Tamela and Mike’s elopement at Sunrise Point Overlook in Mount Rainier National Park was nothing short of spectacular. Originally from Chicago, they had recently moved to Seattle and wanted their wedding to reflect the breathtaking beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Instead of hosting a large, traditional wedding, they chose to elope at Sunrise in one of the Pacific Northwest’s most stunning settings – Mount Rainier. I was honored to capture their intimate ceremony, surrounded by the natural splendor of the mountain as the sun set behind the horizon.
As the evening light bathed the landscape in warm hues, Tamela and Mike exchanged their vows with a few of their closest friends by their side. The quiet, golden hour brought a sense of serenity, and the moment was truly unforgettable. Their choice to elope at sunset allowed them to focus on the love they share, in an environment that made their ceremony feel all the more intimate and special.
If you’re considering eloping in the Pacific Northwest, especially at Mount Rainier’s Sunrise Point Overlook, here are five tips to ensure your day is just as magical.
Choose the Right Location
Mount Rainier National Park offers a variety of amazing locations for elopements: Paradise, Sunrise Point, and Tipsoo Lake are among the most popular spots. Paradise is known for its wildflower meadows and unobstructed views of Mount Rainier, which glow with warm golden light as the sun dips toward the horizon. Tipsoo Lake, on the eastern side of the park, offers stunning reflections of the mountain in its still waters, creating a peaceful and romantic setting.
Tamela and Mike chose to elope at Sunrise Point because the location offered expansive views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, which looked breathtaking in the evening light. The soft glow of sunset on the snow-capped mountain created an ethereal atmosphere that felt private and serene. Wherever you choose, make sure to visit the location in advance to get a feel for the timing of sunset and the best angles for photos.
Plan for Unpredictable Weather
Mount Rainier is famous for its unpredictable weather, and planning for all types of conditions is essential. At sunset, temperatures can drop quickly as the light fades. Bring layers, blankets for guests, and have a cozy wrap or jacket ready for the end of your ceremony.
For Tamela and Mike’s elopement, the evening started warm but cooled quickly after the sun went down. If you’re eloping in the fall or spring, you might also want to prepare for rain or unexpected clouds, and always have a backup plan in case the weather takes a turn.
Timing is Everything
When planning a sunset elopement, it’s crucial to time the ceremony perfectly. Golden hour, the period just before the sun sets, provides the best light for photography and creates a romantic, glowing atmosphere. The best part of a sunset elopement is the ever-changing light – from soft pinks and oranges to deep blues as the evening progresses.
For Tamela and Mike, we timed the ceremony to start about two hours before the sun dipped below the horizon. This allowed us to capture the golden glow on Mount Rainier and the dramatic colors of the sky as they changed. Keep in mind that different times of year will affect when sunset occurs, so double-check the sunset time on your chosen date and plan to arrive early to get settled.
Don’t Forget the Necessary Permits
As with any wedding or elopement in Mount Rainier National Park, you’ll need to apply for a special use permit. The process is straightforward, but it’s important to handle this ahead of time to avoid any last-minute stress. The permit helps ensure your ceremony is conducted with minimal impact on the environment, and it also gives you peace of mind knowing everything is in order for your big day.
Tamela and Mike applied for their permit well in advance online and found the process smooth and easy. Be sure to research the specific area you’re planning to elope in, as different parts of the park may have unique rules and regulations. The park’s website or a quick call to the park office will give you all the information you need to get started.
Crowds and Traffic
I highly encourage you to schedule your elopement during the weekday to avoid the crowds. Sunrise Point gets very busy, and traffic could back up all the way to the park entrance to get to the Parking lot. suggest getting there early in the morning for a sunrise ceremony or wait until late afternoon until the crowds have cycled out.
If you’re thinking about eloping in the Pacific Northwest, I hope these tips help you make the most of your special day. Whether you choose a sunset ceremony like Tamela and Mike’s or opt for the quiet serenity of a sunrise, Mount Rainier offers an unforgettable backdrop for the beginning of your new life together.
Elopement Vendor Team
Planning & Coordination // The Greatest Adventure
Flowers // Petals by Piper
Photographer // Tony Asgari Photography
