The Silver Falls State Park Elopement Guide

Eloping at Silver Falls State Park: Everything You Need to Know

Silver Falls State Park is the perfect location for the couple searching for an elopement location with dense forests and tons of waterfalls in the heart of Oregon. Located just 20 miles east of Salem, the park is known for its dense forests, scenic waterfalls, and accessible trails. This blog post will walk through the important details, including prime ceremony locations, potential activities, accommodations, seasonal insights, and answers to commonly asked questions.

About Silver Falls State Park

Location and Accessibility
Silver Falls State Park is located in the town of Sublimity, OR. Most couples pick this location because of its easy access from Salem and Portland. The park’s main entrance includes a large day-use parking area, visitor center, and access to various trails including the South Falls area.

Park Highlights

• Waterfalls and Trails The Trail of Ten Falls is a popular loop, allowing hikers to see multiple waterfalls, including the iconic South Falls.
• Year-Round Recreation Visitors come to hike, bike, horseback ride, or simply explore the old-growth forest.
• Camping and Cabins The campground has tent sites, RV hookups, and rustic cabins that are available throughout the year.

A Bit About The Silver Falls State Park Wedding Featured In This Blog Post

K + M were very intentional when planning out their small and intimate wedding at Silver Falls State Park. They wanting a location that truly encapsulated the “moody Pacific Northwest vibes”. Let me tell you, this location ended up being everything that they had hoped for! M loves ferns, moss and mushrooms – and it just happened that their wedding took place during the peak of mushroom season in the area. I was so excited to take advantage of the nearby Russula and Bolete mushrooms to use as props for flat lay and close up photos. To see a close up photo of her ring beautifully sitting on top of a mushroom, be sure to scroll all the way down to the gallery highlights at the end of this blog post.

Smith Creek Village is the specific location they went with within the State Park. Which worked out perfectly for their small gathering. They were able to have an outdoor ceremony followed by a reception inside of a cozy nearby barn. Most barn venues run into the issue of being cold, but this was one of the coziest barns I’ve had the pleasure of photographing in. A lot of that was thanks to the large wood fire they had going in the center of the venue.

If you’re hoping to invite guests to your wedding, I highly recommend checking out the Smith Creek Village at Silver Falls State Park.

Best Spots to Exchange Vows

• North Falls North Falls includes a 136-foot drop and is an easy 0.3 mile stroll to get up and personal with the waterfall. If you want a beautiful waterfall as your backdrop as you exchange your vows, this is the spot! This can also be a great option if you have a few guests that are attending.
• South Falls Area South Falls stands at 177 feet and is accessible via a short walking trail from the main parking lot. It’s one of the most photographed waterfalls in Oregon. If you choose this location, plan for early morning or weekday visits to avoid peak crowds, it can get very busy here!
• Smith Creek Village The perfect location for if you’re planning on inviting guest to your wedding! This location feels like something from a fairy tale! They have multiple location options for wedding ceremonies and receptions. Some locations even accommodate up to 100 guests.

Nearby Activities and Accommodations

• Hiking & Nature Walks Beyond the waterfalls, Silver Falls State Park has over 35 miles of backcountry trails suitable for both novice and experienced hikers. These trails are open year-round, though weather conditions can affect accessibility.
• Local Lodging & Cabin Rentals The park offers campground options, including cabins and group camps. For those preferring more conventional lodging, cities like Silverton and Salem provide hotels and bed-and-breakfast establishments. Early booking is recommended, most places book out fast!
• Dining Options The town of Silverton and surrounding areas have restaurants, coffee shops, and local breweries. Many visitors stock up on snacks and picnic supplies at these nearby towns before heading into the park.
• The Oregon Garden is also worth mentioning. It’s an 80-acre botanical garden located in Silverton, OR. It features over 20 different gardens and is a must see if you’re in the area!

Best Times of Year For Your Silver Falls State Park Elopement

Spring (March–May)

Pros: Less crowds and the waterfalls often flow at their peak after winter snowmelt. Temperatures are usually mild. Cons: Rain is common, so plan for muddy trails and possible drizzle.

Summer (June–August)

Pros: Warmer weather and longer daylight hours. Cons: Trails can be busy, especially on weekends and holidays. Early reservations for lodging are advisable. By August the waterfalls have less water due to dry weather.

Fall (September–November)

Pros: Fall color. Comfortable temperatures in Sept. and Oct. Cons: Weather can vary day to day, with some rainfall and occasional early cold snaps.

Winter (December–February)

Pros: Fewer crowds, a quieter atmosphere, and the possibility of snowy scenery. Cons: Temperatures can be cold, and some trail sections may be slippery or closed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Do I need a permit to elope at Silver Falls State Park? Depending on group size and location, you may need a permit. Consult the park’s official website or contact the main office for details.
• What is the best time of day for the ceremony? Many people choose early mornings or evenings (in the summer time) to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons.
• How many guests can I invite? Small gatherings generally have fewer restrictions, but larger groups require more coordination. Confirm group size limits with park staff when you apply for any necessary permits.

If you’re looking for a true Pacific Northwest location featuring waterfalls and lush forests, then you should definitely consider looking into Silver Falls State Park! Be sure to plan accordingly depending on your elopement/wedding size. Contact the state park directly to get the most up to date information on permits and availability.