Are you planning to elope in one of the most breathtaking spots in the Pacific Northwest? Olympic National Park is home to beautiful mountains, waterfalls, rainforests, and rugged coastlines and beaches, offering you endless possibilities for adventure and epic backdrops for your elopement. 

In this guide, I’ll discuss everything you need to know to plan your Olympic National Park elopement, from the best times of year to avoid the crowds to the best locations and adventure ideas to make your day unforgettable and more!

Why Elope in Olympic National Park?

Olympic National Park is a dream destination for couples looking for a stunning, adventurous, and deeply personal elopement experience. Here, you’ll find an incredible diversity of landscapes, from moss-covered rainforests to rugged coastlines and mountain views. 

You can exchange your vows under towering trees in the Hoh Rainforest, or perhaps with the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean at Ruby Beach, or on a mountaintop at Hurricane Ridge without needing to take a long hike. Olympic National Park truly has some of the most epic views in the country. Plus, it’s beautiful all through the year, whether you’re drawn to summer wildflowers or winter’s misty forests.

The Best Time to Elope in Olympic NP

Time of Year

The great thing about eloping in ONP is that many areas are still accessible all through the year, even Hurricane Ridge because it is a ski area.

Summer offers the best weather, with more sunny days and less chance of rain. However, it’s also the most crowded. The park is huge, so we can always work around that and find a more intimate spot. Winter is great for a moody vibe; however, be prepared for road closures and colder weather.

The shoulder seasons are also a good choice because they bring fewer crowds, but you’re more likely to have rain to contend with.

By the way, if you’re worried about having “bad weather” on your elopement, you will enjoy this guide!

Time of Day

Much like the time of year, picking the perfect time of day all depends on your priorities for your elopement ceremony. Eloping at Sunrise can be more secluded, with an increased chance for better weather and magical lighting like “alpenglow” on east-facing locations. Sunset can also be secluded, and while the weather may be more unpredictable in the evenings during certain times of the year, it’ll be warmer, and you and your partner get to sleep in. If you can’t decide on a time of day, you can always choose a full-day elopement package and do both Sunrise and Sunset!

Time of Week

Eloping on a weekday offers lower crowd levels, even during peak seasons. I recommend a midweek date for any elopement in Washington, no matter the time of year, but especially if you’re visiting during Summer. Parking lots fill up quickly and add an extra level of unnecessary stress. Traffic can also be problematic during weekends around cities like Seattle and in popular sightseeing areas. As a bonus, if you’re trying to book a high-demand vendor or accommodation, they’re more likely to have availability on a weekday than a weekend.

Olympic National Park Entrances

Olympic National Park has several entrances that give access to different parts of the park. Figuring out your elopement location and which entrance you’d need to take can also help you figure out the best place to stay and how to get here. You don’t need to stay in or near the park – you can stay in a larger nearby city like Port Angeles or Forks, for example.

Here are some of the entrances:

• Hurricane Ridge Entrance (near Port Angeles) – best for mountain views and hiking!
• Lake Crescent Entrance (near Port Angeles) – best for lake views, kayaking and hiking!
• Elwha River Valley Entrance (near Port Angeles) – best for quiet hikes through a lush forest and exploring the Elwha ecosystem.
• Hoh Rainforest Entrance (near Forks) – best for being surrounded by one of the lushest rainforests in the U.S.!
• Sol Duc Entrance (near Forks) – best if you want to visit hot springs, and waterfalls and take a scenic hike!
• Heart O’ the Hills Entrance (south of the main visitor center in Port Angeles) – this is one of the best for mountain views and gives great access to the park’s alpine areas.

There are also three smaller access points that lead to Rialto Beach, Kalaloch Beach, and the Quinault Rainforest area. Ozette, Mora, and Kalaloch are nearer to Forks and offer great locations for coastal elopement.

How to Get to Olympic National Park

It isn’t difficult to get to Olympic Park, but it depends on which part of the park you’re aiming to visit (see the entrance section above!)

By Plane: The nearest major airport is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), about 2-3 hours from Olympic National Park by car. You can also fly into smaller regional airports like William R. Fairchild International Airport (in Port Angeles) if you want to get closer to the park faster.

By Car: From Seattle, it’s about a 2-3 hour drive to the park’s various entrances. The park is spread out, so your exact drive time will depend on which area you’re heading to. For example, Lake Crescent and Hurricane Ridge are closer to the Port Angeles entrance, while the Hoh Rainforest and Kalaloch Beach are better accessed via the southern or western entrances.

Pro Tip: Ferry Routes—If you’re traveling from Seattle, consider taking a ferry across Puget Sound to avoid any traffic and enjoy a scenic ride. The ferries run regularly and can be something extra to add to your elopement adventure!

You can check out more about the directions here!

