How to Elope in Mount Rainier National Park. 2025 Ultimate Guide to Your Adventure Wedding
Mount Rainier is the tallest volcanic peak in the contiguous United States, home to the world’s largest volcanic glacier cave system and over 1,000 native plant species. It’s one-of-a-kind – and breathtakingly beautiful! Isn’t this exactly what couples dream of when they want to tie the knot somewhere extraordinary?
If you're planning an adventure elopement, Mt Rainier has everything you need for a truly unforgettable experience.
Check out my previous post for the best photo spots, ceremony locations, and places to stay. Here, I’ll share everything you need to know about planning a Mt Rainier elopement.
Why Eloping in Mt. Rainier National Park Is a Great Idea
It's breathtaking
No words are needed here – just check out the pictures. Mt. Rainier is one of the most stunning spots in Washington, and that’s saying something in a state full of nature’s treasures.It’s diverse
The park offers a mix of settings for incredible elopement photos: pine woods, snowy mountain peaks, waterfalls, and impressive wildflower meadows. Even in winter, when some roads and facilities are closed, the park offers plenty to enjoy.Perfect for stargazing
Stargazing together is one of the most romantic things you can do – but city lights get in the way. With minimal light pollution, Mt. Rainier offers some of the best stargazing in the Pacific Northwest, just two hours from Seattle.Close to Seattle
No need to waste a day driving. The park is easy to reach, just a quick trip from the city.So Much to Do
Whether you want to hike, climb, or enjoy a relaxing day, Mt. Rainier offers the perfect setting for both a laid-back wedding or a more adventurous elopement.
Adventure Elopement Checklist. What You Should Know to Elope in Mt. Rainier National Park
Marriage license
First, my assistant and husband Pasha is ordained and would be happy to officiate your ceremony for free (as in Washington State you can't self-solemnize). However, you’ll need a Washington marriage license if you're planning to marry in Mt. Rainier National Park.
I recommend applying for your marriage license in King County. They have an online application, and they may even mail you the license (check with them directly to confirm).
Here’s how to get it:
Online: Start the process at the King County Online Marriage Kiosk.
By Mail: Download and complete the form, then send the notarized original along with a $69 check or money order to the King County Recorder's Office, 201 S. Jackson St., Ste. 204, Seattle, WA 98104.
In Person: Visit the King County Recorder's Office at the same address above.
For more details, check their website.
You can get your marriage license from any county in Washington, but there’s a 3-day waiting period. Plan your elopement at least three days after getting your license. The license is valid for 60 days.
Washington law requires two witnesses to sign your marriage certificate. Don’t worry – I’ll be your first witness. For the second, we can easily find someone on the trail to help. People usually love being asked to sign!
Permits
To visit Mount Rainier National Park, you need a Special Use Permit – along with the park entrance fee – depending on what you're doing.
To apply, complete the form, pay the $25 application fee on Pay.gov, and email the application to mora_special_use@nps.gov.
Please note that you must specify the exact location on the form. You may choose one of the locations for the ceremony depending on the group size and the day of the event. Before completing the form, select a location on the Special Use Permit Locations Map.
On the page of nps.gov you can find recommendations to submit your application at least four weeks before your desired date. Applications submitted with less than four weeks’ notice may be expedited. However, I recommend doing it as soon as you choose a place – at least two or three months before the elopement. The quota for permits in some places is limited; for example, some places are issued for only 1 wedding per day. The earlier, the better.
After your application is received, you’ll get instructions to pay the non-refundable $250 application fee online. Payment of the fee is required before your permit will be processed.
Last minute elopement? No time for getting the permit? Don’t worry. There are many trails and places with fantastic views outside of the Mt. Rainier National Park where you can elope.
Entrance Fee
Mt Rainier National Park charges a fee to enter. You can buy it online (it must be printed) or at the park entrance. This park does not accept cash.
There are two options: Standard Pass ($15-$30) and Annual Pass ($55). Alternatively, if you possess the America the Beautiful Pass, you're covered, as it grants free access to any national park across the United States.
Important! Since 2024, all visitors to Mt. Rainier National Park need a Timed Entry Reservation during the busy season. Here's what you need to know:
For entry between 7am-3pm, you must have a timed entry reservation. No reservation is needed if you enter before 7am or after 3pm
Your reservation gives you a 2-hour entry window, but you can stay as long as you want.
