Hurricane Ridge really does check all the boxes: it’s super accessible (no hiking required), perfect for larger groups, close to town, and offers some of the most jaw-dropping mountain views in Washington. Oh, and we can’t forget about the cutest party crashers—I mean the deer who can be found all over the mountain. So when Jordan and Braden reached out to me about wanting to plan an elopement at Hurricane Ridge, I was over the moon.
These two had never been to the Pacific Northwest before, but they had been following me on Instagram for awhile and saw how much I raved about Olympic. After seeing the scenery and hearing about how underrated this national park is for elopements, they reached out and we immediately got to planning.
Jordan and Braden had a few key things in mind for their elopement: mountains, a catered meal, and an activity to share with their friends and family. And that’s exactly what they got. They had their ceremony at Hurricane Ridge, a beautifully styled and catered lunch at a stunning Airbnb overlooking the Elwha River, and a bonfire on the beach with their loved ones. To top it all off, they got a front-row seat to Olympic’s wildlife (hello, deer!) and had the chance to explore everything this incredible park has to offer.
Before we dive in, let me give you a quick rundown of some key points about the area and how to elope at Hurricane Ridge (just in case you’re curious, wink, wink).
Hurricane Ridge Elopement Information
- BEST TIME OF YEAR TO ELOPE: June, September, and October are the best months. Personally, I love this location in June or early October to avoid crowds, have nice weather, and still see snow on the mountains. However, always be prepared for unpredictable weather. Due to the higher elevation, thick fog, snow, and rain are common at Hurricane Ridge.
- HIKING REQUIRED: No, hiking is not required, but there are plenty of trails to explore if you’re up for an adventure. Some of my favorites include Hurricane Hill and Sunrise Viewpoint.
- CLOSEST TOWN: Port Angeles (about a 40-minute drive).
- CROWD LEVEL: Busy, especially during the summer months. Plan for a sunrise or sunset elopement to avoid the crowds.
- PET-FRIENDLY: No.
- PERMIT REQUIRED: Yes, a $50 permit is required if you have more than 5 people at your elopement (this includes the couple, photographer, etc.). No permit is needed for groups of fewer than 5.
- IMPORTANT INFORMATION: A $30 national park pass is required to access Hurricane Ridge. You can purchase one at the ranger station on the way up. Hurricane Ridge is also open on weekends only, weather permitting, from late October to May due to snow.
I have an entire Olympic National Park elopement guide that covers all things permits, locations, and more if you want to learn more about the park! And if that’s not enough, I have other elopements I photographed in the park at places like Ruby Beach and Lake Crescent you can check out!
- Photographer: Me!
- Tablescape Designer, Rentals, and Florals: Celebrations for Every Season
- Private Chef: Impeccable Chef
- Hair and Makeup: Anne Timss
Hurricane Ridge Elopement Packages
If you’ve imagined eloping at Hurricane Ridge or somewhere else in Olympic, you’re exactly where you need to be! I’m Brianna. I specialize in elopements and microweddings around Olympic National Park. Whether you need guidance on how to apply for a permit, want to know the best hidden gem spots for your ceremony, or simply need a list of the best vendors in the area, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Check out my elopement packages to get started planning your once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
- 4 hours – 2 days of elopement coverage anywhere in Washington
- 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 to anywhere in Washington are already included
- Starting at $8,000
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 you’re with and ask, “Are you seeing this?” I live for it. Places with trees and mountains and soft breezes that make you say, “I can’t believe this place exists,” 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 you’re the kind of person who also feels more at home surrounded by trees than by people? Then we’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 ahead…
(I promise you won’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.
