Planning a Washington elopement means choosing from some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Pacific Northwest. Picture misty mountain mornings, lush rainforests, and coastlines straight out of a fairytale. Whether you’re dreaming of a quiet moment on a cliffside trail or an all-day adventure filled with alpine lakes and cozy forest cabins, Washington has no shortage of beautiful places to say your vows.
As a Washington elopement photographer, I help couples plan intentional, unforgettable days. I’ve learned a thing or two about what matters most when selecting elopement locations. This guide will help you explore some of the best Washington elopement locations, understand what to expect, and start dreaming up a wedding day that feels like you.
How to Choose Your Washington Elopement Locations
Before you start searching or visiting locations, I urge my clients to consider a couple of things. I always have couples start by painting me a picture of what their dream day looks and feels like. In this stage, nothing is off the table. Where do they want to stay? What scenery is surrounding them as they say their vows? How do you imagine the weather and air feel? What type of environment is meaningful to them? How adventurous do they want to be? All this helps me identify who they are as a couple and allows me to then provide locations suggestions that I feel helps fit their vision.
The Best Season for a Washington Elopement
The weather here in Washington is another huge factor to consider in choosing your Washington elopement location. Many mountain locations also aren’t accessible until July – October but forest and coastal locations can be a great option any time of the year. Washington is home to endless drizzly grey days in the winter months long sun filled days in the summer– do either of those sound more appealing? What activities do you want to incorporate? (Kayaking, hiking, stargazing, off roading etc.) Lastly, legal requirements are another great thing to consider! Dead set on eloping on a certain date? Parks like Mt. Rainier only allow for ceremonies during certain days of the week so it’s important to consider your flexibility and regulations. All that said, each season here in the PNW has its perks (and some cons) which I have compiled below:
Fall
Fall (September–November) in Washington is magic. The golden larches in the mountains, the misty forest settings, and the fewer crowds make it a wonderful season to elope. I highly recommend opting for early fall for those hoping to explore an alpine location so you don’t have to worry about snow at high elevations.
Special note: If incredible fall colors are high up on your priority list, Artist Point, Minotaur Lake and Tipsoo Lake are perfect.
Winter
Winter (December– February) is perfect for those dreaming of a snowy wonderland in the mountains or a rainy, misty day out on the coast. Expect rain and snow but quieter locations that provide more solitude.
Con: Many mountain areas aren’t accessible, so only consider Mt. Rainier and similar others if you’re comfortable with snow driving and snow shoeing.
Special note: If you’re hoping for a winter elopement with snow covered mountains, Mt Rainier (when roads are open), Leavenworth, and Mount Baker Ski area are amazing options.
Spring
Spring (March–June) is such a special time. During this season, couples can experience abundant growth, rushing waterfalls, deep green forests and early season wildflowers. Another great season for couples looking for quieter, less crowded elopement spots with more accessibility than you’ll find in the winter months.
Con: The weather can be especially unpredictable in the spring, be prepared!
Special note: If a springtime forest elopement is calling your name, Lake Crescent, the Hoh Rainforest and Diablo Lake are some of my favorites.
Summer
Summer (July–September) is arguably the best time for adventure elopements in Washington. With complete mountain access, wildflowers blooming, snow free trails, mild evenings, long days and more predictable weather, it’s the most popular season for good reason.
Con: Summer is the busiest season, so expect long lines to get into the parks and more crowds to navigate. I highly recommend opting for a sunrise ceremony to help alleviate some of the crowds.
Special note: For stunning wild flowers in the summer months, Mt. Rainier National Park and Bagley Lakes are it.
Washington Elopement Locations Near Olympic NP
1. Lake Crescent in Olympic National Park
I love Lake Crescent for its landscape diversity and proximity to restaurants and lodging.
2. Ruby Beach in Olympic National Park
Ruby Beach is a favorite of mine for ease of access to sea stacks and amazing views right from the parking lot.
3. Hoh Rainforest
This is the ultimate forest lovers dream! As one of the largest temperate rainforests in the U.S, Hoh features deep mossy trees, long rivers and easy going trails perfect for exploring on an elopement day.
4. Lake Cushman in Olympic National Forest
Lake Cushman is a beautiful scenic lake that features calm water, mountains, pine forests and hiking trails.
Washington Elopement Locations in Mt. Rainier NP area
5. Tipsoo Lake in Mt. Rainier National Park
Tipsoo Lake is very easily accessible making it a popular photo spot. Sunset’s here are incredible and the meadows fill abundantly with wild flowers in the summer months
6. Paradise Mt. Rainier National Park
This area has endless easy-going trails that lead right off the visitor center parking lot. At Paradise, you can explore the iconic Myrtle Falls off of Skyline Loop or opt for a quieter nearby trail for fewer crowds and beautiful views of the mountain.
7. Sunrise Mt. Rainier National Park
Sunrise is the highest elevation you can drive to in the park making for some incredible views! There are tons of trails that branch off from the visitor center parking lot giving couples a lot to explore.
Mount Baker Snoqualmie NF Washington Elopement Locations
8. Huntoon Point in Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest
Huntoon Point holds some of the best mountain views in the state and requires minimal hiking making it an ideal elopement spot
9. Picture Lake in Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest
Picture Lake is great for eloping couples who are bringing along family members, as it’s a short walk to the views.
10. Diablo Lake in North Cascades National Park
I love this spot for couples who want incredible views no matter the time of year. Diablo Lake is accessible year-round.
