How to Elope in Hocking hills
Ultimate Hocking Hills Elopement Guide (Updated for 2026)
you want to elope in Hocking Hills, but Don't know where to start...
you don't have to do this alone.
I know planning your elopement may have you feeling overwhelmed, but I've got your back.
The decision to elope was easy - you ditched the big wedding and now you know you want to have a day that's all about making you feel celebrated and doing things you love.
But now that you can go anywhere and do anything, you may feel overwhelmed and like you don't know where to even start with planning.
Well don't worry too much! I've put together this comprehensive guide on exactly how to elope in Hocking Hills, so that you can get started with confidence. Let's get into it!
Or skip all this and...
Table of Contents
- Popular locations
- Most Popular Locations
- Off-the-Beaten-Path Locations
- Winter Elopements in Hocking Hills
- Spring Elopements in Hocking Hills
- Summer Elopements in Hocking Hills
- Fall Elopements in Hocking Hills
- 5 Easy Steps to Planning
- Marriage License Information
- How Much Does it Cost to Elope in Hocking Hills?
- How to Include Family & Friends?
- How to Get Privacy on the Trails?
- Where to Stay for My Hocking Hills Elopement?
- How to Include Our Pet(s)?
- Location Permits
- How to Get a Loved One Ordained to Officiate?
- How to Prepare for the Weather?
- Off-the-Beaten-Path Locations
- Winter Elopements
- Spring Elopements
- Summer Elopements
- Fall Elopements
- 5 Easy Steps to Planning
- Marriage License Info
- Location Permits
- How much does it cost?
- How to include guests?
- How to include pets?
- Where to stay?
- How to get privacy?
- How to prep for bad weather?
- How to get someone ordained?
Who am I, and why am I making a guide about eloping in Hocking Hills?
Hey, I'm Desiree! I am a photographer who specializes in helping eloping couples plan and get beautiful photos of their elopement days. I'm based in Ohio and Hocking Hills is one of my favorite natural locations in the state.
I've also eloped myself, so I've been in your shoes as an eloping couple trying to figure it all out. I remember how excited I was, but also how stressful it felt. And I wished I had a guide telling me exactly what to prep for.
Which brings us to this Guide to How to Elope in Hocking Hills, I have a unique skill set that can help eloping couples just like you. I'm here to spill the secrets, and make planning more smooth and less stressful for you!
Ash Cave is a gorgeous recess cave with a seasonally flowing waterfall. The trail is very short and the path to the waterfall is paved and wheelchair accessible. This location is perfect if you want a quick spot that’s easy to get to.
Ash Cave
Main features: Waterfall, cave, accessible
With waterfalls, caves, overlooks, and forest trails, Hocking Hills has hidden gem locations just waiting to be found
Choosing an Elopement location in Hocking hills
Step 1. Find a location!
Old Man's Cave is a classic in Hocking Hills. There are several waterfalls on this trail, a cool A-frame bridge suspended above the trail, interesting stone arch bridges and a geometric crossing! This is a perfect spot if you are looking for a lot of variety.
Old Man's Cave is a classic in Hocking Hills. There are several waterfalls on this trail, a cool A-frame bridge suspended above the trail, interesting stone arch bridges and a geometric crossing! This is a perfect spot if you are looking for a lot of variety.
Old man's Cave
Old Man's Cave
Main features: Waterfalls, cave, a-frame bridge
Main features: Waterfalls, cave, a-frame bridge
Simply a stunner. After a short hike, you arrive at Rock House, which is a cave with gaps that let in the light along the side. There is also a seasonal waterfall that can be viewed from the cave. If you are okay with a bit more hiking, this is an epic spot for an elopement.
Rock House
Main features: Forest hiking & epic cave
If you'd like more privacy for your elopement ceremony, you'll probably want to consider something more off the beaten path. Check out this podcast where I talk about some of the less-known locations with stunning views that I recommend to couples I work with.
Off-the-beaten-path locations
It's often snowy in Hocking Hills during the winter months, especially in January and February. The waterfalls start to freeze over in the winter, and it's completely stunning! Another perk of winter is that this is the least busy time of year at the park and outdoors in general, so you're likely to have more privacy for your day even in popular locations!
