Olympic National Park Elopement Photographer

Adventure filled Elopements — Your love story artfully captured in Olympic National Park

For the couples that are wild at heart and are looking for a personalized and adventurous wedding experience in the Olympic Peninsula…

HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT…

We are looking for a stress-free in the moment wedding experience where we get to focus on each other.
We want to plan intentional and meaningful activities and create a day that is totally unique to us and our relationship.
We want to get married in a place that feels true to us (AKA nature). No stuffy wedding venues!

What if we told you, you can have all that and so much more!

Your Olympic National Park elopement deserves to be as wild and breathtaking as the landscape itself. As your Olympic National Park elopement photographer, we help you plan, explore, and capture every adventure-filled moment surrounded by alpine meadows, waterfalls, and sweeping views of the mountain.

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Why choose an Elopement or outdoor Micro Wedding in Olympic National Park?

Over the years we have been told by society what we need to buy or do to have a successful wedding…. But…when you take away all the outdated expectations of how a wedding is supposed to be, you get endless possibilities to create something that is unique and meaningful to you.

Now, picture this: Elopements and Micro Weddings are your ticket to a day that’s all about you and the great outdoors. You call the shots – from the guest list to the fun activities, it’s your show. And yes, you can totally have your cake and devour it too!

What Your Olympic National Park Wedding Day Could Look Like?

Close your eyes for a second and imagine this —

Go explore the vibrant tide pools along the Olympic Coast, where sea stars, anemones, and other marine life create a magical setting. Exchange your vows as the sun dips below the horizon, casting golden light over the rugged coastal rocks and crashing waves at Ruby Beach.

Plan a two-day or multi-day wedding experience to enjoy the best of both worlds. Day 1 can focus on exploring Hurricane Ridge and holding your ceremony with family, while Day 2 could include hiking through a mossy forest while visiting the stunning Hoh Rainforest.

Make your day as unique as you are by including your favorite hobby! We’ve seen couples fly fish in crystal-clear streams, go off-roading to jaw-dropping overlooks, paddle away in kayaks, play board games, camp out in style, and so much more. What adventure fits your love story?

LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW TO ELOPE

Why Elope in Olympic National Park?

Olympic National Park is the perfect place to elope if you want dramatic, wildly diverse scenery all in one location. Say your vows on the rugged coastline at Ruby Beach or Rialto Beach, wander beneath the moss-covered trees of the Hoh Rainforest, or catch sunset at Hurricane Ridge with sweeping mountain views. Olympic National Park elopement gives you stunning backdrops, endless adventure, and a truly unforgettable Washington elopement experience.

Not sure where to start? Our how to elope guide walks you through every step.

1. Mountain Views

Olympic National Park boasts breathtaking mountain views, with the majestic peaks of the Olympic Mountains dominating the skyline. From rugged summits to lush valleys, the park offers a diverse array of landscapes that captivate visitors with their natural beauty and grandeur.

3. Rainforest

Olympic National Park’s rainforest is a lush and verdant paradise, filled with ancient trees, moss-draped branches, and vibrant flora. Visitors can wander along moss-covered trails, and listen to the soothing sounds of cascading waterfalls.

2. Olympic Peninsula

Olympic National Park’s coastline offers rugged beauty with sea stacks, cliffs, and beaches. Visitors can explore tide pools, stroll along shores, and marvel at the Pacific Ocean meeting the Olympic Peninsula.

4. Open Year-round

With its year-round beauty and accessibility, Olympic National Park offers an ideal setting for elopements at any time of the year. Whether it’s the lush rainforests, rugged coastline, or majestic mountains, the park provides a stunning backdrop for couples seeking a timeless and memorable ceremony.

5. Easily Accessible

Olympic National Park is ideal for couples seeking easily accessible locations, with the most scenic views reachable within a mile of hiking and plenty of paved trails throughout the park. Whether exploring lush forests or enjoying panoramic vistas, the park’s accessibility ensures a memorable experience for all.

Convinced that Olympic National Park is the perfect location for your elopement but don’t know where to start? Check out our Mount Rainier Elopement Guide with all the information you need to get started!

HOW TO ELOPE IN OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK | GUIDE

Because that’s what eloping in Olympic National Park feels like — intimate, wild, and completely your own.

Explore our Olympic National Park elopement resources and read stories from other couples who tied the knot in Mt. Rainier National Park.

Olympic National Park Elopement Inspiration

VIEW MORE RESOURCES

Frequently Asked Questions about Eloping in Olympic National Park

The cost of hiring a Olympic National Park elopement photographer typically ranges from $5,500 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.

Here are some top stay options by area:

Lake Crescent/Hurricane Ridge
– Lake Crescent Lodge: Lakeside, classic and cozy
– Log Cabin Resort: Rustic cabins with water views
– Olympic Lodge (Port Angeles): Convenient base near the mountains
Rialto/Ruby/Second Beach (Coastal)
– Kalaloch Lodge: Oceanfront cabins on the bluff
– Quileute Oceanside Resort: Right on the beach in La Push
– Manitou Lodge: Forest lodge near the coast
Hoh Rainforest/Forks (Mossy Forests)
– Hoh Valley Cabins: Closest to the rainforest
– Woodland Inns: Stylish cabins in Forks
– Misty Valley Inn: Peaceful B&B with forest views
Unique/Airbnb-Style
– Forest A-frames, hot tub cabins, or off-grid tiny homes near Lake Sutherland or Sol Duc

Want help finding a stay near your elopement location? Let me know!

