Oregon offers a stunning array of waterfalls that provide a picturesque backdrop for those of you looking to get married in nature’s beauty. Sahalie Falls, nestled in a forested area, is an insanely beautiful option, with its waters plunging into a crystal-clear, blue pool below. Proxy Falls, Latourell Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Kentucky Falls, Abiqua Falls, and Hug Point Waterfall, are other absolutely stunning options. These waterfalls offer a unique setting and create a romantic atmosphere, making them perfect locations for a memorable wedding ceremony. These are just a few I recommend, however there is truly no limit to the options of waterfalls in Oregon. Whether you prefer the power of larger falls or the delicate beauty of smaller ones, Oregon’s waterfalls provide an ideal setting for you to exchange vows and begin your journey together!
Why Should You Get Married At A Waterfall In Oregon?
Having your wedding or elopement at a waterfall in Oregon can be an incredibly romantic and unique experience. Here are some reasons why you should consider it:
- Natural Beauty: Waterfalls offer breathtaking natural beauty that can create a magical backdrop for your wedding ceremony. The combination of the rushing water, lush greenery, and serene surroundings provides a perfect setting that is hard to get in any other venue.
- Sense of Adventure: Choosing a waterfall as your wedding location adds adventure to your special day. Whether it involves hiking to reach the waterfall or experiencing the mist and spray of the falls, it can create an exhilarating and memorable experience for both you and your guests!
- Serenity and Tranquility: Waterfalls have a soothing and calming effect. The sound of rushing water and the peaceful atmosphere can create a serene ambiance, allowing you and your partner to feel connected to nature and each other.
- Intimate Setting: Waterfalls often provide a more intimate setting for your wedding compared to traditional venues. With fewer distractions and a closer connection to nature, you can focus on the true essence of your commitment and share your special day with those who mean the most to you.
Remember, when planning your wedding at a waterfall, it’s essential to research local regulations, accessibility, and safety considerations.
How Do You Get Married At A Waterfall In Oregon?
To get married at a waterfall in Oregon, I recommend that you follow these steps:
- Research Waterfall Locations: Look for waterfall locations in Oregon that allow weddings or elopements. I highly recommend those waterfalls mentioned in this blog, but choose whatever your preference is!
- Check Permit Requirements: Determine if permits are required for weddings or elopements at your chosen waterfall location. Contact the relevant authorities or visit the park’s website to find information about permits and any associated fees.
- Plan Logistics: Consider the accessibility and logistics of your chosen waterfall. Some waterfalls may require hiking or walking to reach the ceremony site, so make sure it is suitable for you and your guests. Also, consider factors such as parking, restroom facilities, and any additional arrangements you may need to make.
- Hire a Photographer: To capture the beauty of your waterfall wedding, consider hiring a professional photographer (like myself!) who specializes in outdoor weddings or elopements. They can help document your special day and create lasting memories.
- Arrange Officiant and Witnesses: Find an officiant who can perform your wedding ceremony at the waterfall. Ensure that they are familiar with outdoor ceremonies and can accommodate your preferences. Don’t forget to arrange for witnesses as required by Oregon law.
- Decorate and Personalize: Enhance the natural beauty of the waterfall with some simple decorations that complement the surroundings. Consider incorporating elements like flowers, greenery, or fairy lights to add a touch of romance and create a personalized setting. Remember to leave no trace of anything you bring!
- Inform Your Guests: If you plan to invite guests, provide them with detailed instructions on accessing the waterfall location, including any hiking trails or parking information. Consider providing alternative arrangements for guests who may have difficulty reaching the site.
How Do You Pick Which Waterfall In Oregon To Get Married At?
Picking which waterfall you want to get married at is all about your personal preference! If you want a bigger waterfall with one major stream consider that! If you want a waterfall with multiple little streams making a massive background consider that as well. Follow your heart and whatever speaks to you and your partner. Consider all the factors from location, accessibility, safety, and weather to put into your decision. Being picky is totally okay! With the endless options of waterfalls in Oregon, you are certain to find a spot that checks all your boxes.
Below I have some of my favorite waterfalls in Oregon and some I think would be absolutely beautiful for your future wedding or elopement!
