Olympic National Park Wedding | What You Need to Know in 2026
2/05/2026
While there is a lot of consideration that goes into an Olympic National Park wedding, it doesn’t have to be a slog to figure out or plan.
An Olympic National Park wedding or elopement isn’t right for everyone, but it is perfect for couples who want a wedding location that allows them to:
- Experience multiple landscapes
- Witness wildlife like whales, Roosevelt elk and chunky lil’ marmots
- Really lean into the adventures that the Olympic Peninsula has to offer.
Olympic National Park is obviously one of our faves, so much so that we spent a year living next door to the Hoh Rainforest when we first started exploring the PNW in our RV. We fell in love with the moody weather in the off-season, the mountains that appeared to rise up from the ocean, and the emerald rainforests nestled inland from the rocky coast.
But, we’ll be honest, there have been a lot of couples that truly thought Olympic was THE best place to elope in Washington, until really digging into what they can expect.
As your Washington elopement photographers that specialize in Olympic National Park weddings and elopements, we’re here to break down the steps to planning a day full of intention, ease, and adventure.
This piece of content is…robust (because we don’t do anything half-assed). But, our goal here is to:
- Help you decide if it even is the right spot for your elopement day
- Give you all the info you need to plan Olympic National Park wedding.
- Make sure that you can curate a day that really aligns with the aspects you value the most
| Before you dive in…. This guide is long, but that’s because planning an Olympic National Park wedding can come with a lot of details. Here’s how we suggest viewing this guide: – Skim the sections that matter most to you. – Use the links at the top of each section to hop around. – Bookmark this guide and revisit it as you need. |
What This Olympic National Park Wedding Guide Covers
2. Olympic National Park Elopement Locations
- Elopement locations by landscape
- How to decide on the best location for your Olympic National Park elopement
- Olympic National park wedding venues & how to know if you need one
3. Choosing Your Date for your Olympic National Park wedding
- The Best season for your Olympic National Park
- The Best Day of the Week for an Olympic National Park Wedding
4. Vendors for your Olympic National Park Wedding
- Olympic National Park Elopement Photographers
- Hair + Makeup Artists
- Florists
- Officiants
- Catering & Private Chefs
- Budgeting for an Olympic National Park Elopement
- Travel Planning
- Creating Your Olympic National Park Wedding Timeline
- Packing list for your Olympic National Park elopement
- Olympic National Park Elopement Packages
6. Legalities and best practices for Getting Married in Olympic National Park
- What is a Special Use Permit
- Do you need a Special Use Permit
- How to apply for your Special Use Permit
- Including Guests
- Including your dog
- Leave No Trace & How it applies to your elopement
- Getting your Marriage License
- Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Links for Planning Your Olympic National Park Wedding
As you’re planning your Olympic National Park wedding, you’ll want to have access to some of the resources and we’ve put together some of the most important ones for you to access easily!
- Apply for your Olympic National Park Wedding Permit HERE
- Get your National Park Pass or a day pass HERE
- Stay up to date with trail conditions HERE
- Check road closures HERE
- Contact Your Washington elopement photographers about your Olympic National Park elopement HERE
Planning an Olympic National Park Wedding
IN THIS SECTION
- What makes an Olympic National Park wedding so special
- Is an Olympic National Park elopement right for you? Quick decision guide
- Planning steps in a nutshell
What Makes an Olympic National Park Wedding Unique?
Olympic National Park offers up just about every type of scenery you could hope for and an even more incredible experience.
Thinking of eloping in Olympic National Park? Here’s what you can look forward to:
- Striking, crystal clear lakes
- Lord of the Rings type forests
- Moody, rocky beaches
- Snowy mountains
- Gushing waterfalls
It truly has you feeling like you’ve walked into another world With the most diverse scenery in a National Park, the Olympics will have you questioning if you just walked into a fairytale.
With mountains born from the depths of the ocean, formed from the eruption of underwater volcanoes, and basalt sculpted by ages of erosion – well, there are few other places like it in the United States.
Is Olympic National Park Right for Your Wedding or Elopement?
If this is sounds like what you’re after, then Olympic is definitely the right place for you!
- You want to experience multiple dramatically different landscapes in one day.
- You’re keeping your elopement small and intimate.
- Flexibility is important to you, and you want to minimize permitting headaches.
- A moody vibe would add to the story of your wedding day.
- You want year-round options that has something special to offer each season.
- You’re drawn to easy-access and adventurous hiking options.
- The thought of walking through a lush rainforest at sunrise, lunch on a moody beach, and sunset in the mountains makes you swoon.
- To avoid crowds, you’re willing to put in some miles, or explore during a shoulder season (fall-spring).
- You like the idea of being surrounded by wilderness options that offer something off the beaten path.
How to Plan an Olympic National Park Wedding
Planning an intentional elopement day often comes with a lot of different considerations. Putting a day together often feels like a really fun jigsaw puzzle for us. However, when you’re in the very beginning of the planning process, it can feel overwhelming.
We’ll break down everything here. From big decisions like where to elope in Olympic National Park, to building a timeline for your day. We’ll walk you through the whole process.
Planning an Olympic National Park Wedding Overview
The step by step process:
1: Settle on a date
2: Book your Olympic National Park elopement photographers
3: Choose your locations
4: Finalize your details and paperwork
5: Get MARRIED!!!
Olympic National Park Elopement Locations
IN THIS SECTION
- Elopement locations by landscape
- How to decide on the best location for your Olympic National Park elopement
- Olympic National park wedding venues & how to know if you need one
We know we’ve gassed up the views at Olympic National Park, but having lived down the road from the heart of the park, we can pinky-promise that it definitely lives up to the hype.