Winter Elopements in Hocking Hills
Pros:
Of course, winter is going to be cold in Hocking Hills. If that's not something you want to entertain on your elopement day, definitely steer clear of this season! Some locations may also become inaccessible due to snow and ice accumulation or winter storms. Best to bring a 4WD vehicle.
Cons:
Best time of year to elope in Hocking Hills
Step 2. Pick a date!
It's important to time your elopement just right for the type of weather and scenery you'd like for your day
Spring in Hocking Hills is truly magical. Snow melt and more frequent rains mean the waterfalls flow consistently and at a high volume. It’s the season of finding a waterfall around every corner, and you’ll be all the more lucky if it’s raining because even more waterfalls emerge. All that to say, if you want to chase waterfalls on your elopement day, aim for spring!
Spring is also still shoulder season, so there are fewer crowds too!
Spring Elopements in Hocking Hills
Pros:
This is a rainier season so just make sure you have some back up plans (easy to do in a place with so many caves!) just in case!
Cons:
Summer brings warmer weather and vibrant green foliage to Hocking Hills.
Summer Elopements in Hocking hills
Pros:
This is actually my least favorite season in Hocking Hills for elopements, and that's because it's peak tourism season. Parking is hard to come by and people park up and down the roads. Trails are crowded, and things can get logistically difficult if you're wanting a peaceful and private elopement.
I'd recommend selecting another season or taking other measures to beat the crowds (early wake up, off-the-beaten-path locations, etc.). If you are looking for an alternative summer elopement location in Ohio, consider Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
Cons:
Outside of peak foliage season, I love Hocking Hills for a fall elopement. September especially offers fewer crowds and you’ll still have a lot of green on the trees. It’s also often still warm enough to enjoy being outside in the early fall - this is my favorite hiking season.
Fall Elopements in Hocking hills
Pros:
Peak foliage season is another busy time in Hocking Hills. You’ll want to proceed with some caution if you’d like to include more popular trails like Ash Cave in your day – aim for times outside of peak hours.
You'll also want to consider that if there hasn’t been a lot of rain, the waterfalls may be dry.
Cons:
Work with a photographer who can help you through the elopement process. As an elopement photographer, I'm here to not only provide beautiful photos of your elopement day, but also help you plan a day unique to you and your relationship. And most importantly... to help take the stress off!
1. Hire your Hocking Hills Elopement photographer
Hocking Hills is a beautiful park with so many epic locations, so I know it can be difficult to narrow down where to elope! Whether you want to get married in a cave or with a waterfall flowing behind you, I can help find your ideal location for your unique elopement vision.
2. Choose your location
It's time to finalize the details! Book your lodging, make reservations, and hire any additional vendors (like an officiant, florist, hair and make up artist, etc.). Need help with recommendations? This is something I help with as your photographer so you don't have to spend hours on Google!
3. Finalize your Plans
Get your marriage license sorted at the Ohio county you live in; if you are coming from out of state, make a plan to get your license in the county where your ceremony will take place (likely Hocking County)!
Depending on your elopement location, you may also need a permit from the appropriate park office or department. This is something I help the couples I work with know how to do!
4. Take care of the legal stuff
It's time to elope! Say your vows, have an amazing and stress-free day, and officially tie the knot in an epic location!
5. Elope!
How to elope in Hocking Hills
Step 3. Figure out the details
This process doesn't have to be hard. Here's how to elope in Hocking Hills in 5 simple steps!
Let's break down some of that stressful stuff
How to get your marriage license for hocking hills
If you're an Ohio resident...
You will need to get your marriage license in the county where your marriage is taking place (likely Hocking County). Be sure to check with the county where you are obtaining your marriage license on their specific requirements, costs, and expiration dates. Here is the website for Hocking County.
If you're not an ohio resident...
You can get the marriage license in the county where you live. Be sure to check with the county where you are obtaining your marriage license on their specific requirements, costs, and expiration dates.
Once you have your marriage license, you can officially elope (even as soon as the same day!). The license is good for 60 days.
How soon can we get married?
This part's easy! You just need to be married by an officiant licensed with the state. No witnesses are required.
Want to keep your ceremony as small as possible? I’m ordained and can act as your officiant as well as your photographer!
Officiant? Witnesses? What do we need?
this probably sounds scary, but bear with me here...
Hocking Hills Elopement Location Permits
What is a location permit?
