How to Elope in Columbia River Gorge
You’re dreaming of a wedding day that feels more like an adventure than an event with less pressure, more presence. The Columbia River Gorge might be the spot for you. Picture waterfalls tucked into mossy forests, scenic overlooks that stop you in your tracks, and quiet trails that lead to the kind of wonder you can feel in your chest.
This guide walks you through how to elope in the Columbia River Gorge, from what to expect, where to go, how to plan it, and why this place is one of the most awe-inspiring places in the PNW to start forever with your person.
Here’s what you’ll find in this guide:
- Best Time to Elope in Columbia River Gorge
- Best Ceremony Spots
- Traveling to Columbia River Gorge
- Airbnbs & Unique Stays
- Fun Elopement Day Activities
- Legal + Permit Information Made Easy
- How Much Does it Cost to Elope Here
- What to Pack for Your Elopement
- Sample Columbia River Gorge Elopement Timeline
- Columbia River Gorge Elopement Packages
The Best Time to Elope in Columbia River Gorge
Time of Year
The Gorge is beautiful year-round, and picking the best time of year for your elopement depends on your vision for the day! Spring through fall is a great time to elope here. Spring months bring beautiful wildflowers, and fall is, of course, famous for the foliage.
Winters here can be icy, but it is magical for winter lovers!
Time of Day
Much like the time of year, picking the perfect time of day all depends on your priorities for your elopement ceremony. For the best time of day, consider sunrise to beat the crowds, especially during the busy summer months. There’s something so peaceful and serene about starting your day with the first light of dawn.
Time of Week
Eloping on a weekday offers lower crowd levels, even during peak seasons. I recommend a midweek date for any elopement, 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 and 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.
Traveling for Your Columbia River Gorge Elopement
If you and your partner are traveling from out of state, I recommend flying into Portland International Airport (PDX). From there, it’s just a short drive to the Gorge. Renting a car is highly recommended so you can explore the various locations at your own pace.
The Best Ceremony Locations in Columbia River Gorge
Wahlcella Falls
Tucked away on a relatively short and magical trail, Wahclella Falls is one of the most enchanting spots in the Columbia River Gorge. The trail follows Tanner Creek through a lush, mossy canyon before ending at the powerful two-tiered waterfall cascading into a turquoise pool. It’s a peaceful and intimate spot for vows, especially on a weekday morning when the light is soft and the trail is quiet.
Eagle Creek Picnic Shelter
If you’re dreaming of a forest elopement that blends privacy with accessibility, the historic Eagle Creek Picnic Shelter might be your perfect match. Surrounded by towering evergreens and steps from the trailhead, this rustic stone-and-timber shelter feels straight out of a fairytale. You can say your vows beneath the trees, then explore the nearby trails or picnic with your favorite people under the open-air canopy.
Government Cove
Government Cove is one of the easier-accessible locations in the area. This little peninsula offers awesome views of the river and the surrounding cliffs. The rugged landscape and water views provide a perfect backdrop for your ceremony and all the photos!
Cascade Locks
Cascade Locks is a charming town nestled on the edge of the Gorge, right on the Columbia River. With a marina, riverside parks, and easy access to scenic hikes and bridges, this location has the best of both worlds – natural beauty and the convenience of being a small town. It’s a perfect base for a weekend elopement, especially if you’re bringing a few guests and want to keep things relaxed but scenic.
Thunder Island Brewing
Want to celebrate your love with local beer and stunning views? Thunder Island Brewing Co. in Cascade Locks offers riverfront vibes, mountain backdrops, and a super fun, laid-back atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot for a post-ceremony toast (or a casual reception!) with your closest people. And if you’re eloping just the two of you, you can grab a pint and watch the sun dip behind the cliffs together.
Hood River
Hood River is a lively town with gorgeous mountain views and tons of outdoor activities. Whether you’re into kite boarding, wine tasting, or hiking, this place really has it all. The downtown area is also very charming, with lots of shops and cafes.
And if you’ve chosen to explore Hood River for your elopement, I recommend driving through the Hood River Fruit Loop. Here, you’ll find 30 on-the-farm fruit stands, wineries, breweries, and beautiful flower fields!
The Ruins at Hood River
The Ruins is a wildly cool and unique wedding venue in the heart of Hood River. Set in an actual old cannery building, it’s full of character with exposed brick, industrial windows, twinkle lights, and open-air charm. If you’re eloping with a few guests or planning an intimate celebration with a bold, artsy vibe, this spot blends urban edge with Columbia Gorge beauty.
And, of course, it is also walkable to downtown Hood River, which means good food, local beer, and river views are right at your fingertips. Plus, the Hood River Hotel is a great place to stay and get ready very close to the venue!
