Table of Contents
Why Elope at an Alpine Lake?
Leavenworth Alpine Lakes
North Cascades Alpine Lakes
Mt. Baker Alpine Lakes
Mt. Rainier Alpine Lakes
Olympic National Park Alpine Lakes
Washington Elopement Photographer
Why Elope at an Alpine Lake?
Choosing to have your elopement at an alpine lake is truly an unforgettable experience. Not only do you get the sweeping views of the mountains and the joy of the hiking adventure, but you also get an extra reward at the top. If you and your love are fans of the water, saying your vows in front of an alpine lake doesn’t get any more special. Especially if you conclude your elopement with a jump in the lake, paddleboarding, or even a drink on inflatable innertubes!
Many of the lakes listed below require quite a hike to get to, making them more private and remote than many other elopement locations. The ones that are drivable are often more populated, but are equally as beautiful. Really, if you’re wanting a full day of adventuring and relaxing, including an alpine lake in your elopement day is a no-brainer!
As a native to Leavenworth, Washington, and an avid adventurer, I have personally been to most of these lakes. I hope my insight and expertise is helpful in choosing your dream elopement location!
Leavenworth Alpine Lakes
Lake Valhalla
A true gem, tucked away up Stevens Pass, Lake Valhalla is the perfect day trip. An easy trail to follow, littered with wildflowers, huckleberries, and fall colors depending on the season, this trail is one of my favorites! As a bonus, you can extend the hike and summit Mt. McCausland for an epic mountain view and sunset if you don’t mind hiking out in the dark, or want to camp at the lake overnight.
Length: 7 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 1,500ft
Colchuck Lake
The most famous hike in the Leavenworth area, Colchuck truly is a sight to behold. Located at the entrance to the Enchantment Range, Colchuck is not a hike for the faint of heart. But man, is it worth the effort. Due to it being such a popular hike, I would recommend planning your elopement here for the early morning, or evening, on a weekday. This will help you find parking, avoid crowds, have a more intimate experience, and get the best lighting for photos!
Length: 8 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 2,280ft
Minotaur Lake
For those willing to take on this steep challenge of a hike, Minotaur is a fairly short venture, but the elevation is a doozy. Once you reach Minotaur itself, there is an option to continue on a short distance to the summit of Labyrinth Mountain. One of the best sunsets I’ve ever seen was at the top, with 360 views of the surrounding mountain ranges. If you don’t want to add on the summit, you can hang out at the lakeshore, swim (if you want to brave the cold), or look over the cliff’s edge down at Theseus Lake, another stunning view.
Length: 3.5 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 1,905ft
Lake Ingalls
Located in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, Lake Ingalls showcases the back of Mt. Stuart as it’s impressive backdrop. The trail itself spans several types of terrain, including forest, scree, rocky meadows, and yellow larches in the fall. Boasting views of Mt. Rainier, the Esmeralda Peaks, and Mt. Stuart itself, this trail is not to be missed. If you’re looking for an overnight elopement adventure, there are several campsites in the valley before the lake. You may even encounter some mountain goats as you head for a swim! My first time backpacking here, I woke up to baby mountain goats staring at me through my tent!
Length: 9 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 2,500ft
North Cascades Alpine Lakes
Diablo Lake
One of the most well known lakes in Washington, Diablo Lake can be enjoyed in multiple different ways. For those who would rather not hike there is a beautiful lookout just a 5 minute walk from the parking lot that overlooks the lake. Stunning spot for an easily accessible location, although be warned, it is often windy! Several campgrounds also provide access to the lakeshore and can bee accessed for day use only. Great option if you’d like to actually get your feet wet! For those wanting a bit more of an adventure, the Diablo Lake Trail contains magnificent views of the peaks, waterfalls, and the vibrant lake itself. There is an option to take the ferry back to the parking lot for those who would prefer to only hike one way.
Length: 7.6 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 1,400ft
Rainy Lake
If you’re looking to get an incredible alpine lake view with minimal effort, this is a perfect option for you! The trail to the lake is an entirely paved path, so if you’re looking to have guests at your elopement who require wheelchair accessibility, or aren’t up for a full hike, Rainy Lake meets those requirements. Surrounded by the North Cascade peaks, the view truly is serene. Paddleboarding is also permitted if that’s something you’re looking to add to your adventure!
