Eloping in the Northern California Redwoods is an incredible experience for couples who love nature and adventure. Here, you can elope in an intimate, unique setting of being surrounded by ancient giant trees and be connected to nature and each other. 

Whether it’s just the two of you or a few of your favorite people, sharing an intimate day among the towering groves will leave you feeling even more in love and in awe with this beautiful life. There are so many ways you could go about your Redwood National Park elopement. Maybe you’re dreaming of a full-fledged adventure through the redwoods throughout the day, or perhaps wanting a slow morning getting ready with a beautiful ceremony in an easily accessible grove. After, you can enjoy a short hike and finish with an intimate dinner among the trees or an outstanding sunset along the gorgeous beaches.

If this sounds like a dream, then let’s bring your elopement vision to life and chat about how to plan your Redwood National Park elopement!

Your Redwood National Park Elopement Guide

• Why Elope in Redwood National Park?
• The Overview of State and National Parks
• Redwoods Ceremony Locations & Permits
• Getting Your Marriage License
• Best Season for Your Redwood National Park Elopement
• How to Choose a Park and Where to Stay
• Accommodations for Your Elopement
• How to Get to the Redwood National Park?
• Fun Elopement Activities
• Best Hikes in the Redwoods
• Sample Redwood National Park Elopement Itineraries
• What to Bring With You
• Average Cost of a Redwood National Park Elopement
• Redwood Elopement Packages

Why Elope in Redwood National Park?

Redwood National Park offers the most unique elopement locations. These ancient forests are only found in a narrow strip along the coast of Northern California and Southern Oregon. The giant trees can live up to 2,000 years and some even longer!

If you’ve been considering eloping here, I really recommend it because:

Breathtaking Backdrop

You’ll get an unparalleled backdrop with towering trees and overall beautiful, green forests.

Accessible Views

You get to have beautiful views without needing to do a lot of hiking (unless you want to!)

Intimate

The secluded and private locations are perfect for an intimate ceremony.

Variety

While the Redwoods are known, well, for the redwoods, the park offers way more landscapes than just forests. There are beaches, meadows, and coastal views for days!

Things To Consider When Planning Your Redwood Elopement

While Redwood National Park is an absolutely amazing location, there are some quirks that might make it challenging. But these considerations are not unique only to the Redwoods, but to planning an adventure elopement anywhere in the US or the world. With a bit of planning and preparation, you can navigate them easily!

• Weather can be unpredictable, especially in the winter and spring seasons.
• Some locations are very remote, so can be a bit difficult to access and far from major cities.
• You may not get cell service, so be prepared to be off-grid and download any maps offline.
• You’ll need to secure permits for most locations, which can involve extra planning and fees. It’s still cheaper than booking a whole wedding venue, though.

The State and National Parks to Choose From

Nestled along the scenic North Coast of California and Oregon, Redwood National and State Parks offer a breathtaking natural escape. They are made up of four parks spanning from the inland town of Ukiah, CA, and the coastal charm of Fort Bragg, CA, up to the picturesque landscapes of Josephine County, OR. As you journey along Highway 101 heading north, you’ll notice a dramatic shift in the scenery. The dry oak woodlands of California gradually give way to the towering Douglas-fir and majestic coast redwoods, all set against a backdrop of a lush, moist climate that’s unique to this part of the world. The transformation in vegetation is a clear sign that you’re entering a truly special and magical place.

Below is a map (courtesy of California State Parks 2015) of the many beautiful redwood parks in California. However, this blog highlights the Redwood State and National Parks in Northern California. Scroll past the map to see a feature of some of my favorite redwood parks!

Redwood National and State Parks

Redwood National and State Parks: This collection of parks is managed together and includes some of the most iconic redwood areas:

• Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park: Known for Fern Canyon and Gold Bluffs Beach, this park offers a diverse range of scenery, from dense redwood groves to dramatic coastal views.
  
• Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park: This park features coastal redwoods with stunning ocean vistas, providing a beautiful blend of forest and sea.
  
• Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park: Notable for its dense stands of old-growth redwood groves and the beautiful Smith River. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking a more secluded and immersive redwood experience.

Honorable Mention – Richardson Grove State Park

Located along Highway 101, Richardson Grove State Park showcases over 1800 acres of ancient redwoods and is easily accessible for travelers through the area. Here, you can camp, picnic, and hike on nine miles of trails. Perfect for a hiking adventure surrounded by the forests!

Other Parks Located Just South of The Redwood National and State Parks

Mendocino County

Van Damme State Park: Located near Fort Bragg, this park is known for its unique pygmy forests and lush fern canyons. It offers a serene and picturesque setting for those looking to explore beyond the towering redwoods.

Mendocino Headlands State Park: This park offers stunning coastal views and trails near the charming town of Mendocino. It is perfect for couples wanting to combine ocean scenery with their redwood experience.

Russian Gulch State Park: While this park does not feature redwoods, it boasts beautiful waterfalls, dense forests, and scenic coastal views.

Jug Handle State Natural Reserve: This reserve is ideal for understanding redwoods within the context of Mendocino County’s dramatic coastal geology. The 2.5-mile Ecological Staircase Trail takes visitors through three distinct wave-cut terraces, traveling from windswept bluffs, through stands of coast redwoods, and up to a pygmy forest.

Hendy Woods State Park: For those specifically seeking redwoods, Hendy Woods State Park is the best option in Mendocino County. Located about an hour inland from Mendocino in the Anderson Valley, this park features beautiful old-growth redwoods and is well worth the drive inland.

Humboldt County

Humboldt Redwoods State Park: This park is home to the famous Avenue of the Giants, a scenic drive-through towering redwoods. The drive offers easy access to magnificent groves and is a must-see for any redwood adventure. It’s really well worth it if you don’t mind being more in the land. 

This park has its own system for ceremonies, permits, and restrictions, so please check this site for all the information!

Ceremony Locations in the Redwood Parks

Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park make up the Redwood National and State Parks. The Redwood State Parks have are seven pre-approved ceremony locations. Other locations within these parks may be selected, but availability is subject to review.

There are five pre-approved ceremony locations within Redwood National Park. Other locations can be chosen within Redwood National Park but require a $200 application fee, staff review and are subject to peak-hour blackouts.

Choosing a ceremony location is one of the first places to start in planning your Redwood Elopement! From here we can design how all the other amazing parts of your day come together.

Ceremony Locations within State Parks

Templeman Grove

Guest Count: Up to 20 participants

Nestled among ancient redwoods, Templeman Grove offers a serene and majestic setting perfect for an intimate ceremony. It’s also one of the easiest locations to reach, being just a few minutes from Highway 101, so your guests won’t need to hike too far!

Organ Donor’s Cove

Guest Count: Up to 20 participants

A beautiful, peaceful spot surrounded by the redwoods, ferns and greenery. The light filtering through the trees creates a beautiful, almost spiritual atmosphere – so beautiful!

RIVER TRAIL

Guest Count: Up to 8 participants

If you love the idea of a riverside ceremony, the River Trail is your spot. It’s intimate and picturesque, with the sound of the Smith River adding a soothing background to your vows.

MERRIMAN GROVE

Guest Count: Up to 8 participants

Are you looking for something super private? Merriman Grove is tucked away within the redwoods, giving you a secluded and intimate setting.

ZIG ZAG #2

Guest Count: Up to 10 participants

The name says it all – Zig Zag #2 takes you on a little adventure through winding trails before opening up to a quiet, beautiful clearing. It’s unique and a bit off the beaten path, making it perfect for couples who want something different and memorable.

SCHMIDT GROVE

Guest Count: Up to 20 participants

Schmidt Grove is all about those grand, majestic redwoods located at the end of a dirt road. It’s got a big, open feel with towering trees that make you feel like you’re in a storybook!

PRARIE CREEK AMPHITHEATER

Guest Count: Up to 20 participants (available October 25th – May 1)

This natural amphitheater is surrounded by redwoods and provides a unique, semi-enclosed space that feels private yet connected to nature. It’s great for a small group, however, it’s also one of the more popular ceremony spots, so you need to apply to get this as soon as possible!

