Washington is an amazing elopement location. The vast and diverse landscape can bring you so many different things, such as snow capped mountains, stunning National Parks, rugged coastline, and dense forests. This is one of my favorite places to shoot elopements. This guide is going to go over everything you need to consider, such as locations, crowds, seasons, and permits. Read on to find out exactly how to elope in Washington, and see the most beautiful Washington elopement locations.

When to Elope in Washington State

The best time to elope in Washington State is late summer to early fall. This is when you have the best weather, access to all trails due to snowmelt, and crowds lessen the closer you get to fall. However, it’s important to look at each season and figure out what would be best for you! Here’s a breakdown of what each season offers so you can find the perfect time for your Washington elopement:

Spring Washington Elopement

Spring (March-May) Will be lush and green in lower elevations, with wildflowers beginning to appear. There will still be rain around this time of year, and it can be a bit more volatile weather wise. Mount Rainier and North Cascades start to thaw, offering incredible views as the snow melts. However, it’s hard to plan anything within the mountains this time of year, as a lot of trails still have snowpack until mid July.

Summer Washington Elopement

Summer (June-September) is the most popular season to elope in Washington, and for a good reason! The weather is warm, the skies are (usually) clear, and all the mountain trails are accessible. This is the ideal time for those dreaming of alpine lakes, wildflower meadows, or iconic views of Mount Baker. Keep in mind that popular spots like Mount Rainier and Olympic National Park can get busy, but I can help you find hidden gems for a more intimate experience.

Fall Washington Elopement

Fall (October-November) transforms Washington into a golden wonderland. The crisp air and vibrant foliage make this season truly special. The forests of the Cascades and Olympic Peninsula come alive with shades of orange, red, and yellow, offering a stunning backdrop for your elopement. While the weather can be unpredictable with occasional rain, the beauty and tranquility of this season are worth it. There are also way less crowds this time of year!

Winter Washington Elopement

Washington’s winters (December-February) are magical for couples who love snow-covered landscapes and cozy vibes. The mountains, like Stevens Pass or Snoqualmie, are blanketed in snow, creating a serene and intimate setting. While access to some locations may be limited, the stunning winter scenery and opportunities for snowshoeing or cozy lodge stays make this season perfect for adventurous elopements.

Washington State Elopement Locations

There are endless amounts of Italy elopement locations to choose from. From mountains, islands, cities, and more. As an elopement photographer, I make a customized location list for my couples based on their needs, this includes: landscape, drive times, how much they do or don’t want to hike, ideal weather, and guest count. For now, here are some of the top stunning elopement locations in Italy:

Mt. Rainier National Park

Mt. Rainier Permit Information

All elopement happening in Mt. Rainier require a permit. You can look into the special use permitting here. If you want to elope on a trail, you need to have under 12 guests. Other locations such as campgrounds, and road side locations, can have more guests.

When to Elope in Mt. Rainier

To avoid snow on the ground on the trails, you’ll want to plan your elopement sometime in mid July and before November. If you don’t mind snow and want to see less crowds, you get elope in Mt. Rainier in the spring!

Mt. Baker National Forest

Mt. Baker Permit Information

A permit for an elopement in Mt. Baker is not required unless you’re having over 75 guests. If you do have more than 75, you will have to apply for a special use permit.

When to Elope in Mt. Baker

Mt. Baker will still have snow on the trails until about mid July. July to November will be the best times to elope here if you don’t want to deal with any road or trail closures. Plus, summer months you will be able to see wildflowers!

North Cascades National Park

North Cascades Permit Information

You will need a special use permit to elope in North Cascades National Park, and the permit is $50

When to Elope in North Cascades National Park

North Cascades National Park is another location that sits at very high elevation. That being said, it has much cooler temps, even in the summer. To avoid snow or chilly weather, pick an elopement date somewhere between late June and mid October

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park Permit Information

You will need to apply for a special use wedding permit to elope here. The best way to do this is download the special use permit application, fill it out, and email it to forest service. They don’t have the price of this application listed

When to Elope in Olympic National Park

Olypmic National Park has snow-free locations year round. So if you’d prefer to avoid the summer crowds, eloping in Spring and Fall is going to be the best choice for you. However, I think fall is the better choice with more predictable weather.

Gifford Pinchot National Forest

Gifford Pinchot Permit Information

You do not need a permit to elope in Gifford Pinchot unless you are having over 75 guests at your elopement! If you do intend to have more guests, you can find the application here.

