how to ELOPE in OREGON
Complete Destination Elopement Guide
dreaming of ELOPING in OREGON, but don't know where to start?
celebrating your story in the way that feels the most 'you'
From rugged coastlines and mossy waterfalls to alpine lakes and snow-capped mountains, Oregon is one of the most diverse and breathtaking elopement destinations in the U.S. You can say your vows with your toes in the sand at Cannon Beach, hike to a hidden waterfall for a private ceremony, or share a first kiss with Mount Hood glowing at sunset behind you.
Whether you’re planning something intimate with just the two of you or a micro-wedding with your favorite people, this guide is packed with everything you need to know to elope in Oregon. Inside you’ll find the best places to elope, when to go, permit info, where to stay, travel tips, vendor recommendations, and real inspiration from couples who’ve already done it.
Oregon is a choose-your-own-adventure kind of place — and your elopement here can be just as wild, romantic, and unique as your love story. Let’s dive in!
OREGON ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER
meet your
Why I’m the Right Photographer for Your Oregon Elopement
I’m more than just your photographer — I’m your planner, adventure guide, and built-in hype woman. I’ve photographed all across Oregon, from stormy afternoons at Cannon Beach to golden-hour vows at Trillium Lake. I know which trails give you privacy, how to handle the permit process, and how to craft a relaxed timeline that leaves room for slow mornings and spontaneous adventures.
Here’s what I bring to your Oregon elopement:
• Expertise across Oregon’s coast, waterfalls, mountains, forests, and lakes
• Guidance with permits, locations, and logistics
• Connections with amazing local vendors and planners
• Candid, cinematic photography that captures both the landscapes and the real emotions
Whether you’re envisioning a barefoot beach picnic or an alpine lake adventure, I’ll help you create a day that feels true to you — and document it in a way that lets you relive it forever.
A LETTER MAILED WITH LOVE:
“We had the privilege to work with Meg on our wedding day and we were absolutely blown away by her work! Meg is such a sweet person to work with and we both loved getting to know her. Meg does an amazing job of getting to know her clients personally so that she knows how to best capture the couple and make them feel comfortable. She makes the process of taking pictures feel so natural and fun! Her hard work resulted in beautiful photography that we were so excited to frame and hang up in our home. On the day of our wedding Meg was so much more than our photographer, she was a friend that was cheering us on throughout the day. From our first look to our “I do’s” she was so excited to celebrate with us every step of the way. From the small intricate details of our décor to group shots with our bridal party and family shots, Meg did an incredible job of capturing every moment of our wedding day. We look forward to being able to look through our pictures in the years to come and to be able to relive our day over and over again through Meg’s wonderful work!”
FROM Briyonna Benfield
table of contents
Click below to jump to each section
What We’ll Cover
coast
forests
waterfalls
Where to ELOPE (by landscape)
mountains
deserts
Browse by:
VENDOR RECS
WHEN TO ELOPE
TRAVEL TIPS
EATS + STAYS
PERMITS + lnt
ACTIVITIES
Elevate your elopement
If you’re dreaming of moody skies, epic sea stacks, windswept beaches, and that wild Pacific Northwest energy — the Oregon Coast is pure magic. Stretching over 360 miles, this coastline gives you a mix of rugged cliffs, hidden coves, forest trails, and sandy beaches that make it perfect for elopements big or small.
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Probably the most famous spot on the coast, Cannon Beach is iconic for a reason. With Haystack Rock towering in the distance, wide sandy beaches, and cozy little shops and restaurants nearby, it’s the perfect mix of adventure and comfort.
• Vibe: Iconic and romantic. Famous for Haystack Rock, long stretches of sand, and stunning sunsets.
• Accessibility: Easy — you can walk right from town onto the beach.
• Best For: Couples or small groups. It’s popular, so sunrise or weekdays are best for privacy.
• Photos: Wide beaches, dramatic sea stacks, golden light reflecting off the water.
• Pro Tip: Pair your Cannon Beach vows with a sunset picnic or a post-ceremony dinner in town for a cozy end to the day.
Tucked inside Ecola State Park, Indian Beach is one of those hidden gems that feels wild and untouched. With rocky headlands, tidepools, and sea stacks in the distance, it’s a moody, dramatic backdrop for an intimate elopement. Driftwood lines the sand, and surfers often dot the waves, giving it that adventurous, untamed energy.
