Location Guides

How to Elope in the Redwoods in 2025

Post Author

Amanda Morales

Amanda Morales

updated Oct 7, 2024

Amanda is Wandering Weddings’ executive editor and first joined Wandering Weddings in 2019.

Read Full Bio

Table of Contents

If you’re looking for a whimsical fairytale elopement, then the redwoods are hands down the best place to elope. The redwood trees can be found on the coasts of California and Oregon, and they are always near water, which makes for a perfect multi-day adventure. There’s so much that goes into a redwoods wedding, so we’re here to break down everything you need to know when planning your adventure near the most epic trees you’ll ever see.

Why Elope in the Redwoods?

Redwoods are the tallest trees in the world, with some growing over 350 feet tall and living for thousands of years. These ancient trees, primarily coastal redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens), are found along the California coast where the fog and cool temperatures create an ideal environment for their growth. Redwood trees are iconic for their deep reddish-brown bark and dense groves, creating a mystical and timeless atmosphere that makes them a perfect setting for an intimate elopement.

Some reasons why couples choose the Redwoods for their elopement:

  • Towering trees, lush green foliage, and soft, filtered light create a serene and romantic backdrop.
  • Eloping in the forest allows for quiet, intimate moments with just you and your partner.
  • Whether you want to exchange vows beneath the towering trees, beside a babbling creek, or on a misty beach near the forest, the Redwoods have a ton to explore!

Quick Steps to Plan Your Elopement in the Redwoods

  1. Choose Your Redwood Park: Decide which park or grove suits your elopement vision. Do you want a remote, secluded spot like Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, or something closer to the main city, like Big Basin Redwoods State Park near San Francisco?
    Check out the park’s accessibility, size, and nearby amenities.
  2. Apply for a Special Use Permit: Contact the park you’ve chosen to find out about the special use permit required for elopements. Most parks have a small fee ($100–$200) and require you to submit your application at least 4–6 weeks in advance.
  3. Get Your California Marriage License: Visit any California County Clerk’s office to apply for your marriage license. You don’t need to be a resident of California to get married there, but you will need a valid ID and both partners present to apply.
  4. Hire Your Vendors: Look for local officiants and photographers who specialize in Redwoods elopements. Many are familiar with the best ceremony spots and can help you navigate the process. Choose vendors who understand Leave No Trace principles and have experience working in natural settings.
  5. Pick Your Elopement Date and Prepare for the Weather: We highly recommend weekdays to avoid huge crowds. The Redwoods can be cool, misty, and damp year-round, so pack layers, and comfortable shoes, and consider bringing umbrellas or waterproof gear if rain is forecasted.
  6. Create Your Elopement Timeline and Have FUN: Think about what you want to do during your adventure, but don’t forget to just have fun!

Where to Elope in the Redwoods

Photo by Sam Starns

The first question that comes up when planning your wedding near redwood trees is, “Where can I elope in the redwood forest?”  There are plenty of options and areas to explore with redwood trees. You probably didn’t know, but the Redwoods actually span hundreds of miles from Oregon to California, meaning there is a whole lot of land to pick from for your wedding day. While most couples will just say they want to elope in the “Redwoods”, there are so many parks and groves to explore.

So how much does it cost to get married in the redwood forest? Your elopement budget will mainly depend on what wedding vendors you are hiring and where in the redwoods you’re planning your ceremony. You’ll want to account for any permits and fees you may need when deciding where to elope.

Let’s talk about some of our favorite places to elope near the redwoods.

Redwood National Park

Location Map

If you want to see some of California’s redwoods, then the first location(s) that come to mind is Redwood National & State Parks. This area spans 140,000 acres and consists of four individual parks (Redwood National Park, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, and Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park).

A special use permit is required to get married here. This permit applies to all weddings, elopements, and vow exchanges. Fees can also depend on the number of guests you are bringing with you. A basic wedding application fee can cost $100 to over $400 if you’re planning an event with over 100 people. When you’re applying for your special use permit, you should also state where you’re going to have your ceremony. There are a handful of pre-approved ceremony sites, but you can also request a location, not on the list. If you do request a new location, however, you’ll need to apply in advance for them to review it.

