Want to elope in Olympic National Park but not sure where to start?
You're in the right place!
Getting married here is a nature lover's dream come true, but this is probably your first time planning an elopement! You need an easy-to-follow guide that tells you how to plan an Olympic National Park elopement: and that's exactly what this is!
So if you love adventure and want to get married in
Olympic National Park, let's get started!
Getting married here is a nature lover's dream come true, but this is probably your first time planning an elopement! You need an easy-to-follow guide that tells you how to elope in Olympic National Park, and that's exactly what this is!
So if you love nature and want to get married in Olympic National Park, let's get started!
WHAT'S IN THIS GUIDE:
Tap to jump!
1. LOCATION
2. TIME OF YEAR
3. VENDORS
4. PERMITS
5. WHERE TO STAY & What to do
Hi, we're Sammie & Micah!
Your Olympic Elopement Photographers + Planners
Growing up exploring the Pacific Northwest, Olympic holds such a special place in our hearts. We've been to 25+ countries but there's just something so special about Olympic National Park!
We’ve been photographing elopements around the world for years, and it all started when we eloped ourselves! We're passionate about creating a meaningful wedding experience for you while we capture artistic photos that document your connection.
Honestly, we're so excited for your elopement and we haven't even met (YET!)
We’re also more than just your photographers: we’re your elopement planners and biggest support system! We’ll guide you through all the planning to make it as stress-free as possible.
Helping couples plan their dream elopement, all while being present in the moment and capturing beautiful photos – that’s what we do.
Growing up exploring the Pacific Northwest, Olympic holds such a special place in our hearts! We've been to 25+ countries but there's just something so special about Olympic National Park!
We’ve been photographing elopements around the world for years and it all started when we eloped ourselves! We're passionate about creating a meaningful wedding experience for you while we capture artistic photos that document your connection.
We’re also more than just your photographers: we’re your elopement planners and biggest support system! We’ll guide you through all the planning to make it as stress-free as possible.
Helping couples plan their dream elopement, all while being present in the moment and capturing beautiful photos – that’s what we do.
Honestly, we're so excited for your elopement and we haven't even met each other (YET!)
Book a free planning consultation!
Book a free planning Call!
What's In This Guide:
Click to jump!
Step 1. Location
Step 2. Time of Year
Step 3. Vendors
Step 4. Permits
Step 5. Where To Stay & What to do
Why Elope?
To put it simply, if you feel like a big wedding just isn't your vibe, and you want a wedding experience that actually feels like YOU, something intentional, intimate, and adventurous:
Eloping is perfect for you
1. Olympic National Park Wedding Locations
Olympic National Park covers 1,441 square miles and has the most diverse nature in the US, with mountains, forests, waterfalls, alpine lakes, moody beaches, and the largest rainforests in the mainland US!
Olympic has a lot to offer, but these are the 5 spots that take our breath away every time:
1. Ruby Beach
With massive sea stacks, driftwood, and tree-covered cliffs, Ruby Beach is the crown jewel of the Washington coast. The rock formations make an incredible background, and the moody Washington weather creates the perfect vibe for elopement photos.
Since it's so beautiful and easy to access, Ruby Beach is super popular and can get pretty crowded. Our advice? Avoid the crowds by having a weekday elopement in the Spring or Fall. We can help you plan around the crowds!
There's room here for an Olympic wedding ceremony with guests, but since it's so popular, you'll want to walk far from the entrance or maybe choose another beach.
Check out this Olympic National Park elopement exploring Ruby Beach
HIGHLIGHTS:
The most iconic beach in Olympic National Park and the perfect example of the rugged Washington coast sea stacks.
Easy to access, you can drive up to the parking lot and then it's only a .2 mile walk down a dirt trail to get to the beach.
Lots of space to explore, you can run around, have a picnic, climb the driftwood, splash in the waves, etc!
It's extremely beautiful whether it's moody clouds or you get a golden sunset.
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2. Hoh Rainforest
Moss-covered trees, lush green ferns, and a sense of wonder make Hoh Rainforest feel like another world. It's the largest rainforest in the mainland USA, and the dense greenery is so bright and beautiful! The most popular trail in the area is the famous "Hall of Mosses" trail.
This spot feels like stepping into another world with its towering trees and soft green light. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when the light filters through the trees beautifully.
This area is very popular, there's often a line to enter the parking lot at peak times. It's best for exploring and taking photos, but you can have an intimate ceremony here. Since it's so popular, we recommend a morning ceremony on one of the less popular (but still beautiful) trails.