Even if you have a Special Use Permit, I recommend getting a timed entry permit too to avoid any issues
When & Where It Applies:
Paradise (Nisqually or Stevens Canyon entrance): May 24 - September 2.
Sunrise (White River Entrance): July 3 - September 2.
Getting Your Reservation:
Cost: $2 per vehicle.
Book by phone: 877-444-6777.
Book online: recreation.gov.
Reservations open three months in advance.
New slots are released daily for next-day use.
I strongly recommend booking your reservation well in advance.
Vendors
Here is a list of vendors I can recommend for those who plan their adventure elopement in Mt Rainier National Park.
HMUA:
Florists:
Cakes and desserts:
Catering:
The best elopement dresses:
Road time
There are two ways to reach Mt Rainier National Park:
For those flying in from outside Washington, Seattle-Tacoma Airport is the nearest major airport. From there, it's approximately a one and a half hours depending on the location within the park. The park has four exits on different sides of the mountain and from the entrance you need at least another 30-60 minutes on mountain roads to reach popular locations.
The journey from Portland International Airport along this route is about two and half hours.
Elopement Ceremony Spots
Each site within Mt Rainier National Park has a specific maximum capacity for guests, especially for weddings or elopements.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the rules:
* 1–12 participants: Allowed in certain pre-determined locations, including select trails, picnic areas, roadside spots, and campground amphitheaters.
* 13–24 participants: Restricted to picnic areas, roadside locations, and campground amphitheaters.
* 25–60 participants: Limited to roadside locations and campground amphitheaters.
* 60+ participants: Allowed only at campground amphitheaters.
To clarify what places are available for your elopement, use a Special Use Permit Locations Map.
For 1-8 people elopements are available:
Sunrise-Fremont Lookout Tower. Any day of the week, from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. One permit/day.
Tolmie Lookout Tower. Only weekdays (no weekends/federal holidays), from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. One permit/day.
Shriner Peak Lookout Tower. Any day of the week, from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Multiple permits/day.
Gobblers Knob Lookout Tower. Any day of the week, from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Multiple permits/day.
Roadside-Chinook Pass. Tuesday through Thursday, from 3 p.m. to 10 a.m. One permit/day.
Tipsoo Lake. Tuesday through Thursday, from 6 p.m. to 9 a.m. One permit/day.
Roadside-Reflection Lake. Tuesday through Thursday, from 6 p.m. to 9 a.m. One permit/day.
Roadside-Christine Falls. Tuesday through Thursday, from 6 p.m. to 9 a.m. One permit/day.
Paradise-Myrtle Falls. Tuesday through Thursday, from 6 p.m. to 9 a.m. One permit/day.
Narada Falls Bridge. Weekdays (no weekends/federal holidays), from 6 p.m. to 9 a.m. One permit/day.
For 9-12 people elopements are available:
Mowich Lake. Any day of the week, from 3 p.m. to 10 a.m. One permit/day.
Spray Park Area. Any day of the week, any time of day. One permit/day.
Grand Park Area. Any day of the week, any time of day. One permit/day.
Sunrise-Glacier Overlook. Weekdays (no weekends/federal holidays), any time of day. One permit/day.
Sunrise-Emmons Vista Overlook. Any day of the week, from 3 p.m. to 10 a.m. Multiple permits/day.
Sunrise-Dege Peak. Any day of the week, any time of day. One permit/day.
Summerland Area. Weekdays (no weekends/federal holidays), any time of day. One permit/day.
Camp Schurman has a maximum day use group size of 12 and allows one permit to be issued per day. Any day of the week, any time of day. One permit/day.
Upper Mountain Area. Any day of the week, any time of day. Multiple permits/day.
Camp Muir. Weekdays (no weekends/federal holidays), any time of day. One permit/day.
Van Trump Park Area. Any day of the week, any time of day. One permit/day.
Comet Falls. Tuesday through Thursday, from 3 p.m. to 10 a.m. Multiple permits/day.
Roadside-Frog Heaven. Any day of the week, any time of day. Multiple permits/day.
Paradise-Faraway Rock. Any day of the week, any time of day. One permit/day.
