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Your Guide To Eloping In The Columbia River Gorge
I’ve always lived within 45 minutes of the Columbia River Gorge, and I still manage to find new spots to explore within this beautiful area. If you’re wanting to check out some of the waterfalls during your elopement you can make a plan to visit several in one day, there’s over 90 of them total in the gorge! If sweeping views is more of your style, there’s many viewpoints you can hike to for sunrise or sunset.
The other nice thing about the Columbia River Gorge is that it’s close in proximity to Portland, OR (super convenient if you’re flying into PDX) and there’s so many super cute towns with cozy Airbnb’s to stay in nearby.
Where To Elope In The Columbia River Gorge
There are so many different options in The Columbia River Gorge, but first I’d try to ask yourself “what do I want my backdrop to be as I exchange vows with the one I love?”. Maybe that means in front of a waterfall, or up with a view of Mt. Hood or the surrounding hills? Below are a few of my favorite spots that provide a beautiful environment for couples to elope.
Exchange Your Vows In Front of One Of The Many Waterfalls In The Gorge
There truly is an abundance of waterfalls to choose from in the Columbia River Gorge. Typically the further you’re willing to hike, the more secluded and less crowded the waterfall will be. Alternatively, be sure to pick a week day to elope. Here’s a few of my go-to waterfalls with a variety of hiking distances.
- Latourell Falls An iconic and very popular spot (for good reason) for couples to exchange their vows. It’s very easy to get to, where it’s one of the first waterfalls you see as you enter the Columbia River Gorge driving in from Portland, OR. The trail is also a very short and easy 5 minute walk down to the falls.
- Wahclella Falls One of my personal favorite waterfalls in the gorge, I’ve been coming to this waterfall since I was a kid. Trail is an easy (and flat) 1 mile walk to the water fall. This location can also get busy, so plan accordingly.
- Panther Creek A little bit off the beaten path, but it’ll be worth the adventure out there. This waterfall is more secluded than more waterfalls in the gorge and is a quick half mile walk down the falls.
Find A Cozy Airbnb Cabin
If you’re wanting something more low key and private, then finding a cute and cozy Airbnb might be a better fit. Here’s a few wonderful places to stay near The Columbia River Gorge.
- A Frame Cabin in Mt. Hood Village. A beautiful and picture perfect spot for an elopement. Features a wood burning stove and fire pit. You can also hear the sounds of the Sandy River from the rental. Close to both the Gorge as well as Mt. Hood, would be a wonderful base for exploring the surrounding areas.
- Klaus Haus Remodeled cabin in Rhododendron, OR (halfway between Mt. Hood and The Gorge). Features interesting architecture, wide open floor plans, wood burning fire place and is nestled in the forest.
- The Klickitat Tree House A place inspired by mountain lifestyle and Scandinavian architecture.
- Mount Hood Village Cabin Close to both the Columbia River Gorge as well as Mt. Hood. Nestled in the forest just above the banks of the Sandy River. Comfortable and modern.
- Scandinavian Styled Cabin Located in Rhododendron (like most of these other Airbnb’s on this list) this cabin has a wonderful clean mid century modern look. Only 20 minutes from skiing and a 5 minute walk from the Sandy River.
Things To Do Together In The Columbia River Gorge
Trying to plan out specifics or activities you’d like to do during your elopement day can feel overwhelming. The nice thing about the Columbia River Gorge is that there is SO much to see and do right within The Gorge. You could easily fill a whole day, or weekend, of things to do and see.
Visit The Historic Highway
If waterfalls are your jam and it’s your first time visiting the Columbia River Gorge I highly recommend taking a drive along the Historic Highway. This 75 mile stretch of highway features some of the most iconic waterfalls and sights in The Gorge. Including locations such as Multnomah Falls, Latourell Falls, Wahkeena Falls, Vista House at Crown Point, Horsetail Falls and so much more! Just note that these locations are where most other visitors are going, so the trails and viewpoints can be extremely busy. If you’re set on eloping at any of these well known waterfalls I highly recommend eloping in the off season and on a week day morning. Spring is a wonderful time to elope in the gorge, the moss and ferns are at their most vibrant green and the waterfalls are at their peak with rushing water.
