How to Elope in Washington

A complete guide on how to Elope in Washington

(Updated for 2026 Washington Elopements)

The Pacific Northwest is any couple’s dream for a romantic elopement surrounded the lush greenery, quiet woods on top of a mountain peak or by the waves as the sun sets. We are lucky to the North Cascades mountain range home. We even personally eloped in Washington on a six day back packing trip around the base of Mount Rainier!

If you crave adventure, mountains, water, good food and unique experiences this could be for you!

How to elope in Washington State

Embarking on an elopement in Washington State is a journey of romance and adventure.

Washington State Elopement Planning Check list

• Select your date
• Book your Washington State Elopement photographer
• Select your elopement location
• Apply for your permit (if required)
• Book your travel to Washington
• Apply for your marriage license
• Pack appropriately for the weather and terrain

In this blog, we will dive into each aspect of planning your Washington elopement that you should consider to have the best experience on your day!

When is the best time to elope in Washington?

Washington is an evergreen state, it is known for being gray and rainy, but that is not always the case!

There is a short time frame when the weather is at its very best. However, it is also important to know that weather varies in each region of Washington, specifically Western versus Eastern side of the mountain ranges.

Here is a break down monthly of what Washington weather can be like:

• January + February – Winter! Lots of rain and clouds in the lower elevation, and lots of snow in the mountains.
• March + April – The mountains are still getting a lot of snow, but there are a few sunnier days in the lower elevations.
• May – Bring on the stunning Spring flowers out in Eastern WA in the Leavenworth and Wenatchee area! This is the start of mountaineering season in the higher elevation.
• June – While snow is still present in the mountains, this is a great time to be in Olympic National Park for mild temperatures, some rainy days.
• July – July is when the weather turns in the mountains, late July you can expect wild flowers and most roads to be back open. Mid-July can be quiet in the mountains with still some snow on the ground.
• August – This is the most prime month in Washington State, great weather, sunshine and some wildflowers still.
• September – This is when the weather turns, and usually you have a lot of cloudy days, some rainy days, and fall foliage starts in the middle of the month.
• October – The first snowfall in the mountains usually happens early to mid October, roads will start to close again once the snow is back. The stunning larches start to change color in the Eastern range.
• November + December – Winter is coming back! Bring out your skis!

In our opinion, the best time to elope in Washington is late July. For a wider window, we recommend June to the first week of October.

How to select your date for your elopement in Washington?

• Consider your ideal weather
• Consider the location you want to elope in Washington in relation to the weather
• Consider if it is a busy date or not (We recommend avoiding holidays and weekends)
• Make sure there are no scheduled road closures

Where are the best places to elope in Washington State?

While Washington is full of stunning places to elope there are five that stand out to us the most!

Here are the 5 best places to elope in Washington:

• Mount Rainier National Park
• Olympic National Park
• Mount Baker National Forest
• Leavenworth
• San Juan Islands

We are so excited to dive into it and share with you why we think these locations in Washington offer the best experience for your elopement day!

Mount Rainier

Mount Rainier National Park is a fantastic place to elope with just you two, between July and September, for the most ideal weather.

Mount Rainier, is a prominent feature of Washington’s landscape known for its towering presence, snow-capped peak, and the surrounding forests and wildflower meadows. I would also like to mention that the National Forest land surrounding the South and North side of the mountain have some pretty incredible elopement locations as well. Some have views of Mount Rainier, Mount Adams, Mount St Helens and on a clear day even Mt Hood!

Why we love it: Mount Rainier has stunning backpacking trails, beautiful waterfalls, alpine lakes, fire towers and accessible locations to elope at. Also, we ourselves eloped here!

You do need a permit to elope in Mount Rainier which can be obtained on the National Park’s website.

Address: 39000 State Route 706 E, Ashford, WA 98304

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is filled with rainforests, towering ancient trees, beautiful mountain peaks, breathtaking lakes, and rugged coastal beaches with driftwood and sea stacks. 

This a great elopement location for just you two or you two and some guests. We recommend June to early October, but truthfully year year-round is pretty nice here.

