Where to Elope in Olympic National Park, Washington

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Emerie DiGiovanni • December 5, 2023

Eloping in Olympic National Park, Washington

A bride and groom are walking down a path in the woods.

The PNW is such an amazing place to visit and Olympic National Park, specifically, has it all. From its beautiful and rugged coastline, temperate rainforests, lush greenery, and spectacular mountain views, If you’re looking to tie the knot in one of Washington's most geographically diverse national parks in the country then you’ve come to the right place. 


Tying the knot at the park is a dream for many so I wanted to build this helpful guide to tell you everything you need to know about how to elope in Olympic National Park.


Where to Elope


Hoh Rainforest


An absolute must see when visiting Olympic National Park. With all of the characteristics of the PNW the Hoh Rainforest has rain, fog, greenery, and moss. The Hoh is one of the finest remaining examples of temperate rainforest in the United States and is one of the park's most popular destinations.


The Hoh Rain Forest is located in the stretch of the Pacific Northwest rainforest and lies on the west side of Olympic National Park, about a two-hour drive from Port Angeles and under an hour from Forks and accessed by the Upper Hoh Road, off of Highway 101


Most of these trees are covered with hanging moss and ferns, giving this place such a unique and beautiful look. 


You’ll find just past the Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center two hiking trails,The Hall of Mosses Trail (most trafficked) which is an easy trail spanning about 0.8 miles long, and the Spruce Nature Trail, which is a bit longer at 1.2 miles. Both of these are great locations for photo opportunities and also well known spots for couples to tie the knot. Head a bit more into the forest to find Hoh River Trail where you’ll find numerous different trails along the river, some being less-traveled and more private, but always be mindful of the current weather and trail conditions before visiting. 


The Hoh Rain Forest is open daily April - November, weekends only December - March. Beyond contrary belief, the best time to visit is when it is damp and either raining or just after a rainstorm as that is when the moss is the most lush and green.



Hurricane Ridge


One of my all time favorite spots for elopements and photographing! Hurricane Ridge is the most accessible mountain location in the park that offers some of the most picturesque views of the mountains and wildflowers. The best part, this spot requires no hiking! I encourage couples to book their ceremony either during sunrise or sunset where they’ll find it less trafficked. 


Hurricane Ridge Road is open every day throughout summer and open Friday through Sunday and holiday Mondays throughout the winter months. Weather and road conditions permitting. Check the road status before by calling (360) 565-3131 and simply listen to the record message. 



Lake Cushman


Lake Cushman is a popular spot to visit in the summer months. You’ll find lots of people hiking, swimming, fishing, and paddling so keep this in mind if you’re visiting during the warmer months.The lake hugs the border of Olympic National Park and is closest to Seattle. Here you’ll find a number of hiking trails, water access, waterfalls, and camping.


Lake Cushman is insanely beautiful during sunset and you’ll find that the park hosts less visitors during that time of the day. You’re sure to get a private location right next to the water and surrounded by beautiful green pines.


Madison Falls


Madison Falls is a 60-foot waterfall in Olympic National Park and easily accessible by a very short paved trail. This is one of Olympics hidden gems so you may find that you have this spot all to yourselves when visiting. 


In this area you’ll find gorgeous views of the Elwha River, cascades, moss covered rocks, and tons of greenery. 


Washington Coast 


Olympic has a vast 73 miles of coastline. You’ll find anything from sandy or rocky beaches to some of the largest cliffs and bluffs. Mora and Rialto Beach offer ocean views and access to the iconic rocky beaches.Here you’ll find some of the coolest driftwood and seastacks along the ocean. Hole in the wall is an iconic hike that takes you along the seaside. Kalaloch is known for its wide sandy beach that may be a  great spot to elope if you’re interested in a beachy feel. Sunset is one of the most beautiful times to visit. Ozette is another great location which offers a diverse landscape full of beaches, lush forests, clear blue lakes, and seastacks. All locations offer tons of things to see, activities to do, and places to stay.


Ruby Beach, Kalaloch 


Kalaloch is one of the most visited areas of Olympic National Park, just located on the southwest coast of the Olympic Peninsula and accessible directly from Highway 101. The Tree of life which sits just 50 yards from a staircase that runs from Olympic National Park’s Kalaloch Campground to the beach. With lots of beachwood washed up on the beach daily it provides a nice backdrop while utilizing much texture in the sand, wood and water.


Ruby Beach is the iconic PNW beach you think of when thinking of the PNW. It has it all. Greenery, large rock formations, oceanviews, fog- the whole 9 yards. You’ll find that the beach can get a bit populated during the day and early afternoon but rest assured the beach spans about a mile long so a quick walk along the ocean and you’re sure to find a private cove to have your ceremony. You’ll also find Kalaloch Beach just south of Ruby beach which is another great location for an intimate ceremony.


Lake Quinault


You’ll find it all at Lake Quinault. From some of the clearest blue lake waters, beautiful rivers, lush thick forests, campgrounds, hiking, you name it. There is tons of diversity here and everything is very accessible. For my adventurous couples you’ll find tons of different hiking trails that offer many different options for photo opportunities and locations for intimate ceremonies. 


Permits, Fees, and other Helpful Info


Alright, now that we're hooked on the idea of eloping in Olympic National Park, you’ll need to get a Washington marriage license.You will also need an officiant and two witnesses in order to tie the knot in this beautiful location. 


For the park specifically you’re going to need a “special use permit,” which essentially allows you to have your ceremony in the park. This permit will cost $50. The permit process can be done online and be sure to submit your permit 4-6 weeks before your wedding date to allow time for processing.


