Ultimate Mt Rainier National Park Elopement Guide
Photographs by Sea to Summit Photography
About Mt Rainier Elopements
Mt Rainier is one of the best places to elope in Washington! This National park is open and accessible year-round. Just a few hours away from Seattle, it is a national park that is accessible! From views of the majestic mountain, alpine lakes, fire lookouts, and lush forests, there is a magical spot for everyone. During the late summer days, the Mt Rainier wildflowers are in full bloom, so if you’re looking for a Washington wildflower elopement, definitely consider Mt Rainier as your elopement location!
How to Elope in Mt Rainier National Park
Although many couples choose to elope to get rid of the stress of a big wedding, there are many things to consider when eloping in a National Park. That’s why I first recommend finding your Mt Rainier National Park elopement photographer first (wink, wink!). They will help with finding the perfect location for your elopement, get the right permits, and help with timeline, logistics, vendor recommendations and lodging suggestions.
Once you have chosen your adventure elopement photographer, it’s time to choose a part of Mt Rainier for your elopement.
Places to Elope in Mt Rainier Park:
1.Carbon River Area
This area is located on the Northwest side of the park is open year round. Carbon river has access to many hiking locations and mountain biking locations. Filled with thick forests, you could get rainforest vibes with a gorgeous view! Best of both worlds.
2. Nisqually Area
Located on the Southwest side of the mountain near Ashford, this is one of the popular entrances to Mt Rainier. If you’re looking to stay in an A frame cabin in the woods, a log cabin, or a unique lodging experience, I highly recommend staying near here for your elopement as it’s a short drive away to the park’s entrance. If you’re looking to elope in Paradise in Mt Rainier, consider driving up this way.
3. Sunrise Area
Sunrise is located on the Northeast part of the park where white river is and is probably the most common area for Mt Rainier elopements. Sunrise are houses many unique trails, hikes, and even fire lookout towers! Because it gets closer to the park, this area closes in the winter and the spring, so if you want to elope in the Sunrise area, I recommend choosing a date around mid July to late September.
4. Stevens Canyon
Another common elopement location is Stevens canyon, just past Packwood, Washington. Located on the Southeast part of the park, this is area opens a bit earlier than Sunrise. So if you’re looking for a late spring/early summer Mt Rainier elopement, let’s find you a gorgeous spot around the Stevens Canyon entrance of the park.
When to Elope in Mt Rainier National Park
As mentioned above, there are several areas of the park that are open year round, so you could elope any time of the year. That being said, the best time to elope in Mt Rainier is between early July to mid September. Wild flowers are in full bloom in late July and early August. There is also a very good chance you’ll snag fantastic weather, making July and August a common time to elope in Mt Rainer National Park
Mt Rainier National Park Wedding Permits
Like most national parks, Mt Rainier requires a wedding permit for all couples. As your adventure elopement photographer, this is one of the many things I will do for my couples; I’ll apply for all special day use and wedding permits to make your elopement stress-free.
You will need to purchase a América the beautiful pass or a day pass for parking. Typically you can purchase those at all park entrances, or can do so online. You can find more about Mt rainier parking passes here.
Be sure to apply for your marriage license! I am always happy to help couples with anything they need, I am more than just your photographer, after all!
Mt Rainier National Park Elopement Packages
Mt Rainier is truly magical and special place, it takes my breath away every time I visit. If you’re thinking of having a Mt Rainier elopement, check out my elopement and intimate wedding packages here.
Mt Rainier Elopement Photographer
Hey there! My name is Doug, adventure elopement photographer capturing couples like you in one of the most beautiful locations Washington State has to offer. If you’re looking for Mt Rainier elopement photographer for your wedding, I’d love to chat and learn more about your vision and dreams and make your Mt Rainier elopement come true! You can get in touch with me by filling out this form below or email me for more information at info@seatosummitphotos.com