Checkout this real Olympic National Park elopement exploring Hoh Rainforest
HIGHLIGHTS:
The Hall of Mosses trail is great for taking gorgeous rainforest elopement photos.
Easy access with well-maintained trails that most people can handle without trouble.
Creates a fairy-tale setting for your Olympic National Park wedding: filtered green light and moss covering everything in sight.
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3. Hurricane Ridge
Known for its sweeping mountain views, Hurricane Ridge is a stunning sight and the perfect place for your elopement ceremony.
It's hard to believe that just a short drive from the ocean, you can be surrounded by snow-capped mountains! You can enjoy the views with just a short walk from the parking area, or explore multiple hikes if you want to see more.
This is one of the best locations in the park for Olympic wedding ceremonies with guests since there's plenty of room and easy access. Want some help planning your elopement? We'll show you the best spot for ceremonies, and the best spots for just you two!
Check out this real Olympic National Park wedding at Hurricane Ridge!
HIGHLIGHTS:
Amazing views of the Olympic Mountains.
Great for all fitness levels since you don't have to hike to get amazing views, but many awesome hikes are available!
Perfect for elopements with guests, since it's easy to access, has plenty of space, and areas that are private.
Best time to elope is Summer when it's fully accessible.
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PRO-TIP:
Don't limit your elopement to just one location.
Olympic has everything: beaches, waterfalls, mountains, and rainforest. Give yourselves the time to explore it all!
PRO-TIP:
Don't limit your elopement to just one location.
Olympic has everything: beaches, waterfalls, mountains, and rainforest. Give yourselves the time to explore it all!
Let's Plan your Elopement!
4. Madison Falls
Tucked away in the forests of Olympic, you'll find a peaceful little opening that holds the beautiful Madison Falls.
The waterfall makes a gorgeous backdrop for photos and it's the perfect spot to enjoy nature up close. (Marymere Falls is another great waterfall, but you can't get very close to the falls.)
There's limited space here, so you'll want to explore this without your guests or keep your ceremony very small. Morning or afternoon gives you the best chance for privacy.
Here's a real Olympic National Park elopement exploring Madison Falls
HIGHLIGHTS:
A hidden gem that feels private and secluded from other park visitors.
Easy hike that's only 0.6 miles round trip on a flat, well-maintained trail.
Beautiful waterfall backdrop that's perfect for gorgeous waterfall photos.
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5. Lake Crescent
Lake Crescent is a stunning sight with mountains covered in evergreen trees surrounding it on all sides. You can enjoy the combination of pristine water and beautiful glacier-carved hills while you walk along the dock, the perfect place to slow down and soak in the view.
This is another good option for elopements with lots of guests. You can have a fairly private ceremony on the shore in the morning or late afternoon.
Kayaking on the lake together is the perfect adventurous activity for an elopement!
HIGHLIGHTS:
A crystal-clear lake with tree-covered mountains on all sides.
Beautiful wooden dock that extends over the water, perfect for photos.
Good option for larger wedding parties with plenty of space and easy access.
The historic Lake Crescent Lodge is an option for dining or lodging.
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Olympic National Park Elopement Location Map
The first 5 locations above are our favorites, but they're just the start! With a park as big as Olympic there are dozens of amazing elopement locations to choose from.
(P.S.) Notice something about this map? A lot of these locations are pretty far apart! That's why having a two-day elopement is perfect to explore everything Olympic has to offer.
The first 5 locations are some of our favorites, but they're just the start! With a park as big as Olympic there are dozens of amazing elopement locations to choose from.
Planning tip for your Olympic National Park wedding: Weather on the Olympic Peninsula changes depending on where you are: it's often sunny in the mountains and cloudy on the beach, or the other way around!
(P.S.) Notice something about this map? A lot of these locations are pretty far apart! That's why having a two-day elopement is perfect to explore everything Olympic has to offer.
Mountain Locations:
• Hurricane Ridge
• Hurricane Hill
• Klahane Ridge Trail
• Blue Mountain
• Mount Storm King
• Lake Angeles
Beach Locations:
• Ruby Beach
• Rialto Beach
• Hole-in-The-Wall
• Second Beach
• Tree of Life
• Shi-Shi Beach
• First Beach
Forest Locations:
• Hall of Mosses
• Spruce Nature Trail
• Hoh River Trailhead
• Quinault Rainforest
• Hoh Rainforest
• Sol Duc Falls Trail
• Sam's River Loop Trail
• Moments In Time Trail
Waterfall Locations:
• Madison Creek Falls
• Marymere Falls
• Sol Duc Falls
Lake Locations:
• Lake Crescent
• Lake Quinault
• Lake Angeles
Overwhelmed by all the options?
