Washington State is known for its lush landscapes, towering mountains, and breathtaking wilderness, making it a dream destination for outdoor elopements. But with its stunning beauty comes an undeniable fact: the weather can be unpredictable, especially in the Pacific Northwest. While hiking to your elopement location in the mountains or along a forest trail might be a picture-perfect idea, there’s always a chance that rain might make an appearance. So, if you’re planning a hiking elopement in Washington, it’s important to be prepared for all weather scenarios—especially rain.

Hi I’m Cherlyn, a Washington Adventure Elopement Photographer who’s hiked over 200 different trails in all seasons. I’m no stranger to the rain and I’m here to prepare you on how to have the best elopement even if there’s a chance of rain on the horizon.

Let’s dig right into how to embrace the Washington rain and ensure your elopement is still magical!

Debunking Basic Weather in Washington

Myth 1: All of Washington is rainy

While Washington is associated as being the most rainy state, we have to consider the differences between the east and west side of the state. Due to our mountain ranges, the west side (including Seattle) is much rainier than the east side where the mountains have blocked off most of the moisture. The east side has a weather system closer to a high steppe/desert. It gets hotter in the summer and colder in the winter than the Seattle side.

Myth 2: Washington is rainy all months of the year

If we’re talking Western Washington, in general, the summer months from July to early September are guaranteed sunny days. Occasionally a short week in August will be rainy. The rest of year is often cloudy and foggy, which can be a beautiful backdrop in the forest. Some of these clouds are actually a marine layer, meaning it is a temperature inversion that causes a low cloud to form near a body of water, which includes both the Pacific Ocean and Puget Sound. The good thing is that many high view points are above the marine layer, so you can still get a gorgeous view of surrounding peaks.

Myth 3: Washington receives the most rain of all states

Washington may be known for a high number of rainy days, with Seattle ranking among the top 10 cities with the most rainy days. But volumetrically, Washington sits around number 30 for amount of rainfall. States like Louisiana or Florida and even New York receive much more rainfall than Washington. So if Washington has more rainy days but less rainfall amount, that means that all our rainy days have pretty light rainfall. And as a local, I can attest that to be true! Many of our so called “rainy” days are actually just misty or lightly drizzly.

And with these myths out of the way, I’m here to share some of my favorite tips to tackle Washington rain head on!

Tips on Eloping During Washington’s Rainy Season

1. Check the Forecast and Be Flexible

Always check the forecast before your outdoor elopement. While summer months are a 99% guarantee for perfect weather, there’s always a sliver of chance it might be overcast. If your elopement is in the off-season, you might find yourself checking the weather every day before your trip to Washington. But due to our unique mountain and water systems, weather is highly unpredictable until about 1-2 days before, especially in the off-season.

In the off chance the weather forecast turns more sour than anticipated (aka storms and heavy rain), having a backup option is key to making sure your elopement goes without a hitch! Your elopement photographer should be able to guide you through these changes and know the best places to go to avoid the rain. This might look like pivoting to a new location or hosting the majority of the elopement in a shelter or indoors.

2. Embrace the Rain

One of the most beautiful things about Washington is the misty, ethereal vibe the rain creates. A rainstorm can transform your elopement into an enchanting, memorable experience. Instead of seeing rain as a setback, consider it part of the magic. Here’s how to embrace it:

Dance under the canopy of the forest: Trees are a natural umbrella, blocking out some of the heavier rain so you can still slow dance in the moody woods

Wait for the lightest rain: Misty mountains, anyone? Let the rain bring out your unique elopement! Kiss under the umbrella or that classic rom-com kiss in the rain with wet hair and all

Get cozy: If you’re wet, you might as well stay wet! Get into the hot tub for some steamy post-elopement photos

3. Choose the Right Gear

If you decide to hiking with rain in the forecast, the key to being a happy hiker is a dry hiker! Here’s a few items you might consider to bring:

Waterproof rain jacket: Not just water resistant or water repellant. We want full-on waterproof! Goretex, if you can get your hands on one.

Rain pants: This is one no one will regret having! It’s not as necessary if the rain is light and you have a durable rain jacket. But with rain pants, your pants underneath will be dry as well.

Warm quick-dry layers: If it’s raining, it’s probably a bit chilly out. Pack an extra layer so you can adjust your temperature and balance warmth and cold.

Extra socks: Who doesn’t like warm socks? Waterproof socks exist too if you want to splurge.

Waterproof shoes: The worst thing about the rain is having wet feet. If you can keep them dry, you’ll be a happy clam!

Umbrella: Washingtonians might not carry an umbrella (that’s another story for later), but let me tell ya, hiking with one in heavy rain was a game changer for me!

Waterproof bags: Let’s keep all your items dry. You can double line it with a large trash bag so nothing gets wet, especially your marriage license and your formal clothes.

Good hiking shoes: Ones that are waterproof and have grippy soles will be your friends. Hiking boots made for the mud and rain will help you on the uneven terrain.

4. Other Comforts for a Wet Elopement

It’s your elopement, so let’s make it luxurious even with the rain. Whether we’re headed to the misty woods or the foggy meadows, we can make your elopement cozy too.

Keep the ceremony short and sweet: Limit your time in the rain and have a majority of the celebration under cover.

Extra towels and layers: Bring options to change out of and extra layers to wear on top of your wet clothes. And plan to change immediately after getting wet

Bring warm drinks: There’s nothing better than a cup of hot tea or cocoa or hot toddy to keep your hands and belly warm when the rain comes.

Bring snacks: Food can help you stay warm. Consider embracing your wild side and cooking a meal under a shelter like a Mountain House or Backpacker’s Pantry.

Final Thoughts

While rain might seem like an obstacle for your hiking elopement in Washington, it doesn’t have to be. With the right preparation, gear, and mindset, you can turn a rainy day into an unforgettable part of your story. From capturing stunning photos in the mist to staying cozy and connected under an umbrella, the rain can be just another reason why your Washington elopement will be as unique as your love story.

So, if you’re ready to embrace the weather, lace up your waterproof boots, grab your favorite umbrella, and get ready for an adventure you’ll cherish forever!

Oh so you like the moody rain? Well I do too! Let’s get started on planning your Washington elopement!