10 Olympic National Park Elopement Locations

Hurricane Ridge

Hurricane Ridge offers panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and is accessible year-round, even in winter, thanks to a small ski and snowshoe area. In summer, the ridge is full of wildflowers, and the sunsets here are stunning. This spot is great for couples who want those epic mountain views without hiking for miles. 

Lake Crescent

Known for its clear blue water, Lake Crescent is surrounded by lush forest and offers a peaceful, lakeside setting. You can also incorporate nearby Marymere Falls for a forest-and-waterfall combo. This location is accessible year-round!

Check out Nicole and John’s Lake Crescent elopement for inspiration!

Hoh Rainforest

The Hoh Rainforest is one of the park’s most popular spots, with moss-covered trees and dense, misty woods. It’s perfect for couples who want a lush, green backdrop. Be prepared for some rain, no matter when you visit! It’s open year-round, but expect rain and mud at all times.

Rialto Beach

For couples dreaming of a dramatic, rugged coastline, Rialto Beach is perfect. With its sea stacks, driftwood, and tide pools, it offers that quintessential PNW beach vibe. Make sure to check the tides before planning your ceremony to ensure safe access to the beach. It’s also accessible all year round, but summer and early fall will be the best weather.

Kalaloch & Ruby Beach 

Another beach elopement favorite with easier access. Located further south, these beaches are more secluded than Rialto. Kalaloch offers cabins and a lodge nearby, making it ideal if you want to stay close to your ceremony spot. Ruby Beach features iconic sea stacks and a wilder feel, making it perfect for adventurous couples. Open year-round, but watch for tides and rain during fall and winter.

Sol Duc Falls & Valley

Sol Duc is a favorite for those who want waterfalls! The falls are a short, scenic hike from the parking area and provide a dramatic backdrop. The valley itself is also stunning, offering lots of greenery and riverside spots. Best in spring through fall, when the trails are more accessible .

Marymere Falls

A quick hike from the shores of Lake Crescent, Marymere Falls is a great waterfall option for those who want something easy to reach but still dramatic. It’s a forested area with lots of shade, making it great for mid-day ceremonies. It’s also available all through the year, but summer has the best trail conditions.

Madison Falls

A bit of a hidden gem, this small but beautiful waterfall is just a short walk from the parking lot, making it one of the most accessible spots in the park. It’s perfect for an intimate, quiet ceremony. It’s also accessible all year round!

Elwha River Valley

For couples wanting riverside views, Elwha River Valley is full of trails, bridges, and peaceful forest settings. It’s a great off-the-beaten-path spot, so you’re likely to have more privacy here. This area is accessible most of the year, though some trails may be snow-covered in winter.

Quinault Rainforest

Slightly less famous than Hoh but just as stunning, Quinault offers towering trees and a quieter experience. It’s a perfect spot for couples who want a rainforest elopement without the crowds. The Quinault Loop Trail is a favorite for its scenery. And the same as with Hoh, expect rain all year round here!

Places to Stay in the Area

Port Angeles Guest House

Located on the Olympic Peninsula and just under 15 minutes from Olympic National Park, this Port Angeles Guest House is the perfect place to unwind and relax after a long day spent adventuring. Providing everything from beach blankets to board games, this accommodation is simple yet breathtaking, with beautiful water views of nearby Freshwater Bay.

Coastland Camp Tiny Home

This Washington State elopement guide wouldn’t be complete without a recommendation for accommodation in one of Washington’s most famous small towns, Forks. Full of friendly locals (and lots of Twilight memorabilia), Forks is centrally located to some of Washington’s best beaches like Rialto, Ruby, and La Push. This tiny home in Coastland Camp is a cozy, romantic getaway with a unique, wood-fired outdoor hot tub.

Lake Quinault Lodge

Nestled along the shores of Lake Quinault, the Lake Quinault Lodge offers the perfect mix of rustic charm and modern comfort. It’s close to hiking trails and waterfalls, and it also offers a spa – perfect to relax after spending the day exploring! Enjoy a quiet evening by the fire or take in the stunning lake views from the comfort of your room, it’s a great place to stay in ONP.

Lake Quinault Lodge also has rooms available for pets!

Lake Crescent Lodge

Located on the shores of Lake Crescent, this historic lodge offers timeless beauty and an inviting atmosphere. With breathtaking views of the crystal-clear lake and towering mountains, Lake Crescent Lodge is the perfect spot to unwind after a day of adventuring. Whether you want to sip coffee on the porch, go fishing, take a leisurely paddle on the lake, or go on a hike, there are plenty of ways to spend your time here!

Lake Crescent Lodge has pet-friendly rooms available too!

Kalaloch Lodge

Perched above the rugged, picturesque shores of the Pacific Ocean, Kalaloch Lodge offers a secluded retreat with incredible coastal views. It’s just minutes from the iconic Kalaloch Beach and the famous Tree of Life! With cozy cabins and beachfront rooms, you can fall asleep to the sound of crashing waves and wake up to the stunning beauty of Washington’s coastline right at your doorstep.

