The Pacific Northwest, more commonly referred to as the PNW, is one of the most unique and diverse places in the world. The PNW is home to over 14 different national parks, forests, and monuments. It’s most notably known for is beautiful landscapes, like fog-covered forests, mountains shielded by glaciers, green wildflower meadows, and crystal clear alpine lakes. Whether you’re set on a PNW elopement or exploring the possibility of one, you’ve come to the right place.

As a PNW-based elopement photographer, I created this in-depth guide to help you plan your very own elopement in the Pacific Northwest. In this guide, you’ll learn about the best places to elope in the Pacific Northwest, must-know tips, where to stay, and so much more. Let’s dive in.

Where Is the PNW?

While many people have different definitions of what makes up the Pacific Northwest, the image shown here is pretty spot on. The PNW includes Southeast Alaska, Washington State, Oregon, Northern California, and parts of both Montana and Idaho. However, most people (myself included), mainly consider Oregon and Washington to be the Pacific Northwest.

For the sake of this guide, I will be including locations from Alaska, Washington, Oregon, and Northern California.

12 Best Places to Elope In the PNW

Your location options are truly endless when it comes to the PNW. Whether you love the mountains or the beach, there is truly something for everyone in this little corner of the world. Without further adieu, these are the 12 best places to elope in the Pacific Northwest.

North Cascades National Park

North Cascades National Park, also known as the “Swiss Alps of America,” is one of the most epic places for a PNW elopement. This is one of the least visited national parks in the United States. Other than its sweeping mountain views, North Cascades is known for their glaciers, alpine lakes, and hundreds of miles of hiking trails (400 miles to be exact). If you love mountains, this location is guaranteed to take your breath away. Oh, and it’s only 3 hours from Seattle! North Cascades is best visited during the summer and short fall season.

Best Elopement Locations in North Cascades National Park

Best Time of Year to Elope in North Cascades National Park

Due to its high elevation, most of the park is only accessible from August-early October. My personal favorite time to visit is during the second week of October. The fall colors are incredible.

Permit Information

The permit to elope here is $50. You can receive an application by emailing the park. Learn more about obtaining a permit on the official NPS site here.

Additional Resources

If you want more detailed information about the park, check out my North Cascades National Park Elopement Guide!

Olympic National Park

I’m a bit biased, but Olympic National Park is hands-down the best place for PNW elopements (it’s my favorite national park), and here’s why. Olympic is the most diverse national park in the United States. In the park, you’ll find the following: pine forests, lakes, mountains, rivers, hot springs, waterfalls (over 10,000 to be exact), rainforests, beaches, and it doesn’t stop there. The park is huge. You could spend 5 days exploring and still barely scratch the surface of what this incredible location has to offer. It’s a short 3 hour drive from Seattle, and because it’s located along the coast, Olympic can be accessed year-round and always has snow-free location options!

Best Elopement Locations in Olympic National Park

Best Time of Year to Elope in Olympic National Park

The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is in the spring (March-May) or fall (September-November). If you don’t mind the rain, take advantage of the perfect lighting and zero crowds during the winter months.

Permit Information

A special use permit is not needed if you have less than 5 people at your elopement. If you have more than 5, the permit is $50 and can be applied for here.

Additional Resources

If you want more information about the park, check out my Olympic National Park Elopement Guide!

Redwood National Park

When most people think of the Pacific Northwest, they think of lush green forests and rainy weather, and Redwood National Park encompasses this vibe perfectly. Located along the coast of Northern California, Redwood National Park is one of the most peaceful and whimsical places for adventure elopements. The park is remote and there are a million different hidden gem locations around the area. As a local to the park, believe me when I say this is one of the best places to elope in the PNW, especially if you’re looking for a crowd-free experience.

Best Elopement Locations in Redwood National Park

Best Time of Year to Elope in Redwood National Park

The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is in the spring or fall. Similarly to Olympic, If you don’t mind the rain, take advantage of the crowd-free winter months.

Permit Information

A special use permit is $100. Learn more about the permit and how to apply here.