We make it simple by providing a custom list of location recommendations after booking – just for you!
Let's Start Planning!
Overwhelmed by all the options?
We make it easy by providing a custom list of location recommendations.
just for you!
Let's Start Planning!
2. Best Time of Year for Eloping in Olympic National Park
2. Best Time of Year to Elope in Olympic National Park
Best Time of Year for Olympic National Park Elopements:
Best Time of Year for Olympic National Park Elopements:
Late Spring through early Fall is our top recommendation for Olympic Elopements: You'll get great weather (50-75°F), barely any rain, waterfalls are still flowing, and you have full access to mountain locations like Hurricane Ridge. It's also the busiest time, so choose early June or early October to avoid the peak season crowds.
Honestly though: every season in Olympic National Park is amazing! Here's an in-depth look at each one:
Summer
Summer in Olympic is warm, sunny, and hands down the best time to explore the mountains. Temps from 50–75°F, barely any rain, and the beautiful mountain spots like Hurricane Ridge are fully open.
It’s also the busiest season, so elope on a weekday and work with photographers who know the park well, it makes a big difference.
Checkout a real Summer Olympic National Park Elopement!
Fall
Fall in Olympic is an underrated gem. The mountains are still open, temps stay mild (45–60°F), and the crowds start to thin out, making it a peaceful time to explore.
Waterfalls get lower this time of year and the greenery isn't as lush, but it's still beautiful and there are some pockets of fall colors.
Spring
Another great option: Spring in Olympic is lush and full of that moody PNW magic. Temps are cool (45–60°F), with a mix of sunshine and rain. Waterfalls are at their peak, and everything feels fresh and alive.
Mountain areas aren't fully open, but the crowds are lower than summer. This is a really great time for an Olympic National Park elopement if you aren't planning to visit the mountains.
Winter
Winter in Olympic is a true PNW adventure: moody skies, quiet trails, and a lot of rain. It’s cold (30–50°F), but very peaceful.
Hurricane Ridge is open on weekends. If you love fog, rain, and getting cozy in cold weather, winter could be right for you. (Pro tip: fleece-lined leggings and a white shawl keep you warm!)
3. Olympic National Park Elopement Vendors
Our biggest tip when choosing vendors?
Invest in What's Important to You.
Elopements don't have as many vendors as big weddings, so since you'll only be hiring a few people, that means they're super important to making sure your elopement experience is everything you want it to be!
These are some of the most common elopement vendors, and our recommendations near Olympic National Park!
Florists
Hair & Makeup Artists
You can hire an officiant, but if you're having guests, we recommend having a friend or family member do it! It's always so special and there's lots of online tools that make it easy to do.
Choosing Your Olympic Elopement Photographers
We think you deserve elopement photos that are more than just beautiful: they're authentically YOU.
Imagine looking at your photos 10 years from now and being transported back to every laugh on the trail, every tear during your vows, and every intimate moment in between. Remembering exactly how it felt to be so wildly, completely in love.
It's simple: We know that the best photos happen when you feel comfortable and you’re totally enjoying yourself.
The best part? We’re more than just your photographers: we’re your Olympic elopement planners!
Here's What to Expect:
Here's What to Expect:
We'll guide you through all the planning to make it as stress-free as possible! That includes:
• Choosing your perfect location
• Building your custom timeline
• Helping you get permits
• Vendor recommendations
We'll be with you every step of the way and treat your wedding with the care and attention it deserves.
Ready to make your dream elopement a reality?
Let's plan your elopement!
Let's plan your elopement!
"Sammie and Micah helped us every step of the way."
"Our Olympic National Park wedding would not have been what it was without them. What separates Sammie and Micah from your typical photographers is the bond we developed along the way. It was a blessing that we found them. And WOW, the photos were just unbelievable.”
- Amanda & Dan
"Sammie and Micah helped us every step of the way."
"Our Olympic National Park wedding would not have been what it was without them. What separates Sammie and Micah from your typical photographers, is the bond we developed along the way. It was a blessing that we found them. And WOW, the photos were just unbelievable.”
