Best Places to Elope in Oregon

Oregon is a stunning state with a diverse range of landscapes that make the perfect backdrop for your elopement day. Whether you’re looking for breathtaking mountains, tranquil lakes, or dramatic coastlines, Oregon has it all. Which might have you wondering, “Which places in Oregon should we consider for our elopement?”

Columbia River Gorge

The Columbia River Gorge is a scenic wonderland that stretches from the Columbia River to the Cascade Mountains. It’s chock full of towering waterfalls, amazing panoramic vistas, and lush forests, making it the perfect place for an intimate wedding celebration. There’s a great variety of accessible scenery both on the Oregon and Washington sides, as well as miles and miles of trails if you’re looking for a full day of adventuring and hiking into a more quiet area to exchange your vows. The Columbia River Gorge is truly one of my favorite places in the entire PNW, not only for photographing elopements, but for my own adventures too.

Oregon Coast

The Oregon Coast is a magical representation of just how much the PNW has to offer. From soft, sandy beaches in the northern coast, to more rugged, dramatic coastlines in the central and southern coast, it can provide the perfect setting for any elopement, no matter if you’re envisioning exchanging vows on the beach with the sound of the waves crashing in the background or on a cliff overlooking the ocean. And don’t forget the forests! In many areas, the Oregon Coast has forests right next to the beaches, giving you both trees and sea to explore and enjoy on your elopement day.

Mount Hood

Mount Hood is Oregon’s tallest mountain and offers a variety of stunning locations for an elopement. From mountain meadows to alpine lakes, Mount Hood provides a breathtaking backdrop for sharing your vows with each other. You could have your ceremony alongside a lake, followed by hiking nearby trails and sharing quiet, meaningful moments with your new spouse, and then end your day with some cozy time at the nearby Timberline Lodge or your own private rented cabin.

Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake National Park is a natural wonder with its deep blue lake and towering cliffs. It’s the perfect place for a unique and unforgettable elopement. You can exchange vows on the rim of the lake with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains or on a boat tour of the lake during certain times of the year. With dozens of pull-offs on the 33 mile Rim Road, you could take a leisurely and gorgeous drive, stopping along the way for photos or just to enjoy the scenery. There are also many trails that run around the rim of the lake and in areas around the lake that are perfect for exploring on an elopement day.

Smith Rock State Park

Smith Rock State Park is a desert oasis with its towering rock formations, canyons, and sweeping views of the Cascade Mountains. It’s an ideal option for an adventurous elopement with its many hiking trails and rock climbing opportunities. You can exchange vows on a scenic hike or on a rock overlooking the park.

Silver Falls State Park

Silver Falls State Park is known as the “crown jewel” of Oregon’s state park system with its 10 stunning waterfalls and lush forests. It’s the perfect place for a romantic elopement with its tranquil trails and natural beauty. You can exchange vows in front of one of the park’s waterfalls or on a scenic hike through the forest. The variety of falls is immense, and you’ll find wide cascading falls, as well as tall single-plunge falls all year round.

Oregon offers an abundance of magnificent locations for an intimate wedding or elopement in nature. Whether you’re looking for a romantic coastal spot or a dramatic mountain landscape, Oregon has it all. These six locations are just a few of the many stunning places to elope in Oregon. Whatever location you choose, remember to stay present with your partner and take space and time to fully experience the place you’re in for this most special and meaningful day.

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Want to elope, but not sure where to start? Check out my other post on What is a Full Day Elopement Experience and if you’re looking for documentation and assistance with your planning process, reach out for a free consultation call.