If you’re here, you must be dreaming of an intimate, breathtaking elopement in Oregon. You’re definitely onto something! With its rugged coastlines, towering forests, cascading waterfalls, and even high desert landscapes, Oregon has some of the most incredible elopement backdrops in the country! 

Whether you’re drawn to the moody vibes of the Oregon Coast, waterfall or mountain views, this Oregon elopement guide will help you plan an unforgettable day that feels totally you!

Table of Contents

• Why Elope in Oregon
• Best Oregon Elopement Locations
• Oregon Elopement Permits
• Getting Your Marriage License
• Best Time to Elope in Oregon
• Where to Stay
• Where to Eat
• Fun Elopement Activities
• What to Pack
• Oregon Elopement Packages

Why Elope in Oregon

Oregon is an elopement paradise, offering everything from dramatic ocean cliffs and towering waterfalls to alpine lakes and wildflower meadows. Whether you want to hike to a secluded spot, run barefoot on the beach, or exchange private vows under the ancient trees, this state has it all.

Plus, eloping here can bring tons of adventure, whatever that looks like for you! Think homey Airbnbs, stunning views, loads of fun activities for the outdoorsy, as well as at the cozy small towns, and the freedom to craft a day that’s a thousand percent yours from start to finish.

Best Oregon Elopement Locations

Whether you’re drawn to dramatic cliffs of the coast, waterfalls, forests, or cute small-town vibes, there is something for every couple! These are some of my favorite Oregon elopement locations!

Oregon Coast Elopement Locations

If you love the idea of wind in your hair, toes in the sand, and a salty breeze filling the air, Oregon Coast is a great choice!

Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Oregon, and it’s an amazing spot for your elopement. Imagine exchanging your vows with the iconic Haystack Rock towering behind you, the mist rolling in from the ocean and soft sand beneath your feet. Plus, Cannon Beach is dog-friendly AND also rather easily accessible without a long hike.

If you’re planning to elope in Cannon Beach, I have a full Cannon Beach elopement guide for you here!

Cape Kiwanda

Cape Kiwanda has the most stunning views of waves crashing against the sandstone cliffs, rolling sand dunes, and some of the best sunset views on the coast. If you’re up for a little adventure, you can hike up the dunes for even better views. Being less crowded, it’s a great alternative to Cannon Beach.

Secret Beach

True to its name, this is a beautiful little beach tucked away along the Southern Oregon coast. It’s got a hidden cove with sea stacks and tide pools. It requires a short but scenic hike to get to it, and it is a great option for a secluded ceremony. I recommend checking the tide charts before eloping, because it is best and more accessible when the tide is low.

Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor

This 12-mile stretch of untouched coastline is one of the most jaw-dropping places in Oregon. It’s got towering cliffs, sea arches, and jagged rock formations in the ocean. It is beautifully moody and cinematic, and if you’re up for a little hike, this might be the spot for you!

Take a look at this Oregon Coast sunset elopement for inspiration!

Southern Oregon Elopement Locations

Southern Oregon is full of hidden coastal gems, cute small towns, dreamy beaches, and lush forests that feel totally untouched. These are some of my faves in the area!

Gold Beach

Gold Beach is a quiet coastal town with secluded beaches and stunning rock formations, perfect for a cozy, laid-back elopement experience. It’s also usually not too crowded, so it really is a great option for an intimate elopement!

Brookings

Brookings is right on the California border and has some of the most breathtaking hidden beaches in Oregon. With sea stacks, misty cliffs, and secret coves, it is a beautiful elopement location away from crowds. If you’re after unreal ocean views and a natural sea arch, you should check out Arch Rock! 

Bandon

Eloping in Bandon feels otherworldly. The sea stacks rise straight out of the sand, mist rolls in at dawn and dusk, and the whole place feels like something out of a dream. It’s easily accessible while still feeling remote. I recommend checking out the Face Rock Scenic Viewpoint for one of the best elopement backdrops in Bandon!

If you’re after more Southern Oregon elopement location ideas, check out this blog!

Oregon Waterfall Elopement Locations

If chasing waterfalls is your thing, Oregon has some of the most breathtaking falls for your elopement backdrop.

Latourell Falls

Just a quick drive from Portland, Latourell Falls cascades down a sheer basalt cliff, creating one of the most epic, moody backdrops for your vows. The place gets bonus points for being a short hike from the parking area! I recommend bringing a clear umbrella in case of mist and splashback – it will look dreamy in photos!

Wahclella Falls

Tucked away in the Columbia River Gorge, Wahclella Falls are framed by towering canyon walls, lush ferns, and lots of moss. It’s an easy 2.4-mile roundtrip hike, so it’s a nice option if you’d like to include a hike in your elopement day. Eloping here during a weekday morning would be the best option for a truly private day.

