Eloping in the Core of the Enchantments

When Anna and Rohit decided to elope, they knew they wanted an experience that felt true to who they were. They envisioned an epic adventure in the mountains, somewhere meaningful, remote, and challenging. But they also knew they couldn’t imagine getting married without including their closest family members.

So, why not do both?

Their vision was to hike into the Core Enchantments in Washington State, exchange private vows surrounded by alpine lakes and mountain peaks, and then celebrate with their parents, siblings, nieces, and nephews during a separate ceremony.

It would be an adventure that pushed their physical limits while still leaving space for the sentimental moments that come with celebrating a marriage alongside family.

And what an adventure it turned out to be!

Planning an Elopement in the Core Enchantments

When Anna and Rohit first reached out to us, they already had a pretty clear idea of what they wanted. They knew they wanted to get married in the Core Enchantments, one of the most incredible alpine landscapes in Washington State.

Located near Leavenworth, the Enchantments are known for their rugged granite peaks, crystal-clear alpine lakes, mountain goats, and challenging hiking routes.

Anna had hiked through the Enchantments many years before and had always dreamed of bringing Rohit there someday. He had never experienced the area, and what better reason to finally go than their elopement?

The two were no strangers to mountain adventures. They had summited Mount Rainier the previous year and were prepared to take on another challenging experience together.

They weren’t simply searching for an elopement photographer who could take beautiful photos in the mountains. They needed someone physically capable of making the hike alongside them and experienced in planning the logistics of a remote backcountry elopement.

They also wanted help finding a way to include their family without asking everyone to take on such a demanding hike.

With a two-day photography package and some flexibility in their wedding dates, we started planning their Enchantments backpacking elopement.

Getting Permits for an Enchantments Backpacking Elopement

One of the biggest challenges of planning an elopement in the Enchantments is securing an overnight camping permit.

While you can hike through the Enchantments in a single day, the popular through-hike is roughly 18 miles long and requires significant planning, including a car shuttle.

For an elopement, that isn’t always the most ideal experience. Getting married adds additional time for changing into wedding attire, sharing vows, taking portraits, and simply enjoying the experience. Add the physical fatigue of such a demanding hike, and it becomes a very long day.

Anna and Rohit knew they wanted to backpack into the wilderness and spend the night in the mountains rather than try to fit everything into a single day.

Ideally, we wanted to camp directly in the Core Enchantments.

The four of us—Anna, Rohit, Bill, and myself—all set reminders to enter the overnight permit lottery. Thanks to the flexibility of their elopement package, we were able to apply for several potential dates.

Unfortunately, none of us secured a Core Enchantments camping permit.

We weren’t entirely surprised. The Core is one of the most difficult overnight permits to obtain in Washington State.

However, we did manage to secure a permit for Colchuck Lake!

Colchuck Lake is a beautiful destination on its own, and a location where we’ve photographed elopements before. While camping there meant we would still have to hike up Asgard Pass to reach the Core Enchantments, it also meant coming back down Asgard Pass.

With our camping permit secured, we finalized the backpacking timeline and planned their family celebration for the days following the hike.

Hiking to Colchuck Lake and Up Asgard Pass

The first part of our adventure began with hiking into Colchuck Lake, where we would set up camp before continuing into the Core Enchantments.

We deliberately arrived earlier than necessary so we could settle into camp, eat lunch, stretch, and rest before tackling the most challenging part of our route: Aasgard Pass.

If you’ve ever hiked Aasgard Pass, you know that it’s no joke.

The climb is incredibly steep, with sections of loose rock and scree that feel almost like hiking uphill through kitty litter. You take a step forward, only to feel yourself sliding backward.

It’s demanding, slow-going terrain, and not something to underestimate.

We made our way up at a steady pace, taking breaks to refill water, eat snacks, and make sure everyone was feeling good.

Eventually, after a challenging ascent, we reached the Core Enchantments.

And suddenly, all that effort was worth it.

A First Look Among Alpine Lakes and Mountain Goats

There’s something truly incredible about reaching the Core Enchantments.

Every direction offers another view of dramatic mountain peaks, beautiful alpine lakes, and expansive granite landscapes. It’s the kind of scenery that makes you want to stop every few minutes just to take everything in.

As we made our way into the Core, we stopped near one of the alpine lakes so Anna and Rohit could change into their wedding attire.

They shared their first look surrounded by the mountains before continuing their hike together, now dressed for their elopement.

Along the way, we encountered quite a few mountain goats.

Honestly, that’s one of my favorite parts of spending time in the Core Enchantments. There’s something so special about seeing these animals wandering through the alpine environment.

As we continued exploring, we realized that our hike had taken a little longer than originally planned.

That’s one of the realities of planning a backcountry elopement. Even with a thoughtful timeline, hiking conditions, energy levels, and unexpected moments can change your plans.

Rather than rush through the experience, we talked through our options and adjusted our route.

Ultimately, we decided to make our way toward Prusik Peak.

This would allow Anna and Rohit to experience more of the incredible scenery throughout the Core while finding a beautiful, more private place to exchange their vows.

