6 Wild Spots That Actually Live Up to the Hype
Let’s be honest, trying to pick the “best” place to elope can feel like falling down a Pinterest rabbit hole. There are so many gorgeous places out there, but not all of them are worth the logistics or the crowds. That’s why I put together this guide to help you cut through the noise and discover some of the best places to elope in the U.S.
These are six of my favorite places in the U.S. for intentional, nature-connected elopements. They’re perfect if you want fewer people, more presence, and scenery that doesn’t just look good, but also feels good to be in. I’ve photographed and hiked in all of these spots (some more times than I can count), and I help my couples plan everything from permits to backup trail options.
Each section includes quick tips, permit info, and a link to a deeper dive if you want to explore more.
Mt. Rainier National Park, WA
If you’re dreaming of alpine lakes, meadows filled with wildflowers, and an actual volcano as your backdrop, Rainier is hard to beat. There’s something grounding about this place. Even when it’s crowded, it still finds a way to feel spacial. It’s especially great for couples who want to hike a bit for those quiet moments away from the main viewpoints.
- Best season: Late July through September (late July – mid. August for wildflowers)
- Permit: Yes, special use permit required for elopements in the park.
- Pro tip: Sunrise and Tolmie Peak are stunning and quieter areas compared to Paradise.
- Heads up: This park is extremely popular. Weekdays and/or early start times are your best bet for privacy.
Columbia River Gorge, OR
Just outside Portland, the Gorge is where dramatic cliffs, moody forests, and waterfalls collide. It’s wild in the best way, and doesn’t take hours of driving to get there. Whether you want a short hike to a tucked-away waterfall or a cliffside view that’ll make your knees a little weak, the Gorge delivers without a ton of effort.
- Best season: May-June for wildflowers and peak waterfall season. But honestly, any time of year is beautiful there.
- Permit: Varies, some trailheads need a timed permit or parking pass. But as long as your group size is small (you two + your photographer + two witnesses for example) then you don’t need a special use permit for most areas.
- Pro tip: Locations such as Rowena Crest and Government Cove are beautiful, but try the Washington side for more privacy and just-as-good views. Seriously!
- Heads up: It can be extremely windy. Like, make-sure-your-hair-is-pinned-down windy. When I photograph elopements in The Gorge, I’ll often check the wind forecast for that week.
The Oregon Coast
If the thought of sea stacks, coastal cliffs, salty air, and moody skies makes you swoon, the Oregon Coast is where it’s at. It’s rugged, dramatic, and a perfect setting for an elopement. You can get married barefoot on a quiet beach, say vows near a craggy cliff, or explore tidepools after your ceremony.
- Best season: September–October (less fog and fewer people). If you’re wanting to get married in the winter, the Oregon Coast might be something to consider as well. The weather here is usually pretty mild and it’s pretty quiet in the “off season”, especially on week days.
- Permit: Some beaches require permits for ceremonies, especially if you’re bringing guests. It completely depending on the location that you plan to get married at. Most of my favorite locations don’t require special use permits though for small ceremonies without props (chairs, archway, etc.)
- Pro tip: Cape Kiwanda and Samuel H. Boardman are stunning, but there are other locations that are nearby and off the radar that are arguably just as beautiful.
- Heads up: Always check tide charts. Some beaches are nearly non-existent during high tide, so I always recommend aiming for low tide.
Olympic National Park, WA
Olympic feels like three parks in one. You’ve got moss-covered rainforest, alpine peaks, and rugged coastline. All within a few hours of each other! It’s a choose-your-own-adventure kind of place, and perfect for couples who want a lot of variety in one central location.
- Best season: July–September (if you want all areas accessible). If you’re just interested in the beaches and/or rainforest May and October are less busy times to visit.
- Permit: Yes! Special use permit required, and some areas close seasonally.
- Pro tip: Do a morning rainforest hike, then head to Rialto Beach for a sunset ceremony. Add in Hurricane Ridge for some alpine magic if you’re up for it.
