How to Elope in Washington

Washington is one of the best places in the world to elope. You’ll find rugged beaches, emerald rainforests, alpine lakes, volcanic landscapes, and snow-capped peaks all in one state. It’s variety is like nowhere else, and it means you can shape a wedding day that feels as adventurous, intentional, or laid-back as you want.

As someone who calls Washington home, I’ve spent years exploring these landscapes—hiking its trails, camping under its skies, and photographing couples in every season. This guide pulls all of that experience together in one place. It’s designed to prevent overwhelm by giving you a clear path forward, from big-picture decisions down to the practical details like permits, parking passes, and timelines.

By the end, you’ll know not just how to elope in Washington, but how to create a day that feels true to you.

What This Guide Covers

• A step-by-step planning framework
• The best regions to elope in Washington + what each offers
• Marriage license + permit rules, simplified
• Parking passes you’ll actually need (and which ones you don’t)
• Sample timelines and activity ideas
• Quick planning checklist to keep you on track

Quick Checklist (Washington Elopement Essentials)

• Decide if an elopement fits your vision.
• Book your Washington elopement photographer (your built-in guide).
• Choose a location.
• Pick a date + season.
• Reserve lodging.
• Apply for permits.
• Get your Washington marriage license.
• Grab the right parking pass.
• Build a timeline with your Washington elopement photographer.
• Pack essentials

Step 1: Determine if an Elopement is the Right Decision

Eloping is one of the most empowering ways to get married. It means you value time for yourself, you care about experiences over expectations, and you’re ready to design a day that feels unique to your story. No two elopements look the same—and that’s the beauty of it.

Choosing to elope doesn’t make your day smaller; it makes it yours. It’s about shaping your wedding around what matters most: your connection, your freedom, and your joy.

Deciding how you want to get married is a big step, and I want you to feel confident if an elopement is the path for you. Start with a few questions:

• Do you imagine a day with just the two of you, where you can be fully present?
• Does the thought of creating an experience—travel, adventure, or simply a quiet moment in nature—excite you more than planning a large event?
• Do you value intimacy, freedom, and intention over following traditions?

If those questions spark a little “yes” in your heart, an elopement is an excellent choice for getting married.

For more about deciding to elope, check out my blog about # things to consider before eloping.

For a clearer understanding of what elopement days can look like, check out my elopement stories, where I reflect on various elopements I’ve had the honor of being a part of in the past.

Step 2: Find the Right Elopement Photographer & Book Your Package

Here’s something most couples don’t realize: once you choose your elopement photographer, the whole process gets lighter.

Big weddings often have planners and venues calling the shots. With elopements, things are more personal and flexible—but that doesn’t mean you’re on your own. Your photographer usually becomes your built-in guide.

When you’re looking, don’t just shop for “packages.” Find someone you actually vibe with. Someone who’s both logical and creative. Most importantly, someone who reminds you it’s okay to laugh and be silly.

Here’s what the right photographer for you should bring to the table:

• A personality you click with (because they’ll be with you all day).
• Experience guiding couples through permits, timelines, and logistics.
• Resources that make your life easier—like location suggestions, packing lists, and vendor recs.
• And most importantly, someone who lets you feel free enough to be yourselves.

The earlier you book, the more support you get along the way. You could think of me as a mix of photographer, friend, and trail guide—I’m here to help you feel cared for, so you can focus on the good stuff.

Step 3: Choose the Best Location to Elope

Close your eyes and picture it: what do you see?

• Towering cliffs with waves crashing below?
• A forest where the silence feels sacred?
• An alpine meadow glowing with wildflowers?

Whatever you just pictured in your head, Washington probably has what you’re dreaming of. Washington’s strength is its range—coast, rainforest, alpine lakes, and big mountain views—often within a few hours’ drive from Seattle. A few beautiful, general areas to consider:

Olympic Peninsula

• Vibe: Wild, moody, adventurous. The coast is perfect for couples who love dramatic weather, stormy seas, and epic sunsets. The rainforest is for those who crave quiet, sacred-feeling spaces dripping in moss. The lakes are calm and reflective — ideal for couples who want stillness.
• Couples Who Love It: Romantics who want their day to feel like a storybook, adventure-seekers who like mixing beach + forest in one trip, and anyone who values intimacy in wild, rugged landscapes.
• Best Season: Year-round, but summer brings the most reliable weather. Winter gives you mood and solitude.
• Fun Activities: Hiking, kayaking, picnicking, beach walks, rainforest strolls.
• Permit Note: Like most national parks, Olympic asks couples to grab a Special Use Permit for ceremonies—basically their way of keeping beaches, forests, and trails protected for everyone. It’s a little bit of paperwork, but nothing overwhelming. I recommend applying more than 60 days out. Sooner the better. Permit rules and guidelines can change over the years, so definitely check out their website https://www.nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/special-use-permits-commercial-permits-overnight-reservations.htm for the latest information.
• Parking + Entrance: America the Beautiful Pass (National Parks annual pass, $80) OR Olympic NP Entrance Fee ($30/vehicle, valid 7 days).

