Dramatic West Coast Cliffside Marriage Proposal
The further I drove out on the Olympic Peninsula, the foggier it was getting. When I got to the trailhead, there were cargo ships tooting fog horns in the distance — a very bad sign. I was afraid the views, like the ships signaling to one another, would be socked in with fog.
The plan was for Kevin and Kaitlin to meet me at the first overlook on the trail, conveniently step in front of my camera on a tripod to check out the beautiful sight below, and then propose when he felt ready. Since there is no cell service here, there would be no way to change the plan, even if the scene was covered in a wall of clouds.
When I got to the overlook, I was so relieved to have views of the sea stacks below. The clouds were constantly moving through the shoreline, so I was on edge in fear that the huge cloud bank on the horizon would be moving in next.
Thankfully, Kevin and Kaitlin arrived before that could happen. He was wearing a red shirt and khakis, just as he said he would be, and to my surprise, Kaitlin was in a dress. Not only had he convinced her to dress up for this hike, but he’d also gotten her to get her nails done the week before without raising any suspicion.
Everything went as planned — he asked her to marry him, she said yes, and the setting was perfect! After giving them time to enjoy the moment, we wandered down the rest of the trail together capturing this precious day.
They are originally from Utah and are residing in Washington for a travel nurse position, so this was their first visit to the Olympic National Park. They were in awe of the trees — exclaiming they’ll never be able to enjoy hiking anywhere else now.
The views, sights, and forests are one of a kind in Washington — I’ve always said we’re spoiled here, and I’m so glad you two have had a chance to enjoy it. Congratulations again, Kevin and Kaitlin!
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