If you’ve found yourself here on the blog, I know I don’t need to convince you just how incredible Olympic National Park is — especially for an elopement or destination wedding. Situated on over 900,000 acres comprised of 3 distinct ecosystems, and boasting 73 miles of wilderness coastline, it’s no wonder why Olympic National Park is one of the most diverse national parks in the United States. With such vast areas to explore, the most difficult part of eloping in Olympic National Park is choosing just one place to say “I do!” Luckily for you, as a Seattle wedding and elopement photographer, I’ve put together an insider’s guide to eloping in Olympic National Park – all in a one-stop-shop to help take the stress out of planning your best day ever. Here, you’ll find step-by-step tips, ceremony locations, local restaurants, accommodations, and more! So, let’s just get into it, shall we?!
Eloping in Olympic National Park | Pacific Northwest Elopement Tips
1. Pick a Season or Date | Best Times of Year to Visit Olympic National Park
The first step in planning your Olympic National Park elopement is to choose a season, if you don’t already have a date in mind. Understanding what the conditions are like throughout each season in Olympic National Park is key to helping make your elopement dreams a reality. Just because you love Summer in your state, doesn’t mean you will love all that comes with Summer along the Olympic Coast.
Precipitation can also be a huge obstacle when planning your elopement — from heavy snowfall to soaking rains. Something unique about the Olympic Coast is the “Rain Shadow Effect”. As storms move across the Pacific onto the Olympic Peninsula, they encounter the Olympic Mountains. As the storm pushes past the peaks, moisture is pushed out to allow it to continue moving. Because of the Rain Shadow Effect, the western portion of the park receives far more precipitation than the eastern portion. To put it into perspective, Kaloloch (located on the western coast) receives over 100” of rainfall annually, whereas Port Angeles (located in the northeastern portion of the peninsula) receives only 30” of rainfall annually.
Each season in the park is different, each offering its own bit of magic to discover. So let’s chat about what each season entails in Olympic National Park.
Spring in Olympic National Park:
Spring in the Pacific Northwest means milder temperatures and calmer weather, but it also means unpredictability. The calendar might say “May”, but it’s not too foreign for new snowfall and heavy rain to occur in higher elevations. Some higher elevations may still be impassable due to snow-cover. You should be prepared for cooler, mild temperatures, so layers are always necessary during this time of year.
If whale watching is on your bucket list, Spring is the best time to do so in Olympic National Park! You will likely spot gray whales from Kalaloch Lodge, but you may also spot some orcas or humpbacks! Bring your binoculars for wildlife viewing along the coast and further inland, as life returns with the warming temperatures.
It’s also important to note that Spring in Olympic National Park is the second most popular season for tourism, so be prepared for crowds. Because of this, be sure to secure your wedding permit as soon as you’re able (I chat about permits later in the blog.)
Summer in Olympic National Park:
If Spring is when life starts to return to the park, Summer is when we get to enjoy just how hard mother nature has worked. Wildflower meadows pop up across the valleys, tide pools burst with marine life, and thunderstorms roll across the area, creating even more vibrant greenery to marvel in.
To no surprise, July and August are the most popular months for visitors in Olympic National Park. Temperatures are mild and pleasant, but can vary drastically among different elevations and locations. Summer in your state may bring sweltering temperatures and thick humidity, but you will likely want a light jacket or even some warm gear depending on where your adventure takes you for your Pacific Northwest elopement. In addition, be prepared for fog along the coast, which can impact visibility.
Fall in Olympic National Park:
While Fall isn’t the most popular time to visit Olympic National Park, it is still a magical time to experience. With Fall foliage bringing the forests to life, mushrooms popping up along the forest floors, and salmon leaping up the Salmon Cascades, it’s a nature-lovers wonderland.
Fall in Olympic National Park is also when we start to see temperatures decrease, and precipitation rise. As early as late September, snowfall can appear in the high country. Cool rains and blustery winds rush in across lower elevations, including the rainforests and beaches towards late October/early November. Mountain elevations begin experiencing freezing temperatures, with the rest of the peninsula only dropping below freezing overnight. Be prepared for road and campground closures at this time, as the park prepares for Winter.
Winter in Olympic National Park:
Returning to the Rain Shadow Effect, Winter is the wettest season in Olympic National Park. Rain falls most days among lower elevations, while snow begins to blanket higher elevations. Temperatures in Port Angeles and along the coast remain in the 40s, but Hurricane Ridge (and other higher elevations) typically have highs in the 20s and 30s. Regardless of where you plan on being if eloping in the Winter, dress for the conditions, and always have more warm and dry layers available. Hurricane Ridge is an incredible location for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and even downhill skiing. If partaking in Winter sports at Hurricane Ridge, be aware of avalanche risks.