Mount Rainier National Park

• Vibe: Iconic, epic, awe-inspiring. Rainier feels like the classic “mountain elopement” — meadows of wildflowers in summer, glaciers that dominate the horizon, and sunrises that turn the whole peak pink.
• Couples Who Love It: Adventure-seekers who want the big alpine look without leaving Washington, couples who want their wedding photos to scream “PNW,” and those who value a mix of beauty + accessibility.
• Best Season: Mid-July through September for snow-free meadows (wildflowers peak late July–August). Winter is magical at Paradise if you’re up for snowshoeing. In summer, only the Sunrise Corridor requires a timed entry pass.
• Fun Activities: Hiking, picnicking, stargazing, snowshoeing.
• Permit Note: Rainier also requires a Special Use Permit for any ceremony inside the park. Think of it as reserving your tiny slice of the mountain for a few hours. Summer months also have timed entry reservations for the Sunrise Corridor. I recommend applying for permits more than 60 days out. Sooner the better. Permit rules and guidelines can change over the years, so definitely check out their website https://www.nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/permitsandreservations.ht m for the latest information.
• Parking + Entrance: America the Beautiful Pass (National Parks annual pass, $80) OR Olympic NP Entrance Fee ($30/vehicle, valid 7 days).

North Cascades National Park + Mount Baker

• Vibe: Remote, rugged, wild. The North Cascades are less about “Instagram-famous spots” and more about feeling like you’ve stepped into the wilderness. Expect jagged granite peaks, turquoise alpine lakes, and a real sense of solitude.
• Couples Who Love It: Those who value privacy, who don’t mind driving a bit further for big rewards, and who want an elopement that feels like an adventure into the unknown. Perfect for couples who want fewer crowds and a sense of discovery.
• Best Season: July–October for snow-free access. Fall brings golden larches and crisp air.
• Fun Activities: Hiking, camping, canoeing, scenic drives.
• Permit Note: Ceremonies inside the national park require a Special Use Permit. If you’re at Artist Point, contact Mt. Baker–Snoqualmie National Forest; if you’re at Washington Pass, contact Okanogan–Wenatchee National Forest. I recommend applying for permits more than 60 days out. Sooner the better. Permit rules and guidelines can change over the years, so definitely check out their website https://www.nps.gov/noca/getinvolved/special-use-permits.htm for the latest information.
• Parking: Trailheads around Mount Baker (USFS) often require a Northwest Forest Pass ($30 annual / $5 day).
  

Columbia River Gorge (WA side)

• Vibe: Dramatic, windswept, romantic. Waterfalls thunder in spring, basalt cliffs glow at golden hour, and river overlooks make for timeless portraits.
• Couples Who Love It: Romantics who want a mix of powerful landscapes and easy access. Perfect for those who want nature close to towns (with breweries or cozy dinner spots after).
• Best Season: Spring for wildflowers and waterfalls; late summer for golden tones.
• Fun Activities: Hiking, waterfall visits, picnicking, and brewery stops.
• Permit Note: Washington State Parks use a Special Activity Permit for ceremonies. Plan for an application + fee; processing times vary by park. I recommend applying for permits more than 60 days out. Sooner the better. Permit rules and guidelines can change over the years, so definitely check out their website https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/giffordpinchot/permits/weddings-and-non-commercial-group-use for the latest information.
• Parking: Discover Pass for parking at WA State Parks.

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

• Vibe: Cozy, alpine, storybook. The town feels like a European village, with rugged peaks just beyond. Winter turns it into a snow globe; summer gives you turquoise lakes and hiking adventures.
• Couples Who Love It: Sentimental couples who want cozy cabins, twinkle lights, and a blend of romance + adventure. Great for those who value both the outdoors and a warm gathering place to come back to.
• Best Season: Winter for snow + lights; summer for alpine adventures.
• Fun Activities: Hiking, snowshoeing, exploring town, and cabin stays
• Permit Note: Small ceremonies that are under 75 people don’t need permits, but check for your exact location for parking pass requirements. Parking usually requires a Northwest Forest Pass.
• Parking: Most trailheads (Colchuck, Stuart Lake, Icicle Gorge, etc.) require a Northwest Forest Pass.