Olympic National park is super diverse, and you could absolutely plan to explore multiple landscapes on your wedding day. In fact, we’d encourage it! Soak up as much scenery as you possibly can and center each piece of your day in a new location.
There are so many incredible ecosystems to explore during your Olympic National Park elopement and we’ll share some of the more well known options here.
Olympic National Park Elopement locations by landscapes
Waterfall elopement locations in Olympic National Park
You’ll find waterfalls all over the park, but two of the most popular, Sol Duc Falls and Marymere falls can be found in the Sol Duc and Lake Crescent areas.
Both locations require about 2 miles of hiking and are considered easy. Marymere is best in spring, but keep in mind, the viewing area is small and you’re blocked from getting to the base of the falls.
While Sol Duc is impressive year-round, it’s a popular spot and you can only view the falls from above.
If you’re willing to put in a bit of a drive, we’ll take you to some stunning falls that are just outside of the park and truly stunning.
See this Lake Crescent Wedding that features Marymere Falls
Mountain wedding locations in olympic national park
Hurricane Ridge is for sure the most popular mountain location. The views are insane and so crazy stunning. Don’t expect a shred of privacy here unless you opt for sunrise or sunset.
Hurricane Ridge is a drive up location, so super accessible. There are multiple trails to choose from with varying lengths. Remember, the easier it is to get to, the more folks you’ll share it with.
We have some other mountain locations that are far more private, however you’ll be putting in miles either hiking, or driving up some 4×4 roads.
Check out this Olympic Peninsula Elopement to see the most stunning mountain views
Rainforest wedding locations in Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park is home to some of the most incredible and diverse rainforests. The most popular being the Hoh Rain Forest, known for its lush canopy and thick coats of hanging moss.
If you’re wanting a vibe similar to the Hoh Rainforest but want to avoid the thousands of visitors this proportion of the park sees during peak season, there are plenty of other forests to choose from. keep in mind, you’ll have a longer drive, but the solitude is so worth it.
The Hoh Rainforest can be easily explored. Its trails are flat and could be considered as more of a jaunt through the forest rather than a hike.
Beach wedding locations in Olympic National Park
The rugged coastline of the Olympic Peninsula is hard to beat and the sunsets are magical. Ruby Beach elopements are some of the most popular as well as Kalaloch.
However, there are tons of beaches that see significantly less traffic that we love sharing with our couples. One of our favorites takes you through a coastal rainforest to the most stunning rocky beach.
Lake elopement locations in Olympic National Park
Lake Crescent is the most popular lake in Olympic National park. It’s stunning, easy to access, and is so clear, you can see about 60 feet below the water’s surface.
There are a ton of other lakes that don’t see quite as much traffic and offer up similar views.
Most lakes are super easy to access by vehicle. If you’re up for an adventure, we have some stellar ones to fit in along a backpacking route.
See this Lake Crescent Elopement
Backpacking & Wilderness elopement locations in Olympic National Park
Olympic National park is a backpackers paradise (speaking from experience). You can immerse yourself in every landscape on a multi day trip.
We love backpacking here in our downtime, and LOVE suggesting routes for our couples.
You can also plan a route through the coastline of the Olympic Peninsula to explore the moody beach scenery.
Wilderness locations will require some skill and experience.
See this Backpacking Wedding for some inspo!
Contact us about your Olympic National Park elopement
How to Choose the Best Location for your Olympic National Park Wedding
This is a BIG piece of the puzzle and one that many couples need a little guidance with. That’s just one reason why working with a Washington elopement photographer that is familiar with the area is super important. When deciding on where you want to elope in Olympic National Park, think about the landscapes that really inspire you and get you super stoked. We’ve got some ideas to get you started on narrowing it down, below.
Questions to help you decide on the perfect elopement location
- What views excite you + your partner the most?
- How accessible do you want your location to be?
- How much privacy are you hoping for?
- How do you want to access your location?
- If guests are joining you, what kind of accessibility do they need?
Choosing where you want to get married means really checking in with yourself and what you want your wedding day to feel like.
Olympic National Park Wedding Venues (When You Have Guests)
Let’s be real, if you have more than roughly 20 guests joining you for your Olympic National Park wedding, you may want to consider booking a wedding venue on the Olympic Peninsula. While there are a handful of locations where you may get your permit approved, it may also not be the most sustainable option.
| PRO TIP: Split your Olympic National Park wedding into two days. Spend one with your guests at a nearby venue and spend another exploring Olympic National Park together (in full wedding attire, obvi). |
WHY YOU SHOULD OPT FOR A WEDDING VENUE NEAR OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK
- Larger guest counts put a strain on park resources, and you already know that’s not the vibe ’round here.
- It is more difficult to implement leave no trace practices in this delicate landscape when you have a larger group. And we definitely want to make sure we’re being good stewards of the land.
- Logistics moving through the park can be a pain. Trust, you don’t want that stress.
- You’ll want to stick to locations that can accommodate your group size, which become limited when you have folks joining ya.
- A private venue will guarantee privacy for your ceremony, will be able to easily accommodate your group, and we can help you plan a “just us” adventure elsewhere in the park. You can have it all.