In 2024, the park systems introduced a new permit process based on park jurisdiction (California state parks vs. National Parks). If your ceremony is in Jedediah Smith, Del Norte Coast, or Prairie Creek Redwoods State Parks, you’ll apply through California State Parks. For ceremonies within National Park boundaries, the National Park Service handles the permit.

Pricing varies depending on the entity and whether the location is pre-approved or requires review. If you’re holding your ceremony in one state park and taking photos in another, you’ll need a separate photography permit. No extra permit is needed for photos in national parks if you already have a ceremony permit. We included the links to each permit below.

Here are the pre-approved State Park locations within Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, or Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park:

You can elope somewhere else in the park, but you have to ask for permission in your application. 

Apply For Your Special Events Permit Here

Here are the pre-approved Redwood National Park locations (These locations have a $100 application fee):

You can pick another location in Redwood National Park, but your application will be $200 and also require review.

Apply For Your Special Use Permit Here

If you’re planning on having an adventure session or commitment ceremony, then your vendors will still need a commercial permit. Keep in mind, that permits can change at any time. The information provided here should be a guideline for couples and vendors to follow when planning their special day. However, please contact the redwood park website in regards to any updates on rules and regulations surrounding special use permits.

Sequoia National Park

Location Map

Sequoia National Park is in central California with some of the most scenic redwood views you’ll ever see. There are multiple wedding locations you can pick in Sequoia that can accommodate anywhere from as many as 75 people to as few as 15 people. A special use permit is required, $150 for the application.

Check out some of Sequoia’s Approved Wedding Locations:

If you’re planning your Redwoods elopement in gorgeous Sequoia National Park, then you need to submit your application 90 days before your wedding date. Please keep in mind two things when planning your wedding at this park: trails are subject to close due to weather and all of these locations to have your ceremony are public. It’s best to work with an experienced elopement vendor to have a plan B (or even C) in place.

Apply For Your Wedding Permit Here

Muir Woods National Monument

Location Map

Muir Woods National Monument is another great option for couples who want to plan a redwood elopement. It’s close to San Francisco, making it a perfect spot to explore before or after your wedding ceremony with family and friends. You will need a special use permit ($60) for your special day, even if it’s just the two of you.

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Location Map

If you’re looking for an elopement adventure near the coast and redwoods, then Julia Pfeiffer is a favorite among our team. The California state park is on the Pacific coast and home to 300-foot redwoods over 2,500 years old. This is the perfect spot for a beach and forest wedding.

You currently need a special event permit for your ceremony here, and permits will be issued for elopement weddings of ten people or less. This is not a spot if you’re planning a small wedding.

Please note: events, elopements, and filming are not allowed at the waterfall overlook, the waterfall overlook trail, Mcway Falls, the redwood picnic area, and areas east of Highway 1. Ewoldsen Trail still remains closed due to the damage from the Dolan fire.

Please consult Julia Pfeiffer Park’s site for further information and updated permit information. 

When to Elope in the Redwoods

Weekends and long holidays are a no-go when it comes to planning an intimate wedding experience near the redwoods. Remember you’re visiting public land, and you can’t reserve specific areas to ensure no one is around during your ceremony. The best time of year to elope in the Redwoods would have to be during the weekdays in March through October.

Mosquitos are pretty intense during the summer months, so be sure to bring along some deet-free mosquito spray. If you’re planning your elopement adventure during the winter here, then have backup locations in mind just in case the trail gets closed off due to snow.

Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in each season and the ideal time of day for your ceremony.

Spring (March-May)

  • Weather: Mild temperatures, with daytime highs between 50–65°F (10–18°C). You’ll also experience misty mornings and some rainfall.
  • Pros: Spring brings vibrant greenery, fresh wildflowers, and fewer crowds compared to summer. It’s a peaceful time to elope amidst the forest awakening from winter.
  • Cons: Some trails may be muddy from recent rains, and weather can be unpredictable.
  • Best Time of Day: Morning or late afternoon offers soft, filtered light through the trees. Early morning also ensures quiet, serene moments with fewer visitors.