• Vibe: Rugged, secluded, and moody with sea stacks and tidepools.
• Accessibility: Short walk from the parking lot; fewer crowds than nearby Cannon.
• Best For: Couples who want a quieter coastal spot without straying too far from Cannon Beach.
• Photos: Tidepools, driftwood-strewn beaches, moody waves, and golden sunsets over the headlands.
• Pro Tip: Sunrise or weekday evenings are your best bet for privacy and dreamy light.
With massive sandstone cliffs, rolling dunes, and waves that crash dramatically against the rocks, Cape Kiwanda is bold and adventurous. It’s perfect if you want to add a little hiking and drama to your elopement day.
• Vibe: Bold sandstone cliffs, massive dunes, and waves that crash dramatically against the headlands.
• Accessibility: Short hikes up dunes and cliffs. A little sandy, but so worth it.
• Best For: Couples or small groups who want adventurous portraits.
• Photos: Orange sandstone cliffs glowing at sunset, sweeping ocean views, moody beach shots.
• Pro Tip: Sunrise here = magic. Fewer crowds and the light hits the cliffs beautifully.
CANNON BEACH
INDIAN BEACH
CAPE KIWANDA
Just minutes from Cannon Beach, Hug Point feels like a hidden gem straight out of a fairytale. With a little waterfall that flows directly onto the sand at low tide, sea caves, and tidepools, it’s a dreamy spot for intimate vows.
• Vibe: A fairytale spot with a little waterfall that flows directly onto the beach at low tide.
• Accessibility: Short trail from the parking area, but only accessible at certain tides.
• Best For: Couples or tiny groups (2–10).
• Photos: Waterfall, sea caves, tidepools, dramatic cliffs.
• Pro Tip: Always check tide charts — Hug Point is only safe at low tide, and I’ll help you plan around it.
HUG POINT
Way down on the southern coast, Samuel H. Boardman is where you’ll find ALL the coastal drama. With natural bridges, hidden beaches, and cliffside trails, it feels rugged and untamed — the ultimate adventure elopement destination.
• Vibe: Wild, dramatic, and remote. This southern Oregon stretch is full of cliffside viewpoints, hidden beaches, and natural bridges.
• Accessibility: Mix of roadside pullouts and short hikes — some spots require more adventurous treks.
• Best For: Couples or small groups who want maximum drama with fewer crowds.
• Photos: Sea arches, turquoise coves, sweeping cliff edges, forest paths.
• Pro Tip: Turn this into a road trip — Samuel H. Boardman is far from Portland, so it’s perfect for couples who want an extended elopement adventure.
Samuel H. Boardman
If you picture yourselves surrounded by towering evergreens, mossy trails, and the kind of fairytale vibes that make you feel like you’ve stepped into another world, Oregon’s forests are pure magic. From easy-to-access spots in the Columbia River Gorge to remote wilderness trails, there’s a forest backdrop for every kind of elopement.
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Ecola blends lush forest trails with dramatic coastal overlooks, giving you that perfect mix of PNW vibes. The moss-draped evergreens and winding roads feel dreamy, while the viewpoints and beach access add ocean drama.
• Vibe: Lush forest meets dramatic coastline.
• Accessibility: Easy drive + short forest walks; viewpoints and trails for every level.
• Best For: Couples who want both forest magic and sweeping coastal views.
• Photos: Towering mossy evergreens, coastal headlands, and winding forest roads.
• Pro Tip: Build in time for both the forest and the beach — this is one of the few spots where you can have it all in one park.
The forests around Mount Hood give you the best of both worlds: dense evergreens and mountain views. You can start your day wandering tree-lined trails, then head to Trillium Lake or Timberline Lodge for alpine backdrops.
• Vibe: Classic PNW with alpine flair.
• Accessibility: Easy roadside trails + deeper hikes available.
• Best For: Couples who want variety — forest, mountain, and lake all in one trip.
• Photos: Towering firs, snowy peaks peeking through, alpine meadows.
• Pro Tip: Summer and early fall are best for combining the forest with clear mountain views.