BEST WEDDING VENUES NEAR OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK
There are some absolutely incredible venues located near the park, so you’ll be able to have the best of both worlds. Prioritizing sustainability, and finding a venue that can accommodate your group size not only protects these public lands, but will also make the logistics of your day all the easier
OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK WEDDING VENUE LIST
| Venue | Details | Nearest Town |
|---|---|---|
| Agate Beach Lodge | A private beach, gorgeous lodge, towering trees, multiple locations for a ceremony, and an indoor event space…Say less, this place is PERFECT for couples wanting an intimate space to host their celebration and have access to some STUNNING scenery. | Port Angeles |
| Nature Bridge | Beautiful outdoor locations on the shores of Lake Crescent. The Nature Bridge focuses on bringing environmental programs to schools | Port Angeles |
| Fern Acres | In the heart of the Olympic Peninsula, this enchanting forested venue is the perfect place for you to celebrate with your closest friends and fam. Elopements with 15 guests or less may be booked throughout the year. | Forks |
| Park Lodges | The lodges inside Olympic National Park make for some sweet elopement venues and the best part is, they’re in the heart of the park! | Various locations |
Choosing A Date for Your Olympic National Park Wedding
IN THIS SECTION:
- The Best season for your Olympic National Park
- The Best Day of the Week for an Olympic National Park Wedding
Let’s break down choosing the best date for your Olympic National Park wedding or elopement. There are a few things you’ll want to consider:
1. The vibe you’re after.
2. The views you want.
3. What you want to prioritize on your wedding day (like privacy, ease, or predictable weather)
Every couple is different and with each season that provides an aspect that you want, there will usually be *something* that you’ll need to consider and determine if it’s worth it, because mother nature can be a doozy sometimes.
The Best Season for Your Olympic National Park Wedding
Each season comes with a unique set of challenges and opportunities for your Olympic National Park wedding. As you’re planning your day, knowing what your experience will be like throughout the year can be mega helpful, especially if you’re not settled on a set date.
| Season | Pros | Challenges |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | – Less crowds – Wildflowers in lower elevations – The waterfalls pop off | – Unpredictable weather – Higher elevation areas may still be closed |
| Summer | – The weather is more predictable – Trails and higher elevation areas are open – Unlimited adventure activities | – The crowds are pretty intense – Lodging and campsites swiped up FAST – Wildfire season can be intense |
| Autumn | – Fall colors go off – Best time to catch the – PNW✨MOOD✨ – Less crowds | – Occasional showers – Cooler temps |
| Winter | – Snowy landscapes – Less crowds – Backcountry winter sports | – Road + trail closures in higher elevations – Weather is definitely on the moody side – Rain is common in lower elevations |
SEASONAL CLOSURES IN OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK
Olympic National Park is open year-round, though some areas are closed during the winter months, such as:
- Hurricane Ridge Road: Leads to Hurricane Ridge ski area and typically closes in Mid October to vehicles. It remains open to cross country skiers and snowshoeing.
- Obstruction Point Road: Usually closed November-May this road accesses high backcountry camping in the olympic wilderness and hiking trails.
- Hoh Road: This usually stays open year-round, but it experiences SOOO MUCH rain during the winter months that it can close suddenly because of landslides and fallen trees.
That still leaves a HUGE portion of the over 900,000 acres of Olympic National Park open for adventures even in the coldest months.
You’ll still have access to mountains, waterfalls, moody beaches, and stunning lakes year-round.
OUR FAVORITE SEASON TO ELOPE IN OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK
While each season has plenty of considerations, based on our experience, early fall is our absolute favorite time of the year in Olympic National Park.
While the weather can be more unpredictable, embracing it is part of the magic.
We love the moodiness of the fall season and the colors changing is truly something to behold. You can still access the Hurricane Ridge area in early fall and may even get some snow which is pretty damn magical.
Best Day of the Week for an Olympic National Park Wedding
When planning your Olympic National Park wedding or elopement, we HIGHLY recommend opting for a weekday. Specifically, Tuesday – Thursday. This is especially true during the busiest months July-August.
When eloping in the shoulder seasons (fall/spring) you will see significantly less crowds, but weekends can see an influx, especially in the fall when fishing season really picks up.
WEEKDAY VS WEEKEND FOR YOUR OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK WEDDING
| Tuesday – Thursday | Monday & Friday | Saturday & Sunday |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday through Thursday are the best days for couples that prefer more privacy. You’ll see less crowds and have more flexibility. In the fall, campsites become first come first serve and these are the best days to snag one! | You’ll likely see less folks than the weekends, but TBH Monday and Friday can be just as packed as the weekends, ESPECIALLY during summer months. Give yourselves more time than you think you need in case you have to wait for crowds. | NGL the weekends see a lot of folks! During peak season (summer), the crowds can be a lil’ crazy. If you’re eloping during peak season and are committed to a Saturday/Sunday, opt to celebrate around sunrise and sunset. Build in plenty of time into your elopement timeline so that traffic and entry lines don’t throw your whole day and vibe off. |
If you absolutely have to have your Olympic National Park wedding or elopement on a weekend, then our best advice is to opt for sunrise or sunset, during peak season.
Vendors for Your Olympic National Park Wedding
IN THIS SECTION:
CHOOSING OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK WEDDING VENDORS
The folks you hire will be your biggest cheerleaders for your Olympic National Park elopement or wedding. They’ll be there with the knowledge and know how to make your day go off without a hitch.
Here are some Olympic National Park elopement vendors you may want to consider and how they can enhance your wedding day.
Olympic National Park Elopement Photographers
We know that may seem a little weird, but deciding to elope in the great outdoors throws the typical “wedding planning structure” out the window. Hiring an Olympic National Park elopement photographer (that’s us) will make a huge difference into how easy the planning process is and make a big impact on your elopement day.
It’s important to make sure that you consider the following when deciding on your Washington elopement photographers.
THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN HIRING YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER
DO YOU VIBE WITH THEM?
