How to Elope in Washington State | Guide
Dreaming of an intimate, adventure-filled wedding in the Pacific Northwest? Washington State is home to some of the most breathtaking elopement locations, from the towering peaks of Mount Rainier National Park to the lush forests of the North Cascades and the rugged coastline of Olympic National Park.
Whether you envision saying your vows on a secluded mountaintop, a scenic beach, or in front of a cascading waterfall, Washington offers endless possibilities for couples looking for a stress-free, nature-inspired wedding experience.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to elope in Washington, including:
✅ The best locations for an unforgettable ceremony
✅ Legal requirements and permits
✅ The best seasons for eloping in Washington
✅ Essential planning tips to make your day seamless
Whether you're a local couple or traveling in for your elopement, this guide will help you navigate the process of planning your elopement so you can focus on celebrating your love in one of the most stunning places in the world.
Why get Married in Washington State?
Washington State is one of the most stunning and diverse wedding destinations in the U.S., making it perfect for couples seeking a unique and adventurous elopement. Here’s why the Pacific Northwest is the ideal place to say "I do":
Evergreen Forests & National Forests
Washington’s towering evergreen forests and vast national forest create a serene and intimate atmosphere for your wedding. Whether you dream of a peaceful ceremony in the woods or a scenic forest elopement, these lush landscapes provide an enchanting, storybook-like backdrop.
Majestic Mountains
From the snow-capped peaks of Mount Rainier to the rugged slopes of the North Cascades, Washington’s mountains offer breathtaking views for your special day. Whether you prefer a mountaintop ceremony or a lakeside celebration, the stunning alpine scenery makes for an unforgettable wedding.
Rugged Coastlines
Washington’s dramatic coastlines and iconic beaches provide the perfect setting for couples drawn to the sea. Exchange vows on a windswept beach with waves crashing in the background, surrounded by towering cliffs and stunning ocean vistas.
Three Incredible National Parks
Washington is home to three spectacular national parks—each offering a unique setting for your elopement:
Olympic National Park – Lush rainforests, rugged coastline, and alpine meadows. Want to elope in Olympic National Park? Check out our Olympic National Park Elopement Guide
Mount Rainier National Park – Wildflower-filled valleys, glaciers, and breathtaking mountain views. Mount Rainier Elopement Guide
North Cascades National Park – Remote alpine lakes, jagged peaks, and untouched wilderness. North Cascades Elopement Guide
No matter where you choose, Washington’s breathtaking landscapes provide the ultimate adventure for couples wanting a stress-free, nature-inspired wedding.
Best Time of Year to Elope in Washington State
Now, you might be thinking, "I thought it always rains in Washington." Let us bust this myth for you! It's true that Washington weather can be moody (which honestly makes your photos even more dramatic), but our summers are fantastic! From early July to late August, we only experience a few short days of rain. By September, when mornings and nights start to cool down, the days remain warm, making it perfect for hiking.
Summer
Late June to early September
Pros: Warm temperatures, lush greenery, and longer daylight hours make summer a popular time for elopements. This season is ideal for hiking enthusiasts who want to explore high-elevation mountain trails.
Cons: Summer can be busier, and popular locations may have more visitors. It’s advisable to plan and book in advance to secure your preferred spot.
Best Summer Locations in Washington
Mount Baker/Artist Point
North Cascades National Park
Mount Rainier National Park
Olympic National Park
Mount St Helens
Fall
Late September to November
Pros: Fall brings a stunning array of colors as foliage changes, creating a picturesque backdrop for your elopement. The temperatures are still comfortable, and the crowds tend to thin out, offering a more private experience.
Cons: The weather can become more unpredictable in late fall, with a higher chance of rain. However, the moody atmosphere can add a unique touch to your photos.
Best Fall Locations in Washington
Mount Baker/Artist Point
North Cascades National Park
Mount Rainier National Park
Winter
December to March
Pros: If you're seeking a snowy wonderland, winter in Washington can be enchanting. Snow-covered landscapes, serene surroundings, and fewer crowds create a magical and intimate setting.
Cons: Winter weather in Washington can be chilly and wet. Ensure you're prepared for the cold, and keep in mind that some mountainous areas may be less accessible due to snow and road conditions.
Best Winter Locations in Washington
Mount Baker/Artist Point
Mount Rainier National Park
Olympic National Park
Leavenworth/Highway 2
Snoqualmie Pass
Spring
April to early June
Pros: Spring brings the awakening of nature, with blooming flowers in eastern Washington and vibrant greenery across the state. The weather starts to improve, with milder temperatures. This is a great time for couples who are looking for spring wildflowers.
Cons: Early spring can still have lingering winter conditions, and many high elevation trails remain closed due to snow. Checking local conditions and being flexible with plans will help you overcome these potential challenges.
