Overview
If you’re thinking about having a Washington elopement and visiting Mt. Rainier national park, the little town of Packwood is a great place to stay. From Packwood, it’s about an hour long drive to the Paradise visitor center, and about an hour and 10 minute drive to the Sunrise visitor center. (This is subject to change based on construction, road closures, the season, traffic, and weather conditions.)
There are so many cabins in the Packwood area available for rent that would make for a perfect Washington elopement getaway. Renting a space such as a cabin allows for a place to have hair and makeup done, get ready, and even have your ceremony at if you want to. The cabin pictured here is located along the river, which made for a stunning ceremony backdrop. The deck had space for a small catered dinner, and it was completely private! If you do choose to have your ceremony within Mt. Rainier national park, staying nearby takes a lot of stress out of driving to the location.
If you are renting a cabin, be sure to ask if the hosts allow small events and if there are any rules or regulations you need to know about. Mt. Rainier national park may also require special use permits to get married within the park. This is something I’d be happy to help you research before your elopement day.
Example Cabin Elopement Timeline
Key factors for this 8 hour Washington elopement timeline: Takes place in August (for warmer weather and less snow at the mountain) – Takes place on a weekday (to help avoid crowds), takes place on or near a new moon (so we can get epic star portraits)
– 2:30pm – Photographer arrives at the cabin for getting ready and detail photos
– 3:30pm – Private first look in front of the river at the cabin property
– 3:45pm – Private ceremony and vow exchange in front of the river at the cabin property
– 4:15pm – Signing of the marriage certificate followed by couples portraits
– 4:45pm – Riverfront picnic at the cabin property
– 5:15pm – Celebratory champagne pop and cake cutting in front of the cabin
– 5:30pm – Break and get ready to drive up to Paradise for adventure photos
– 6:00pm – In the car and ready to start driving up to Paradise
– 7:00pm – Arrive at Paradise to start hiking around the lower trails and take photos along the way
– 7:30pm – Sunset portraits at Myrtle Falls
– 8:00pm – Blue hour portraits with lanterns
– 8:30pm – Snack break and wait for the stars to come out
– 9:00pm – Star portraits
– 10:30pm – Photography coverage ends – Drive back down the mountain
Does this sound like your Washington elopement day?! I’d love to chat about it!
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