This is going to be entirely dependent on the location and what you are planning for your day. In general, trails at Hocking Hills State Park will need a permit for you to perform a ceremony there. It does not cost any money, and it's a straightforward process to apply.
What locations need a permit?
Some locations require a special use permit before you can host a wedding (elopements included!) or take professional photos there. This is to ensure the entity in charge of the location is aware of the activity and that the activity falls in line with what's allowed there.
Your will need to call the main park office, let them know what you are planning, and reserve your date and time. Pro tip: don't ever trust ChatGPT (often incorrect!) or anyone other than the office in charge for this information!
How do I know if I need a permit?
Want to skip the research? Permits are something I help eloping couples with!
Full-Day elopement sample timeline
- 11:00 AM: Get a slow start, sip coffee, have some snacks, and write vows together cuddled up on the couch
- 11:30 AM: Get ready separately
- 12:30 PM: Meet for a first look outside your rental cabin
- 1:00 PM: Head to your first location, a waterfall
- 1:30 PM: Arrive at the trailhead and hike down to the waterfall
- 2:00 PM: Arrive at your ceremony location and get set up
- 2:10 PM: Say your vows, exchange rings, sign your marriage license, and soak up being married
- 2:50 PM: Portraits at your ceremony location
- 3:30 PM: Enjoy some cake together
- 4:00 PM: Head to your second location, a cave hike
- 4:10 PM: Arrive at the second location and start your hike
- 4:30 PM: Reach the cave and spend time soaking it up, exploring, and hanging out together
- 5:30 PM: Head back to your rental cabin
- 6:00 PM: Arrive at your rental cabin and have a picnic on the lawn. Read letters from your loved ones congratulating you.
- 7:00 PM: Cuddle up and roast s'mores by the fire
- 8:00 PM: Wrap up
I offer 9 hour Full-day elopements in Hocking Hills. Here's an example of what that could look like:
Example Hocking Hills elopements
Step 4: Get inspired!
elopements are a chance to be your unique selves on your wedding day. Let's see what's possible!
Half-Day elopement sample timeline
- 5:30 AM: Get an early start and hike to a beautiful overlook to watch sunrise together
- 6:00 AM: Soak in the location and share a morning coffee together
- 7:30 AM: Head to your second location, a cave with a waterfall
- 8:00 AM: Say your vows, exchange rings, sign your marriage license and soak up being married
- 8:40 AM: Portraits at your ceremony location & exploring
- 10:00 AM: Head back to rental cabin and cook brunch together
- 11:00 AM: Celebrate and eat together
- 11:30 AM: Wrap up
I offer 6 hour Half-day elopements in Hocking Hills. Here's an example of what that could look like:
Mini elopement sample timeline
- 8:00 AM: Meet at trailhead and finish getting ready together.
- 8:15 AM: Hike down to the ceremony location, stopping along the way for some scenic photos together.
- 8:40 AM: Reach ceremony location, say vows, exchange rings, and sign the marriage license
- 9:20 AM: Take scenic photos of you two
- 9:50 AM: Hike back to the trailhead
- 10:20 AM: Set up a celebratory picnic & enjoy
- 11:00 AM: Wrap up
I offer 3 hour mini elopements in Hocking Hills. Here's an example of what that could look like:
"From beginning to end, Desiree thought about all of the details. She had an amazing creative vision for us on our day. I think she captured our goofy personalities and special moments together perfectly. She found absolutely stunning places for photographs. Also, can we talk about the itinerary and the packing reminders list?! Absolutely loved our experience with Desiree and would love to shoot with her again!"
-Dayle & Quinn
"Desiree arranged practically everything so that we would be in intimate spaces that wouldn't have a lot of people even though we were in public. We had to keep track of the weather often (as you have to do if you're in Ohio) and Desiree was so flexible and accommodating when we had to move things around from the original plan. She always took our wants into consideration and was two steps ahead with her planning."
-Alex & Ted
"The BEST decision we made! Desiree was thoughtful and thorough when communicating with us to ensure our elopement was everything we wanted. She helped with a packing list, building an itinerary for the day, and suggesting activities and places to go. We took all her suggestions, and it was perfect. She is so easy to work with and took GORGEOUS pictures!"