Additional Resources

If you want more information about the park, check out my Redwood National Park Elopement Guide!

Tongass National Forest

The Tongass National Forest is a 16.7 million acre national forest located in Alaska. It’s the largest national forest in the United States! While much of the forest is remote and can only be accessed by plane or boat (a lot of the forest is located on small Alaskan islands), there are still a plethora of hiking trails, lakes, and other must-see sites. There is truly no other experience as intimate as a seaside ceremony on a small private island.

Best Elopement Locations in the Tongass National Forest

Best Time of Year to Elope in the Tongass National Forest

Due to its heavy snowfall, elopements are recommended here during August and September.

Permit Information

A special use permit is generally not needed in this area. However, always be sure to double-check for your chosen location.

Additional Resources

If you want more information about the forest, check out my Alaska Elopement Guide!

Mt. Shasta

Mt. Shasta is a true hidden gem and one of my best kept secrets, though I love sharing this location with my couples. Mt. Shasta is located in Northern California and is the 5th tallest mountain in the state and 2nd tallest in the Cascade Range. Around Mt. Shasta, you can find lakes, forests, waterfalls, and so much more. I’m a local to the area, so I have a list of incredible off-the-beaten-path locations I love sharing with my couples.

Best Elopement Locations in Mt. Shasta

Best Time of Year to Elope in Mt. Shasta

Fall is an incredible time to elope in the area. While it’s usually accessible year-round, the summer months are not recommended as temperatures normally reach above 100 degrees.

Permit Information

A special use permit is generally not needed in this area since most of the locations are within the national forest (you only need a permit if you have more than 75 people). However, always be sure to double-check for your chosen location.

Additional Resources

If you want more information about this location, check out my mini Mt. Shasta Elopement Guide!

Samuel H. Boardman State Park

Samuel H. Boardman State Park is located in Southern Oregon in a small town called Brookings. Over the past few years, this location has grown in popularity, but for good reason. The scenery here is unreal! Sand dunes, hidden beaches, and cliffside views are just some of the sites to see in this area. This is one of my favorite places to shoot and hands-down one of the best places to elope in the PNW. Plus, it’s right next door to Redwood National Park, so you can experience a variety of different sceneries on your elopement day.

Best Elopement Locations in Samuel H. Boardman State Park

Best Time of Year to Elope in Samuel H. Boardman State Park

Spring is my favorite time to experience all that the coast has to offer. However, if you prefer a drier climate, consider the fall season. Winter is another one of my favorite times to visit, though prepare for rain!

Permit Information

A special use permit is generally not needed in this area. However, always be sure to double-check for your chosen location.

Additional Resources

If you want more information about the park, check out my Oregon Elopement Guide!

Columbia River Gorge

If you love waterfalls, the Columbia River Gorge is the PNW elopement location for you. Located between the Oregon and Washington border, the Columbia River Gorge has over 90 waterfalls on the Oregon side alone! This is a very popular location during the summer months, as there are hundreds of hiking trails, biking paths, and of course, waterfalls to explore. In the summer, depending on where you go, you may need a driving permit as the area is bustling with traffic that time of year.

Best Elopement Locations in Columbia River Gorge

Best Time of Year to Elope in Columbia River Gorge

To experience the waterfalls at their peak, the spring season is the best time to visit. However, it can be quite rainy, so I recommend holding off until the fall season if you’re not a fan of the rain.

Permit Information

A special use permit is only needed if you have more than 75+ guests at your wedding.

Additional Resources

If you want more information about the Columbia River Gorge, check out my Oregon Elopement Guide!

Snoqualmie

Snoqualmie is another one of those hidden gem locations to explore for your PNW elopement. Similar to Mt. Shasta, this area has some incredible mountain views, waterfalls, and lakes. Snoqualmie is a small mountain town a few miles east of Seattle. In the winter, this town transforms into a winter wonderland, with ski resorts and luxurious lodging. In the summer, crowds flock to the area to see some of Washington’s most powerful waterfalls.

