The Best Pacific Northwest Forest Elopement Venues
Before I became an elopement photographer, I was a professional traveler. I’ve visited 45 countries and countless bucket list destinations. I’ll be honest—forests rarely make those lists. Mosquitoes, swamps, wild animals—these things can easily turn a traveler away. Beaches and castles are much more enjoyable to explore.
However the Pacific Northwest is different. It’s home to forests straight out of a fairy tale or a Netflix fantasy series. Since I started photographing elopements, I’ve fallen in love with forests.
In this post, I’ll share what you need to know if you’re planning to elope in the woods. At the end, I’ll list the most magical spots in the PNW to book for your forest elopement.
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Check out the couples who’ve made the PNW forests their perfect elopement setting!
What You Should Know About Forest Elopements in the Pacific Northwest
A forest elopement isn’t like an oceanfront or city pavilion wedding. It has its own unique vibe, and understanding that is key to making the most of your experience.
Thinking about a forest elopement in the Pacific Northwest? Here are some things to keep in mind:
Time of Year
The season plays a big role in picking your forest elopement spot. Not all forests are accessible in winter. Some forests are stunning in the fall, with leaves turning vibrant colors. Others take on a moody vibe with fog and mud. Spring brings rushing waterfalls, but many areas might still be closed. When I talk to couples, we often discuss the timing, and if their date is flexible, I may suggest rescheduling to match the best seasonal conditions.
Location
Not all forests are ideal for elopements. Some are so dense that light becomes an issue, which can impact your photos. Good light is essential for capturing beautiful moments. Location scouting is something I do in my downtime, so I’m always prepared with backup options for my couples.
Number of Guests
If it’s just the two of you, the sky’s the limit when it comes to planning an elopement. You may only be limited by your budget and how fit you are. But once you add even a couple of guests (plus a photographer and officiant), things can get tricky. Some stunning elopement locations simply don’t permit larger groups.
Shoes
Forest trails can be tough, and high heels won’t cut it. Go for boots with ankle support or comfortables sneakers You can bring your high heels just for photos.
Leave No Trace
I follow a "Leave No Trace" approach with every elopement. Forest ecosystems are fragile, so we take care to protect them. Learn more about seven principles of Leave No Trace here.
Pets
One great thing about forest elopements is that some areas allow pets. For instance, while dogs are banned in national parks, they’re welcome in national forests. Be sure to double-check the rules for your chosen location.
Mosquitoes
Depending on the season, you might need to pack bug spray. If you're allergic to mosquito bites, you may want to reconsider a forest elopement during peak mosquito season.
Open Fire
At beaches provided that a fire ban is not in effect, we can light fires and toast marshmallows or use real lanterns. But in the forest, open flames are usually off-limits due to fire hazards.
Dirt
Here’s the deal: forests are messy. If your elopement dress is a family heirloom and you're concerned about dirt, it’s a good idea to have a second dress ready. That way, you can embrace the outdoors without worrying about ruining something irreplaceable.
If you're still with me after hearing all this, let's dive into what makes Pacific Northwest forest elopements truly special!
What to Know About Forest Elopement Venues in the Pacific Northwest
Forest Venues Are Limited
If you want to book a venue for your elopement, don’t wait. If your event is a year away, book now.
Many Venues Are Built for Big Weddings
A lot of venues cater to large groups, and that shows in the price. Some require a minimum number of booking days. Keep this in mind when planning your elopement.
Anything Can Be a Venue if You're Up for It
Your venue can be as simple as a forest clearing, especially if you have a small group and some help setting up. You could plan a picnic, and my husband can officiate your ceremony right there. Keep in mind that a special use permit is required, which involves a small fee.
The Best Pacific Northwest Forest Elopement Venues
The easiest way to hold an elopement ceremony is outdoors. About 99% of the elopements I photograph take place outside. However, outdoor ceremonies come with some limits. You can't host them for groups larger than 15-20 people, as permits for bigger groups are usually not available. In those cases, you'll need to book a venue. Below, I’ve listed venues you can book for an elopement with guests or a larger intimate wedding, perfect for capturing your ceremony with a forest backdrop.
Near Olympic National Park
Fern Acres
Nestled on 5 acres of natural forest in Forks, WA, Fern Acres offers a fairytale setting for your intimate forest intimate wedding. With moss-covered old-growth stumps, countless ferns, and vine maples draped in moss, it’s the perfect secluded spot.
Kingston House
https://www.kingston.house/weddings
Located on rolling hills surrounded by towering cedars and an organic lavender farm, Kingston House requires a two-night stay for up to 14 guests to hold an elopement on the property.
Cascadia Meadows
https://www.cascadiameadows.com/
Cascadia Meadows has been hosting weddings since 1908. For your elopement, use the meadow framed by western red cedar arbors under 200-foot trees. The venue features native plants, cedar beams, and a stunning backdrop for your ceremony.
Near North Cascades National Park and Artist Point
Creekside Celebrations
https://www.facebook.com/creeksidecelebrations
Tucked along Thunder Creek in Skagit Valley, Creekside Celebrations offers a secluded, elegant barn venue surrounded by towering cedar trees. Enjoy a full-weekend rental, so you won’t have to rush through setup or cleanup on your big day.
Misty River Ranch
https://www.mistyriverwedding.com/
Nestled in the Mount Baker foothills alongside the Nooksack River, Misty River Ranch offers a scenic, peaceful venue for your wedding in the valley.
Woodpecker Rentals
https://www.woodpeckertables.com/
The Greenhouse at Woodpecker Rentals is a charming venue set in a flower garden by a bubbling brook on Sumas Mountain. With its glass ceiling and natural light, it’s perfect for any season, complete with a cozy wood-burning stove in winter and an open-air feel in summer.
Near Mt. Rainier National Park
Black Diamond Gardens
https://www.blackdiamondgardens.com/
This charming country venue in Black Diamond, Washington, is just 45 minutes from Seattle. Perfect for a rustic wedding.
Iron & Vine Treehouse
https://ironandvinetreehouse.com/
Located at the base of Mount Rainier near Ashford, WA, Iron & Vine Treehouse lets you experience the forest in a unique way. Nestled among towering Douglas Firs, this 400-square-foot treehouse offers an immersive nature retreat just minutes from Mt. Rainier National Park.
Nisqually Winds Mountain House
https://nisquallywindsmountainhouse.com/
Just a few miles from the Nisqually entrance of Mt. Rainier National Park, this venue offers stunning mountain backdrops and the calming sounds of the Nisqually River.
Paradise Village
https://www.paradisevillagelodge.com/
Combining rustic charm with luxury, this venue near Mt. Rainier is becoming one of Washington's top spots for weddings.
The Pacific Northwest Elopement Photographer
Planning the perfect elopement in the Pacific Northwest woods? Schedule a free consultation, and we'll talk about your vision and explore the best locations and venues for your big day.
Click the button to learn more about elopements in the Pacific Northwest and get to know me.
This May elopement in Olympic National Park will be remembered for a long time. Not just for its beauty and emotion. A few weeks after the ceremony, the groom sent me a photo of his arm—a large tattoo of one of my photos on his shoulder. That message made my day.