Sunset Wedding Vows Near Prusik Peak

We reached our chosen location near Prusik Peak just as the sun was setting.

After everything it had taken to get there—the planning, the permit lottery, the demanding hike, and the hours spent exploring the mountains—it was finally time for Anna and Rohit to share their vows.

Just the two of them, surrounded by wilderness and some of the most incredible scenery in Washington.

And then something happened that made the moment even more memorable.

As they were exchanging their vows, a mountain goat approached us.

It was almost as if the goat had wandered over to congratulate them, becoming an unexpected witness to their wedding vows.

Of all the moments from this adventure, that is certainly one we’ll never forget.

Their private ceremony was exactly what they had imagined: intimate, adventurous, and centered on the experience of being together in the mountains.

Hiking the Enchantments Under the Stars

After their vows, it was time to make our way back toward camp.

We stopped along the route to prepare our backpacking dinners, rest our legs, and enjoy some food before continuing through the mountains.

By this point, the stars were coming out.

The Enchantments are one of the most incredible places in Washington to experience a star-filled sky. Being so high in elevation and surrounded by remote mountain landscapes makes the night sky feel especially spectacular.

We took some time to enjoy the stars before Anna and Rohit finally changed out of their wedding attire for the remainder of the hike.

Then came the part of our adventure that none of us had fully experienced before: descending Aasgard Pass.

Although Bill, Anna, and I had all hiked up the pass before, none of us had hiked down it.

And it was certainly an experience!

At one point, we watched two climbers who had just completed a climb of Dragontail Peak practically run down the pass while we carefully picked our way through the rocky terrain.

As the night continued, the physical and mental fatigue of the day began to catch up with everyone.

The boulder field between Aasgard Pass and Colchuck Lake was especially challenging. By then, our legs were tired, we were mentally exhausted, and we were all ready to be back at camp.

Eventually, we arrived at our campsite at 4 a.m.

We had started our hike at 8 a.m. the previous morning.

Twenty hours later, we were finally back at camp after one of the most demanding wedding adventures we’ve photographed.

It had pushed all of us physically and mentally, but it was also the kind of once-in-a-lifetime experience Anna and Rohit had dreamed about.

They had explored the mountains together, shared their vows in an incredible place, and created a wedding memory unlike anything else.

From a Backpacking Elopement to a Family Wedding in Leavenworth

The following morning, we packed up camp, enjoyed breakfast, and hiked back down from Colchuck Lake to our cars.

After such a long adventure, some rest and recovery were definitely in order!

The next part of their celebration would take place at a private cabin near Leavenworth.

During the planning process, I had recommended a beautiful cabin with river views, plenty of space for family, and a private setting that would work wonderfully for an intimate wedding.

We had photographed an elopement there before, so I knew it could be a great fit for what Anna and Rohit envisioned.

They booked the property and arranged for a catered dinner and a ceremony that would include their closest loved ones.

The day between their backpacking adventure and family wedding gave everyone an opportunity to settle in. Anna and Rohit also had time for a ceremony rehearsal and some much-needed recovery, including enjoying the sauna and resting their tired bodies.

It was a completely different pace from their mountain adventure, and exactly what they needed before the next celebration.

An Intimate Wedding Ceremony with Family

When their family wedding day arrived, the atmosphere was full of excitement.

Rohit spent the morning hanging out with his family and getting ready with the guys, while Anna got ready with the girls.

One of my favorite little moments was Anna proudly showing off the bruises she’d earned during their backpacking adventure while telling everyone about the experience.

Those bruises were certainly well earned!

Her mom helped her into her wedding dress, and once she was completely ready, Anna shared another first look with Rohit.

This time, she was wearing her full bridal look, complete with her veil.

She also shared a private first look with her father before he walked her down the aisle.

For their ceremony, Anna and Rohit were surrounded by their family, with mountain peaks (via the arch they made!) providing a beautiful backdrop.

They exchanged vows again, this time sharing some of those meaningful words with the people closest to them. Even though they had already shared their private vows in the Enchantments, this ceremony was equally important. It gave their family a chance to witness their commitment, celebrate alongside them, and be part of a day that meant so much to everyone.

A Private Chef Dinner and Meaningful Family Traditions

Following their ceremony, everyone gathered for a beautiful catered dinner by Mier Catering.

The evening was centered around good food, time together, and celebration.

Their dinner incorporated foods from their cultures, along with desserts and plenty of opportunities to slow down and enjoy the company of their favorite people.

One particularly special detail was the wine glasses they used.

Anna and Rohit drank from the very same glasses Anna’s parents had used at their own wedding decades earlier.

I love when couples find ways to incorporate family history into their wedding day, especially something so personal and sentimental.

The rest of the evening was full of happy tears, laughter, and quiet moments of connection.

After the intensity of their backpacking adventure, having an evening entirely dedicated to enjoying their loved ones was such a beautiful way to complete their wedding experience.

Kind words from the couple…..

