On a chilly autumn day in October, Bryce and Rachel were married. Like many things in the mountains, their day didn’t go as planned, but in the end, everything about it was perfect. Originally the pair had planned their hiking elopement for Artist Point at Mt. Baker. They had spent time scouting the perfect ceremony location, creating personalized favors with the location’s mountain skyline, and choosing a nearby brewery to celebrate afterwards.

About one week before their date, we found out that forest service was going to be closing the road up to Mt. Baker for fall maintenance. We were crushed and immediately started looking at other options. Bryce spotted a small lake just off the Pacific Crest Trail on Chinook Pass. I had been up the area recently and knew that the fall colors were going to be gorgeous. The hike in seemed short and doable for the small group they had joining them. The plan was set!

The day of the hiking elopement was sunny and brisk. It was one of those days where it was warm in the sun but you knew winter was coming when you stood in the shade. Nature was showing off that day, with fall colors in abundance. After getting dressed into their wedding attire near the trailhead, Bryce and Rachel shared a first look. In true Pacific Northwest fashion, Rachel donned wool socks, leggings, and Birkenstocks under her wedding gown, yet she looked gorgeous as ever hiking down the trail with her husband-to-be.

The group gathered at the small lake after a short hike on the Pacific Crest Trail. The sun shone brightly as Bryce and Rachel said their vows. Hiking and backpacking is such a huge part of their lives together. It was the perfect setting on the perfect day for these two to get married.

After the ceremony, the group shared a champagne toast, macarons, and spent some time taking photos and enjoying the scenery. The air temperature dropped significantly after the sun dropped behind the surrounding peaks. We packed up quickly and enjoyed a chilly hike back to the car.

I am so glad that these two chose me to document their incredible wedding. I have my own love of the mountains and backpacking, and this wedding was perfect in so many ways. Congratulations Bryce and Rachel, I wish you many years of happy trails!

This hiking elopement was featured on Wandering Weddings!