Summer (June – August)

  • Weather: Warmer, with highs ranging from 60–75°F (16–24°C). Coastal fog in the mornings gives way to sunny afternoons.
  • Pros: Summer offers dry weather, perfect for hiking and outdoor celebrations. It’s also easier to plan around clearer skies.
  • Cons: Summer is peak tourist season, leading to busier trails and parking areas. Popular spots may be crowded.
  • Best Time of Day: Early morning (before 9 AM) or late afternoon (around 5 PM) to avoid the crowds and enjoy the cooler temperatures. The light is especially enchanting in the early morning when the fog rolls through the trees.

Fall (September – November)

  • Weather: Crisp, cool air with highs of 50–65°F (10–18°C). There’s less fog, and the risk of rain increases as the season progresses.
  • Pros: Fall is ideal for avoiding crowds, and the golden light filtering through the trees creates a stunning backdrop. The forest floor is covered in fallen leaves, adding to the atmosphere.
  • Cons: Rain may start to return by late October, making trail conditions slippery in some areas.
  • Best Time of Day: Mid-morning (around 10 AM) or early afternoon provides the best light and comfortable temperatures. You’ll also get fewer crowds compared to summer.

Winter (December – February)

  • Weather: Cool and damp, with highs between 45–60°F (7–15°C). Rain is common, but this is when the redwoods look their most lush and vibrant.
  • Pros: Winter is the quietest time in the Redwoods, giving you complete serenity and privacy. The forest feels mystical and otherworldly, especially after a fresh rain.
  • Cons: Rainy weather can cause some trails to become inaccessible or slippery, and temperatures can be quite chilly.
  • Best Time of Day: Midday (11 AM to 2 PM) when the sun is highest, offering more warmth and light through the trees.

Best Time of Day for Your Elopement

Regardless of the season, the early morning or late afternoon are generally the best times for your ceremony in the redwoods. These times offer soft, diffused lighting through the trees and a more intimate atmosphere with fewer visitors around. The early morning fog that often rolls through the forest adds a dreamy, ethereal quality to your photos, while late afternoon provides the enchanting “golden hour” light that filters beautifully through the canopy. In the winter months, midday is a better option for maximizing sunlight and warmth during the shorter days.

Wedding License, Permits, and Leave No Trace

Permits for Elopements in the Redwoods

Whether you’re eloping in a state or national park, most locations in the Redwoods require a special use permit for ceremonies. The process varies depending on whether you’re eloping in a California State Park or within the boundaries of a national park.

California State Parks

If your ceremony takes place in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, or Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, you’ll need to apply for a permit through the California State Parks system.

  • Cost: Typically $100–$200, depending on the location.
  • How to Apply: Contact the specific state park’s office or visit their website to submit your application at least 4–6 weeks in advance.

Redwood National Park

If your ceremony is in the national park boundaries, such as Redwood National Park itself, you’ll need to apply through the National Park Service.

  • Cost: Generally around $150–$250, depending on the location and size of your event.
  • How to Apply: Apply via the National Park Service website. Submit your application well in advance, as permits can take several weeks to process.

Photography Permits

If you’re planning to take photos in multiple locations, different rules may apply:

  • State Parks: You may need an additional photography permit if you’re taking photos in a different state park than your ceremony location.
  • National Parks: For national parks, the ceremony permit usually covers photography, so no additional permit is required for photo sessions.

Apply for your permit early (4–6 weeks ahead) through the appropriate park website (California State Parks or National Park Service).

California Marriage License

To legally elope in the Redwoods, you’ll need a California marriage license. Luckily, you don’t need to be a California resident to apply. Here’s what you need to know:

Where to Get It:

You can obtain your marriage license at any California County Clerk’s office. You don’t have to apply in the same county where you plan to elope, which gives you flexibility based on your travel plans.