Just east of Portland, the Columbia River Gorge is packed with forest trails, moss-covered cliffs, and waterfalls around every corner. It’s one of the most accessible ways to get that classic PNW forest vibe without driving hours into the wilderness.
• Vibe: Lush, moody, and dramatic.
• Accessibility: Tons of options, from easy walks to longer hikes.
• Best For: Couples or small groups who want flexibility and variety.
• Photos: Mossy trees, river views, hidden waterfalls.
• Pro Tip: Combine a forest trail ceremony with portraits at a nearby waterfall for the best of both worlds.
ECOLA STATE PARK
MOUNT HOOD NATIONAL FOREST
COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE
Tucked into the far southern coast near Brookings, Oregon’s redwood groves feel absolutely magical. These giants soar hundreds of feet into the air, creating a cathedral-like canopy with dappled light filtering through. Pair a ceremony here with a cliffside adventure at nearby Samuel H. Boardman, and you’ve got the ultimate coastal + forest elopement combo.
• Vibe: Towering, ancient redwoods that feel straight out of a fairytale.
• Accessibility: Short, easy hikes lead into the groves.
• Best For: Couples who want the epic feel of redwoods without crossing into California.
• Photos: Soaring trunks, moody forest light, lush ferns at the base of the trees.
OREGON REDWOODS (brookings)
If you’re dreaming of alpine meadows, jagged peaks, and reflective lakes, Oregon’s mountains are pure magic. From iconic Mount Hood to the hidden Wallowas, these spots are perfect for couples who want adventure, drama, and those cinematic backdrops you just can’t get anywhere else.
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Just 90 minutes from Portland, Mount Hood is Oregon’s most iconic peak — and Trillium Lake sits right at its base, creating the perfect mirror reflection of the mountain on calm days. You can pair forest trails, alpine meadows, and lakeside vows all in one elopement.
• Vibe: Iconic alpine Oregon.
• Accessibility: Easy — lakeside boardwalks and roadside viewpoints, plus longer hikes nearby.
• Best For: Couples or small groups who want a variety of backdrops in one spot.
• Photos: Mountain reflections in the lake, snowy peaks, wildflower meadows.
• Pro Tip: Sunrise gives you calm water for reflections and avoids the summer crowds.
Near Bend, the Three Sisters Wilderness is full of volcanic peaks, lava fields, and alpine lakes that feel rugged and adventurous. Sparks Lake, just outside the official wilderness boundary, is the crown jewel — a drive-up alpine lake with glassy reflections of South Sister and Broken Top. This area gives you that “big adventure” feel while still being accessible from Bend’s breweries, hot springs, and cozy cabins.
• Vibe: Rugged, volcanic, and adventurous.
• Accessibility: Sparks Lake is drive-up; other wilderness trails require moderate to strenuous hikes.
• Best For: Couples who want both convenience (at Sparks) and the option to hike deeper into the backcountry.
• Photos: Jagged volcanic peaks, alpine lake reflections, lava fields, wildflower meadows.
• Pro Tip: Sunrise at Sparks Lake is unbeatable — calm water for perfect reflections and soft alpenglow on the mountains.
Less crowded than Mount Hood or the Three Sisters, Jefferson offers alpine meadows, wildflower fields, and smaller alpine lakes. It’s the perfect “hidden gem” if you want mountain views without the tourist traffic.
• Vibe: Quiet, wild, and scenic.
• Accessibility: Moderate hikes required for the best views.
• Best For: Couples who want seclusion but not a huge road trip.
• Photos: Rugged peaks, flower-filled meadows, alpine lakes.
• Pro Tip: Late July–August is peak wildflower season here.
mount hood + trillium lake
Three Sisters Wilderness + Sparks Lake
Mount Jefferson Wilderness
Nicknamed “Oregon’s Alps,” the Wallowas are tucked away in the far northeast corner of the state. With jagged peaks and Wallowa Lake at their base, this spot feels grand and remote — a true destination elopement.
• Vibe: Remote, majestic, and off-the-beaten-path.
• Accessibility: Drive-up lake views, plus backcountry trails for hiking couples.
• Best For: Multi-day elopements or couples who want something few others do.
• Photos: Craggy peaks, alpine lakes, rolling valleys.