In the event that Winter sports aren’t your jam, head down to the Kolaloch Lodge to watch violent storms roll across the Pacific, while you remain warm and safe inside.
Whatever season you choose for your Olympic National Park elopement, you have every opportunity to create your own adventure. Researching and enlisting the expertise of your elopement photographer or planner will help eliminate surprises or unexpected conditions for your “I do’s”.
2. Choose a Wedding Ceremony Location | Where to Elope in Olympic National Park
Traveling to Olympic National Park
Before we dive into what I consider to be the top wedding ceremony locations in Olympic National Park, let’s talk about getting to the park! You will most likely drive into the park, whether that be from Portland, Seattle, or somewhere else. However, there is also the option of taking a ferry from Seattle to the ONP, which is pretty cool.
- Seattle, Washington to Hoh Rain Forest —> 4 hours and 50 minutes (via car)
- Portland, Oregon to Hoh Rain Forest —> 5 hours and 10 minutes (via car)
- Seattle-Tacoma International Airport to Port Angeles —> 2 hours and 26 minutes (via car)
- Bus to Port Angeles: Clallam Transit Strait Shot
- Seattle-Bainbridge Ferry —> 35 minute sailing time, with 1 hour and 45 minute drive time to Port Angeles (via car)
- Edmonds-Kingston Ferry —> 30 minute sailing time, with 1 hour and 30 minute drive time to Port Angeles (via car)
- Bus to Port Angeles: Dungeness Bus Line
- Coupeville-Port Townsend Ferry —> 35 minute sailing time, with 1 hour and 5 minute drive time to Port Angeles (via car)
- No bus to Port Angeles
- Bus to Sequim: Jefferson Transit
Clallam Transit is a great option for visitors who wish to explore ONP. The transit also services Seattle and Olympia, which allows visitors to fly into SeaTac and visit the park via bus. You can plan your route with Clallam Transit here. For all ferries, be sure to check Hike Olympic for ferry schedules, vehicle spaces remaining, and more.
Olympic National Park Wedding Ceremony Locations
Alright, so now you know how to get to Olympic National Park—so where the heck is your actual destination within the park!? If you’re like me, you’re drawn to a certain feeling. When you picture your elopement and saying “I do” to your lover, you’re probably envisioning a specific atmosphere. Olympic National Park offers a wide range of stunning backdrops and atmospheres to choose from, which can definitely feel a little overwhelming. But don’t worry—I’ve put together a handy list based purely on the overall feel of each spot to help elevate your elopement experience.
Okay now, here comes my favorite part. I want you to close your eyes! Come on, close them. Picture yourselves in your wedding attire, vow books in hand, ready to make your promises to each other surrounded by epic nature. Where are you? Can you hear ocean waves crashing to shore as seagulls float overhead? Do you smell the salty tang of the sea, as mist gently kisses your face? Are your barefeet sinking into the sand? Or maybe you hear song birds twittering in the trees, as leaves gently rustle above. Your nose picks up the earthy smell of the moss-covered forest floor as you stroll through lush ferns and towering spruce trees.
Your vision for your wedding day is powerful. If you and your partner envision being immersed in a lush rainforest as you exchange vows, don’t waste your time on coastal or mountain elopement locations. But if you are still struggling to envision your big day, check out some incredible Olympic National Park wedding ceremony locations below.
Best Coastal Vibes in ONP
If you’re envisioning exchanging vows along the Pacific with the quintessential Olympic National Park views, the Western Coast is right for you. With a dramatic rock formations, sandy beaches, and tide pools galore, there is so much to be discovered on the coast. Here are 3 places to consider for your coastal nuptials:
- Ruby Beach
- Known for reddish sands, monstrous sea stacks, and endless coastal views
- Kalaloch Beach
- Known for the Tree of Life, smooth driftwood, and misty skies
- Rialto Beach
- Known for the iconic Hole-in-the-Wall arch, large driftwood logs, and rugged beauty
Stunning Dramatic Lake Views in ONP
Discover the pristine waters of Lake Crescent, located about 20 miles west of Port Angeles. Carved by glaciers, this deep lake offers incredible views and tons of recreation, all just less than an hour from the Western Coast. You’ll almost forget that you’re tucked away on the Olympic Coast with just how “familiar” lake life feels at Lake Crescent.
