Best Places to Elope in Washington

We have it all in our little corner of the PNW; from stunning mountain peaks, rugged coastlines, serene rivers, majestic alpine lakes, and old-growth forests, you can’t go wrong here. Of course with so many landscapes to choose from it can be difficult to pick the perfect spot for you. This is why I’ve compiled a list of the best places to elope in Washington.

Let’s kick this list off with some of the best national parks to elope in Washington:

North Cascades National Park

North Cascades National Park is an adventurer’s paradise. With over 400 miles of hiking trails, stunning mountain views, 500 pristine high-altitude alpine lakes, and glaciers for miles. The park has been nicknamed, “The North American Alps”, which easily makes it one of the best places to elope in Washington. If you’re dreaming of a hiking adventure elopement, this is the place for you. With never-ending hiking trails and endless options for different activities, there is something for everyone here!

North Cascades National Park is located 2 hours from Seattle. You’ll need to obtain a wedding permit to legally marry in the park. Sound like your ideal elopement destination? Be sure to check out my detailed guide How to Elope in the North Cascades.

Artist Point

One of the best spots to elope in the North Cascades is Artist Point. Artist Point offers a fantastic view of both Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan. In fact, you’ll find some of the best panoramic views in the entire state of Washington here. All, with minimal hiking required. Due note, Artist Point caters to all kinds of adventurers, making it a popular spot for elopements. To avoid the crowds, opt for a weekday elopement.

Olympic National Park

The wildest and most remote elopement location in all of Washington lies in the NW corner of the state. Located on the Olympic Peninsula, about 2-4 hours away from Seattle, is the Olympic National Park. Where the temperate rainforest meets the rugged coastline, and stunning mountain ranges, are reflected in the pristine alpine lakes, below. Olympic National Park has it all, making it one of the best places to elope in Washington.

Best Places to Elope in Washington’s Olympic National Park

Hurricane Ridge

Looking for the most easily accessibleable mountain area within ONP? Look no further then Hurricane Ridge. Hurricane Ridge is one of the most popular locations to elope in ONP for two reasons. On one hand, it’s pretty easy to get there. On the other hand, it offers some of the most stunning mountain views around.

Hoh Rainforest

The Hoh Rainforest is a mystical, tranquil, oasis of lush greenery. The old-growth rainforest is made up of coniferous trees, lush hanging moss, and leafy ferns, that decorate the forest floor. This majestic location is relatively accessible, and yet one of the most serene and remote landscapes in the ONP. If you’re dreaming of a magical forest vibe on your elopement day, the Hoh Rainforest is the place to be.

Diablo Lake

Diablo Lake is one of ONP’s locations that can feel other-worldly. The pristine, turquoise waters are only accessible by hiking a 3.5-mile trail. Even though it is not an overly challenging hike, there is another option for those unable to make the trek. The Diablo Lake overlook offers stunning views of ,the landscape and it is easily accessible from the North Cascades highway. If the 7-mile round trip hike is your kind of adventure, you must consider eloping here. Not only will you be rewarded with incredible views, but chances are, you’ll have the lake to yourselves.

Ruby Beach

Ruby Beach is perfect for couples who want to get married in a more desolate location surrounded by nature. Epic rock formations and pieces of driftwood cover the soft sandy beach located in the middle of the Olympic Peninsula. Ruby Beach offers an incredible backdrop for elopements and intimate weddings. You can’t go wrong with the sunsets here, which are always pretty magical to witness.

Lake Cushman

Lake Cushman requires very little walking for some incredible views. The jagged, mountain peaks, that surround the crystal clear blue lake, provide an epic backdrop and endless opportunities for adventure. If paddleboarding, fishing, boating, or hiking are on your elopement must-do list, consider a Lake Cushman elopement! If a fall elopement is more your thing, Lake Cushman offers a pretty unique landscape come autumn. The lake beds dry up and leave behind these insanely large tree stumps.

Does the ONP check all your dream elopement destination boxes? If so, check out my Guide to Planning an Olympic National Park Elopement! I cover everything you need to know to plan the ONP elopement of your dreams.

Mount Rainier National Park

The incredibly iconic, and absolutely jaw-dropping Mount Rainier is hands down one of the best places to elope in Washington. With a summit soaring high above the clouds stunning views of nearby glaciers, alpine lakes, and waterfalls. Mount Rainier is the reason for Washington’s adventurous spirit.

MT BAKER-SNOQUALMIE NATIONAL FOREST

Are you seeking an elopement location with jaw-dropping views, like dramatic waterfalls, alpine lakes, endless hiking trails, and mountains galore? Then Mt Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest is the place for you. This elopement location is close to Seattle, while still offering stunning views. Making it one the of best places to elope in Washington. The possibilities here are truly endless. For example, you could have an intimate ceremony at Rattlesnake Lake, followed by a post-elopement reception in the city. It’s the best of both worlds!

The national forest is fan favorite for a number of reasons, as mentioned above. However, one of the absolute best parts about eloping here, is that you can bring your fur-family! Just make sure to follow the National Forest guideless, and always, practice LNT principles.

Franklin Falls

This majestic elopement spot is a quick 1-hour drive from Seattle. Then, a short 2 mile hike to a epic 70ft waterfall. Franklin Falls is a great option if you have elderly guests attending your elopement. It’s an easy hike, with a spectacular view at the end. If you plan to elope in the Winter, the Franklin Falls does change slightly, and is a longer hike. For that reason, I suggest checking the Franklin Falls weather conditions, prior to your day.

Rattle Snake Lake & Rattle Snake Ridge

I love a Rattle Snake Lake elopement! This location is offers stunning views of Rattle Snake Ridge, and those quintinessentail PNW mountain vibes.

Rattle Snake Lake is a solid choice for micro weddings or elopements because of it’s accessiblity. Within a few steps of the parking lot is the lake. Which happens to be a perfect spot for an intimate lakeside ceremony.

Want more lakeside inspiration? Check out all the details from Emily and Ariel’s intimate elopment at Rattle Snake Lake!

Cle Elum

This hidden gem is nestled in the heart of the cascades. The surrounding mountains, secluded forest light, and tranquil lakeside sunsets and sunrises make this spot an ideal elopement location.

Honorable Mention – Tree House Point

If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, you must check out: Tree House Point. This magical fairy-tale-like venue is tucked away in a four-acres magical forest. The tranquil tree house is located a short 30 minutes east of Seattle. It Is an ideal venue for elopement adventures and mico-wedding alike. If this lush, green wonderland sounds like your dream come true, take a peek at Tree House Point’s website 

Thank you for taking the time to read through this essentive list of Washington elopement locations. I hope it helps you narrow down the kind of scenery you want for your big day! Are you ready for the next step in your planning journey? Check out My How To Elope in Washington State Guide! It’s a detailed step-by-step guide on how to elope in Washington state.

Do any of these elopemetn locations speak to you and your wedding day visions? Let me know in the comments below!