If you ask me, waterfalls are one of the most underrated landscapes for weddings and elopements. Everyone wants the mountains, and don’t get me wrong, I love them too (I even wrote an entire guide about mountain elopements). But when it comes to truly unique ceremony backdrops, waterfalls are hard to beat. Actual waterfall wedding venues are surprisingly rare, which is exactly why getting married at the waterfall itself is such a cool thing you can do.
I’m an elopement photographer who’s spent years exploring and photographing waterfalls all over the country. I created this guide to help you plan your own waterfall wedding or elopement from start to finish. Inside, you’ll find the best waterfall wedding locations, permit information, and a step-by-step breakdown of how to plan a waterfall elopement or wedding that feels like you.
10 Best Waterfall Wedding Locations in the US
When it comes to waterfall weddings, not every waterfall is created equal. Some are easy to access and great for ceremonies, while others require a bit of effort to reach. From waterfalls right off the side of the road to others tucked inside national parks, these specific waterfalls stand out above the rest. Below are the 10 best waterfall wedding locations in the US.
1. Burney Falls, California
I may be a bit biased since Burney Falls is practically in my backyard, but it truly deserves the hype. Named the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” Burney Falls drops 129 feet and flows year-round, even during dry seasons. One of the biggest perks is the viewing platform at the base of the falls, which can be used for ceremonies and is just a short walk from the parking lot. Come here in the off-season and you may just have the entire falls to yourself.
- Permit required: Yes, a $200+ permit is required for ceremonies.
- Crowd level: Busy in the summer, much quieter in the off-season.
- Best time to elope: May–October.
Photographer tip: Burney Falls has exploded in popularity. Summer visits often mean long traffic delays or far away parking. Sunrise, sunset, or off-season weddings are your best bet for fewer people.
2. Silver Falls, Oregon
Choosing waterfall locations in Oregon is tough (there are 200+), but Silver Falls easily earns a spot on this list. Located along the famous Trail of Ten Falls, this park features, you guessed it, ten waterfalls on one loop trail, several of which you can walk behind. I love Silver Falls for its accessibility and variety. While it does get busy, there are far more ceremony-friendly spots here compared to other popular Oregon waterfalls like Multnomah Falls.
- Permit required: Typically not required for groups under 50.
- Crowd level: Moderate to busy.
- Best time to elope: May–October.
Photographer tip: Water levels vary throughout the year. Depending on conditions, access to the base of the falls may be limited.
3. Sol Duc Falls, Washington
Sol Duc Falls is a must-see waterfall in Olympic National Park, not just for the falls themselves, but for the hike to get there. The 0.8-mile trail is mostly flat and goes through old-growth forest before ending at the falls, where a 48-foot triple cascade awaits. Fun fact: this is the most photographed waterfall in Olympic National Park. If it’s a little too busy for your taste, don’t worry, Olympic is home to hundreds, if not thousands, of waterfalls. In fact, one area of the park alone is nicknamed the “Valley of 1,000 Waterfalls.”
- Permit required: A $50 permit is required for groups larger than five.
- Crowd level: Moderate.
- Best time to elope: May–October.
Photographer tip: Parking fills up quickly on weekends, get there early!
4. Taughannock Falls, New York
When people think of New York waterfalls, Niagara Falls usually comes to mind, but Taughannock Falls deserves just as much attention. Standing taller than Niagara, this waterfall plunges 215 feet and is surrounded by overlooks, picnic areas, camping, and access to Cayuga Lake. It’s especially beautiful in the spring and fall, with fall bringing some of the most vibrant foliage in the state.
- Permit required: Yes. A permit is required, though there is usually no fee.
- Crowd level: Moderate.
- Best time to elope: May–October.
Photographer tip: Fall weekends are popular. Plan a weekday ceremony if you want more privacy.
