18 Best Places to Elope in Oregon in 2023 [Elopement Guide]

Oregon is one of the most diverse places in the United States and one of the best places for elopements. While Oregon is most notably famous for its epic coastline, it also has dense forests, snow-covered mountains, and colorful deserts. It’s no surprise thousands of couples make their way out West each year to elope in Oregon. Aside from its scenery, you can find some of the best night-life activities and restaurants in Portland, thrift shops in Eugene, and even cute scenic shops in Sisters. Oh, and don’t forget about all the amazing airbnbs, adventurous activities, and art the entire state has to offer. There is truly something for everyone here!

If you’re looking to plan an Oregon elopement, look no further. This guide covers everything you would ever need to know about how to elope in Oregon. Whether you’re looking for the best places to elope in Oregon, marriage license information, or best time of year to elope, I’ve got you covered.

The 18 Best Places to Elope in Oregon

The Oregon Coast

The Oregon Coast is arguably one of the most breathtaking coastal lines in the U.S. As a photographer who purely specializes in elopements along the West Coast, the Oregon Coast is hands-down my favorite coast. There are a variety of different elopement locations from south to north, all of which are unique and vastly different from each other. A majority of couples looking to elope in Oregon tend to gravitate towards an Oregon Coast elopement.

Ecola State Park

Ecola State Park is one of my all-time favorite Oregon Coast elopement locations. This park has a plethora of different beaches, hiking trails, and overlooks. One of my favorite locations in Ecola State Park is Indian Beach, a small beach where the forest meets the ocean and surfers can be seen for miles. Fun fact, this beach was actually used as a filming location in Twilight! Certain areas of the park are busier than others, but with over 9 miles to explore, it’s easy to find a secluded spot for your elopement.

Heceta Head Lighthouse

Heceta Head Lighthouse is one of the most photographed places in Oregon. The lighthouse is located between the coastal towns of Florence and Yachats. While the lighthouse is popular, this area of the coast tends to be very underrated and much less touristy than the rest. Not only are the views from the lighthouse incredible, but there’s also a nearby beach, forest trail, and picturesque bridge. The variety and scenery here is amazing!

Oregon Redwoods

While it may come as a surprise, the Oregon Coast does have Redwoods! You can find groves of Redwoods in Southern Oregon near the border of California. I have a few secret spots up my sleeve I love showing my couples. This is the perfect place to elope if you’re hoping to see a variety of different landscapes on your special day. Like I said, this area is a true hidden gem!

God’s Thumb

God’s Thumb has grown in popularity over the years, but it continues to still be one of the most breathtaking places along the coast. The 4.3 roundtrip mile hike isn’t for the faint of heart, but the views make the trek well worth it. At the top, you’ll be wowed by the views of the ocean, wildflower meadows, and wildlife. Due to the small trail, elopements with over 2 people are not recommended. I would also not recommend this trail if you’re afraid of heights.

Cape Kiwanda

Cape Kiwanda is one of the best beaches for an Oregon Coast elopement. Cape Kiwanda is known for being one of the best places to watch the waves crash and have a bonfire. There is a huge sand dune you can climb up to get a beautiful view of the ocean and rock formations that lay in the water. The beach is usually fairly busy, but even if you don’t choose this spot for your elopement, it’s well worth the visit.

Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor

Located in Southern Oregon, Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is 12 miles of pure cliffsides. There are incredible rock formations and overlooks in the area, most of which require zero hiking. If you’re up for a small hike though, you can find some epic secluded beaches and overlooks. Samuel H. Boardman is also very close to Redwood National Park, perfect for couples looking to experience multiple locations on their wedding day.

Cannon Beach

The iconic Haystack Rock pictured below can be found at the popular Cannon Beach, one of the best places to elope in Oregon and the most popular Oregon Coast elopement location. The beach itself is very large but tends to get crowded near the rock. However, there are a variety of “secret” beaches nearby that would be great options if you’re looking for something less crowded.

Columbia River Gorge + Portland

Columbia River Gorge is a popular destination near Portland known for its variety of waterfalls, hiking trails, and outdoor activities. Its close proximity to Portland makes this area a great spot for couples hoping to experience both the beauty of nature and fun nightlife of the city. Below are some of my favorite elopement locations in both the Columbia River Gorge and Portland area.

