Looking for the best place to elope in the U.S.? You’re about to find it! From Maineโ€™s rugged coastline to the snow-capped peaks of Alaska, the options can feel endless. With so many stunning locations, choosing the perfect “I do” spot can be overwhelmingโ€”but thatโ€™s where I come in. After traveling across the country and capturing some of the worldโ€™s most beautiful elopements, Iโ€™ve compiled a list of the absolute best spots to say your vows. Whether youโ€™re deep in the planning process or just looking for inspiration, youโ€™re in the right place. These are the 15 best places to elope in the U.S. that are sure to take your breath away.

15 Best Places to Elope in the U.S.

From Washington Stateโ€™s rugged coastline to the vibrant fall colors of Upstate New York, the U.S. is home to some of the most diverse and breathtaking elopement destinations. These happen to be the 15 best.

Washington State

From the towering, snow-capped peaks of the Cascades to the foggy, rugged coastline of the Olympic Peninsula, Washington State is a treasure trove of places to elope. Whether you’re dreaming of a mountaintop ceremony, a bonfire by the beach, or vows in a mossy forest, Washington has it all. Here are the top spots to say “I do” in Washington that will leave you speechless. For more locations, check out my full Washington elopement guide.

Olympic National Park

If you’re looking for no-hiking-required ceremony locations, a variety of landscapes, and guaranteed wildlife sightings, Olympic National Park is the place to elope. It’s the most diverse national park in the U.S. Seriously, folks, you’ll find every kind of landscape you can imagineโ€”mountains, rainforests, beaches, and the list goes on. For this reason alone, Olympic National Park tops the list as one of the best places to elope in the U.S.

Best Places to Elope
  • Hurricane Ridge – The highest mountain location in Olympic. Tons of hiking trails, deer, and wildflower meadows.
  • Hoh Rainforest – One of the last remaining temperate rainforests on Earth. Mossy, magical, and just 45 minutes from the beach.
  • Ruby Beach – A rocky beach with huge sea stacks and incredible sunsets. It’s also dog-friendly.
Best Time of Year to Elope

April-October. Olympic National Park is open year-round and, unlike many other parks, snow-free during the winter months in most locations. May and October are my two favorite months.

Pros of Eloping in Olympic
  • Variety of different landscapes for photos
  • A ton of accessible locations (no hiking required)
  • Multiple ceremony options for larger groups
  • Variety of different hiking trails
  • Consistent wildlife sightings
  • One of the more quiet national parks compared to others in Washington
  • Snow-free in most locations during the winter
  • Accessible year-round
  • Close to well developed towns with lodging and activities
Cons of Eloping in Olympic
  • Weather can be unpredictable in the off-season
  • Itโ€™s a large park with long driving distances between locations
  • Popular locations may have lines to enter for parking

North Cascades National Park

North Cascades National Park, known as the “Swiss Alps of America,” is one of the best places to elope in the U.S. If you’re looking for the best mountain location, you just found it. Whether you’re an outdoorsy couple who loves to hit the trails or are looking for no-hiking-required mountain views, the Cascades have you covered. Not to mention all the lakes, meadows, and forests in the area too!

Best Places to Elope
  • Artist Point – An accessible, drive-up location with 360 degree mountain views. The most popular location for elopements.
  • Diablo Lake – A stunning, glacier-fed lake known for its vibrant turquoise color.
  • Washington Pass Overlook – Wheelchair accessible trail offering breathtaking panoramic views of the jagged peaks, valleys, and glaciers.
Best Time of Year to Elope

August-early October. The park is closed most of the year due to snow. Visit in August for wildflowers or during September-October to experience fall colors like you’ve never seen them before.

Pros of Eloping in North Cascades
  • The mountain views are incredible
  • Diverse scenery
  • Lots of wildlife
  • Multiple hiking trails to explore
  • Super dog-friendly in certain locations
  • Not as crowded as other national parks
Cons of Eloping in North Cascades
  • This is a popular spot for wedding photos; you’re likely to run into another couple
  • Very remote with limited lodging and activities
  • Limited accessible locations; many require a short hike

Mount Rainier National Park

I couldn’t talk about Washington without talking about Mount Rainier National Park. Known for wildflower meadows, scenic hiking trails, and stunning mountain views, Mt. Rainier offers a plethora of different locations to choose from. From easy strolls to more strenuous hikes, Mt. Rainier is a great spot for couples of all ages who love mountain scenery.