Why we love it: You can easily spend a full day here or two days here having the most epic elopement. Many places are easy to get to and accessible for your elopement planning, but there are also amazing places that require 3-30 miles of hiking. We love the backpacking destinations in this park, from the coast and up to the glaciers!! This park stands out as the most diverse place you can visit in Washington.

If you have over 5 people in total in your group size you will need a permit to elope in Olympic National Park which can be obtained on the park’s website.

Address: 3002 Mt Angeles Rd, Port Angeles, WA 98362

Leavenworth, WA

Leavenworth is a quaint German-inspired town hidden away in the mountains with epic long trails that lead you to some incredible mountains, alpine lakes, and in the fall stunning larches turning yellow.

Why We Like It: This is a fun elopement location for adventure, a place to dine and go out with family and friends, stay in beautiful cabins along the river that you can float, and more! To us the best parts of Leavenworth involve some backpacking to access, like the Enchantments. It is also our favorite place to spend early October for the best weather and larch hikes.

No permits are required on the National Forest Land in this area; however, if you choose to get married at the State Park, you will need a permit. We also often recommend considering a venue in this area if you have guests.

Address: 800 Front St. Leavenworth, WA 98826

San Juan Islands

The San Juan Islands are uniquely charming, with their quaint harbors, scenic coastlines, and the possibility of spotting marine wildlife. The romantic sunsets over the water are hard to beat.

Why We Like It: Step away from the mountains just for a little bit from April to October, you even get the chance to see whales along the islands! This is a great place to elope if you are looking for something peaceful, and slow-paced with mountain and ocean views. Our favorite thing about the islands is access to the seaplane rides.

We highly recommend choosing between: Orcas Island, Sucia Island or the Friday Harbor area for your elopement.

Address: 165 First St. South, Friday Harbor, WA (visitors center)

Mount Baker National Forest

My friends, welcome to our backyard! This region is also commonly called the North Cascades.

Known as the “American Alps”, this region is characterized by jagged peaks, alpine meadows, and pristine lakes. Mt. Baker, a prominent feature in the area, is a snow-capped volcano known for its stunning vistas, lush national forests, and serene lakes. This region’s diverse landscape, ranging from rugged mountain wilderness to tranquil forested valleys, provides an idyllic setting for a nature-inspired wedding ceremony.

Why We Like It: We choose it as our base because we love that the trails are dog friendly, the summer hiking is amazing, and the winter access to a snow-filled playground are all top notch. This region is home to the best mountain views in the state, hiking, backpacking, off-roading, kayaking, hot springs, and stargazing.

No permits are needed for the National Forest Land, however, if you choose a location in the North Cascades National Park, you will need a permit.

Address: 7280 Ranger Station Rd., Marblemount, WA 98267 (visitor center)

Permits needed to elope in Washington

A special use permit is a permit needed to hold your wedding ceremony on public land. Typically, these are needed for eloping in the National Parks or State Parks. These permits typically range from $50 to $250, however, we have seen permits cost over $500 in Washington State before, based on guest count on DNR land, but this is not common! Either way – significantly cheaper than a boring ole wedding venue with no views 🙂

Once you have the date, location, and time, you can apply for your permit. It is recommended to apply for these permits at least 45 days in advance. We recommend that our couples not apply for their permit until we have their final timeline completed – this helps prevent the need to reapply in the event of any changes during early planning.

As your Washington elopement photographers, we will help you through this process to make it as easy and streamlined as possible. During planning you can expect us:

• Share if your location requires as permit
• The paperwork you need to apply
• Helpful notes for filling out your permit
• Where to send the paperwork once it is completed
• We will also send you a reminder in your packing list to have your permit printed out and on your person throughout your elopement day

How to Legally Elope in Washington

No matter what state you call home, you can legally get married in Washington and it will be recognized where you live!

Overall, the process is pretty simple, but something that is not common in most states that exists here in Washington is the three-day holding period between when you get your paperwork and when you can get married.