Washington Elopement Venues
11. Kitsap Memorial Park in Poulsbo, WA
Kitsap is a beautiful state park full of towering trees, beach access and views of the nearby olympic mountains on a clear day
13. Alderbrook Resort and Spa in Union, WA
This is another great one if couples want to include guests into their elopement day. You can stay right on the Alderbrook Resort property with beautiful views of the ocean and explore the nearby trails for an added adventure.
Coastal Washington Elopement Locations
14. Friday Harbor in the San Juan Islands
The San Juans are such a great elopement destination for those looking for a Washington coastal / beach town. You can say your vows down by the water than hop on a sailboat for a special elopement day activity.
15. Rosario Beach in Deception Pass
This is a great area for variety while still being easily accessible. Rosario Beach remains relatively mild all year round and features cliffy bluffs, golden grass, a beautiful small cove, and trails through a forest.
Leavenworth Washington Elopement Locations
16. Along Icicle Road in Leavenworth, WA
This is a great choose your own adventure option! There are countless pull offs right along the right overlooking the river and surrounding mountains. This makes Icicle Road the perfect spot to exchange your vows and explore for couples portraits.
17. Minotaur Lake
This is such a great spot for more adventurous couples looking to hike on their elopement day. Minotaur Lake is surrounded by mountains and features beautiful colors in the fall months.
18. Colchuck Lake
Colchuck Lake is another location for more adventurous couples. It’s perfect for hiking, seeing incredible mountain views and experiencing one of Washington’s most breathtaking alpine lakes.
Washington Wedding Vendors
Elopements are a bit different than traditional weddings in many ways, including the vendors you choose. It’s important to contract with vendors who are experienced working with elopements and all of the out-of-the-box conditions they require. Here are a few I’ve worked with in the past & would highly recommend to future couples:
Florist: Golden Rod Floral
Videographer: Carly Films It
Officiant: Officiant Jimmie
Hair and Makeup: Anne Timss
Baker: Simple Sweet Cupcakes
Caterer: Farm 12 Catering
Planner: Tapestry Event Co
Where to Stay for Your Washington Elopement
Whether you’re planning a backyard elopement at a local Airbnb or you’re searching for relaxing accommodations with a view, Washington has tons to choose from. I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite place to stay in each area below. Just imagine getting ready in some of these cabins or spending your wedding night taking in the views of the mountains & water!
Mt Rainier NP
Artist Point Area
Olympic National Park
Leavenworth
Friday Harbor
Things to Do for Your Washington Elopement
No matter which part of the state you choose for your elopement, there’s no shortage of activities or sights to see in Washington! I encourage my clients to make the most of their time and enjoy adventures together while they’re in the area. What better way to make memories on your wedding day? If staying in Seattle, I highly recommend taking a ferry ride over to Bainbridge Island and visiting all the cute shops! While you’re in the neighborhood, be sure to check out Pegasus Coffee House– it’s my favorite over that way. Within Seattle itself, the waterfront, Pike Place Market and the Chihuly Glass Museum are some iconic spots to see. A day trip up to Deception Pass in the state park, driving up to Leavenworth (and stopping at Espresso Chalet along the way) or hiking along the i90 corridor are great ways to experience some true Washington vibes.
Washington Elopement Packages
When it comes to selecting the right package for your elopement, I highly recommend my all-day adventure package. Not only does it allow for plenty of time for a relaxed, fully-present day with each other and your guests, I include everything you could possibly want or need. If you’re getting married in Washington, it’s important that you pick a photographer who knows the area well, can guide you through the process and help you pick the perfect location for your vision. The adventure package covers it all!
This package includes:
- All day photography coverage up to 8 hours
- Online gallery of 600+ high res and hand edited images
- Custom timeline
- Customized location list and scouting
- 50+ page elopement guide + vendor recommendations
- Preview gallery within 72 hours post elopement
- Unlimited planning calls
- Gallery returned 8 weeks post elopement
- Permit assistance
- Mini polaroid gallery
- Travel within Washington
Sample All Day Timeline for Leavenworth Elopement
Curious what an all day elopement might look like? Below is a timeline I prepared for one of my elopement clients in Leavenworth. We accounted for plenty of time for exploring, relaxing, and making the most of their elopement.
6:00 am – 9:00 am | Couple spends the morning exploring the area
9:00 am | Start getting ready
11:30 am | Tessa arrives at airbnb, captures the tail end of getting ready and detail photos
1:00 pm | Head to meet for first look in town
1:15 pm | First look
1:45 pm | Walk to J5 to grab a coffee
2:15 pm | Head back to the airbnb
2:30 pm | Family photos
3:00 pm | Head to ceremony site along Icicle Road
3:30 pm | Arrive at ceremony site
4:00 pm | Ceremony!
4:30 pm | Family departs, explore the area for couples photos, off roading on forest service roads
6:00 pm | Head back to the airbnb
6:30 pm | Arrive back at airbnb, couple spend time with family before dinner
7:30 pm | Dinner
8:00 pm | Tessa departs
Washington Elopement Photographer
Hey, I’m Tessa, a Washington based elopement photographer who wears many hats for her clients. When you book me for your elopement, you’re getting more than just a photographer—you’re getting a planning partner, location scout, permit guide, vendor matchmaker, timeline expert, and Washington born adventure expert all in one. From finding the perfect spot to say your vows to helping you craft a day that feels completely you, I’m here to make the whole process feel easy and exciting. If you’re dreaming of an intentional, stress free elopement experience with someone who’s as invested in your day as you are—I’ve got you. Contact me here to start planning the elopement of your dreams!