• Pro Tip: Stay in the town of Joseph for an artsy, small-town base with epic views right outside your Airbnb.
Wallowa Mountains + Wallowa Lake
As the deepest lake in the U.S., Crater Lake is truly one-of-a-kind. Its sapphire-blue water and dramatic caldera walls make it an unforgettable backdrop for elopements. You can explore rim trails, take in viewpoints, or even snowshoe here in the winter.
• Vibe: Iconic and awe-inspiring.
• Accessibility: Drive-up overlooks + rim trails; some hikes are more strenuous.
• Best For: Couples who want a national park elopement without leaving Oregon.
• Photos: Deep blue water, sweeping cliffs, snowy backdrops in winter.
• Pro Tip: Summer brings the best access to trails, but winter snow adds a cozy, dramatic twist.
crater lake national park
Oregon is basically waterfall heaven. From towering cascades in the Columbia River Gorge to hidden gems deep in the forest, these spots feel straight out of a fantasy novel. Imagine saying your vows with mist rising around you or sneaking away for portraits under mossy canyon walls — it’s intimate, wild, and so Oregon.
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Just 45 minutes from Portland, Latourell Falls is one of the easiest waterfalls to access — but it still feels secluded and magical. The basalt cliffs and curtain of rushing water make it a dramatic backdrop for vows.
• Vibe: Moody, mossy, and powerful.
• Accessibility: Short, paved trail from the parking lot.
• Best For: Couples or tiny groups.
• Photos: Towering waterfall, lush greenery, basalt rock formations.
• Pro Tip: Perfect for sunrise ceremonies to avoid crowds — plus the morning mist makes everything glow.
Oregon’s most famous waterfall — and for good reason. At 620 feet, it’s the tallest in the state and incredibly dramatic. While it’s busy with tourists, the stone bridge and sheer scale make it unforgettable.
• Vibe: Iconic and jaw-dropping.
• Accessibility: Very easy, right off the highway.
• Best For: Symbolic ceremonies, portraits, or couples who want that iconic PNW landmark.
• Photos: Two-tiered waterfall, stone footbridge, dramatic cliffs.
• Pro Tip: Because of the crowds, Multnomah works best for portraits rather than private vows — I’ll help you pair it with a quieter nearby spot for the ceremony.
This park is basically an elopement playground. With a trail that loops past 10 waterfalls, you can mix and match your favorites for a full adventure day. One of the coolest features? You can actually walk behind some of the falls.
• Vibe: Adventurous and varied.
• Accessibility: Range of trails from short strolls to moderate hikes.
• Best For: Couples who want a full-day elopement with multiple backdrops.
• Photos: Waterfalls you can stand behind, mossy canyons, forest trails.
• Pro Tip: South Falls is the most famous, but North Falls is usually quieter and just as epic.
Latourell Falls
Multnomah Falls
Silver Falls State Park
Tucked away in the Three Sisters Wilderness, Proxy Falls is one of the most photogenic cascades in the state. The hike in takes you through lava fields and dense forest before revealing a 200-foot waterfall pouring over mossy cliffs.
• Vibe: Whimsical and otherworldly.
• Accessibility: 1.5-mile loop trail, moderate but worth it.
• Best For: Couples who love hiking and adventure.
• Photos: Veil-like waterfall over bright green moss, dreamy forest setting.
• Pro Tip: Best in late spring/early summer when the water flow is strongest and the moss is vibrant.
Proxy Falls
Known as the birthplace of American sport climbing, Smith Rock is all red cliffs, winding rivers, and desert energy. It’s one of Oregon’s most photographed state parks and makes for an epic backdrop if you want something different from the coast or forests.
• Vibe: Bold, rocky, and dramatic.
• Accessibility: Easy roadside viewpoints + moderate hikes.
• Best For: Couples who want desert vibes without leaving Oregon.
• Photos: Red rock cliffs, Crooked River bends, golden light.
• Pro Tip: Sunset here is next-level, with the cliffs glowing orange.
Part of the John Day Fossil Beds, the Painted Hills look like they’re straight out of a painting. With stripes of red, gold, and orange earth, they’re surreal and unlike anywhere else in the state.
• Vibe: Otherworldly and colorful.
• Accessibility: Short walks on designated trails; no off-trail allowed.