When to Elope in Gifford Pinchot

This location can still have snow in the spring. But end of spring and beginning of Summer there are usually a ton of locations where all snow has melted and there aren’t crowds. Fall is also an incredible time elope in Gifford Pinchot with the changing colors and temperate weather.

Ruby Beach

Ruby Beach Permit Information

You will need to apply for a special use wedding permit to elope here. The best way to do this is download the special use permit application, fill it out, and email it to forest service. They don’t have the price of this application listed

When to Elope at Ruby Beach

You can visit Ruby Beach year round. If you’d like to avoid crowds, the best time to elope is late spring or early fall. Winter is an option, but I personally think elopements on the beach are not as fun in winter due to the rain and cold weather, unless you want to wear layers with a potential summer dress.

Snoqualmie Pass

Snoqualmie Pass Permit Information

Permits are required and need to be established 30 days in advance. You can find the application here.

When to Elope in Snoqualmie Pass

Early summer when the snow melts is when a lot of the waterfalls will be truly gushing. Later in summer, the wildflowers start to come out and are simply stunning. I actually even love winter here. This location is pretty great year-round, so just make a decision based off your preferences and what you’d like to see the most.

Mt. St. Helens

Mt. St. Helens Permit Information

I haven’t been able to find specific permit information for Mt. St. Helens. It would be necessary to call the local forest service and ask.

When to Elope at Mt. St. Helens

Late June and early October will be the best weather, and when all the snow melt is gone. Around mid to late July the mountain is also blooming with wildflowers.

Lake Cushman

Lake Cushman Permit Information

Lake Cushman is within Skokomish State Park. Calling them directly will give you the answers you need on getting a permit. One is typically needed for State Parks, and often cheap.

When to Elope at Lake Cushman

In my experience, this location hasn’t ever been too crowded. You’d be safe to elope in the summer if you want to enjoy warm days and temperate evenings. This lake would also be stunning in fall when the colors are changing.

Artist’s Point

Artist Point Permit Information

You will need a permit for this location, and you can apply for it here!

When to Elope at Artists Point

Artist’s Point has a tighter window for avoiding snowfall. If you would like for your elopement to be snow free, I highly recommend a loping at artist point between July and September.

Gold Creek Pond

Gold Creek Pond Permit Information

As of right now, you do not need a permit to have an elopement at Gold Creek Pond!

When to Elope at Gold Creek Pond

If you want a snow-free and rain-free elopement in the Washington sun, your best bet is going to be having your Gold Creek Pond elopement in July or August!

Lodging for Washington Elopements

Lodging is important when it comes to elopements. A lot of couples incorporate their lodging into aspects of their wedding day. For example, getting ready + getting ready photos, a first look, an intimate reception with friends, a dinner made by a private chef, etc. Once you’ve decided what you’ll incorporate in your day, pick a location that will allow everything you want to include.

If you want to host an intimate reception, I highly recommend a vacation rental such as a cabin or an Airbnb. You can also stay at hotels, resorts, chalets, campgrounds, etc. Here is my list of airbnbs for a Washington elopement.

How to Elope in Washington

You plan a Washington elopement in similar ways as you’d plan any adventure elopement. There are a few major steps, and you can read about those here on my thorough guide on how to elope. For this Washington elopement guide, I’m going over the major things you’ll need to consider!

1. DECIDE IF YOU’RE HAVING GUESTS

This is an imperative part of the planning process for elopements. This is because some guests won’t have the hiking ability, some might not want to drive or forest roads, and others will be apt to altitude sickness. In National Parks, you can also only have so many guests at certain locations. Choosing a location will be much easier once you’ve determine who you’re inviting, and how many guests total you’ll have.

2.HIRE YOUR WASHINGTON ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER

This might feel early in the planning process, but bear with me. Elopements don’t have wedding planners. Most elopement photographers have taken it upon themselves to help couples with some of the planning. Many actually help you find your location! And they will think of things you might not have considered, such as: lighting, elevation, difficulty in hiking in a dress, permits, and so much more.

Each elopement photographer offers something different. Personally, I send my couples a customized list of locations, lodging options, and activity ideas based on their preferences, hiking ability, who they want to invite, and what they want to see. I also help them determine lodging options, get permits, get their marriage license, recommend vendors, and create a comprehensive day of timeline, and offer unlimited guidance calls for any questions along the way.

The being said, hiring your Washington elopement photographer early is going to take a massive amount of planning stress off of your shoulders. Wanna chat? Contact me here!

