North Cascades National Park Elopement Step by Step Guide
Photographs by Sea to Summit Photography
North Cascades National Park Elopement Guide
Are you dreaming of an intimate, adventure-filled elopement surrounded by rugged mountain peaks and turquoise lakes? North Cascades National Park is an absolute gem for couples who want to skip the big wedding and exchange vows in one of Washington’s most beautiful National Parks.
This guide will help you plan the perfect elopement in North Cascades National Park. Whether you’re looking to elope just the two of you or want to bring on a few close friends and family, this guide will help you navigate how to have your North Cascades National Park elopement or intimate wedding. Ready? Let’s dive in.
Step 1: Choose Your Wedding Location: Best Locations for Your North Cascades Elopement
There are many beautiful locations for your North Cascades elopement or intimate wedding. Here are a few of my top locations for you to consider:
1. Artist Point & Picture Lake
If jaw-dropping mountain views are your thing, Artist Point should be at the top of your list. It’s easily accessible and perfect for sunset ceremonies. Picture saying your vows with Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan as your backdrop—pure magic! If you have any family members who needs some ADA accomodations, there are many beautiful views to enjoy from the parking lot. Plus, Artist Point is dog friendly! Check out my Artist Point Elopement Guide for more information on this North Cascades elopement location!
2. Diablo Lake
For couples who love vibrant colors, Diablo Lake’s unreal turquoise waters are hard to beat. This spot offers plenty of stunning overlooks and trails, making it ideal for intimate ceremonies and portraits.
3. At a Fire Lookout:
There are many fire lookout towers around North Cascades National Park to elope in, here are just a few to consider:
a. Hidden Lake Lookout
Highlights: Perched on a rocky peak with panoramic views of jagged peaks, glaciers, and alpine meadows. One of the most iconic spots for adventurous elopements in the North Cascades.
Hike Details:
Distance: 8 miles roundtrip.
Elevation Gain: 3,300 feet.
Best Time: July–October.
Special Notes: The lookout operates on a first-come, first-served basis if you plan to stay overnight.
b. Park Butte Lookout
Highlights: Stunning views of Mount Baker, surrounding peaks, and meadows filled with wildflowers. Ideal for sunset ceremonies and overnight stays.
Hike Details:
Distance: 7.5 miles roundtrip.
Elevation Gain: 2,200 feet.
Best Time: July–October.
Special Notes: Available for overnight stays but can’t be reserved, so early arrival is key.
c. Winchester Mountain Lookout
Highlights: Panoramic views of Mount Shuksan, Mount Baker, and alpine lakes. Easier access compared to other lookouts, making it great for elopements with minimal hiking.
Hike Details:
Distance: 3.2 miles roundtrip.
Elevation Gain: 1,300 feet.
Best Time: July–September.
Special Notes: No reservations required for overnight stays, but it’s first-come, first-served.
d. Goat Peak Lookout (near the Methow Valley)
Highlights: Epic views of the Methow Valley and surrounding peaks. Less crowded than other lookouts, providing more privacy.
Hike Details:
Distance: 3.5 miles roundtrip.
Elevation Gain: 1,500 feet.
Best Time: June–October.
Special Notes: More accessible by road compared to other locations.
4. Washington Pass Overlook
Want breathtaking views without much hiking? Washington Pass Overlook delivers. It’s a quick walk from the parking lot and offers panoramic views of the rugged peaks and valleys.
5. Baker Lake
For couples looking for an intimate, secluded experience, Baker Lake provides a sense of remoteness without being too difficult to reach. While accessible, it’s less crowded compared to some other national park destinations, making it an ideal location for those seeking privacy but still want an alpine lake and mountain views.
Step 2: Decide When to Elope in North Cascades National Park
The best time to elope in North Cascades is from early July to mid October. By then, the snow has melted, trails are accessible, and the weather is mild (always bring rain gear though, it is Washington, after all!). If you’re looking for more in depth answer for the best times of the year to elope in Washington, check out my Washington Adventure Elopement Guide.
Step 3: Hire Your North Cascades National Park Elopement Photographer
Hiring your elopement and wedding photographer should really feel like you’re hiring both an expert but a friend who you’ll feel both safe to be yourselves around and have that peace of mind that they have done this before! As someone who has photographed intimate weddings and elopements in North Cascades National Park, I’ll help you find your dream wedding location spot, help navigate the permitting process, help you find your other dream vendors, and of course, document your wedding.
Step 4: Research Your Permits & Marriage License Info
North Cascades National Park Wedding Permit
To hold your ceremony in the park, you’ll need a Special Use Permit. Make sure to apply early, especially for popular spots and during the busy summer months. You can find the link to apply for your Special Use Permit here. There is also a $50 non-refundable application fee.
P.S As stated earlier, I will do the special use permit application and pay the fee for you so you have nothing to worry about!
Marriage License Application
You’ll also need a Washington State to apply for a marriage license. It’s valid for 60 days, but there’s a 3-day waiting period after you apply, so plan ahead! You don’t need to be from Washington to apply for one, but if you’re wanting to get married in Washington, then you’ll need an application.
Keep in mind you can apply for any county in Washington, you do not have to get married in the county that issued you your license. Check out more information about marriage license applications in Washington here. Be sure to check out my guide on How to Get Married in Washington State for more information about the steps to get married here in WA.
Can You Bring Guests and Dogs to Your Elopement?
Bringing Guests
Yes! You can bring guests to your elopement, but keep in mind that many popular spots in North Cascades National Park are small or have limited space. If you’re planning to invite a few loved ones, make sure the location can accommodate your group without disrupting the natural surroundings. Smaller groups often work best to keep the experience intimate and stress-free. Make sure to always follow Leave No Trace rules (see more on that below).
