A seasonal guide to eloping in the Washington mountains

The North Cascades, also called the “American Alps”, is known for its rugged peaks and a stunningly beautiful place in the Pacific Northwest to elope. If you’re a couple who loves nature and mountains and wants to say “I do” surrounded by incredible, jaw-dropping landscapes, the North Cascades offers something for every season. A quick note: mid summer to early fall is the best season weather-wise, but let’s dig into when exactly you should elope in the North Cascades!

I’m Cherlyn, a Washington Elopement Photographer, who’s hiked hundreds of various trails in Washington, many of which are in the North Cascades. As a skier and hiker, I’ve experienced the full spectrum of seasons in the mountains and I’ll share with you when I think you should elope!

In this guide, we’ll explore what each season brings to your elopement adventure, from hiking up to glaciers in the summer to cozy winter ceremonies by a mountain cabin. No matter when you choose to elope, the North Cascades promise to provide a breathtaking backdrop to your wedding day.

Summer

Best for: Long summer days, lush greenery, and perfect weather

Summer in the North Cascades is a dream for eloping couples who want to bask in warm sunshine and explore the area’s incredible alpine beauty. The snow has melted in most areas, opening up the higher trails to hikers, backpackers, and couples looking for adventure. The weather is usually perfect for those who want to hike or camp as part of their wedding experience. In general summer season is mid July to mid September. Too early in July or June, many trails are still snow-covered. July is the best time for wildflowers and August is best for fewest bugs.

Activities for Your Summer Elopement

• Alpine Hikes: The opportunities for breathtaking mountain views are endless. Consider hiking to Yellow Aster Butte or Sahale Glacier Arm or Hidden Lake Lookout for those epic steep landscapes.
• Mountaineering Destinations: For the climbers, there’s a handful of straight-forward glaciers like Shuksan, Eldorado, Ruth Mountain, or Sahale Peak. I’m a mountaineer myself and I’d love to make your mountaineering elopement come to life! Disclaimer: I am not a guide, so you may have to hire a separate guide if you are not proficient on your own (I have some connections and recommendations too).
• Lakeside Ceremonies: The alpine lakes in this region, like Diablo Lake and Blue Lake, are known for their vibrant, turquoise waters, perfect for an intimate lakeside ceremony and couples who want to include guests.
• Backpacking Elopements: If you’re both the adventurous types, spend a few days backpacking in the wilderness before your big day. You can tie the knot at a remote mountain peak or on the shores of a secluded lake, such as Easy Pass or Harts Pass.
• Sunset Ceremonies: Summer days are long, giving you plenty of time to plan a sunset ceremony at some of the best viewpoints, like the overlooks along Highway 20 or by Artist Point

Tip: It’s peak season, so expect more visitors at popular spots. For a more private experience, choose less-traveled trails or consider a weekday elopement. As your elopement photographer, I will help you plan out your secluded elopement!

 

Ready to start planning your summer North Cascades elopement? Let’s get this party started!

 

Autumn

Best for: Vibrant fall foliage, quieter trails, and cozy vibes

Fall is one of the most magical seasons to elope in the North Cascades. The weather is still relatively mild, and the foliage transforms into a brilliant display of gold, orange, and red. If you’re looking for a quieter time to elope with fewer crowds but still want great weather, early fall is ideal. Autumn in Washington is a short few weeks. Specifically in the North Cascades, this lasts from mid September to mid October before the first major snowfall.

Activities for Your Fall Elopement

• Golden Larch Hikes: Larch trees, which turn a vibrant gold in the fall, are a signature feature of the North Cascades. Consider hiking to places like the Maple Pass Loop or Cutthroat Pass for incredible views of golden forests against towering peaks. I’m a self-proclaimed larch queen (check out my blog) and I love taking couples to explore trails next to these amazing gold trees!
• Red Autumn Hillsides: Take a stroll through the meadows for some intimate portrait shots in the fall foliage. We have blueberry bushes that turn red and light up the mountains in the fall. I love taking photos in the fall because the colors are so vibrant and the light is so soft!
• Cozy Cabin Vibe: For couples who prefer a more quiet celebration, fall is a great time to rent a cozy cabin in the mountains and exchange vows by a crackling fire, with the forest and peaks as your backdrop.

