Nicknamed the “American Alps,” the North Cascades offer some of the Pacific Northwest’s most pristine wilderness landscapes. With over 300 glaciers, 93 named mountains, and two 10,000-foot volcanoes, it’s a favorite destination for adventure elopement couples. Beyond glaciers and volcanoes, the area boasts stunning glacial-fed waterfalls, alpine lakes, and outdoor activities. North Cascades National Park is also one of the best FREE National Parks in the U.S. Whether you’re skiing Mt. Baker during your Winter wedding celebration or saying your vows at Sunrise atop Artist Point, a North Cascades elopement in Washington State will create lasting memories. As a passionate Washington elopement photographer who cherishes sharing the magic of the North Cascades with couples, I’ve written this guide to help you discover the top ceremony locations, accommodations, experiences, and insider tips I’ve gathered over the years! Keep reading to uncover and plan your dream North Cascades elopement!

The Best Time For A North Cascades Elopement

Time of Year

July through October is the best time to elope in the North Cascades! Summer into early Fall is the most popular time to visit the National Park, so expect crowds when visiting popular destinations such as waterfalls and overlooks. If you’re planning a Winter elopement, many trails and roads experience seasonal closures, sometimes as early as Septemeber. If you are dreaming of a winter wonderland elopement in the North Cascades, Mt. Baker Ski Resort is a great option and offers some of the best snowboarding and skiing in the state! 

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 in National Parks like the North Cascades. I recommend a midweek date for any elopement in the North Cascades, no matter the time of year, but especially if you’re visiting during Summer. Parking lots are often small and fill up quickly, adding an unnecessary extra level of stress to your elopement experience. Traffic can also be problematic during weekends on the two-lane roads of the North Cascades National Park.

Lastly, 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 on a weekend. 

Traveling For Your North Cascades Elopement

When visiting North Cascades National Park, I recommend couples fly into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (Sea-Tac) or Bellingham International Airport (BLI). Not only are both airport hubs for well-known airlines such as Alaska and Southwest, but they’re also easy airports to navigate. Sea-Tac is under three hours from the North Cascades, while BLI is about a two-hour drive. 

Since North Cascades National Park is far outside Seattle and Bellingham, I recommend couples rent an SUV. Sea-Tac offers complimentary shuttle rides to off-site rental car companies, and BLI’s rental car pickup and drop-off locations are on-site. Alternatively, you can rent a car for airport pickup through app rental services such as Turo! Seattle and Bellingham traffic can be pretty heavy year-round, so if you plan on flying, be sure to account for time spent navigating traffic!

The Best Ceremony Locations In The North Cascades 

Washington Pass Overlook

Located just off North Cascades Highway (SR 20) near Liberty Bell Mountain, Washington Pass is an overlook area with a large parking lot, restrooms, and a hiking trail. The 0.3-mile trail to the viewpoint makes it a great elopement location for accessibility-friendly celebrations. While the road is closed up to Washington Pass Overlook in Winter, the view from the overlook onto the rugged Cascades Range in Summer and Fall is unmatched! 

Parking Pass/Entry Fee: None

Dog Friendly: Yes, on leash

Open: Seasonally, late Summer – early Fall

Maple Pass Loop

Maple Pass is also located just off North Cascades Highway (SR 20). Situated next to Frisco Mountain, Maple Pass is one of the most incredible trails in the North Cascades! If you and your partner love hiking, you’ll enjoy this 6.5-mile loop that winds around alpine lakes, wildflower meadows, and rugged mountain faces. In Autumn, Fall foliage colors the pass, and snow begins to fall atop the surrounding mountain peaks. The area features a decently sized parking lot and restrooms. This elopement location is best suited for experienced hikers, reaching over 2,000 feet in elevation gain. 

Parking Pass/Entry Fee: Yes, Northwest Forest Pass

Dog Friendly: Yes, on leash

Open: Seasonally, late Summer – early Fall

Thunder Knob

This moderately easy 3.4-mile out-and-back trail runs along Diablo Lake. Thunder Knob is a peaceful elopement location for couples who enjoy hiking and want a more laid-back adventure elopement. Along the trail, there are a few amazing lookout points for the lake. You’ll stroll through a lush forested area of the North Cascades. There is a small parking area near the Thunder Knob Trailhead, so plan to arrive very early if you want to secure a spot! Colonial Creek North Campground is also located nearby and is a great place to stay during your elopement! 

