Early Summer Mount Rainier Elopement
Carly + Oscar
Carly + Oscar’s Last-Minute Elopement Adventure in the Mount Rainier Wilderness
Some stories aren’t planned months in advance—they’re lived with urgency, depth, and a whole lot of heart. That’s exactly how Carly and Oscar’s elopement unfolded.
Just three weeks before Oscar’s deployment, they reached out. Their dream? To get married somewhere stunning, surrounded by nature, with just a few people who mattered most by their side. Time was tight, but the intention was clear—they weren’t going to let logistics stand in the way of beginning this chapter together.
We immediately dove into planning. While their initial vision included Mount Rainier National Park, we quickly realized that the permitting timeline wouldn’t allow for it. So we pivoted. And that pivot led us to something unexpectedly perfect—a snow-free fire lookout tucked in the National Forest, just outside the park boundaries. With sweeping views of Rainier still in sight and no snow in sight (while the park was still blanketed), it truly felt like the best of both worlds.
Carly and Oscar were joined by two guests—a cousin and a friend—whose energy made the day even more vibrant. We hiked to the lookout together, where they shared a first look and heartfelt vows against a backdrop that felt like it had been made just for them.
After the ceremony, the group passed around a tiny wedding cake, toasts were made with vodka Red Bulls (because champagne isn’t really their thing), and laughter echoed through the trees. And yes—we even spotted a bear on the way in. A wild, magical omen if there ever was one.
As golden hour crept in, we made our way to the Skyline Trail inside the national park. The contrast was striking: lush greens traded for blankets of snow, leading us to breathtaking views of Myrtle Falls at sunset. Carly and Oscar hiked hand-in-hand, boots crunching in the snow, soaking up their last light as newlyweds before saying goodbye for the night.
It was one of those rare days that felt spontaneous and sacred all at once—proof that when love leads the way, everything else falls perfectly into place.
Thinking of Planning a Las Minute Elopement?
1. Stay flexible
Carly and Oscar originally hoped to get married inside Mount Rainier National Park, but permit timelines meant a change of plans. Choosing a nearby National Forest lookout gave them everything they wanted—views, privacy, and accessibility—without the red tape.
2. Your elopement can still feel intentional, even with a short timeline.
You don’t need a year to plan a meaningful day. Focus on what matters most: location, vows, and the people who truly support you. The rest will come together with the right guidance.
3. Choose celebration details that feel like you.
Forget what’s “expected.” Carly and Oscar toasted with vodka Red Bulls instead of champagne and shared cake with two close guests on a mountain. Make space for your own traditions.
4. Consider splitting locations for variety.
Their day flowed from forested fire lookout to snowy mountain trail—proof that combining spots can give you both adventure and intimacy in one timeline. Just be mindful of drive times, weather, and light!
READY TO START PLANNING YOUR ELOPEMENT? REACH OUT NOW!
Hey, I’m Sally! I’m a destination adventure elopement photographer based in Washington, but traveling worldwide!
