Mt Rainier Elopement Guide
Mt Rainier Elopement Guide
Everything you need to know about planning your Elopement at Mount Rainier
Washington’s best-known mountain - the one that peeks over the skyline of Seattle and makes an appearance as you drive through the state on a sunny day. Washington’s first national park was built around the large stratovolcano known as Mount Rainier (or Mount Tahoma, as it was originally called), and if you take one look at the glaciers, mountain peaks, dense forests, wildflower fields, and alpine lakes, it’s easy to see why couples choose to elope at Mt Rainier National Park! If you want to tie the knot in a gorgeous location, and have a wedding day that is unique and tailored to you, a Mount Rainier elopement might be just what you’re looking for - so keep reading to learn all about the park, and how to plan your day!
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know to get married in Mount Rainier National Park!
When to Elope in Mt. Rainier
Top Places to Get Married in the Mt Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier National Park Permits + Marriage Laws
Mount Rainier Packing List
Mount Rainier National Park Elopement Packages
Mount Rainier Elopement Planning Logistics
There’s so much to explore at mount rainier, but before you get into the nitty gritty of elopement planning, here are a few things you should know!
getting there
If you’re traveling from out of state and need to hop on a plane, the closest airport will be the SeaTac International Airport, located in south Seattle. You’ll have no problem finding a flight from any major airport. Once you’re in Washington, you will need a car to explore the park - but the roads are paved and doable in any vehicle (unless you’re planning to elope in the snow).
mount rainier national park permits:
Permitting: Even if your ceremony is just the two of you, the park requires that you apply for a wedding permit - and you definitely don’t want to be stopped by a park ranger on the big day!
You can find the application permit at NPS.GOV. you’ll need to fill out the application, and send in a $60 application fee. they recommend doing this at least four weeks before your ceremony, but doing this ahead of time will save you some stress!
Washington State Marriage Laws
To make sure you’re legally married after your elopement day, you’ll need to fill out some paperwork.
MARRIAGE LICENSE:
You’ll need a Washington marriage license to elope at mount rainier. luckily, you can apply online at most county clerks’ offices!
You can apply at any office in the state, but king county is the easiest, as they offer an ONLINE APPLICATION.
Washington marriage licenses are good for 60 days, but there is a 3 day waiting period, which means you need to wait at least three days after receiving your marriage license to use it.
OFFICIANT
an ordained officiant will need to sign your marriage license. you can hire an elopement officiant, or have a friend or family member get ordained! if there’s someone you trust to perform your ceremony, they can go to ULC.ORG, and in just a few minutes they’ll be able to officiate.
WITNESSES
two witnesses are required to sign your marriage license as well, but the only rule is that they need to be over 18. which means if you don’t have any guests, your vendors can sign! you can even find two people at the trailhead or at your ceremony spot - everyone is always excited to help out!
IF YOUR NOT 100% SURE WHERE YOU WANT TO GET MARRIED - HERES A FEW OTHER AMAZING ELOPEMENT GUIDES AND LOCATIONS TO CHECK OUT!
When to get married at Mount Rainier National Park
Best time of year to have your Mt Rainier Elopement?
The higher elevation areas of the park will stay snow-covered into mid-summer, so it’s important to plan for the weather!
Winter is the best time to visit if you want to avoid crowds - but of course, this means you’ll be eloping in the snow. If you’re feeling adventurous, the winter wonderland at Mount Rainier is stunning! Just know that many of the roads will be closed.
Spring is a great time to elope in the lower elevation areas of the park. As the snow melts, the wildflower meadows start to bloom, and the park’s waterfalls are incredible.
Summer is the best time for a Mount Rainier elopement if you want to hike. In July and August, most of the snow will have melted, and the higher elevation trails will be accessible, and the weather will be perfect for hiking. This is also the busiest time of year, so be sure to plan your elopement for a weekday!
Fall you’ll get to see the leaves change, and you might catch the first dustings of snow! Early fall can be a great time to elope, as the crowds are much thinner, but the weather is often still warm enough for hiking.
Best Time of Day to Elope at Mount Rainier
Choosing the best time of day for a Mount Rainier elopement depends on various factors such as the season, weather conditions, and personal preferences. Here are some general considerations:
Sunrise:
Pros: Soft and warm morning light, fewer crowds, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Cons: Early wake-up, cooler temperatures, and potential morning mist or fog.
Midday:
Pros: Consistent lighting, great visibility, and warmer temperatures.
Cons: Busier with visitors, harsh shadows, and less dramatic lighting for photography.
Sunset:
Pros: Golden hour light, stunning colors in the sky, and a romantic atmosphere.