We will break it all down for you…

Step-by-Step Guide for Legal Requirements in Washington

1. Choose an Officiant and Witnesses: In Washington, you need an officiant and two witnesses for your marriage. Keep in mind you can always find witnesses on the trail!,
2. Apply for a Marriage License: Apply at a county auditor’s office or online (currently only in Whatcom County). You can apply in any county, not necessarily where you’re eloping.
3. Consider the Waiting Period: There’s a three-day waiting period after applying for your license. Plan your travel accordingly, especially if applying in person.
4. Mind the Validity Period: The license is valid for 60 days post-issuance. Marry within this timeframe.
5. Check the Fees: License fees vary by county, so confirm the cost for your specific county.
6. Post-Ceremony Steps: After your ceremony, ensure the marriage documents are signed and mail them back to the issuing county office. Typically, this is something your officiant is responsible for.
7. Choose a Convenient Location for Paperwork: If eloping in Mt. Rainier, consider obtaining paperwork in Tacoma for a special document featuring a photo of the mountain.
8. Official Government Resources: Visit the Washington government site for detailed information and guidance on obtaining your marriage license.

Washington Elopement Officiant

Do not be overwhelmed by the paperwork, it is actually really easy! Plus, you have us in your corner to help! During the planning process,we will remind you when to pull your paperwork and provide you all the step by step info you need. Everyone on our team is ordained and can sign as your officiant.

We are here to help you with writing your own ceremony if you want to “self-solemnize,” or we can help one of your guests write a ceremony if you have a loved one who wants to officiate for you.

If you are working with Traci and Bill directly, Bill can write and perform your ceremony. Either way, we are also happy to help your guest write a ceremony as well.

How much does it cost to elope in Washington?

This is not a one-size-fits-all answer, it depends on what is important to you on this day, what you want to spend on, and your travel. Here is a checklist of things to write down and budget for that can help you determine the cost of your elopement in Washington!

• Photographer with an elopement package
• Attire + Adventure Gear
• Permits ($0-$500)
• Accommodations
• Rental Car
• Flight
• Food
• Florals
• Hair and Make-up
• Officiant (included in our services, or you can ask a friend/family member)
• Video
• Vow Books + other wedding related items
• Marriage paperwork

Washington State Elopement Packages

Ready for your Washington elopement? Fantastic! When it comes to capturing your big day, consider our elopement photography packages. Designed for those seeking at least half half-day-long adventure in nature, these packages offer everything from mini elopements to 2-day elopements, complete with full planning support, personalized guides, and a custom timeline to ensure your day is as unique as your love story. On your free consult call, we will. help you decide which package is best for you!

You can expect these in every package:

• International award-winning photographers whose captured over 200 + elopement days
• Officiant + one witness as needed
• No Travel fees
• Virtual + In Person Scouting of your elopement location
• Elopement “Bible” 95 pages guide on how to get the most out of your day + planning tips
• Leave No Trace Guide for you + your guests (if you have any)
• Personalized timeline for you + your guests (if you have any)
• Vendor recommendations
• Drone coverage if allowed (not allowed inside of the parks, but at some stays + NF land)
• Same day sneak peak images sent to your phone
• Full photo gallery within 6 weeks + video is delivered within 8 weeks if you choose to add on our video service.

As our home state, we can not express enough how much we love capturing elopements in Washington. Our washington elopement packages start at 6 hours of coverage for a quick but meaningful wedding to multi-day adventures that can scale up to the mountains and down to the moody coast! Our packages are designed with you in mind, your experience and crafting a wedding day with an unforgettable adventure!

Washington Elopement Videographer

We also offer video highlights! This way, you can also see and relive your elopement day in Washington in motion. Check out the elopement day highlight reel! This was a two-day elopement spanning from Olympic National Park to the Mt Baker region.

Washington State Timeline Samples

Planning a timeline is never easy, even for elopements if you are not familiar with building them!

That’s why, as your elopement photographer’s we spend the time with you to help you pick the location, the activities, and truly put together a timeline that does not rush your experience.

Below are just a couple of example timelines from past elopements we have captured to give you an idea of what the day can look like. For more information about building timelines, how much time you may need and ideas, be sure to check out this resource.