Permits

Once a location has been selected, please follow the steps listed here to apply: Special Event Permits (ca.gov)

Ceremony Locations for a Redwood National Park Elopement

Crescent Beach Overlook & Day Use

Guest Count: Up to 20 participants (available October 25th – May 1)

This spot offers panoramic views of the ocean and the forest. It’s perfect for a relaxed beach vibe! This is where you’d also want to opt for a sunrise or sunset ceremony to get the best backdrops!

Lost Man Creek Gate

Guest Count: Up to 20 participants

Nestled in a quiet forest setting, Lost Man Creek Gate offers a peaceful and scenic spot with the gentle sound of the creek nearby. It’s a lovely, peaceful place for a small ceremony.

High Bluff Overlook

Guest Count: Up to 20 participants

High Bluff Overlook offers dramatic, cliffside views of the ocean. It’s perfect for couples who want a ceremony with a bit of an edge – literally! The high bluffs make for some stunning photo ops, too.

Berry Glen

Guest Count: Up to 6 participants

Berry Glen is perfect for the tiniest of gatherings, offering a secluded and intimate setting within the redwoods and fern meadows.

Permits

Fill out the Special Use Application. Complete applications must include a specific location, date and time, group size, and number of vehicles. Email your application to redw_special_use_permits@nps.gov. Due to the park’s geographic layout, mailed copies will experience significant delays. After receiving your application, you will receive an email from Pay.gov to pay the application fee.

Getting Your Marriage License

If you obtain a marriage license in one county, you are not restricted to getting married in that specific county. You can have your wedding ceremony in any California county. However, the license must be returned to the county where it was issued for official recording.

The marriage license is typically valid immediately upon issuance and for up to 90 days. This means that you must have your marriage ceremony within the 90-day period, and the completed license must be returned to the county clerk’s office for recording.

In California, couples have the option to self-solemnize their wedding, which means they can act as their own officiants during the marriage ceremony. This allows couples to exchange their vows and legally marry without the need for an external officiant. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Self-Solemnization Rights: California law permits self-solemnization, allowing couples to marry without an officiant. This is particularly useful for couples who prefer a private and intimate ceremony.
  
• Marriage License Requirements: Even if you choose to self-solemnize, you must still obtain a valid marriage license from the county clerk’s office before the ceremony.
  
• Completing the Marriage License: When you self-solemnize, both partners must sign the marriage license as the officiants. Ensure that you follow the county’s guidelines for completing and returning the license.
  
• Witnesses (Optional): While not required for self-solemnization, some couples choose to have witnesses present during the ceremony. Check with your county clerk’s office to confirm local regulations.

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 Season for Your Redwood National Park Elopement

Overall, Redwood National Park is less busy than some of the other popular spots in Northern California, except for the summer—summers always bring people. Summers are nice and warm but crowded, so expect more people in the locations and also higher accommodation prices.

Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, adding vibrant colors to the already stunning redwood forests. It is also a beautiful time for elopements, with fewer crowds than the summer months. 

Fall is beautiful, with gorgeous foliage, decently warm weather, and smaller crowds. Winter is nice if you want to enjoy some peace and quiet and don’t mind some rain. Overall, this is one of the best spots for winter elopement because it remains open all year round!

Whichever season you choose, make sure you’re prepared for the ever-changing weather by bringing along waterproof clothing, layers, and good, sturdy boots to trek the trails.

How to Choose a Park and Where You Want to Stay?

As you choose where to elope and where to stay, you should consider a few things, such as: Do you want to be closer to a major city? Are you open to driving? Do you want to explore the redwoods and the coastline all in one day, or make it a multi-day adventure? Think about whether you want to stay in a hotel/resort or a beautiful Airbnb or VRBO. Is it important to have quick access to a store and amazing cell service? Is accessibility important? 

There are many things to consider when choosing a location, but if you choose me as your Northern California elopement photographer, my questionnaire will help you dive deep into your wants. Together, we will put together the most amazing plan!