Best Spring Locations in Washington
Wenatchee
Deception Pass
Snoqualmie Pass
Olympic National Park
Palouse Falls
Columbia River Gorge
The ideal time for your adventure depends on the scenery and activities you envision for your special day. If you're an avid hiker eager to visit Washington’s most iconic trails, we highly recommend planning between late July and late September.
Prefer a snowy backdrop without the harsh winter temperatures? May through June is your sweet spot. To help you decide, we’ve outlined our favorite locations along with the best seasons to experience them below.
Best Elopement Spots in Washington State
Washington’s diverse landscapes make it an incredible place to elope, offering everything from lush forests and towering mountains to rugged coastlines and desert scenery. If you’re dreaming of a forest elopement, the mossy trails of Olympic National Park or Snoqualmie Pass provide an intimate, enchanted feel.
For breathtaking mountain views, Mount Rainier and the North Cascades offer epic backdrops with alpine lakes and wildflowers. If the idea of waves crashing nearby excites you, a coastal elopement along the cliffs and beaches of the Olympic Peninsula is perfect.
And for something totally unique, the rolling dunes and golden hues of Eastern Washington’s desert landscapes create a stunning, off-the-beaten-path experience.
Washington State Mountain Elopement Spots
North Cascades National Park
Known for its dramatic mountain peaks, deep valleys, and crystal-clear lakes, North Cascades National Park offers an alpine paradise for adventurous couples. It's perfect for couples who want to embrace rugged wilderness and breathtaking views.
Artist Point/Mount Baker
This iconic spot at the base of Mount Baker offers sweeping panoramic views, especially during the summer when wildflowers blanket the area. Artist Point is a great choice for those wanting a dramatic yet accessible mountain elopement.
How to get married at Artist Point | Guide
Mount Rainier National Park
A classic destination for elopements, Mount Rainier National Park boasts stunning alpine meadows, wildflowers, and views of the towering mountain. Whether you want to say your vows at sunrise or sunset, this park offers a variety of scenic locations to make your ceremony unforgettable.
Olympic National Park
Home to diverse landscapes, including mountain ranges, alpine lakes, and lush forests, Olympic National Park is a versatile destination for couples looking for a secluded mountain setting with various breathtaking backdrops.
Snoqualmie Pass
Located just a short drive from Seattle, Snoqualmie Pass offers stunning mountain views, perfect for couples seeking an accessible yet beautiful location. The nearby forests and meadows make it a perfect spot for a more intimate, nature-filled elopement.
Leavenworth/Highway 2
Nestled in the Cascade Mountains, Leavenworth offers a European-inspired village surrounded by stunning mountain views. It's ideal for couples who want a mix of a charming town with mountain vistas for their elopement.
Washington Forest Elopement Spots
Olympic National Park
With its ancient, moss-draped trees, dense forests, and scenic trails, Olympic National Park is a dream destination for forest elopements. The park offers both secluded and vibrant spots, whether you’re looking for a lush rain forest or serene woodlands.
Snoqualmie Pass
In addition to its mountain views, Snoqualmie Pass is home to gorgeous forests that make it perfect for an intimate forest elopement. The nearby trails and secluded spots provide a peaceful, nature-filled atmosphere.
Mt Rainier National Park
Although Mount Rainier is most famous for it’s sweeping views of its volcano, the lower elevation trails offer stunning evergreen forest locations.
Washington Coast Elopement Spots
Olympic Peninsula
With its dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and stunning sea stacks, the Olympic Coast offers a truly unique backdrop for coastal elopements. This area is perfect for couples wanting a mix of beach and rugged coastline.
Orca Islands
If you're seeking an intimate and off-the-beaten-path coastal elopement, the Orca Islands in the San Juans are a perfect choice. You’ll have the chance to exchange vows surrounded by wildlife, ocean views, and secluded beaches.
Deception Pass State Park
Known for its breathtaking views of Deception Pass and its iconic bridge, this state park offers a mix of rocky beaches, lush forests, and dramatic cliffs—perfect for couples looking for a stunning coastal setting.
Cape Disappointment
Located at the southernmost tip of Washington, Cape Disappointment offers wild ocean views, rugged cliffs, and a peaceful atmosphere. It's an ideal spot for couples wanting to elope along the rugged coastline, surrounded by natural beauty.
Washington Desert Elopement Spots
Ancient Lakes State Park
For couples looking for a more unique, desert landscape, Ancient Lakes State Park provides a striking mix of cliffs, lakes, and grassy terrain. Its remote setting offers the perfect atmosphere for an adventurous elopement.
Palouse Falls State Park
Home to the stunning Palouse Falls, this state park offers a desert landscape mixed with dramatic water features, creating an incredible spot for couples who want to elope amidst unique scenery.
Wenatchee
Known for its dry, sunny climate and beautiful vistas, Wenatchee offers an expansive desert landscape, perfect for a minimalist, desert-inspired elopement. The surrounding hills and orchards add to the beauty of this spot. On top of that, it’s one of the best locations in WA state to see wildflowers in April/May.