Best Places to Elope
  • Tipsoo Lake – One of the most popular and accessible alpine lakes in the park. No hiking required.
  • Tolmie Peak Trail – In my opinion, this is the most breathtaking fire lookout in Mount Rainier.
  • Silver Forest Trail – An easy trail lined with wildflower meadows at the base of the mountain.
Best Time of Year to Elope

August-September. August is wildflower season in the park. I like the month of September for fall colors less crowds.

Pros of Eloping in Mount Rainier
  • The mountain views are incredible
  • Diverse scenery
  • Wildlife sightings are common
  • Multiple hiking trails to explore
  • Good handful of no-hiking-required ceremony locations
  • Can accommodate larger groups for ceremonies
  • Close to Seattle
  • Lots of wildflowers in the summer
Cons of Eloping in Mount Rainier
  • This is a popular spot for wedding photos; you’re likely to run into another couple
  • Timed entry reservations are required to enter the park during the summer months
  • Busiest national park in Washington
  • Ceremony permits book quickly

California

Californiaโ€™s got it all when it comes to epic elopement spots. From golden beaches and towering redwoods to desert landscapes and mountain vistas, the state offers some seriously diverse backdrops for your big day. Plus, with great weather year-round, itโ€™s one of the best places to elope in the U.S. no matter the time of year. Whatever scenery you’re dreaming of, Californiaโ€™s ready to make it happen. Looking for more location? You can see 15+ more locations to choose from in my California elopement guide.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park, while recognizably one of the most popular national parks in the U.S., is surprisingly one of the biggest hidden gems. This park has not only incredible Redwood groves, but also rugged coastlines, elk meadows, and rivers. With consistent temperatures year-round, the Redwoods make a great option. If you value privacy for your day, I can’t recommend the Redwood area enough.

Best Places to Elope
  • Templeman Grove – This unsuspecting grove is rarely visited by tourists. Right next to the Smith River.
  • Stout Grove – A large Redwood grove along the Smith River. Made a cameo in Star Wars: Return of the Jedi.
  • Crescent Beach – A long stretch of beach where the forest meets the ocean. Dog-friendly too!
Best Time of Year to Elope

April-May or September-October. Redwood National Park is open and snow-free year-round.

Pros of Eloping in the Redwoods
  • Diverse scenery
  • Plethora of accessible ceremony locations
  • Lots of wildlife sightings
  • Snow-free year-round
  • Little to no crowds compared to other national parks
  • Lots of dog-friendly locations
  • Consistent temperatures year-round
  • Minutes away from the Oregon Coast
Cons of Eloping in the Redwoods
  • Fairly remote; requires a long drive from the airport to get there
  • Limited vendor options

Mt. Shasta

Mt. Shasta is one of those places I can’t help but bring up to couples looking for a mountain location without the crowds. I live just an hour away from this hidden gem, and while I want this location to stay small, I can’t deny that it’s one of the best places to elope in the U.S. Waterfalls, mountain views, and lakes await.

Best Places to Elope
  • Mt. Shasta Ski Park – There are dozens of hiking trails, wildflower fields, and forests right at the base of the mountain.
  • Lake Siskiyou – Known as the “jewel of Northern California,” this lake has an awesome view of Mt. Shasta. Great for larger ceremonies.
  • Castle Crags State Park – A scenic park with mountain views, 28 miles of trails, various campsites, and a river.
Best Time of Year to Elope

May-June and October-November. This location gets fairly hot during the summer months.