You’ll find redwoods throughout the state and National Parks from Mendocino to Crescent City. It all depends on the experience you’re looking to create. Dreaming of spending the day exploring the redwoods up and down the coast, stopping into multiple parks along the way? These cities and towns offer a scenic and diverse route through coastal Northern California and Southern Oregon, providing a mix of redwood forests, picturesque coastlines, and charming communities:

• Trinidad, CA
• Orick, CA
• Klamath, CA
• Crescent City, CA
• Smith River, CA
• Brookings, OR
• Gold Beach, OR

If you want to stay in a larger city with great amenities, I’d particularly recommend:

• Mendocino: A quaint coastal town with charming inns and bed & breakfasts. It’s close to several state parks and the coast.

• Eureka: Known for its historic Victorian architecture, a variety of accommodations, and proximity to Humboldt Redwoods State Park.

• Arcata: A vibrant, college-town vibe with unique shops and restaurants.

• Fort Bragg: A coastal city with a small-town charm and easy access to the Skunk Train and Glass Beach.

Accommodations for Your Redwood National Park Elopement

Here are some places to stay for a cozy, beautiful stay during your Redwood National Park elopement!

• Sea Rock Inn is a charming cottage-style hotel with beautiful ocean views.

• Heritage House Resort and Spa is a luxurious, rustic cliffside retreat located on 37 acres of gorgeous property. 
  
• Brewery Gulch Inn & Spa is a luxury bed and breakfast known for its gourmet breakfasts and ocean views.
  
• Sweetwater Inn and Spa features private cottages overlooking the ocean, some with hot tubs.
  
• Joshua Grindle Inn is a historic Victorian inn with beautiful gardens and cozy rooms.
  
• Ocean View Lodge offers spacious rooms with stunning ocean views and luxurious historic vibe decorations.
  
• Howard Creek Ranch is a rustic and unique B&B located on 60 private acres with ocean and forest trails.

How to Get to the Redwood National Park?

There are many ways to get here, and the best option will depend on where you’re planning to stay and elope; however, here are some suggestions:

By Car:

One of the best ways to experience the Northern California Redwoods is by car. Scenic drives along Highway 101 or the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) offer breathtaking views and plenty of opportunities to stop and explore. These routes wind through picturesque coastal towns, stunning ocean vistas, and, of course, the majestic redwood forests. Whether you’re coming from the north or south, make the journey to the redwoods part of your elopement day adventure.

By Plane:

If you’re flying in, there are several airports to consider:

• San Francisco International Airport (SFO): About a 4-5 hour drive to the southern redwood parks. This major international airport offers a variety of flight options and car rentals.

• Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is also about a 4-5 hour drive. This airport is another good option with numerous flight choices and rental car services.

• Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV): The closest airport to the redwoods, located about an hour from many redwood parks. This small regional airport has limited flights but offers the quickest access to the redwoods.

Once you arrive, renting a car will give you the freedom to explore the redwoods at your own pace.

Fun Elopement Activities to Include in Your Redwood National Park Elopement

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.

So what do you do for those in-between moments that would make your day uniquely yours? It can be ANYTHING! Tradition, adventures, and just being together. Here are some ideas:

• First Dance
• Cake cutting/eating dessert
• Reading letters from friends and family
• Popping champagne
• Having a picnic—pick up premade picnic boxes from the cutest restaurant in Mendocino!
• Speeches
• Horseback Riding: Available in Prairie Creek Redwoods and other parks.
• Skunk Train: Scenic train rides through the redwoods, available in Fort Bragg.
• Catered dinner at your Airbnb
• Exchanging gifts
• Hiking numerous trails in all the mentioned parks.
• Star Gazing
• Kayaking and River Rafting on the Smith River or along the coast.
• Star photos (location and weather permitting)
• Campfire
• Break at a coffee shop, brewery, or restaurant, or grab the best shakes at the Snack Shack in Orick.
• Helicopter ride
• Boat ride

Best Hikes in the Redwoods

If you’d like to add a nice hike to your Northern California adventure elopement in the Redwoods, these are some of my favorites.