If you’re planning on spending a lot of time on the Western Coast anyway, Lake Quinault might be a better fit for you! Take in the beauty of alpine meadows, ice-carved peaks, and deep blue waters. Lace up your hiking boots or bring your fishing poles to enjoy the breathtaking views of Lake Quinault.
Breathtaking Endless Views in ONP
If you haven’t already gathered by now, no place in Olympic National Park is immune from incredible views. But if you want nothing more than to marvel in unreal views, I highly recommend heading to the mountains. Hurricane Ridge is the most easily accessible mountain area within the park, offering 360° views of sprawling meadows, snowcapped peaks, and towering pines.
Alternatively, get the best of both worlds by choosing Mount Storm King for your wedding ceremony. You’ll have views of Lake Crescent at the peak, after enduring a challenging hike. Roundtrip, the hike to the peak is 4.6 miles, and includes areas of scrambling and using ropes to hoist yourself up. If you’re already challenging yourself with this hike, I highly recommend tacking on Marymere Falls to round-out the insane views.
Unreal, Lush Rainforests in ONP
You can’t come to Olympic National Park without enchanting lush rainforests, but make sure to include Hoh Rainforest on your “must-see” list. Located in the western part of the park, there is something so enchanting about immersing yourself among moss covered tress. Speaking of moss, hiking the short Hall of Mosses Trail is such a treat! There is no shortage of flora, fauna, and wildlife to marvel in within the rainforest. Keep your eyes peeled for elk, bears, otters, bobcats, and mountain lions. But you’ll also spot slugs, snails, salamanders, owls, and robins as you explore the area.
Marymere Falls and Madison Falls are another couple options for enchanting rainforest vibes. The 60-foot Madison Falls is one of the most accessible destinations in the park, so be prepared for large crowds if you choose to exchange vows here.
3. Obtain a Permit (if necessary) | Olympic National Park Wedding Permits
If you’ve researched eloping in other national parks, you’ve probably noticed that most require a special use permit for elopements. But something really unique about eloping in Olympic National Park is that a permit is only required for wedding ceremonies with 5 or more guests (including vendors). The steps outlined on the National Park Service website make it super easy to fill out an application, but here is what is required when filling out the application:
- Non-refundable application fee of $50 is required
- Description of proposed activity (your photographer will be a great resource for filling this portion out)
- Number of participants/guests
- Number of vehicles
- List of equipment (again, your vendors will be helpful for this)
In regards to your photographer, videographer, or other vendors, they will obtain their own permits required to participate in your special day.
4. Secure Accommodations | Where to Stay in Olympic National Park
Where you stay for your elopement will affect your overall experience. While it might be easy to think, “We probably won’t spend much time there anyway, so it doesn’t matter that much,” I couldn’t agree less. Just as important as it is to choose a ceremony locations based off ‘vibes’, its just as important for your accommodations! There’s nothing worse than having a fun day fully immersed in nature, and then having to return to a stuffy hotel room with a view of a parking garage. Keep your adventure going by choosing a stay that aligns with your vision. Whether you and your partner are team Airbnb, VRBO, or even camping, I highly recommend leaning into enhancing your elopement with some fun accommodations. Here are some recommendations for some incredible Olympic National Park vacation rentals:
Olympic National Park Vacation Rentals
Miller Tree Inn (AKA: the Twilight house)
- Bed and Breakfast
- 8 rooms to choose from
- Each room is equipped with a private bathroom
- Select rooms have a jetted tub or soaking tub
- Flexible breakfast options
- Sleeps up to 4 guests
- 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths
- Situated along the Strait of Juan de Fuca
- Large deck, 75 feet from the surf
- Floor to ceiling windows
- Private yard and private beach access
- Sleeps up to 15
- 4 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms
- Nestled in the lush beauty of Forks, Washington
- 20 minute drive to La Push
- Sleeps up to 28
- 7 bedrooms, 2 full baths, 2 half baths
- Overlooks the Strait of Juan de Fuca
- Game room
- Private hot tub
Camping in Olympic National Park
Looking to fully embrace the ‘adventure’ in your adventurous Pacific Northwest elopement? I am WITH YOU! Camping on the Olympic Peninsula is next-level. Even if you and your partner want to enjoy modern accommodations leading up to your wedding day, I highly recommend giving camping a try during your time in Olympic National Park. Check out the gems below to consider for your camping digs:
- Sol Duc Campground
- Hot springs resort campground
- 82 tent sites, 17 RV campsites
- Nestled under a lush old growth canopy
- Multiple hiking trails directly from campground
- Most popular: Sol Duc Falls
- Kalaloch Campground
- Located on southwest coast
- 160 campsites, 1 group site, 4 accessible sites
- Several campsites overlook the water
- Beach access within the facility
- Multiple hiking trails
- Visit Recreation.gov for booking information, as this popular campground utilizes different reservation systems and booking windows
- Hoh Campground
- RESERVATIONS ON HOLD as of April 2025 due to road repairs
- 72 campsites, 1 group site, 1 ADA accessible site
- Dump station + fill station closed indefinitely
- Visit Recreation.gov for booking information, as this popular campground utilizes different reservation systems and booking windows
- Multiple hiking trails
5. Choose Your Elopement Activities
Not to sound like a broken record, but it’s time to close your eyes again. If you could do anything on your wedding day, or during your time on the Olympic Peninsula, what would you do? Maybe you would start your morning off together by having breakfast at a cozy café before heading back to your vacation rental to get ready. After exchanging vows in the forest and go for a little hike, maybe you bring a picnic down to the beach to enjoy each other’s company while you read letters from loved ones. Wrap up your day by heading back to your vacation rental to hot tub and enjoy s’mores by the campfire.
