Where to Elope in Oregon: The Best Locations for Your Elopement
Oregon is one of the most beautiful locations for an elopement in the U.S. The state has so much geographic diversity, with the rugged coast to scenic, snow-capped mountains, peaceful waterfalls, beautiful lakes, and other-worldly desert rock formations. It can be hard to decide on where to elope in Oregon with so many stunning spots to choose from.
This guide will take you through some of my favorite locations along the Coast, Columbia River Gorge, and in Central Oregon.
Need help choosing the best spot? I’m an Oregon elopement photographer who helps couples find the perfect location for their elopement! Learn more about my Oregon elopement services here.
Oregon Coast: the Rugged, Jaw-Dropping Coastline You’ve Been Dreaming About
Why Elope on the Oregon Coast?
The scenery on the Oregon Coast is like something out of a movie. It truly gives the exact secluded nature vibes you want in an elopement day. You can view towering cliffs with crashing waves below, picturesque sea stacks with nesting birds, foggy old-growth forests with waterfalls tucked away, and moody beaches with waterfalls, caves, and tide pools.
And while the Oregon Coast certainly has its popular locations, this is one of those places in the world that still has plenty of less-explored beaches and trails where you can find more romantic and private ceremony locations, especially in shoulder seasons.
Where to Elope on the Oregon Coast
Cannon Beach:
If you’ve seen a picture of the Oregon Coast, odds are it included Cannon Beach and the famous Haystack Rock. And for good reason, this impressive beach is one of the top sights on the coast, and a favorite for elopements. Whether eloping on a moody foggy day or with the sun setting behind you, it’s a jaw-dropping backdrop. There are also plenty of other activities to do nearby, and the surrounding town of Cannon Beach can make a great base location for activities, accommodations, and food during your day.
Cape Kiwanda:
If you want to incorporate an epic sand dune and cool rock formations into your day, I highly recommend Cape Kiwanda. This location features truly dramatic views, and you can hike up the dunes. This is also a popular location for paragliding and surfing if you’d like to add in some fun activities to your day. It’s also surrounded by the town of Pacific City, so there are plenty of places to eat and stay nearby.
Just a heads up, there is a fee for the parking lot, it can be a little difficult to spot, but it’s towards Pelican Brewing. Don’t risk the $200+ fine.
Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor:
This area near Brookings features some of the most stunning scenery on the coast. There are sea stacks, natural arches, peaceful coves, and cliffside trails. It’s perfect for couples looking for an elopement with fewer crowds. You can explore some of the more popular scenic spots within the corridor, like Secret Beach or Natural Bridges, or go off the beaten path and find secluded beaches. The Scenic Corridor is a bit more remote than other coastal spots, but worth it if you’re wanting that untouched nature feel for your elopement day.
Eager to find even more stunning locations along the Oregon Coast? As an Oregon Elopement photographer, I’ve got so many more recommendations for beautiful ceremony spots for your day. Learn more about my Oregon elopement services here.
Tips for Eloping on the Oregon Coast
- Download Maps Ahead of Time: Cell service can get a little spotty on the coast once you get further away from the towns. I recommend downloading a map for the area (you can do this on Apple or Google maps) so you can navigate around even when there is no service.
- Plan Around the Tides: Tide charts are available online and show you the exact times of low and high tide. Some sights aren’t accessible or might become dangerous during high tide, so it’s best to learn about the locations you’ll be going and the best timing for each.
- Always Remember Beach (and Cliff!) Safety: Brush up on your knowledge of beach safety and prepare accordingly. You can check out this resource from the Oregon Coast Visitors Association for a good place to start.
- Check out my guide for advice on When to Elope on the Oregon Coast.
Columbia River Gorge: Waterfalls and Forest Vibes for a Fairytale-esque Elopement
Why Elope in the Columbia River Gorge
One word: waterfalls. Seriously, the Columbia River Gorge has a waterfall around every corner. If you’re wanting to say “I do” surrounded by the forest and a streaming waterfall in the background, this is the place. Bonuses? You could easily visit multiple waterfalls in a day, or add in a visit to one of the overlook areas for dramatic views of the gorge. This stunning location also happens to be only an hour from Portland.
Where to Elope in the Columbia River Gorge
Multnomah Falls:
This beautiful waterfall features two cascades with a scenic bridge between them. You have a few options for exploring either at the bottom viewing platform, on the bridge, or by continuing on the loop hike.
And friends, I must say… it’s beautiful, but it’s popular. If you roll up to this waterfall in the middle of the day in the summer, there will undoubtedly be crowds. Aim for super early in the morning for your best chance at privacy and parking being available.
Latourell Falls:
Outside of the popular Multnomah Falls, Latourell is probably one of the most easily accessed waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge. However, it’s not nearly as crowded, so would make for an ideal location for your elopement ceremony. There are two different viewing areas as well as a longer loop hike that you can take. The lower viewing area will get you up close and personal with the waterfall, but keep in mind that you might get misted!
Rowena Crest:
This sight is a bit farther off the beaten path – around a 30 minute drive from Multnomah Falls for reference. It’s also not a waterfall, but it’s totally worth the trip. Whether you’d like to watch the sunset here or save your vows for this stunning overlook, you really can’t go wrong. The overlook offers panoramic views of the Gorge and is more of a desert vibe than the waterfalls corridor.