Sunrise to Sunset Mt Baker Elopement Timeline

• 6:00 am: Getting ready at the Airbnb cabin with hair and make up
• 7:00 am: Begin the hike to waterfalls
• 7:30 am: First Look
• 10:00 am: Private Horse Back ride and brunch picnic by the Nooksack River
• 1:00 pm: Back to cabin to freshen up + write vows
• 2:30 pm: Start hiking
• 4:00 pm: Arrive at top of trail – break for snacks, water, getting into wedding attire again.
• 4:30 am: Private ceremony + Vow exchange
• 5:00pm: Sunset portraits and create memory box for an anniversary
• 6:30 pm: Return to the trailhead, greeted by friends and family.
• 7:00 pm: Celebrate by a fire back at the Airbnb over a chef prepared dinner
• 8:30pm: Farewells

Sunset & Stars Elopement Timeline at Mt Ranier 

• 12:00 pm: Arrival and preparation at Airbnb
• 1:00 pm: Lunch and relaxation
• 2:30 pm: Start getting ready (hair, makeup, attire)
• 4:00 pm: Leave for trailhead
• 4:30 pm: Begin hiking up
• 6:00 pm: Arrive at the top, explore area
• 7:00 pm: Sunset vow ceremony
• 7:30 pm: Golden hour photos
• 8:00 pm: Picnic dinner at the summit
• 9:00 pm: Start hike back down under the stars
• 10:30 pm: Milky way photo by lake on the drive back to the Airbnb
• 11:00 pm: Celebrate with cake and champagne

FAQ for Eloping in Washington

How do I follow LNT in Washington?

• It is incredibly important when exploring or eloping in Washington to stay on the trail and out of the fragile alpine meadows. The meadows are home to many little critters and fragile alpine flowers.
• We also strongly urge you to pack out everything – your trash and human waste.
• If you are dreaming of those champagne spray photos, be sure you are doing it somewhere away from where wildlife might reside like bears or mountain goats.

What do I need to know about traveling to Washington?

To get to Washington, you may likely be flying into SEA TAC. Alaska Air does have a hub at this airport, so it may be the cheapest airline to fly, depending on where you are coming from. You will need to rent car most likely, to get to your elopement location.

Outside of traveling by car, once you get to Washington state, you may also consider traveling via Ferry Boat or Seaplane, depending on where you are heading. Traveling via ferry is a common form of travel for the islands or peninsulas. You can learn more and book a reservation here.

What should I pack for my elopement in Washington?

This is such a great question as you may need some things you would not think of!

• Bug spray
• Sunscreen
• Headlamp
• Rain jacket
• Hiking boots
• Clear umbrellas (If you are eloping with us, we have them for you!)
• Downloaded maps (You may be without service.)
• National Park Pass
• Layers (Jacket, leggings, thermals, hat, gloves)
• Anything you need for your specific adventure
• Anything you need is specific to your wedding day
• Passport in the event you are also going to Canada

Where should I stay for my elopement in Washington?

Washington is filled with super cute cabins and other Airbnb/VRBOS. There are hotels in cities and towns like Leavenworth. However, we recommend an Airbnb with a hot tub for a romantic, private experience. Be sure to check that your stay has air conditioning if you are coming in the Summer, as a lot of places in the Pacific Northwest do not have it.

Can I bring my dog to my elopement in Washington?

Yes – you can bring your pet along to your elopement in Washington! However, not all of the elopement locations in Washington are pet-friendly. The most dog-friendly regions are the Mt Baker National Forest area and Gifford Pinchot National Forest area. Some of our favorite trails to hike with our own dog in Washington that would be great for an elopement are Winchester Mountain, Mt Townsend and McClausland.

Can I bring guests to my elopement in Washington?

Yes – you can bring guests to your elopement in Washington as long as your guest count does not exceed permit regulations or your ability to follow Leave No Trace in the area. We recommend that couples not exceed 12 people in total without a venue location.

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Let’s start planning your Washington Elopement now…