Tip: The weather can vary, so be prepared for cooler temperatures, especially at higher elevations. Keep an eye on the forecast to avoid any early-season snow.

Winter

Best for: Snowy, peaceful landscapes and winter sports enthusiasts

If you and your partner have always dreamed of a winter wonderland wedding, the North Cascades delivers especially by Mount Baker. With snow-dusted peaks and serene, untouched landscapes, winter elopements here are perfect for couples who want to escape the crowds and embrace the quiet beauty of the mountains in their most peaceful state. Winter season lasts from November to April and sometimes into June in higher elevations.

Activities for Your Winter Elopement

• Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing: Strap on some snowshoes or cross-country skis and explore the winter trails before exchanging vows in a secluded spot surrounded by snow-covered trees and mountains.
• Backcountry Skiing: If you’re into ski touring, like me, let’s get you hitched on a mountain with epic views and have your exit be your ski out to the car!
• Downhill Skiing: Mount Baker Ski Resort has the most snow out of any resort in North America and has incredible views of Mount Baker and Shuksan. Consider adding this to your elopement day or post-elopement celebration! I’m here to photograph it all!
• Mountain Cabins and Lodges: Rent a cozy cabin or stay at one of the mountain lodges for a romantic winter elopement. Many of these places have outdoor hot tubs, wood-burning stoves, and incredible views for a private, cozy celebration.
• Snow-Capped Peaks: For the adventurous couple, consider a helicopter ride for an aerial view of the mountains, or even a snowcat ride to remote, snowy peaks for your ceremony.

Tip: Winter can be unpredictable in the mountains, so plan carefully and check avalanche conditions before venturing into higher elevations. Don’t forget to bring warm clothes, including thermal layers.

Spring

Best for: Early blooming wildflowers, crisp mountain air, and smaller crowds

Spring is a shoulder-season in the North Cascades. There’s not a clear cut distinction between when winter turns to summer, but I like to describe spring as early summer in the North Cascades when the snow has melted enough to bring the first wildflowers like glacier lilies and Indian paintbrush. Expect to stay at lower elevations or bring snowshoes to hike through some light snow at higher altitudes. Spring is approximately May-June. Even into July some higher alpine trails will still hold snow!

Activities for Your Spring Elopement

• Hiking: Many of the lower elevation trails open up first, offering stunning views without the summer crowds. Lake Diablo and Sourdough Mountain are a fantastic choices for early-season hikes.
• Picnic with a View: Celebrate your vows surrounded by the misty beauty of the mountains with a low-key celebration—just you, your photographer, and a delicious picnic – Cascade Pass and Washington Pass are great locations
• Backcountry Skiing: Arguably, this is the best season to go backcountry skiing as the highway is opened, offering more locations to ski when avalanche danger is lower than in the winter.

Tip: Spring can still be chilly at higher elevations, so be sure to pack layers, and always check the trail conditions, as snow may linger in some areas.

Choosing the Right Season for Your Elopement

When deciding when to elope in the North Cascades, consider your priorities:

• Do you love the vibrant, adventurous energy of summer, or are you drawn to the quiet beauty of winter?
• Are you hoping to do more outdoor activities like hiking and backpacking, or are you dreaming of a more relaxed, intimate day surrounded by snowy peaks?
• Are you wanting to ski? Or do you prefer warmer weather?
• How important is avoiding crowds to you? (Spring and fall tend to be quieter than summer.)

Whatever season you choose, the North Cascades provide an unmatched setting for your wedding day, offering natural beauty, privacy, and adventure. Take the time to match your wedding vibe with the season, and your elopement will be a truly magical experience.

Ready to Plan Your North Cascades Elopement? The mountains are calling, and so is your dream elopement. Reach out and let’s start planning your perfect day!