Cons: More crowded than sunrise, cooler temperatures, and potential for changing weather.
Late Afternoon:
Pros: Beautiful, warm light without the early morning wake-up.
Cons: Slightly busier than the morning, but usually quieter than sunset.
Where to Elope at Mount Rainier National Park
There is an abundance of stunning locations in the vicinity of the park that serve as perfect settings for your elopement. The choice of where you can hold your ceremony, however, comes with certain restrictions, contingent on the size of your group. Should you decide to elope at Mount Rainier, it is imperative to reach out to the park office beforehand to obtain a comprehensive list of permitted locations, ensuring that you make an informed decision when selecting your spot. Rest assured, both before and after your ceremony, you have the freedom to explore any corner of the park. To enhance your elopement day experience, consider exploring these notable places within the park.
SUNRISE VISITORS CENTER:
Situated at an impressive elevation of 6,400 feet, Sunrise offers an unparalleled vantage point, providing sweeping 360-degree views of the surrounding valleys, including the majestic peaks of Mt. Rainier and Mount Adams. What sets Sunrise apart is its accessibility—being the highest point on Mt. Rainier that can be reached by vehicle. This means that even if you prefer not to embark on a mountain hike, you can still revel in the breathtaking vistas that this elevated location has to offer, especially during sunrise. It's an ideal option for those seeking awe-inspiring scenery without the need for an extensive trek.Sunrise Point: Spectacular views of the sunrise over the mountain.
Emmons Vista: Overlooks the Emmons Glacier and provides a stunning setting.
Burroughs Mountain Trail:
Description: This trail takes you to Burroughs Mountain, offering spectacular views of Mount Rainier, Emmons Glacier, and the surrounding valleys.
Highlights: Alpine landscapes, panoramic views, and the opportunity to explore multiple Burroughs Mountain viewpoints.
Fremont Lookout Trail:
Description: A moderately easy hike to Fremont Lookout, where you'll have stunning views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding wilderness.
Highlights: Historic fire lookout, wildflowers, and a more intimate setting compared to some of the busier trails.
Sourdough Ridge Trail:
Description: Sourdough Ridge Trail is a relatively easy trail with outstanding views of Mount Rainier, the Tatoosh Range, and the Sunrise area.
Highlights: Expansive meadows, wildflowers, and the chance to enjoy breathtaking views with a relatively short hike.
Dege Peak Trail:
Description: Dege Peak offers panoramic views of Mount Rainier, the Emmons Glacier, and surrounding peaks. It's a moderate hike with a rewarding summit.
Highlights: Alpine scenery, wildflowers, and a less crowded atmosphere compared to some of the more popular trails.
Sunrise Rim Trail:
Description: This trail takes you along the rim of the Sunrise area, providing excellent views of Mount Rainier, meadows, and surrounding peaks.
Highlights: Varied landscapes, opportunities for wildlife sightings, and a trail that can be tailored to different lengths based on your preferences.
PARIDISE VISITOR CENTER:
Paradise Visitor Center boasts some of the most breathtaking mountain views imaginable, complemented by an abundance of exquisite flowers that add a touch of natural beauty to the surroundings. What adds to the appeal of this location is the variety it offers in terms of intimate ceremony spots. Numerous little hikes radiate from the center, each leading to distinct destinations that evoke different atmospheres—ideal for tailoring the setting to the unique way you envision exchanging your vows.
An exceptional feature of Paradise is its accessibility. Approximately half of the trails are either paved or designed to accommodate strollers and wheelchairs, ensuring ease of mobility for your guests. This accessibility factor is particularly advantageous if you plan on having friends and family join you, making it convenient for them to reach the ceremony site and share in the magical moments of your special day.
Skyline Trail: Skyline Trail is one of the most popular trails in Paradise, offering stunning panoramic views of Mount Rainier, wildflower meadows, and the surrounding landscape.
Highlights: Panorama Point, Myrtle Falls, and the gorgeous alpine scenery make this trail a fantastic choice for elopements.
Nisqually Vista Loop: This moderate loop trail provides views of the Nisqually Glacier and Mount Rainier. It's a shorter option, allowing for an intimate and picturesque elopement setting.
Highlights: Nisqually Glacier, subalpine meadows, and diverse flora.
Pinnacle Peak Trail: Pinnacle Peak Trail is a moderately challenging hike that leads to stunning views of Mount Rainier, the Tatoosh Range, and the surrounding valleys.
Highlights: Alpine landscapes, rocky terrain, and a sense of seclusion make this trail a unique choice for elopements.
Deadhorse Creek Trail: This trail takes you through wildflower meadows, providing opportunities for a more secluded elopement experience. It's a bit less crowded than some of the more popular trails in Paradise.