Bringing Dogs
Fur babies are welcome in certain areas of North Cascades National Park, but there are restrictions. Dogs are allowed in campgrounds, picnic areas, and along roads but are not permitted on most trails to protect the local wildlife and vegetation. If bringing your furry friend is important to you, consider nearby dog-friendly locations in the Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest (Artist Point area), along the Pacific Crest Trail, or incorporate them into photos before or after your ceremony. Don’t forget to keep them leashed and clean up after them! For more information about pets at North Cascades click here. Be sure to check out my blog on how to have a dog friendly elopement.
Step 5: Find Places to Stay Near North Cascades National Park
There are many places to stay around North Cascades National Park, here are a few recommendations to look into!
North Cascades Lodge at Stehekin
Location: Nestled on the shores of Lake Chelan, accessible only by boat, floatplane, or hiking.
Accommodations: Offers a range of cozy rooms and cabins, with many featuring incredible views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Highlights: Perfect for those looking to escape to nature. Stehekin is a secluded village, and the lodge offers a tranquil environment with hiking trails, wildlife watching, and the scenic beauty of the North Cascades.
Sun Mountain Lodge
Location: In Winthrop, WA, approximately an hour from North Cascades National Park.
Accommodations: This resort offers both lodge rooms and luxurious cabins with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Amenities: Known for its upscale accommodations, it features fine dining, a spa, and year-round outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, and biking. The expansive views of the Methow Valley and the Cascade Mountains are a major draw.
Ross Lake Resort
Location: Situated on the shores of Ross Lake, within the North Cascades National Park. Accessible by boat from the Ross Lake Dam.
Accommodations: The resort offers cabin rentals, many of which are located directly on the water, providing spectacular views of the lake and surrounding peaks.
Highlights: Known for its rustic charm and secluded setting, Ross Lake Resort is perfect for those seeking peace and a more remote wilderness experience. Activities include kayaking, fishing, and hiking, with several scenic trails nearby.
Campgrounds
Newhalem Creek Campground
Location: Within the North Cascades National Park, near the town of Newhalem.
Access: It’s located along the Skagit River, providing excellent access to nearby trails, including the popular Ladder Creek Falls and the scenic trails around the area.
Amenities: Basic amenities including potable water, picnic tables, and fire rings. There are both tent and RV sites available.
Colonial Creek Campground
Location: On the shores of Diablo Lake within the North Cascades National Park.
Setting: Known for its spectacular views of the lake and surrounding mountains, this campground offers a serene lakeside experience.
Access: Great for water activities, such as kayaking and fishing, and offers direct access to hiking trails like the Thunder Knob Trail.
Amenities: Has both tent and RV campsites, with amenities like drinking water, flush toilets, and fire rings.
Goodell Creek Campground
Location: Near the town of Newhalem, also in the North Cascades National Park.
Setting: This more rustic campground is set in a wooded area with proximity to the Skagit River.
Access: Perfect for those who want to be deeper into nature and enjoy peace and quiet. It’s a great base for accessing nearby hiking trails.
Amenities: More basic than other campgrounds, with fewer facilities—there are only vault toilets, but the campground is still equipped with picnic tables and fire rings.
Campgrounds by Mt Baker Highway: Douglas Fir and Silver Fir Campground
Located just outside of Mt Baker Highway by Glacier, WA. Both tent camping and RV sites are available.
Located just a short distance up the highway, is another great option for camping right by Mt Baker and Artist Point area.
Step 6: Find Any Other Vendors to Make Your Day Special
Hiring local and vetted vendors by previous couples can make planning your elopement stress-free. From florists to hair and makeup artists that are willing to meet you at the trailhead with a brush in hand, I’ll help you find and book those dream vendors to make your dream wedding come to life.
Step 7: Have Your Wedding Experience of a Lifetime!
Saving the best for last, you get married!
Although planning an elopement or intimate wedding is much more less stressful, there are a few things to account for to have the best wedding experience possible. But hopefully this guide will be helpful in finding all of the details to make your dream wedding vision possible.
Leave No Trace Tips
As you continue planning your North Cascades National Park elopement, be sure to follow LNT principles. We all love these landscapes, so let’s keep them beautiful for future adventurers. Follow Leave No Trace principles by packing out everything you bring in and sticking to designated trails. If you’d like to learn more about LNT, click here.
Pro Tips for Your Elopement at North Cascades National Park
Pack Layers - Weather can change fast in the mountains, so bring warm clothes just in case.
Plan Timing Around Light and Crowds - Sunrise and sunset offer the best lighting for photos and the most privacy. Because this park can be very popular in the summer and fall, I highly recommend you elope during the weekday for maximum privacy and minimizing crowds on the trails.
Bring Comfy Shoes - Even short hikes can be rocky, so be prepared with footwear you can trust. Trust me, hiking boots look great with wedding dresses and suits!
North Cascades Elopement Packages
Included in Every All Inclusive Package:
— 6-14 hours of photo coverage anywhere in the North Cascades National Park
— In-depth location scouting, obtaining availability & quotes for all your vendors, day-of activities
— Planning portal, personalized day-of timeline, planning & logistics, special permits acquisition
— Beautiful high resolution photos in your personalized online digital gallery for you to share and cherish
— All travel & lodging fees included in Washington, Oregon, & PNW
Ready to Plan Your North Cascades Elopement?
Hi, this is Doug! I hope you found my guide helpful and feel excited to elope or have an intimate wedding in one of Washington’s most beautiful national parks. Eloping in the North Cascades is all about embracing the beauty of the outdoors and making your day uniquely yours.
If you’re ready to start planning or need a photographer who knows the area inside and out, simply email me at info@seatosummitphotos.com or fill out the contact form below. I can’t wait to hear all about your dream wedding and plans so far!