Tamanawas Falls

Hidden in the Mount Hood National Forest, Tamanawas Falls is an adventurous, off-the-beaten-path elopement location surrounded by towering pine trees and dramatic rock formations. The wide, misty waterfall plunges over a massive basalt cliff, creating an epic backdrop for your vows. There is a bit of a hike to get here, though, so it is best for couples who are really up for an adventure.

Mountain Elopement Locations

For couples who dream of standing on top of the world, wind in their hair, surrounded by towering peaks, these Oregon mountain elopement locations are beyond epic.

Mount Hood

Mount Hood is Oregon’s tallest peak and one of the most well-known locations in Oregon. Whether you want to elope beside an alpine lake, hike up for panoramic mountain views, or exchange vows at a cozy ski lodge, this mountain has endless possibilities for your elopement day. 

Broken Top

Broken Top is one of Oregon’s most breathtaking backcountry locations. If you’re up for an adventurous hike-in elopement, you’ll be rewarded with dramatic ridgelines, wildflower meadows, and a hidden alpine lake with insane mountain reflections.

If you want an easy-access lake with mountain views, consider Sparks Lake, which offers similar vibes without a long hike.

Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake is one of the most unique elopement locations possible. It’s a deep blue lake (the seventh deepest in the world!) inside an ancient volcano! And the National Park is made up of 183,224 acres of mountains, peaks, evergreen forests, and, of course, the lake, so you have many stunning options for your backdrops.

Forest Elopement Locations

There’s something so magical about towering trees, soft moss underfoot, and golden sunlight filtering through the branches. Oregon’s forests feel straight out of a storybook.

Columbia River Gorge

The Columbia River Gorge is home to lush, fern-filled trails, hidden waterfalls, and some of the greenest forests you’ll ever see. The area is perfect if you want a mix of forest and waterfall views for your elopement. It’s got plenty of easy-access locations and some off-the-beaten-path spots that would require a hike, so something for every adventurer!

Silver Falls State Park

Silver Falls State Park is perfect for waterfall lovers who are after easy forest trails and those moody vibes PNW is known for. It has TEN waterfalls, and you can even walk behind some of them.

The Redwoods

While the Redwoods are technically in California, just over the Oregon border, they’re too good not to include. These massive, ancient trees create the most amazing, magical “tree cathedral” setting, making it one of the most breathtaking places for a forest elopement. 

If the Redwoods are calling your name, take a look at this Redwood National Park elopement guide to help you plan the perfect day!

High Desert Elopement Locations

Yes, Oregon has a desert—and it is absolutely breathtaking in its own unique way. Wide-open spaces, dramatic rock formations, and some of the best stargazing in the country.

Steens Mountain

Steens Mountain is one of the most remote, breathtaking places in Oregon. It’s got deep canyons, golden grasslands, and endless views. This is where you come to elope if you’re after a wild and untamed atmosphere for your elopement. Since it is so remote, you definitely need to take extra precautions and bring maps and extra supplies for your trip.

Alvord Desert

Alvord Desert is a vast, dry lake bed that stretches for miles, with mountains towering in the background. If you love minimalist, otherworldly landscapes, this is your spot. With one of the darkest night skies in the country, stargazing here is a wonderful way to end your elopement day!

Central Oregon Elopement Locations

Central Oregon is one of the more diverse regions in the state, with plenty of elopement location options, including high deserts, alpine lakes, forests, and rock formations.

Smith Rock State Park

Smith Rock State Park has amazing canyon views, golden desert light, and insane rock formations. The rocks look particularly great during the golden hour glow! There are also towering cliffs and dramatic rock spires, perfect if you’d also like to have some adventure and go for a climb here. It is a nice option if you’re after epic views that don’t require a long hike.

Sparks Lake

Sparks Lake is a beautiful alpine lake with insane views of South Sister and Broken Top mountains. If you’re after an intimate lakeside elopement with mountain backdrops, this could be the spot for you! Plus, it is easily accessible, and you can get great views without strenuous hikes.

Bend, Oregon

Bend is the perfect playground for adventure-loving couples. Here, you’ll find snowy peaks, high desert cliffs, dense forests, and even hidden hot springs. If you want a spot with TONS of variety, Bend is perfect because you can have your first look at a forest, your ceremony with mountain views, and photos by the river. There are also many craft breweries, art galleries, and more things to do in the city!

Oregon Elopement Permits

Depending on the location you choose for your Oregon elopement, ceremony permits may be required. More often than not, they are required on lands within National or State Parks or other protected areas. However, if you’re eloping at a public beach, most likely, you will not need any permits unless you’re planning a larger wedding.

