THE ULTIMATE WASHINGTON ELOPEMENT GUIDE
INCLUDING BEST PLACES TO ELOPE IN WASHINGTON + A WHOLE LOT MORE
A step-by-step resource to bring your dream elopement in Washington State to life.
REASONS TO ELOPE IN WASHINGTON
THE SHORT ANSWER? IT HAS EVERYTHING.
And we mean, everything. Lakes, hidden beaches, rugged coastlines, waterfalls, mountains, glaciers, rainforests, wildlife, volcanos, wildflowers . . . and a whole lot more.
It’s the kind of place we recommend to people who don’t mind a little mist or rain on their wedding day, or to people who want to avoid the snow in winter. It’s moody in the spring, and warm in the summer, and (in our well-traveled opinion), the best place to elope in the US.
Need a little more convincing? Here a few other perks of eloping to Washington:
HOW TO ELOPE IN WASHINGTON
5 SIMPLE STEPS TO AN INTENTIONAL ELOPEMENT DAY
WHERE TO ELOPE
BEST PLACES TO ELOPE IN WASHINGTON STATE
There are literally dozens of amazing places to elope in Washington, but we’ve added our favorite picks below, starting with the top 10. And if you work with us for photo and/or video, you’ll get access to our custom location planning process to find the best fit for you!
Please note: be sure to check with all local parks, national forests, and/or municipalities regarding permits that may be required before eloping to one of these locations. We provide general permit information below, but these requirements change often, so reach out to the appropriate place for the most up-to-date info.
UP FIRST: THE TOP 10 BEST PLACES TO ELOPE IN WASHINGTON
1. THE NORTH CASCADES
For some of the most dramatic mountain views in the state, your best option is North Cascades National Park, hands-down. This park is less than three hours from Seattle, but feels like a world away. Rocky cliffs, jagged peaks, and over 300 glaciers make this place feel truly magical and impressive.
You can also elope on the national forest side of these mountains, like Artist Point. Ideally, you’ll want your wedding date in this area to be between July and early October for the best weather, since most of it is not easily accessible the rest of the year. Or check out some of the best fire lookouts in the state, several of which are in this region!
2. OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK
Of all national parks in the US, Olympic NP is quite possibly the most biodiverse, since it covers a variety of landscapes from the coast all the way up to the peaks of the Olympic mountain range. It’s one of the only places you can elope and be able to explore the beach, lush rainforests, waterfalls, lakes and mountaintops all in one region.
Like most other national parks, you will need a special use permit to elope here if you have 5 or more people (including vendors).
Our favorite spots to elope here include Ruby Beach, Kalaloch, Hoh Rainforest, Lake Crescent, and Hurricane Ridge.
3. MOUNT RAINIER NATIONAL PARK
If you’re looking for a scenic location within a few hours to Seattle for an epic mountain elopement, Mount Rainier is likely going to be at the top of your list.
This 14,400+ foot peak is one of the most popular areas in the state, so a weekday elopement here is best. Some of our favorite things to see at this location include wildflowers and waterfalls during the summer, and plenty of snow sports in the winter. And one of the best trails in the area for scenery is the Sourdough Ridge Trail.
4. SAN JUAN ISLANDS
Another top choice for a more coastal option in northern Washington is the area near the San Juan Islands. Here are just a few beautiful spots in this region for your elopement:
- Friday Harbor, Lime Kiln Point State Park, San Juan Island
- San Juan Islands National Monument, Lopez Island
- Shark Reef Sanctuary, Lopez Island
- Spencer Spit State Park, Lopez Island
- Moran State Park, Orcas Island
Take a ferry or a private boat ride to several of the islands by water. Or you can even take a seaplane ride with a company like Kenmore Air from Seattle to Friday Harbor, to make it one truly unforgettable experience!
5. CAPE DISAPPOINTMENT STATE PARK
You don’t have to head all the way to Oregon for dramatic cliffsides and small hidden beaches! Located on the southwestern most point of Washington is Cape Disappointment, which features two historic lighthouses (one of which allows you to go inside!), a few beautiful sandy beaches, wide open ocean views, and even the option to stay in the historic lighthouse keeper’s lodge. It’s a dreamy option for a coastal elopement in the PNW.
The North Head Lighthouse is available for wedding/elopement reservations between September 16 – June 14 for up to 25 guests at $1000 plus tax for up to one hour.
6. DECEPTION PASS STATE PARK
Another absolutely dreamy place to elope is Deception Pass. Although this place is the most-visited state park in Washington, it’s so easy to see why.
You can have access to stunning sunsets over the water, a variety of hidden coves and cliffs, forests, and miles of scenic coastline along Puget Sound. Since it is so popular, you’ll likely want to aim for a weekday elopement here.