Pros of Eloping in Mt. Shasta
  • Diverse scenery
  • Accessible ceremony locations
  • Very little to no crowds compared to all other locations
  • Lots of dog-friendly places
  • Just 1.5 hours away from Lassen Volcanic National Park
  • This mountain spot is snow-free for much longer than other mountain locations
Cons of Eloping in Mt. Shasta
  • Fairly remote; not a ton to do in the area aside from outdoor activities
  • Some of the best viewpoints require a bit of hiking

Joshua Tree National Park

If you’re a fan of desert landscapes and wide open spaces, Joshua Tree National Park has just what you’re looking for. The park is huge, and each area of the park has something different to offer. It’s like a giant playground for adults. You don’t have to worry about being cold hereโ€”summer temperatures can be experienced year-round.

Best Places to Elope
  • Cap Rock – Joshua Tree’s most famous spot, Cap Rock, is a unique cluster of rock formations sitting in an open field.
  • Hidden Valley Picnic Area – This is one of my personal favorite places to elope in the park. Lots of boulders, trees, and open space for walking.
  • Indian Cove Amphitheater – The spot to elope if you’re having a microwedding. This location holds up to 100 people.
Best Time of Year to Elope

October and November. Avoid this location in the summer to prevent heatstroke.

Pros of Eloping in Joshua Tree
  • Accessible ceremony locations
  • Little crowds compared to other national parks
  • Can accommodate elopements with larger guest counts
  • Very close to large cities
  • Amazing stargazing location
Cons of Eloping in Joshua Tree
  • Extreme heat
  • Not a ton of variety in landscapes

Big Sur

Big Sur is a popular elopement location for couples looking to experience all the best of what Northern California has to offer. From sandy beaches and dramatic cliff overlooks, to Redwood groves and waterfalls, Big Sur is one of the most diverse, luxurious, and best places to elope in the U.S.

Best Places to Elope
  • Pfeiffer Beach – A famous beach known for its iconic keyhole arch and purple sand.
  • Andrew Molera State Park – This park has some incredible hiking trails surrounding the coastal cliffs of Big Sur. Known for its wildflowers.
  • Glen Oaks Big Sur – An elopement and wedding venue located right in the middle of Big Surโ€™s towering Redwoods.
Best Time of Year to Elope

September-November. March-May is also another incredible time of year to visit.

Pros of Eloping in Big Sur
  • Diverse scenery
  • Accessible ceremony locations
  • Not as busy as other locations in California
  • Snow-free year-round
  • Close to towns with lodging and activities
  • Great honeymoon location
Cons of Eloping in Big Sur
  • Fairly remote; requires a long drive from the airport to get there
  • Landslides are not uncommon which close down the main highway
  • Much more expensive permit costs and lodging compared to other locations

Yosemite National Park

I couldn’t make a list of the best places to elope in the U.S. and not include Yosemite National Park. Yosemite is one of (if not) the most popular national park in the country. It has some of the most spectacular scenery in the world and offers tons of variety for couples. When you think of national parks, you probably think of Yosemite.

Best Places to Elope
  • Taft Point – This iconic proposal spot takes the cake as being one of the most grand locations in Yosemite.
  • El Capitan Meadow – A gorgeous, accessible meadow at the base of the cliffs, perfect for elopements with guests.
  • Tunnel View – You can’t beat Yosemite’s iconic Tunnel View. An overlook of the valley and the famous Bridalveil Fall.
Best Time of Year to Elope

September-October for weather and crowd control.

Pros of Eloping in Yosemite
  • Iconic and diverse scenery
  • Accessible ceremony locations
  • Can accommodate large groups (up to 100)
  • Tons of hiking trails
Cons of Eloping in Yosemite
  • This is a popular spot for wedding photos; you’re likely to run into another couple
  • Extremely busy year-round
  • Sometimes requires timed entry reservations in the summer
  • About an hours drive away from lodging

Oregon

Oregon is a fantastic choice for an elopement if you love a mix of outdoor and indoor activities. From the dramatic Oregon Coast to the lush forests and waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge, thereโ€™s no shortage of locations to choose from. Plus, itโ€™s less crowded than most locations on this list, so you can enjoy some privacy while still being surrounded by amazing scenery. I’ve got an entire guide about how to elope in Oregon with more location options you can check out here.

Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor

Samuel H. Boardman is located in the tiny town of Brookings, Oregon on the Southern Coast. This hidden gem is the ultimate elopement location for couples who love the Oregon Coast, but don’t love the crowds (I’m looking at you, Cannon Beach). Experience everything the Oregon Coast has to offer and some in Samuel H. Boardman.

Best Places to Elope
  • Secret Beach – A beach packed with giant sea stacks, seasonal waterfalls, and sweeping views.
  • Whaleshead Beach – A beach known for its rock formation that looks like a whale head. Lots of room for a ceremony.
  • Cape Ferrelo – An incredible birdโ€™s-eye view of Lone Ranch Beach. Tons of room for a ceremony.
Best Time of Year to Elope

April-May or September-October. Samuel H. Boardman is open and snow-free year-round.

Pros of Eloping in Samuel H. Boardman
  • Diverse scenery
  • Minutes away from Redwood National Park
  • Snow-free year-round
  • Little to no crowds
  • Lots of dog-friendly locations
Cons of Eloping in Samuel H. Boardman
  • Fairly remote; requires a long drive from the airport to get there
  • Limited vendor options

Wyoming

Wyoming is the place to be if youโ€™re after wide-open spaces and mountain backdrops. Iconic spots like Grand Teton and Yellowstone are perfect for elopements and honeymoons. Whether youโ€™re saying your vows in a meadow, by a waterfall, or with wildlife in the background, Wyoming is sure to make it feel extra special.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park has exploded in popularity the past few years, especially with couples looking for easy and accessible mountain location. You’ll not only be surrounded by the jagged peaks, but you can experience swimming in lakes, camping under the stars, and even seeing a moose or two.

Best Places to Elope
  • Mormon Row – A beautiful area with wide open views of the mountain range near the beginning of the park.
  • Schwabacherโ€™s Landing – This is the most popular elopement location in Grand Teton. One of the most scenic mountain backdrops with lots of wildlife sightings.
  • Mountain View Turnout – A turnout at the base of the mountains, perfect for elopements with guests.
Best Time of Year to Elope

June, September, and October are good for weather and minimal crowds.

Pros of Eloping in the Tetons
  • Diverse scenery
  • Accessible ceremony locations
  • Lots of wildlife sightings
  • Close to town for lodging and activities
Cons of Eloping in the Tetons
  • Fairly remote; requires a long drive from the airport to get there
  • Ceremony permits book quickly
  • Higher permit and lodging costs compared to other locations

Alaska

You can’t think of an elopement without thinking of Alaska. If you want a truly rugged, off-the-beaten-path location, Alaska should be at the top of your list. Whether you want to say your vows under the Northern Lights or take a helicopter and land on top of a glacier, Alaska truly has it all and is *the* spot to be if you’re looking for a location without the crowds.

Whittier

Similar to the Oregon Coast, it’s hard to choose just one place in Alaska for elopements. However, if I had to pick, I think Whittier would take the cake. This small town along the bay is famous for its glaciers, lakes, and wildlife. Its landscapes make this one of the best places to elope in the U.S.

Best Places to Elope
  • Portage Pass – One of the most breathtaking views of the Passage Canal. Walk a bit further to Portage Glacier, one of the most accessible glaciers in Alaska.
  • Lu Young Public Beach – If you’re looking for an accessible location for elopements with friends and family, Lu Young is the perfect spot. No hiking and incredible views.
  • Moose Flats Wetland – Another accessible location with killer views of the nearby mountain range.
Best Time of Year to Elope

July-October is the best time of year to elope in Whittier.

Pros of Eloping in Whittier
  • Diverse scenery
  • Accessible ceremony locations
  • Wildlife sightings
  • Little to no crowds
  • Lots of dog-friendly locations
  • Great honeymoon location
  • Close to towns with lodging and activities
  • Offers a ton of unique, once-in-a-lifetime excursions
Cons of Eloping in Whittier
  • Fairly remote; requires a long flight and drive to get to Alaska
  • To get to Whittier, you have to drive through a tunnel thatโ€™s only open at certain times of the day

Hawaii

Hawaii is the perfect spot if you’re looking to combine your elopement and honeymoon in one. Whether you’re saying your vows on a beach, in a lush rainforest, or near a dramatic waterfall, Hawaiiโ€™s got a backdrop for every kind of couple. The islands offer a mix of adventure and relaxationโ€”hike to a volcano, explore secret coves, or just kick back by the ocean. I have an entire Hawaii elopement guide with more locations, permit information, and other good stuff that you can check out here.