Parking Pass/Entry Fee: None

Dog Friendly: Yes, on leash

Open: Road to trailhead experiences seasonal closure

Heather Meadows

Heather Meadows is one of my favorite Summer elopement locations in the North Cascades. There is so much to do and see here! I recommend couples start their day at the Heather Meadows Visitor Center, which is open from mid-July to Septemeber. The visitor center is full of history and exhibits on local nature and culture. After stopping by the visitor’s center, take some time to explore before you say your vows at one of the many nearby lake locations. The area is surrounded by beautiful wildflower meadows full of huckleberries and mountain blueberries! My favorite lake ceremony locations include Bagley Lakes Trail, Picture Lake, and Chain Lakes Loop. After your lakeside ceremony, you will enjoy a celebratory picnic in the Austin Pass Picnic area! 

Parking Pass/Entry Fee: Yes, Northwest Forest Pass

Dog Friendly: Yes, on leash

Open: Trails – Year Round, Visitor Center – Seasonally

Artist Point

Located near Glacier, Washington, Artist Point is accessible via Mt. Baker Highway (SR 542). At over 5,000 feet in elevation, it soars high above Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, offering panoramic views of Mt. Shuksan and Mt. Baker. Open seasonally from late Summer to early Fall, Artist Point is a popular, dog-friendly destination for hikers, outdoor lovers, families, and elopement couples. Two of my favorite hikes here are Table Mountain Trail and the Huntoon Point via Artist Ridge Trail. Artist Point’s parking area is large but fills up quickly, as this is arguably one of the most popular sightseeing spots in the North Cascades!

Parking Pass/Entry Fee: Yes, Northwest Forest Pass

Dog Friendly: Yes, on leash

Open: Seasonally, late Summer – early Fall

The Best Accommodations In And Around The North Cascades

Mt. Baker Cabin – Deming, Washington 

This cozy cabin is nestled in the beautiful wilderness of Mt. Baker National Forest. Just 25 minutes from Mt. Baker Ski Resort, it offers couples a relaxing retreat to unwind and elevated amenities like a sauna, outdoor hot tub, fire pit, Wi-Fi, and lawn games!

3 beds, 2 baths

The Greybird Retreat – Deming, Washington

Located less than half an hour from Mt. Baker Ski Resort, The Greybird Retreat is a unique, modern cabin just outside Glacier, Washington. Equipped with a hot tub, gourmet kitchen, wood-burning stove, and Wi-Fi, this quiet and serene accommodation is the perfect base camp for relaxing during your skiing or adventure elopement. 

1 bed, 1 bath

WineDown Cabin – Marblemount, Washington

This charming and rustic a-frame was built in the 1970s but recently renovated to include modern luxuries such as Wi-Fi and a fully equipped kitchen. Additionally, the cabin features a fireplace, BBQ grill, and patio decorated with twinkling string lights. Located near a beautiful creek, WineDown Cabin is the perfect home away from home for couples looking for an off-the-grid experience during their North Cascades elopement. 

2 beds, 1 bath

The Best Activities In The North Cascades

From hot air balloon rides to adventurous excursions like whitewater rafting and volcanic exploration, the North Cascades’ vast wilderness is home to many fun and thrilling activities! Here’s a list of some of my favorites:

• Hike Up To The Famous Fire Lookout On Desolation Peak 
• Take A Scenic Drive Along North Cascades Highway
• Spend An Evening Camping Under The Stars
• Ski Or Snowboard At Mt. Baker Ski Resort
• Bike Along Lake Chelan 
• Paddleboard or Kayak On Ross Lake
• See Mountain Goats At Maple Pass
• Experience The Thrill Of Whitewater Rafting On The Skagit River
• Fish For Rainbow Trout In Diablo Lake
• Go For An Epic Mountain Hike Along Sourdough Mountain Trail
• Embark On An Aerial Tour Of The North Cascades 
• Explore The Small, Charming Town Of Stehekin
• Observe One Of the North Cascades Many Waterfalls Like Gorge Creek Falls, Ladder Creek Falls, Racehorse Falls, or Nooksack Falls
• Witness One Of The Park’s 300 Glaciers

How To Officially Elope A North Cascades Elopement

Washington State Marriage License

You and your partner can grab your marriage license at any County Clerk’s Office nearest your elopement location! I recommend visiting Whatcom County or Skagit County for a North Cascades elopement! Before visiting, fill out the marriage license application online or in person at your preferred County Clerk’s office. Once a marriage license is issued, Washington State requires a three-day waiting period before a ceremony can occur. So, be sure to visit your selected County Clerk’s Office 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 need to be present to provide government-issued identifications at the time of your visit. 

