How to elope in Washington

If you're idea of an epic elopement involves sharing your vows in a wild, surreal destination- Washington will go above and beyond!
As elopement experts, we have done a ton of research on eloping all over the world, and created in-depth guides for adventurous couples just like you!

Table of contents:

Emily

Owner + Lead Elopement Planner, Photographer & Videographer

MEET THE
LOVE UNCHARTED

team!

Heyyy, I'm Emily! The founder of Love Uncharted and the OG elopement photographer of the crew!
When I'm not busy planning and documenting epic wedding days, you can find me exploring on two wheels, loving on my fur babies, or day-dreaming about my next adventure!

yASMINE

Elopement Planner & Photographer

Elopements have allowed me to bring my love for photography and adventure together in such an epic way!
When I'm not scouting for locations or taking photos of an awesome couple on their wedding day, you can find me hitting the trails!

The Best Time to Elope in Washington:

When choosing your destination and date for your elopement there are several factors to consider- such as tourism, weather, and scenery. Each season brings something unique to the table, and there are pros and cons to eloping in Washington during every season!

Summer (July- September)

Summer is an incredible time to elope in Washington for many reasons- warm weather, wildflowers, and lower chances of rain! You also get to enjoy longer daylight hours and all of the trails and roads being open and accessible!

However, Washington is a very popular state for tourists in the summer. While the weather is ideal, be prepared for a lot of tourists, with imoacted traffic and wait times to enter popular destinations, like Washington's national parks.

Fall (Late September- November)

You know that iconic fog that really gives the moody and dramatic vibe? Add in the stunning fall colors of the foliage, crisp air, and temps in the 40's to 60's, and you've got a fall elopement in Washinton! There are less tourists during the fall, so you have a better chance at having some privacy during your elopement as well!

One thing to consider is that some areas of Washington can start seeing snowfall during the fall season which can impact roads and trails, so being flexible is crucial depending on where you want to elope in Washington.

Winter (December- March)

Winter in Washington is the perfect place to elope if you are dreaming of fog, snow, and stunning scenery! From a moody coast to snowcapped mountains, Washington still has so much variety to offer eloping couples!
If you are planning to elope in the winter, be prepared to face cold temperatures, and potential road/ trail closures. Having solid backup plans on hand is crucial when eloping somewhere with extreme winters.

Spring (April- June)

Parts of the state will start to come alive, however there are high chances that snow will still be lingering in higher elevations until late spring/ early summer. Spring is also the wettest time of year for Washington, so being flexible is important. if you're looking to enjoy roaring waterfalls, less crowds, warmer temperatures, and lush forests- Spring is the perfect time to elope!

Where to elope in Washington:

While we try to keep information about elopement locations updated as frequently as possible, things are always changing!
It's important to always do research and contact the national/ state parks in advance to get information on the latest guidelines, requirements, and restrictions!
When we help you design your epic elopement experience, I will always provide the most recent information regarding permits and guidelines for locations!
Be sure to leave no trace when visiting beautiful outdoor locations- it is crucial for the health and longevity of the environment.


The Pacific Coast:

There are several stunning beaches along the west side of Washington that are exactly what you picture when you think of the PNW! Consider Ruby Beach, Rialto Beach, Kalaloch (which is home to the "Tree of Life",) and Cape Flattery for a truly epic PNW coast experience!

Things to consider:

  • The tides are no joke, and can qickly go from nothing to something within minutes. When you're planning your elopement on the coast, be sure to check the ocean's tide schedule to get a better idea of what your coastal ceremony will be like.

The Mountains:

Washington is home to the epic Mount Rainier, which is what most people think of when they think of the mountains in Washington. However, there are so many other places with towering peaks! (Not to say Mount Rainier isn't fu*king epic- because it ABSOLOUTELY is!) Check out places like North Cascades, Mount Baker, Snoqualmie Pass. and Hurricane Ridge!

Our top five locations for elopements:

Olympic National Park
Mount Rainier National Park
North Cascades National Park
Deception Pass State Park

Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

While we 100% believe in transparency, as elopement experts we have dedicated a lot of time searching far and wide for hidden gem locations that are less crowded, and more surreal!
While we recommend general areas, gorgeous state and national parks, and other popular locations- we have a personal database of thousands of locations across the United States! When you book your elopement experience with us, we will help you find locations that perfectly suit your unique elopement.

Ready to start planning your epic elopement?
GET IN TOUCH!