Best Washington State Micro Wedding Venues
Looking for the perfect place to host a reception after your adventure-filled elopement or planning a micro wedding with 30-50 guests? Washington State offers a variety of stunning venues that cater to smaller, more intimate weddings, allowing you to celebrate with your closest friends and family in breathtaking locations. Whether you want a rustic barn, a cozy winery, or a scenic mountaintop venue, Washington has something special for your micro wedding.
Check out our blog for a curated list of the best micro wedding venues in Washington State—places that combine elegance, charm, and natural beauty to create the perfect setting for your unforgettable celebration!
Washington Elopement Laws: What you need to know
Eloping in Washington State is a beautiful way to celebrate your love, and the good news is that the legal requirements for an elopement are simple and straightforward. Here's what you need to know about Washington's elopement laws to ensure your day goes smoothly and legally:
Washington Marriage License Requirements
To elope in Washington, you’ll need to apply for a marriage license from any County Auditor's office in the state. Here are the key requirements:
No Residency Requirement: You don’t need to be a Washington resident to get married here. Couples from out of state can easily elope in Washington.
Age Requirement: Both parties must be at least 18 years old to marry without parental consent. If either of you is under 18, you’ll need parental and judicial consent to marry.
Identification: Both individuals need a valid photo ID, such as a passport or driver's license. Birth certificates and social security numbers are not required, but if you're under 18, additional paperwork may be needed.
Waiting Period: You must obtain your license at least 3 days before your ceremony, as it isn’t valid for use until then—so be sure to plan accordingly.
License Validity: Once issued, your marriage license is valid for 60 days, so you must have your ceremony and file it within that time frame.
Do I need an Officiant to get Married in Washington State?
In Washington, you have several options for who can legally officiate your ceremony:
Ordained Ministers: Ministers who are ordained, whether in a religious or secular capacity, can officiate your ceremony.
Judges or Justices of the Peace: Judges, court commissioners, or justices of the peace are also authorized to officiate weddings.
Friends or Family Members: Washington allows for officiants to be designated for the ceremony by the couple. If you prefer a friend or family member to officiate, they can become a registered officiant through the Washington Secretary of State’s office.
How many Witnesses do I need for my Washington Elopement?
For your Washington elopement, you need two witnesses. You can either bring friends or family members, or if you prefer, let your vendors or even nearby hikers sign off as witnesses.
Filing Your Marriage License
After your ceremony, your officiant will file the marriage license with the county where it was issued. Once it's processed, you’ll receive your official marriage certificate, which you can use for name changes and other legal processes.
Permits & Passes
For each area in Washington State, a different permit is required for a wedding ceremony. These permits range anywhere from $0 to $300 depending on your location and group size. In addition to your ceremony permit, you are also required to have a Northwest Forest Pass, Discovery Pass, or an America the Beautiful pass, again depending on the location. But if you are an avid Washington hiker, you probably already have one of these passes in your car.
All inclusive Elopement Packages Washington State
At Running Wild, we believe that elopements should be stress-free, unforgettable, and tailored to your unique love story. That’s why we offer All-Inclusive Elopement Packages in Washington State, designed to handle every detail of your day, from the moment you start planning to the final toast. Our packages are ideal for couples looking for an effortless experience, whether you're planning an intimate mountain ceremony or a laid-back beachside celebration.
How much does it Cost to Elope in Washington State?
This varies. We see couples spend anywhere from $8k all the way up to $20k depending on what they incorporate and plan into their day. Want to see a breakdown of the average elopement cost with us? Read this blog: How much does eloping cost?
What’s Included in Our All-Inclusive Elopement Packages:
Custom Planning & Coordination: We provide full planning services to bring your vision to life. From finding the perfect location to assisting with logistics, we handle all the details to ensure a seamless day. We also offer day-of coordination based on your group size, so you can relax and focus on what truly matters.
Location Scouting: Whether you're dreaming of a mountaintop ceremony, a lush forest, or a coastal elopement, we help you choose the perfect spot in Washington State that matches your style and personality.
Permits & Paperwork: Many locations in Washington require permits for elopements, especially in national parks and other protected areas. We’ll handle all the paperwork to make sure your ceremony runs smoothly and legally.
Officiant Services: If you don’t have an officiant, no problem. All Running Wild Team members are ordained and can sign off on your marriage license.
Photography & Videography: Capture every moment with our professional photographers and videographers. Our team is experienced in shooting elopements in a variety of stunning locations and lighting conditions to ensure your memories are beautifully preserved.
Our all-inclusive elopement packages take the stress out of planning, so you can enjoy every moment of your day, knowing that every detail has been thoughtfully handled. Let us help you create a personalized and unforgettable elopement experience in beautiful Washington State.