Best Elopement Locations in Snoqualmie

Best Time of Year to Elope in Snoqualmie

This specific area gets a ton of snow during the winter, making driving here fairly dangerous. Because of this, I only recommend elopements here during the summer or fall season. I personally love this area during the month of June.

Permit Information

A special use permit is generally not needed for this area. As always, be sure to double-check once you’ve solidified your location.

Additional Resources

If you want more information about this location, check out my Washington State Elopement Guide!

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Ecola State Park

Ecola State Park is located along the Oregon Coast and again, is one of my all-time favorite PNW elopement locations. In the summer, this park is busy with bonfires on beaches and hikers on hiking trails. However, visit during the off-season and you’ll be amazed at all the beauty this park has to offer. In fact, it’s so “Pacific Northwest” that scenes of Twilight were filmed here! I mean, how much more PNW can you get than that?

Best Elopement Locations in Ecola State Park

Best Time of Year to Elope in Ecola State Park

Ecola State Park is best visited during the fall season. In the summer, this location becomes a zoo. Even during sunset, it can be hard to find parking. I recommend waiting until the off-season for your PNW elopement in this specific area.

Permit Information

A special use permit is generally not needed for this area. As always, be sure to double-check once you’ve solidified your location.

Additional Resources

If you want more information about the park, check out my Oregon Elopement Guide!

Mount Rainier National Park

Last, but certainly not least, we have Mount Rainier National Park. Located in Washington State, Mount Rainier is one of the most-visited national parks in the U.S. Here, you’ll find everything from wildflower meadows and rivers to old-growth forests and mountains. There is truly something for everyone at this national park, which is why it’s on my list of best places to elope in the PNW.

Best Elopement Locations in Mount Rainier National Park

Best Time of Year to Elope in Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier experiences quite the snowfall during the winter season, closing most of the park down. The summer here is absolutely insane, so I recommend visiting the area during the fall season.

Permit Information

A special use permit is required and costs $175. You can learn more about how to obtain a special use permit from the park here.

Additional Resources

If you want more information about the park, check out my Mount Rainier National Park Elopement Guide!

When Is the Best Time of Year to Elope in the PNW?

While each state is different in terms of weather, fall is the best time of year to elope in the PNW. However, check out the pros and cons of each season below.

Summer

The summer is the most popular time to visit the PNW, though I recommend avoiding this time of year. While the weather is pleasant, I can guarantee that the crowds are not. If you do visit in the summer, prepare for high prices, lodging and rental car shortages, and lots of traffic. While planning an elopement during sunrise or sunset can definitely help with the crowds, I recommend choosing a different season. I will say though that the weather this time of year is great, and in July and August, the wildflowers are absolutely incredible in places like Rainier and Olympic.

Fall

The fall is hands-down my favorite time to photograph elopements. While the fall season is short in higher-elevated areas, it’s sweet. The colors are stunning, prices are lower, and many of the crowds have subsided. Certain areas see a bit more activity than others (I’m looking at you North Cascades) due to their gorgeous fall colors, but most of the areas are crowd-free and stunning.

Winter

Winter in lower-elevation areas like Olympic or Redwood National Park is pure bliss, though it is the Pacific Northwest after all, and you know what that means; rain, rain, and more rain. While I personally love shooting in the rain (hello even lighting and vibrant colors), lots of couples prefer to stay dry during their elopement, in which case I would choose a different season. Higher elevation areas, like North Cascades and Mount Rainier, are usually inaccessible in the winter due to snow.

Spring

Spring is very similar to the winter season. However, if you plan it just right, you could potentially see tons of wildlife and peak waterfall flowage (looking at you Olympic). Like the winter though, most high-elevated areas are inaccessible until June or July. Regardless, I still recommend this time of year, especially on the coast and more populated areas to get a more intimate experience.

Everything You Need to Know About Eloping In the Pacific Northwest

1. It’s rainy. I know, I know. Most people know that the PNW gets a ton of rain, but even in the summer months, it’s a good idea to bring a jacket and pack some extra layers. While most of the time it’s more of a drizzle than a downpour, it definitely can get chilly. Oh, and bring some vitamin D. Even staying in the area for more than a week (especially if you’re used to sun) can really put a damper on your mood.