- Your Olympic National park elopement photographers will likely be the only folks that witness your vows. They will be with you the entire day and you are entrusting them with the only documentation of this experience. It’s beyond important that you feel comfortable with them.
- This aspect of hiring an Adventure elopement photographer is so important that it’s one of the biggest reasons we hop on a call with each couple that reaches out to us.
- Make sure they’re the right fit for your adventure elopement and what you envision for your wedding day.
Are they familiar with Olympic National Park, & support you as you plan?
- Having an elopement photographer that is super familiar with the ins and outs of the park makes a huge difference.
- Having a familiarity with the park means that your photographer can suggest locations for you to consider based on what you’re envisioning for your day, locations you’re drawn to, and the pieces of your experience you want to prioritize.
Can they help you with big picture elements of your day?
Many couples come to us without a set date or specific location. Based on our knowledge of Olympic National Park, we’re able to support them, and weigh their options to meet their priorities.
Are they familiar with the permit process?
- The permit process and qualifications for National Parks can be a little nuanced and can be a bit of a pain to navigate if you’re not familiar with it.
- This is why you’ll want to ensure that your Olympic National Park Photographer is well-versed on what is required from Olympic National Park for special use permits.
Are they familiar with Leave No Trace Principles?
- Having a photographer that prioritizes sustainability of public lands is extremely important and can save you a lot of stress on, and before your Olympic National Park wedding
- We send out a Leave No Trace resource to our couples to help them and any guests joining them to be prepared.
- In our location suggestions, we detail out Leave No Trace considerations for each location to help couples as they choose where they want to elope and how to plan ahead.
- We also help our couples share this information with their guests to make practicing Leave No Trace simple for the whole group.
We love public lands and want to make sure folks can exchange vows on them for a long time, so continuing to do our best is a biggie for us.
How will your Olympic National Park elopement photographer support you during the planning process?
- Not every photographer offers the same support when working with you. Some photographers may not suggest locations, some only offer help building a timeline, others may choose not to be part of the planning process at all and are simply there to document the agreed upon hours and deliver edited images.
- Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide how much support you need as you plan your Olympic National Park elopement.
The way we do things around here is a little more comprehensive. Supporting our couples as they plan, sharing our knowledge, crafting resources, and building a relationship is how we create our best work.
| PROTIP: Hire your Washington elopement photographers that specialize in Olympic national Park elopements first. Trust us when we say this will make the rest of the planning process 1,000% easier. |
HAIR & MAKEUP ARTISTS
Having an artist for your hair and makeup can take out the stress of getting ready. You’ll want to find a HAMUA that’ll help lock in your look no matter the adventures you’ll be going on during your wedding day.
FLORISTS
Just because you’re eloping doesn’t mean you can’t incorporate beautiful florals into your day. Gorgeous arrangements serve as a big storytelling component of your day and are the perfect element to use to make your day unique and showcase your personalities.
OFFIANTS
Having an officiant to work closely with you as you build your ceremony and support you as you apply for your license is awesome. If you’re wanting someone to lead your ceremony, hiring an officiant that’s down to explore is the way to go. If you prefer a “just us” feel to your ceremony, we’re ordained and happy to help!
CATERING & PRIVATE CHEFS
Hiring a private chef for the day, or for one meal can be such an incredible experience to share on your day. You’re not having to pay for dinner, drinks, and dessert for 100+ guests – so go on and treat yourselves! You can also opt to have a catered picnic with a beautiful, lux charcuterie board.
Logistics & Details of an Olympic National Park Wedding
IN THIS SECTION
- Budgeting for an Olympic National Park Elopement
- Travel Planning
- Creating Your Olympic National Park Wedding Timeline
- Packing list for your Olympic National Park elopement
- Olympic National Park Elopement Packages
Budgeting for an Olympic National Park Wedding
Even an elopement that spares no expense will likely cost significantly less than a traditional wedding. It’s estimated that on average, a traditional wedding will cost roughly 36k. The largest percentage of those costs go towards wedding aspects that focus on guests.
Olympic National Park Elopement Costs vs. Traditional Wedding Costs
There’s a lot of talk that couples choosing to elope don’t want to spend on a traditional wedding, that they don’t value their wedding day. But, speaking from experience, eloping couples put so much care and intention into each element of their day.
Getting married is a big deal. Whether you want an Olympic National Park elopement that is stripped down and simple, or you wanna go all out and have a luxurious experience, you deserve a day that celebrates the unique story that brought you here, and to be able to relive each moment for decades to come.
There’s no other day like this one.
Your wedding day is about celebrating what you’ve built and setting intentions for this new chapter.
Do this before you budget
Ask yourselves these questions to get crystal clear on what you value for your wedding day.
- What is the most important part of your wedding day? Is it documentation of each moment? Is it the food you eat, or the clothes you wear?
- How do you want to express yourselves on your wedding day? Is it through your attire? Maybe it’s in floral designs or hair and makeup?
- What experiences are really important for you to have on your wedding day?
- What are some things that bring you joy and make you feel pampered? How do you want to incorporate that into your wedding day?
- How important is a certain type of lodging?
- What are some of the logistical costs that need to be considered? Like your marriage license and permit?
Defining your priorities will give you the strongest foundation for building a budget for your Olympic National Park wedding.
Sample Olympic National Park Elopement Budget
This budget is based on a couple celebrating their Olympic National Park elopement, just the two of them!
