Oregon is known for its breathtaking landscapes, and it’s no wonder that so many couples choose to elope in the state’s stunning natural settings. From towering mountains to serene beaches, Oregon offers a variety of elopement locations that provide the perfect backdrop for an intimate and unforgettable elopement. Whether you dream of a quiet forest escape, a riverside ceremony, or a romantic garden setting, there is no shortage of magical places to say “I do.”
As an elopement photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing countless couples against the state’s most beautiful backdrops. Below, I’ve compiled a list of Oregon’s top scenic locations, along with tips to help you plan your special day. Let’s explore these stunning venues and get you one step closer to your dream elopement!
Portland Parks
Peninsula Park
In the heart of North Portland’s Piedmont neighborhood, Peninsula Park offers a sprawling rose garden, large fountain at its center, and serene pathways that provide a gorgeous, romantic backdrop for elopements. A gazebo is available in case it rains.
Tip: The roses are best enjoyed between June and October.
Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden is a tranquil oasis in Portland, featuring vibrant blooms, serene ponds, and charming footbridges. Its lush landscapes and picturesque scenery make it an enchanting elopement location for an intimate and romantic celebration.
Tip: Gates can close earlier than expected so check the park schedule before planning.
Mt Tabor Park
Mt. Tabor Park, a quintessential Portland gathering spot on the city’s Eastside, features panoramic views and towering trees. Idyllic forest trails wind their way atop its extinct volcanic cinder cone, offering a relaxing option for couples looking to elope in a natural environment close to the city.
Tip: Bring a blanket and a bottle of champagne to enjoy while park-lounging after your vows.
Forest Park
Forest Park is a sprawling 5,200-acre urban forest on Portland’s west side. Located within the forest, Lower Macleay Park has several highlights including the historic Witches Castle, scenic hiking trails, a peaceful stream bed with a small waterfall, and shaded lawns at the trailhead.
Tip: Good footwear is recommended for reaching the Witches Castle and exploring stream beds.
Hoyt Arboretum (Redwood Deck)
Nestled within Washington Park, Hoyt Arboretum offers a serene escape with its diverse collection of trees. The Redwood Deck provides a stunning backdrop with its towering redwoods, making it a magical spot for an intimate ceremony.
Tip: It is highly recommended that you acquire a permit through Portland Parks & Rec so that other parkgoers don’t wander through your ceremony.
Leach Botanical Garden
Located in southeast Portland, Leach Botanical Garden is a hidden gem with beautiful gardens, winding pathways, and a picturesque manor house. The lush greenery and seasonal blooms create a romantic setting for your elopement.
Tip: Spring and early summer are the best times for vibrant garden blooms.
Cathedral Park
Underneath the majestic St. Johns Bridge, Cathedral Park is known for its dramatic arches and waterfront views. This unique location offers a mix of urban and natural beauty, perfect for couples seeking a distinctive elopement site.
Tip: Sunset ceremonies provide stunning lighting and fewer crowds. A permit is highly recommended.
International Rose Test Garden
Located in Washington Park near the Portland Zoo, The International Rose Test Garden features more than 10,000 individual rose bushes blooming from June through October and provides a wonderful atmosphere for couples looking to elope.
Tip: A permit is highly recommended as this location as it can get particularly busy
Laurelhurst Park
Located in the heart of central SE Portland, Laurelhurst Park is one of Portland’s most iconic and scenic parks. Of particular visual interest is the brick staircase near the park’s north entrance, flanked by beautiful rhododendron bushes and towering evergreens making this an ideal intimate elopement location.
Tips: Fall is a particularly beautiful time for eloping at Laurelhurst Park.
Columbia River Gorge
Angel’s Rest
For 360-degree sweeping views of the Columbia River Gorge, few outlooks beat those found atop the rocky bluff of Angel’s Rest. A moderately strenuous 4.5-mile out-and-back hike, this elopement option requires some extra effort but it’s well worth it for adventurous couples.
Tip: Bring a headlamp for hiking back down the trail at dusk after sunset portraits.
Wahclella Falls
Wahclella, one of the gorge’s most impressive falls, is accessible via a relatively easy, mostly flat 2.4-mile out-and-back hike near Cascade Locks through a slot canyon. In addition to the falls, couples can scamper on boulders and tiptoe across a large log jam as part of their elopement adventure.
Tip: Waterfalls have their own microclimate so bring a warm layer, and wear footwear with good traction for walking on slippery rocks and logs.
Dog Mountain
Dog Mountain, located on the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge, requires a strenuous 7-mile, round-trip hike to its lookout but offers some of the best views in the gorge. The undulating river and rolling mountain tops seen from the summit are a majestic scene for elopements.
Tip: Plan for the spring to enjoy the wildflowers between the months of mid-April to mid-June.