Permit Process: 

  1. Fill out the application here.
  2. Email completed application to OLYM_Permits@nps.gov
  3. Once the office accepts your permit, they will send you a link where you will be able to pay the $50 permit fee online.
  4. After paying, you will then receive the completed permit in a few short weeks. 
  5. Print this out and bring it with you on your wedding day.


If you need more information, check out the official park’s website permit page.


Please be mindful that each location within the park is different. Most sites within the park only allow up to 30 people for a wedding or elopement. So if you’re looking at have a very intimate gathering with only a few guest, this may be the ideal spot. 


If you’re wanting to include your pet for your special day, you're in luck because Olympic National Park is a very dog friendly park. I would recommend that once you’ve narrowed down which locations you want to visit on your big day, spend some time researching whether they are dog friendly. Most are but you will find that dogs are typically not allowed at Olympic’s most popular sites like Hurricane Ridge, Lake Crescent, and the Hoh Rainforest. 


Lastly, keep in mind that traveling from location to location can take some serious time with how large these parks are. Always fill up your gas tank when given the opportunity!


When to Elope in Olympic National Park 


The best time to visit and elope in Olympic National Park is typically during the early spring or late fall. If you’re someone who adores the winter season and has always dreamed of getting married surrounded by snow covered mountain tops, you still absolutely can, it just takes a bit more planning and caution. 


Why early Spring? Although spring is a very popular time to visit the park, you'll find that visiting early in the morning or later in the evenings will help you avoid the larger crowds. During the Spring you’re more likely to see the forests at their greenest and waterfalls at their heaviest after the winter precipitation. You’ll likely see more wildlife and wildflowers, but be mindful that the Spring can really bring some rain! 


Personally, I loved coming to the park in May. The crowds were minialt, it still felt intimate and private, and everything just felt alive and vibrant! 


During the summer season, the park gets pretty crowded, and it can be difficult to find a secluded and intimate ceremony site in the more popular spots. I would opt for a sunrise or sunset elopement where you’ll see less people. The Summer can also offer some really great weather, hiking, and more activities then the other seasons so don’t cross it off your list just yet!


The fall and winter seem to be the seasons where you’ll see less crowds but still have epic views. Throughout the park trees will change from forest green to some of the brightest oranges, reds, and yellows. It’ll feel like you’re standing in a painting. You’ll start to see some snowfall towards the end of the fall months especially at the higher elevations. The winter is very rainy, snowy, and cold. You’ll notice that most attractions within the park are closed. However if you’re hoping to avoid crowds and winter just happens to be your favorite month, this might be the best time for you to visit. You’ll still find that there are numerous locations in the park that will protect you from the rain that are still just as beautiful if not more than the warmer seasons! I can totally picture a truly intimate elopement with snowcap mountains pictured in the back, couples in their suits and dresses but covered in cozy long coats, and after the ceremony spending the evening cozying in at a cabin with some hot cocoa–peace and serenity!


Accommodations, Things to do, Good Eats 


Hoh valley Cabins in the Hoh National Rainforest and the Hard Rain Cafe, which is a small cafe just outside of the Hoh National Rainforest. Cute family run place with great sandwiches and the huckleberry latte was the bomb! Souvenir shop included! The cabins are super quaint. There is a hangout spot next to a fire pit and you’re likely to see tons of wildlife!


Lake Quinault Lodge A very rustic, minimal lodge that offers tons of amenities. You’ll find many nearby trails to Redwoods, lakes, rivers, and waterfalls.Tons to do in the summer season. And with the lodge being conveniently located in the park you’ll find lots of nearby places to visit and sightsee!


Kalaloch Lodge located right inside Olympic Park, Forks, WA. With some of the most beautiful beachfront views. They offer different accommodations whether you’re looking to stay in a lodge or private cabins (more ideal for newlyweds or simply to be more private). You’ll fall asleep listening to the waves crash along the shore– immediately yes! 


Leave No Trace


Please when visiting these beautiful locations keep in mind the principles of Leave No Trace.


1. Plan ahead and prepare.

2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces.

3. Dispose of waste properly.

4. Leave what you find.

5. Minimize campfire impacts.

6. Respect wildlife.

7. Be considerate of other visitors.


“The idea behind the principles is to leave nature as unchanged by our presence as possible, so that future generations can enjoy it too. In essence, the purpose of Leave No Trace is to keep the wilderness wild.” Find more information here.


Olympic National Park has to be one of the most iconic and picturesque locations to tie the knot in the US.The PNW offers some really unique landscapes that you just can't quite get anywhere else. I love the diversity in the park as well, you don’t have to be an avid adventurer to get married in this beautiful location. 


I hope you found this guide on how to elope in Olympic National Park helpful and now I hope you’re even more excited about your special day. Your elopement should be one that is truly memorable and not just for the ceremony but everything that ties it all together to make it your day. It is truly about the experience as a whole that makes it so special. I have plenty of knowledge on the area and so much love for the PNW, I would be thrilled to show you all of the beautiful places that the park has to offer. It has always been one of my favorite places to photograph for couples whether it's just a couples shoot, an engagement, their wedding or elopement, it is just so breathtakingly amazing in so many ways. 


Check out my site to learn more about me, my style, packages that I offer, and feel free to reach out for bookings! 



Recent Testimonial “Emerie was extraordinary! We had such an amazing experience with her! She was also open to different angles and shoots we had in mind, she has such a humbling personality and was such a dear to work with. I’d recommend her to anyone that is looking to get Married or just have a fun photo shoot with her. She was so accommodating in every way and so very sweet. 10 out of 10! Best Day of Our Lives! We love you Emerie, Thank you again for making Our Day so special”

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The Importance of Consistent Style in Engagement Photography: Best Techniques

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