*Many of these calculations are based on factors that have different variables (like travel + attire). Some are based on an average. Take these numbers and adjust them according to your needs!
| Attire | $1,500 – $2,800 |
| Florals | $250 – $500 |
| Private Chef | $500 (average) |
| Officiant | $300-$1,500 (or complimentary with us) |
| Hair and Makeup | $300-$3000 |
| Travel (flights, rental, gas, etc.) for a week | $4,000 |
| Marriage license | $70 |
| Photography | $6,500 |
| Total | $13,420 – $18,870 |
Even on the high end, you save about 50% compared to a traditional wedding. Not bad for an epic wedding day that gives a pretty incredible start to this new chapter!
Olympic National Park Wedding Logistics & Travel Planning
Getting Around Olympic National Park on Your Wedding Day
We’ve probably established that Olympic National Park is pretty dang big, so let’s break down the different areas to give you a sense of where you want to go. If you want to explore all of these areas (which we highly recommend), give yourselves about a week to see everything you want to without feeling rushed.
Plan on driving quite a bit when exploring different areas. This massively diverse park can take a few hours to get from one end to the other.
There are other areas of the park that aren’t as popular and some pretty stellar spots in Olympic National Forest. We’re listing out the 4 main/most popular areas here:
The Olympic Coastline
ACCESS TO
- Ruby Beach
- Kalaloch Beach
- Shi Shi
- La Push
- Rialto
WHERE TO STAY
For this area, you’ll likely want to stay in Forks! This will give you the quickest, and easiest access. You’ll have about an hour plus drive to the Port Angeles area.
The Northern Section
ACCESS TO
- Lake Crescent
- Marymere falls
- Sol Duc
- Hurricane Ridge
WHERE TO STAY
Port Angeles is close to all of these areas and definitely where you’ll want make that your home base if you want to avoid a long drive.
The Southern Section
ACCESS TO
- Hoh rainforest
- Hall of mosses
- Ruby Beach
- Kalaloch
WHERE TO STAY
Forks is the quickest access to some of the best rainforests and while you’ll still have roughly a 30 minute drive, it’s all absolutely beautiful and definitely the closest option.
Nearest Airports for an Olympic National Park Wedding
SEATAC (Seattle)
- About two hours East from Olympic National Park
PDX (Portland)
- Around three hours South of Olympic National Park
Where to Stay for Your Olympic National Park Wedding or Elopement
Booking your lodging is a big detail and you’ll want to prioritize finding the perfect spot. This is where you’ll likely get ready, finish writing your vows, maybe eat your first meal as a married couple, where you may see each other in your wedding attire for the first time.
What to consider when choosing your lodging
#1: The Olympics are obviously huge, and you’ll want to book lodging as close to where you want to explore on your elopement day. This can save you hours of drive time on your elopement day.
#2: There aren’t a ton of amenities in certain areas. The biggest towns with more lodging options are Port Angeles + Forks. Port Angeles is a bigger town and has more options in terms of lodging, vendors, and places to eat. Staying in one of these towns will give you quicker access to certain locations and will give you more dining options.
#3: Book your lodging ASAP. Lodging books up FAST here! You’ll want to decide on your location, then book your lodging shortly after. We’re listing some stays in this section to get you started!
Where to Stay Near Forks for your Olympic National Park wedding
| Quick overview: – Distance from Hurricane Ridge: About 2 hours – Distance from Lake Crescent: About 40 minutes – Distance from Hoh: About 45 minutes – Distance from coast: About 30 minutes depending on the beach |
#1 A unique riverside cabin
- Located on the Bogachiel River
- Tons of natural light
- Short drive to La Push and Rialto
- Remote, off-grid property
Check it out here
#2 Tiny home on the Sol Duc River
- Hot tub
- Lots of natural light
- Right on the sol duc river
- Pets allowed
Check it out here
#3 A cottage on the Hoh River
- Sleeps up to 7 guests
- Plenty of natural light
- In a beautiful location
- Pet friendly
Check it out here
Where to Stay Near Port Angeles for your Olympic National Park Elopement
| Quick Overview: – Distance from Hurricane Ridge: About 40 minutes – Distance from Lake Crescent: About 30 minutes – Distance from Hoh: About 2 hours – Distance from coast: About 1.5 hours depending on the beach |
#1 A cottage near Lake Crescent
- Right on lake Crescent
- Nestled in a little forest cove
- Rental Season – May 21st to September 8th
Check it out here
#2 A riverfront cabin
- Hot tub
- Right in between lake Crescent and the Hoh
- Tons of natural light
Check it out here
#3 Stay in a Lake Sutherland cabin
- Lakefront cabin with private dock
- Pet friendly
- 1 bedroom 1 bath
Check it out here
Lodging Inside Olympic National Park
There are plenty of options to stay inside Olympic National Park as well. These campsites and lodges book up quickly, so snag ’em quick!
- Located on the coast near Kalaloch beach
- Offers a few different types of lodging including cabins, main lodge, seacrest house
- Located on Lake Crescent
- Offers cabins, rooms, and cottages
- Located on Lake Crescent
- Offers cabins, rooms, and cottages
- Located in the Sol Duc area
- Offers up access to the resort style Sol Duc hot springs
- Offers up riverside rooms and cabins
Camping for your elopement in Olympic National Park
- Near Lake Crescent with some lakeside sites to choose from.
- Campsites aren’t right on the beach, but they have beach access.
- 2 miles from Rialto. Snuggled in the coastal forest and on the shores of the Quillayute River.
- Located in the temperate rainforest and alongside the Hoh River
- The campground is on the Sol Duc river in the heart of an old growth forest. Both tent and RV sites are available
*There are also plenty of backcountry campsites both in the Olympic National Park and in the surrounding National forests. You may need a separate permit, depending!
Unique Stays Near Olympic National Park
Looking for something a lil’ different for your Olympic National Park Elopement or wedding? Check out these super unique stays!