Gifford Pinchot National Forest

• Vibe: Stark, powerful, otherworldly. Standing near the crater or blast zone is humbling — the landscape is unlike anywhere else in Washington.
• Couples Who Love It: Those who value uniqueness and want their elopement to feel bold, raw, and unforgettable. It’s for explorers who don’t like “pretty” as much as “different.”
• Best Season: July–September for clear access. Snow and road closures limit access during both spring and winter.
• Fun Activities: Hiking, exploring viewpoints, camping.
• Permit Note: Small ceremonies that are under 75 people don’t need permits, but check for your exact location for parking pass requirements.
• Parking: Most trailheads require a Northwest Forest Pass. Some developed sites also require a Monument Pass or day fee.

Snoqualmie Pass + Central Cascades

• Vibe: Adventurous but accessible. Alpine lakes, waterfalls, and forests are just an hour from Seattle.
• Couples Who Love It: Those who want big mountain energy without a long drive. Perfect for sunrise or sunset elopements when you want epic views and convenience.
• Best Season: Summer and fall for trails + lakes; winter for snowshoe elopements close to the city.
• Fun Activities: Hiking, snowshoeing, skiing, picnicking.
• Permit Note: Most areas fall under the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. Small ceremonies that are under 75 people don’t need permits, but check for your exact location for parking pass requirements.
• Parking: Most trailheads fall under the USFS and require a Northwest Forest Pass. Some State Parks (like Lake Easton nearby) require a Discover Pass.

My tips on how to pick a location: start with how you want the day to feel (quiet + intimate, windswept + epic, or cozy + woodsy). Then consider who you’re bringing along. Is it just you two? Will you bring pets? And will family be part of this adventure? Once you think of this, you’ll have a clearer direction for the type of elopement location you want.

Note: The guests you invite are also essential in finalizing your elopement plans, as this impacts the exact activities and your timeline. It’s good to decide this early on so that it doesn’t conflict with the rest of your planning.

Step 4: Choose your Elopement Date

Season matters more than you may think. A mountain trail in July might be dreamy, but in May it could still be buried in snow. Likewise, a coastal cliff can be moody and wild in winter—or soft and golden in late summer.

When you book your date, consider:

• Weather & daylight for your chosen location
• Crowds (weekdays are often quieter)
• Personal meaning (anniversary dates, birthdays, or “just because it feels right”)

Feel free to reach out to me for locations and season guidance! I’ll recommend a good time to elope based on your preferred scenery and vibe.

Step 5: Book Your Lodging (Airbnb, Hotels, Camping, Vans)

Where you stay shapes both the experience and the logistics of your elopement. Washington’s landscapes stretch across mountains, forests, and coastlines, and most trailheads or ceremony spots sit hours from Seattle. It’s a good idea to book lodging closer to your elopement location to ensure a smooth timeline. Lodging can often get booked out far in advance by others, so locking in your lodging early gives you the most options for your ideal accommodation.

Lodging options to consider:

• Airbnb or VRBO cabins: These give you more than just a bed for the night—they set the scene for your whole day, and they add so much character to your day. It can be a little cabin with a woodstove crackling near Rainier, or an A-frame that smells like cedar in the forest, or a house perched above the ocean where you can toast your marriage as the sun drops.
• Hotels/Lodges: Easier for groups or if you want amenities on-site. Many towns near the parks (Ashford for Rainier, Port Angeles for Olympic, Winthrop for North Cascades) have charming inns and boutique hotels.
• Camping/Glamping: Perfect if you want to wake up right inside the park. Reserve early—summer campsites book out fast.
• Vans or Campervans: Flexible and adventurous. Let’s park near your sunrise location so you can roll out of bed into the mountains.

Timing tip: Lodging often books out as far as 6–12 months in advance near popular parks. Once you’ve chosen your location and date, book your lodging right after—it will make every other step (permits, timeline, vendor planning) smoother.

Step 6: Brainstorm Couple Activities

This is where your day becomes more than a ceremony. Sunrise coffee, a hike to a waterfall, paddleboarding, stargazing, or a cozy dinner back at your cabin. These little layers are what make your day an authentic experience.

Activities are essential because they fill your day with memories beyond just the vows. They give you opportunities to slow down, connect, and savor the adventure. Whether it’s something adventurous like kayaking across an alpine lake or something simple like baking cookies together in your cabin, the activities you choose shape how your elopement feels.

Some couples choose one signature activity, while others weave in a handful throughout the day. Think about what makes you feel alive as a couple, and let that guide you.

• Popular activity ideas for elopements:

• Sunrise or sunset hike
• Picnics with local food and drinks
• Exploring a new town together (coffee shops, markets, breweries)
• Paddleboarding, kayaking, or canoeing
• Horseback riding or biking
• Stargazing or a campfire at the end of the night
• Cooking or sharing a private dinner

Step 7: Hire your Elopement Vendors

Elopements can be as simple or styled as you want. Florals, hair and makeup, a private chef, even live music—it’s all possible. I’ll connect you with people who fit your vibe and who understand the logistics of working in these locations.