• Boy Scout Tree Trail (Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park): Moderate 5.5-mile hike through dense redwoods to a hidden waterfall.

• Fern Canyon Loop Trail (Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park): Easy 1.1-mile loop through a lush canyon covered in ferns.

• Stout Grove Trail (Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park): Easy 0.5-mile loop through some of the park’s most impressive trees.

• James Irvine Trail (Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park): A moderate 10.5-mile hike takes you through various forest ecosystems.

• Avenue of the Giants (Humboldt Redwoods State Park): Scenic drive with multiple short hikes, like the Founders Grove Nature Loop (0.5 miles). This is such a fun highway that runs along the main highway. You can easily hop on and hop off as you choose to explore the giant trees and groves.

Sample Redwood National Park Elopement Itineraries

Creating an unforgettable elopement experience is all about filling your day with activities you love and celebrating your love in stunning natural settings. Whether you want a private adventure or wish to balance time with some guests, here are some example itineraries to inspire your elopement day.

Mendocino

Morning: Start your day with a hike at Russian Gulch State Park. The waterfall trail is a moderate hike through dense forests to a beautiful waterfall, providing the perfect backdrop for stunning photos.

Midday: Exchange your vows under the historic bridge or among the towering trees. 

Afternoon: Explore the rugged cliffs and charming town of Mendocino. Enjoy a picnic lunch with breathtaking ocean views and take a stroll through the quaint streets, visiting local shops and cafes.

Evening: Meet back up with your guests for a romantic dinner at a local restaurant or have a catered meal at your cozy Airbnb. Enjoy a sunset walk along the beach to conclude your day.

Humboldt: Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

Morning: Begin your day with a ceremony at Schmidt Grove, surrounded by ancient redwoods. 

Midday: Hike the Fern Canyon Loop Trail, a stunning trail that takes you through a canyon covered in ferns. This easy hike offers plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to explore one of the park’s most magical spots.

Afternoon: Head to the cliffs for a sunset viewing. The dramatic coastal views provide a stunning backdrop for evening photos and a peaceful end to your day.

Evening: Gather with your guests for dinner at a local restaurant or a catered meal at your Airbnb.

Jedediah Smith Redwood State Park

Morning: Start your day with a beautiful ceremony at Templeman Grove.

Midday: Explore and hike the Avenue of the Giants. This scenic drive allows you to hop on and off, discovering various groves and taking in the awe-inspiring beauty of the ancient trees.

Afternoon: Drive up north for the most amazing sunset photos on an out-of-this-world beach. The journey takes you briefly into Oregon, which is so cool!

Evening: Reunite with your guests for a celebratory dinner. Whether at a local restaurant or a catered event at your lodging. 

What to Bring With You For Your Redwood National Park Elopement

• 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!
• Bug spray
• Extra battery pack for phones
• Marriage License

What to Avoid

• Uncomfortable Shoes: Redwood forests are not the place for fancy footwear. Opt for sturdy, comfortable shoes with good traction to navigate the forest floor and uneven terrain.
  
• Tulle Wedding Dresses: They pick up dirt quickly. Choose a dress that is easy to move in and won’t get too dirty.
  
• Follow the Leave No Trace principle: Pack it in, pack it out. Respect the natural beauty of the redwoods by leaving no trace behind.

Average Cost of a Redwood National Park Elopement

The cost of eloping in the Redwoods can vary widely depending on how you choose to go about your day. You can elope as cheaply as the cost of a marriage license and elopement location permit and a bottle of bubbly to celebrate. But if you’d like to add activities, bring guests, get nice elopement attire, travel, accommodations, get a photographer, and other vendors, the costs will be much more. 

On average, a full-day or multi-day elopement experience can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000+.

My Redwood Elopement Packages

Hi! I’m Christina, your Northern California and beyond adventure elopement photographer. Planning, traveling, and finding beautiful locations and experiences are my jam. Helping you create and document the celebration of a lifetime brings me the utmost joy! I want you to make the most 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 Redwood 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 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.