5. Yosemite Falls, California
You can’t make a list of waterfall wedding venues without mentioning Yosemite Falls. At 2,425 feet tall, it’s the tallest waterfall in Yosemite National Park and visible from many of the park’s most iconic viewpoints. You can exchange vows near the base of the falls or head to a nearby overlook for a better view. Either way, the scale of this waterfall is guaranteed to leave you in awe.
- Permit required: Yes, a $150 permit is required.
- Crowd level: Busy.
- Best time to elope: May–October.
Photographer tip: Yosemite is one of the busiest national parks in the country. No matter when you visit, expect crowds.
6. Latourell Falls, Oregon
Latourell Falls is one of the most accessible waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge (waterfall heaven in Oregon). Dropping 224 feet straight down over a basalt cliff, this waterfall is known for its single plunge and nearby moss. It’s a great option if you want a waterfall elopement without a long hike, as the base is just a short mile walk away or the overlook is just steps from the parking lot.
- Permit required: No permit needed for small groups.
- Crowd level: Moderate to busy, especially on weekends.
- Best time to elope: April–October.
Photographer tip: This area can be shaded most of the day, which is great for even lighting! Weekday mornings are best for crowd control.
7. Toccoa Falls, Georgia
Toccoa Falls is one of the few waterfalls that is an actual venue for weddings. Standing at an impressive 186 feet, this waterfall is located on the campus of Toccoa Falls College and can accommodate up to 200 people. Unfortunately, the falls cannot be closed to the public at any time which means you may run into a few tourists during the ceremony. On top of that, all ceremonies must entail Christian services. Regardless, I wanted to include it on this list as it is one of the few actual waterfall wedding venues in the US.
- Permit required: Yes, permission is required through Toccoa Falls College.
- Crowd level: Low to moderate.
- Best time to elope: March-November.
Photographer tip: Ceremonies can only occur here after 4:30pm.
8. Akaka Falls, Hawaii
When you think of Hawaii, you think of waterfalls (okay, and maybe shaved ice, beaches, and jungle). I’ve personally been to Hawaii countless times, and it’s one of my favorite places to visit when it comes to waterfall elopement locations. Akaka Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in Hawaii. Located on the Big Island, a short loop trail will take you to multiple different viewpoints of the falls.
- Permit required: Yes, a state park permit is required.
- Crowd level: Busy, especially mid-day.
- Best time to elope: April-November.
Photographer tip: You cannot access the base of these falls. The trail is narrow and good for 2-person elopements.
9. Bridal Veil Falls, Colorado
Bridal Veil Falls in Telluride is the tallest free-falling waterfall in Colorado, dropping an impressive 365 feet. While the falls are visible from town, getting closer requires some effort. You can hike the steep trail to the top or access it by vehicle during certain times of year. Either way, the payoff is worth it.
- Permit required: No permit required.
- Crowd level: Moderate. Popular with hikers, especially in summer.
- Best time to elope: June-September.
Photographer tip: The hike to the top is steep and exposed. Plan your ceremony for early morning to beat the heat.
10. Havasu Falls, Arizona
Havasu Falls is one of the most unique waterfall elopement locations in the United States. Known for its bright blue water and red rock, this waterfall feels almost unreal. Reaching the falls requires a challenging hike and is best suited for couples who want a multi-day elopement experience. You have to get a permit to hike to the falls and camping is a must (no day hikes allowed). Permits sell out in seconds so be prepared in advance to snag one!
- Permit required: Yes, permits are required through the Havasupai Tribe and are extremely limited.
- Crowd level: Moderate, limited by permit system.
- Best time to elope: March–May or September–October.
Photographer tip: Plan in advance! Permits sell out quick and camping is required (no day hikes allowed).
Best Time of Year for Waterfall Weddings
The best time of year for a waterfall wedding is usually in the spring (April-May) thanks to snowmelt and seasonal rain. This is when you’ll catch waterfalls at their peak! However, during this time of year, trails can be muddy and weather can be unpredictable (rainy).
