I’m always up for an adventurous hiking elopement, but nothing beats the thrill of meeting couples in Washington State for a breathtaking Sunrise ceremony at Artist Point. I had the pleasure of joining Kayla and Evan at Artist Point on a stunning September morning for a truly unforgettable elopement experience. I can’t wait for you to check out their Artist Point elopement and learn some of my best elopement planning tips below!

All About Artist Point

Where Is Artist Point?

Artist Point is one of Washington’s most beautiful wilderness areas. 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. Artist Point is located near Deming, WA, Glacier, WA, and the Mt. Baker Ski area.

How Do I Get To Artist Point?

Artist Point is accessible via Mt. Baker Highway (SR 542). The drive up to Artist Point is a winding, scenic two-lane road that opens in late Summer and closes around early Fall (depending on snowfall).

Where Can I Park At Artist Point?

While no special use permit is required for an Artist Point elopement, you must purchase a $5 parking pass, which can be done in person or online. I love that the Artist Point parking lot provides easy access to the area’s trails. 

Where Are The Best Artist Point Hikes?

The area’s well-maintained hiking and recreational trails make it a popular, dog-friendly destination for hikers, outdoor lovers, families, and elopement couples. It’s easily one of my favorite Mt. Baker wedding spots! Two of the most popular trails are Table Mountain Trail and the Huntoon Point via Artist Ridge Trail.

Kayla and Evan’s Love Story 

Kayla and Evan met on a dating app in 2020. Like many people trying to date during the pandemic, they shared their first date over Facetime. Shortly after, they planned an in-person date to officially meet and get to know one another better. Once together, they felt an immediate connection. Kayla and Evan soon became inseparable and fell in love! While Kayla and Evan prefer to keep their love and relationship close to their hearts, the couple’s reliability, steady presence, and chemistry are undeniable! When I met the pair at Artist’s Point, I couldn’t help but notice their strong bond. Kayla’s outgoing nature contrasted beautifully with Evan’s more reserved demeanor; they both shared a great sense of humor!

Kayla and Evan’s Artist Point Elopement

Kayla and Evan held a courthouse ceremony in Florida before their Artist Point elopement! Even though they officially married in Florida, they wanted to share a unique and intimate adventure in the Pacific Northwest. So, I was super excited when they reached out and wanted a Sunrise ceremony at Artist Point. 

Kayla and Evan’s elopement day started early! We met at the crack of dawn at the Artist Point parking lot before beginning our dark hike up to the top. Just before the Sun rose, the couple read vows along the trail and enjoyed one another’s presence, laughing, exploring, and living in the moment! The air was crisp on this gorgeous, early September morning and full of adventure. Since we arrived so early, we were even lucky enough to have the place to ourselves as we made our way to Artist Point’s panoramic overlook!

Once we reached the top of Artist Point, Kayla and Evan watched the Sunrise over Mt. Shuksan. The alpenglow was incredible and lit up Mt. Baker perfectly. After the Sun rose, we all hiked out of Artist Point and went to Bagley Lakes, Heather Meadows, and Reflection Lakes for more photos and exploration. Capturing Kayla and Evan’s Artist Point elopement was a joy-filled, lighthearted experience! I couldn’t be more happy to have been part of their adventure and to help them say I Do!

Tips For Planning An Artist Point Elopement

Elopement Tip #1: Plan Ahead

Artist Point can experience unexpected or early-season closures due to weather. Depending on when Artist Point receives its first big snowfall, the area can be open as late as November. When planning your elopement, account for the time of year. Pack layers and always have a backup ceremony location in mind!

Elopement Tip #2: Arrive Early

As mentioned above, Artist Point’s parking lot is large but quickly fills up. Since the area isn’t accessible year-round, tourists and locals flock to Artist Point from July to early September pretty regularly. Arriving a little before Sunset will help you get a parking spot and avoid crowds.

Elopement Tip #3: Stay In Glacier, WA 

Glacier, Washington, is a great place to stay if you’re looking for a cozy place to unwind and relax before your Artist Point elopement. It’s the closest city to Artist Point and is home to a few great restaurants and accommodations. From the small town, you can conveniently hop onto Mt. Baker Highway and drive up to Artist Point’s parking lot!

Ready To Plan An Artist Point Elopement?!

Hi, I’m Erica, a Washington elopement photographer! If you and your partner want to plan a hiking elopement at Artist Point like Kayla and Evan, I’m here to document an experience you and your partner will remember forever! Be sure to check out my Washington elopement packages and reach out via my inquiry form here! If you want to learn more about eloping in Washington, check out my Washington elopement guide! I can’t wait to explore Artist Point’s beautiful hiking trails with you and your partner while capturing an adventure elopement unique to your love story!

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