Eloping in Olympic National Park is an unforgettable experience, but to make it legally official, you’ll need to follow a few key steps. Here’s everything you need to know to legally get married in the Olympics:

1. Obtain a Washington State Marriage License
To get legally married at Mount Rainier, you must first obtain a Washington State marriage license. Here’s how:

Where to Apply: You can obtain a license from any county clerk’s office in Washington State—it doesn’t have to be in the county where you’re getting married. Popular choices for Mount Rainier elopements include Pierce County or King County.

Waiting Period: Washington has a three-day waiting period, meaning you must get your license at least three full days before your ceremony.

Expiration: The license is valid for 60 days from the date of issue.

Cost: Fees vary by county but typically range from $60 to $80.

No Residency Requirement: You don’t have to be a Washington resident to apply.

ID Requirements: Both partners must provide valid government-issued photo IDs.

Application Process: Some counties allow you to apply online, but you’ll usually need to pick up the license in person.

2. Secure a Special Use Permit from the National Park
Because the Olympics is a national park, you need a Special Use Permit to hold a wedding ceremony. Here’s how:
Application Fee: The permit costs $250.

How to Apply: Fill out the Special Use Permit application from the National Park Service (NPS) website and submit it at least four weeks in advance.

Guest Limits: Small elopements are easier to approve, but larger gatherings may require additional permissions and considerations.

Restricted Locations: Some areas may have seasonal closures or restrictions, so it’s best to check with the park rangers for updates.

3. Choose an Officiant
Washington State requires a licensed officiant to perform the ceremony. You have a few options:
Hire a professional officiant who is legally recognized in Washington.

Have a friend or family member officiate if they are ordained online (Washington recognizes online ordinations).
If you’re planning a private vow exchange without an officiant, you’ll still need to sign the legal paperwork separately with an officiant to make it official.

4. Have at Least Two Witnesses
Washington State requires two witnesses to sign your marriage license. If you’re eloping alone, don’t worry! Many elopement photographers (including us) or even friendly hikers you meet on the trail can serve as witnesses.

5. File Your Marriage License
After your ceremony, your officiant must sign and return the completed marriage license to the county where you obtained it. Once filed, you can request certified copies for your records.

he easiest way to get to Olympic National Park is to fly into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), which is about 2–3 hours from the park depending on where you’re heading. From Seattle, you can either take the scenic Bainbridge Island ferry and drive across the Olympic Peninsula, or drive south around Puget Sound via Tacoma and up Highway 101—great if you’re going toward Lake Quinault or the Hoh Rainforest. Since Olympic is large and spread out, renting a car is essential for getting around and accessing different areas like the mountains, coast, and rainforest. If you’re planning a more adventurous elopement, a camper van is also a fun option!

The best time to elope in Olympic National Park is typically late June through early October. During this window, you’re most likely to get:

Clearer weather: July and August are the driest months, ideal for mountain views and coastal sunsets.
Accessible trails: Snow in higher elevations (like Hurricane Ridge or Mount Storm King) usually melts by late June.
Wildflowers and lush greenery: July and August are peak bloom seasons in alpine areas, while rainforests stay vibrant year-round.
Longer daylight: Perfect for elopements with sunset hikes or multiple locations.

That said, spring and fall (May, early June, and October) offer fewer crowds and a moodier, misty vibe—amazing for those who love foggy forests and dramatic coastal cliffs.

Want to learn more about eloping in Olympic National Park? Check out our Olympic National Park Guide

We’ve put together a super helpful blog featuring all the best Olympic Natinal Park locations for your elopement or micro wedding! Whether you’re dreaming of a scenic overlook, a secluded forest, or an epic alpine lake backdrop, our Olympic National Elopement Guide has everything you need to plan the perfect day. Check it out for expert tips, stunning locations, and all the details to make your adventure unforgettable!

Yes, most elopements in Olympic National Park require a special use permit. It’s best to apply early, as spots can be limited. Check the park’s official website for the latest details!

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!

HOW IT WORKS CONTACT US

MEET YOUR

Olympic National Park Elopement Photographers

Hi! We are Sanne, Brooke, Janelle, Alanna & Kristi

So, what do we exactly do? It’s very simple! We specialize in helping couples with a shared love for nature celebrate their union in the great outdoors! No obligations, no cookie-cutter wedding templates—just you two, your love for each other, and the beauty of nature. Maybe throw in a few friends and family members too!

Of course we do a lot more than just that! We are your planners, coordinators, photographers, and trail friends.

GET TO KNOW THE TEAM

TESTIMONIALS

What our couples have to say about working with Running Wild

Lillie & Nathan

I cannot even count the number of times we’ve heard “these are the best wedding photos I’ve ever seen.”

Kate & William

These women are powerhouses and find opportunities to shoot stunners anywhere! Sanne and Brooke went above and beyond.

Amy & Sam

They truly went above and beyond to ensure every detail reflected our love and they found the most stunning landscapes we had only dreamed of.

Read full reviews on google

Olympic National Park Packages

Our Mount Rainier elopement packages are designed for couples who want 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.

What’s included in our Mount Rainier elopement packages:

Customized timeline creation for the best lighting and flow
Location scouting and personalized ceremony recommendations
Guidance with Olympic National Park permits
Vendor recommendations (florals, hair & makeup, officiants, etc.)
Photography coverage tailored to your vision
Professionally edited, high-resolution images
Online gallery for downloading and sharing
Unlimited planning support and consultation calls

Starting at $5,700

ALL ELOPEMENT PACKAGES & PRICING

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 Olympic National Park Elopement

The Running Wild Team here! We take your inspiration—no matter how vague—and shape it into a beautifully planned, adventure-driven wedding in nature.

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!