Paradise-Mazama Ridge. Any day of the week, any time of day. One permit/day.
Lake George. Any day of the week, any time of day. One permit/day.
Roadside-Kautz Creek Overlook. Any day of the week, any time of day. Multiple permits/day.
Tatoosh Range Area. Weekdays (no weekends/federal holidays), any time of day. Multiple permits/day.
Ohanapecosh-Grove of the Patriarchs. Tuesday through Thursday, from 3 p.m. to 10 a.m. One permit/day.
For 12-24 people elopements are available:
Paradise-Muir Snowfield. Any day of the week, any time of day. Multiple permits per day.
Paradise-Panorama Point. Tuesday through Thursday, from 3 p.m. to 10 a.m. One permit to be issued per day.
Cougar Rock-Carter Falls Trailhead (river area). Weekdays (no weekends/federal holidays), any time of day. One permit per day.
Pets
Pets are prohibited on ALL Mount Rainier National Park trails and wilderness areas. Only the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) on the eastern border of the park is excluded. The Pacific Crest Trail allows dogs on leashes no longer than 6 feet.
In other areas (parking lots and mpgrounds):
At all times, pets must be on a leash, not more than six feet (1.8 meters) in length or in a crate/cage.
At all times, pets must be with and under control of their owners.
All feces must be picked up and disposed of by owners.
Restrictions
The rules vary depending on your activities and your destination. My key guidelines for couples are:
1. Ceremonies may not impede the activities of other visitors. Areas cannot be
closed off during ceremonies and parking/natural/trails areas may not be reserved.
2. Ceremonies may not damage the natural terrain or foliage.
3. Throwing of rice, confetti, balloons, birdseed or any other material is prohibited.
4. Speakers and audio equipment is not allowed.
5. On national forest lands, motor vehicles must stick to designated routes.
6. If a fire ban is not in effect, only build fires in established fire rings, stoves, grills, or fireplaces.
7. Fireworks are always banned.
The Best Season for an Adventure Elopement at Mt. Rainier
Summer (July, August and the first half of September)
Summer is the peak season at Mt. Rainier National Park.
First, all park areas open up, so you can explore anywhere you want. All the campgrounds are also open. Second, summer brings vibrant colors as wildflowers bloom.
In August and September, the park offers perfect conditions for stargazing. The weather makes it ideal for outdoor activities like biking, horseback riding, and boating. It's also huckleberry harvest time.
Spring (May, and June)
While you won’t see the colorful flower fields that draw travelers from around the world, there are still plenty of vivid sights in spring.
The season begins with the Skunk Cabbage, followed by Calypso orchids blooming along the Palisades Trail in May. As summer approaches, yellow coltsfoot and fairytale-like white trilliums start to bloom.
Spring also brings fewer hikers, so you can enjoy the mountain views without the crowds however only lower elevations are available. Plus, May offers great opportunities for birdwatching.
Fall (September and first half of October)
The start of fall is one of the best times for an elopement in the park. It’s not just because the scenery is stunning, with plants and trees changing to shades of yellow and red. It’s also because of the moody atmosphere. The bright colors of nature mix with fall sunsets and fog.
After a full day of exploring, you’ll love warming up with hot tea or mulled wine at the lodge.
Winter (November – March)
Winter is ideal for snowshoeing, sledding, skiing, and snowboarding in the park. Vehicle access to Mount Rainier in the winter is only available from the Nisqually Entrance, in the southwest corner of the park on the way to Paradise. The Carbon River Entrance is open but the road within the park boundary is limited to foot and bicycle traffic. Check the road status webpage or alerts prior to coming to the park as road conditions are subject to change.
Best locations for elopement in Mt. Rainier National Park
Here is a full guide on the best spots for a ceremony, venues and stays in Mt Rainier National Park.
Tips and Tricks to Stay in Mt Rainier National Park
Here are some tips and tricks on how to choose a cabin for your elopement (especially, with guests):
1. When booking through Airbnb, keep in mind their policy regarding celebratory events on the property. While it's generally not allowed, hosts might grant permission if you inquire directly. VRBO, on the other hand, doesn't have such restrictions (that’s why I always recommend to start searching from VRBO).