7. A Fire Lookout / Tower in Washington
There are some truly epic views from a variety of fire lookouts across the Cascades. The placement of these lookouts (sometimes “towers”) are usually at locations where they need to be able to see out far and wide in case of fires in the wilderness, which means they have some of the best mountaintop views in the state. Check out this fire lookout hiking list to get some initial ideas!
8. Ferry Ride
As you may have noticed from our name (Skyewater Photo + Film), we absolutely love anything that gets us closer to the water. If you’re anything like us, that even means being on the water for an amazing day, such as your elopement day!
Taking a ferry ride from Seattle is the best way to get out onto open waters, and might be the right fit for your vow ceremony.
9. TreeHouse Point
One of the most unique venues in Washington also offers elopement packages!
TreeHouse Point is in Fall City, a town outside of Seattle, and features custom-made treehouses in a mini forested “resort” that is the true PNW vibes you might be seeking.
Their elopement package includes a 2-night stay, and there are plenty of photo opportunities on site, including down by the river or among the ferns and tall trees.
10. Gold Creek Pond
Gold Creek Pond has such great views of the surrounding mountains and is really more like a small lake than a pond.
The water is such a pretty crystal-clear blue, and the loop trail around the lake is ADA-accessible, making it a fantastic option especially if you have any older guests or kids joining you on your elopement day.
OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK vs MOUNT RAINIER vs NORTH CASCADES
Torn about which location might be the best fit for you in Washington? We’ve dropped some of the top similarities and differences in three of Washington’s most popular elopement locations below to help you!
OLYMPIC
RAINIER
NORTH CASCADES
20+ More Amazing Places to Elope in Washington
…in no particular order.
RATTLESNAKE LAKE
Only 30 miles east of Seattle, the Rattlesnake Lake Recreation Area is perfect for any elopements that involve boating, swimming, picnics, or hiking. We love the combination of lake and mountain views here, and think the old tree stumps and rocks create such a beautiful, moody and dreamy vibe you’ll love!
Want a view from above and looking for a bigger adventure? Consider hiking up the 4+ miles roundtrip to Rattlesnake Ledge!
MOUNT ST. HELENS
Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument might be an ideal mountain elopement location for couples who want a lesser-visited alternative to scenery like Mt. Rainier, or for any geology lovers.
This active volcano most recently erupted from 1980-1986, and permits are currently required for anyone visiting above 4800 feet. In winter, it’s a great place for cross-country ski and snowmobile elopements!
PANTHER CREEK FALLS
Panther Creek Falls is in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, near the Columbia River Gorge. No parking pass/entry fee. Less than a quarter mile roundtrip, with only 100 feet of elevation gain.
Also by Falls Creek Falls (a 3+ mile roundtrip hike) if you want to do both in one day!
MT. ADAMS
Mount Adams (known by Native American tribes as Pahto or Klickitat) is the second tallest peak in Washington at over 12,000 feet. Although it’s a potentially active volcano, it hasn’t erupted in over 1,000 years.
This region has over 10 active glaciers, which all support running water such as streams and waterfalls into the forests and meadows below. It’s definitely another super scenic spot for elopements in Washington State.
W.W. SEYMOUR CONSERVATORY
Alternatively, there’s also the W.W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory for another affordable indoor ceremony option through Metro Parks Tacoma, perfectly suited for micro-weddings and elopements. The nice thing about the conservatory is accessing an indoor green space even when the weather outside isn’t the best.
Availability: Year-round (hours vary: April – September: 4:30 – 10 pm; October – March: 3:30 – 9 pm)
Capacity: 45 max, 25 guests with seats
Price Range: $375/hour
SEQUIM + PORT ANGELES
On the north side of the peninsula, these two small towns are actually in a somewhat drier climate than the wetter (coastal) side of the region. It’s something about the way the mountains capture most of the rain before it reaches here! 🙂
There are some nice beaches in Port Angeles for a coastal elopement, and if you elope in Sequim during the summer, you might be able to get some portraits and celebrate your elopement among the lavender fields here! They’re both also super close to the northern entrance of Olympic NP, so you can explore this whole region on an all-day or two-day epic elopement adventure.
DOWNTOWN SEATTLE
Nothing quite says “Seattle” like its iconic Space Needle. Open year-round, this 600+ foot tall observation deck gives you amazing views of the city for your elopement, and even features a rotating restaurant for a romantic end-of-the-night dinner experience.
Or opt for another great location in the heart of Seattle, like Kerry Park or Discovery Park.
BEACH ELOPEMENT LOCATIONS IN WA
For the top coastal locations in Washington state, here are some great beaches to consider for your elopement day:
Alki Beach, Seattle
Ruby Beach, Olympic National Park
Rialto Beach, Olympic National Park
Long Beach + Cape Disappointment
Rosario Beach, Deception Pass State Park
Seabrook Beach
DIABLO LAKE
Although the open meadow you see across Pinterest and other websites for elopements at this spot is no longer allowed for use, you can still elope along the shores of this stunning turquoise green lake in the North Cascades.
