Washington Elopement at Artist Point in North Cascades National Park

Why Elope in North Cascades National Park?

North Cascades National Park (NCNP) is one of the most underrated and lesser visited National Parks in the United States. You know what that means for eloping??  It means that eloping in the North Cascades National Park is going to be a more private experience!

North Cascades National Park has breathtaking views of jagged mountain peaks that seem to go on forever, glaciers, colorful alpine lakes, rugged landscape, and so many waterfalls!  My favorite time of year to visit is in the Fall because the reds, oranges and yellows are magnificent.

Cool Fact: NCNP has over 300 glaciers…the most glaciers of any national park in the lower 48 states!

When people look into eloping in the North Cascades, many of the epic locations aren’t actually inside of the National Park. They are in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. What that means is that all you need is a non-fee permit for your ceremony. You can also bring your dog(s) with you!!


Best places to Elope in North Cascades National Park

  1. Artist Point
  2. Picture Lake
  3. Chain Lakes Loop
  4. Heather – Maple Pass Loop
  5. Blue Lake
  6. Cutthroat Lake

Artist Point

Picture Lake

Best friend officiates elopement at Picture Lake
Couple look at Mount Shuksan from Picture Lake during Autumn in Mount Baker Wilderness

Chain Lakes Loop

Heather – Maple Pass Loop

Heather Maple Loop Pass, Outshined Photography

Blue Lake

Cutthroat Lake

Cutthroat Lake in Fall in North Cascades National Park
Cutthroat Lake Trail in North Cascades National Park

North Cascades Permit Information

If you do select a location inside of the National Park, you need a permit to elope in North Cascades National Park. The application fee is only $50 and you can get that through the National Park website.

If you choose to elope outside of North Cascades National Park, in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest area, the permit requirements and prices vary every year. It’s best to contact me directly, so I can provide the most current information.

North Cascades Accessibility

Some of these locations are easily accessible, but most of them require a hike of at least 2 miles round trip. That’s another great reason to elope in the North Cascades – if you’re an avid hiker and excited to hike on your wedding day, then you can get further into the wilderness, see more beauty and be farther away from other people.

The North Cascades are most accessible during the summer (July – August) and fall (September – October) months. Some roads close from November – June each year. You can still access some of the area with snowshoes or cross country skies during the winter months.

You can learn even more about eloping in the North Cascades by reading the Pacific Northwest Elopement Guide.

Why you should consider eloping in the North Cascades

When planning to elope Washington State, a majority of people think of eloping in Mount Rainier National Park.  It is a beautiful area, but I encourage you to consider eloping in North Cascades National Park. It is called the North American Alps!!

I also have a resource that will provide you with detailed information on How to Elope in Washington State and more information on how to elope in the North Cascades National Park.

Stacy is the washington elopement photographer for Outshined Photography

Stacy – North Cascades National Park Elopement Photographer

Do you love having new adventures together as a couple? Then what better way to start your life together than adventuring on your own terms on your wedding day.

I am here to help you work through the details, envision your special day, find the perfect location and activities, and then be there to make it happen! My approach as a photographer is to capture those loving moments that you will want to remember forever. I keep things light and fun.

I am also ordained! So, if you need someone to perform your ceremony, I’ve got you covered.

I believe that eloping is the most authentic way to start your life together. If you’re looking for a photographer to be your biggest supporter and help you have a stress-free day, then you’ve found her!

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16 Comments

  1. The north cascades area is so stunning! Such a great place to explore and enjoy! With do many options in the park, this list of top 5 locations is great! ❤️

  2. Yessss!! These are all such great spots!! The North Cascades are so beautiful – it’s my favorite national park! It’s perfect for elopements and these spots you mentioned are all incredible!

  3. YOU SOLD ME! I’M TOTALLY GOING TO GO VISIT THIS PARK NOW AND TRY TO CONVINCE COUPLES TO ELOPE THERE. I LOVE THE MOUNTAINS AND THE STUNNING BLUE WATERS OF THOSE LAKES! CAN’T GET MUCH BETTER THAN THAT!!

  4. I’ve only been to NoCa once to climb Forbidden peak and it has my heart! What an amazingly wild national park and this makes me want to shoot an elopement there! Good to know there are easy to access locations and your couples will love this guide!