11 Best spring locations in Washington for your Elopement
Everyone knows summer is a prime time for elopements in Washington State, famed for its vibrant summers and lush landscapes. However, springtime in Washington shouldn’t be overlooked. It's a season filled with its own unique charms and is equally epic for those looking to celebrate their love in an intimate and memorable way. Here’s why spring might just be the perfect time for your elopement photoshoot, along with a few of our favorite locations.
Why spring in Washington is unmissable for Elopements
Clearing Weather: After the long, wet winter, the PNW begins to shake off the raindrops with the arrival of spring. The skies clear up, and the air remains crisp, offering fresh, vivid skies as a brilliant backdrop for photos.
More Sunshine: Days start stretching longer, and the sun graces us with more frequent appearances. This not only means warmer days but also gives you more golden hours. The soft, flattering light at dawn and dusk makes for absolutely ethereal photo opportunities.
Explosion of Wildflowers: Spring is when Washington State truly comes alive with colors. Hillsides, meadows, and forest floors burst into a carpet of wildflowers. From the vibrant rhododendrons to the delicate trilliums, these natural bouquets create stunning, romantic settings that are perfect for an elopement photoshoot.
Top 8 springtime locations for an Elopement in Washington State
1. Wenatchee
Nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Sage Hills transforms into an extraordinary spectacle of nature in the spring. For most of the year, this region presents a challenging climate, veering between cold, biting winters and scorching, dry summers. However, for a brief period during the transitional months of spring, Sage Hills reveals its gentler, more colorful side, making it an ideal spot for couples seeking a unique and vibrant setting for their pre-summer wedding.
2. Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park is one of those parks that is great for an elopement all year round due to its easily accessible locations like Rialto Beach, Hoh Rain Forest, Madison Falls, and Crescent Lake. It's perfect for couples who like to say their vows during a less busy season and are looking for a more moody vibe in their photos. Still want mountain views? No problem; Hurricane Ridge is open all year round!
3. Columbia River Gorge
The Gorge is a treasure trove of scenic spots, especially in spring when the waterfalls are full and the surrounding woodlands are lush with new growth. Places like Dog Mountain or Dallas Mountain Ranch offer sweeping views and spectacular wildflower displays in April and May. Want more than just wildflowers? Cross the river and hop over the state border to visit the Oregon side of the Columbia River gorge. This side of the river is filled with Waterfalls!
4. Palouse falls
Palouse Falls in Eastern Washington is a photographer's paradise, evoking a "Grand Canyon vibe" with its dramatic and rugged landscape. Located just a few hours east of Seattle, this state park features a majestic waterfall that cascades into a striking canyon pool, creating dreamlike photo opportunities. The park offers several distinct viewpoints of the falls, each providing a unique perspective and stunning photographic potential. Ideal for mid-March photoshoots, Palouse Falls is less crowded at this time, and the snow has typically melted away, revealing the raw, natural beauty of the area. Photographers can capture the powerful flow of the waterfall and the dramatic cliffs surrounding it, making it a must-visit destination for capturing the essence of Washington’s dramatic landscapes.
5. Leavenworth Area
Leavenworth, Washington, in spring, is a delight for the senses, as this charming Bavarian-themed town awakens with vibrant energy. The season brings a colorful transformation with blooming flowers and lush greenery set against the backdrop of the surrounding Cascade Mountains. The town’s picturesque streets become bustling with outdoor dining, festivals, and an array of activities from hiking to river rafting, making it an ideal spring getaway. Visitors can enjoy the mild weather while exploring local shops, tasting rooms, and the natural beauty of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness nearby.
6. Mount St Helens
Eloping at Mount St. Helens in the spring offers couples a uniquely dramatic and beautiful setting for their special day. As the landscape awakens from winter, the area around this iconic volcano begins to bloom with life, providing a striking contrast to the stark, lunar-like surfaces near the crater. The mountain's surrounding forests and meadows are lush with spring greenery and wildflowers, setting a vibrant stage for intimate ceremonies. With fewer visitors and milder weather, spring is an ideal time to exchange vows amidst the breathtaking views and serene ambiance of Mount St. Helens, making it an unforgettable destination for adventure-loving couples.
7. Deception Pass State Park
Eloping in Deception Pass State Park allows couples to immerse themselves in one of Washington's most spectacular natural settings. With its iconic high bridge spanning the turbulent waters below, the park offers a variety of breathtaking backdrops, from rugged coastlines to dense, fern-covered forests. Intimate ceremonies can be held on quiet, pebbled beaches or atop cliffside viewpoints overlooking the Puget Sound and surrounding islands. Deception Pass is ideal for those who dream of a serene, nature-filled wedding day, complete with dramatic scenery and the tranquil sounds of the sea.
8. Snoqualmie Pass
Snoqualmie Pass is perfect for couples who fly into Seattle and don’t want to travel far. Although the high-elevation hikes will still be covered in snow, some lower-elevation locations are perfect during the spring. Franklin Falls, Gold Creek Pond, and the Middle Fork are some of our favorite areas to explore during this season.
9. San Juan Islands
Eloping in the San Juan Islands offers couples a unique and intimate experience set against the stunning backdrop of the Pacific Northwest. The islands provide a diverse array of picturesque settings, from serene waterfronts to lush forests and charming lighthouses. Couples can exchange vows on the rocky shores of Lime Kiln Point with the possibility of orcas passing by in the distance, adding a magical element to the ceremony. Local inns and B&Bs specialize in creating cozy, romantic atmospheres perfect for newlyweds, ensuring a private and memorable stay. Additionally, the mild climate and abundant natural beauty make the San Juan Islands an ideal destination for an elopement any time of year.
10. Diablo Lake
Highway 20, the road leading to Diablo Lake, usually opens in late April or early May, which is perfect for couples planning an elopement during mid to late spring. Nestled in the North Cascades, the lake's vibrant color, created by glacial silt, makes it an extraordinary setting for exchanging vows. The surrounding panoramic views of snow-capped mountains and lush forests offer endless opportunities for breathtaking wedding photos.
11. Ancient Lakes
Springtime hikes around ancient lakes provide a unique opportunity to witness the awakening of nature. As the ice thaws and temperatures rise, the landscape undergoes a transformation, revealing the rugged beauty of these historic bodies of water. Hikers can explore the remnants of ancient civilizations and geological formations while enjoying the fresh air and budding vegetation.
More Washington Elopement Planning Resources
Spring in Washington is a season of renewal and vibrancy, making it a spectacular choice for an elopement. Not only are these locations visually stunning in the springtime, but they also offer a sense of privacy and intimacy that can be harder to find during the busy summer months. Whether you're exchanging vows or capturing your love in photographs, these spots in spring provide a magical setting worthy of your special moments.