Latourell Falls
Latourell Falls is one of the most accessible and stunning waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge. The striking, single-drop waterfall plunges over 200 feet, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring backdrop for your ceremony. It is also the third tallest waterfall in Oregon. The area is surrounded in lush, moss-covered trees and ferns, giving a magical forest atmosphere. If you hike the 2 mile loop trail, you can also visit Upper Latourell Falls. There is also a viewpoint of the Columbia River and landscape that makes up the Gorge.
Horsetail Falls
Horsetail Falls is named for its unique shape, resembling a horse’s tail. This waterfall is right off the Historic Columbia River Highway, so it’s super accessible. The hike is short but rather steep, so you should definitely have proper footwear.
Rowena Crest
Rowena Crest offers some of the best views in the Columbia River Gorge. The lookout gives you sweeping views of the river and hills, which look especially amazing at sunrise or sunset. This place is particularly beautiful in spring when the wildflowers are in full bloom!
Feeling inspired by the Gorge? I’d love to help you plan an elopement here that’s laid back, scenic, and totally you. Reach out to get started!
The Best Places to Stay in the Columbia River Gorge Area
These are some of my favorite Airbnbs in the area!
White Salmon, WA, Private Cabin
If you’re dreaming of waking up to mountain views and sipping coffee on a quiet porch, this sweet Columbia River Gorge cabin might just steal your heart. Tucked above a family ranch in the Husum Valley, this cozy custom-built home looks straight out at Mt. Hood and feels worlds away, even though it’s just a short drive to White Salmon and Hood River.
The wraparound porch is ideal for BBQs, cocktails at sunset, or just soaking in that golden hour light from the handcrafted black walnut bar. Inside, you’ll find thoughtful touches like an oversized clawfoot tub (yes, big enough for two!), board games, and farm-fresh eggs in season.
Cottage in Mosier
For a truly magical stay, consider booking the Hobbit House on Dragonfly Knoll. This unique storybook home is nestled high on a hill overlooking a serene pond, where you can watch birds, deer, and wild turkeys from the large circular moon door. Relax on the veranda, take a dip in the wooden barrel hot tub, or explore the 27-acre woods. Inside, cozy up in the bed nook with a Tolkien book by the glass mosaic fireplace. Despite its secluded feel in an evergreen forest, this fantasy getaway is just minutes away from world-class hiking, biking, dining, wine tasting, and breweries.
You can even check it out on YouTube!
Home in Troutdale
This is a modern cabin along the Sandy River in Troutdale, OR. The large windows fill the space with natural light, letting you enjoy the stunning views of the glacier-fed river and surrounding forest even from the comfort of the couch. This updated cabin offers river access, a spacious deck with a hot tub, and all the wonders of the Gorge at your fingertips. Plus, it’s pet-friendly, so you can bring your pups with you!
Chalet in Cascade Locks
For a cozy and quiet escape, consider this modern mountain home nestled in the heart of the Gorge. The living room features a wall of windows overlooking the forest, perfect for bird watching or curling up next to the woodstove fire while watching the snowfall. The large windows offer beautiful forest and mountain views, filling the home with refreshing natural light. Enjoy deck dining with views of birds, deer, and sometimes even elk grazing in the deeper part of the woods.
Home in Mount Hood Parkdale
For a blend of urban design and natural surroundings, consider renting this Hood River home. Set on a beautiful 1.8-acre wooded and open property along Neal Creek, the home offers a peaceful forested view with the creek just a short walk away. Nearby, you’ll find Upper Valley Laurence Lake, Lost Lake, and the Columbia River, making it a great base for windsurfing, mountain biking, kayaking, golfing, skiing, hiking, and fishing. Downtown Hood River boasts historic buildings, a bustling shopping district with boutiques, designer shops, outdoor adventure gear, antique shops, art galleries, and over 30 restaurants.
Cabin in Hood River
This cabin is just an hour from Portland and minutes from historic downtown. Here, you’ll be perfectly situated to enjoy the Columbia River Valley’s stunning beauty, endless scenic hikes, craft breweries, and bustling shopping district. The cabin features a private backyard with outdoor furniture, a BBQ grill, a beautiful garden where guests can enjoy fresh fruit and produce, a serene pond, and plenty of benches and chairs near the creek. Plus, there’s a fire pit and onsite parking for your convenience.
Skamania
I couldn’t write this list without including Skamania. While it’s not an Airbnb, it’s an amazing place to stay if you’re into tree houses and glamping! This is a beautiful option for your elopement, and you could stay here for longer and enjoy a mini honeymoon!
Columbia River Gorge Elopement Activity Ideas
There’s no shortage of fun things to do in the Gorge! Here’s a list of some of my suggestions:
- Go wine tasting – check out The Gorge White House, Mt Hood Winery, or WY’East Vineyards.