“Months after our wedding, it still leaves us breathless to look back on our multi-day adventure wedding – an experience that made our dreams come true, thanks to the expertise, hard work, and passion of Traci and Bill from Adventure + Vow. They approach their work with an exceptional level of intentionality, showing how much they care about their couples, their craft, and the experiences that they create.

As avid mountaineers and backpackers, it was deeply important to us to weave our love for the outdoors into our wedding. We contacted Traci and Bill over a year in advance about a celebration that involved a permitted backpacking trip in the famous Washington Enchantments for our vows, followed by an intimate 15 person family ceremony in Leavenworth. We initially thought we were hiring photographers, but quickly realized they wear so many hats – acting as master wedding planners, day-of coordinators, trail guides, stylists, officiants, and photographers all in one.

The planning process was remarkably smooth. Their client software is user-friendly, their communication was timely, and their thoughtful questions allowed them to recall personal details that made us feel like friends before the first time we met in person. They emphasized our comfort at every turn, offered smart contingency options, and respected our decisions. We also ended up using their fantastic recommendations for our ceremony venue and a private chef who catered our post-ceremony dinner. Stress-free planning was our ultimate goal, and Traci and Bill delivered completely.

During the actual experience, spending 20 miles with 7000’ gain in about 30 hours with them on the trail felt natural. They are genuine, kind-hearted people whose own love and mutual respect for each other shone brightly throughout the journey, which felt especially beautiful as we began our own lifelong commitment. Their positive, resilient attitude is an invaluable asset in the backcountry. They carried heavy photography gear alongside ample snacks – helping us stay fueled throughout the trek – and expertly mapped out every mile based on optimal lighting and timing, adjusting the plan on the fly as needed. Even when we faced a delay in our planned timelines and had a long descent back to camp, they never complained or rushed us. We all rallied together after barely four hours of sleep to capture more moments in the morning and hike out. On top of being top-tier outdoor photographers, Traci and Bill are athletic beasts who gracefully handled a physically and mentally demanding trek into the Core Enchantments.

Beyond the trail, Traci and Bill dedicated time to scout our planned Leavenworth ceremony venue in advance and run a rehearsal with our family. Having Bill as our officiant was an absolute gift; they wrote an incredible script for the day that felt entirely tailored to who we are. They treated our loved ones with immense warmth, and the stunning sneak peeks they delivered within a single day allowed us to share the magic at our Seattle reception with friends and family two days after the wedding. Their photos managed to capture the true spirit of our celebration: the profound joy and deep intimacy of our backpacking adventure in the Enchantments, alongside the cozy, unconditional love of celebrating with our closest family in Leavenworth.

We are endlessly grateful to Traci and Bill for bringing our dream wedding to life. They far exceeded every expectation, morphing seamlessly into every role needed to make the day happen. We feel incredibly lucky that we were able to work with them for our wedding, and we highly recommend them without hesitation to anyone else considering them.” – Anna + Rohit

Your Elopement Can Include Both Adventure and Family

One of the things we loved most about Anna and Rohit’s Enchantments elopement was how intentionally they planned their experience.

They wanted a big, challenging, once-in-a-lifetime adventure together. They wanted to hike somewhere meaningful, exchange private vows in the mountains, and push themselves to accomplish something incredible.

But they also wanted to celebrate with their family.

And they didn’t have to choose between the two.

I think couples sometimes feel like an elopement has to be either a completely private experience or a wedding that includes their loved ones.

But your wedding doesn’t have to fit into one category.

You can spend a day hiking through the wilderness with just your partner and then celebrate with your family afterward. You can have private vows in the mountains and a second ceremony where your parents and siblings get to witness your marriage.

You don’t have to spend every moment of your wedding experience together as one big group.

Anna and Rohit’s wedding was a perfect example of how you can create space for both adventure and family without sacrificing either.

And those are the kinds of elopements we absolutely love photographing.

Planning Your Own Enchantments Elopement in Washington?

If you’re dreaming of an Enchantments hiking elopement, there are a few things to keep in mind.

The Core Enchantments require a significant amount of hiking, preparation, and physical fitness. Overnight camping permits are limited and competitive, and even with careful planning, your experience may need to change based on permit availability.

A backpacking elopement also requires thinking through logistics that don’t typically come up during a traditional wedding day, like carrying wedding attire, planning meals, managing hiking time, and finding a ceremony location.

But for couples who genuinely love the mountains and want their wedding to be an adventure, it can be an incredible experience.

And if you want to include family, you can absolutely plan a separate celebration in the Leavenworth area, just like Anna and Rohit.

As Washington elopement photographers, we’ve spent years exploring the mountains and helping couples create wedding experiences that reflect the things they love most.

Whether you’re imagining a challenging backpacking adventure, a private alpine lake ceremony, or a multi-day elopement that includes your family, we’d love to help you bring that vision to life.

Congratulations, Anna and Rohit!

We’re so incredibly honored that you trusted us to photograph such a meaningful adventure and share these memories with you.

Here’s to many more happy days on the trail together and a lifetime of adventures ahead!

Ready to start planning your own Washington hiking elopement? Reach out to Adventure and Vow to start dreaming up your adventure.