TALIA + ANDREW’S STORMY FOREST ELOPEMENT AT MOUNT RAINIER NATIONAL PARK | MOUNT RAINIER NATIONAL PARK ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER | MOUNT RAINIER NATIONAL PARK, WASHINGTON

Most of the time the weather in Mount Rainier National park is consistent in the late summer. But since it is the only mountain of its height for miles, Mount Rainier often creates storms around the peak on otherwise sunny days. Which is exactly what happened on Talia and Andrew’s elopement day. But keep reading because this day was absolutely magical!

We started off their day driving up from Ashford, WA. (By the way Ashford is right outside the park and a great place to book lodging for your own elopement in Mount Rainier.) It was immediately obvious that the peak was obscured with clouds, but that couldn’t dampen our spirits! The forest became even more vibrant in the stormy light, wildflowers seeming to pop with fireworks of color, and the cool breeze danced through Talia’s gown just like a movie. It’s almost like the giant mountain knew it needed to take a backseat to let these two lovebirds shine. 

Near sunset, strong winds actually blew some of the clouds away from the base of the mountain. We couldn’t help but play a little right there in the parking lot! It was such a joyous day! 

Are you thinking of eloping in Washington/Mount Rainier National Park? Here are a couple tips. 

No matter what season you’re considering, be prepared for ever changing weather. Summers are often in the 60-80s (F) during the day in the park. As you might expect though, higher elevations tend to be cooler than lower elevations. However, it got down to the low 40s (F) during Talia and Andrew’s stormy forest elopement. Having layers available for not only surprise weather but just the different elevations will make your elopement more comfortable. 

And don’t forget, you’ll need a special use permit to hold your ceremony in the park. Check out the Mount Rainier permit website here for more information, and email the park for a list of designated elopement locations. The permit application fee as of this post date is $175. Depending on the location in the park, you may also have a location fee. You will need to apply for your permit at least 4 weeks in advance of your desired date. I suggest applying early to ensure you get your desired location sooner than later! 

If you have any questions, I’d love to help you plan your very own elopement at Mount Rainier National Park! Reach out here to tell me all about your dream day 🙂 Who knows, maybe the weather will allow you guys to have a stormy forest elopement also!

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