Deep into the Pacific Northwest, through long, winding roads that venture a little too close for comfort to steep cliffsides with no railing, Kelsey, Jacob and I eventually found ourselves in one of the most beautiful parts of Mount Rainier National Park: Skyline Trail to Panorama Point.

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I was immediately awestruck. I think it’s the closest you can get to feeling like you’re in another country while still being inside of the US. While Kelsey and Jacob technically had their wedding celebration in Snoqualmie, Washington the day prior, they wanted to carve out a second day for just the two of them, and as their Mount Rainier elopement photographer, I was ecstatic to help them plan it. I love when couples create a time to spend with just one another in addition to celebrating with their loved ones later on. It’s really the best of both worlds.

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We meandered along the paved path (a rarity in most national park elopements), stopping off in some scenic meadows set before the mountains, passing Glacier Vista where the Nisqually Glacier comes into full view. Kelsey and Jacob cozied up on some rocks together, and I hiked far back to capture a wide view the two of them set along the landscape. As the sun began to set, we hiked further up until we reached Panorama Point, one of the most breathtaking sights I’ve ever had the privilege of seeing. What sunlight remained was so golden and pink at this point that it looked like a painting. The mountains glowed purple and blue as the sun continued to fade, providing us just enough light to make it back down to our cars.

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If you’re looking for a Mount Rainier elopement photographer, I’d love to help you plan a celebration just as unique as Kelsey and Jacob’s. Reach out to us here to get started.