- This awesome Treehouse
- This glamping village
- This bluff of stacked a-frame shelters
- This off-grid cabin with an insane view
Creating Your Olympic National Park Wedding Timeline
An elopement timeline is wayyy different than a wedding timeline. In fact, it’s probably one of the biggest differences between an elopement vs weddings. Remember, you’ve decided to get married without a wedding, and that means your timeline can be super chill.
How to Build an Olympic National Park Elopement Timeline
You’ll want to ask yourselves some important questions before you get too deep into planning your elopement timeline
#1: What kind of pace do we want for our elopement day? Do we want a relaxed, super chill timeline, or do we prefer things to be at a more exciting pace, or a mixture of both.
#2: How much driving time are we comfortable with to get the experience we want? Remember, driving to different locations in the Olympic Peninsula can take some time. Be super honest with how much drive time you’re comfy with in one day. This can also be a good indicator if a two-day experience is more aligned with your vision.
#3: If guests are joining your Olympic National Park wedding, consider how much time you want to spend with them vs just you and your partner. You can split your day up to give yourselves some time just the two of you.
Best Time of Day for an Olympic National Park Wedding
Your elopement deserves the same amount of documentation as a traditional wedding day, so don’t be concerned about only sticking to golden hour for your photos.
Here’s a break down the lighting throughout the day and what element of your Olympic National Park elopement may pair best with them.
| Time of day | Info | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|
| A.M. Blue Hour | Happens the hour before sunriseThis light makes for some moody images | A morning hike, or getting ready for a sunrise ceremony in your cabin |
| A.M. Golden Hour | Happens the hour after sunrise This light is soft, golden, and is super flattering | Ideal for a morning hike, or getting ready for a sunrise ceremony in your cabin |
| Mid-day | Between the hours after sunrise and before sunset Tends to be harsher and changes with the movement of the sun. | Ideal for adventuresGreat for indoor elements of your day, like getting readyActivities with guestsCeremony as you move into the later afternoon and early evening |
| P.M. Golden Hour | Happens the hour before sunset Golden, directional light. Similar to the a.m. golden hour, but you can expect it to be more directional and have a more golden color to it. | Portraits Dances Activities + adventures |
| P.M. Blue Hour | Happens the hour after sunset This light makes for some moody,sweet, and creative images. | Campfire photosCandle lit dinner Star photos as the you get further into the night |
Olympic National Park Elopement Timeline Examples
Here are a few Olympic National Park elopement timelines to help you envision what your day could look like. Building a timeline for your Olympic National Park elopement or wedding looks a lot different than a traditional wedding timeline.
We build timelines for all of our couples and take into consideration their desired pace, chosen adventures, best light, and all the travel logistics.
For a deep dive into building a timeline, check out our post on building the perfect elopement timeline.
Sunrise Waterfall Elopement | Half Day
6:00 am | Meet at the trailhead
6:30 am | Get ready as the sun rises
7:00 am | First look in the forest
8:30 am | Ceremony
9:00 am | Hike back + explore
10:00 am | Coverage ends
Mountain Top Elopement | Full Day
12:00| Meet at cabin
1:00 | Start getting ready
2:30 | First look by the river
3:00 | Drive to location
4:30 | Explore
5:00 | Ceremony + celebration
5:30 | First dance
6:00 | Explore trails + viewpoints
7:00 | Mountaintop picnic during sunset
8:00 | Coverage ends
Sunrise & Sunset
Sunrise Schedule
5:00 | Meet at cabin + get ready
5:30 | Leave for adventure location
6:30 | Hike
7:00 | Explore trail and viewpoints
8:00 | Coffee with mountain views
8:30 | Hike back
9:00 | Head back to cabin
Big ‘Ole Break
2:00 | Get ready
3:30 | First look at the lake
4:00 | Head to the coast
5:30 | Arrive
6:00 | Ceremony on the beach
6:30 | Catered picnic dinner
7:00 | Fun Portraits
8:00 | Sunset + coverage ends
Preparing for Weather & Adventure in Olympic National Park
Ahhh Mother Nature! One of the most impactful elements of an adventure elopement is the weather. While you may have an ideal weather scenario you’re picturing for your day, it’s important to hold it loosely.
What to Do If It Rains on Your Olympic National Park Wedding Day
Even in the summer months, rain happens in the PNW, it’s part of the charm. Having a backup plan, or being prepared for rainy weather, will help you enjoy your day no matter what mother nature throws at ya!
But, you already know we’re to drop some tips to help you embrace the weather:
#1: Clear umbrellas can come in super handy. Pack a few with you just in case!
#2: Pack waterproof layers + shoes
#3: Bring some hand + body warmers with you to help you stay warm.
Additionally, stay up to date on predicted weather, closed trails, and snowpack on the park website.
Packing List for Your Olympic National Park Wedding
The Obvious
- Rings
- Wedding attire
- Adventure shoes
- Change of socks
- Marriage license
- Vows
- Permit
Weather and timeline dependent
- Waterproof jacket
- Clear umbrellas
- Bear spray
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Headlamps
- Bug Spray
- Warm layers
- Hand Warmers
- Fleece lined leggings (in the chillier months)
For Travel
- Park Pass
- Downloaded maps
- Snacks & Beverages
Olympic National Park Elopement Packages
What’s Included in Our Olympic National Park Elopement Packages
Our Olympic National Park elopement packages are crafted to blend a mixture of adventure and luxury for our couples, allowing you to celebrate in beautiful locations and curate a bespoke experience.
Our Olympic National Park elopement packages are crafted to blend a mixture of adventure and ease for our couples, allowing you to celebrate in beautiful locations and curate a bespoke experience.
