Early Summer Tipsoo Lake Elopement with Isabel and Quinten

For couples wanting to elope, a Tipsoo Lake intimate elopement needs to be at the top of your list. Mt. Rainier park is a magical place. You will find luscious forests to wildflowers in the summer and snow capped peaks in the winter. There is no shortage of views to enchant your mind. Late summer (late July through September) offers warmer temperatures and an abundance of wildflowers. If you want privacy and a unique setting then consider early summer (May to June). The snow is beginning to melt but the air is cool and it looks like a winter wonderland.

Getting Ready Together

I met Isabela and Quinten at the Tipsoo Lake Comfort Station. They pull up in the coolest retro van that they use to travel around the country together with their two dogs. They show me their setup which included a small kitchen and seating area and even little doggy beds. They spend some time snuggled in the back of the van with warm coffee and a very camera ready pup. After sharing snippets of their vows, and in true traveler fashion, they change in the van and Quinten helped Isabel with her lace back.

Making It Official

With hiking boots and a handmade bouquet in hand, we carefully trek over the snow towards Tipsoo Lake. The lake in late June is still fairly covered in snow but small openings in the ground reveal flowing water and the mountain summer are just ahead. In the shadow of Mt. Rainier and looming clouds Isabel and Quinten share their vows with one another. Through laughter and smiles they speak of the beginning of a lifetime of adventures.

Enjoying the View

After making their commitments and sharing their first kiss, we spend time around Tipsoo Lake capturing the beauty of our surroundings and exploring the snowy landscape. Quinten is an adventurer by heart so he revels in the opportunity to explore every rock to climb. With an easy accessible trail (in the later summer months) the lake is an ideal spot for timeless photos. Slightly up the road off the comfort center you gain a slight bit of elevation and a new view.

Explore More

Taking photos in the snow inevitably leads to a wet dress and the shivers. Since their van is a major part of their life, I decide to have them change into their comfy clothes and capture their adventurous spirits with the van. Up the road just past Chinook Pass is a beautiful overlook with a small parking lot. It was there we wrap up their Tipsoo Lake elopement together. Their wanderlust hearts are summed up perfectly in the last moments we had together.

Eloping at Tipsoo Lake

If you are considering eloping at Tipsoo Lake, you will want to consider the following information:

• Time of Year: As I mentioned, the snow still abounds in the early summer months. If you are not a fan of the snow you may want to consider later months (July-September) to get views of the wildflowers and greenery. Check out the Mt. Rainier webcams to get a feel for what the mountain areas are looking like before you plan your trip!
• Permits: Wether your intimate elopement includes only you and your partner or a small gethering of guests, always be sure to apply for a Permit first.
• Logistics: The summer months are busy times for Mt. Rainier park and parking, timed entry, and not interfering with other visitor experiences needs to be considered.
• Leave No Trace: We want our national parks to continue to be available for everyone and to protect these treasures. Please be sure to follow the LNT Principles when planning and executing your elopement.
• Book Your Photographer!: Finding a photographer you love is a major victory. Finding someone who knows their way around Tipsoo Lake is a goldmine. Book me here to solidify your win.