3.DETERMINE WHAT WEATHER YOU WANT TO BE IN

This is going to help you choose a date and location. Some areas in Washington receive way more rain than others, and some stay a lot colder year round. Determine what type of weather you want to be in, and research what each season brings, and this will greatly help you determine a time of year for your elopement, as well as a general region. 

4.PICK YOUR WASHINGTON ELOPEMENT LOCATION

Once you’ve decided on how much you’d like to hike, how many guests are coming, your ideal weather, and the landscapes you want, you’re ready to deep dive into researching Washington elopement locations. Finding the perfect spot will be a lot simpler after considering all of your needs and logistics.

This is information I collect from my couples through a questionnaire, and then use to make a customized list of Washington elopement location options for them.

5.HIRE WASHINGTON ELOPEMENT VENDORS

Once you have your location, it’s time to consider if there’s anything you need vendors for. Do you need any event rentals? Do you want a friend or family to officiate, or do you want to hire an officiant? Will you go out to eat, or do you want something catered, like a meal at an Airbnb from a private chef?

Figure out what extra services you may want, and hire your vendors in advance!

6.GET YOUR WASHINGTON ELOPEMENT PERMITS

You will need to get the correct permits for your elopement. These are usually “special use” permits that you apply for on the National Parks website, or National Forest/BLM website.

Personally, I get all permit information for my eloping couples that hire me. With that, all you need to do is fill out the application when it’s sent to you and pay the fee. Fee’s vary, but are usually around $150 or less.

7.CHOOSE ADDITIONAL WASHINGTON ELOPEMENT ACTIVITIES

Activities are such a fun part of an elopement. When you choose to elope, you’re opening yourself up to having a wedding day celebration that feels unique and resonates with you. Incorporate things that will elevate your elopement day experience. Here’s just a few ideas to get you brainstorming:

• Hike to alpine lakes
• Beach bonfire
• Hot air balloon ride
• Scenic helicopter tour
• Swim in waterfalls (or just visit them)
• Soak in hot springs
• Have a private chef cook you a multiple course meal in a cabin
• Zipline through pine trees
• Have a luxury picnic in a meadow of wildflowers
• Do a sunset dinner cruise
• Pop champagne at the top of a mountain
• Run around the Seattle fish market in your wedding attie
• Get fancy cocktails (or mocktails) in the city
• Have a big bonfire with all of your favorite deserts
• Dance under the stars and get pictures
• Explore the coast with lanterns and find secret beaches

8. MAKE A DAY-OF WASHINGTON ELOPEMENT TIMELINE

Making a timeline is an important part of any elopement. It strings together all of your locations, activities, and lets guests know where to be and when. Creating a well thought out timeline will help you feel relaxed during the day, instead of stressed or rush. Make sure to include drive times as well as buffer times between each “event.”

Here are the things I include in the timelines I make for my couples:

• All addresses
• Sunrise time
• Sunset time
• Drive times
• A linke to Accuweather
• A list of all names for group shots
• Vendor info
• Emergency contact info
• A packing list

How to Get a Marriage License in Washington

the first thing you will need to do is apply online. Once you have applied for your application you will schedule an appointment. The easiest way is for both of you to come into the office in person. Although, if you can’t be there in person, you’re able to submit your application through the mail so long as it’s notarized. There is a three day waiting period in the state of Washington, so keep that in mind when planning your elopement, as it cannot be waived.

Once you are approved, pay the fee, and wait the three day waiting period you’re all set to get married. Although, the marriage license is only valid for 60 days. That’s another thing to keep in mind when planning your wedding day and applying.

Do I Need a Permit for a Washington Elopement?

For National Parks, you’re going to need to apply for a special use permit. Generally, you’ll want to get these once you know how many locations you’re going to, and how many guests you’ll have with you. For National Forests, you normally only need a permit if you’re going to have 75 or more guests attending. But this can vary, and it’s always a good choice to call the National Park service and make sure.

Do I Need an Officiant and Witness for a Washington Elopement?

Yes, you need an officiant to elope in Washington. Although this can be a friend or family who has gotten ordained online. Just make sure that they know how to fill out and mail in the paperwork! The state of Washington also requires two witnesses for your elopement. Once again this can be friends or family, it can even include your vendors. I’ve also had couples elope with no one, and simply ask other people on the trail to sign for them, which they were happy to do.

How Much Does it Cost to Elope in Washington State

With a special use permit and entry fees, it costs around $200.00 to elope in Washington State. That being said, most couples spend an average of $5000-$20,000 on their elopement. This includes flights, lodging, permits, vendors, wedding attire, meals, and anything extra a couple might want.