Diablo Lake even has a trail by the same name (Diablo Lake Trail), or you can take a boat tour such as the Seattle City Light if your elopement date is between June and October.
SPOKANE FALLS
Right in the heart of town, Spokane Falls is truly a beautiful sight. You can easily see why Native Americans consider this place sacred. If you opt for this spot, you can even take the Skyride gondola over the water!
SNOQUALMIE FALLS
Snoqualmie Falls is one of the biggest waterfalls in the state and perfect for elopements! Easy to access from the upper observation deck or lower observation deck.
Short walk (no hiking) involved to see it from above, or reserve a space at the Salish Lodge & Spa for views from above.
There is a separate way to access the base of the falls. Contact us for more info!
PALOUSE FALLS
Requires state park pass to enter. There are a few viewpoints, all easily accessible. Even includes a 0.1 mile ADA walking path.
WATERFALL ELOPEMENT LOCATIONS IN WA
In addition to the others already mentioned above, here are some other waterfalls in the area:
Madison + Marymere Falls, Olympic NP
Twin Falls, Olallie State Park
Franklin Falls, Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
Whatcom Falls, Bellingham
WHERE TO ELOPE IN WA WITH GUESTS
While your options are nearly wide open when you choose a “just us” elopement day, a group of more than about 10 people will be more limiting in where you can go for your ceremony. If you plan to bring guests along, we recommend checking out the following options to have a space suited for your group size:
HOW TO PICK YOUR ELOPEMENT LOCATION
5 WAYS TO NARROW DOWN YOUR LOCATION
WHEN TO ELOPE IN WASHINGTON
SUMMER: JUNE – AUGUST
By far the most popular season to elope in Washington is summer. It’s considered the PNW’s “dry season” which means more sunshine, less rain (although never guaranteed!), and far more trail options for hiking and warmer water for kayaking / swimming. But this also means more foot traffic and tourists, so we always recommend eloping on weekdays and/or early mornings this time of year for more privacy.
FALL: SEPTEMBER – NOVEMBER
Autumn is one of our personal recommendations for elopements in Washington, because you still have warmer and slightly drier weather than other months, but with far fewer visitors than the summertime. Many trails are still accessible until mid-October before early winter weather chances begin, and you have beautiful golden larches turning as well as other trees like maples in lower elevations.
WINTER: DECEMBER – FEBRUARY
Winter is very wet and cloudy, but can honestly make for some beautifully moody images for your elopement day. And it’s a great time of year at places like Olympic National Park, where you can always find snow-free locations even in the middle of winter and entire trails practically to yourselves. Bonus? Many places in Washington have less expensive lodging options in the off-season.
SPRING: MARCH – MAY
Spring can actually extend pretty well into June for the higher elevations in Washington (some places like the North Cascades and Mt. Rainier have snow on the ground well into July!). But at lower elevations, springtime blossoms like cherry and magnolia trees make it a lovely time of year for elopements. Many trails are still pretty wet/muddy in these months, but can be worth it before the summer tourist season begins.
And if you’re at all worried about rain/snow, check out our guide on what to do if it rains/snows on your elopement day!
HOW TO APPLY FOR A MARRIAGE LICENSE IN WASHINGTON STATE
Whether you’re local to Washington or flying in from out of state, obtaining a marriage license here is pretty easy:
1. Washington state law requires a 3-day waiting period after your license fee is paid, and the license is valid for 60 days.
2. Both applicants must be unmarried, at least 18 years old, and present a current photo ID. Applications require a $69 fee to be filed.
3. You can purchase a marriage license from any county in Washington to get married anywhere in the state.
4. The marriage license requires the couple, an officiant, and two witnesses to sign the document. Some elopement photographers (like us!) are ordained and can sign as your officiant, and many of our couples ask other vendors or visitors out on the trails to sign as witnesses.
All details and information for marriage licenses can be found on the King County Recorders office website here.
HEY THERE, I’M KAITLYN
Your Washington photographer, videographer + elopement expert
An introvert at heart, I always value real connection, stories, and conversation over surface-level interaction any day of the week.
Having documented over 150 weddings and elopements on camera over the last decade, I’ve realized that I have a knack for being the calm, welcoming, and intuitive energy couples didn’t even realize they needed.
So, I invite you to think about what it would feel like to be fully present, unapologetically yourselves, and care-free on your wedding day instead of worrying about what everyone else wants. And take comfort in knowing you have my full support, every step of the way.
Ready to chat?
We’re stoked you’re interested in working with us!
We believe the experience you get with your photo and video team goes far beyond the products you get after your big day has come and gone. It’s about trust, excitement, and pure joy – before, during, and after your wedding day.
If you’re seeking a welcoming, fun, and talented team who’s here to support you every step of the way, we’d love to chat with you to see if we’re a good fit!