Perhaps you and your partner love adventure. Imagine an early morning spent in your Port Angeles vacation rental, enjoying a snack and coffee before getting ready. Share a first look at Ediz Hook before heading to Marymere Falls for a sunrise wedding ceremony surrounded by your favorite people. After your ceremony, head for a scenic drive with a couple stops along the way to The Springs Restaurant at Sol Duc for breakfast. Hop back onto US-101 E and either go back to Port Angeles or continue your scenic drive and do a loop that includes Sappho and Pysht. Recoup for a bit before heading to Sequim for a sunset sail on Sequim Bay. A jam packed day full of adventure!
These are just some ideas and itinerary examples for your elopement, but I have a complete blog with a ton of wedding day activities to add to your itinerary, no matter where your elopement takes you. But if you’re on the lookout for some other Olympic peninsula activities, here are a few recommendations:
- Rose Theater – Screens art-house movies
- Art Museums
- Sequim Lavender Festival
- Whale-watching (Best during the Spring and Fall)
- Kayak out to see Ghost Forest at Copalis Beach
Olympic Peninsula Restaurants
And if you’re like my partner and me, and you love a good bite, here are some local favorites to check out:
- Granny’s Café
- Next Door Gastropub
- The Salmon House Restaurant
- Harbinger Wine Bar
- Mighty Pine Brewery
- Lake Crescent Lodge
- Breakwater Restaurant
6. Get Legal
Both parties must be 18 years or older and provide a current photo ID. You will also need to know your Social Security Numbers, your parents’ birth names, and their place of birth. There Washington state law requires a 3-day waiting period before you are legally able to get married. After the waiting period, marriage licenses are valid for 60 days. You can apply online or in-person for your marriage license.
Each county has their own regulations and fees, so make sure to research which county you will be obtaining your license from for fee information and other specifications. Olympic National Park spans across 4 counties — Clallam, Grays Harbor, Jefferson, and Mason. Click the hyperlinks for additional marriage licensing information.
In order to make it official, 2 witnesses and an officiant are required. I am ordained, as is my built-in-business-partner, Kevin. Your witnesses can be any 2 people (but cannot include your officiant), from loved ones, park rangers, or even folks you stumble upon in the park.
Olympic National Park Elopement Photographer | Wilder Photography
With this Olympic National Park elopement guide in hand, you’re one step closer to making your elopement dreams a reality. To recap, you can start planning your elopement in Olympic National Park by:
- Picking a Season or Date
- Choosing a Wedding Ceremony Location
- Obtaining a Special Use Permit (if necessary)
- Securing Accommodations
- Selecting Your Elopement Activities
- Getting Legal
Other factors to consider when planning your elopement would be selecting wedding vendors, putting together a guest list, and arranging travel. I highly recommend allowing yourself plenty of time to navigate your ‘wedding planning era’, especially for a national park elopement. Permits and accommodations may be limited due to staff shortages and new regulations. Your elopement photographer and/or elopement planner will be a great resource to reference throughout this exciting season of your life.
Still searching for your Olympic National Park elopement photographer? Well, heya, I’m Sam — a Seattle wedding and elopement photographer for the romantics with a sense of wonder. I would love to connect and dream about your best day ever! Be sure to drop a follow over on the ‘Gram (@samwilderphotography) to keep up with my adventures and to swoon over my incredible couples. Happy planning, friend.
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