9 Best Places to Elope in Washington State for the Adventurous
The Pacific Northwest is incredibly gorgeous and is the perfect place to host an intimate wedding or elopement. Washington is arguably the most ecologically diverse state in the country, so there is no shortage of outdoor locations worthy of saying “I do”.
As a local to Washington my entire life I’ve lived on both sides of the mountains and have seen it all. Check out my favorite places below and let me know your favorite!
1. Olympic National Park
Nowhere in Washington beats the diversity of the Olympic National Park. Find mountains, water, and rainforest all within a short drive from one another. It’s Washington’s largest national park and an incredible 95% of its land is designated wilderness. This is the perfect National Park to find peace and quiet amongst amazing views.
Click here for advice on how to elope in the Olympic National Park.
2. North Cascades
If you’re a fan of jagged mountains and alpine lakes, this is the place for you. Amazingly, the North Cascades is one of the least visited national parks in the United States, even though it is less than a three-hour drive from Seattle. Visit the “North American Alps” before the Pacific Northwest’s best-kept secret gets out.
Click here for tips on eloping in the North Cascades.
3. Mt Baker Snoqualmie National Forest
The central Cascades are only an hour away from Seattle and are extremely accessible year-round. They boast lakes, waterfalls, and multiple ski resorts. There is certainly something for everyone here.
4. Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier is Washington’s most iconic mountain, and for good reason — it’s stunning. A two-and-a-half-hour drive from Seattle gets you to a visitor center and directly in front of the mountain. Hike — or don’t — and see the mountain close up as long as it’s not hiding in clouds!
Click here for advice on how to elope in Mount Rainier National Park.
5. Okanogan Wenatchee National Forest
This is the home of the Enchantments and the most gorgeous state parks. Earn your views here by hiking or stay in Leavenworth — Washington’s most adorable town – and enjoy local parks along the river.
6. Eastern Washington Desert
Eastern Washington is known for its geological history dating back to the ice age. Nowadays, we enjoy deep river canyons, waterfalls, and beautiful rock formations throughout the desert here. It’s spectacularly different from what you’ll find in Western Washington.
7. Gifford Pinchot National Forest
Visit the Gifford Pinchot National Forest to find some of Washington’s biggest and most beautiful waterfalls amongst cozy forests. Nearby is the Mount St. Helens State Park, with caves, river canyons, and great mountain views.
8. The Washington Coast
Leave the crowds behind with a long drive (four hours from Seattle) to the most rugged beaches in the state. Here, the forest meets the ocean with 75 miles of coastline, but it’s the sea stacks, tide pools, and driftwood that keep bringing me back.
Click here to learn more about how you can elope in the Olympic National Park.
9. Columbia River Gorge
Last, but not least, is the infamous gorge. Come for the views of the Columbia River, but stay for the waterfalls and spring wildflowers. The views here are incomparable and best at sunset or sunrise.
Helping guide your plans and finding the best locations for your elopement is what I do as an adventure elopement photographer!
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