Adventure Elopement in Goat Rocks Wilderness: A Love Story
Unforgettable PCT Elopement in Goat Rocks Wilderness, WA
Some love stories are written in books. Others are written along wild trails — step after step, mile after mile.
Gretel and Barry’s story is one of the latter.
They met while hiking the Pacific Crest Trail as solo hikers in 2017. Both were trekking southbound and living in the rhythm of the mountains. Their first full day hiking together? It was the section around Old Snowy Mountain in Washington’s Goat Rocks Wilderness. This was the exact place they chose to return to for their intimate elopement years later.
When Gretel first reached out to me, she shared, “It…takes a certain type of photographer to understand the terrain of the PNW and the mileage of what this hike involves.”
As an adventure and elopement photographer, I knew this was a story I wanted to document — built on shared vows and adventures.
Why Goat Rocks Wilderness Is the Perfect Elopement Location
Goat Rocks Wilderness is the kind of place that stays with you. Nestled between Mount Rainier and Mount Adams, this rugged stretch of the Pacific Crest Trail delivers panoramic views, dramatic ridgelines, alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers, and that true feeling of being out there.
For Gretel and Barry, it wasn’t just beautiful — it was personal. Their chosen ceremony site was a saddle just off the Snowgrass Trail junction, surrounded by sweeping views of Rainier to one side and Adams to the other. The backup meadow location, about 5.6 miles in, offered the same epic scenery but with a softer, more sheltered landscape. Both options captured everything they loved about their early days together: wild beauty, solitude, and mountains that felt bigger than words.
And honestly? It’s hard to imagine a more breathtaking place to say “I do.”
The Plan for Their PCT Elopement
Gretel and Barry’s day was designed with intention and heart. After hiking in with two close friends — one to officiate, the other to witness — they planned to spend time at the meadow to cool down, rest, and get ready. (In true thru-hiker spirit, Gretel did her own hair and makeup trailside!)
Instead of formal portraits or traditional timelines, they wanted their elopement to feel organic and relaxed. The ceremony itself would take place either at the meadow or at the saddle, depending on weather and wind, followed by candid mountain portraits along the trail before hiking back out.
No fancy getting ready suites. No grand entrances. Just them, their friends, and the mountains that brought them together.
Hiking Elopements Like This Are for a Special Kind of Couple
This day wasn’t about checking boxes — it was about being present.
It takes a special kind of couple to elope on a 12+ mile hike with elevation gain, carrying their wedding clothes in backpacks, fully embracing the wildness of the trail.
But for Gretel and Barry, it wasn’t a challenge — it was a return home.
Because when you build your relationship step by step in the backcountry, a wedding day like this just makes sense.
Thinking About Your Own Adventure Elopement in Goat Rocks Wilderness?
Goat Rocks is truly one of Washington’s hidden gems. It is perfect for adventurous couples who want breathtaking views. They can enjoy these views without the huge crowds of more popular national parks. The trail options are flexible. The backdrops are jaw-dropping. There are endless opportunities for candid, emotional moments. It’s an incredible choice for an intimate elopement.
If you’re dreaming of a day that feels authentic to you, I’d love to help you plan and capture it. Whether that’s hiking boots, wildflower meadows, or epic sunset views, I’m here to assist.
Reach out here to start planning your own epic elopement!
Need more PNW elopement inspiration? Check out a few of my favorites!