- Amanda & Dan
4. Olympic National Park
Wedding Permit & Marriage License
How to Get Your Olympic National Park Special Use Permit:
To elope in Olympic National Park legally you’ll need a Special Use Permit. (aka. Wedding Permit)
The Olympic National Park Special Use Permit only costs $50, here's the step-by-step permit process:
Step 1. Go to the permits page on the NPS Website and scroll to “Special Use Permits" then click “Special Use Permit application” to download it.
Step 2. Fill in all the areas of the permit necessary for a wedding.
Step 3. To submit your permit and pay online, email the park with your filled-out permit and request to pay by credit card.
Step 4. Pay for your permit and then receive the final approved copy!
Note: Make sure you start the process as soon as you possible to allow the park to process the permit. We recommend doing it at least 3-6 months out from your elopement, but much earlier is even better. The park staff get's busy and we've seen the park take a long time to respond to our couples, so it's much better to do it early.
Great news: (If you're eloping with 5 total people or less (including vendors) you actually don't even need a permit! Otherwise though, you'll need one:
Olympic National Park Entry Fee:
The entrance fee for Olympic National Park costs $30 for a 7-day car pass, or $55 for an annual pass. You can also enter the park using the "America the Beautiful" National Parks Pass.
Legal Requirements: Get Your Washington Marriage License for Your Olympic National Park Elopement:
To legally get married in Olympic you'll need a Washington marriage license, the average cost is $65, there's a 3-day waiting period, and you need to get married within 60 days of getting it. Here's the step-by-step process of how to get your marriage license:
Step 1: Choose Your Method
– Mail-in Option: Some counties (like Pierce County) let you complete the entire process by mail using a notary, super convenient!
– In-Person: Visit any County Auditor's office in Washington
Step 2: Pick Up Your License (Only if doing In-Person option)
– For Olympic: Clallam County Auditor is closest, or Pierce County Auditor
– Both parties must appear in person with valid photo IDs
– Cost: $65 average
Step 3: Timing
– Wait 3 full days after getting your license to get married
– You have 60 days after obtaining your license to get married before it expires.
Step 4: On Your Elopement Day
– Bring physical license to ceremony
– You, your partner, officiant, and two witnesses age 14+ must sign (We're happy to be your witnesses if it's just you two!)
Step 5: After Your Ceremony
– Officiant files the completed license within 30 days
– Must file with the same county where you got the license
Legal stuff can be overwhelming.
Our help makes it easy:
book a free planning consultation!
4. Olympic National Park
Wedding Permit & Marriage License
How to Get Your Olympic National Park Special Use Permit:
To elope in Olympic National Park legally you’ll need a Special Use Permit. (aka. Wedding Permit)
The Olympic National Park Special Use Permit only costs $50, here's the step-by-step permit process:
Step 1. Go to the permits page on the NPS Website and scroll to “Special Use Permits" then click “Special Use Permit application” to download it.
Step 2. Fill in all the areas of the permit necessary for a wedding.
Step 3. To submit your permit and pay online, email the park with your filled-out permit and request to pay by credit card.
Step 4. Pay for your permit and then receive the final approved copy!
Note: Make sure you start the process as soon as you possible to allow the park to process the permit. We recommend doing it at least 3-6 months out from your elopement, but much earlier is even better. The park staff get's busy and we've seen the park take a long time to respond to our couples, so it's much better to do it early.
Great news: (If you're eloping with 5 total people or less (including vendors) you actually don't even need a permit! Otherwise though, you'll need one:
Olympic National Park Entry Fee:
The entrance fee for Olympic National Park costs $30 for a 7-day car pass, or $55 for an annual pass. You can also enter the park using the "America the Beautiful" National Parks Pass.
Legal Requirements: Get Your Washington Marriage License for Your Olympic National Park Elopement:
To legally get married in Olympic you'll need a Washington marriage license, the average cost is $65, there's a 3-day waiting period, and you need to get married within 60 days of getting it. Here's the step-by-step process of how to get your marriage license:
Step 1: Choose Your Method
– Mail-in Option: Some counties (like Pierce County) let you complete the entire process by mail using a notary, super convenient!
– In-Person: Visit any County Auditor's office in Washington
Step 2: Pick Up Your License (Only if doing In-Person option)
– For Olympic: Clallam County Auditor is closest, or Pierce County Auditor
– Both parties must appear in person with valid photo IDs
– Cost: $65 average
Step 3: Timing
– Wait 3 full days after getting your license to get married
– You have 60 days after obtaining your license to get married before it expires.