• Best For: Couples who want a unique, artsy backdrop.
• Photos: Striped hillsides, rolling desert landscapes.
• Pro Tip: Best at golden hour when the colors really pop — and remember, Leave No Trace is especially important here.
smith rock state park
painted hills
Remote and wild, the Alvord Desert is a vast, cracked playa with endless horizons. You’ll find hot springs nearby, epic sunsets, and some of the best stargazing in Oregon. It’s ideal if you want solitude and a true off-the-grid experience.
• Vibe: Remote, vast, and adventurous.
• Accessibility: Remote — long drive from Portland/Bend, best paired with a multi-day trip.
• Best For: Couples who want privacy and a one-of-a-kind backdrop.
• Photos: Cracked earth, endless skies, starry nights.
• Pro Tip: Bring layers — the desert gets HOT during the day and cold at night.
alvord desert
WHEN TO ELOPE IN OREGON
Spring (April – June)
• Expect: Wildflowers, full waterfalls, moody coastal rain & fewer crowds.
• Best For: Columbia River Gorge, Painted Hills, forest trails.
• Pro Tip: Weather is unpredictable — pack layers + clear umbrellas.
Summer (July – September)
• Expect: Warm, dry days and access to high-alpine trails. Central Oregon can hit the 90s; late summer often brings wildfire smoke.
• Best For: Coast sunsets, Mount Hood, Trillium Lake, Three Sisters, Crater Lake.
• Pro Tip: Go for sunrise to beat crowds at Cannon Beach + Multnomah Falls.
Fall (October – November)
• Expect: Crisp air, colorful foliage, fewer crowds; early snow at higher elevations by November.
• Best For: Columbia River Gorge, Silver Falls, Mount Jefferson, cozy coastal elopements.
• Pro Tip: October is prime — great weather + fewer tourists.
Winter (December – March)
• Expect: Snowy mountains, stormy coast, empty trails. Some mountain roads close for the season.
• Best For: Mount Hood (Timberline Lodge), Crater Lake snowshoeing, dramatic coastlines.
• Pro Tip: Short daylight hours — plan early ceremonies. AWD or snow tires are a must.
Bottom line: Summer + early fall = best weather + accessibility. Spring + winter = moody, dramatic, intimate vibes.
One of the best things about Oregon is that it’s beautiful year-round — but the vibe of your elopement will totally depend on the season. Here’s a breakdown to help you pick the perfect time:
Where to Stay + EAT in OREGON
Central Oregon
Spork (Bend)
Here are top-tier spots that stand out:
Columbia River Gorge
Oregon Coast
Local Ocean Seafood (Newport)
One of the best parts of planning your elopement in Oregon is choosing where to stay. Whether you want a cozy A-frame cabin in the woods, a boutique hotel on the coast, or a modern Airbnb near Bend’s breweries, Oregon has options for every vibe. Here’s a breakdown by region:
Mount Hood
CENTRAL OREGON AIRBNBS
MOUNT HOOD AIRBNBS
GORGE AIRBNBS
OREGON COAST AIRBNBS
Deschutes Brewery (Bend)
Ariana (Bend)
Sisters Bakery (Sisters)
The Open Door (Sisters)
Mount Hood Brewing Co.
Koya Kitchen
Skyway Bar & Grill
Ratskeller (Government Camp)
Rendezvous Grill (Welches)
Pip’s Original Donuts & Chai (Portland)
Multnomah Falls Lodge
Riverside Restaurant & Lounge
Grasslands Barbecue (Hood River)
Sugarpine Drive-In (Troutdale)
Pelican Brewing
Wanda’s Café (Nehalem)
Tony’s Crab Shack (Bandon)
Tillamook Creamery (Tillamook)
Mo’s Seafood Chowder
The Bistro (Cannon Beach)
OREGON TRAVEL TIPS
Drive Times:
Oregon looks small on the map, but drives can be long — plan extra time in your timeline. Here are some common routes:
• Portland → Cannon Beach: ~1.5 hours
• Portland → Columbia River Gorge: ~45 minutes
• Portland → Mount Hood: ~1.5 hours
• Portland → Bend: ~3 hours
• Bend → Crater Lake: ~2.5 hours
• Cannon Beach → Samuel H. Boardman: 6+ hours
Fly Into:
PDX – Portland International Airport: Main hub, usually cheapest. Best for Coast, Gorge, and Mount Hood (and honestly fine for anywhere).
