So, you’ve decided to elope – congratulations! You’ve made a choice that is true to yourselves and will make your wedding day reflect the thing that matters most – your commitment to one another. Now you’re wondering, what next? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. As an experienced small wedding and elopement photographer, I’m here to help you through the process. Washington has some of the most beautiful locations to elope. From thick mossy forests to epic mountain vistas to rugged coastlines, it really does have it all. Whether you want to hike in 10 miles to a peak that you climbed together or take a short stroll into to a waterfall, there’s no shortage of options.

BEST ELOPEMENT LOCATIONS IN WASHINGTON STATE

Mt Rainier National Park

Glaciers, rivers, miles of trails and an incredible wildflower season, Mt Rainier has almost everything you could need for the perfect elopement location. The prominent peak is visible from many areas of western Washington, forever reminding you of your special day together. A few wonderful locations within the park include Tipsoo Lake, Paradise, and Sunrise. Note that not all roads through Mt Rainier remain open year round.  

Olympic National Park

Rugged coastlines, a temperate rainforest, and sweeping mountain vistas make up the more remote Olympic National Park. Other highlights include hot spring hikes, waterfalls, and tide pool exploring. There is adventure getting to Olympic National Park as well, as you may take a ferry or drive up the coast if coming from Seattle. 

North Cascades National Park

There’s a reason we call this the Washington Alps. If you’re looking for jagged peaks, wandering trails, and turquoise alpine lakes, North Cascades might be the perfect location to elope. You can find many beautiful elopement locations just off the side of the road, as views are endless here. You can also really get after it with some of the most challenging hikes in Washington. While the Mountain Loop Highway closes in winter, Mt Baker is a close-by highlight, with a full ski resort and snowshoeing trails in winter.   4. Snoqualmie Pass Closest to the city of Seattle, Snoqualmie Pass offers incredible elopement locations without having to drive very far from a major city. Snoqualmie Pass can be a great year-round option – beautiful and accessible in the snow, lush and mountainous in the summer with short and long hikes abound.  

Leavenworth

Leavenworth is a quaint alpine town east of the Cascades. Not only does it offer some fun places to stay after you elope (think darling cabins and AirBnBs amidst a Bavarian village), but it has some of the most epic hiking trails around, including the famed Enchantments. If you’re up for an adventure but also want a cute mountain town nearby, Leavenworth is a great location.  

Washington State Parks

You don’t have to travel far for gorgeous scenery in Washington. There are so many hidden gems located a short drive from wherever you are in Washington. Washington State Parks have scenery ranging from beaches on Puget Sound to island forests to lush forested hiking trails. Whatever scenery you’re looking for, there’s sure to be an incredible option for you.   Ready to start chatting about your elopement? As an elopement and adventure wedding photographer, I’m excited to jumpstart the planning process for you. Get in touch.