Late summer and early fall (September-October) often bring easier access and fewer crowds, though water flow may be lower in drier regions.
Winter is amazing in some areas like the Pacific Northwest, but can be dangerous in others like Colorado for waterfall weddings.
If privacy is important to you, consider planning your ceremony for a weekday or during sunrise or sunset, regardless of the season. Always factor in local weather patterns, as waterfalls can look and feel very different from one region to the next. Also, ask your photographer! They’re more than likely extremely familiar with your location and can give you the rundown on the best time to visit.
Do You Need a Permit to Have a Waterfall Wedding?
In many cases, yes, you will need a permit to have a waterfall wedding, especially if the location is within a national park, state park, or protected public land. Permit requirements vary by location and often depend on group size, ceremony setup, and whether guests are present. Some parks allow small ceremonies without permits, while others require a Special Use Permit regardless of size. The best way to find accurate information is to search “[location] wedding permit” or check the managing park’s official website. When in doubt, your photographer can usually help guide you through the process and point you in the right direction to avoid any surprises on your wedding day.
How to Plan a Waterfall Wedding or Elopement: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Choose Your Waterfall Location
Start by deciding what kind of waterfall you want. Do you want something easily accessible with guests, or a more adventurous hike-in location? Consider water flow, accessibility, crowd levels, and the surrounding scenery. Some waterfalls are seasonal, so make sure the one you choose will be flowing during your planned timeframe.
Step 2: Choose Your Date
Once you’ve chosen your waterfall, the next step is picking a date. Waterfall flow, weather, and crowd levels vary throughout the year, so timing matters. Spring and early summer usually offer the strongest flow, while late summer and fall often provide better access and fewer crowds. If privacy is important, plan your ceremony on a weekday or during sunrise or sunset. Always check historical weather patterns and trail conditions before locking in your date.
Step 3: Get a Permit
Many waterfall locations require a permit for weddings or elopements, especially those within national or state parks. Permit requirements vary depending on the location, group size, and ceremony setup. Some parks require permits regardless of size, while others only require them for larger groups. Apply as early as possible, especially during peak season, as permits are often processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Step 4: Book Your Vendors
Your photographer should be the first vendor you book (I know, I know, of course I’d say that!). However, a photographer experienced with waterfall elopements can help you choose locations, navigate permits, build timelines, and plan backup options. Depending on your vision, you may also want to book an officiant, florist, hair and makeup artist, or videographer. Booking vendors early gives you more flexibility with dates and locations.
Step 5: Book Your Travel and Prepare
Once your vendors are secured, book your travel and accommodations. Prepare for changing conditions by packing layers, sturdy shoes, and any essentials needed for hiking in wet environments.
Step 6: Get a Marriage License
Marriage license requirements vary by state, so research this step early. Some states require a waiting period between obtaining your license and getting married, and licenses typically expire after a set number of days. Make sure you understand where to apply, what identification is needed, and whether witnesses or an officiant are required.
Step 7: Get Married!
This is the fun part. Once everything is planned, all that’s left to do is show up and enjoy! Take your time, embrace the adventure, and soak in the experience (pun intended). You are at a waterfall after all!
Waterfall Wedding Packages
I hope this guide helped make planning your waterfall wedding or elopement feel a little less overwhelming and a lot more exciting. Whether you’re still dreaming up locations or ready to start locking things in, my goal is always to help couples create a day that feels true to them.
I’m Brianna, an elopement photographer who specializes in outdoor weddings across the West, from waterfalls and mountains to coastlines and forests. I help with locations, permits, timelines, and all the little details that turn a great idea into a reality. If you’re dreaming of a waterfall elopement and want a photographer who’s been there and knows the process, I’d love to help bring it to life.
- 4 hours – 2 days of elopement coverage anywhere in the world
- 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 the world 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. I’m a Pacific Northwest elopement photographer whose 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.