Bridal Veil Falls
This waterfall is conveniently located via an easy mile-long hike in a small canyon. For your vows, perch atop a large boulder just in front of the voluminous falls roaring down a 100-foot rock face for the most dramatic views.
Tip: Be sure you’re comfortable scampering up a decent-sized boulder in your dress.
Punchbowl Falls
One of the most popular hikes in the gorge, Punchbowl Falls is an easy 3.8-mile hike with numerous smaller falls to enjoy along the way to the main attraction. Enjoy towering cliffs and a dramatic bowl-shaped pool filled with a thunderous waterfall surrounded by mossy greenery.
Tip: While the trail is easy, be sure you’re comfortable with heights as some segments are narrow with sheer drop-offs.
Horsethief Butte
Often frequented by sport climbers, Horsethief Butte is a fantastic elopement location. More remote than many locations, you’ll compete with a few people while enjoying the incredible views, which are remarkably easy to reach despite the craggy appearance of the butte. Located on the Washington side of the gorge, just across from The Dalles.
Tip: This location can get quite windy so plan your wardrobe and hairstyling appropriately.
Rowena Crest
With its breathtaking views of the Columbia River and winding roads, Rowena Crest is a popular spot for elopements. The high vantage point provides stunning photo opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Tip: Bring a blanket and picnic to enjoy the views after your ceremony.
Latourell Falls
One of the many beautiful waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge, Latourell Falls is known for its unique basalt column formations. The misty, lush surroundings offer a fairy-tale setting for your ceremony.
Tip: Wear stable footwear as some of the best spots are off the cement path on rocks that can be slippery and uneven.
Government Cove
A secluded peninsula on the Columbia River, Government Cove offers panoramic views of the surrounding gorge and river. The rocky landscape and sweeping vistas make it an ideal spot for adventurous couples.
Tip: Government Cove is on tribal land and is at times closed to the public. Inquiry is necessary to confirm whether eloping here is still possible.
Mt Hood
Timberline Lodge
Perched on the slopes of Mt. Hood Timberline Lodge is a historic and iconic venue. With stunning views of the mountain and access to various trails, it offers a mix of rustic charm and natural beauty.
Tip: Consider staying overnight at the lodge to be sure that you don’t get stuck in winter traffic the day-of on the way up to the mountain.
Bald Mountain Trail
Located near Government Camp off Lolo Pass, Bald Mountain Trail offers breathtaking unobstructed views of Mt. Hood towering majestically in the distance. This picturesque spot is accessible via a 2-mile hike, leading to a charming landing along a trail bend—a perfect setting to exchange your vows.
Tip: All wheel drive is recommended for the bumpy road to the trailhead. Bug spray is recommended for the hike through the forested section. NW Forest Pass is needed for parking.
Silcox Hut
The Silcox Hut, located up the mountain from Timberline Lodge at 6,950 feet, is fantastic for glorious up-close views of Mt Hood’s summit with the added bonus of having lodging the evening of your elopement. This option is perfect if you plan to have a handful of friends or family in attendance who will be staying overnight.
Tip: The Silcox is reached by SUV or snowcat via a bumpy private road at Timberline Lodge. Anticipating the extra transport time is a must.
Trillium Lake
This picturesque lake, with Mt. Hood, reflecting in its calm waters, is a favorite for elopements. The serene environment and breathtaking views make it a perfect choice for couples seeking tranquility.
Tip: Sunrise or sunset provides the best light for photos and a peaceful atmosphere.
Tamanawas Falls
A scenic hike leads to Tamanawas Falls, a stunning waterfall on the east side of Mt. Hood. The surrounding forest and the powerful cascade create a dramatic and romantic atmosphere for your elopement.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a moderate hike to reach the falls. Microspikes or Yaktraks are highly recommended in the winter.
Salem
Abiqua Falls
Tucked away in a lush canyon, Abiqua Falls is one of Oregon’s hidden treasures. The striking basalt columns and the powerful waterfall provide a breathtaking backdrop for an adventurous elopement.
Tip: The trail can be challenging, so bring sturdy footwear and plan to change at the falls so you don’t get your wedding attire dirty.
Silver Falls State Park
Known as the “crown jewel” of Oregon’s state parks, Silver Falls features ten stunning waterfalls. The park’s beautiful trails and scenic spots offer numerous options for a memorable ceremony.
Tip: Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds and explore multiple waterfall locations.
The Oregon Garden
The Oregon Garden offers 80 acres of sprawling botanical gardens with several ceremony location options for large and small groups. After saying your vows, enjoy a peaceful night’s stay at the resort.
Tip: Plan your ceremony for later in the evening to avoid the afternoon heat in the summertime.
Eugene
Hendrick’s Park
Eugene’s oldest city park extends 80 acres with numerous winding paths, towering evergreens, and native plants. A peaceful lawn at the center of the world-renowned Rhododendron garden is an idyllic location for a very small vow exchange and portraits to follow.