- Visit the local breweries – Everybody’s Brewing, Walking Man Brewing, Double Mountain Brewery or Freebridge Brewing.
- I mentioned this earlier, but go on a road trip through Hood River Fruit Loop and check out loads of local farm goods, wines, brews, and flower fields (if they are blooming).
- Try kiteboarding, paddleboarding, or kayaking on the Columbia River.
- Hit the trails on a mountain bike.
- Go hiking and check out scenic trails with breathtaking views and waterfalls.
- Enjoy a romantic styled picnic!
- Take a tour of the waterfalls and breweries with Martin’s Gorge Tours!
Your elopement day deserves more than just a ceremony. Adding activities isn’t about cramming your timeline! It’s about including and doing things that make you feel the happiest as you celebrate one of the best days of your life. And if you’d like even more insight on this, check out my favorite elopement activity ideas + how to choose yours!
How to Officially Elope in Columbia River Gorge
Marriage License
Depending on your exact elopement location, you may need to apply for a marriage license in Oregon or Washington. The process is very similar for both states.
You and your partner can grab your marriage license at any County Clerk’s Office in Oregon or Washington. I recommend visiting the one closest to your elopement location. Before your visit, fill out the marriage license application online. Both states have a three-day waiting period before a ceremony can occur after a license is issued! So, be sure to visit the relevant County Clerk’s Office on a weekday, at least three days before your elopement ceremony. There’s a one-time license fee ($60 in Oregon or $72 in Washington), and you and your partner will need to provide government-issued identification at the time of your visit. Two witnesses and an officiant must be present during the ceremony to make the marriage official! If you need help finding an officiant and witnesses, I can assist with that process as your elopement photographer!
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 without a marriage license, say your vows, and then worry about the legalities later if you so choose!
Do You Need a Permit to Elope in Columbia River Gorge?
As long as you are eloping just the two of you or with a small group of loved ones present you do not need any permits to elope here. However, if you’d like to plan a bigger wedding of more than 75 people, you’ll need to apply for a permit.
You can learn more about the legalities of eloping in Columbia River Gorge here! If you’re considering Multnomah Falls, there is a timed-use entry permit system in place. You can learn more about that here! However, many spots and waterfalls can be accessed without a permit.
Permits and planning feel overwhelming? I’ve got you. As your elopement photographer, I will assist you with all the logistics, so you can simply show up and enjoy the day. See what’s included in my elopement packages!
How Much Does it Cost to Elope in Columbia River Gorge
Most couples spend anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000+ for a full elopement experience in the Gorge. That usually covers your photographer (hey, that’s me!), travel and lodging, permits, florals, food, and any fun extras you want to include. Some spots in the Gorge do require special use permits, but I help guide you through all of that so nothing’s missed. Whether you’re planning something simple and soulful or a full-day adventure with a few guests, we can build a day that fits your vision and your budget.
Columbia River Gorge Packing List
While planning your elopement, make sure to list 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
- 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
- Backpack(s)
- Rain Jacket
- Jacket
- Warm Layers
- Hand Warmers
- Gloves/Mittens
- Headlamps
- Umbrellas
- Blanket
Sample Columbia River Gorge Elopement Timeline
4:30 AM – Photo coverage begins with getting ready photos & detail shots at your Airbnb
6:00 AM – Head to the Ceremony spot & take Sunrise portraits.
7:00 AM – Intimate vow exchange!
7:30 AM – Picnic breakfast
10:30 AM – Take a mid-day break.
3:30 PM – Get in the jeep and go on a road trip through Hood River Fruit Loop
7:00 PM – Private Sunset portraits at a waterfall.
8:30 PM – Catered dinner at Airbnb.
9:30 PM – Get in a hot tub and enjoy an evening together with steamy photos and stargazing.
10:30 PM – Photo coverage ends.
Follow the Leave No Trace Principles
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 Oregon or anywhere in the world, be sure to respect the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace so that the natural beauty can stay wild and pristine for generations to come:
- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
- Dispose of Waste Properly
- Leave What You Find
- Minimize Campfire Impacts
- Respect Wildlife
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors
Let’s Plan Your Columbia River Gorge Elopement Together!
You don’t need to have it all figured out. That’s what I’m here for. Hi, I’m Erica, and I’m your Oregon and PNW elopement photographer!
From scouting the perfect waterfall spot to building a stress-free timeline that flows with your day, I’ll help you create an elopement experience that feels like you. You’ll get support with everything from permits to backup plans, and yep, I’ll be there capturing every moment that matters.
Let’s start planning something unforgettable together! Check out my 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!