Vendors matter because they set the tone of your day and help bring your vision to life. The right florist can design arrangements that complement wild landscapes instead of overpowering them. A skilled hair and makeup artist can give you a look that holds up through wind, hikes, or beach mist. A private chef can turn dinner into an intimate celebration, while an officiant or musician can add personal touches that make your ceremony feel unforgettable.

The beauty of elopements is that there are no rules. You can include as many or as few vendors as you want—what matters is choosing people who help create an atmosphere where you feel comfortable, present, and celebrated.

Common vendor roles for elopements include:

• Florals (bouquets, boutonnieres, ceremony arrangements)
• Hair & makeup artists familiar with outdoor conditions
• Private chef or caterer for a post-ceremony meal
• Musicians for ceremony or dinner ambiance
• Officiant
• Videographer to complement photography

Step 8: Building your Elopement timeline

An adventure elopement isn’t one without a good timeline. Timelines can often be overlooked, but they’re crucial. There are moments throughout your day that are too important to feel rushed—so having a timeline makes you prepared, relaxed, and confident.

A timeline does more than block out hours; it creates a rhythm for your day. It gives you the structure you need so you don’t miss the moments that matter most—while still leaving room for spontaneity. Instead of worrying about what’s next, you get to stay present, knowing the flow of the day is taken care of.

So what goes into an elopement timeline? It usually includes:

• Getting ready — slow mornings, detail photos, writing vows.
• First look — a private moment before the ceremony.
• Travel time — realistic buffers for driving or hiking between locations.
• Ceremony + vows — unhurried space for the heart of your day.
• Portraits + exploring — golden-hour light, candid adventures, quiet in-betweens.
• Activities — whether that’s a picnic, paddleboarding, a family toast, or stargazing.
• Meals + breaks — so you stay grounded and fueled.
• Sunrise or sunset moments — the most magical light of the day.

Every couple’s timeline looks different. Some span sunrise to sunset with hikes and stargazing. Others are shorter and more intimate, with a cozy cabin morning and a cliffside vow exchange. There’s no “right” format—the best timeline is the one that makes your day feel intentional, unhurried, and truly yours.

Example Timeline:

Full Day Elopement:

Sunrise to Sunset Elopement:

2-day Elopement:

Day 1 – With Family

Day 2 – Just the Two of You

Step 9: Shop for gears and wedding attires

Elopements are part wedding, part adventure — which means your outfits and gear should work for both. Sturdy boots, warm layers, headlamps, and a backpack big enough for vows, snacks, and maybe a bottle of champagne will keep you comfortable on the trail. For attire, choose what feels like you: a dress that flows in the wind, a suit you can hike in, or even a second outfit if you want a change between your ceremony and celebration.

And don’t worry about forgetting something — I’ll help you create a custom packing checklist tailored to your location and season. I’ll even recommend you the best places to shop for wedding attires so you can focus on choosing what excites you instead of stressing over what to bring.

Step 10: Finalize Elopement Logistics

By now, you’ve got the big pieces in place. Now it’s about making your day legal.

Here’s what you’ll need in terms of paperwork:

• Wedding Permits – Most national parks, state parks, or forests ask for a Special Use Permit for ceremonies. It’s basically their way of keeping these places protected for everyone. We’ll get this squared away early so you don’t have to stress about deadlines.
• Marriage License – There’s a three-day waiting period, and the license lasts 60 days. 2 witnesses are required once you get married.

I know, I know, the paperwork is so boring and even overwhelming sometimes when you’re looking at it alone. Feel free to reach out to me, and I can walk you through the the logistics so that you can have a stress-free elopement planning journey and that your day is 100% legal.

Step 11: Adventure, Elope, and Celebrate!

This is the fun part—the part where you let go of planning and lean into the moment.

Maybe you wake up slow, make coffee in a cabin, and hike out for a sunrise ceremony. Perhaps you exchange vows barefoot in the sand and end the night with pizza under string lights. You could climb into a hammock between two redwoods and laugh because why not?

There’s no script. No performance. Just you, your love, and a story only you could live.

That’s really what the idea of eloping is: uniquely your day. Everything you decide to do is personal, and you walk away with memories that feel like they could only ever belong to you.

Final Thoughts

Eloping is more than a wedding alternative—it’s an adventure, a declaration, and a chance to slow down in a world that’s always rushing.

If this sounds like what your heart’s been craving, I’d be honored to help you bring it to life. From permits to playlists, from morning coffee to starry skies, I’ll be there to guide, plan, and document it all—so you can focus on the only thing that matters: each other.

Get in touch here to start dreaming up your elopement.