RDM – Redmond: Closest to Bend, Smith Rock, Sparks Lake. Smaller + pricier.
EUG – Eugene: Mid-size option for central/southern Oregon.
MFR – Medford: Closest to Crater Lake + southern Oregon. Expensive, limited flights.
Rental Cars:
Yes, you need one — no public transport near most elopement spots.
AWD/4WD recommended (chains or snow tires in winter for Hood + Crater Lake).
PERMIT INFO
Permits:
State Parks + Forests: Many popular elopement spots (like the coast, Columbia River Gorge, Silver Falls, and Smith Rock) fall under Oregon State Parks. A Special Use Permit may be required if you’re bringing guests, décor, or planning anything beyond a simple ceremony.
National Parks + Forests: For places like Crater Lake or Mount Hood National Forest, a Special Use Permit is often required — I’ll walk you through the process so you don’t have to stress.
Small Elopements: If it’s just the two of you with no set-up, many spots don’t require a permit at all.
Pro Tip: Permits can take a few weeks to process, so apply early. I help all my couples figure out what’s required for their location — you won’t be navigating this alone!
Officiants:
You can hire a professional officiant, have a loved one get ordained online, or keep it simple — I’m ordained and can legally marry you, too.
LEAVE NO TRACE
Oregon’s landscapes are wild and stunning — and part of why they feel so magical is because they’ve stayed protected. When you elope outdoors, it’s important to follow Leave No Trace (LNT) principles so these places stay just as beautiful for the next couple who comes along.
Here are a few easy ways to make your elopement eco-friendly:
1. Stay on Trails + Durable Surfaces: Those wildflower meadows at Rainier? They’re super fragile. Always stick to trails, rocks, or dirt surfaces — it keeps the landscape healthy and blooming for years to come.
2. Pack It In, Pack It Out: From champagne corks to picnic leftovers, everything we bring into the park needs to come back out with us. I’ll help pack a trash bag and make sure we leave your ceremony spot spotless.
3. Skip the Confetti: Confetti, rice, and even “biodegradable” glitter aren’t allowed — they harm wildlife and linger in the landscape. Instead, think alternatives: pop champagne, toss flower petals (from your florist, not store-bought), or grab some epic celebratory portraits without a toss at all.
4. Respect Wildlife: Olympic’s elk, Rainier’s marmots, and Cascades’ mountain goats are cute — but they’re wild. Admire them from a distance and never feed them (yes, even if they beg for your trail mix).
5. Be Considerate of Others: You may not have a traditional wedding crowd, but hikers, families, and photographers will likely be sharing the space. We’ll always keep your ceremony respectful, private, and unobtrusive.
Bottom line: Your elopement should leave the park just as beautiful as when you arrived — maybe even better. I’ll guide you through all of this so you can focus on the magic, knowing we’re doing right by these stunning places.
Planner + Stylist
Curated Mess Co. — masters of intentional, elevated styling with a modern edge. If you want your Washington elopement to feel like an editorial experience (but still cozy + true to you), they’re the team to have in your corner.
Florals
Brier + Ivy — romantic, garden-inspired florals that look like they were gathered from the mountains and meadows themselves. They’re incredible at weaving the PNW landscape into their designs, from wild bouquets to ceremony installs.
Hair + Makeup
Pacific Brides — adventure elopement beauty experts who travel to you and make sure your look lasts through wind, rain, and all the happy tears.
OREGON VENDOR RECOMMENDATIONS
The right vendors bring your elopement vision to life — and Washington is full of talented creatives who specialize in outdoor weddings. Here are a few of my favorites:
activities to add TO YOUR OREGON ELOPEMENT
paddle oregon's lakes
Start your day on Sparks Lake or Trillium Lake, gliding across calm morning water by canoe, kayak, or paddleboard.
hot springs soak
Unwind in one of Oregon’s natural hot springs — from rustic forest pools to remote desert tubs under the stars.
tidepooling + beach bonfires
Search for sea stars and tidepools along the coast, then cozy up with a fire on the beach (permits required in some areas).