Eager to find even more stunning locations in the Columbia River Gorge? As an Oregon Elopement photographer, I’ve got so many more recommendations for beautiful ceremony spots for your day. Learn more about my Oregon elopement services here.
Tips for Eloping in the Columbia River Gorge
- Best Time of Year: I’d recommend the Columbia River Gorge for elopements between late spring to early fall for the best weather and scenery. you can visit my guide here for the best seasons to elope in the Columbia River Gorge.
- Best Time of Day/Week: Because the Columbia River Gorge is so close to Portland, it can be more popular than some of the other areas of Oregon. I’d recommend this location either in shoulder season, for a weekday, or in the early morning/around sunset.
Central Oregon: Deserts, Mountains, and Lakes
Why Elope in Central Oregon
Okay, I’ve taken you through the lush scenery of the coast and Columbia River Gorge, now we’re heading to the desert! And Central Oregon, specifically the area near Bend, is just SO COOL. There are such a variety of landscapes packed into one location, it’s a little unreal. Seriously, within an hour to two hours drive, you’ve got the high desert with its shrubby plants and crazy rock formations, snow-capped mountains, dense forests and lush waterfalls, lakes with mountain views, lava fields, and the colorful painted hills. The real question here should be why would you NOT elope in Central Oregon?
Where to Elope in Central Oregon
Smith Rock State Park:
Smith Rock is one of those locations that just takes your breath away. Honestly, how dare this world be so beautiful?
As soon as you enter the park area, you start to see towering rock spires and the winding Crooked River below. Depending on the angle, you may even be able to see a snow-capped mountain framed by the spires.
There are several trails to choose from, so you can pick the adventure that’s right for you. I really love this location for sunrise, as you’ll start to get a bit of alpenglow on the rock spires!
Sparks Lake:
Sparks Lake is a beautiful alpine lake with stunning mountain views. It’s best accessed from July to October (if you go earlier, you risk not being able to make it past the snow on the road!), and makes for a beautiful sunset ceremony location – just be sure to pack some bug spray for a summer visit. This is also a great location if you’d like to add any water activities to your day such as kayaking.
Painted Hills:
Okay, I’m about to have another one of those “how dare nature be this beautiful???” moments, but hear me out. The painted hills, just a two hour drive from Bend, are STUNNING. One moment you’re just driving along and then the painted hills start to emerge out of nowhere. And there’s a whole range of them once you enter the park – everything from fun stripes to pure maroon red. This location will have you feeling like you’re exploring Mars and for sure would be an epic elopement spot.
Eager to find even more stunning locations in Central Oregon? As an Oregon Elopement photographer, I’ve got so many more recommendations for beautiful ceremony spots for your day. Learn more about my Oregon elopement services here.
Tips for Eloping in Central Oregon
- Download Maps Ahead of Time: Cell service can get a little spotty once you get on those remote back roads. I recommend downloading a map for the area (you can do this on Apple or Google maps) so you can navigate around even when there is no service.
- Best Time of Year: I’d recommend Central Oregon for elopements between summer and fall for the best weather and scenery. You can find my full guide on when to elope in Central Oregon here.
- Be Prepared for Wildfires: Unfortunately, hotter and drier weather summer through fall do bring increased risk. It’s important to have back up plans and to consider air quality for your health as you are planning.
- Best Time of Day/Week: Summer is the high season. I’d recommend this location either in shoulder season, for a weekday, or in the early morning/around sunset.
- Prepare for temperature swings: You’re in the desert for most of Central Oregon, so be prepared for high temperatures during the day and lower temperatures in the evenings.
Can’t Decide Where to Elope in Oregon? Combine Locations!
I totally get it if you’re having trouble choosing a location in Oregon – literally the entire state is gorgeous. But the best part about Oregon is that all three of these regions aren’t terribly far apart and there’s plenty to explore in between. You could always elope in Central Oregon and then honeymoon on the Coast. Or spend a day exploring and saying your vows on the coast, and then head to the Columbia River Gorge to explore waterfalls. The sky is the limit!
Want your full experience photographed? I offer options for multi-day elopement packages, so that you can truly make the most of your elopement and time exploring. You can learn more about my Oregon elopement services here.
Permits & Regulations
Make Sure to Inquire About Permits
Most national and state parks require permits for wedding ceremonies, elopements included. No fear though, permits are something I help my elopement couples with, and I’ll call ahead to make sure you know exactly what you need to do.
Make Sure to Leave No Trace
We always want to be sure to be respectful of our outdoor spaces to help preserve them for generations to come. As part of this, I seek to follow the Leave No Trace Principles for all outdoor elopements and hope you will try to do the same.
Some quick ways you can help leave no trace during your elopement in Oregon:
- Stay on established trails
- Pack any items or waste out (that also means avoiding things like rice and confetti)
- Do not carve anything in trees or on rocks
- Do not take any souvenirs such as a bottle of sand or a rock
- Be respectful of wildlife and admire only from an appropriate distance
- Be considerate of other visitors
Ready to Plan Your Oregon Elopement?
If you’ve been dreaming of an epic adventure elopement, let’s make it a reality! Whether you’d like to explore the coast, waterfalls, or the high desert, I’d love to help you plan an elopement that feels perfect for you.
As an Oregon elopement photographer, I’m here to help you every step of the way – from finding the perfect ceremony location to navigating to permits and capturing every beautiful moment. Reach out here to get started.