Step 4: On Your Elopement Day
– Bring physical license to ceremony
– You, your partner, officiant, and two witnesses age 14+ must sign (We're happy to be your witnesses if it's just you two!)
Step 5: After Your Ceremony
– Officiant files the completed license within 30 days
– Must file with the same county where you got the license
Legal stuff can be overwhelming.
Our help makes it easy:
Let's Plan Your elopement!
What is the average cost of an Olympic National Park Elopement?
What is the average cost of an Olympic National Park Elopement?
On average, eloping in Olympic National Park costs $7,000-$20,000 depending on your priorities. Essentials include permits and licenses ($149-$169), photography ($5,000-$15,000+), accommodations ($300-$2,000), and travel costs. Other common costs include hair/makeup ($300-$1,000), florals ($400-$1,500) and officiants ($300-$800). Our couples typically end up investing $10,000-$18,000 for an incredible experience where every dollar creates an incredible experience to celebrate your marriage.
The best part? You can go all out and treat yourself to the most amazing elopement experience possible, fulfilling all of your wildest dreams, and you'll still end up spending less than you would on an average traditional wedding!
5. Where to Stay In
Olympic National Park
Airbnbs
Our top recommendation! Vacation rentals offer the best aesthetics and maximum privacy for your Olympic National Park elopement.
LAKE and CEDAR — Luxury Escape on the Lake
Luxurious and modern lakefront house with a Scandinavian-influenced interior and a private dock.
Sol Duc Serenity – Riverfront + Hot Tub + Nat’l Park
Charming little riverfront house in the forest with a hot tub and moss-covered trees out the window.
Blue Haven – Iconic Lakefront 4 Season Retreat
Woodsy but modern lakefront cabin with a private dock and A-frame loft bedroom.
Reflection Haven: Lakeside, Hot Tub, By Park Entry
Large lakeside house with a cozy but modern interior, 4 bedrooms, lots of space, private dock, and its own kayaks.
Tall Cedars “Tiny”- Private forest, 5min to beach
Small home in the forest with a bright and airy interior and lots of windows.
Good to know: Port Angeles is the only city near the park, located on the northern side. There's also Forks which is a small town on the east side (famous for being a Twilight filming location)
P.S. – (Want to have a mini-reception after your Olympic ceremony? We've compiled our favorite rentals that allow events, and we share this insider list with all our booked couples!)
Hotels
Lodges within the park are nice but much more rustic with less of the modern comforts that you might want for your Olympic National Park wedding, none of them offer Wi-fi and all amenities are basic.
Kalaloch Lodge
Situated along the western edge of the park, overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this rustic lodge is open year-round offering a variety of rooms as well as many individual cabins. There is no Wi-fi at the lodge and it sits directly on the beautiful rugged coastline, so if you’re looking to be extremely unplugged and immersed in nature, this is the place.
Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort
A bit more modern than the other options within the park, though still without internet, this resort offers suites and cabins immersed within the forest as well as access to their hot springs (not hot springs in nature, but man-made pools).
Lake Crescent Lodge
Built over 100 years ago in 1915, this lodge sits on the shore of Lake Crescent offering rooms and cabins with immediate access to the lake and a somewhat central location within the park. There is no Wi-fi, and Jan-April the lodge is only open on weekends.
Log Cabin Resort
Similar to Lake Crescent Lodge with rooms in the main resort as well as individual cabins, many having beautiful views of the lake, all with no internet, and only open part of the year.
What to do in
Olympic National Park
What to do in Olympic National Park
Olympic is known for its insanely diverse landscapes, and hiking is one of the best ways to see it all. From short waterfall walks to wild coastal trails and mountain treks: there's so much to explore for your Olympic National Park wedding!
Kayaking is an incredible way to experience Olympic’s beauty. Picture you and your partner gliding across Lake Crescent, surrounded by clear water, mountain views, and total peace.
Olympic is huge, which makes it perfect for a road trip! Start your day in the mountains, drive through rainforest, and end on the coast at sunset. There’s something magical about being on the road together: windows down, snacks packed, and nowhere to be but right there with each other.
This guide has even more ideas for what to explore!
Ready to start planning?
Let us help!
Book a free planning consultation!
(99% of our couples reach out to us before they feel like they
"have it figured out", because that's what we're here to help with!)
Ready to start planning?
(99% of our couples reach out to us before they feel like they "have it figured out" because that's what we're here to help with!)
Let's Get started!
Let us help!