All our Olympic National Park elopement packages include:
Curated location suggestions based on what you envision for your day.
We do the scouting for you, so that you can just get stoked and pick your fave spots that fit your vision. We take into account all of your accessibility preferences, your desired pace, the adventures you want to go on, and scenery you want to explore.
navigate the permit process
So that you don’t have to stress about it! Once we have a pretty clear vision for your day, we’ll be able to tell you if you’ll need a permit, then walk you through the process of applying for it!
Intentional Timeline Curation
Your elopement timeline takes into consideration the best light for your locations and each element of your day. We’ll also make sure you have time to explore and soak in the day without feeling rushed.
access to our Elopement Planning resources
This includes our comprehensive elopement guide, curated location guides, local interests, vendors, and resources to help you plan your adventure top to bottom, so that you never have to wonder if there’s something you’ve missed.
Vendor recommendations for your olympic national park wedding
We’ll share vetted vendors that serve your area. Florals, picnics, private chefs, hair and makeup, hot air balloon rides, whale-watching tours, whatever you’re thinking about incorporating,
A guide customized for your guests
This includes ceremony details, guidance on what to wear, links to purchase day passes, etc. So that you don’t have to answer 5000 questions leading up to your day, and your guests get to feel excited and prepared.
Complimentary officiant services
Sam is ordained and we’re always happy top provide officiant services to couples, so you can have a “just us” vibe to your ceremony. This means you’ll always have an officiant to lead your ceremony that is down to hike to ends of the earth for ya!
Olympic National Park Wedding Permits + Legal Requirements
IN THIS SECTION
- What is a Special Use Permit
- Do you need a Special Use Permit
- How to apply for your Special Use Permit
- Including Guests
- Including your dog
- Leave No Trace & How it applies to your elopement
- Getting your Marriage License
- Frequently Asked Questions
Ok, time to tackle the paperwork! Granted this piece of planning is significantly less exciting and doesn’t offer the same dopamine rush as planning your locations and details, but it is no less super important! There are two super important documents that you may need for your Olympic National Park Wedding: Your marriage license and your Olympic National Park wedding permit.
What is a Special Use Permit?
- Think of a special use permit like an agreement with a wedding venue: It details out what you can/can’t do, where you can do it, and how to keep the impact of your Olympic National Park minimal. The costs and qualifications of a special use permit vary from park to park, so it’s important to know if/when one is required. Skipping on applying for a permit can lead to a hefty fine and a stressful wedding day.
Do You Need a Permit for an Olympic National Park Wedding?
Your Olympic National Park wedding may require a special use permit to legally take place in the park. Typically if your elopement has less than 6 folks (including onsite vendors like photographers), a permit is not needed.
- If you have more than 6, you’ll need to apply for a permit.
- If you have a larger group, say 15-20, you’ll see some restrictions on where you can elope.
How to Apply for an Olympic National Park Wedding Permit
To apply for an Olympic National Park wedding permit, you’ll want to visit the special use permit section of the park website. You’ll be able to read the qualifications and apply for your permit here. But before you apply for your permit, you’ll need to have the following figured out:
- The date for your Olympic National Park wedding
- Your location and backup locations for your ceremony
- Your guest count (including vendors that will be there with you, like your photographers)
- Estimated number of vehicles
Here’s a step by step breakdown of the process
1: Choose your location
2: Fill out your permit application. You can find it here.
3: Email your finished permit to OLYM_Permits@nps.gov
4: After the office has it, you’ll be sent a link to pay your $50 application fee
5: Print your permit out and bring it with you on your wedding day
| *Permit requirements can change year to year, so always double-check the current rules on the official park website. |
Including Guests at Your Olympic National Park Wedding
You can absolutely include guests in your Olympic National Park elopement. As you begin assembling your guest lists, keep sustainability in mind.
Here are some tips and considerations for including your guests in your Olympic National Park elopement:
#1 Keep it small:
The maximum number of guests that join you varies depending on your chosen location. If you have a group of 12 or less (this includes vendors joining you), you’ll have most park locations and trails available to you, but more than that and you’ll need to use the parks designated ceremony locations.
#2 Keep Accessibility in mind:
When including guests in your Olympic National Park elopement, you’ll want to keep their accessibility and needs in mind.
#3 Prep you guests:
Keep everyone that’s joining you in the loop about your day of plans. We’ll give you plenty of help and support with this. You’ll want to make sure that everyone is well-prepared and that expectations are super clear.
#4 Carpool as much as possible:
Carpooling and choosing a less popular day/season can help prevent putting any unnecessary strain on park resources.
#5 Prioritize Leave No Trace:
Prepare your guests to Leave No Trace. We’ll provide information and resources for this as well, but ensuring that your guests understand the importance of practicing LNT will help make sure your day is stress-free.
If you have folks that you cannot imagine getting married without, you should absolutely include them in your wedding day. There are plenty of locations to accommodate a small guest count and nearby venues that are perfect for larger groups.
| PROTIP: Can’t decide if you want to bring guests along or not? Split your celebration into two days. This will help give you the best of both and allow you to be fully present with your guests on one day and then spend the next just you and your partner. |
Can You Bring Your Dog to an Olympic National Park Wedding?
Yes! While most National Parks only allow paws on paved areas, Olympic National Park has multiple areas and trails that allow pups to explore.