2. Think outside the box when booking a fun place to stay. You’re not just limited to a hotel room. Booking somewhere fun and unique can level up your overall elopement experience (and it would be a super fun place to take “getting ready” photos). Imagine how many great pictures we can take in a glamping site under the stars or in an A-frame cabin in the woods.
3. If finding a single Airbnb for your group size proves challenging, consider the option of renting two or even 3 smaller ones. For instance, you could explore combinations like 10+4, 4 + 4 people, 6 + 2 people, or 6 + 4 people etc
4. As Mt. Rainier National Park is huge, I recommend renting a cabin near the entrance where you plan to elope. The park has 4 entrances, and it's about 2-3 hours between them. I always recommend choosing locations in one part of the park if you don't want to spend your time on transportation.
The Best Elopement Activities in Mt Rainier National Park
My top-10 activities that I recommend to my couples are:
1. Touching the sky on a Sourdough Ridge Trail.
2. Renting a boat or kayak at Mowich Lake.
3. Hiking with llamas.
4. Trying en plein air painting.
5. Visiting one of the historic fire lookouts.
6. Exploring Myrtle Falls at Paradise.
7. Guided horseback trail riding.
8. Riding a Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad.
9. Starring night pictures from the Sunrise Parking Lot.
10. Hunting for huckleberries. Non-commercial berry picking is allowed within the National Park.
How Much Does It Cost To Elope: Elopement Budget Checklist
The following is an estimate of the budget:
Plane tickets to Washington within the USA: You can expect to pay anywhere from $600 to $1000 for two plane tickets, depending on the season and how early you book them.
Car rental: $250-500, but it all depends on how many days you need it and the type of vehicle, whether it's a 2WD, SUV, 4WD, or something else.
Cabin rental: For a cabin rental, prices typically range from $400 to $2000, depending on factors like the number of days you're staying, the number of guests, and the level of luxury you're after.
Photographer: $4000 - 7500, with costs varying depending on the amount of photo coverage you require. Services can start from as little as 4 hours and extend up to 2 full days of elopement experience.
Officiant: $0. My assistant is ordained and would be delighted to officiate your ceremony as a complimentary service. Alternatively, if you prefer, you can ask one of your guests to do the honor.
HMUA: $ 0-800. When it comes to hair and makeup, you have options. You can handle it yourself and save some cash, or you can opt for a professional hair and makeup artist. Prices for professional services typically range from $600 to $800.
Florals: $50-800. If you're feeling crafty, you can handle your bouquet yourself by ordering materials from Etsy, which might cost you around $50. Alternatively, you can opt for the convenience and expertise of a professional florist, with prices typically ranging from $500 to $800.
Cake: $50 - 500. You can bake it yourself, which might cost anywhere from $30-50, depending on ingredients and decorations. Alternatively, you can leave it to the pros and order from a professional cake or dessert maker.
Catering: $30-800 for two persons. If you're on a budget, a low-key picnic would cost about $30 to $50 to put together yourself. For something special, you could hire a private chef to come to your Airbnb and work their culinary magic. Prices for a private chef typically range from $500 to $800.
Marriage license: $69 for King County.
What to Learn Choosing a Mt Rainier National Park Elopement Photographer
Choosing an adventure elopement photographer isn't easy, but here are some tips based on my experience.
To begin with, choose a local photographer for your elopement. Local photographers know the most picturesque spots for photo shoots in Mt. Rainier and can help you locate them. Moreover, you don't need to cover their transportation costs. It saves money.
Next, hire a vendor who can provide planning assistance and can give you advice about local vendors.
Make sure the photographer's style meets your expectations and reflects your vibe.
Make sure the contract does not contain any hidden fees, and you are aware of the full cost of eloping before you transfer funds.
Mt Rainier National Park Elopement Packages
I have a few packages for couples who elope in Mt. Rainier National Park.
Each package includes complimentary officiating services.
You'll get beautiful, sincere photographs that you can treasure for a lifetime.
You have:
Planning assistance
Coverage from four hours to two full days
Edited, full-resolution photos and GIFs
Password-protected online gallery with unlimited downloads
A sneak peek within one week of your elopement day
Personal printing rights
A pleasant surprise: travel fees are included!
The price varies between $4000 and $7500 based on the duration of your elopement.