According to the Oregon State Parks website, “Call the park (or the nearest park to the beach location) to discuss your plans, possible permits, fees, and insurance requirements. You may also call the Information Line at 800-551-6949 and ask for the phone number of the nearest park.” 

It’s always good to double-check information about permits once you settle on a location, just to be safe! As your Oregon Coast elopement photographer, I’m here to guide you through the permit process and ensure everything is in place ahead of your big day!

Parking Passes

Depending on which locations you’re planning to visit, and especially if you’re planning a road trip along the coast, you should consider getting one of the parking passes! These allow easy and quick access to parking spots, camping sites, and other recreational facilities in the covered areas.

Getting Your Marriage License

To legally elope in Oregon, you’ll need an Oregon marriage license. Once you obtain a marriage license in Oregon, it’s valid statewide, so you can have your ceremony anywhere within the state. However, the license must be returned to the county where it was issued for official recording.

In Oregon, your marriage license has a 3-day waiting period, so you can only get married 3 days after you pick it up. The license is valid for up to 60 days, so your ceremony must occur within this window. After your elopement, ensure the completed license is returned to the county clerk’s office for recording to officially recognize your marriage. 

To make it official, you’ll also need an officiant and two witnesses. As your Oregon elopement photographer, I’d be happy to be one of them! And we can always find a nearby hiker to sign as your second witness if you’re not planning to bring any guests.

Documentation

Be sure to understand the specific documentation and requirements set by the county where you obtain your marriage license. Each county may have slightly different procedures.

Hot Tip

If you don’t want to worry about all these things for your elopement, you can get legally married beforehand and then head out for your adventures later!

Best Time to Elope in Oregon

Oregon is a great elopement destination all year round, but your experience can vary greatly depending on the season AND your chosen location! Winter along the coast will look different in the mountains, for example. Keep in mind that Mother Nature can be unpredictable, especially in the mountains and along the coast, so always be prepared with layers and waterproof gear.

Spring is great if you love wildflowers and waterfalls. During springtime, waterfalls are at their peak flow, and places like the Columbia River Gorge and Silver Falls State Park are absolutely magical. However, this season can still be rainy, especially on the coast and in the mountains, so a solid backup plan is always a good idea.

Summer brings the longest daylight hours and warmer weather, perfect for adventurous elopements with hiking, kayaking, or camping. There’s more time for you to explore and capture epic photos along the way! The mountain locations should already be available after all the winter snow and spring mudding season being over, and wildflowers should be in full bloom as well! 

However, summer is also wildfire season in Oregon, so it’s important to stay updated on the conditions. It’s also peak tourist season, so I’d highly recommend going for a sunrise and weekday elopement!

Fall is one of the absolute best times to elope in Oregon. The crowds have thinned and you’ll get some of the clearest skies of the year. Plus, the changing leaves add gorgeous colors to the landscapes! Early fall can still be warm, while late fall brings crisp air and the possibility of snow in higher elevations.

Winter is moody and romantic, especially if you love snow-covered landscapes and cozy vibes. Heavy snowfall often turns the mountains into a winter wonderland, while the coast gets moody and dramatic. Locations like Cape Perpetua, Cannon Beach, and Bandon are breathtaking in stormy weather, with giant waves and misty cliffs. Overall, be mindful of potential road closures in higher elevation areas, and always check the forecast ahead of time!

Where to Stay

Oregon is one of the largest states in the US, so there are definitely plenty of amazing places to stay, depending on your chosen elopement location and the experience you’d like to have. There are hotels, luxury lodges, Airbnbs, cozy inns, glamping and camping opportunities, and tree houses!

When you’re choosing the best place for you, I’d really recommend something that could double as an indoor elopement location in case of adverse weather, and make sure that it isn’t toooo far away from your ceremony and adventure spot so you’d get to spend more time enjoying yourselves and not so much on the commuting.

Here are some ideas for your stay:

• Beachfront Inn: This inn has amazing views already from your own room and the beach is right at your doorstep, with many beautiful hikes in the area. The Redwoods are also only about 25 miles away, so you can combine the beachy and forest vibes for your trip!
  
  
• Out ‘n’ About Treehouses: Located in Cave Junction, this unique resort offers multiple treehouses for a super fun, adventurous stay! Here, you can go ziplining, rafting, and enjoy horseback riding, and there are plenty of places to visit and trails to hike at Cave Junction!
  
  
• Sunriver Resort: This resort near Bend provides luxury accommodations with access to over 40 miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as water sports on the Deschutes River and nearby volcanic landscapes to check out. The resort also has pools and a golf course!
  
