Mount Rainier Elopement Photographer

Artfully Capturing & Planning Elopements in Mount Rainier National Park

Planning to Elope at Mount Rainier?

You’re in the right place.

From sunrise at Tipsoo Lake to alpine hikes, wildflower meadows, quiet forests, and panoramic views of Mount Rainier, we help you create an elopement experience that feels like you, not a traditional wedding squeezed into a few hours.

We don’t just show up with cameras. We help you choose a location, build your timeline, plan around the season and weather, navigate the logistics, and create space for the moments that actually matter.

And because we photograph elopements throughout Washington year after year, we know that a beautiful Mount Rainier elopement isn’t just about finding a pretty viewpoint.

It’s about knowing when to go, where to go, how to get there, and how to make the most of your time in the park.

MEET YOUR

Mount Rainier Elopement Photographers

running wild studio team

Mount Rainier isn’t just somewhere we photograph, we consider it part of our backyard.

We’ve spent years exploring Washington’s mountains and photographing couples throughout Mount Rainier National Park. We know the locations, trails, seasonal changes, weather patterns, lighting, and the little logistical details that can make your day feel effortless—or completely change your plans.

Our role goes far beyond photography. We’re your photographers, planners, location guides, timeline creators, and adventure buddies throughout the process.

So if you’ve never been to Mount Rainier before, that’s okay. You don’t need to arrive with a perfect plan. That’s what we’re here for.

150 +

Love Stories Captured in the great outdoors

6+

years of planning & photographing elopements

4 +

International Photography Awards

15+

States & Countries Traveled

Why Choose an Elopement or Micro Wedding in Mount Rainier?

Your wedding day doesn’t have to fit into someone else’s idea of what it should be, it can simply reflect who you are together.

Elopements and micro weddings aren’t about running away from tradition, it’s about running toward a day that feels true to you.

What Does a Mount Rainier Elopement Day Look Like?

One of our favorite things about elopements is that there isn’t a formula. Your day could look something like this:

Getting Ready

Start your day in your A-frame Airbnb where you get ready by yourself or with loved ones.

First Look

Take a quiet moment together before the adventure begins.

Hike & Explore

Spend time on the trail, stop for photographs, take in the views, and actually enjoy being together.

Your Ceremony

Exchange vows somewhere meaningful, whether that’s just the two of you or surrounded by your closest people.

Celebrate

Have a picnic, pop some bubbly, eat your favorite snacks, call your family, or do something completely ridiculous together.

Sunset

End the day somewhere beautiful with a final round of portraits.

Or don’t do any of that.

Maybe your perfect day is a drive-up location somewhere pretty for sunrise, a private ceremony, and a dinner with your loved ones afterward.

Your elopement or micro wedding should fit you, not the other way around.

“They put their heart and soul into your day so you can fully take it all in, enjoy every moment — both big and small — and simply trust them to work their magic”

Mount Rainier Elopement Locations

There isn’t one perfect place to elope at Mount Rainier. The park is huge, and each area offers a completely different experience.

Whether you want sweeping mountain views, alpine lakes, old-growth forests, wildflowers, or a more remote adventure, we’ll help you find a location that fits your vision, your people, and the kind of day you want to have.

Sunrise & Chinook

Alpine views, wildflowers & iconic Mount Rainier landscapes

The Sunrise and Chinook Pass areas are some of our favorite places for couples who want big mountain views and a true alpine experience. Think wildflower-filled meadows, dramatic peaks, beautiful sunrise light, and plenty of opportunities to explore.

Paradise & Longmire

Wildflowers, waterfalls, forests & classic Rainier views

On the southwest side of the mountain, Paradise and Longmire offer a little bit of everything. From alpine meadows and sweeping views to lush forests and waterfalls, this area is especially beautiful for couples who want variety without spending their entire day on the trail.

Ohanapecosh

Old-growth forests, rivers & a quieter side of Rainier

Looking for something that feels a little more secluded? Ohanapecosh takes you into the lush, forested side of Mount Rainier. Towering trees, moss-covered trails, rushing rivers, and peaceful surroundings make this area perfect for couples who love the forest as much as the mountains.

Mowhich Lake & Carbon River

Remote, wild & perfect for an adventure

On the northwest side of the park, Mowich Lake and Carbon River offer a more rugged and remote experience. This is where we’d send couples looking to get away from the more popular areas and spend their wedding day immersed in the wilderness.

Not sure which area in Mount Rainier is right for you? That’s where we come in.

We’ll help you choose a location based on the experience you want, how much hiking you’re up for, the time of year, your guest count, and what you want your photographs to feel like.

Want to dive deeper into locations, permits, seasons, and everything else you need to know? Read our complete guide:

WHAT ELSE YOU SHOULD KNOW

More Information About Getting Married in Mount Rainier

Rainforest Icon

When is the best time to elope in Mount rainier

Do you need a permit to elope in mount rainier?

Mount Rainier Micro weddings

Not every couple wants a two-person elopement. Maybe you want your parents there. Maybe your siblings. Maybe twenty people.

