Best Easily Accessible Snowy Locations for WA Elopements

I took some time to pull a few of what I believe to be the best easily accessible snowy locations for WA elopements to help you plan. If you're dreaming of an intimate winter elopement, Washington state has some of the most beautiful snowy locations for an elopement. From picturesque meadows to cascading waterfalls, these locations offer a stunning setting for your special day.

Most of what you see here require very little effort, but all may require snowshoes or microspikes depending on conditions. It is also strongly advised that you bring plenty of layers (warm ones and waterproof ones), and don't forget gloves!

washington snow elopement photographer
washington snow elopement photographer

Hi, I'm Jacquelyn! I'm a Washington wedding photographer and AIARE 1 certified backcountry skier. I ski once a month year round (yes, there IS snow up there!) and always encourage people to adventure on their wedding day. Not only are the pictures epic, but the memories are even better. If you think you'd like to go on a guided snowshoe adventure or ski tour for your elopement or couple's session, shawty I can take you there, photograph you, and officiate!

LET'S ELOPE!

Easily accessible snowy elopement locations in Mount Baker

Easily accessible snowy elopement locations in Mount Baker
Heather Meadows Loop Trail

Located in the North Cascades at Mount Baker Ski Area, Heather Meadows offers a drive up destination with a mostly flat trail with views of Table Mountain. In winter, the meadows are blanketed in snow, making it the perfect location for a walk-up snowy elopement. Exchange your vows in front of the stunning mountain views, and then enjoy a reception in the nearby ski lodge. This 1.2-mile trail winds through a beautiful meadow, offering views of Mount Shuksan and other nearby peaks.

Heather Meadows is essentially stunning views just feet from your vehicle, making it a very desirable and foolproof location for a snowy elopement. You can spend as little or as much effort seeking out the perfect elopement location as you want.

Artist Point

4.0mi roundtrip, 1,000ft gain, ETA 2h, dog friendly

If you're looking to experience the beauty of Mount Baker in a more seemingly remote wilderness type of way, you can continue past Heather Meadows and snowshoe to the top of Artist Point. This popular destination offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including the massive Mount Shuksan and Mount Baker itself. On a sunny evening, Mount Shuksan glows a fiery orange once the sun sets.

In the summer time, the road to Artist Point is open and therefore also makes for an incredible summer time elopement destination. The road is closed in the winter time, making it the longest and most challenging elopement location in this article. However, the views surely will not disappoint!

No matter which Mount Baker trail you choose, be sure to dress in layers and bring plenty of water and snacks. The weather in the Mount Baker area can change quickly, so it's important to be prepared.

Where to celebrate after

Chair 9 is a pizzeria and bar located just across the street from a neighborhood of cozy, rentable vacation cabins.

Easily accessible snowy elopement locations in Snoqualmie Pass

winter snowshoe adventure elopement at gold creek pond
Franklin Falls

2.0mi, 400ft gain, ETA 50m, dog friendly

Franklin Falls is a stunning waterfall located in the Snoqualmie Pass. In the winter, the falls are frozen, creating a unique and beautiful setting for your elopement. Exchange your vows in front of the frozen falls, with the snow-covered trees providing a picturesque background.

Gold Creek Pond Loop

Length: 1.2-2.8 mi, 10ft gain, ETA 23-42m, dog friendly

A few miles past Franklin Falls, you'll find the Gold Creek Pond Loop. In the winter, the pond is frozen over, creating a stunning snowy setting for your elopement. You and your partner can exchange your vows in front of the frozen pond, with the snowy mountains providing an even more beautiful wintry backdrop.

The length of the Gold Creek Pond loop may vary depending on the time of year and whether or not the road leading to the trailhead is plowed.

You can see Cevon and Tom's Gold Creek Pond elopement here.

Where to celebrate after

After the ceremony, nuptials who elope at Franklin Falls or Gold Creek Pond can enjoy a hot bite and beverage at a cozy fire table on the Commonwealth patio or Dru Bru.

Easily accessible snowy elopement locations in Mount Rainier National Park

Easily accessible snowy elopement locations in Mount Rainier National Park
Myrtle Falls Viewpoint

Length: 0.8 mi, 185ft gain, ETA 23m, no dogs allowed

One of the best things about snowshoeing at Myrtle Falls Viewpoint is the accessibility of the trails. The 1.2-mile round trip trail to the falls is relatively easy, making it a great option for those new to snowshoeing. The trail winds through the forest, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the falls themselves.

Nisqually Vista Trail

1.1 mi rountrip, 200ft gain, ETA 30m, dog friendly

The trail winds through the forest, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the Nisqually Glacier.

We also love Nisqually Vista Trail because of its accessibility. The 1.8-mile round trip trail is relatively easy, making it a great option for those with little experience snowshoeing. The trail is also dog-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend along for your wedding!

For those okay with a more challenging trek to their elopement ceremony destination, the 2.6-mile round trip trail to the Nisqually Overlook is also a great option. This trail takes you through the forest and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the Nisqually Glacier. The trail is rated as moderate, so it's best for those with some experience snowshoeing.

Where to celebrate after

The Paradise Inn is considered one of the greatest lodges in the West, and also houses a dining room.

In conclusion..

No matter which trail you choose, be sure to dress in layers and bring plenty of water and snacks. It is also important to check the forecast before your special day. The weather in the winter time can change quickly, so it's important to be prepared.

Overall, snowshoeing or ski touring is a wonderful way to experience the beauty of winter in the Pacific Northwest on your wedding day. These stunning views, accessible trails, and abundance of snow make for some easily accessible snowy elopement locations in Washington State.

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