Oregon’s tallest peak, Mount Hood, or Wy’East, is the immutable symbol of my home state. You’re almost home when you see her out the plane window, and you know you’re in Portland when see her resting to the east, towering above the skyline. Wy’East’s beloved trails call travelers and locals to her all year round. Mount Hood elopements are perfect for those who feel drawn to mountains, lakes, old growth forests, and quiet spaces.
Jess and Alli enjoyed a short trail adventure and exchanged vows as the sun cast a pink glow on the mountain behind them.
Photographer: Voyage + Vine
Florals: Moonchild Floral Design
Custom Sneakers: Liz Miller Customs
Mount Hood Elopement: Starting with Adventure
With Jess and Alli, we opted for a relatively short hike, with an outfit change at the viewpoint. I love this hike so much because it blends parts of Mount Hood’s National Forest with one of the most jaw-dropping views of the mountain.
For the hike, the two wore comfortable, movement-friendly outfits that we knew we’d want to take photos of, as well. We packed in their elopement attire, which was easy to slip on in the privacy of the woods.
Choosing to Hike (or not) for your Mount Hood Elopement
For optimal views of Mount Hood, there are so many options – from locations right off the parking lot, to hikes ranging from 1 – 13 miles. Depending on your goals, we can tailor the perfect day with exactly the right of adventure.
What to Wear for a Mount Hood Elopement
For all of my outdoor elopements, I highly recommend clothing that moves well. Our surroundings will have winding trails, wind, textures, grasses, etc., and I love attire that can flow with – not against – your backdrop. Practically speaking, even if we aren’t hiking, we might be climbing on logs, walking on rocks, climbing up dunes, etc., and you’ll feel and look much more comfortable if you can move freely.
Make sure to bring layers you can add or shed as the temperature shifts, and boots or shoes that can handle a little dirt and adventure. Bring warmth when you need it – a wool shawl, a cropped jacket, or a soft sweater that feels like part of the landscape rather than an afterthought.
When it comes to color, think about blending with the mountain instead of standing out from it. Earthy tones like champagne, oat, sand, and moss green look timeless against snow and evergreens, while warm hues of rust, copper, or amber glow beautifully in evening light. If you love moodier shades, deep navy, wine, or charcoal pair perfectly with Mt. Hood’s mist and forest shadows. The best colors are the ones that feel like they belong, rather than clashing with our surroundings.
Planning a Mount Hood Elopement
Eloping on Mount Hood means stepping into something wilder and more intentional. The mountain gives you everything – alpine lakes, old-growth forests, quiet meadows, and sweeping overlooks that change with the light. Most locations are also relatively close to Portland – no more than 1.5 – 2 hours from the airport.
Start by choosing a spot that feels like you: Trillium Lake for mirrored reflections, Timberline’s ridgelines for wide-open views, or tucked-away forest trails for something more private.
Permits are simple but important – most trailheads and scenic areas fall under the Mount Hood National Forest, which sometimes requires a special use permit for ceremonies or professional photography. When we decide on our location, I can help you figure out whether or not a permit is needed, and how to get started.
Plan for mountain weather – it shifts fast. Bring layers, solid shoes, and a sense of adventure. Whether you’re hiking in before sunrise or exchanging vows in the evening glow, expect wind, clouds, and light that changes by the minute.
And finally, build your day around experience, not just photos. Pack a picnic by the lake, share coffee at sunrise, or read your vows under the trees.