Two witnesses and an officiant must be present during the ceremony to make the marriage official. Once the three-day waiting period has passed, the ceremony must take place within 60 days. After the ceremony, the signed marriage license must be turned in to the County Clerk’s Office, from which you received it 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 A Permit Before You Elope In North Cascades National Park

A special use permit is required to elope in North Cascades National Park. The cost for the permit is a non-refundable $50 fee. To apply, you or your partner will need to contact the national park’s Commercial Service Office via email or phone at 360-854-7213. I recommend applying for this permit as soon as possible. Depending on your guest count size, restrictions to ceremony locations may apply. As your elopement photographer, I am happy to assist you in navigating the permit process! 

North Cascades National Park Entrance And Activity Fees

North Cascades National Park does not require a fee to enter. However, some fees apply if you and your partner want to camp, visit a Northwest Forest Pass trailhead, or boat in Lake Chelan. You can learn more about the Park’s fees and passes here!

Work With Local Vendors When You Elope In North Cascades National Park

Hiring high-quality, local elopement vendors can help bring your dream ceremony to life! One of my favorite florists local to the Pacific Northwest is Alexis with The Slow Cult. While hiring amazing local vendors like The Slow Cult isn’t necessary, they will undoubtedly help ease the stress of your big day. If you plan to elope in Washington State, hiring local vendors familiar with North Cascades National Park will ensure your elopement goes off without a hitch! When hiring vendors, research and read reviews, chat with them over the phone, and thoroughly read contracts before signing. If you need help determining which vendors would be the right fit for your celebration, I’m happy to share suggestions with you as your elopement photographer! Here are a few of my favorites to help you get started with the planning process:

• Florals: The Slow Cult | Goldenrod Floral Design 
• HMUA: Black Fern Beauty | Pacific Brides 
• Bakery: Raining Cookie | Simply Sweet
• Officiant: Officiant Jimmie 
• Catering: Miere Catering 

North Cascades Elopement Packing List

While planning your North Cascades 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 & 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
• Picnic Supplies
• Adventure Gear
• First Aid Kit
• Backpack(s)
• Rain jacket
• Jacket 
• Warm layers 
• Hand Warmers
• Gloves/Mittens
• Headlamps
• Umbrellas
• Blanket 
• Ski Gear/Snowboarding Gear

North Cascades Elopement Day Timeline 

4:30 am – Photo coverage begins upon arrival at the Artist Point parking lot.

5:00 am- Hike up to Artist Point via the Huntoon Point via Artist Ridge Trail!

6:00 am – Sunrise portraits along Artist Ridge Trail. 

6:45 am – Vow ceremony atop Artist Point!

7:00 am – Hike back to the Artist Point parking lot and take photos on the way down. 

8:00 am – Drive to Bagley Lakes Trailhead.

8:30 am – Explore the Bagley Lakes Loop!

9:30 am – Share a celebratory drink toast!

9:45 am – Set up and enjoy a lakeside breakfast picnic. 

10:15 am – Hike down to Bagley Lakes Trailhead. 

11:15 am – Drive back to The Greybird Retreat Airbnb In Deming, Washington! 

12:15 pm – Arrive back at Airbnb for cabin portraits and detail photos. 

1:00 pm – Change into adventure gear and head to Racehorse Falls. 

1:30 pm – Arrive at Racehorse Falls and explore while taking waterfall portraits!

2:30 pm – Head to The North Fork Brewery for local beers and pizza! 

3:30 pm – Drive back to Airbnb for cake cutting!

4:00 pm – Elopement cake cutting! 

4:30 pm – Photo coverage ends.

Leave No Trace When You Elope In The North Cascades 

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 the North Cascades, be sure to respect the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace so that the beauty of the National Park 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 North Cascades Elopement!

Hi, I’m Erica, a Washington elopement photographer! If you and your partner want to plan an epic North Cascades National Park elopement, I’m here to capture a day you’ll never forget! Be sure to check out my North Cascades elopement packages and contact me via my inquiry form here! To learn more about getting married in the North Cascades, check out this Sunrise elopement at Artist Point near Mt. Baker! I can’t wait to explore all the beauty and wonder the North Cascades has to offer with you and your partner!