Oregon Waterfall Wedding Locations Chart:
| WATERFALL | TOTAL HIKE DISTANCE | NEAREST CITY | WATERFALL HEIGHT | PERMIT REQUIRED |
| Sahalie | 200 ft. | Bend | 73 ft. | No |
| Proxy | 3.0 Miles | Eugene | 226 ft. | No |
| Latourell | 4.4 Miles | Portland | 224 ft. | No |
| Bridal Veil | 1.2 Miles | Portland | 118 ft. | No |
| Kentucky | 4.4 Miles | Eugene | 117 ft. | No |
| Abiqua | 1.4 Miles | Salem | 92 ft. | No |
| Hug Point | 1.4 Miles | Portland | 15 ft. | No |
Sahalie Falls
Sahalie Falls might be my absolute FAVORITE waterfall for weddings and elopements. Basically, you will see Sahalie Falls for its natural beauty consisting of a massive waterfall and mossy forest all around. The McKenzie River falls hard over the cliff of this waterfall and has absolutely beautiful clear and dark blue river accents below. It is located right off the highway and so easily accessible for those who want an extremely short hike! This waterfall is in a perfect location. There are plenty of nature activities to do in the area from hiking to canoeing. Additionally, It is also so closely located to other well-known waterfalls, like Koosah Falls and Proxy Falls. Sahalie Falls is so ideal for you if you are wanting to add more stops to your elopement day or make it a whole wedding weekend!
Proxy Falls
Additionally, just 30 minutes away from Sahalie Falls, you will find Proxy Falls. Proxy Falls is a 226 foot fall waterfall that makes you feel like you are in the middle of the rainforest! You can reach Proxy Falls by driving down a paved road and parking at the trail loop. After hiking 1.5 miles through lava fields and thick forests you will see the waterfall. Proxy Falls consists of water flowing so gently over rock formations. It is truly picturesque, and if you’re adventurous you can get right under the waterfall! Proxy Falls would be a great location if you are wanting a little bit of privacy and want room to roam. The area underneath the falls is perfect for exploring and you may get a little wet in the process!
Latourell Falls
Another Waterfall I highly recommend is Latourell Falls, located near Portland in Northern Oregon. Latourell Falls is another tall waterfall standing at 224 feet. There is one stream that spills over the lip of a cliff. This waterfall is incredibly photogenic. After a quick hike, and crossing a bridge you can walk right up to it! In any angle you are sure to get the waterfall in the background of your photos. Latourell Falls is moderately popular, so plan a time to go during the week or early in the morning. This waterfall is ideal for you if you are wanting something close to the big city and still have an adventurous feel. Check out a recent Latourell Fall Engagement Session that I photographed.
Bridal Veil Falls
Located right down the road from Latourell Falls you will find Bridal Veil Falls. Bridal Veil Falls looks just as it sounds…like a bridal veil! Imagine a 118 foot waterfall moving over two cliffs in lush greenery, emptying into a pool below. Bridal Veil Falls is easily accessible by taking only one of the two trails at this location. Overall, there is a short half a mile hike to the just falls. You can only view this waterfall from the bridge area, but it is a show stopper in photos. I would recommend going on a weekday or early in the morning to avoid crowds. Bridal Veil Falls is for those who want to stay dry, but want a unique wedding experience. Photo credits: Gorge Friends.
Kentucky Falls
If you are wanting an adventure with an incredible view, Kentucky Falls might be for you! Kentucky Falls is located in Western Oregon just an hour east of the coast! Kentucky Falls consists of three different waterfalls that you can see from only two different trails. The first hike will be under a mile and bring you to Upper Kentucky Falls. After stopping and seeing that waterfall up close and personal, you will have a 1.5 mile descent to the twin Lower Kentucky Waterfalls. Kentucky Falls would be perfect for those of you wanting more than one waterfall in your photos, as you can see three in just one hike!
This hike is can be a challenge, as there can be mudslides, climbing over or under trees, and entirely uphill on the hike back. Choosing Kentucky Falls as your wedding location can be incredibly rewarding as it is remote and has extremely light traffic! You could almost be certain to have the waterfalls to yourself. Photo credits: A trish out of water.
