Mount Rainier National Park Elopement | Kaylie and Christian

There’s something incredibly powerful about choosing to slow down, gather your people, and say “I do” in a place that feels larger than life. For Kaylie and Christian, that place was Mount Rainier National Park, specifically the iconic Paradise area, where wildflower meadows stretch toward glaciers and waterfalls tumble through alpine valleys.

They flew up from California with their kids and close family for a midday ceremony surrounded by jaw-dropping views, fresh mountain air, and the kind of presence you only get when you strip away distractions and focus on what really matters.

A ceremony surrounded by family

Eloping doesn’t have to mean going alone. For Kaylie and Christian, it meant creating a meaningful experience that included the people they love most. They rented a cozy Airbnb tucked just outside Mount Rainier National Park, a perfect base for getting ready, relaxing with family, and setting the tone for a laid back intimate day.

The ceremony took place right there at the cabin, where the surrounding trees and mountain air created a peaceful, private setting. Their kids stood by their side, and the space was filled with emotion, tears, laughter, and quiet moments that made everything feel grounded and real. The best part? No stress, no timelines, just a beautiful environment where everyone could be fully present.

Exploring Paradise: Waterfalls, Wildlife and Sunset Views

If you’ve ever spent time in the Paradise region of Mount Rainier, you know it’s not just beautiful - it’s otherworldly. Kaylie and Christian spent the afternoon hiking through meadows bursting with color, crossing snowfields and streams, and taking in views that looked straight out of a dream.

We made our way to Myrtle Falls, one of Rainier’s most iconic waterfall spots, and took our time soaking it all in. Along the way, we spotted quite a bit of wildlife, from deer grazing nearby and even a bear foraging right off the trail, a reminder that this land is wild and alive.

As the sun dipped lower, we found the perfect overlook to wrap up the day. With soft golden light painting the valley below and Mount Rainier towering behind them, Kaylie and Christian stood in silence for a moment, just taking it all in. No rush. Just presence.

Why Elope at Mount Rainier?

Mount Rainier National Park is hands-down one of the most stunning elopement destinations in the Pacific Northwest. With alpine lakes, meadows, glaciers, and some of the best views in Washington, it offers endless opportunities for couples wanting to blend adventure and intimacy.

Here’s why it’s an incredible choice for your elopement:

• Accessibility with Adventure: Locations like Paradise are easy to get to and still feel remote.

• Family-Friendly Options: There are plenty of scenic spots just a short walk from parking, perfect for kids or older guests.

• Unreal Photo Backdrops: Every direction gives you something stunning. From snow capped peaks to golden meadows and rushing waterfalls.

• A Place to Truly Disconnect: With limited cell service and an abundance of nature, it’s the perfect place to disconnect and be fully present.

• Leave No Trace: This spot sees a lot of visitors, so respecting the land is key. Pack out what you pack in, don't pick the wild flowers, and stay on trail. It can be so tempting to quickly step in the meadow for a 'quick photo', but that small step can destroy fragile vegetation that could take years to recover, if ever.

Make the day yours.

Kaylie and Christian’s day was proof that elopements can be both intimate and family oriented. It was about celebrating their love, including their kids, and soaking in every bit of magic Mount Rainier had to offer.

If you're dreaming about eloping in Washington, whether it’s just the two of you or your whole crew, I’d be stoked to help you plan a day that feels like home in the wild.