Check Out The Nearby Towns
Hood River, OR is usually a go-to for me when I’m spending a day out hiking in the Columbia River Gorge or snowshoeing up on Mt. Hood. There’s some really wonderful restaurants and it has a really nice small town vibe with beautiful water front views. If you’re into breweries make sure you stop by Pfriem and Ferment Brewing, both are located right on the waterfront of the Columbia River in Hood River. If you aren’t into beer, both of these locations are wonderful for food as well. For breakfast, check out Broder Øst for some delicious Scandinavian brunch.
Sandy, OR is a great place to stop on your way up to Mt. Hood. There’s a handful of coffee shops, donut shop and if you enjoy crepes be sure to check out Le Happy Creperie and Bar. If you need to buy or rent outdoor gear for skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing be sure to check out Next Adventure for all your gear needs. They have an easy system online to rent gear for the day (or weekend) in advance. Their rates are also reasonable compared to other spots locally. If you’re wanting to purchase gear you can do that here as well. For example if you forgot to pack a rain jacket and need to pick one up quick.
Relax At The Society Hotel
Only a few minutes from Hood River, OR is The Society Hotel in Bingen, WA. A modern getaway experience with suites, hostels and cabins. My favorite part about The Society Hotel is the beautiful modern architecture and the hotel’s bath house and spa. After spending a day hiking in the gorge, exploring the snowy slopes of Mt. Hood or walking around the town of Hood River it doesn’t get much better than soaking your muscles in their pools. Their spa features a warm saltwater soaking pool, a cold plunge pool, hot tub, massage services and spa cafe. Spa access is open to visitors as well, you don’t need to be staying at their hotel, you can just make an online reservation.
Explore The Area Around Mt. Hood
There’s a reason that Timberline Lodge is such a popular spot in the winter time. Whether you’re both skilled skiers/snowboarders or its something you’ve wanted to try there’s something for all skill levels up at Timberline. While you’re up there be sure to check out the Lodge itself, it’s worth grabbing a hot drink from their restaurant upstairs too – their known for their huge hot cocoas! In the summer time this area is equality as beautiful, there’s many hiking and mountain biking trails right near the lodge.
Best Time To Elope In The Columbia River Gorge
My personal favorite time of year in the Columbia River Gorge is September and October. In September, daytime temperatures are still pretty warm without being too hot (like July + August can be). Mid to late October is typically when the fall color is at it’s peak, which is a beautiful sight. Fall is also less busy than summer months since kids are back in school too.
Spring can also be another time of year to consider. Like fall, this is also a shoulder season where the trails and locations won’t be quite as busy. I’d try to aim for mid to late June if you’re hoping to have a less likely chance of rain (still pack a rain jacket just in case!). If waterfall locations are what you’re after, spring would be a great choice since this is when waterfalls are usually at their peak from rainfall during the winter as well as snow melt from Mt. Hood.
Winter is a great option for those that love snow covered hills and want to venture up to Mt. Hood for some winter sports (snowshoeing, skiing, snowboarding, etc) in addition to visiting the Columbia River Gorge. Do be aware that we get a lot of rain here in the Pacific Northwest, so there will be a likely chance that it could rain on your elopement day. That being said, winter elopements can be very beautiful. It’s also more likely you’ll have more privacy on the local trails and you’ll be able to say your vows without nearby hikers watching.
Rules and Regulations from Elopements in The Columbia River Gorge
Since The Columbia River Gorge is a National Scenic Area, it does have some rules and regulations to help protect this beautiful region. Here’s some of the major thing you should be aware of when planning your intimate wedding day:
- As long as you have less than 75 people in your group, you will not need a Special Use Permit in most areas. The thing is, most places can really only accommodate 10-15 people at most.
- Please practice Leave No Trace in this area. Meaning no confetti, flower petals (unless you plan to pick all of them up), balloons, etc.
- Candles and other open flames are not allowed.
- There are some State Parks within the Columbia River Gorge that do require Special Use Permits to reserve an area within the park. Fees for this permit is typically pretty minimal.
Why Choosing The Right Photographer Matters
There’s so many benefits to investing in your elopement/wedding photographer. While this guide is a good starting point, there are so many additional resources and personalized information I provide to my clients. I’ve spent countless hours exploring the Pacific Northwest and can provide personalized location recommendations based on your vision for your day. Need food or activity recommendations? I’ve got you! Maybe you want to be sure you’re able to bring your dog, or you want a private spot to exchange vows, these are all things to take into consideration and I’ll help you every step of the way!
If you’d like to reach out and chat about your vision for your Columbia River Gorge Elopement, feel free to reach out here!
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