How to Legally Elope in Olympic National Park

Marriage License

You and your partner can grab your marriage license at any County Clerk’s Office nearest your elopement location! Before visiting, fill out the marriage license application online. Once a marriage license is issued, Washington State requires a three-day waiting period before a ceremony can occur. So, be sure to visit a County Clerk’s Office of your choosing on a weekday, at least three days before your elopement ceremony. A one-time license fee is typically around $70, and you and your partner will both need to be present to provide government-issued identifications at the time of your visit. 

To make the marriage official, two witnesses and an officiant must be present during the ceremony. The ceremony must also take place within 60 days once the three-day waiting period has passed. After the ceremony, the signed marriage license needs to be turned in to the County Clerk’s Office you received it from within 30 days of your ceremony!

Commitment Ceremony

One of the many beautiful things about eloping is that you and your partner can customize your ceremony to be whatever you want! While some couples choose to get a marriage license before their elopement day, many don’t! It’s totally fine to get married in Washington State without a marriage license. Say private vows, celebrate with one another, and then worry about the legalities later!

Secure Your Olympic National Park Elopement Permits

You will need to get a permit to elope in Olympic National Park! Here’s more information and how to apply for the special use permit! But a permit is not needed if it’s going to be just you both, your photographer, and the officiant (so up to 5 people). As your elopement photographer, I’ll help you secure permits once we decide on a location together!

Also, entrance into the Olympic National Park costs $30 per vehicle. For $55, you can opt to purchase an annual pass instead! 

Can You Bring Your Dog?

Your pup is only allowed on the following trails, according to the National Park website:

• Peabody Creek Trail (Olympic National Park Visitor Center in Port Angeles)
• Rialto Beach parking lot to Ellen Creek (1/2 mile)
• The beaches between the Hoh and Quinault Reservations (Kalaloch area)
• Madison Falls Trail (Elwha)
• Spruce Railroad Trail (North shore of Lake Crescent)
• July Creek Loop Trail (North shore of Lake Quinault)

As you can see, the areas where you can bring your dog in such a vast park are rather limited, however, if that is important to you – you have some options! And if you do bring your fur baby, you need to follow the rules, like ensuring you bag their waste, they are always on a leash, and that you all respect the wildlife!

Elopement Activities in Olympic National Park

There are tons of things to do in and around Olympic National Park, both inside the park and in the nearby cities!

• Hiking – there are so many beautiful places to explore ALL over the park, with trails ranging from easier walks to more strenuous ones. 
• Wildlife watching.
• Water activities – Lake Crescent is great for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding.
• Go fishing, particularly at Lake Quinault and Elwha River,
• Visit the Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort.
• With low light pollution in many parts of the park, stargazing at Hurricane Ridge or other remote areas can be absolutely stunning on a clear night.
• If you’re a fan of the Twilight series, you can take a self-guided tour around Forks!
• Go waterfall hunting and find the waterfalls in the area.
• If you’re eloping in the winter, Hurricane Ridge offers snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and even a small downhill ski area.
• Go beachcombing.

This is only a small list of things you could do, but if you choose me as your elopement photographer, I’m happy to make custom recommendations based on what you’d love to do and see!

Olympic National Park Elopement Packing List

While planning your Olympic National Park elopement, make a list of all the items you’ll need to pack for your adventure! Here’s a list of elopement packing essentials to get you started:

• Important travel documents such as IDs and Passports
• Marriage License
• Permits/Timed Entry Reservation
• Water Bottle & Water
• Snacks
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Bug Spray
• Extra Socks
• Boots/Shoes With Good Tread
• Wedding Attire
• Vow Books
• Rings
• Ring Box
• Wedding Attire & Accessories
• Perfume/Cologne
• Makeup & Hair Supplies
• Garment Bags
• Celebratory Drinks 
• Portable Speaker
• Adventure Gear
• First Aid Kit
• Backpack(s)
• Rain jacket
• Jacket 
• Warm layers 
• Hand Warmers
• Gloves/mittens
• Headlamps
• Umbrellas
• Blanket 

Leave No Trace During Your Olympic National Park Elopement

Leave No Trace is a wonderful organization that aims to protect the outdoors by spreading awareness about sustainability practices. When on your epic adventure elopement in Olympic National Park, be sure to respect the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace so that the beauty of this place can stay wild and pristine for generations to come:

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces 
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
4. Leave What You Find
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
6. Respect Wildlife
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

It’s Time To Plan Your Olympic National Park Elopement!

Hi, I’m Erica, a Washington elopement photographer! If you and your partner want to plan an epic elopement, I’m here to capture a day you’ll never forget! Be sure to check out my Olympic National Park elopement packages and contact me via my inquiry form here! I can’t wait to explore the Pacific Northwest while celebrating you and your partner’s beautiful love story!