Two Days of Love, Adventure, Hikes, and Epic Views in the Pacific Northwest

What makes elopements so powerful is their ability to reflect who you are, not just as individuals but as a couple. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, and that’s the beauty of it.

Eloping lets you dream bigger, go deeper, and create a wedding day that truly feels like you.

For Maddie and Kevin, that meant skipping tradition and planning two full days of unforgettable adventures. They  intentionally designed  each moment around their favorite activities, people, and the deep love they share. From rock climbing to heartfelt vows, family toasts to alpine lakes, their mountain elopement at Colchuck Lake wasn’t about checking boxes. It was about crafting an experience that blended connection, freedom, and wild beauty in the Washington Cascades.

Captured by Marla Manes, this elopement proves your wedding can be more than just one day. All you have to do is follow your heart and lean into what lights you up,

Thinking about eloping? Here are 10 reasons you should elope in 2025

Meet Maddie & Kevin

Photography by Marla Manes

Maddie and Kevin always knew their wedding would be rooted in nature. As lifelong adventurers who spent their free time trail running, hiking, and exploring the outdoors, a traditional venue never quite felt like them. At first, they were planning to have an intimate elopement followed by a more traditional reception in downtown Seattle. However, as the reception planning dragged on, they realized something important — the part they were most excited about wasn’t the party. It was the quiet, intimate ceremony in the mountains.

Their Vision & Planning Process

Maddie and Kevin didn’t just want a wedding — they wanted an adventure. From the start, they envisioned a day (or two) that reflected their love for the outdoors, shared experiences, and the Pacific Northwest. Accessibility was important as they wanted to include multiple generations of family. Once they nailed down their list of priorities, everything else started to fall into place.

“We really started by asking ourselves what would make this feel like us,” Maddie shared. “Some of our non-negotiables were a quick mountain vow exchange, an afternoon of climbing with a casual lunch, hiking with our parents, and a relaxed dinner where we could celebrate without too much formality.”

With that vision, they searched for venues and vendors who matched their laid-back, outdoor vibe. Leavenworth, WA, ended up being the perfect basecamp. The town offered gorgeous views, convenient lodging, and access to hiking and climbing for all experience levels.

With help from their photographer, Marla, they explored local spots and chose Barney’s Rubble for their ceremony and climbing. The next day, they planned a hike to Colchuck Lake — a full-circle moment, since it’s where they got engaged the year before.

Their late spring elopement brought the perfect balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds, and the early season colors added a stunning, natural backdrop to their celebration.

Their late spring elopement brought mild weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful early-season colors that created a stunning natural backdrop.

From there, it was all about building a team of vendors who were outdoorsy, flexible, and excited to co-create something unique. As Marla put it, “You don’t have to cut corners or make sacrifices when it comes to your wedding. You can have it all.”

Choosing the Perfect Location

When selecting the perfect location for your mountain elopement, several factors come into play. First and foremost, choose a spot that resonates with your personal style and preferences. Do you dream of a romantic vow exchange nestled among towering trees, or a scenic hike offering breathtaking views of a clear blue lake? Perhaps a cozy cabin or a secluded woodland area fits your vision of an intimate setting.

Popular locations in Washington state include Colchuck Lake, Lake Wenatchee State Park, and the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. Each of these spots possesses its own unique charm and character, from the stunning mountain views at Colchuck Lake to the serene landscapes of Lake Wenatchee.

From rugged peaks to quiet lakes, Washington has your perfect elopement location.

Permits & Leave No Trace (LNT)

Photography by Marla Manes

Outdoor weddings come with an important responsibility: protecting the land. At locations like Colchuck Lake and surrounding national forests, couples must follow specific rules. Including: a strict no-dogs policy — to preserve the environment and respect wildlife.  (Don’t worry Maddie and Kevin left their pup at the AirBNB for day 2 at Colchuck Lake!).

Marla also emphasized the importance of being considerate of other visitors, especially during activities like rock climbing. “Your presence and recreation impact not just the experience of others but also future climbers’ safety,” she noted. For both locations, having the place to themselves was a gift, but they were prepared to share respectfully, if needed.

Planning ahead for their desired fall date, Maddie and Kevin secured the necessary permits for the national forest areas for their Leavenworth elopement, aiming to catch the vibrant autumn colors. They prioritized locations that allowed for a seamless mix of adventure and relaxation, places where they and their guests could stay overnight and soak in the surrounding natural beauty of Central Washington. With logistics like their marriage license (obtained in Chelan County) checked off early, they were free to focus on what mattered most: creating an intentional, meaningful experience with their favorite people and nothing but blue skies ahead.

Preparing for the Adventure

Once you’ve landed on Leavenworth as your base for adventure, it’s worth taking time to map out the finer details that will make your elopement feel effortless. This part of Washington offers incredible backdrops, but it also comes with some quirks that are good to prepare for.

Permits and licenses are a must. You’ll need a Washington state marriage license (Chelan County is the closest option), and certain areas like the Enchantments or Colchuck Lake may require a day use permit or wilderness pass. If you’re planning a group hike or ceremony in a popular spot, it’s best to check in with the local ranger station well in advance.

Seasons matter a lot here. Early fall brings stunning colors and crisp weather, but it also means shorter daylight hours and the potential for unexpected snow at higher elevations. Summer offers more flexibility with daylight and trail access, but it’s also the busiest season. Weekday intimate weddings can help you find more solitude on the trails. Winter elopements are exactly the winter wonderland you’d think it would be, but make sure your guests are up for snowy roads and cold temps.

Pro tips for the area:

• Cell service is limited in most trail areas. Share GPS pins and caravan when possible.
• Trailheads can fill up fast. Arriving at sunrise or carpooling can make all the difference.
• Pack layers. Weather changes quickly in the mountains, even in the summer.
• Build in buffer time. Whether it’s for a long hike, family photos, or simply soaking in the moment.

This part of the planning process isn’t just about logistics. It’s about setting the stage so you can be present, grounded, and ready to fully enjoy every part of the experience.

Ready to ditch the to-do stress? The Ultimate Elopement Checklist is like your elopement adventure sidekick—keeping you on track so you can focus on the fun stuff (like saying “I do” on a mountaintop).

Getting Ready & Pre-Ceremony Vibes

To keep the weekend relaxed and meaningful, Maddie and Kevin rented a spacious Airbnb, providing their wedding party a comfortable space to unwind, get ready together, and fully immerse in the excitement of their adventure wedding. This choice fostered a sense of community, connection, and love among their closest friends and family, setting the tone for an unforgettable celebration.

Hair and makeup were expertly crafted by the talented makeup artist Anne Timss, who ensured Maddie and her family felt their best — fresh, natural, and ready for a day of outdoor adventure.

With a solid team of expert wedding vendors behind them, Maddie and Kevin didn’t have to worry about the details. Everything unfolded seamlessly, allowing them to focus on what truly mattered — being present and cherishing every moment of their special day in the stunning Pacific Northwest.

A Cliffside Wedding Ceremony & Rock climbing

Photography by Marla Manes

Barney’s Rubble isn’t your typical wedding venue and that’s exactly why Maddie and Kevin chose it. They stood atop a rock face with sweeping, gorgeous mountain views for their ceremony, led by a close friend. After saying “I do,” they rappelled down the cliff to join their guests — a literal descent into married life! This adventurous, beautiful wedding is the type of memory that will last the test of time.

Then came one of the day’s most joyful experiences: a family rock climbing session. With routes set and gear ready, guests of all ages gave it their best shot. It was an incredible adventure, with the tiny tots scaling little boulders and Maddie & Kevin’s older friends and family being such good sports,” Marla said.

“Getting to spend the afternoon climbing, eating burritos, drinking champagne, and spending time with my closest family was priceless,” said Maddie.

To top it off, the couple wore silicone climbing rings, a subtle but meaningful detail that allowed them to celebrate safely without missing a beat.

“It was such a thoughtful touch borne from necessity. You can’t wear wedding rings while you climb, but of course they wouldn’t want to be without any on their wedding day! It was such a sweet moment that nobody made a big deal of, and I was delighted when I caught it,” Marla said.

After the climb, the couple had fresh burritos from La Javelina delivered directly to the crag! It was the perfect end to their dream day, paired with champagne, laughter, and plenty of cheering from the peanut gallery.

This unique adventure wedding at Barney’s Rubble perfectly encapsulates the spirit of an unforgettable experience. The combination of breathtaking views, personal vows, and an intimate setting made it a dream day for Maddie and Kevin. If you’re considering an adventure wedding in the Pacific Northwest, this is your sign to embrace the incredible views and create a unique wedding day filled with love, laughter, and memorable moments.

Looking for more Washington State elopement inspiration? Check out this Olympic National Park elopement!

Hiking Colchuck Lake with Their Loved Ones

Photography by Marla Manes

Day two of their adventure wedding began with a sunrise hike to Colchuck Lake, the same trail where they had gotten engaged just a year earlier. But this time, it wasn’t just the two of them. Joined by their parents and close friends, the hike became more than just a trek through stunning alpine terrain—it was a shared experience, a meaningful climb filled with laughter, encouragement, and memories in the making.

Despite the steep elevation and early start, everyone reached the lake together, greeted by the stillness of sapphire-blue water and the dramatic peaks of the alpine lakes wilderness. It was quiet, humbling, and deeply grounding. A moment to pause, breathe, and reflect. After two days of connection, celebration, and intention, it felt like the perfect ending to a story they’ll carry with them forever.

The Cost of Their Elopement

While Maddie and Kevin note that the cost of their elopement wasn’t exactly cheap, they did save a lot by deciding to cancel the large downtown Seattle reception.

“Letting go of that big, traditional event gave us the freedom to spend our budget on the things that actually mattered to us — like having more time with the people we love, staying in a cozy space together, and creating a stress-free experience from start to finish.”

One of the best decisions they made was renting a larger Airbnb for themselves and their small wedding party (six people total), instead of asking everyone to book their own accommodations.
It made the whole weekend feel more connected and intentional.

Here’s a look at where they chose to invest:

• Photographer (2 full days + planning support): $11,000
• Hair & makeup (Twice for the bride + 3 family members): $500
• Airbnb (shared with wedding party): $3,600
• Catering (lunch + dinner): $1,900
• Reception venue (with bar & setup services): $3,000
• Our attire (dress + suit): $2,500
• Decor & florals: $500
• Wedding gifts (mugs + coffee from our venue): $500

At the end of the day, they weren’t focused on cutting costs, they were focused on making it count. Every dollar went toward something that made the experience more meaningful, relaxed, and reflective of who they are. And that was worth every penny.

Activities and Entertainment

Photography by Marla Manes

Eloping in the mountains is about more than just exchanging vows—it’s about crafting a day filled with experiences that are as unique and meaningful as your love story. Imagine setting off on a hike around Colchuck Lake, where each step brings you closer to breathtaking views and intimate moments. Or perhaps biking through the alpine lakes wilderness, feeling the rush of adventure and the serenity of nature all at once. Maybe you’d prefer a leisurely wine tasting near Lake Wenatchee, savoring every sip as you celebrate your love. Or, better yet, maybe a romantic lakeside picnic followed by a soak in a hot tub in downtown Leavenworth, surrounded by the majestic Pacific Northwest scenery? Whatever you choose, let your elopement be a reflection of your shared passions and dreams, creating a day that’s truly yours and filled with the things you both love.

Washington State Accommodations and Logistics

When planning your Washington adventure wedding, accommodations and logistics are key. Consider booking a rustic cabin or a cozy lodge near Lake Wenatchee State Park for a romantic stay overnight. Arrange for transportation to and from multiple locations to ensure easy access and convenience. Don’t forget the details of your wedding attire, from the perfect dress and suit to the flowers and decorations that complement the natural beauty of the surroundings.

If you’re planning an intimate adventure wedding with just the two of you, opt for a simple yet elegant approach, focusing on personal vows and meaningful rituals amidst the breathtaking views of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. For a larger celebration with friends and family, hiring a wedding planner or coordinator can help manage all the details, ensuring a seamless experience. Whatever your choice, make sure it reflects your personal style and vision for your special day.

If you’re feeling inspired to elope in Washington State, we don’t blame you!

Advice from the Couple

Photography by Marla Manes

“Plan a day that you will enjoy,” Maddie said. “You can’t make everyone happy and sometimes having a small adventure wedding can lead to some difficult moments, but overall if you plan a day that is meaningful and fun for you and your partner it will be a success.”

They also stressed the value of community. From grabbing ice to helping with cleanup, their guests showed up with joy and generosity.

“No matter how organized you are, something will always come up. Having people around you that you can lean on is so important.”

Planning Tip: There’s no cell service in these areas. Share GPS pins in advance, travel in caravans, and meet up in town before heading into the mountains. Apply for necessary permits, including a Washington marriage license, well ahead of time to secure your desired date.

Final Reflection

Maddie and Kevin’s adventure wedding was about creating an experience that felt true to who they are. By leading with joy, adventure, and intentionality, they crafted a celebration that was both deeply personal and unforgettable.

What made their wedding so special wasn’t just the epic views or carefully chosen details, but the quiet in between moments— sipping coffee together before the sunrise hike, laughing with friends during a break in the climb, hugging their parents after the ceremony.

Their story is a beautiful reminder to prioritize connection — to each other, your people, and the landscape that inspire you. When you do, everything else will fall into place.

The Vendor Team

Photographer: Marla Manes Photography | @marlamanesphoto

Planning & Venue Support: @Localplanning.co | @localvenues.co | @thelocaleventco

Hair & Makeup: Anne Timss

Flowers: Flower Moxie

Cake: Honey Crumb Cake Studio

Catering: La Javelina (Lunch), Miller Street Kitchen & Catering (Dinner)

Reception Venues: Coffee shop via @thelocaleventco

Attire: BHLDN, Indochino, Margaux

Rings: Joseph Jewelry, Brilliant Earth

Photos From this Elopement