Tip: Peak rhododendron season is April and May so plan your elopement appropriately to enjoy the colors.
Spencer Butte
Spencer Butte has a prominent, bare rocky summit perfect for unobstructed views during your elopement of the expansive evergreen-laden hills south of Eugene. A moderately challenging 1.6-mile hike will get you to the summit.
Tip: You may not want to hike this in your dress, so bringing a large sheet to change behind at the summit might be preferred.
Mary’s Peak
As the highest peak in the Oregon Coast Range, Mary’s Peak offers panoramic views of the Willamette Valley and the Cascades. The wildflower meadows and forested trails make it a serene and beautiful elopement location.
Tip: Late spring and early summer are ideal for blooming wildflowers and clear skies.
Northern Oregon Coast
Cape Kiwanda
Pacific City’s Cape Kiwanda features dramatic sandstone cliffs, lending a surreal, otherworldly feel to your elopement experience. Hike up a large dune to access the coastal trails with expansive viewpoints up and down the coastline.
Tips: March through June are great months for whale watching from the cape.
Elk Flats Trail
A short drive from Manzanita, Elk Flats Trail is lightly trafficked and super accessible with only a quarter-mile, downhill walk to a small landing jutting out high above the Pacific Ocean. Awe-inspiring basalt cliffs sweep upwards on either side.
Tip: This location is best for couples comfortable with narrow landings and steep drop-offs.
Astoria Bridge
Located near the mouth of the Columbia River, the Astoria Bridge looms large overhead and is an impressive backdrop in the heart of a historic coastal town. The leisure walking path beneath bridge offers coastal charm and wonderful photo opportunities for your elopement.
Tip: While in Astoria, check out the famous house that was used in the cult classic movie, The Goonies.
Cannon Beach
Likely the most iconic location in Oregon, Cannon Beach is home to the towering Haystack Rock, an indelible natural monolith rising up along the tideline of the beach. Perfect for exploring tide pools and birdwatching, Cannon Beach has much to offer for couples eloping on the coast.
Tip: The beach can be crazy busy on the weekend, so consider eloping on a weekday.
Tunnel Beach
This secluded beach, accessed through a historic tunnel, offers dramatic coastal views and a sense of adventure. The rugged cliffs and sandy shores make it a unique and romantic spot.
Tip: Check tide schedules to ensure safe and easy access to the beach.
Ecola State Park
Just north of Cannon Beach, Ecola State Park offers amazing scenescapes without the crowds of the beaches closer to town. Enjoy coastline viewpoints atop rocky bluffs or venture down to the lowkey Indian Beach for sandy frolicking along the waterline.
Tip: The road to the park is known for occasional closures, so be sure to check the route leading up to your elopement.
Short Sands Beach
A popular surf spot, Short Sands Beach exudes a coziness tucked away in a forested cove with cliffs rising all around. To reach the beach, enjoy a relaxing, meditative walk a little less than a mile through an old-growth forest.
Tip: Being open to letting the hem of your dress get a little sandy and wet will allow for playful photos at the water’s edge.
Hug Point
With its picturesque waterfall, sea caves, and stunning coastal scenery, Hug Point is a favorite for coastal elopements. The combination of natural beauty and historical charm creates a magical setting.
Tip: Low tide provides the best access to the caves and waterfall.
God’s Thumb
A hidden gem on the northern coast, God’s Thumb offers sweeping ocean views and a dramatic cliffside location. The hike to the top rewards you with breathtaking scenery, perfect for an adventurous couple.
Tip: If it rains the day before the trail can get a little muddy, so plan to wear proper footwear for good footing.
Wreck Of The Peter Iredale
Lodge in the Clatsop Spit at Fort Stevens, the wreck of the Peter Iredale is a unique backdrop for an Oregon coast elopement. Enjoy a leisurely stroll on the beach at sunset during your portraits.
Tip: The wreckage is swamped by seawater at high tide, so if you want to stand close be sure to check the tide schedule.
Central Oregon
Black Butte Ranch
If you’re looking for the convenience of a resort for your elopement, Black Butte Ranch offers a peaceful backdrop along with luxurious lodging, golfing, biking, hiking, and horseback riding.
Tip: Consider an off-season date for a discounted stay at the resort.
White River Falls
A dramatic multi-tiered waterfall with a dilapidated, historical hydro-electric plant awaits at this gem in central Oregon’s Tygh Valley. The falls can be accessed via a downhill canyon trail just under a mile with multiple riverside options for your vow exchange.
Tip: Spring is the best time for its cooler desert temperatures and greater water volume at the falls.
Sparks Lake
The impressive views of South Sister from Sparks Lake are the perfect backdrop for any central Oregon elopement. This picturesque natural body of water is only 25 miles from Bend and can be easily accessed by car.
