National Park Permits

Are you considering an outdoor elopement?

There are so many beautiful outdoor locations to elope in the PNW.

Let’s continue planning your elopement and go over three important National Park permits together.

Remember, you don’t need to go through the planning process alone.

If you need help, I’m here - just reach out!

permits you need to get married in a national park

There are three permits you need to get married in a National Park: a parking pass (entrance fee), special use permit (ceremony permit), and a photography permit.

You must secure each of these permits, if you are getting married in a National Park. Without any one of these permits you can be asked to leave.

Don’t worry, it’s easy to apply! If you are having a hard time finding the proper National Park permits just email me at elopewithalex@gmail.com or send me a text (253) 285-3050.

The fees for all three permits amount to approximately $300-$500 depending on your guest count. That’s a pretty cheap bill for an epic wedding venue 😊

Plus, by paying these permit fees you are supporting our underfunded National Parks. I can’t think of a better way to spend money on your wedding day.

1. national park pass

Think of a ‘park pass’ and your entrance fee to that trail.

Each trail will have a specific park pass required for that location.

You will need one park pass per vehicle. Passes can be purchased for the day or you can buy an annual pass.

There are three National Parks in Washington state: Mount Rainier National Park, Olympic National Park, and North Cascades National Park.

Each of them has different park passes unless you purchase an “America the Beautiful” pass which will allow you to enter all three National Parks.

2. ceremony permit

If you are getting married in a National Park you also need to apply for a ceremony permit. This is typically listed as a ‘special use’ permit on the National Park website. You must obtain this permit if you are eloping in a national park.

For instance, in Mt. Rainier National Park you need to apply for a wedding ceremony permits four weeks before the intended elopement date and there is a $60 fee. Yet another reason to start planning your elopement right away.

Always assume you must have a wedding ceremony permit unless you are told otherwise by an official. Unsure if you need to obtain a permit? Call the Ranger station that is listed for your trailhead.

3. photography permit

Photography permits are different than your ceremony permit. The price of photography permits can range from $100-250 depending on which National Park you are eloping in.

This is not a permit you want to skip.

Can you imagine being in the middle of a photoshoot and having your photographer get kicked out of the park? Don’t let that happen - get the proper permit.

I cover the cost of my photography permits, however, not all photographers cover the cost of their permits. Have an open line of communication with your photographer and make sure one of you obtains this permit.