How to Elope in Oregon: The Ultimate Oregon Elopement Guide for Adventurous Couples
Updated February, 2026
If you’re dreaming about exchanging vows on a windswept cliff, beside an alpine lake at sunrise, or barefoot on the Oregon Coast with the waves crashing behind you… you’re in the right place.
After photographing and helping plan dozens of elopements across this state, I can confidently say this:
Oregon was made for eloping.
Not ballroom weddings.
Not rigid timelines.
Not 200-person guest lists.
But slow mornings. Wild landscapes. Intentional moments. And the kind of day that actually feels like you.
So if you’re wondering how to elope in Oregon — and everything you need to know to do it right — this guide walks you through every step.
Not just legally.
Not just logistically.
But meaningfully.
Because your elopement should be an experience, not just an appointment at a courthouse.
Why Elope in Oregon?
As an Oregon elopement photographer (and professional adventure-planner-at-heart), I might be biased… but this state truly has everything.
Within a few hours’ drive, you can have:
Dramatic coastal cliffs
Waterfalls tucked into mossy forests
Desert badlands and wide-open skies
Snowy mountain peaks
Alpine lakes
Wildflower meadows
Ancient forests that feel straight out of a fairytale
It’s like five states in one.
Which means your elopement can look exactly how you want it to — cozy, epic, romantic, rugged, or a mix of everything.
👉 Want location inspiration?
Check out some real Oregon elopements here:
Step 1: Decide What “Eloping” Means to You
Before permits or timelines or outfits — start here.
Because there’s no one “right” way to elope.
Some couples want:
Just the two of them at sunrise
Others want:
10–20 guests + a private dinner after
Others want:
A full day hiking, kayaking, or exploring together
Your day can be:
A 2-hour ceremony
A half-day adventure
Or a full sunrise-to-sunset experience
I always tell my couples:
Start with how you want the day to feel — not how it should look.
Do you want:
calm + quiet?
adventurous + sweaty?
slow + intentional?
celebratory + family-focused?
Once you know that, everything else falls into place.
Step 2: Pick Your Oregon Elopement Location
One of the biggest perks of eloping in Oregon?
You’re not limited to a venue.
You can literally get married in nature.
Here are a few favorite categories to consider:
🌊 Oregon Coast Elopements
Think cliffs, sea stacks, foggy mornings, and dramatic sunsets.
Perfect for:
Moody romance
Wind-in-your-hair magic
Easy access + epic views
Popular areas:
Cannon Beach 92 miles from Pdx Airport | Dog Friendly | Difficulty: Easy | Day Use | Fees: None
Cape Kiwanda 107 miles from Pdx Airport | Dog Friendly | Difficulty: Easy | Day Use | Fees: None
Samuel H. Boardman 328 miles from Pdx Airport | Not As Dog Friendly | Difficulty: Easy | Day Use | Fees: None
Hug Point (currently closed due to storm damage)
🌲 Waterfalls & Forest Elopements
Moss, ferns, waterfalls, and dreamy light.
Perfect for:
Intimate ceremonies
Cozy woodland vibes
Year-round beauty
Popular areas:
Columbia River Gorge 40-60 miles from Pdx Airport | Not Super Dog Friendly | Difficulty: Varies | Day Use | Fees: Parking
Silver Falls State Park 59 miles from Pdx Airport | Not Super Dog Friendly | Difficulty: Varies | Day Use | Fees: Parking
Mt. Hood forests 57 miles from Pdx Airport | Dog Friendly | Difficulty: Easy | Day and Overnight | Fees: NW Forest Service, Camping Fees
Crater Lake 243 miles from Pdx Airport | Dog Friendly | Difficulty: Easy-Hard | Day and Overnight | Fees: National Parks Pass
Want to picture yourself eloping in front of a waterfall? Click HERE to see Courtney and Pauls elopement!
🏔 Mountain & Alpine Elopements
Big views. Big feelings. Big “WOW” moments.
Perfect for:
Hiking couples
Sunrise or sunset adventures
That epic, cinematic look
Popular areas:
Mt. Hood 57 miles from Pdx Airport | Dog Friendly | Difficulty: Easy | Day and Overnight | Fees: NW Forest Service, Camping Fees
Smith Rock 138 miles from Pdx Airport | Dog Friendly | Difficulty: Moderate/Hard | Day or Overnight | Fees: State Park Day-Pass and permit for groups and structures
Central Oregon lakes 190 miles from Pdx Airport | Dog Friendly | Difficulty: Easy | Day or Overnight | Fees: None
Three Sisters Wilderness 168 miles from Pdx Airport | Dog Friendly | Difficulty: Easy-Hard | Day or Overnight | Fees: Central Wilderness Permit
One of my favorite locations is the Painted Hills, check out this amazing elopement HERE.
💍 Want real Oregon elopement inspiration?
If you’re picturing your day in one of these landscapes, check out how these couples brought their elopement visions to life — from mountain summit vows to desert sands and winter mountain magic!
➤ Read a Modern Broken Top Elopement in Bend, Oregon
➤ Explore a High Desert Styled Elopement at Crack in the Ground
➤ See a Winter Wonderland Elopement at Timberline Lodge
These stories will show you just how unique your Oregon elopement can be — whether you’re hiking alpine trails, chasing dunes, or embracing cozy mountain snow.
Step 3: Understand the Legal Side of Eloping in Oregon
Let’s keep this part simple — because it actually is.