Obtaining a marriage license in the state of washington

If you're looking to obtain your marriage license in the state of Washington, here's what you need to know and what you will need to bring when picking up your license:

  • You can obtain a marriage license in any county of Washington, even if you are eloping in a different county.
  • Both parties must present in person a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, state-issued ID, passport, military ID, or Tribal/BIA card.
  • There is a three-day waiting period from the day you apply to the earliest day you can legally get married.
  • Washington requires two witnesses and an officiant to sign the marriage license.

A marriage license in Washington can cost anywhere from $64- $172 depending on which county you obtain your license from. Many areas have risen the price to $172 in 2025.

Washington has so much more to offer than just epic views...

When most people are thinking of eloping, they don't intitally think to include some epic activities and experiences into their elopement timeline! However, not only does it make for some badass photos, it also fills up the day with some excitment versus driving around and looking for scenic spots!

There are so many fun things you can do in Washington, such as:
  • Having a picnic on the beach
  • Boating and paddling
  • Fishing
  • Tidepooling
  • Hiking and Backpacking
  • Whale watching tours (one of our FAVE activities! We highly recommend PudgetSound in Port Townsend!)
  • Camping
  • Skiing
  • Snowshoeing
  • Snowboarding
  • Snowmobiling

You need a Washington photographer who truly understands epic elopements

We have spent years mastering the art of elopements in some of the most surreal and epic destinations across the globe, and Washington is one of our favorite places to plan epic wedding days!
While we're pretty good at documenting the adventure (if i do say so myself,) we also do SO MUCH MORE for our adventurous couples.

Some things you can expect when booking your elopement with us in Washington is:
  • Experts who have spent years planning unique elopements.
  • A team of two hype girls who are honored to celebrate your big day with you.
  • Expert advice on locations, weather, and other logistics.
  • A timeline that is designed to keep your day running smoothly (as well as a backup plan because well, it's Washington!)
  • Help booking other vendors, such as HMUA's, florists, private chefs, etc.
  • Recommendations on local activities that can add some fun to your elopement.
  • Answers to all of your questions!

Washington
ELOPEMENT PACKAGES

Photo and Photo + Video Packages Available.

What Every Washington Elopement Experience Includes:

From 4 Hours to Multiple Days of Coverage that Preserves your Epic Day

In-Depth Planning to create your Personalized Elopement Experience

No Added Fees- All Travel Costs for the Whole Crew are Covered

Experiences Starting at $3,400
Couples Typically invest $5,400

Pricing Includes Tax + Travel.

FAQ ABOUT ELOPING in Washington

"Do I need a permit to elope in Washington?"

"Do I need a permit to elope in Washington?"

Some locations, such as national parks and state parks, typically require a special use permit or a wedding ceremony permit when you are having a ceremony within the park. Some parks only require a permit if the wedding/ elopement will have over a certain number of people within your group. If you are just enjoying the park and having photos done, you may not need a permit for your elopement, but a photo/ film permit may be necessary for your photographer or videographer.
Be sure to check each location's regulations and requirements to ensure your elopement day goes as smooth as possible!
If you book your elopement experience with us, we will help you with all of the logistics and legalities of your elopement day!

"How much does it cost to elope in Washington?"

"How much does it cost to elope in Washington?"

You can elope in Washington for as little as your marriage license! Marriage licenses in Washington typically cost between $64 and $172, and if you're visiting national or state parks you may need to pay an entry fee. We typically find that our couples spend anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000+ depending on what they have planned for their experience! Keep in mind that this also includes airefare, lodging for several nights, rental car, wedding attire, vendors, activities and more!
Choosing to elope doesn't necessarily mean choosing the cheaper option (though it definitely can be,) it just means you are investing into an experience that is worth the money! Think about it, you're basically having your dream vacation AND marrying your best friend!

"When should we book our elopement photographer & videographer?"

"When should we book our elopement photographer & videographer?"

We can plan an epic experience with as little as a few weeks notice, however, we recommend you book your elopement photographer and videographer as soon as possible- even if you aren't sure when or where you will elope!
We have helped couples plan a truly epic wedding day when all they knew is they wanted somewhere scenic and full of opportunities, so even if your ideas are vague, don't hesitate to reach out!
There are endless possibilities when it comes to planning a truly unique and epic elopement! While these are only a handful of adventurous ideas, there are no rules nor limits when it comes to what your wedding day can look like.
The most important thing is that your elopement makes your wildest dreams come true, and that the day truly aligns with you and your partner!

Not sure where to start when planning your epic elopement?
We are a team of adenture-loving elopement experts who have planned and photographed unique elopements across the world!
Click here to learn more about eloping with Love Uncharted!

Follow us on Instagram!