We are spoiled with gorgeous landscapes in Washington — including mountains, beaches, rainforests, and deserts. So many incredible places make deciding where to take your engagement difficult, but that’s the best kind of problem to have.

In order to ease your decision-making, I’ve compiled a list of the top 17 best locations to take engagement photos in the state of Washington.

1. North Cascades National Park

The North Cascades is arguably the most beautiful place in the state of Washington. Find turquoise lakes, mountain-filled views, and incredible sights around every bend.

2. Vantage, WA

Desert vibes with views of the Columbia River Gorge? Yes, please. Plus, Eastern Washington almost guarantees sunshine. Plan your session around sunset and you’ll likely get some gorgeous golden hour glow like this couple did here. Just be prepared for a little wind at times!

3. Spokane, WA

Spokane is full of gorgeous parks and is near the Colville National Forest. Take your photos near the icy blue river, amongst the trees, or at one of the many nearby lakes.

4. Fire Lookouts

If hiking is your thing, choose to take photos at the top of your favorite mountain or fire lookout. Take full advantage of the 360-degree views by taking photos during golden hour.

5. The Washington Coast

The Washington coast is really something special. See it in all its glory by visiting a beach in the Olympic National Park. Some, beaches require light hiking to get to them, while others have access right off the parking lot.

6. Gifford Pinchot National Forest

With various landscapes from forests, waterfalls, and volcano views, the Gifford Pinchot National Forest is a dream location to explore.

7. Sea to Sky Highway – British Columbia

Although this isn’t Washington, and it is by far the most inconvenient location to get to, I had to add this location to my list after a recent trip to Whistler. The Sea to Sky highway is simply stunning. The alpine lakes, surrounding mountains, and forest make it well worth the trip. Visit in the fall if you want to capture shots with the trees and mountains dusted with snow.

8. Seattle, WA

If you don’t have the ability to travel far from the city, try shooting at a local park. The Puget Sound is full of gorgeous parks that are so large and lush you’ll forget you’re still within the city limits.

9. Waterfalls

We’re spoiled with waterfalls here in the Pacific Northwest. There are so many easily accessible waterfalls throughout the region and they make for the best photo ops!

10. Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest is gorgeous in any season. Visit during fall for spectacular colors, or winter to find snow.

11. The Columbia River Gorge

Come for the views of the Columbia River Gorge, but end your visit by cooling off at a nearby waterfall. Although beautiful year-round, schedule your engagement photos for Spring to find wildflowers.

12. Central Cascades

Gorgeous any time of year, the Mt. Baker Snoqualmie National Forest is the perfect place to visit any season. There is plenty of snow during winter, and alpine lakes, waterfalls, and forests are accessible year-round.

13. Eastern Washington Desert

Eastern Washington has a fascinating geological history, and therefore incredible landscapes. The Great Flood in Ice Age times formed deep river gorges, large waterfalls, and sandy dunes throughout the state. Take your pick of sights and delight in this unique desert.

14. Gig Harbor, WA

If you’re interested in nautical themes, Gig Harbor is only a 40-minute drive south of Seattle. It has the cutest docks, marinas, and a beach with a view of the iconic Tacoma Narrows bridge. If you’re a water lover or #SouthSoundProud, this is your place.

15. Take a ferry

You can’t get much more PNW than ferries. Walk on and time your ride to view the sunset as you approach Seattle, or go during midday and you may have the expansive car deck to yourself.

16. Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier is the perfect photo shoot location any time of year. Expect to see snow until July, and be prepared for possible rain no matter the season. July and August are the sunniest months to visit, but they’re also the most crowded so schedule your shoot for sunrise or sunset when the light is beautiful and the crowds lessen.

17. The Olympic National Park

If you can’t decide between wanting photos at the beach, forest, or mountains, the Olympic Peninsula is the place for you. The Olympic National Park is full of gorgeous mountain views and lakes.