Highlights: Wildflowers, views of Mount Rainier, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Mazama Ridge: Mazama Ridge offers stunning views of Mount Rainier and the Tatoosh Range. The trail takes you through subalpine meadows, providing a picturesque backdrop for your elopement.
Highlights: Expansive views, wildflowers, and a sense of being surrounded by the beauty of nature.
STEVENS CANYON:
Embark on a scenic journey covering 7 miles with an elevation gain of approximately 700 feet, winding through a trail that not only offers a moderate challenge but also presents an opportunity for capturing stunning photographs at every turn. The route passes by a series of enchanting waterfalls, creating picturesque moments that beg to be immortalized on film.
For those preferring an easier, paved experience, the Stevens Canyon Road area is a viable option. However, if you're up for a more adventurous trek, the full 7-mile route awaits. Along this path, you'll encounter the captivating Box Canyon, featuring a glacier and a distinctive U-shaped canyon. The presence of awe-inspiring rock walls within the canyon further enhances the visual spectacle, creating a truly remarkable sight for those seeking a memorable and immersive hiking experience.
Silver Falls Loop Trail: This moderate loop takes you to the stunning Silver Falls, which cascades over a series of rocky ledges. The lush forest and the waterfall make for a picturesque setting.
Highlights: Silver Falls, dense forest, and the scenic Stevens Canyon.
Grove of the Patriarchs Trail: This easy, family-friendly trail leads you through an ancient forest with towering old-growth trees. A suspension bridge adds to the enchanting atmosphere.
Highlights: Giant trees, a suspension bridge, and a serene forest setting.
Box Canyon Loop Trail: This short loop provides views of the deep and narrow Box Canyon, where the turbulent waters of the Muddy Fork Cowlitz River flow through a narrow gorge.
Highlights: Box Canyon, views of the river, and interesting geological formations.
Stevens Van Trump Historical Monument Trail: This trail takes you to the memorial for P.B. Van Trump and Hazard Stevens, the first known people to successfully summit Mount Rainier. The trail offers panoramic views.
Highlights: Historical monument, panoramic views of Stevens Canyon, and potential wildlife sightings.
Reflection Lakes Trail: Although Reflection Lakes is accessible by car, there are walking trails around the lakes that offer beautiful views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding landscape.
Highlights: Reflection Lakes, stunning views of Mount Rainier, and the opportunity for a serene lakeside elopement.
NISQUALLY ENTRANCE:
The Nisqually Entrance at Mount Rainier stands out for its accessibility and captivating scenery, making it an inviting starting point for exploration. However, it's important to be aware that a majority of the trails originating from this entrance tend to be relatively short in length.
Despite their brevity, these trails offer a delightful and immersive experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty of Mount Rainier without committing to an extensive trek. Whether you're seeking a leisurely stroll through nature or have time constraints, the trails from the Nisqually Entrance provide a wonderful introduction to the splendors of the park, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer concise yet picturesque hiking adventures.. Here are five trails near the Nisqually Entrance that can offer scenic locations for an elopement:
Nisqually Vista Loop: This short loop provides stunning views of Mount Rainier and the Nisqually Glacier. It's an easy trail, making it accessible for all skill levels.
Highlights: Panoramic views, wildflowers, and the Nisqually Glacier.
Kautz Creek Trail: The Kautz Creek Trail is a relatively short trail that takes you through a peaceful forest and along the Kautz Creek.
Highlights: Tranquil creek, forested surroundings, and a sense of seclusion.
Lower Chenuis Falls Trail: This short trail leads to Lower Chenuis Falls, a beautiful waterfall in the Nisqually River valley.
Highlights: Waterfall, forested trail, and the Nisqually River.
Twin Firs Trail: The Twin Firs Trail is a short loop through the forest near Longmire. It's an easy hike suitable for all skill levels.
Highlights: Old-growth forest, peaceful surroundings, and the Twin Firs.
Trail of the Shadows: Located near Longmire, the Trail of the Shadows is an interpretive trail that takes you through the historic site and old-growth forest.
Highlights: Historical elements, old-growth trees, and a relatively easy walk.
CABIN OR CAMPGROUND:
The cool thing about this is- you chose it. You can pick any campground or cabin and there will be endless areas that you can have your special day just how you want it. You can choose somewhere special where you used to go camping with your family when you were younger, or quaint little cabin in the woods with the best trees in a secluded area to exchange your vows. Locations like this also allows somewhere for you and family to stay if you are having others join you.
Where to stay for your Mt. Rainier Elopement?
