So, you’re ditching the traditional wedding scene and heading straight for the misty forests, rugged coastline, and towering mountains of Olympic National Park for your elopement? Hell. Yes.

This isn’t just about getting married—it’s about creating an experience. One that feels intimate, intentional, and 100% true to you. Whether you’re saying your vows on a driftwood-covered beach at sunset or in the middle of an ancient rainforest with nothing but ferns and soft moss beneath your feet, this is your day, your way.

But first, you need a plan. Lucky for you, I know Olympic National Park like the back of my camera (which, let’s be real, I’m staring at most of the time). Here’s everything you need to know to make your PNW elopement stress-free and unforgettable.

Step 1: Get Legally Married in Washington

Nothing kills elopement vibes faster than realizing you don’t have the right paperwork.

Apply for a Washington Marriage License

• You can apply in any county, but you must return the signed license to the same county where you got it.
• The fee ranges from $60-$100, depending on the county.
• Both partners must be present when applying and bring valid photo ID.
• There’s a three-day waiting period before you can legally get married.

Find an Officiant

• Washington does not allow self-solemnization, so you’ll need an officiant.
• A friend or family member can officiate if they get ordained online.
• Need an officiant? I got you. I’m ordained and can legally marry you—so if you’re down for a simple ceremony while I document your vows, I can handle both. Just bring two witnesses (or we can find friendly hikers to help sign!).

Get Two Witnesses

• Your photographer (hi, that’s me) can be one (though please note I cannot officiate AND witness – it’s one or the other)
• If it’s just the two of you, we can ask a fellow adventurer or a park ranger. It happens all the time!

Step 2: Choose Your Olympic National Park Elopement Location

Olympic National Park is massive, covering rainforests, mountains, and beaches all in one place. Here are some of the best spots to say your vows:

Rainforest Elopements

• Hoh Rainforest – Dripping moss, giant ferns, and pure magic. A true fairytale setting.
• Quinault Rainforest – A little less crowded, equally as stunning. Great for waterfalls, too.

Mountain Views

• Hurricane Ridge – If you want epic mountain scenery without a hardcore hike, this is it.
• Lake Crescent – Crystal-clear water surrounded by forested peaks? Yes, please.

Rugged Coastline

• Ruby Beach – The most iconic spot with sea stacks, tide pools, and moody PNW vibes.
• Kalaloch (Tree of Life) – A gnarled tree suspended over a sandy bluff—the visible root system and branches look very much like the tree of life symbol.
• Cape Flattery – The northwesternmost point of the U.S. with jaw-dropping cliffs and ocean views.

Step 3: Get the Right Permits

Olympic National Park requires a Special Use Permit for any wedding or elopement ceremony inside the park. Here’s what you need to know:

• Cost: $50–$100, depending on the location.
• Where to Apply: Through the Olympic National Park Special Use Permit office.
• Processing Time: Apply at least 4 weeks in advance to be safe.
• Photography Permit: If you hire a professional photographer (hi, that’s me!), they’ll also need a separate permit.

Pro Tip: Don’t sit on securing your permits — take care of that ish asap!

Step 4: Plan Your Elopement Timeline

Whether you want a sunrise first look in the rainforest or a sunset vow exchange on the beach, having a loose timeline helps everything flow smoothly. Here are a few ideas:

1-Day Olympic National Park Elopement Timeline

8:00 AM – Wake up slow, sip coffee, soak it in.
9:00 AM – Breakfast together at your cabin or a cute coastal café.
11:00 AM – Getting ready photos (separately or together).
1:00 PM – First look in the rainforest.
2:00 PM – Adventure session (explore, hike, take photos).
5:00 PM – Ceremony at Ruby Beach during golden hour.
6:30 PM – Champagne toast + cake on the beach.
7:30 PM – Post-elopement dinner at a cozy lodge or private chef experience.

Step 5: What to Pack for an Olympic National Park Elopement

PNW weather is wildly unpredictable, so you’ll want to pack smart.

• Warm Layers – Even in summer, it can be chilly.
• Waterproof Boots – Essential for rainforest trails and beach walks.
• Clear Umbrella – Looks rad in photos and keeps you dry.
• Headlamp or Lantern – If you’re staying out after sunset.
• Bug Spray – Trust me on this one

Wanna more in-depth look at what to pack for your Olympic National Park elopement? I gotchu.

Step 6: Book Your Photographer (That’s Me!)

Look, you don’t want someone who’s just going to pose you awkwardly in front of a tree. You want someone who gets it. Someone who will document the day as it happens—the way it actually felt.

Here’s how I make sure your Olympic National Park elopement is documented in a way that feels true to you:

Documentary-style photography – No stiff poses, no cheesy shit. Just real moments.
Scouting & planning help – I’ll help you choose the best locations, times, and logistics.
Film + digital photography – For a mix of nostalgic, timeless, and crisp modern images.
Adventure-ready – Whether we’re hiking in the rainforest or running into the ocean, I’m down.

Ready to Plan Your Olympic National Park Elopement?

If your dream wedding day includes zero stress, zero expectations, and 100% magic, I’d love to help bring it to life.

Eloping in Olympic National Park is an experience like no other. From misty forests to golden beaches, this place is pure magic. And if you want an elopement photographer who will document every wild, joyful, emotional moment—without making you “perform” for the camera—I’m your person.

Let’s make this happen. Get in touch, and let’s start planning.