Why Elope in the North Cascades?

When people look into eloping in the North Cascades, many of the epic locations aren’t actually inside of North Cascades National Park.

Very famous Washington elopement locations, such as Artist Point, Picture Lake, Heather Meadows and Chain Lakes Loop, are all within the Mount Baker Wilderness area. What that means is that all you need is a non-fee permit for your ceremony. You can also bring your dog(s) with you!!

Other popular elopement locations, especially during larch season, are Heather-Maple Pass Loop, Blue Lake and Cutthroat Lake. They are in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, which borders the North Cascades National Park. 

There are a few locations where you are allowed to have an elopement ceremony within the North Cascades National Park. Those locations are Diablo Lake and the Washington Pass Overlook. North Cascades National Park (NCNP) is one of the most underrated and lesser visited National Parks in the United States.

Cool Fact: NCNP has over 300 glaciers…the most glaciers of any national park in the lower 48 states!

The entire North Cascades region has breathtaking views of jagged mountain peaks that seem to go on forever – glaciers, colorful alpine lakes, rugged landscape, and so many waterfalls! I personally love that area the most in the Fall when the colors are such vibrant reds, oranges and yellows.

Best places to Elope in the North Cascades

1. Artist Point
2. Picture Lake
3. Heather Meadows
4. Chain Lakes Loop
5. Heather – Maple Pass Loop
6. Blue Lake
7. Cutthroat Lake
8. Washington Pass Overlook

Artist Point

Picture Lake

Heather Meadows

Chain Lakes Loop

Heather – Maple Pass Loop

Blue Lake

Cutthroat Lake

Washington Pass Overlook

North Cascades Permit Information

If you do select a location inside of the National Park, you need a permit to elope in North Cascades National Park. The application fee is only $50 and you can get that through the National Park website.

If you choose to elope outside of North Cascades National Park, in the Mount Baker Wilderness area, the permit is a non-fee permit. You are limited to the number of guests you can include in your ceremony. Certain locations allow more guests than others. It’s best to contact me directly, so I can provide the most current information.

North Cascades Accessibility

Some of these locations are easily accessible, but most of them require a hike of at least 2 miles round trip. That’s another great reason to elope in the North Cascades – if you’re an avid hiker and excited to hike on your wedding day, then you can get further into the wilderness, see more beauty and be farther away from other people.

The North Cascades are most accessible during the summer (July – August) and fall (September – October) months. The main highway through North Cascades National Park typically closes from November – June each year. The road to Artist Point typically closes from mid-October through June. You can still access some of the area with snowshoes or cross country skies during the winter months.

You can learn even more about eloping in the North Cascades by reading the Pacific Northwest Elopement Guide.

Why you should consider eloping in the North Cascades

When planning to elope Washington State, a many people think of eloping in Mount Rainier National Park.  It is a beautiful area, but I encourage you to consider eloping in North Cascades. It is called the North American Alps for a very good reason!!

You can check out my resource on How to Elope in Washington State for more information on how to elope in the North Cascades.

Stacy – Your North Cascades Elopement Photographer

Do you love having new adventures together as a couple? Then what better way to start your life together than adventuring on your own terms on your wedding day. The North Cascades offer so many breathtaking locations for you to exchange your vows and create wonderful memories on your elopement.

I am here to help you work through the details, envision your special day, find the perfect location and activities, and then be there to make it happen! My approach as a photographer is to capture those loving moments that you will want to remember forever. I keep things light and fun.

I am also ordained! So, if you need someone to perform your ceremony, I’ve got you covered.

I believe that eloping is the most authentic way to start your life together. If you’re looking for a photographer to be your biggest supporter and help you have a stress-free day, then you’ve found her!