Kauai

Kauai is hands down my favorite Hawaiian island (so, yeah, Iโ€™m a little biased), but I truly think itโ€™s the best spot for an elopement. Itโ€™s super lush and green, there’s a ton of fun excursions to do, and the beaches are incredible. It’s not as well developed as the other islands which means it’s a lot more nature focused (more locations to choose from).

Best Places to Elope
  • Waimea Canyon – While ceremonies aren’t allowed at Waimea Canyon, pictures are. This state park is famous for its red dirt waterfalls, sweeping canyon views, and sunsets.
  • Hanalei Pier and Beach – This is one of Kauai’s most popular beaches. Walk on the pier or relax on the sand.
  • Wailua River State Park – Wailua River is famous for its lush greens, rushing waterfalls, and colorful flowers.
Best Time of Year to Elope

Kauai is best visited during April, May, or late September-early October.

Pros of Eloping in Hawaii
  • Diverse scenery
  • Accessible ceremony locations
  • Snow-free year-round
  • Consistent temperatures year-round
  • Lots of indoor and outdoor activities
  • Great honeymoon location
  • Close to towns with lodging and activities
Cons of Eloping in Hawaii
  • Limited ceremony location options
  • Permits take a long time to get
  • Fairly popular year-round

Maine

Maine is one of those places that just feels magical, especially during the fall season. This underrated state is home to some of the most breathtaking coastlines in the country. Dine on lobster, explore a lighthouse, or catch a famous sunrise. Beyond the coast, you’ll find stunning forests with vibrant fall foliage, peaceful lakes, and hidden trails. It’s probably the most charming place on this list for an elopement.

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park takes the cake as being one of the most charming national parks in the U.S. Despite its popularity, there are so many different nooks and crannies to be explored. You’ll find rocky coastlines, forests, lighthouses, and mountaintops in Acadia.

Best Places to Elope
  • Otter Cliffย – One of the best coastal locations in the park. This particular spot is well known for its boulders and waves.
  • Cadillac Mountainย – The most popular spot in the park to watch a sunrise. The views here are breathtaking.
  • Schoodic Pointย – An underrated cliffside location, great for wave watching.
Best Time of Year to Elope

Early June or the end of August for crowd control. September or October for fall colors, but it’s busy!

Pros of Eloping in Acadia
  • Diverse scenery
  • Accessible ceremony locations
  • One of the most dog-friendly national parks
  • Stunning fall colors
  • Can accommodate larger group sizes
Cons of Eloping in Acadia
  • Fairly remote; requires longer travel to reach
  • A bit more popular than other national parks

Utah

Utah is one of those states you land in and say โ€œwow.โ€ If youโ€™re looking for something bold, I can’t recommend Utah enough. The parks here are like no other, with towering rock formations, deep canyons, and starry skies. Whether you’re saying your vows in the middle of an epic arch or on a mountain peak, the views in Utah are sure to take your breath away.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a desert lovers dream. It’s known for its stunning red cliffs, canyons, and epic views. Whether youโ€™re hiking to Angels Landing or saying your vows in a quiet spot by the Virgin River, Zion truly has something for everyone.

Best Places to Elope
  • Canyon Overlook – You can’t have a ceremony here, but this portrait location is a crowd favorite. Sweeping views of the valley.
  • The Narrows – Hike one of the most iconic trails in the country. Experience what it’s like to hike through a canyon.
  • Nature Center North Lawn – An accessible ceremony spot with a great view that can accommodate up to 50 people.
Best Time of Year to Elope

April-May or September-October.