Length: 2 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 70ft
Blue Lake
Another North Cascades gem, Blue Lake is a shorter trek, but the lake is a must-see. The granite slab behind the lake makes for an impressive view and the larches here in the fall are some of the best I’ve seen. If you’re wanting to elope in the North Cascades, but don’t want to spend the whole day hiking, or at one location, Blue Lake’s central location makes this is an easy hike to add into just about any timeline.
Length: 4.4 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 1,050ft
Mt. Baker Alpine Lakes
Bagley Lakes
Covered in wildflowers and containing two alpine lakes, this area of Mt Baker is perfect for couples wanting a shorter adventure. The lakes are an easy walk from the parking lot, with much of the trail paved, and a beautifully photogenic stone arched bridge you can walk across. If you’re looking for a gorgeous lake that is easily accessible, but still has incredible views and lots of charm, this is your spot. There is also a designated paved ceremony site that looks down at the lakes if you’re having guests who’d like to join and require more space than a narrow trail.
Length: 2 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 150ft
Chain Lakes
Chain Lakes is a loop trail that takes hikers to multiple alpine lakes, including Mazama Lake, Iceberg Lake, Hayes Lake, and other small tarns. These lakes are all gorgeous and many are swimmable, with nice beach access where a ceremony could take place. The hike also contains sweeping views of Mt. Baker and Mt. Shuksan, making it an exciting trek for those wanting more of an adventure.
Length: 6.5 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 1,820ft
Twin Lakes
Known more famously for being at the base of Winchester Mountain, Twin Lakes are two sparkling lakes right off the side of a trailhead parking lot. If you have a high clearance vehicle that can make it up the extremely rough forest service road, you can drive the whole way, otherwise, many people park lower down on the road and hike the rest of the way. Twin Lakes would be a great ceremony site followed by a trek up to Winchester Fire Lookout if you want to extend the day’s adventure.
Length: 0 miles with high clearance vehicle, or 5 miles roundtrip
Mt. Rainier Alpine Lakes
Tipsoo Lake
One of Mt. Rainier’s most popular stops, Tipsoo Lake is an absolute beauty, particularly in the summer months when the surrounding meadows are carpeted in wildflowers. Located right by the parking lot, the walk around the lake is quite short, but you can extend the hike by continuing on the Naches Peak Trail. It is important to note that the lake does not permit swimming, per national park regulations. However, it does make for a gorgeous ceremony site.
Bench & Snow Lakes
A less popular hike in the park, and one that is definitely underrated, Bench and Snow Lakes is located in the Paradise area of Mt. Rainier. A short hike, the trail is often full of wildflowers, lush grass, and does also provide options for overnight camping.
Length: 2.5 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 610ft
Olympic National Park Alpine Lakes
Lake of the Angels
This lake is named Lake of the Angels for a reason. Located in the Olympic Peninsula’s Valley of Heaven, the area is named for is heavenly views. The breathtaking lake does require quite the climb, though. Past hikers have called it “a hell of a hike for a heavenly destination.” If you’re wanting more of a challenge and don’t mind sweating a bit on your elopement day, this lake is a beautiful option!
Length: 7 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 3,400ft
Lake Angeles
Covering 20 acres, Lake Angeles is one of the largest lakes in the Olympics. Because of that the glacial backdrop of this lake is incredibly grand. Quite the place to go for a swim! Located in the Hurricane Ridge area, this would be a great hike to start of the day, finishing with a sunset drive up into the mountains.
Length: 7.4 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 2,350ft
Washington Elopement Photographer
Have I convinced you that you should include an alpine like in your Washington elopement? If so, and you’re ready to begin planning, I’d love to help! Click HERE to view my elopement pricing, or inquire HERE to see if I’m available. As a Washington State Elopement Photographer, I love helping couples bring their dream days and adventures to life! Anything you need help with – finding vendors, lodging, trails, etc – I’m your gal 🙂 Can’t wait to meet you!
