Getting Married at the Crag Rat Hut | Zoe & Jacob’s Joyful Wedding
If you’re dreaming of a wedding venue that feels tucked into the woods and is still close to Hood River’s charm, you should consider Crag Rat Hut. Perched on a small hill with panoramic views, the place exudes cozy alpine vibes. It’s one of Oregon’s most under-the-radar gems for intimate, heart-centered celebrations. Zoë and Jacob’s Crag Rat Hut wedding in Hood River brought together tradition, emotion, and mountain magic in the most unforgettable way.
Why Choose the Crag Rat Hut for Your Wedding
The Crag Rat Hut is a rustic mountain lodge owned by the Crag Rats; the oldest mountain search and rescue organization in the United States. With indoor and outdoor gathering spaces, wraparound decks, and floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing the mountainscape, it’s a stunning setting for weddings that blend natural beauty with a down-to-earth vibe.
It’s ideal for:
- Elopements or weddings with under 100 guests
- DIY setups or custom vendor coordination
- Couples wanting access to Hood River lodging + nearby portrait locations like Rock Creek Beach
Zoë and Jacob’s Wedding at the Crag Rat Hut
Zoë and Jacob envisioned a day that was relaxed, spirited, and rooted in both family and tradition. They got ready together at the Crag Rat Hut itself. Zoë was downstairs. Jacob was upstairs. They were surrounded by loved ones, family heirlooms, and that kind of pre-ceremony joy that builds when you’re about to marry your best friend.
One of the most meaningful moments of the day was their blanketing ceremony, a tradition from Zoë’s Northern Cheyenne heritage. Her uncle and father led a smudging and song ritual before wrapping the couple in a wedding blanket, symbolizing protection, unity, and cultural roots. It was a powerful, emotional tribute that made their ceremony unforgettable.
A close friend read poetry and Zoë and Jacob shared vows under the open sky, with Mount Hood as their backdrop.
Reception Highlights: Game Parlors & Golden Hour
Cocktail hour flowed right into a laid-back dinner at the Hut, complete with a blessing by Jacob’s dad, Doug. Instead of a traditional dance floor, guests wandered between cozy game parlors and mountain views, keeping the vibe casual and connected.
For portraits, we snuck away to Rock Creek Beach, where the evening light lit up Zoë’s wild, custom gown and Jacob’s wind-blown suit. We captured everything from wind-in-the-dress moments to quiet sunset shots. The whole evening was editorial, candid, and perfectly them.
Planning Tips for Your Crag Rat Hut Wedding
If you’re considering the Crag Rat Hut for your wedding day, here are a few tips to help make your celebration seamless:
- Book early: This venue is beloved by locals and books up fast for summer and fall weekends.
- Leverage both indoor and outdoor spaces: The lodge is ideal for cozy receptions, while the lawn and deck give you unbeatable ceremony views.
- Think seasonal: June–October offers the best weather. Snow is common in winter and early spring.
- Vendors to consider:
- Planner: Silk & Salt Events
- Hair & Makeup: Kelli Thomsen Beauty
- Catering: Rip City Grill
- Florals: The bride created them herself!
- Dessert: Papa Haydn
- Custom Gown: Wai-Ching Studio
- Portrait options: Stay onsite or, if you’re feeling adventurous, head to Rock Creek Beach for dramatic golden hour portraits.
Final Thoughts
Zoë and Jacob’s wedding at Crag Rat Hut was the perfect reflection of who they are: joyful, grounded, a little goofy, and deeply connected to family and place. It was a reminder that the best weddings aren’t about trends; they’re about moments that feel like home.
Planning your own Crag Rat Hut wedding?
I’d love to help you capture every wild, heartfelt, and unfiltered moment. Reach out here to connect.
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