---

Dreaming of a elopement day that feels more like an adventure than a formal event? Whether you’re eloping in a state park or near the shores of Lake Erie, Ohio offers endless outdoor experiences that can make your elopement day unforgettable. From hiking to hot air balloons, here are 10 outdoor activity ideas to spark inspiration for your Ohio elopement!

Need a photographer who will not only take beautiful photos of your elopement but also help you plan it? Learn more about my Ohio elopement services here. 

---

1) Hiking

One of my favorite activities to recommend to adventuresome couples like you is to hike during your elopement day. Whether you want to hike to your ceremony spot or enjoy a post-vows adventure, this is a great way to explore and spend intentional time with your love.

Some of my favorite hikes are Old Man’s Cave in Hocking Hills and the Ledges Trail in Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

---

2) Camping

With elopements, you can really do anything you’d like. You’re not bound by tradition or expectations of what your day should be – it can be exactly what you want it to be, including your housing. So why not pack a tent or find a unique glamping opportunity for your elopement? Build a fire, roast some marshmallows, and cozy up!

Need help finding a cool spot? As an Ohio elopement photographer, this is something I help research and recommend to the eloping couples I work with!

---

3) Boating

Take advantage of Ohio’s lakes and rent a boat for your elopement day. Whether you want to explore Lake Erie or one of Ohio’s smaller lakes, this can make for a fun and relaxing outdoor elopement day activity.

---

4) Waterfall Chasing

Ohio has so many waterfalls to explore! And if you’re eloping in a location like Hocking Hills State Park, you can easily focus your day on chasing gorgeous waterfalls.

Some of my favorite waterfalls are Ash Cave in Hocking Hills and Brandywine in Cuyahoga Valley National Park! Of course, I also have several lesser known favorites that I only share with couples I work with. Learn more about my Ohio elopement services here!

---

5) Visit a Farm

Ohio’s farms have a lot to offer in the summer. Whether you’d like to view flowers, pick berries, or visit with animals, this can make a fun addition to your elopement day.

---

6) Kayaking or Tubing or Paddleboarding

Explore Ohio’s lakes or rivers with a relaxing paddle or float. This is especially fun in the summer as a break from the heat!

---

7) Horseback Riding

Are you a horseback riding enthusiast? If so, it would be pretty awesome to include a romantic horseback ride in your elopement day! You could explore local bridle trails or hang out in a paddock with your favorite horses.

---

8) Cycling 

Ohio has so many bike trails to explore. If cycling is your thing, this could be a really fun activity to do together on your elopement day. 

A major trail to consider is the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail.

---

9) Fly in a Hot Air Balloon

Not only does Ohio have a ton of hot air balloon festivals, but you could also rent a hot air balloon for your elopement day. Imagine saying your vows with the balloon in the background, or waiting until you are up in the sky… stunning!

---

10) Catch Sunrise or Sunset 

And my favorite outdoor elopement activity idea for a relaxing moment: plan to watch sunrise or sunset from a scenic overlook. Bring blankets, cozy up, and enjoy the peaceful beauty together.

Ready to start dreaming up your outdoor elopement day? I’d love to help you plan an intentional, adventure-filled experience that’s just right for you two. Contact me here to get started!