Dog Friendly Mount Baker Elopement

Mt. Baker Snoqualmie National Forest is one heck of a place for an elopement not only because of the epic views, easy accessibility but especially because it is DOG FRIENDLY! National Parks do not allow dogs, however, the Mt. Baker area bordering North Cascades National Park does allow dogs on it trails, so no forsaking Fido here.

About an hour and half east from the town of Bellingham, WA if you take the Mt. Baker Scenic Highway, you can find yourself looking at some insane views of the glaciated volcano, and the best news? You don’t have to hike all that far, making it one of my favorite spots for elopements. Artist Point and Heather Meadows are two great spots with large parking areas and numerous trails of different length and difficulty. Washington has a great resource and app for local trails called Washington Trails Association

Keep in mind, accessibility here is limited often through the seasons due to snow - we came around mid September and had perfect weather and open roads, so if you’re considering a session or elopement in the Mt. Baker area, aim for August or September. On this day we started with clear blue skies and warm weather. As the sun started to set we had clouds roll in among us that almost created a white out at times, and then leave as quickly as they came to give us a great sunset. There was never a dull moment with the landscape.

PRO TIP: If including your fur babies during your elopement, I often suggest bringing along a friend that can be the designated dog handler. While of course you want photos with your pups, they can also be a bit of distraction so it is good to have some portrait time without your dogs as well. A friend can hold them for you, or drive them back to your accommodations.

Florals: The Slow Cult

Want to learn more about eloping in the national forest or the near by national park? Check out this guide where I cover both areas more in depth.

Did you just recently decide to elope and are feeling a little overwhelmed?

While planning an elopement is less stressful than planning a traditional big wedding it can still feel daunting especially with a lack of available resources. I’m here to help!