Mountain Adventure Elopement at Mt. Baker, Washington
Rachelle + Shaun’s elopement day in Mt. Baker was the epitome of why I love elopement days. These two were absolutely obsessed with each other, and combining that love with some adventure, views and spontaneity just makes for the best time! Their day was filled with all the things they love most including mountain biking, exploring in their camper van, hiking, and celebrating with their dog Ace by their side. This Mt. Baker adventure elopement was truly one for the books!
Mountain Biking Elopement
We started the morning in the forest with something special - photos of Rachelle + Shaun with their mountain bikes! Riding together is one of their favorite activities, so it was only fitting to weave it into their elopement story. Surrounded by towering evergreens, these photos perfectly captured their adventurous spirits and the activities that bring them joy as a couple.
Campervan in Mt. Baker
Next, we documented another huge part of their love story - their camper van! Rachelle + Shaun have built out their van themselves and were embarking on a month-long road trip to Alaska set to begin the very next day after their elopement! Including their van in the photos was a fun nod to their adventurous lifestyle and the journey that lay ahead. Their sweet dog Ace joined in for photos too!
Mountain Views at Artist Point
From there, we made our way up to Artist Point, one of the most iconic spots in Mt. Baker. With sweeping mountain views and rugged landscapes, it’s no wonder this was the place that made them fall in love with Mt. Baker in the first place. We explored the ridge lines, soaked in the scenery, and captured some incredible portraits with the mountain views up there!
Hiking Elopement at Mt. Baker
As the day went on, it was time for even more adventure. We hopped into a rented jeep and drove up a gnarly mountain road to reach the trailhead for their sunset hike. The trail led us into alpine meadows and eventually up to a summit that I knew was holding the most extraordinary views. But when we reached the top, the mountains had completely disappeared behind a blanket of clouds. That’s always fun!! But I told them to not loose hope, and sometimes sunset will break things up! We waited and waited, hoping for a break in the weather, before deciding to go ahead with vows anyway. What happened next was pure magic.
Mountain Elopement Views
As soon, and I mean AS SOON, as Shaun began reading his vows, the clouds started to part, revealing stunning mountain peaks bathed in golden light. IT was one of the most wild things I’ve ever seen at an elopement. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect. Like all the mountains needed was a little bit of love profession from Shaun! The mountains opened up around us, vibrant sunset colors emerged and we ran around like crazy people creating the most unforgettable portraits to end the day.
Planning Tips for a Mt. Baker Elopement
Mt. Baker is one of my favorite places in the world for elopements! If it’s sounding like a place that you might want to consider for your elopement, here are some tips!
Best Time of Year: The ideal months for eloping at Mt. Baker are late summer through early fall, when the trails are accessible and the views are clear. Summer brings lush wildflowers, while early fall offers stunning autumn colors. August is usually prime time!
Permits: While elopements at public areas may not require a formal wedding permit, certain locations like Artist Point may require a parking pass or a Northwest Forest Pass. Check the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest website for the most up-to-date information!
Trail Suggestions: Artist Point is perfect for short, scenic photo sessions, while nearby alpine trails can provide more private ceremony locations and adventure. Mt. Baker has a little bit of everything from mountain views, lush forests, rushing rivers, and even a few waterfalls!
If you’re interested in eloping in the Mt. Baker, check out my Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Mt. Baker for everything you need!
Have a Mountain Adventure Elopement at Mt. Baker!
Rachelle + Shaun’s day was a reminder of what makes elopements so special. The unpredictability, the intimacy, and the moments that feel like they were made just for you. Rachelle + Shaun’s Mt. Baker elopement was a true adventure from start to finish, filled with love, laughter, and the kind of views we’ll never forget!!
If an adventure elopement in the mountains near Mt. Baker sounds like a fun time to you, reach out via the button below and let’s get the conversation started about what your day can look like!