Your pups are welcome in these specific areas:
- Peabody Creek Trail: Olympic National Park Visitor Center in Port Angeles
- Rialto Beach: From the parking lot to Ellen Creek (1/2 mile)
- Certain Beaches: Between the Hoh and Quinault Reservations (Kalaloch)
- Madison Falls Trail: Elwha area
- Spruce Railroad Trail: North shore of Lake Crescent
- July Creek Loop Trail: North shore of Lake Quinault
- Dogs are also allowed in Drive in Campgrounds, on paved or dirt roads, and picnic areas
When including your pups in your Olympic National Park elopement, follow the B.A.R.K. Guidelines
B | Bag your pets poop: This is pretty obvious, but super important
A | Always wear a leash: Dogs must be on a leash when in the park
R | Respect wildlife: Keep your pups from interacting with wildlife
K | Know where you can go: Make sure your location is dog friendly
Leave No Trace for Your Olympic National Park Wedding
Been wondering what the heck we’re talking about when we bring up Leave No Trace? We’ll break it down here!
Let’s chat about how you can incorporate sustainability into your Olympic National Park Elopement.
Remember, we want our public lands to be accessible to eloping couples for decades to come, and doing our best to keep our impact low is key to making that happen.
Here’s what practicing Leave No Trace looks like for your Olympic National Park wedding.
#1 Plan ahead + Prepare:
- Familiarize yourself with the park, selected trails/area, and nearby facilities. Know where the nearest restroom is, and other basic information.
- Download important maps as you likely won’t have any cell service.
- Obtain any necessary permits.
- Bring weather necessities & appropriate footwear.
#2 Travel + Camp on durable surfaces:
- Stick to designated trails.
- Don’t walk through meadows. These are super fragile areas and trekking through them can destroy them for years.
- Camp only in designated areas.
- Stand on durable surfaces like rocks
#3 Dispose of waste properly:
- Pack out toilet paper and hygiene products.
- Have a potty plan!
Here’s what ONP advises if a toilet is not available: walk at least 200 feet (about 70 adult paces) from water, camp, and trails. With a small garden trowel, dig a hole 6-8 inches deep and 4-6 inches in diameter. Cover and disguise when finished.
#4 Leave what you find:
Leave rocks, plants, and other natural objects as you find them (don’t worry we’ll snap pics of everything).
#5 Minimize campfire impact:
- Know if there are any county fire restrictions in your lodging area.
- Keep fire in designated rings.
- Make sure your fires are fully extinguished.
#6 Respect wildlife:
- Don’t approach or feed wildlife.
- Research and familiarize yourself with dangerous wildlife in Olympic National Park and what the safety procedures are.
- When camping, follow park regulations for food storage and use a bear can.
#7 Be considerate of other visitors:
Respect other wilderness visitors and their experience.
How to Get a Washington Marriage License for Your Olympic National Park Wedding
For your Olympic National Park elopement, you have a few options:
Option 1:
Get your marriage license taken care of before your elopement so the legal paperwork is out of the way. A few of our couples have opted to do this for logistics and if the date on your marriage license isn’t super important, then getting your marriage license before traveling for your elopement can be a great option.
Option 2:
Get your marriage license in Washington. You can absolutely pick up your marriage license before your Olympic National Park elopement. This would mean that the date and location of your elopement would be reflected in your marriage license.
Requirements to get legally married in Olympic National Park
There’s a waiting period
- Washington requires a three day waiting period. For example, if you apply on Monday, the earliest you could have your ceremony would be Thursday.
Your Washington Marriage License is valid in the whole state
- Your Washington Marriage license is valid anywhere in the state of Washington. It is not mandatory that you get married in the county your license is issued in.
There’s a license Fee
- Fees vary by county typically they fall between $69 – $72
There are some ceremony requirements
- For your ceremony, you’ll need an officiant + 2 witnesses. If you want a friend or family member to serve as your officiant, they can become ordained here. It’s super easy and free. Sam is also ordained, so she can serve as an officiant. We’re also always thrilled to sign as witnesses
Here’s where you can get your Washington marriage license
- You can pick up your marriage license at any county clerk’s office. You’ll want to make an appointment and fill out any paperwork ahead of time. If you’re staying near Olympic, you can apply for and pick up your marriage license at the County Clerk’s Office in Port Angeles, or in Jefferson County
Olympic National Park Wedding FAQs
How much does an Olympic National Park wedding cost?
On average You can anticipate spending between $13,420 – $18,870. This ballpark can fluctuate depending on travel.
Do you need a permit for an Olympic National Park wedding?
If you have more than 6 in your group you’ll need a special use permit from the park to have your ceremony within park boundaries.
What’s the best time of year to get married in Olympic National Park?
Early fall is particularly lovely and sees fewer crowds than peak months. Aim for after labor day when the crowds clear out!
How many guests can you have at an Olympic National Park wedding?
This depends on the area, but we try to encourage couples to keep at max 20, with the knowledge that you’ll be limited to certain areas.
What is the best month for an Olympic National Park wedding?
Late July – early August is great for wildflowers in high elevation and predictable weather. While, Late September- early November for fall colors and less crowds
Can you get married anywhere in Olympic National Park?
If it’s just the two of you, you won’t face any location limitations.
Are dogs allowed at Olympic National Park weddings?
Dogs are allowed in certain areas and on specific trails in the park. When bringing your pups, always remember to B.A.R.K.
Still have questions? We’re here to help!
One last note on planning an Olympic National Park Wedding
In our opinion the pros of an Olympic National Park wedding far outweigh any challenges that come with eloping in the great outdoors.
With some expert planning and support from your Olympic National Park elopement photographers (hiiii!) you’ll be able to have the day of your dreams.
We can pinky promise you that planning an adventure you’re stoked on feels a heck of a lot more exciting than planning a traditional wedding you don’t feel connected to.
Ready to make this official? Contact us
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