-Danielle & Eli
"She didn’t just capture our day, she managed to make every photo feel like a memory. The candid laughs, the emotional vows, the quiet in-between moments we didn’t even realize were happening, she caught it all with such authenticity and artistry. Her eye for detail and ability to make us feel comfortable and ourselves in front of the camera made all the difference. The entire experience felt effortless and joyful."
-Elaine & Nate
Your elopement doesn't have to be Some cookie cutter, average day
I help couples plan unique and awesome elopement days that allow them to be themselves and do things they actually enjoy doing (not the boring traditional stuff we all think we have to do during a wedding day!). Let's craft your perfect day together!
Mid-Range Elopement Costs
- Photographer: $3,200
- Wedding dress & accessories: $1,500
- Wedding suit: $500
- Florals: $300
- Hair & Makeup: $250 at a salon
- Location Permit: $0
- Marriage License: $50 - $75 depending on county
- 3 nights at a nice rental cabin: $700
- Food & drinks: $200
Frequently Asked Questions
Step 5: Let's answer those last questions!
You may still have some questions about how to elope in Hocking Hills. Let's get those answered!
How much does it cost to elope in Hocking Hills?
High-end Elopement Costs
Elopement costs vary widely and depend on the kind of activities and experiences you'd like to have for your day. You can spend anywhere from a few thousand to ten thousand or more for luxury experiences. No matter your budget, you can find awesome activities and locations to suit it!
- Photographer: $5,000
- Wedding dress & accessories: $4,000
- Wedding suit: $1,000
- Florals: $600
- Hair & Makeup: $600 on site
- Location Permit: $0
- Marriage License: $50 - $75 depending on county
- 3 nights at a luxury rental cabin: $1,500
- Private chef dinner: $500
Total: $6,725
Total: $13,275
How to include your family & Friends in your Hocking Hills elopement?
Whether you want to elope just the two of you or bring some guests along, there are a ton of different ways to include your loved ones.
- Your ceremony
- Celebratory meal
- Yard games
- Bonfire
If they're coming with:
- Reading letters from your family & friends
- Calling your family & friends after your ceremony
- Having a post-elopement celebration
If it's just the two of you:
How to include Your pets in your elopement?
I love when you include your four-legged besties! Here's a guide on how to go about including them in your elopement day without any issues!
Because they're family too!
A nature retreat is the perfect spot for your elopement accommodations! Look for unique a-frame cabins, glamping tents, tree houses, and tiny homes. You'll want to make sure your accommodations are good as a potential rain location for your elopement day as well, so don't be afraid to splurge on something cute!
Where to stay for your Hocking Hills elopement?
Your hocking hills retreat
I help the couples I work with find epic accommodations for their elopement day. No more googling for hours and wondering if you're missing out on something awesome - let me know you're vibe, and I take it from there!
How I can help
How can we maximize privacy for our elopement day?
You're eloping, that means you don't want a crowd of random people looking on or asking to take pictures with you. I'm here to help.
Aim for weekdays
Find hidden gem locations
Work with your photographer
As much as I'd love to tell you it never happens... it happens. I'm sorry. If it's any consolation, rain on your wedding day is supposed to be good luck! And it rained almost my entire elopement day, so I speak from experience. We still had an amazing time, and the rain actually brought us fun unplanned experiences!
But, there are some things we can do to prepare in advance for adverse weather during an elopement day! From having weather-proof outer layers ready to go to having back up locations in mind, the guide linked below goes into detail on how to prep for the weather!
How to prepare for adverse weather?
Rain, snow, thunderstorms... oh my!
How to get a loved one ordained to officiate?
Having a friend or family member officiate for you? Don't leave one of the most important parts of your day to chance! Here's a guide to how to get a loved one ordained and registered with the state of Ohio to officiate your elopement.
There's a guide for that!
Start Planning Your Hocking Hills elopement
Step 6: Let's work together!
Work with a photographer who specializes in elopements & will help you plan your unique elopement day
As your elopement photographer and someone who's done it myself, I'm here to help guide you along the way so you can have a fun-filled, epic, and stress-free day all about celebrating your relationship.
I'll be your dream big cheerleader, off-the-beaten-path location finder, day-of sidekick, and adventure planner.
Your elopement photographer, PLanner, & adventure buddy
Hi, I'm Desiree!