Can I have Guests at my Washington Elopement?

Yes! An elopement never means you don’t have to invite guests. Generally, couples keep it to 25 or less. Once you have more guests, it’s more of an “intimate wedding.” Semantics, right? With that being said, less guests are easier to manage. Especially if you’re looking to have an adventurous elopement. It’s hard to corral 40 people for a hike. Or even get them to multiple locations.

With that being said, you can absolutely have guests at your Washington elopement. I would just consider what you want your day to look like prior to making that decision. Guests can make your day even more special if it’s important to you. And again, most National Forests don’t even require a permit under 75 people.

Washington Elopement Timeline Examples

If you’re wondering what a Washington elopement timeline example could look like, I’ll give you some ideas below. You have the option of booking a half-day, full-day, or even multi-day elopement! This time can be filled with activities, time to rest, eat, and just be present with your parter and possible guests.

Half-Day Washington Elopement

• 4PM – Photographer arrives, gets detail shots of bride and groom getting ready
• 4:30PM – First look at getting ready location
• 5:00PM – Leave for hike in Mt. Rainier
• 6:00PM – Hike, ceremony, taking photos
• 7:30PM – return from hike, head to second location for picnic
• 8:00PM – Picnic, exploring, golden hour photos
• 9:00PM – Photographer leaves

Full-Day Washington Elopement

• 12PM- photographer arrives, gets detail shots of bride and groom getting ready.
• 1:00PM – First look
• 1:30PM – Couple drives to Mt. Baker
• 2:30PM – Arrive at Mt. Baker, begin hike to ceremony
• 3:30PM – Ceremony starts, exploring and photos after
• 4:30PM – Picnic and celebration in the mountains, Champagne, food, and cake
• 6:00PM – Exploring and couple portraits
• 7:00PM – Head back into town
• 8:00PM – Sunset cruise in Bellingham with food and drinks
• 9:00PM – final sunset photos, cruise ends, photographer leaves

Two Day Washington Elopement

Day 1

• 12PM – Welcome brunch at Airbnb for couple and guests
• 1:30PM – Leave for hike in Olympic National Park
• 3PM – photos of couples and possible guests exploring
• 4PM – visit hot springs, get photos
• 5PM – return to rental and have a bonfire + dinner, photographer leaves

Day 2

• 12PM- photographer arrives, detail shots of bride and groom getting ready
• 1:00PM – First look
• 1:30PM – head to ceremony location
• 3:00PM – ceremony, photos, group photos
• 4:00PM – Return to lodging for catered dinner, toasts, cake (reception)
• 7:00PM – head to second location for private time and golden hour photos
• 8:00PM – Sunset photos, exploring, any activities
• 9:00PM – photographer leaves

Washington Elopement Packages

Elopement photography by Emilee Setting Photo, and everything included in my packages:

• Explore anywhere within Washington, all travel fees included in the price!
• Packages from half day elopements to multi-day elopements
• Recieve a customized location list
• Included timeline design
• Help obtaining your permits
• A planning checklist
• All of your stunning photos delivered under three months
• Day of polaroid sneak peeks

California elopement packages starting at $6400. Want more information on my pricing and what’s included? Click here

FAQ’s

Can I Elope in Washington?

Yes! Your marriage will be completely legal, and you can elope wherever you want in Washington with a special use permit and the proper documents (marriage license.)

How Much Does it Cost to Elope in Washington?

You can elope in Washington for $72. This is the cost of your marriage license. You might also need a special use permit, but your location could end up being free to elope. If you plan on hiring vendors, it could range from $6000-$15,000 depending on how lavish you’d like it to be!

Why Should We Elope in Washington?

Washington State has something for everyone. The variety of landscapes are incredibly vast. You also don’t need to be an avid hiker to find absolutely incredible views here. At the end of the day, you should elope wherever you want! Washington is simply an incredible option.

Where Can I Elope in Washington?

You can elope anywhere in Washington state. From the National Parks, to national forests, to mountain towns such as Leavenworth, or the bustling city of Seattle.

Ready to Elope in Washington?

This Washington elopement guide is a way to get you excited about all the possibilities of what your day could look like. Although, this amount of information can be overwhelming. I’m here to help. I can answer any and all questions you have on a complimentary low pressure consultation call. If you then choose you’d like to work together, I’ll do all of this planning right by your said to alleviate any stress, and bring your Washington elopement vision to life. We can chat here!