  
• FivePine Lodge: Nestled in the charming town of Sisters, OR, this lodge blends luxury with a cabin-in-the-woods vibe. The cabins are well equipped with fireplaces and soaking tubs, perfect for a dreamy post-elopement relaxation. Plus, they have easy access to hiking trails, nearby waterfalls, and adventure opportunities.
  
  
• Lake Creek Lodge: Tucked away in Camp Sherman near the crystal-clear Metolius River, this lodge offers charming vintage cabins surrounded by towering pines. Here, you can have fun fly fishing, hiking along the river, or simply chilling in the beautiful, rustic cabin.

Where to Eat

Oregon has a pretty awesome food scene, and while it doesn’t have one single defining dish like deep-dish pizza in Chicago, it is known for its fresh and locally sourced ingredients, as well as its craft beers and IPAs. There are over 200 different breweries all across the state! 

If you’re eloping somewhere along the coast, you’ll have many options for great seafood. Dungeness crab is THE thing to try! But you’ll also find wild salmon dishes and other seafood, like clams, oysters, halibut, and more.

There are also over 1000 wineries in the state. Oregon’s Willamette Valley is world-famous for its Pinot Noir, which is considered some of the best in the world, so you could definitely treat yourself to some of that for your elopement.

Fun Elopement Activities

An elopement day is not about how much time you spend in front of the camera. It’s about the full-day elopement experience you create to cherish and remember forever. Filling your day with things you love to do will make it THAT much more meaningful.

On your elopement day, I am your guide, coordinator, friend, and, of course, photographer. Together, we get to run around and explore the beautiful locations you have chosen, creating personal moments and memories, catching a break, and, yes—time for posing and getting those amazing shots.

Here are some fun things to do in Oregon if you want to really take the time to travel around and enjoy everything this beautiful area has to offer. Some of these are only available in specific parts of Oregon and can be seasonal!

• Hike or take a ski lift to a stunning viewpoint on Mt. Hood, Mt. Bachelor, or the Wallowas.
• Chase waterfalls – Oregon has over 200! You can have your ceremony there or just a hike to enjoy the views.
• Go kayaking or paddleboarding.
• Take a Boat Tour on Crater Lake.
• Visit the Oregon Coast Cliffs.
• Have a beach bonfire (make sure it’s allowed in your chosen location!)
• Go horseback riding on the beach.
• Go stargazing int he Alvord Desert.
• Go rock climbing together at the Smith Rock.
• Book a Treehouse stay.
• Visit a lavender or wildflower field.
• Visit one of the natural hot springs.
• Go camping 
• Enjoy a picnic with a view
• First Dance
• Cake cutting/eating dessert
• Reading letters from friends and family
• Catered dinner at your Airbnb
• Have an intimate reception with your loved ones
• Take sunset photos along the coast 
• Rent a vintage car or a jeep
• and so much more…

What to Pack

This is a rough idea of what you should consider packing. Depending on the activities and timeline you have in mind for your day, you may need some additional items that are not included.

• Download offline road and trail maps for all locations
• Headlamps/flashlights
• Bluetooth speaker for the first dance
• Snacks and water
• Vow books
• Rings
• Bouquet
• Sunscreen
• Layers because it can be cold before sunrise 
• Shoes with traction that you don’t mind being photographed in
• Blanket
• Waterproof layers and makeup
• Clear Umbrellas!
• First aid kit
• Deodorant
• Bug spray
• Extra battery pack for phones
• Marriage License

My Oregon Elopement Packages

Hi! I’m Christina, your Oregon and beyond adventure elopement photographer. I love planning, traveling, and finding beautiful locations and experiences. Helping you create and document the celebration of a lifetime brings me the utmost joy! I want you to make amazing memories and have stunning photos that you can share with all of your loved ones. This is a day where you get to look back and say, “Wow, we did that!”My Oregon elopement packages offer a half-, full-–, or multi-day experience! I offer a ton of flexibility in designing our time together and would love to get to know you more to help you plan! To learn more, head over to my contact form, and we can get together on a call!

Offered throughout every Oregon elopement package:

• Help you hand pick a location
• Provide resources and custom location guides on lodging, activities, and the best places to indulge in delicious foods.
• Scout locations with boots on the ground to find the best places and lighting for your ceremony and photos
• Secure the right location permits to make sure your wedding is legal!
• Recommend vetted vendors to help make your dream of a day come true. 
• Create your custom timeline (there are 2-3 options to choose from!) with room to breathe and enjoy your day.
• Deliver a joyful experience along with swoon-worthy photos in your own online gallery!
• Have a backup plan for it all!
• Deliver sneak peeks within 72 hours and a full wedding gallery within 6 weeks! 
• Provide a Fine Art Wedding Album design for you to print and hold onto your photos to thumb through for years to come.