- Heads up: You probably won’t have cell service, most areas around here don’t. Build in extra time for everything and expect to unplug.
Redwood National & State Parks, CA
Want to feel tiny (in the best way)? Eloping under 300-foot-tall trees will do the trick. The redwoods are peaceful, majestic, and deeply humbling. The light filters in like a soft spotlight, and the hush of the forest adds a sense of reverence that’s hard to describe.
- Best season: May–October (fog is normal, embrace it!). With my favorite months to visit here being May and October, there’s less crowds.
- Permit: Yes, and not all groves allow ceremonies, and some are protected. As of 2025 the special use permit system for the redwoods is more lengthy than most. You’ll also be required to obtain liability insurance, and additional permits if you plan to incorporate more than one area/trailhead into your elopement day. Applying for permits here around 6 months out is encouraged so that you have first pick of ceremony spots.
- Pro tip: Jedediah Smith has some of my favorite locations.
- Heads up: It’s dark under those trees. Midday light usually works best for photos.
Mt. Hood National Forest, OR
Mt. Hood is close to Portland, OR but feels a world away. You’ll find subalpine lakes, meadows, waterfalls, and epic views without the national park crowds. If you want a spot that’s easy to reach but still full of wild beauty, this is a solid choice.
- Best season: Late July–September (depending on snow melt).
- Permit: NW Forest Pass for parking in most areas.
- Pro tip: Trillium Lake is stunning for sunrise reflections. There’s also lots of hidden gems in this area that are off the radar!
- Heads up: Morning light here is chef’s kiss. Early alarms are worth it. But sunsets are equally as stunning!
How to Choose the Right Spot to Elope in the U.S.
All six of these places are beautiful, but that doesn’t mean they’re all the right fit for you.
Choosing where to elope in the U.S. isn’t just about what looks good in photos (though that matters too). It’s about finding a place that reflects your pace, your energy, and the kind of experience you want to have when you say your vows.
Here are a few questions I walk through with my couples to help narrow it down:
- What kind of landscape do you feel most connected to? Forests that feel quiet and private, alpine lakes and open skies?
- How much travel or hiking do you want to do? Are you up for a pre-dawn hike to a mountain overlook? Or would you rather drive up to a viewpoint and take your time soaking it in?
- How important is privacy to you? If solitude matters, we’ll aim for weekday dates, sunrise timing, or off-season options.
- What kind of weather feels like home to you? Mist and mood? Look at the coast or the redwoods. Crisp alpine sun? Mt. Rainier or Mt. Hood in late summer.
And if you’re still not sure? That’s totally normal. This is where I come in. I help couples find spots that feel aligned, not just beautiful on paper. Whether you have a vibe in mind or feel completely overwhelmed by all the beautiful spots to elope in the U.S., we’ll sort through it together and land somewhere that feels just right.
Why You Can Trust This Advice
This isn’t a roundup pulled from Google or Pinterest.
I’ve spent most of my life hiking, backpacking, and exploring these exact locations. Not just as a photographer, but as someone who truly lives for time in the wild. From snowshoeing at Rainier to backpacking the full Timberline Trail around Mt. Hood, I’ve been on these trails in every season, every kind of weather, and with all kinds of couples.
I’m Leave No Trace certified, Wilderness First Aid trained, and I know how to navigate permits, weather pivots, and the weird little details most people don’t think about until they’re out there. I also work with couples who want more than just photos. I help with location scouting, personalized timelines, and planning calls.
If you’re looking for advice rooted in real experience, not just what’s trending, I’ve got you!
Let’s Start Planning!
Not Sure Where to Start? Still Aren’t Sure Where Exactly You’d Like to Elope in the U.S.?
That’s totally okay.
I know there are so much stunning locations to elope in the U.S., and you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Whether you’re torn between two spots or need help narrowing it down from scratch, I’m here to help with location guidance, permits, timeline planning, and all the little details you shouldn’t have to stress about.