Abiqua Falls
An hour east of Salem, Oregon you will find Abiqua Falls. Abiqua Falls is a rocky looking waterfall with one stream falling off of a cliff into a pool below. This waterfall is located on private property, but the owners are gracious enough to let the public view as they wish! The trail isn’t well marked so it is important to stay on trail, bring a map, and respect all the boundaries of the landscape. The viewing area for Abiqua Falls would be the perfect place for sharing your vows as you can spread out and have the waterfall in every angle of your background.
Abiqua Falls will be a moderate hike if you have a high clearance vehicle, or if you just want to hike. If you arrive in only a car, I’d recommend parking further away and hiking the extra mile to the waterfall. Since the hike to this waterfall is rocky it is possible to be very slippery and muddy, so plan ahead! Additionally, people call Abiqua Falls “unworldly” and a hidden treasure. Photo credits: let’s fly somewhere.
Hug Point Waterfall
Hug Point Waterfall might be the most unique waterfall on this list. Only because it is located on a beach! You will find Hug Point Waterfall near Cannon Beach on the Oregon Coast. If you are wanting a spot with more than just a waterfall with no hike, this is what I would recommend! Hug Point Waterfall will only be visible during low tide on the beach. It commonly floods if the ocean levels are up. Pick a time to go when you are certain of low tide, and enjoy the views of this waterfall and maybe the infamous Cannon Beach along with it. Photo credits: The foxes photography.
What Should You Wear To Get Married At An Oregon Waterfall?
Getting married at a waterfall is a magical and unique experience! Here are some suggestions for what to wear on your special day:
Clothing
Since most of these waterfalls require a hike, think about wearing practical footwear. Consider wearing comfortable hiking shoes with good grip to navigate any potentially slippery surfaces. If you’re open to it, you could even go barefoot for a natural feel. You can always slip off your shoes once you get to the waterfall. Obviously, if it’s for your wedding you’ll likely want to dress up! Depending on the season and weather, plan to bring or wear clothes that will keep you comfortable on the hike. This might include a light coat to keep warm, or a waterproof jacket in case of rain. I would recommend changing into your dress or suit once you get to the waterfall, it might be muddy on the hike. You can always wear whatever you’d like, and what is most comfortable to you!
Hair & Accessories
For accessories, embrace the natural surroundings by keeping your accessories simple and minimalistic. Consider incorporating fresh flowers into your bouquet. For hair and makeup, choose hairstyles and makeup looks that are natural and effortless, enhancing your beauty without looking overly done. Think about makeup and hairstyles that can withstand the elements as there will be mist at most of these falls!
Remember, the most important thing is to feel comfortable and confident on your special day. Enjoy the unique beauty of your waterfall wedding and create unforgettable memories!
What Is the Best Time To Get Married At An Oregon Waterfall?
The best time to elope at a waterfall in Oregon can vary depending on your personal preference and the specific waterfall you choose! One factor is the weather. If you prefer sunny and warm conditions, summer (June to August) will be your best bet. However, if you appreciate the moody ambiance of the Pacific Northwest and don’t mind cooler temperatures, spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) can provide a unique and beautiful experience. Another consideration is avoiding crowds. Choosing a weekday for your elopement can help you enjoy a more intimate and private experience away from the peak tourist seasons. Also, consider a sunrise elopement for less visitors!
Ultimately, the best time to elope at a waterfall in Oregon depends on your preferences for weather, ambiance, and crowd levels.
Are You Ready To Get Married At An Oregon Waterfall?
Overall, having your wedding or elopement a waterfall in Oregon is truly a one of a kind experience. Consider a waterfall for your wedding if you want that perfect ambiance, jaw dropping photos, and connection with nature. There are so many different shapes and sizes of falls. Whether you are wanting to take a long hike in the forest, or walk right up to the waterfall there is sure to be a perfect fit for your wedding or elopement.
If you are ready to take that next step and book your waterfall elopement, contact me today and we can connect for your free consult call. Let’s dream up the perfect day together!
