You got engaged, and are thinking maybe a big traditional wedding isn’t for you. You’d love to have those Twilight hoa hoa vibes on your big day, or maybe you’re just feeling drawn to the shore. Either way, if you’re considering an Olympic National Park Elopement, then this guide is for you.
The Best Time to Elope in Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park is one of the most diverse areas in the country. There’s beaches, rock formations, a rainforest, waterfalls, lakes and mountains - you name it! Because there are so many different kinds of views to choose from, there’s always something to see, no matter what time of year you choose for your elopement!
Beaches & Coastlines
June through September will give you the best shot at clear weather, if those are the kind of vibes you’re going for. But, if you’re like me and think that a little rain can’t hurt anyone, then you could elope on the Washington coast all year round!
Mountains & overlooks
July through September is your best bet here, giving enough time for the winter snow to melt and make those roads accessible, and avoiding the overcast skies that often fog-in overlooks in the winter and spring.
Lakes & woods
These areas are a solid pick, no matter what time of year. You’ll get golden light filtering through the trees and bouncing off of water in summer, reds and oranges of trees in fall, and misty fog and overcast skies in the spring and winter.
Waterfalls
March through May are the peak times to have a waterfall elopement, since the melting snow and heavy rainfall in these months will make for a roaring waterfall. It’s still totally possible (and fun) to visit waterfalls outside of this window, but be aware they might slow to a trickle near the end of summer, depending on the location and the weather.
Where to Elope in Olympic National Park
Port Angeles & Hurricane Ridge
This is a perfect option for couples wanting a little adventure and a bit of comfort. There’s plenty of lodging, bars and restaurants in Port Angeles, and stunning mountain views at Hurricane Ridge.
Crescent Lake
A truly stunning stop in the northern section of Olympic. There’s tons of hikes, a waterfall, activities on the lake, and even a lodge. If you’re wanting to do a small ceremony with a few guests somewhere in Olympic National Park, the Crescent Lake Lodge could be the perfect venue.
Hoh Rainforest
It really feels like stepping into another world. Miles of woods, moss and winding rivers all create a home for the wildlife that lives there. There’s tons of space to explore.
Washington Coastline
On the north shore outside of Port Angeles, or on the western coastline of Washington, there are miles and miles of rocky beaches within Olympic National Park. It’s always possible to find a private spot, as long as you’re prepared with the tide times and proper gear.
How to Elope in Olympic National Park: Permits
Here’s the great news that not too many people will share: you don’t need a special use permit to get married in Olympic National Park unless your group side is larger than five. If it’s just you two and a photographer, then you’re golden!
If you are having a few guests, or if you will have a few more vendors traveling with you throughout the day, then a permit will be required. But I have more good news for you here! It only has a $50 application fee, and it usually only takes two weeks to get approved! The maximum group size is 50, and for a group that size, I would recommend using one of the concession areas (Lake Crescent Lodge, Sol Duc Resort, or Kalaloch Lodge), and contacting them directly for availability.
You can find more information on Olympic National Park Permits here.
How to Elope in Olympic National Park: Marriage Laws & Paperwork
The nice thing about Washington state is that you can get your marriage license in any county. You don’t need to be a resident of the county (or the state for that matter), and you don’t even need to have your ceremony in that county. You just need to be able to apply for the license and return it after the ceremony.
If you’re traveling to Washington for your Olympic National Park elopement, you’ll likely be flying into Sea-Tac airport. Depending on what time you get in, and what other plans you have, you can either stay in Tacoma and get your paperwork through Pierce County, or drive to Port Angeles and use Clallam County. Either way, you’ll need to adhere to the 3-day waiting period before you can hold the ceremony.
From there, you’ll have your ceremony and get two witnesses to sign your certificate. Then all that’s left is to return the license to the same County you chose, and that’s it! You’ll be official!
Still have questions? You can read my full legal guide to eloping in Washington here.
I'm Allison, your Olympic National Park elopement photographer
If you’re eloping in Olympic National Park and don’t know where to begin, then I’m your gal! More than just your photographer, I’m also your road trip navigator, hiking-gear carrier, officiant and local expert on all things Washington elopements! Elopement photography packages start at $2,000. Let’s do this thing!
Where to Stay in Olympic National Park
There are tons of unique stays around Olympic National Park that would be perfect for your elopement, no matter the size of your party or the season. Here are just a few!
Including Guests in Your Olympic National Park Elopement
There are tons of ways to include your loved ones in your elopement. You can invite a few guests and turn it into an intimate wedding experience, which will limit your location options but you could still find some stunning spaces for your day. Or, if planning that kind of thing is exactly why you decided to elope, you could break up the day (or even do multiple days) and hold a reception. That way you get the best of an elopement with a private ceremony focused on just you and your love, and you also get to celebrate with your friends and family.
If you’re wanting to spend your wedding day just with your partner, there are still a lot of ways to include your loved ones. You could ask your friends and family to write a note or record a video for you to watch during your day. You could wear something that reminds you of home, and the people there. You could Facetime a few people during your celebratory meal. Or, you could focus completely on you during your big day, and share photos with your loved ones after, so they can see just how happy you two are.
Olympic National Park Elopement Timeline Examples
A 12-hour elopement? What would we even do all day?
Oh my friend, the options are endless! Finding the love of your life is a HUGE deal, and you deserve to celebrate your love to the fullest as you confirm your commitment to each other. Here are some Olympic National Park elopement example timelines.
National Park Road Trip
7:00AM First look on the ferry dock at sunrise
7:30AM Ceremony on the ferry to Port Townsend
8:30AM Champagne pop on the Port Townsend dock
9:00AM Stop at Safeway for road snacks
10:00AM Arrive at Hurricane Ridge
10:15AM Picnic with mimosas
11:00AM Portraits and short hike at Hurricane Ridge
12:00PM Head to Hoh Rain Forest, stop for photos along the way
3:00PM Explore Hall of Mosses & exchange gifts
4:30PM Leave for final location
5:30PM Check into Kalaloch Lodge, dinner in the Dining Room
7:00PM Watch the sunset, photo coverage ends
Lake Crescent Experience
1:00PM Getting ready in Lake Crescent Lodge Cabins
2:00PM First Look outside the cabins
2:30PM Bride & groom portraits
2:45PM Ceremony on the pier
3:30PM Hike to Marymere Falls
4:00PM Portraits at waterfall
5:00PM Head back to the Lodge
6:00PM Dinner in the Lodge Dining Room
7:30PM First dance on the beach
8:00PM Cuddle by a campfire, read letters & Facetime friends
9:00PM Photo coverage ends
Other Resources for your Olympic National Park Elopement
Your Seasonal Washington elopement guide
How to Elope Quickly in Washington
TRAILS FOR YOUR HIKING ELOPEMENT
It's not too late to elope in 2024!
Washington is one of the simplest states to elope! If you want to tie the knot before the year is over, I can help suggest locations and itineraries to cut out the amount of paperwork (and bureaucratic timelines) involved. Let's hop on a call!