When eloping at Mount Rainier, you'll find various accommodation options ranging from lodges and cabins to nearby towns and camping sites. When planning your stay, consider the time of year and availability, as accommodations can fill up quickly during peak seasons. It's a good idea to make reservations in advance, especially if you're planning to elope during a busy time. Additionally, the biggest thing when finding the best place to stay for your elopement, is choosing a town closest to the park entrance where your planning to elope.
Packwood
Packwood, Washington, is located on the southeastern side of Mount Rainier National Park. The two main entrances that are closest to Packwood are the Stevens Canyon Entrance and the Ohanapecosh Entrance. If you are planning your elopement off Sunrise Visitor Center or at Tipsoo Lake - this is where you’ll likely want to stay.
Ashford
The small community of Ashford is close to the park entrance, and you'll find various cabins, lodges, and vacation rentals in this area. Best for elopements happening off or near the Paradise side of Mt. Rainier
GreenWater
Greenwater, Washington, is situated on the northwest side of Mount Rainier National Park. The entrance that is typically closest is the White River Entrance which is also the entrance that provides access to the Sunrise area and the White River Campground
Mt. Rainier Elopement Packing List:
Crafting a packing list is essential to ensure a seamless and enjoyable elopement at Mount Rainier. The mountainous terrain, varying weather conditions, and specific regulations of the national park demand careful preparation. A comprehensive packing list helps you stay organized, covering everything from legal documents for the ceremony to gear suited for the unpredictable weather. This way, you can focus on the beauty of your elopement without worrying about missing crucial items.
Travel Documents:
National Park pass or entrance fees
Permits for the elopement ceremony
Map of Mount Rainier National Park and park information
Clothing:
Weather-appropriate wedding attire
Sturdy and comfortable hiking boots
Layers for temperature changes
Waterproof and windproof jackets
Sun hats and sunglasses
Gloves and scarves for cooler temperatures
Hiking Gear:
Backpack for essentials during the ceremony
First-aid kit
Reusable water bottles
High-energy snacks (granola bars, trail mix)
Hiking socks and comfortable under layers
Sunscreen and lip balm
Bug spray
Ceremony & Photography:
Marriage license and necessary legal documents
Personalized vows or speeches
Professional photographer/videographer
Tripod for stability during shots
Rings securely stored
Any props or special items for photos
Refreshments:
Bottled water
Lightweight snacks for sustenance
Portable picnic set if planning a celebratory meal
Champagne or beverages for toasting
Weather Preparedness:
Warm blankets or wraps
Umbrella or rain gear
Extra layers for cooler temperatures
Sunscreen and sun protection items
Emergency Preparedness:
List of emergency contacts
Knowledge of the nearest medical facilities
Basic first aid kit
Emergency cash
Cleanup Supplies:
Trash bags for any waste
Leave No Trace principles – preserving the beauty of Mount Rainier
Transportation:
Confirm transportation details within Mount Rainier National Park
Map or navigation app for the park
Check road and weather conditions if driving
Timeline and Planning:
Detailed timeline for the elopement day
Confirmation of any reservations or permits
Consideration of sunrise or sunset timing for the ceremony
Comfort Items:
Portable chairs or cushions for seating during the ceremony
Blankets or wraps for comfort
Hand warmers or cooling towels depending on the weather
Entertainment:
Music playlist and portable speaker
Binoculars for enjoying Mount Rainier's scenic views
Other:
Dry bag for valuables
Camera lens wipes for clear photos
Local information and contact details for park rangers or services in Mount Rainier National Park.
Mount Rainier Elopement Photographer
thats me, Rylee!
Not to toot my own horn, but an elopement photographer will be one of the most important things you can add to your mount rainier elopement. not just because of the photos that will let you relive the best day of your life, but because they’ll be your guide throughout the planning process!
As an elopement photographer, my job is to help couples plan a day that’s perfect and unique to them. this includes location recommendations, permit info, vendor recommendations, and everything you’ll need to plan your day. if you’re ready to elope, contact me!
A few of my favorite mount rainier national park vendors
Photographer + Videographer: @THERYLEEANDCO - hey, thats us!
Florals: @RUSTEDVASECO
Cakes: SIFT AND GATHER
Mt Rainier Elopement Packages
Planning and Resources:
From phone chats, happy hour, brewery dates to multiple questionnaires. i want to get to know your love & values so i can create a timeless experience that reflects the most authentic you that will last forever through imagery
Complementary planning assistance from me
Locations ideas, checklists, timelines, & vendor recommendations
Fully edited, high-resolution photos
Custom online gallery with unlimited downloads
Personal printing rights
Sneak peek photos
tTaveling included