Oregon marriage license basics:
Apply at any county clerk’s office
No blood test required
3-day waiting period (can sometimes be waived)
Valid for 60 days
Two witnesses required
That’s it.
If you’re traveling from out of state, just plan to arrive a few days early to grab your license. The Portland Airport is located in Multnomah County. You do not need to get married in the same county that you are eloping in, but you will need to appear in person to obtain your license and pay your fees. As for permits, depending on the location there could be a trailhead permit or limited entry permit that will need to be obtained. The good news is that I can help with this!
Step 4: Plan Your Timeline Around Light, Not Tradition
Here’s something most traditional wedding advice misses:
The best light doesn’t happen at 2pm.
If you want those soft, glowy, cinematic photos Oregon is known for, plan your ceremony around:
Sunrise
orSunset
Trust me — it’s worth it.
Plus, eloping gives you freedom to do things differently:
Instead of:
ceremony → reception → done
Try:
sunrise vows → brunch → explore → sunset portraits → campfire dinner
Your timeline can and should feel like the most incredible day together, not an event schedule. This is something I personally help every couple build so the day feels natural and unrushed and most importantly-you.
Build a stress-free elopement timeline you’ll love.
Crafting your day around light, adventure, and intention makes all the difference — and I’ve got a full breakdown to help you do just that.
Whether you’re eloping in the Gorge or adapting these tips for another Oregon location, this post will help you shape a timeline that feels natural and unforgettable.
Step 5: Hire Vendors Who Feel Like Teammates
When you’re eloping, your vendor team is small. Which means every person matters more. Especially your photographer.
Because for most of the day?
It’s just the three of us hiking, exploring, celebrating.
I don’t just show up with a camera — I help with:
location scouting
permits
timeline planning
backup weather plans
vendor recommendations
packing lists
and keeping the day stress-free
Basically… part photographer, part guide, part problem-solver.
👉 If you want someone who helps you plan the adventure too, not just document it, you can learn more here:
Step 6: Prepare for Oregon Weather (aka Embrace the Adventure)
Oregon is gorgeous… and unpredictable.
You might get:
sun
fog
wind
rain
or all four in one day
And honestly? That’s part of the magic.
Some of my favorite photos ever happened in wind or misty rain.
Bring:
layers
hiking shoes
clear umbrellas
flexible expectations
The couples who lean into the weather always have the best stories. With that being said-June through September will give you the best chance of having a rain free elopement over the entire state. October and November offer some of the best foliage around. January and February are the heaviest snow months. And mountain wildflowers usually make their debut towards the end of July.
Click HERE for all of those Oregon weather details, broken out by location area.
Step 7: Make It an Experience, Not Just a Ceremony
This is the part I care about most. Your elopement isn’t just 10 minutes of vows. It’s a whole day you get to design.
Ideas I’ve seen couples love:
private vow reading at sunrise
hiking to a lake
kayaking or canoeing
popping champagne on a cliff
picnic or charcuterie board
renting a cute Airbnb
stargazing
campfire + s’mores
The goal? Create a day you’ll remember forever — not just photos. The photos follow naturally.
Oregon Elopement FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
Do you legally need witnesses to elope in Oregon?
Yes. Oregon requires two witnesses to sign your marriage license. If you’re eloping privately, your photographer and another person (or even friendly hikers!) can sign.
How much does it cost to elope in Oregon?
It depends on your vision, but most couples invest in a photographer, permits, attire, and sometimes lodging or activities. Elopements are often far less expensive than traditional weddings while offering a more meaningful experience.
Do we need a permit to elope outdoors in Oregon?
Many state parks, waterfalls, and popular outdoor locations require special use permits. I help my couples figure out exactly what’s needed and handle the logistics.
What is the best time of year to elope in Oregon?
Summer and early fall offer the most accessible mountain locations, while spring is incredible for waterfalls and wildflowers. The coast is beautiful year-round.
Can you help us plan our Oregon elopement?
Absolutely. I help every couple with location scouting, timelines, vendor recommendations, and planning support — not just photography.
Meet Your Oregon Elopement Photographer (and Adventure Guide)
Hi, I’m Lindsay — the photographer behind Till Death Do We Adventure.
And truthfully? I’m a little more than just your photographer.
I’m part location scout, part timeline strategist, part professional problem-solver… and fully invested in making sure your elopement feels intentional, relaxed, and completely you.
I’ve spent years exploring Oregon’s coastlines, waterfalls, forests, and mountain trails with couples who care more about experience than tradition. The kind of couples who would rather hike to a viewpoint at sunrise or share private vows by an alpine lake than stand in a ballroom under fluorescent lights.
Helping you figure out how to elope in Oregon isn’t just about permits and pretty places — it’s about crafting a day that actually feels like your relationship.
So when you work with me, you’re not just getting photos.
You’re getting:
personalized location ideas
help building a stress-free timeline
vendor recommendations
backup weather plans
permit guidance
and someone who knows how to pivot when Oregon decides to do Oregon things
Basically? You get to show up, be present, and soak it all in — while I handle the details.
If that sounds like your kind of day, I’d love to help you create it.
Ready to design your perfect Oregon elopement?
You don’t need to figure this all out alone. I help couples with:
location scouting
permit guidance
adventure timeline creation
vendor recommendations
If you’re excited about how to elope in Oregon and want someone who cares about your vision as much as you do, let’s talk.