Scenic hikes
From cliffside trails on the coast to red rock canyons in Central Oregon, there are endless hikes to explore before or after your vows.
snowy adventures
Mount Hood transforms into a winter wonderland — ski, snowboard, or snowshoe your way through epic alpine scenery.
waterfall hopping
The Columbia River Gorge is waterfall heaven — with everything from famous Multnomah Falls to hidden mossy cascades.
Make your Oregon elopement more than just a ceremony by weaving in adventures you’ll never forget:
elevate your elopement
Florals & Tablescapes – Bring in a florist to create a bouquet, boutonniere, or even a styled table for two. A simple picnic or private chef dinner can feel like a five-star celebration with candles, linens, and fresh flowers.
Personal Touches – Write letters to each other to read during your vows, exchange meaningful gifts, or incorporate traditions that matter to you. These little rituals make the day feel intimate and unforgettable.
Luxury Details – Think vow books, champagne towers, styled picnics, custom paper goods, or even renting fun décor pieces. These details add beauty and personality to your photos.
Including Guests – If you’re inviting a handful of loved ones, make it special for them too. Plan a group dinner at your Airbnb, hire a private chef, or organize a cozy bonfire with s’mores and stargazing. Elopements with guests can feel like a retreat rather than a traditional wedding.
Adventure Add-Ons – Elevate your day with an activity that feels like you — from kayaking at Sparks Lake to hiking a trail together, or popping champagne at a dramatic cliffside.
Just because you’re skipping the big wedding doesn’t mean you have to skip the magic. Elopements can be just as beautiful, detailed, and meaningful — sometimes even more so — when you add thoughtful touches that reflect your love story. Here are some of my favorite ways couples elevate their day:
Bottom line: Elopements are not “less” than weddings — they’re just more intentional. With the right touches, your day can feel just as luxurious and unforgettable while staying deeply personal.
Your OREGON ELOPEMENT MAP
By now you’ve seen all the best places to elope, where to stay, what to eat, and the adventures you can add — but sometimes it helps to see it all in one place. That’s why I created this interactive map for you!
You’ll find pins for Elopement locations (by coast, waterfalls, forests, mountains, and deserts), Restaurants (perfect for a post-vows meal or rehearsal dinner) & Activities and hikes (bonus adventures to make your trip unforgettable). Use it to dream, plan your route, or even turn your elopement into a full Oregon road trip.
REAL OREGON ELOPEMENT &
COUPLE INSPIRATION
Each of these couples created a day that felt completely true to them — and your Oregon elopement can be just as unique.
Cozy A-Frame Mount Hood Elopement
Khadija and Taryn exchanged intimate vows before retreating to a forest A-frame tucked beneath Mount Hood, where they shared a candlelit dinner and celebrated with slow, intentional moments.
a complete guide to planning your oregon coast elopement
Clara and Kevin embraced the wild, moody Oregon Coast with vows in the mist, a windswept beach ceremony, and cozy portraits along the shoreline as the waves crashed behind them.
oregon coast anniversary session
Elizabeth and Michael explored the dramatic coastline with playful, romantic portraits that blended moody skies, windswept dunes, and cozy connection by the waves.
kyra & caleb — stormy cannon beach engagement session
These two adventured along Cannon Beach with Haystack Rock as their backdrop, running barefoot through the sand, chasing the tide, and soaking in a golden coastal sunset.
backpacking adventure at trillium lake — sam & christian
Sam and Christian hiked in with backpacks (and pizza!) for a rainy, heartfelt elopement at Trillium Lake, surrounded by alpine trees and fog rolling over Mount Hood in the background.
Want to see what an Oregon elopement can really look like? Here are three of my favorite real stories:
LETS PLAN YOUR OREGON ELOPEMENT
Your Oregon elopement deserves to be more than just a quick ceremony — it should feel like an adventure, an experience, and the beginning of a new chapter you’ll never forget.
I’ll help you with location scouting, permits, timelines, and vendor recs — so you can focus on soaking up every moment. Whether you’re dreaming of a moody coast elopement, alpine lake vows, or a desert adventure under the stars, I’ll be right there documenting it all.
Let’s connect and start dreaming it up!