Silver Falls State Park

Silver Falls State Park, while technically located south of Portland, was a location I just had to add to this list. Silver Falls State Park is called the “crown jewel” of Oregon. It’s most famous for its 177-foot waterfall, South Falls, that visitors can actually walk behind. The park has over 35 miles of hiking trails, 10 waterfalls, and endless views.

Mount Hood

Oregon’s largest mountain, Mount Hood, is the perfect location for couples looking to escape the city and get outside. Multiple hiking trails, Airbnbs, and activities make this one of the best places to elope in Oregon. Rent a kayak and hit the waters or visit in the winter and hit the slopes. Either way, you’ll fall in the love with the beauty Mount Hood has to offer. This is another super busy location, especially in the summer, so be sure to plan accordingly.

Check out my Mt. Hood elopement guide here!

Latourell Falls

Latourell Falls is a small waterfall located just an hour from Portland. It’s a 3-mile roundtrip hike to and from the falls. This waterfall is known to be very photogenic, making it fairly popular amongst photographers and couples. There are many areas along the 3-mile trail that are perfect for photos. This location is crowded in the summer months, so plan your elopement for the spring or fall season.

Dog Mountain

Dog Mountain has one of the most beautiful views of the Columbia River Gorge. This trail is most beautiful during the spring or fall months. At the top, you can find wildflower meadows, pine trees, and of course, breathtaking views. The hike is 5.1 miles roundtrip and known to be quite difficult. However, if you’re up for challenge, I promise the views are worth it! This trail is technically in Washington, but it’s just across the bridge!

Hoyt Arboretum

One of my all-time favorite places to elope in Oregon is located in Washington Park. The Hoyt Arboretum has four different ceremony locations all filled with extravagant Redwoods, Sequoias, and Douglas fir trees. My favorite location for elopements is the Redwood Deck. There are miles of hiking trails and places to explore throughout the arboretum. Plus, it’s a great spot for elopements with friends and family.

Central + Eastern Oregon

Very different from other areas of Oregon, Central and Eastern Oregon have a variety of beautiful lakes, waterfalls, and desert-like locations. This area of Oregon is known to be much more hiker-focused and outdoorsy. However, it continues to be one of the most underrated places in the state. After seeing some of the locations on this list, you’ll be wondering why more people aren’t venturing out to see this side of Oregon.

Sister

Sisters, Oregon is one of my favorite towns out West. With a population of only 2,000 people, Sisters is an artsy community with majestic beauty. Sisters is surrounded by mountains, the most prominent being Mount Washington. There are a variety of different peaks to climb and sights to see. I cannot emphasize enough just how stunning this area is.

Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake National Park is not only Oregon’s only national park, but it’s also one of the most famous, specifically for its beautiful deep blue water. There are a few hiking trails around the area, as well as some accessible overlooks for elopements. There isn’t much to see or do in the park itself (other from the lake), so I recommend venturing out to the nearby mountain towns to do some more exploring.

Sahalie Falls

One of my favorite waterfalls in Oregon, Sahalie Falls, is located on a 2.6 mile loop that features another waterfall, Koosah Falls. This unique area is one of the best places to elope in Oregon! Located close to Bend, this is just one of the many different waterfalls you can see near the well-known hiker town.

Sparks Lake

Sparks Lake is a calm and relaxing lake located near Bend. The lake is known for its beautiful reflections, mountain backdrops, and small forests. It’s popular during the summer, so I recommend visiting in the fall or spring. This is also a great place to do some kayaking, paddle-boarding, or even picnicking for your elopement.

Lower image taken by Danny Walden.

Smith Rock State Park

Smith Rock Smith Park is a famous spot for climbers, hikers, and mountain bikers. These unique rock formations make the perfect backdrop in any photo. If you love the desert, this is one of the most popular and best places to elope in Oregon. I personally love this area in the winter months when there’s a light coating of snow on the peaks and not as many crowds.

Painted Hills

If you love unique and one-of-a-kind locations, Painted Hills is the spot for you. The natural colors of red, gold, and black are unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. There’s truly nothing out there like this natural wonder. You may have seen a specific spot of this location on Instagram, but there are so many more hidden gems around the park.