Pros of Eloping in Zion
  • Diverse scenery
  • Accessible ceremony locations
  • Lots of famous hiking trails and overlooks
  • Close to other national parks
  • Close to towns with lodging and activities
Cons of Eloping in Zion
  • This is a popular spot for wedding photos; you’re likely to run into another couple
  • Limited ceremony location options
  • Very popular year-round
  • You have to take a shuttle to get to specific locations in the park during busy season

Montana

You didn’t think I would forget Montana, did you? If you’re the kind of couple who loves to travel and doesn’t mind being in remote locations, Montana might just be the perfect place for you. Despite its well known reputation for having jaw-dropping mountain locations, it’s also home to some of the most incredible plains, lakes, and rivers around.

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Parkย is one of the best places to elope in the U.S. if you’re after a mountain location with a whole lot of variety. If you’re a big hiker, you’ll love this little slice of heaven. While Glacier is a little bit more strict when it comes to weddings, it’s still one worth being considered.

Best Places to Elope
  • Lake McDonaldย – The largest lake in the park known for its colorful rocks.
  • Loganโ€™s Pass – An accessible location with sweeping views of the nearby mountain range. It’s particularly beautiful during sunrise.
  • Bowman Lakeย – One of the more secluded locations in the park, perfect for private ceremonies.
Best Time of Year to Elope

Late September or early October.

Pros of Eloping in Glacier
  • Diverse scenery
  • Accessible ceremony locations
  • Wildlife sightings
  • Tons of wildflowers in the summer
Cons of Eloping in Glacier
  • This is a popular spot for wedding photos; you’re likely to run into another couple
  • Can’t accommodate large groups
  • Fairly remote; requires longer travel to reach

U.S. Elopement Packages

Now that youโ€™ve seen some of the best spots to elope in the U.S. (and maybe picked one!), itโ€™s time to start turning those dreams into reality. Iโ€™m Brianna, a Pacific Northwest elopement photographer, and Iโ€™m here to help you plan the most unforgettable day, whether youโ€™re tying the knot in the Pacific Northwest or beyond. This place is my home, and I can’t wait to share my favorite secret spots with you to make your elopement uniquely yours. Letโ€™s make it happen!

  • 4 hours โ€“ 2 daysย of elopement coverage anywhere in the U.S.
  • A personalized elopement planning experience with unlimited assistance
    • Personalized elopement location recommendations
    • Vendor, lodging, and activity recommendations
    • Assistance and information to help you with permits, licenses, etc.
    • 90+ page elopement planning guide filled with tips and tricks
    • Customized elopement timelines
  • Optional complimentary officiant services
  • Online gallery with full resolution images and printing rights
  • 24-48 hour sneak peeks to share with the world
  • Travel fees toย anywhereย in the U.S. are already included
  • Starting at $8,000

Still need some more inspiration? Check out some of my most popular elopement guides, including my national park wedding venue guide, my Olympic National Park elopement guide, and a list of the best places to elope in Washington State.

Don’t forget your FREE elopement guide!

An all-in-one planning guide for all things elopements! Whether you’re hoping to hike through the mountains of Washington or sip a margarita on the beaches of California, this comprehensive elopement guide has everything you need to know about how to plan the perfect elopement.


You? You’re the kind of person that gets a lil’ teary eyed looking at an epic view…

That moment when you turn to the person youโ€™re with and ask, โ€œAre you seeing this?โ€ I live for it. Places with trees and mountains and soft breezes that make you say, โ€œI canโ€™t believe this place exists,โ€ I spend pretty much all of my free time searching for and exploring them.

These places have always felt like home to me. And if youโ€™re the kind of person who also feels more at home surrounded by trees than by people? Then weโ€™ll get along really well. The Pacific Northwest is full of secret spots that are too special to share with just anyone. But it would make me happy to share them with you on your wedding day.

If the mountains/beaches/redwood forests are calling your name, go aheadโ€ฆ

(I promise you wonโ€™t regret it.)

P.S. I’m Brianna. My mission is to create custom, one-of-a-kind elopement experiences in the Pacific Northwest that allow couples to fully immerse themselves in the highest levels of excitement and wonder on a day designed exclusively for them.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *