Places to Elope in Oregon

Embark on a picturesque elopement adventure in Oregon, where you have a bunch of different locations to plan your elopement adventure. As you put together your Oregon elopement package, you’ll need to think about where to elope in this gorgeous state. From waterfalls and coastal cliffs to volcanic landscapes and wildflower-filled meadows, Oregon offers a diverse array of enchanting settings to make your elopement truly unforgettable. For more remote locations and help planning your special day, team up with an Oregon elopement photographer! Explore our top places to elope in Oregon:

• Oregon Coast
• Crater Lake National Park
• Mt. Hood National Forest
• Silver Falls State Park
• High Desert
• Columbia River Gorge
• More Places to Elope in Oregon
• Oregon Elopement Photographers

Oregon Elopement Locations

Where should you elope in Oregon? Honestly, there are tons of views at any of the locations we’ll talk about. Oregon is one of those states that are pretty diverse, so it all comes down to what type of adventure you both want to have. Do you want beach, forest, mountain, or desert views? The iconic Multnomah Falls, cascading in the Columbia River Gorge, offers a breathtaking setting with lush greenery for that whimsical fairy vibe. For more of an Oregon Coast feel, then explore the rugged cliffs of Cape Kiwanda as you appreciate the untamed beauty of the Pacific. Crater Lake National Park is the perfect place to plan a lake elopement nestled within a volcanic caldera, for couples looking for a unique location with history.

Oregon photographers are also not only the best to have on your team to capture your big day, but they also know all of the best secret elopement spots to plan your ceremony in Oregon! They can even help you navigate wedding venues for small weddings that still fit the “elopement vibe”. Wherever you choose to elope, Oregon offers diverse settings for a truly unforgettable elopement.

Oregon Coast

The Oregon Coast is probably one of the most popular places to elope in Oregon. The Oregon Coastline stretches over 360 miles, offering diverse landscapes ranging from sandy beaches to towering cliffs and sea stacks. The iconic Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach is a popular wedding ceremony location, while the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor unveils a series of dramatic cliffs and secluded coves for a more intimate and adventurous elopement experience. Planning your adventure elopement on the Oregon Coast means immersing yourselves in the wild, where the crashing waves, sea breeze, and coastal landscapes are the perfect backdrop for your wedding day.

Do I need a wedding permit to plan my Oregon Coast elopement? No. Most of the state parks along the coast do not require a permit for your ceremony as long as your group size is under 50 people.

However, if you decide to include any decorations or rental furniture, then you will most likely need a permit. Keep in mind permits are not issued from May to September. This permit information can change at any time. Please double-check the Oregon State Park’s website for the latest information.

Getting There: The Oregon Coast is a little over 3 hours drive away from Portland.

What is the Nearest Airport? The nearest airport to Oregon Coast is North Bend Airport which is 41.2 miles away.

Check out our Oregon Coast elopement guide.

Some of our favorite places to elope on the Oregon Coast include…

Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor

Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor on the Oregon Coast stretches for 12 miles along Highway 101. This coastal wonderland is covered in epic cliffs, secluded coves, and rugged headlands, providing a dreamlike setting for an intimate ceremony. The natural amphitheater at Natural Bridges frames the coastline with its rock formations, while Arch Rock offers a dramatic backdrop of stone arches against the Pacific horizon.

With over 3,000 acres of wilderness, Samuel H. Boardman has endless locations to exchange vows surrounded by ancient forests, wildflower meadows, and panoramic ocean views. Are you both animal lovers? Many couples catch a glimpse of seals, seabirds, and even migrating whales!

Check out this epic elopement adventure at Samuel H. Boardman.

Cape Kiwanada

Cape Kiwanda along the Oregon Coast is pretty amazing with its stunning coastal views. Part of the Three Capes Scenic Route, Cape Kiwanda has towering dunes, dramatic cliffs, and the iconic Haystack Rock standing majestically offshore. This location in OR is perfect for an intimate ceremony with its expansive sandy beach and views of the Pacific. For the adventurous couple, there’s even a massive sandstone dune, known as the “Great Dune,” ideal to explore or even for a unique location for exchanging vows. A lot of couples love this spot because there are tons of opportunities for sandboarding, hiking, and exploring tide pools.

Check out this styled elopement at Cape Kiwanda.

Hug Point

Hug Point on the Oregon Coast invites couples to exchange vows in a romantic and relaxing atmosphere. Named after the historic stagecoach road that once hugged the headland, Hug Point has a beach framed by towering cliffs, sea caves, and a waterfall (talk about the perfect photo ops). This location is unique and even features tidal caves, accessible during low tide. We just advise you to work with an elopement photographer who understands the tide schedule.

Check out this moody Hug Point elopement inspiration.

Crater Lake National Park

Nestled in the Cascade Range of southern Oregon, Crater Lake is known for its deep blue waters, filling the caldera left by the collapse of Mount Mazama almost 8,000 years ago (that’s a cool story to tell your family about your elopement location). Wizard Island, a cinder cone rising from the lake’s surface, adds a mystical touch to the panoramic views. While Rim Village offers an ideal location for a ceremony overlooking the vast, crystal-clear expanse. The park has plenty for couples to explore including old-growth forests, alpine meadows, and dramatic cliffs.

Do I need a permit for my Crater Lake elopement? Yes. The total permit cost for your Crater Lake wedding is $100. You will need to pay $50 to apply for your wedding permit and pay another $50 once the permit is approved.

Please be advised you’ll need to list the locations you’ll be visiting during your wedding adventure. You’ll also need to apply with plenty of time because the processing time for this national park is SLOW. With that being said, apply at least 8 weeks in advance. Once the permit is signed and returned to you, your permit is official. Learn more here.

Important notice on closures from the park’s website: “Rim Drive and North Entrance Road are closed for the season (closes around November). They will gradually open again beginning sometime in June depending on snowpack and plowing operations. The road to Rim Village remains open during this time, except when there is heavy snow.”

Getting There: Crater Lake National Park is about 4 hours and 30 minutes away from Portland, driving. Bend, OR is the largest city closest to Crater Lake.

What is the Nearest Airport? The closest major airport is Eugene Airport which is 120 miles Northwest of the park. There is an airport at Klamath Falls, OR which is 60 miles South of the park.

Check out this elopement ceremony at Crater Lake.

Some of our favorite places to elope in Crater Lake include…

Rim Drive

This isn’t a place to elope in Crater Lake, but rather it’s an adventure starting point. Rim Drive is THE drive for Crater Lake. It’s 33 miles of road and has over 30 stops where you can easily pull over and either take portraits, have your ceremony, or just take in the view. However, as mentioned above, this location is closed between November and July, so plan accordingly.

Watchman Peak

Watchman Peak Trail is 1.7 miles out and back, and it only takes about an hour to complete. You’ll get 400 feet of elevation gain, and some of the park’s more breathtaking views. As a historic fire lookout site, Watchman Peak adds a touch of nostalgia and significance to the ceremony. With its accessibility and interpretive programs, couples can infuse their elopement with a blend of natural beauty and educational insights into the park’s history.

Discovery Point

If you’re looking for scenic views without a long hike, then Discovery Point is where it’s at. The hike to this overlook is 2.4 miles roundtrip and the elevation is 337 feet. Once there, you’ll get panoramic views of Crater Lake, and you’ll have the perfect spot for your ceremony. Positioned along the park’s iconic Rim Drive, Discovery Point is easily accessible and showcases the lake’s vivid colors against the surrounding cliffs.

Mt. Hood National Forest

As the highest peak in Oregon, Mt. Hood towers over the Cascade Range, providing a dramatic backdrop for an intimate wedding ceremony. The Timberline Lodge, nestled at the mountain’s base, adds a touch of rustic charm and is a great accommodation option for couples. With its iconic snow-capped summit and lush alpine meadows, Mt. Hood National Forest is a top contender when it comes to picking an elopement spot in Oregon. With its diverse landscapes, including dense forests, alpine lakes, and meandering rivers, Mt. Hood provides a picturesque journey to explore for elopement couples.

Do I need a permit for my Mt. Hood elopement? Yes, but it will more than likely be free if you have less than 75 guests. However, please make sure you still apply. You can do this by filling out the “Proposal Request Form” at the bottom of the website.

Why should I apply for a permit at Mt. Hood for my wedding when it’s free? Applying for a permit will make sure that you’re following all leave no trace guidelines and regulations of the forest, and the park’s officials can make sure to give you the best suggestions and guidance for your adventure.

Getting There: Mt. Hood is about 1 hour and 30 minutes away from Portland, driving.

What is the Nearest Airport? The nearest airport to Mt. Hood is Portland Airport which is 50 miles away.

Check out these Mt. Hood wedding venues.

Some of our favorite places to elope in Mt. Hood include…

Trillium Lake

Nestled at the base of the majestic mountain, Trillium Lake reflects the snow-capped beauty of Mt. Hood, creating a serene and romantic atmosphere for your elopement. The location is accessible, making it an ideal spot for an intimate ceremony with family and friends. Trillium Lake is also known for its epic outdoor activities such as hiking and kayaking, allowing adventurous couples to infuse their elopement with unique elements that show off their personality.

Check out this sunrise elopement on Mt. Hood.

Mt Hood Ski Bowl

Mt Hood Ski Bowl is positioned on the slopes of Mt Hood. This location is ideal for couples looking to plan a winter elopement in Oregon. You’ll get a winter wonderland scenery as you exchange vows, and you can have fun portraits of you both skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and even tubing!

Mirror Lake

Nestled within Mt. Hood National Forest, Mirror Lake mirrors the gorgeous view around the lake. Accessible through a scenic trail, the lake presents an intimate and secluded spot for exchanging vows amid towering conifers and serene waters. The Mirror Lake Trail, while it can be a little challenging for some, rewards adventurous couples with stunning views of the mountain and the surrounding wilderness.

Silver Falls State Park

If you love waterfalls and all-around epic trails to explore, then your elopement location lies within Silver Falls State Park. The park itself is known for its impressive waterfalls. Silver Falls State Park is home to South Falls, a breathtaking 177-foot waterfall that allows couples to walk behind its curtain of water for a truly immersive experience. With over 9,000 acres of diverse ecosystems, including dense forests and scenic canyons, the park provides plenty of locations to pick from for your ceremony. This is also Oregon’s largest state park!

Do I need a permit for my elopement at Silver Falls State Park? No, most elopements will not require a special use permit. However, please double-check the Silver Falls State Park’s website since this can change at any time.

Getting There: Silver Falls State Park is a little over an hour’s drive. It’s also 30 minutes from Salem.

What is the Nearest Airport? The distance between Portland Airport and Silver Falls State Park is 51 miles.

Check out this forest and waterfall wedding at Silver Falls State Park.

Some of our favorite places to elope in Silver Falls State Park include…

Upper North Falls

This waterfall is super accessible. It’s a 0.3-mile walking distance, making it ideal for micro weddings and elopements. The trail itself ends in front of the falls, so you’ll get a gorgeous waterfall backdrop for your ceremony. Keep in mind that because this area is so accessible, there will be a crowd. We recommend planning during the week, sunrise, or sunset.

Winter Falls

This waterfall can be found on a longer trail for couples who want to explore more (Trail of Ten Falls Hike) OR you can explore its trail that is only a 0.2-mile walk straight to the waterfall itself. Winter Falls is tall and grand, but it’s usually dried up during the summer. To avoid this, plan a winter elopement or spring elopement at this location to appreciate the waterfall.

South Falls

We leave the best for last because the South Falls is the TALLEST waterfall in the park. If you want epic, then check out this 177 ft waterfall. You can usually access this waterfall at the base, which gives you pretty amazing photos. The trail to South Falls is wheelchair friendly and paved, but keep in mind the trail itself isn’t level throughout.

High Desert

When most people think of Oregon, they don’t usually think of the desert. But honestly, some of the most epic elopements we have seen have been in Oregon’s High Desert. The High Desert is a vast region characterized by expansive plateaus, dramatic canyons, and ancient volcanic landscapes. It’s called high desert for its generally high elevation (4,000 feet) across the region itself. The area is bordered by the eastern foothills of the Cascade Range to the west. Smith Rock State Park, with its towering rock formations and the meandering Crooked River, is a popular spot for exchanging vows. The Painted Hills, part of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, showcases vibrant layers of sediment, creating a surreal and otherworldly atmosphere. The High Desert also features open and remote locations for an intimate elopement, which your elopement photographer can help you discover.

Do I need a permit for my elopement in the High Desert area? It depends.
In most areas, especially remote and secluded desert areas, you will not need a permit since the desert is considered public land, and typical “park” regulations do not organize it.

However, there are exceptions for more well-known desert areas and areas that fall within national and state parks. For ALL locations, even the ones that don’t require a permit, you need to make sure you’re leaving no trace even more in these areas to protect them. If you’re not sure if your elopement location requires a fee or permit application, please double-check with your elopement vendor.

Getting There: The high desert area is pretty big and makes up about a quarter of all land in Oregon! Talk to an experienced elopement vendor in the area to help you get there without any stress.

Some of our favorite areas to elope in the High Desert region include…

Painted Hills

We’re pretty sure you saw elopement inspiration from the Painted Hills, which tends to be one of the most popular areas to elope in this region. Part of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, the Painted Hills showcases nature’s artistry with their vibrant layers of red, gold, and black hues, creating a unique backdrop for your ceremony. The hills here, formed by ancient volcanic activity and erosion, is known as one of the Seven Wonders of Oregon.

Do I need a permit for Painted Hills? If you have a wedding party of 20 or more people (including you and your vendors), then YES. You will need a special use permit. The special use permit application fee is $50. You can find the application here.

What is the closest Airport to the Painted Hills? The closest airport to the Painted Hills is Portland International Airport, which is a 195-mile or a 4-hour drive.

Check out this breathtaking Painted Hills elopement.

Alvord Desert

Alvord Desert in Oregon’s High Desert region offers couples a unique and remote setting for an intimate celebration. This expansive playa, surrounded by the Steens Mountain, creates a surreal and otherworldly atmosphere.

Fun fact: The Alvord Desert is one of the driest places in the state, providing an open and breathtaking canvas for couples to exchange vows beneath the vast desert sky.

With its remote location, the Alvord Desert offers a sense of tranquility and seclusion, allowing couples to create a deeply personal and intimate elopement experience.

Do I need a permit to elope in the Alvord Desert? No. No permit is required to elope here since this area is considered public.

What city is the closest to the Alvord Desert? The closest city to the Alvord Desert is Burns and Fields. Burns is about a 2-hour drive to the desert and Fields is about 30 minutes.

How do I get to the Alvord Desert? This remote area is a bit tricky to navigate, so we always recommend teaming up with a professional in the area. You’ll need to access the playa through an access point like Alvord Hot Springs.

Smith Rock State Park

Smith Rock State Park in Oregon promises dramatic and breathtaking views as you exchange vows. Known for its towering rock formations, deep canyons, and the meandering Crooked River, Smith Rock provides a stunning natural amphitheater for intimate ceremonies. The park is a haven for rock climbers, offering couples the opportunity to declare their love against the majestic backdrop of iconic peaks like Monkey Face and the sheer cliffs of the Smith Rock Group. With over 650 acres of high desert terrain, the park has tons of trails that lead to panoramic viewpoints. As one of the Seven Wonders of Oregon, Smith Rock State Park invites adventurous couples to immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of the High Desert.

Do I need a permit to elope at Smith Rock State Park? Yes. According to the park’s website, any special event/ and or wedding groups should reach out to park staff to reserve and request a permit.

Currently, Smith Rock State Park is reserving ONLY the amphitheater area for wedding ceremonies. It can be reserved by calling the park office 6 months to the day, starting at 6:00 am. Call the office to reserve 541-548-7501.

It’s important to always follow Leave No Trace to continue to protect these lands and keep them available for future couples.

Management at Smith Rock is currently NOT continuing the practice of issuing special use permits for weddings outside of this area due to “site degradation and group interference with our regular park visitors“. Please call the management number above for additional questions.

What airport is the closest to Smith Rock State Park? The Redmond Municipal Airport (R​DM) is the main airport for central Oregon, located approximately 15 minutes from Smith Rock State Park.

Check out this dreamy Smith Rock State Park elopement inspiration! (Perfect for after your ceremony!)

Columbia River Gorge

Carved by the mighty Columbia River, the Columbia River Gorge is a breathtaking area covered in lush forests, towering cliffs, and cascading waterfalls. Multnomah Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in the United States, provides a majestic backdrop for an intimate ceremony. The Columbia River Highway offers numerous viewpoints, such as Crown Point and Vista House, allowing couples to exchange vows with panoramic views of the gorge’s dramatic landscapes.

With over 80 waterfalls scattered throughout the area, including Latourell Falls and Wahkeena Falls, the Columbia River Gorge offers many options to choose from for your ceremony and elopement adventure.

Do I need a permit for my elopement at Columbia River Gorge? Nope, most elopements and small weddings will not require a special use permit. However, if you have more than 75 people in your party OR if you have any furniture and decor set up, then you will need to. We also don’t recommend having a wedding party this large in this area anyway.

Most locations at the Gorge can only really accommodate up to 20 people and 10 cars, according to the park’s website.

Getting There: The Columbia River Gorge is a national scenic area that is about 85 miles long, following the Columbia River along the northern Oregon border. One of the most popular stops in the gorge is Multnomah Falls which is 30 miles east of Portland.

What is the Nearest Airport? The nearest airport to Columbia Gorge Recreation Area is Portland Airport which is 33.2 miles away.

You’ll love this fairytale elopement with family at Wahclella Waterfall in OR.

Some of our favorite places to elope in the Gorge include…

Multnomah Falls

Let’s start strong here. Multnomah Falls is the most iconic waterfall in the Gorge. It has an amazing double drop waterfall, and is the tallest waterfall in the state of Oregon at 620 feet! Keep in mind that a lot of people want to see this waterfall, so it can get crowded. We recommend this location for some portraits rather than your actual ceremony. However, you can always navigate this and plan during sunrise or weekdays to see if you can beat the crowds.

Latourell Falls

If you’re looking for an elopement location that’s accessible and perfect for your elopement ceremony, then check out Latorell Falls. This is a short walk from the trailhead, and the waterfall itself is 250 feet! If you want more adventure, then venture through the 2-mile loop to check out the upper falls for more privacy and more portrait opportunities.

Check out this whimsical engagement session at Latourell Falls (also featuring the Oregon Coast).

Wahcella Falls

Getting to Wahcella Falls will take a 2.4-mile out-and-back hike that leads you to a 350-foot waterfall with two epic drops. This trail is moderate and does have some areas that can be a bit slippery, so watch your step!

Check out this elopement at Wahclella Falls mixing culture and adventure with family.

More Places to Elope in Oregon

Umpqua National Forest

Home to lush forests, serene lakes, and cascading waterfalls, the Umpqua National Forest offers a diverse and picturesque backdrop for intimate ceremonies. The Toketee Falls, with its two-tiered cascade, provides a breathtaking setting for vows amidst the soothing sounds of rushing water. The 79-mile-long North Umpqua Scenic Byway offers couples the opportunity to explore the forest’s scenic wonders, including Diamond Lake and Watson Falls. With over a million acres of diverse landscapes, this forest is perfect for elopement couples who love hiking, wildlife watching, and just taking in the tranquility of nature.

Do I need a permit for my elopement at Umpqua National Forest? Nope, most elopements and small weddings will not require a special use permit at Umpqua National Forest. However, if you have more than 75 people in your party.

Getting There: Umpqua National Forest is about a 3-hour drive from Portland, Oregon.

What is the Nearest Airport? The nearest airport to Umpqua National Forest is Redmond (RDM).

Some of our favorite places to elope in Umpqua include…

Toketee Falls

Toketee Falls is an easy hike. It is a three to four-drop waterfall located on the North Umpqua River. However, keep in mind not to pass past the observation point. This goes directly against Leave No Trace, so please respect the closed-off area for your safety.

Trestle Creek Falls

If you’re looking for an adventure, then check out Trestle Creek Falls. This waterfall is pretty epic because you have to walk behind it and even underneath. This multi-tiered waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery, and the falls itself is about 50 feet. The soothing sounds of cascading water create a tranquil ambiance, providing a natural symphony for exchanging vows.

Umpqua Hot Springs

Perched on the Umpqua River, these geothermal springs are not only picturesque, but it’s also super relaxing too. Accessible via a scenic trail, the springs offer panoramic views of the surrounding forest and the Umpqua River. Umpqua Hot Springs is a series of tiered pools, each offering a different view. The day pass here is $5! These hot springs are some of the warmest in the state, going up to 115°F (46.1°C) degrees. The hot water cascades down the hillside where the hottest pool is at the top.

According to the website, “From November through March Forest Service Road 3401 is typically closed due to bad weather and poor road conditions. This doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t visit the hot springs, it just means your hike is substantially extended.”

Portland

Portland is renowned for its lush parks, diverse neighborhoods, and thriving arts scene. The International Rose Test Garden, located in Washington Park, showcases over 10,000 roses and provides a stunning setting for an intimate ceremony. Portland’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its numerous urban parks, including Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the United States. With its culinary delights, artistic energy, and natural beauty, Portland is the perfect place to elope in Oregon if you’re looking for a mix of adventure and city living.

Do I need a permit for my elopement in Portland, OR? It depends! If you’re eloping at a park, then probably yes. If you’re eloping at a wedding venue in Portland, then you’ll have to pay their package fees. However, there can be some spots in Portland that you don’t need to pay permit fees. Get with an elopement vendor to start planning.

What is the Nearest Airport? The nearest airport to Portland is Portland (PDX) Airport.

Check out our list of wedding venues in Portland.

Some of our favorite places to elope in Portland include…

Cathedral park

Cathedral Park, nestled beneath the iconic St. Johns Bridge in Portland, Oregon, offers couples a picturesque and architecturally rich setting for their wedding day. You’ll see views of the Willamette River and some cool architecture. It’s also a great spot to get away from the city without traveling too far.

Washington Park

Washington Park covers over 400 acres and is home to the International Rose Test Garden, where more than 10,000 roses of over 650 varieties bloom. Additionally, the Oregon Zoo within Washington Park provides a unique setting for memorable photos with its diverse animal exhibits. The Hoyt Arboretum, one of the most popular wedding ceremony spots, features over 2,000 species of trees and shrubs. Washington Park is a favorite of ours when it comes to Portland elopement locations.

Mt. Tabor Park

Mt. Tabor Park, located in Southeast Portland, is a dormant volcanic cinder cone. This provides a unique and elevated vantage point for couples seeking breathtaking views of the city skyline and Mount Hood. The park features scenic reservoirs, walking trails, and lush greenery, perfect for an intimate ceremony.

Oregon Elopement Photographers

To best navigate deciding among these places to elope in Oregon, we suggest teaming up with an experienced elopement photographer who specializes in elopements and small weddings in OR. By teaming up with one of the vendors below you’ll gain incredible insight while planning your PNW elopement adventure.

Most elopement photographers offer custom Oregon elopement packages that will include a detailed timeline, location scouting for more intimate locations, documenting your adventure, and providing valuable tips and advice for what to pack during your elopement and how to properly practice leave no trace.