How to Elope in North Cascades National Park
Ahhh the “Swiss Alps” of America! North Cascades truly offers some stunning mountain views and it is one of the least visited national parks in the United States, making it a total hidden gem! It is home to some of my most recommended elopement locations for couples looking to elope amongst the mountains, glaciers, and lakes.
Fortunately for you, I know my way around this hidden gem, and I’m here to share all the crucial information if you’re considering eloping in North Cascades National Park. Ready to learn why this is a personal favorite, and why my gut tells me you’ll love it, too? Read on.
How To Get To North Cascades National Park
By Plane:
The best way to get to North Cascades National Park would be to fly into the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. The airport is located about 3 hours from the park. You can also fly into the Bellingham International Airport which is a bit closer at 1 hour 30 minutes away. However, the airport is much smaller than Seattle so airfare can be more pricey.
By Car:
No matter which airport you choose to fly to, the best way to get around North Cascades National Park is by renting a car. A standard sedan will be good for most locations. However, there are remote locations that require a 4WD high clearance vehicle to access, to avoid damage. I would recommend choosing your elopement location before booking your rental vehicle.
Pro Tip: Download offline Google Maps directions on your phone so that even when you lose service as you get closer to the park, you can still receive navigation.
The Best Time Of Year To Elope In The North Cascades
Spring
Spring is very unpredictable weather-wise in the North Cascades and most locations will be completely inaccessible due to snowfall. While there does seem to be some snow melt by late spring, most locations that will be accessible will be very muddy with lots of puddles. Due to the magnitude of the occasion and level of risk, it’s best to avoid the spring in the North Cascades.
Summer
Summer in the North Cascades really doesn’t start until mid-July. BUT once it arrives, what was once inaccessible becomes a playground of beauty! The trails are finally snow-free, the wildflowers flourish, the weather is the warmest, and everything is so green! Of course, that makes it by far the busiest season as well, so I recommend some strategic planning, such as weekdays, sunrise or sunset, to avoid the crowds.
Fall
September and early October are good alternatives to peak summer time. The trails are still snow-free, but crowds have slimmed. Green scenery starts to fade and is replaced by the vibrant fall colors that have a trippy effect. For only a precious few weeks, the larches' needles turn their prime golden color. If you are planning in an area with larches, I would highly recommend a weekday around sunrise for the most secluded experience (there’s a reason locals use the term “Larch Madness”!).
Winter
Winter brings TONS of snow, causing many locations to become inaccessible. Winter is also extremely long in this area, with the first snowfall occurring around mid-October and snow melt usually does not finish until mid-July. Due to the road closures and the sheer danger of driving the windy roads in the snow, I don’t recommend eloping in the Cascades during this time of year, making both Spring and Winter out of bounds. Still, the beauty of the rest of the year more than makes up for it, which is why I still recommend North Cascades regularly.
Best Places To Elope In North Cascades National Park
How To Get An Elopement Permit For Your North Cascades National Park Elopement
A “special use permit” is required for all wedding ceremonies held within North Cascades National Park. Failure to get the permit will result in a ranger stopping the ceremony and even banning you from the park (yes this really happens), so it is extremely important to get the permit for your elopement.
The process to obtain a special use permit is very easy. Simply follow the steps below and you’re good to go!
Email North Cascades National Park through their contact form found here, asking for the application for your elopement.
Fill out the Special Use Permit Application and send it back via email.
Pay the $50 application fee through the NPS website found here.
After the permit is processed (usually within 4-6 weeks), you’ll receive your official copy via email. Don’t forget to print this out and bring it with you on your elopement day!
If you are getting married within the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie Forest (right near the border of North Cascades), you won’t need a permit if you have less than 75 people attending your wedding. Artist Point, a popular location, is located here.
Pro tip: As an elopement photographer, I help with all things permits! If any of this information is confusing, or you’re unsure where your elopement location is located, reach out! All of my North Cascades elopement packages include permit assistance.
How To Get A Washington Marriage License
To get a marriage license in Washington, you’ll need to visit a County Clerk’s office within the state 3 days before your wedding with your photo ID. It costs $72. Simply fill out the application, wait 3 days to pick up the license, and you’re good to go! If you don’t live in Washington, you can fill out the online application, have it notarized, and then send it back with a check or money order.
You will need an officiant and two witnesses in order to elope in Washington.
Just So You Know: I am an ordained officiant and can legally sign on your marriage certificate in most U.S. states. Certain states may require additional paperwork and/or processing fees but I’m happy to help! However, if you would like an actual celebrant to verbally walk you through a ceremony, I know some great people who can do that for you.
Where To Stay For Your North Cascades National Park Elopement
Glacier + Deming
Rockport + Marblemount + Concrete
Bellingham
North Cascades National Park Elopement Packages
I’m much more than a photographer, I’m someone who is super passionate about supporting couples on their big day, from scouting hidden gems for the ideal location, stress-free planning, and of course capturing raw, authentic moments. As a West Coast photographer specializing in adventure elopements, you’ll be in safe hands. So, are you ready to say yes to North Cascades National Park?! More information on my packages below:
Packages
4 hours, 8 hours, 12 hours, or 2 Day elopement photography
A personalized elopement planning experience with unlimited assistance
Personalized elopement location recommendation list
Vendor, lodging, and activity recommendations
Custom-built-for-you elopement timeline
Assistance to help you with permits and licenses
90+ page elopement planning guide with my best tips & tricks
Optional complimentary officiant services
Online gallery with full resolution images and printing rights
5-7 day sneak peeks
Travel fees to anywhere in Washington are already included
Starting at $4000
Video Add-Ons
For an extra special, immersive reminder of your special day, I now offer the following options for video add ons to your elopement packages:
Documentary style highlight reel
Super 8 film
Ceremony recording
BTS iPhone video content