2. It’s remote. Aside from large cities like Seattle and Portland, the PNW is pretty remote. You’ll find a cute town here and there, but more often than not, you’ll need to do some extra driving. Oh, and don’t expect there to be a ton of dining, hair salons, and other elopement-necessities available, especially in more secluded areas. This is truly a hikers paradise!

3. It’s relaxed. One of the most frequent things I hear from people visiting this area for the first time is “everyone is so chill here,” and it’s true! At least in my opinion, people on the West Coast are very relaxed and tend to go with the flow. Leave some extra time in your timeline to soak it all in.

4. Do your research. If you’re deciding to stay in a larger city, do your research! Find out where the locals go and try to avoid overpriced tourists traps (unless of course you really want to). Some of the greatest food I’ve ever had has been in places only the locals know about.

5. It’s very dog friendly. The PNW is a very dog-friendly area, especially in Oregon, so please bring your furry friend along!

6. Stay longer. I truly can’t tell you enough to extend your trip. There is so much to do and see in the PNW that even after a week, you’ll be kicking yourself that you didn’t do more.

A bride and groom on Ruby Beach on their elopement day.

Coolest Places to Stay for Your PNW Elopement

From romantic getaways to out-of-this-world rooms, the PNW has some of the most unique and unforgettable lodging options around. Below are some of my personal favorite places to stay in some of the most popular areas of the PNW.

Alaska

Washington

  • Scandinavian Cabin – A sleek, modern cabin tucked away in the woods right near the North Cascades.
  • Treehouse Eagles – A stunning and unique treehouse with gorgeous views of Canada near Olympic.
  • Sol Duc Serenity – A riverfront home with bohemian flare right outside Olympic National Park.

Oregon

  • A-Frame Getaway – A popular A-Frame design located right outside Mt. Hood.
  • Hide and Seek Cabin – A vintage cabin tucked away in the woods with modern amenities.
  • The Haystack Haus – A quaint and quiet cabin located in famous Cannon Beach, just steps away from the ocean.

Northern California

PNW Elopement Activities

Whether you’re looking to hike or simply sip a coffee in a nearby bookstore, the Pacific Northwest has options for everyone. Below are some of my favorite elopement activities you can incorporate before, on, or after your special day.

  • Go whale watching in Alaska
  • Be a tourist in Portland and try out all the famous food spots like Voodoo Doughnuts
  • Go hiking through the redwoods of Northern California
  • Go kayaking through Washington’s different islands
  • Have a bonfire with s’mores in the woods or on the beach
  • Check out one of the 1,000s of waterfalls around
  • Take a dip in the local hot springs
  • Go wine tasting at a vineyard
  • Visit an island for your ceremony
  • Take a hot air balloon ride
  • Go skiing in the winter
  • Visit a national park
  • Get rained on in a rainforest
  • Take a wildlife tour
  • Have a picnic on top of a mountain

PNW Elopement Packages

I’m Brianna, a Pacific Northwest elopement photographer who helps capture and plan unforgettable PNW elopements. I’m a firm believer in giving each and every couple a 100% truly customized experience that you’ll remember forever. Aside from taking the photos, I’m here to provide personal location suggestions, vendor recommendations, permit assistance, and so much more. To get more information about my elopement packages, check out my elopement packages page here, or take a glimpse below.

PNW Elopement Package Pricing

  • 4 hours – 2 days of elopement coverage anywhere in the PNW
  • 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
  • Complimentary album design
  • 24-48 hour sneak peeks to share with the world
  • Travel fees to anywhere in Washington are already included
  • Starting at $6,500

Need more elopement help? Check out my How to Elope Guide, Mountain Elopement Guide, and the 18 Best Places to Elope in Oregon.

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.

I LIKE FREE THINGS
A girl holding a camera and smiling.

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…

SAY YES TO THE ADVENTURE

(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.

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