Requirements:

  • Both partners must appear in person with valid photo IDs (driver’s license, passport, etc.).
  • No waiting period is required, so you can get married the same day you receive your license.
  • There’s no need for a blood test or residency in California.
  • Fees vary by county but typically range from $70–$100.
  • The marriage license is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance, so make sure your elopement falls within this window.
  • You’ll need an officiant to legally marry you, and at least one witness to sign the marriage license. Some couples hire a professional officiant, while others ask a friend or family member. In California, a friend or family member can become a deputy officiant for a day, or you can opt for a self-solemnizing ceremony.

Leave No Trace

The idea of planning an elopement can be exciting, but it’s also our responsibility to remind all couples and vendors of the importance of obtaining the right permits, following all park regulations, and leaving no trace (LNT) during their wedding adventure.

On your wedding day, please pick up after yourself and leave the area exactly as you originally found it. Please stay on the trail and refrain from picking flowers or taking other plants out of the area. When planning your Redwood wedding, it’s also important to not climb the trees. It can be tempting to do so for an epic photo, but you can easily cause a lot of damage to the root system of these gorgeous trees. Another aspect of the redwoods to be aware of is fallen trees (nurse logs). Please be aware these fallen trees are providing a home to small creatures in the area, so please respect their home.

A note on flowers and decorations in the redwoods: Live or dried natural plant/flower material is prohibited. This includes cut flowers for bouquets and potted plants. Live plant materials may contain insects or unwanted pests that could be introduced into the park. Silk or paper flowers are allowed. You are also not allowed to use arbors, arches, stands, risers, or other similar props. For a full list of decoration regulations, check out the redwood’s website.

Elopement Vendors For Your Redwoods Elopement

Photo by Sam Starns

Looking for an all-inclusive elopement package in the Redwoods? The first thing you’ll want to plan for is teaming up with an experienced elopement vendor in the area. Finding a vendor who specializes in Redwood elopement adventures is the perfect way to make sure you have the best experience and respect the lands you’re eloping on.

Leave No Trace (LNT) is huge, especially when it comes to eloping in the redwoods. An experienced vendor will be the perfect resource and guide when it comes to what you should be aware of during your adventure. They are also great when it comes to suggesting more remote elopement and portrait areas that not many tourists know about.

Check out our featured elopement vendors who specialize in redwood elopements below. Remember to ask what they include in their elopement packages! A lot of vendors include location scouting, adventure timelines, and more.

Featured Redwoods Photographers

Best Places to Stay Near The Redwoods

Photo by Meagan Lawler

If you’re looking to stay near the redwoods, then we highly recommend the following accommodations listed below:

Big Sur Cabins & Campground

Glen Oaks Big Sur

Ventana Big Sur

Waterfall Lodge & Retreat

Nearby Airbnbs and Vrbos (perfect for an intimate and unique stay)

Glamping!

Check out some of our favorite places to stay:

Check out this home near Redwood. 

Look at this oceanfront getaway just for 2!

Check out this home with amazing views.

Look at this forest-view cabin!

Look at this home with ocean views!

 

Let’s keep planning your flights and stay in the Redwoods!

What to Do During Your Redwoods Wedding

We love elopements in the redwoods because you have endless opportunities to celebrate your wedding in a unique way.

Here are some of our favorite ideas to incorporate during your redwoods wedding day:

  • Plan a whimsical forest ceremony and coastal adventure (or vice versa)
  • Visit a secluded beach
  • Plan a romantic picnic
  • Get ready within the redwood trees
  • Horseback riding

Photo by Sam Starns

Here’s a list of things to consider when packing for your elopement adventure in the redwoods:

  • Plenty of water and snacks
  • Bug spray
  • Comfortable wedding attire you can easily move in (check out some of our favorite elopement dresses)
  • GOOD hiking shoes
  • Layers if planning to explore during a cooler month
  • A change of clothes if you’re switching out of your wedding attire

Are you ready to elope somewhere among the tallest and grandest trees in the world?

Photo by Sam Starns

Ready to Elope?

Search Vendors