We gather here today to talk about this elopement at Todd Lake located in Bend Oregon. So this place is an absolute freaking gem. Todd Lake is located on the Cascade Lakes Scenic drive, which includes FOURTEEN alpine lakes. If you’re looking to elope on a waterfront with some gorgeous mountain views, any of these lakes are a great option. Each one of these spots can cater to different couples wanting to include different activities for their elopement. Here’s what Todd Lake has to offer.
Things To Do at Todd Lake
Let’s talk about everything you can include during an elopement at Todd Lake. This location is a really perfect option for couples who want to enjoy the incredible scenery that Bend has to offer without having to do a strenuous hike. When you first arrive in the parking lot, there is immediately a waterfall just through the trees. Look at your left and what do we have here? A gorgeous meadow filled with wildflowers overlooking Mt. Bachelor. This spot all by itself would be an incredible location for a ceremony, or even just some amazing bride and groom portraits.
The Hikes at Todd Lake
Following those two spots is the actual trailhead leading to the lake. It’s about a two-minute walk before you arrive at this stunning alpine lake and get views of the other mountains. All in all, this hike around the entire lake is only 1.7 miles and mostly flat. If you’re looking to find a hike that is both easy and scenic so you can do it while wearing your wedding gear, this is totally the spot for you. Once you arrive at the other end of the lake is a meadow. During peak wildflower season, it’s littered with vibrant wildflowers. Including my absolute favorite red flower called the Indian paintbrush. It’s a more rare flower and I was thrilled to see so many of them all around this meadow. A huge plus to having your elopement at Todd Lake, especially if you’re a wildflower person.
Whereas Todd Lake is a perfect choice for a couple who wants a nice and relaxing hike, it also appeals to those who want to do something a little more intense. This trailhead can also take you to No Name Lake. And while this lake doesn’t have a “real” name, it is easily one of the most stunning views Bend has to offer. This hike is 15 miles and more advanced, but holy hell if it isn’t worth it. This would be perfect for those who want to spend most of their elopement day hiking, or even want to celebrate their wedding with a backpacking trip. Believe me, an elopement at Todd Lake has something for everyone.
Additional Activities
In case these amazing options weren’t enough to sell you on Todd Lake as your elopement destination, here are a few more. The lake is a two-minute easy walk from the parking lot. If you’re interested in adding activities into your elopement such as paddleboarding, kayaking, or canoeing, (or just a good ole’ lake swim) then Todd Lake has your name written all over it.
Finally, this would be an incredible spot for a lavish picnic. There’s tons of space all around the lake to set up blankets, chairs, and your absolute favorite food for a bomb picnic. I have had couples who have packed things for charcuterie boards, a full meal, and even their wedding cake! Eloping at Todd Lake really means opening yourself up to a ton of different options.
The Elopement at Todd Lake
Let’s talk about this elopement at Todd Lake. Annika and Takota are an absolutely adorable couple. They wanted to spend their elopement enjoying a relaxing hike, and taking a sunset dip in the water. We first arrived and the couple finished getting their wedding gear on in the parking lot. As we started to hike around the lake, we stopped to enjoy the views and get tons of photos at all of the different twists and turns through the trail. Once we reached the meadows, the ceremony began. The couple wanted to have a “just us” experience and read their vows privately to each other. After that, we popped some champagne and headed to another section of the lake.
Annika and Takota ran into the water and started splashing each other. This lake is pretty shallow and stays fairly warm the entire summer season. They got completely drenched after they concluded their splash warm and alpine lake swim. Annika fell in love with two dresses and wanted to be able to wear them both at her Todd Lake elopement. Remember that meadow in front of Mt. Bachelor that I mentioned? Bingo. We walked over to their car so she could change into her second dress and headed towards the meadow for a second portrait session.
Portrait Session by Mt. Bachelor
We had some serious smoke going on during the time of their Todd Lake elopement. Although, it gave us some really beautiful colors in the sunset, and the moon was hanging directly over the mountain. Bachelor was definitely obstructed by the smoke and it was a lot harder to see than usual. But as you can see, the photos still came out beautifully and the couple had SUCH a good time. You can’t deny the beauty of Todd Lake, even if there’s some rain or fog (which does tend to happen here in the PNW.)
Interested in Todd Lake for your elopement location? Get in touch with me below so we can start planning your awesome day! Or check out my blog to read more about planning your elopement, as well as all of the beautiful locations here in Bend, Oregon