Tip: Bring a paddleboard or kayak for an activity to enjoy during your elopement.
Elk Lake Resort
Couples eloping at Elk Lake Resort can enjoy lodging at rustic cabins, fishing, boat rentals, snowmobiles, and cat rides with gorgeous views of Mt Bachelor and the Three Sisters.
Tip: Plan on a vow exchange closer to sunset for a glorious background glow in your photos.
Sahalie Falls
An easy mile hike from the trailhead, the 100-foot Sahalie Falls is a majestic waterfall ensconced in the greenery of the Willamette National Forest. Choose between the established tourist platform overlooking the falls or the more adventurous rocky landing below the falls for your ceremony.
Tip: Sahalie Falls can be quite busy on the weekends, so for more secluded vibes, weekdays are recommended.
Smith Rock
Famous for its towering rock formations and scenic river views, Smith Rock State Park is a haven for rock climbers and nature lovers. The dramatic landscape provides a stunning backdrop for your ceremony.
Tip: Sunrise or sunset offers the best light and fewer crowds.
Crater Lake
The natural wonder that is Crater Lake offer sweeping views of the deepest lake in the United States. You can’t go wrong eloping in front of the awe-inspiring deep, blue waters residing within the steep, sloping caldera walls of this sleeping volcano.
Tip: Apply early for your permit as the process can be a little slow.
Tumalo Falls
Located near Bend, Tumalo Falls is a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush forest. The easy access and scenic beauty make it a popular choice for elopements.
Tip: Arrive early to enjoy the falls in peace before the crowds arrive.
Southern Oregon Coast
Yachats
This charming coastal town offers a variety of scenic spots, from rocky ocean features such as Devil’s Churn and the cliff line at the Overleaf Spa and Resort to forested trails winding along the coastline. The blend of ocean views and small-town charm creates a romantic atmosphere.
Tip: Explore the town’s trails and beaches to find the perfect secluded spot.
Crook Point
Crook Point offers six unique, secluded oceanfront views for your elopement. Enjoy views of crashing waves from epic cliffs sides, and stay the night in luxurious lodging. Great for elopements that have a handful of guests that will be attending.
Tip: Crook Point has become a very popular elopement location, so book early to secure your date and preferred ceremony location on the property.
Natural Bridges
Located in the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, the Natural Bridges are a series of stunning rock formations over the ocean. The dramatic coastal views make it a breathtaking location for an elopement.
Tip: Visit during the golden hour for the most spectacular lighting.
Yaquina Head Lighthouse
The historic, still-in-operation lighthouse is perched atop a dramatic basalt headland jutting a mile out into the ocean. Eloping couples can enjoy a majestic backdrop to their vows down on Cobble beach with the lighthouse seen on the cliffside above them.
Tip: Plan on low tide so there’s plenty of space to stand on the beach with the lighthouse behind on the cliff.
Heceta Head Lighthouse
Perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Heceta Head Lighthouse is a historic and picturesque location. The lighthouse and surrounding coastal scenery provide a stunning backdrop for your elopement.
Tip: Consider booking a stay at the nearby bed and breakfast for a truly romantic experience.
Eastern Oregon
The Painted Hills
One of Oregon’s most unique landscapes, the Painted Hills are known for their vibrant colors and striking patterns. This otherworldly setting is perfect for couples looking for a truly unique elopement spot.
Tip: The colors are most vivid at sunset, so plan your ceremony accordingly.
The Wallowas
The Wallowas have numerous options for elopements, ranging from easily accessible views from Wallowa Lake to arduous hikes with alpine views at Ice Lake. Enjoy a romantic stay at a rustic cabin before saying your vows lakeside or before setting out on your backpacking elopement adventure.
Tips: If backpacking to a lake, consider hiring a pack animal to carry your gear so you arrive at your destination feeling fresher.
Alvord Desert
For couples seeking a truly unique and remote location, the Alvord Desert offers a vast expanse of white playa surrounded by rugged mountains. The stark beauty and solitude make it an unforgettable elopement spot, and the nearby hot spring is a must for nighttime stargazing.
Tip: Plan your visit during spring or fall to avoid the extreme summer heat.
Steens Mountain
Rising dramatically from the surrounding landscape, Steens Mountain offers breathtaking views and diverse ecosystems. The rugged beauty and panoramic vistas make it a perfect location for adventurous couples.
Tip: The road to the summit is usually open from late June to October, offering the best access and views.
Looking for an Elopement Photographer in Portland, Oregon?
No matter which stunning location you choose, an experienced elopement photographer in Portland can help you capture the magic of your special day. From the misty waterfalls of the Columbia River Gorge to the breathtaking cliffs of Cape Kiwanda, Oregon has endless opportunities to create unforgettable memories. Ready to start planning your elopement in Oregon? Contact today to schedule a consultation and let us help you capture the beauty of your elopement!