, moss filled forests, misting waterfalls and expansive beach lines, it’s safe to say that each location is incredibly breathtaking in its own way. One thing’s for sure – your PNW elopement will be epic.
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I just made it to Oregon for the first time and this is so helpful for finding cool hiking locations! Thank you!
Ah that’s awesome to hear – have a blast! Oregon rocks!
Thank you for sharing this super helpful guide of the best spots to elope! I absolutely loved your photos and way of story telling!