Olympic National Park Elopement Guide: Inspired by Gaby & Carter’s Dreamy Day

If you’re dreaming of a romantic, soul-stirring elopement surrounded by dramatic landscapes and lush greenery, Olympic National Park is calling your name. Nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, this park is perfect for couples who want to skip the stress of a traditional wedding and instead embrace a day filled with love, adventure, and the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Gaby and Carter ditched the ordinary and made magic happen with an ethereal elopement at Olympic National Park! Their day was everything an elopement should be: intimate, adventurous, and joy-filled from beginning to end. From handwritten vows in the moss-draped forest to a sunset champagne toast along beautiful Lake Crescent, they created a day that was entirely and uniquely theirs.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about eloping in Olympic National Park, and we’ll take a closer look at Gaby and Carter’s special day to inspire your own.

Why Choose Olympic National Park for Your Elopement?

Olympic National Park is a true gem of the Pacific Northwest, offering a wide variety of breathtaking landscapes, making it a dream destination for couples looking to elope. Where else can you exchange vows in an ancient rainforest, celebrate with a sunset toast on a Pacific beach, and dance beneath the stars surrounded by snow-capped mountains—all in one day? Every day, I’m in awe of how I not only get to call the PNW home but also get to make capturing fairytale love stories like Gaby and Carter’s my job!

Here are a few highlights of what makes this national park so unique:

Diverse Landscapes: Olympic National Park boasts a little bit of everything—lush old-growth rain forests, serene alpine meadows, driftwood-strewn beaches, and dramatic peaks. It’s like stepping into a painting.

Privacy and Intimacy: With over one million acres of protected wilderness, you’re almost guaranteed to find a quiet, secluded spot to exchange your vows. It’s very private and serene out here, even on the beach.

Adventure Meets Romance: Hike the remote mountain trails and northern foothills or stroll barefoot along Ruby Beach; the Olympic National Park has just about any outdoor adventure you can imagine.

Gaby & Carter’s Olympic National Park Elopement

What would an Olympic National Park elopement look like? Let’s dive into Gaby and Carter’s beautiful day to see how they made the most of everything this park has to offer.

Intimate Symbolic Ceremonies at Olympic National Park

Gaby and Carter started their day with a private first look outside their Crescent Lake lodge, followed by a symbolic ceremony in the lowland forest. The area surrounding the clear glacial-carved lake has streams, waterfalls, and endless trails, so you have lots of photo ops in one easily trekkable location. The vibrant greens of the moss-draped trees and ferns set the stage for their heart-tugging vows. Gaby’s stunning lace gown and cathedral veil popped against the rich organic colors, and she made such a beautiful bride.

Carter, dressed in an all-black suit and tie, matched her timeless style perfectly. Together, they looked like something out of a storybook as they exchanged rings and promises of forever under the canopy of ancient trees.

What made Gaby and Carter’s day so special was how personal and intentional it was. It was just the two of them, which allowed them to focus solely on each other. They read their handwritten vows with no one else around—just them, the towering trees, and the occasional birdsong (well, and me to document it all).

The forest ceremony was emotional and filled with laughter as they exchanged inside jokes that reminded them of all the little things that made their love unique.

Celebrating at Sunset on Crescent Lake

After their vows, Gaby and Carter swapped the forest for the park’s iconic Lake Crescent shore as the sun dipped low in the sky. They popped champagne and toasted to their marriage with a backdrop of crashing waves and glowing orange skies.

The beach provided the perfect setting for some playful, romantic photos. Gaby’s cathedral veil caught the breeze, and Carter kissed her with the kind of joy you can only feel when you’re married to your best friend.

Then, to sweeten the day, they shared a “Just Married” cake back at the lodge—a dainty but delicious little treat that felt like the perfect way to mark their new chapter together.

Time to Play, Dance, and Explore

One of the biggest perks of eloping? Time. Without a packed itinerary or dozens of guests to entertain, Gaby and Carter got to be fully present and truly enjoy their day.

They danced barefoot on the beach, explored the dramatic coastline, and ventured into the park’s lush trails for more photos (and some quiet moments). It was a day filled with laughter, stolen kisses, and plenty of time to simply marvel at the beauty surrounding them–just as they envisioned.

Later, they would send their beautiful customized elopement announcements and photos to their friends and family.

Tips for Planning Your Olympic National Park Elopement

Inspired by Gaby and Carter’s dreamy adventure in the Olympic National Forest and Lake Crescent? Here are a few tips for planning your own:

1. Choose the Right Season

Olympic National Park is stunning year-round, but the season you choose can significantly impact your experience. Summer and early fall typically offer the best weather, with clearer skies and milder temperatures. However, if you’re dreaming of a misty, moody vibe, late fall or winter might be perfect—just be prepared for rain and cold conditions. ONP turns into a white powdery wonderland in the winter.

2. Apply for Permits (if applicable)

A formal wedding ceremony in a national park requires a special use permit. Be sure to check the official park website and apply well in advance. This ensures you’re adhering to regulations and helps protect the delicate ecosystems of the park. A symbolic ceremony like this does not require a special permit, just the standard park entrance fees (which are inexpensive and valid for seven days). 

3. Scout Your Location (or enlist my help)

Olympic National Park is vast, offering everything from rugged coastlines to ancient rainforests and alpine meadows. Take time to explore potential spots, or consult a local photographer (ahem, hi there!) or planner to find a location that matches your vision. Lake Crescent, Hurricane Ridge, and the Hoh Rain Forest are breathtaking options. 

4. Pack for Adventure

Whether hiking to a secluded viewpoint or exchanging vows by the water, ensure you’re well-prepared. Wear sturdy shoes, bring layers to stay warm, and don’t forget essentials like snacks, water, and a first-aid kit. Bonus points if you include fun, personalized details like a portable champagne toast or cozy blankets for post-ceremony snuggles. 

5. Work with Local Vendors (if applicable)

 If you’re doing an official wedding ceremony at the park, local photographers, florists, and planners will not only know the area well but also understand the unique challenges of working in a place as remote and wild as Olympic National Park. Our expertise can help make your day seamless and stress-free so you can focus on soaking up every magical moment. 

6. Respect the Environment

Olympic National Park is a treasure of natural beauty, and it’s essential to leave no trace. Stick to designated trails, avoid disturbing wildlife, and pack out everything you bring in.

Dreaming of a Pacific Northwest Elopement? I’d love to help you scout and document your adventures in vivid, poignant detail. Let’s get in touch!