We photograph intimate weddings and micro weddings at Mount Rainier, too.

What Makes a Mount Rainier Elopement So Special?

Mount Rainier gives you the opportunity to make your wedding day feel like an actual adventure.

Mountain Views

Wake up to Mount Rainier towering above you and spend your wedding day surrounded by some of Washington’s most incredible landscapes.

Alpine Meadows & Wildflowers

Summer brings colorful wildflowers to many of the park’s higher elevations, creating an incredible setting for portraits and intimate ceremonies.

Unique Accomodations

From A-frame cabins to lodges,the area offers amazing experiences wether you are planning an elopement or micro wedding.

Open Year-round

Mount Rainier’s beauty knows no season. Whether you choose to wed amidst wildflowers in the summer, under colorful foliage in the fall, or against a snowy backdrop in the winter.

Forests, Lakes & Trails

Your elopement doesn’t have to happen at a famous viewpoint. We can incorporate forests, lakes, trails, waterfalls, and quieter corners of the park into your day.

Best of the Best Destination Wedding Photos 2024 & 2025

Awards & Features

We are honored to have won a few awards and to be recognized for the artistry and thoughtfulness that go into creating our photographs. Each image we capture reflects our passion for storytelling and our commitment to preserving the most meaningful moments in our clients’ lives.

Best of the Best Destination Wedding Photos 2024

International Wedding
Photographer of the Year

Elopement Legend Award for outstanding storytelling

We don’t just take award winning photos—we curate experiences and capture the heartfelt moments that make your wedding day unforgettable and your photos timeless!

TESTIMONIALS

What our couples have to say about working with Running Wild

Rebecca & Wendy

I’m forever grateful that we were photographed by Janelle. She’s a true artist and an all around kind and creative person.

lesbian couple cheering on their elopement day in mount rainier national park
couple eloping in the mountains

Rachel & Ryan

From the very first call you can tell they were experienced, organized, hard working, had amazing ideas, suggestions, and honestly were just a very fun to work with.

Xin & Eugene

My wife and I had such a fun time. Sanne’s energy kept us going throughout the day. The hardest part was having to call it a day and part ways.

Mount rainier elopement photographer capturing wedding

Mount Rainier Elopement Packages

As your Mount Rainier elopement photographer, we design packages for couples seeking an intentional, stress-free experience in one of Washington’s most iconic national parks. Whether you’re planning a just-us-two adventure or an intimate gathering with family, we create a personalized experience that feels effortless, adventurous, and true to you.

Frequently Asked Questions about Eloping in Mount Rainier National Park

The cost of hiring a Mount Rainier elopement photographer typically ranges from $5,700 to $10,000, depending on the amount of coverage you book. Unlike traditional wedding photographers, elopement photographers do much more than just take photos—they help plan and guide your entire experience to ensure a seamless, stress-free adventure.

Running Wild’s Elopement Packages & Pricing

Why Do Elopement Photographers Cost More Than Traditional Wedding Photographers?

Elopement photography isn’t just about capturing beautiful images; it’s about crafting an unforgettable experience. Here’s what sets an elopement photographer apart:

Photography That Tells Your Story – With our deep knowledge of outdoor lighting, landscapes, and natural elements, we ensure your photos are stunning, authentic, and full of emotion.

Customized Location Research – We help you find the perfect, secluded spot in Mount Rainier that aligns with your vision, crowd levels, and accessibility needs.

Permits & Park Regulations Assistance – We guide you through the permit process to ensure everything is legally compliant, saving you time and stress.

Expert Planning & Timeline Creation – From choosing the best lighting to mapping out your day, we help design a timeline that maximizes your experience.

Adventure & Weather Preparation – Mount Rainier’s weather can be unpredictable, but with our expertise, you’ll know exactly what to expect and pack.

That’s completely up to you! Mount Rainier has locations ranging from easy-access viewpoints to multi-mile adventures, and we’ll help you find an option that fits your comfort level.

Absolutely! We’ll recommend locations based on your vision, hiking ability, guest count, season, and the experience you want. Explore our Mount Rainier elopement guide →

Summer is popular for wildflowers and alpine views, while fall brings crisp air and changing colors. Winter offers a snowy adventure, and spring can be unpredictable. Explore our Mount Rainier elopement guide →

Yes! We’ll point you in the right direction and help you understand what’s needed for your day. 

It depends on where you want to go. Dogs have restrictions in many areas of Mount Rainier National Park, but we’ll help you find an option that works for your pup.

Mountain weather can change quickly, so we build flexibility into your timeline and help you prepare for different conditions. If needed, we’ll work with you on a backup plan so you can still have an amazing day.

Absolutely! We photograph everything from just-the-two-of-you elopements to intimate micro weddings with your closest family and friends.

Whether you’re feeling inspired, excited, or just beginning to plan your elopement, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Reach out to Start Planning Your Mount Rainier Elopement

The next steps to inquire.

✅ Check our Pricing Page

✅ We will get back to you within 48 hours

✅ Schedule a 50-60 minute Zoom Call

You don’t need to know what, when, or where yet!