🌲 How to Plan a Dog-Friendly Redwoods Elopement at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
If your heart’s set on towering redwoods, golden light filtering through the canopy, and your pup wagging happily by your side — then a Redwoods dog-friendly elopement at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park might be exactly what you’ve been dreaming of.
Located just outside Santa Cruz, Henry Cowell Redwoods is a breathtaking location that perfectly blends adventure, peace, and pet-friendly charm. You’ll find lush trails, towering trees, and plenty of quiet corners for intimate “I do” moments — all while keeping your furry family member part of the celebration.
🥾 The Best Dog-Friendly Trail: Pipeline Road
While most trails in Henry Cowell Redwoods are off-limits to pets, Pipeline Road Trail is a total gem for couples bringing their dogs. It’s wide, scenic, and surrounded by towering trees that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale.
Not to worry — even though dogs aren’t allowed on the inner redwood loop trails, there are still so many amazing photo spots along Pipeline Road. The filtered light through the forest, moss-covered trunks, and fern-lined paths create that dreamy redwoods backdrop that’s perfect for elopement portraits.
💡 Pro Tip: Keep your pup on a leash and bring eco-friendly waste bags — the trail is shared with cyclists and hikers.
🚫 River Access: Important to Know
Dogs aren’t allowed in the river at Henry Cowell Redwoods, so if your furry friend loves the water, you’ll want to save that splash time for later.
The good news? There’s a dog-friendly beach just 20 minutes away near Lighthouse State Beach in Santa Cruz! It’s the perfect spot to head after your redwoods elopement for golden-hour photos, a relaxing walk, or a celebratory picnic while your dog plays in the sand.
🐚 Want Even More Variety? Head to Garrapata Beach in Big Sur
If you’re up for a little extra adventure, we can also venture about an hour south to Garrapata Beach in Big Sur — one of the most stunning dog-friendly beaches along the California coast.
Here, your elopement photos will feature dramatic cliffs, rolling coastal hills, and turquoise waves — a perfect complement to the moody redwoods backdrop. Garrapata offers that cinematic variety couples love: think romantic forest portraits in Henry Cowell, followed by windswept coastal moments at sunset in Big Sur.
It’s an easy add-on to your elopement day or the perfect location for a next-day adventure session with your pup.
🐕 Tips for a Smooth Dog-Friendly Elopement
Bringing your pup along for your Redwoods dog-friendly elopement can make the day extra special — but a little planning goes a long way. Here are some helpful tips:
- Bring a friend or family member to help watch your dog while we venture deeper into the redwoods for portraits where pets aren’t permitted.
- Pack a collapsible water bowl and plenty of fresh water to keep your dog hydrated — especially on warm days.
- Bring treats or a favorite toy to keep your pup’s attention during photos (and reward all that good posing energy!).
- Keep a leash handy — the park requires dogs to be leashed at all times.
- Check the weather and trail conditions before your visit, especially during rainy months when the paths can get muddy.
🌅 Make It a Full Adventure
After your ceremony at Henry Cowell, head to Santa Cruz for dinner or a sunset beach stroll — you’ll be just minutes from beautiful coastal spots like Lighthouse Field State Beach or Natural Bridges State Beach.
Or, make it a weekend getaway with your pup! There are plenty of dog-friendly cabins, lodges, and Airbnbs nearby that welcome pets. Imagine cozying up by the fire with your new spouse and your furry best friend after a day spent exploring the redwoods and coast together.
💌 Ready to Plan Your Redwoods Dog-Friendly Elopement?
Your elopement day should feel like you — and if that includes your four-legged best friend, I’m here for it. From finding the perfect trail and planning the timeline to ensuring your pup is comfortable and included, I’ll help you create a stress-free, love-filled day in the forest.
Whether you’re envisioning an intimate ceremony under the redwoods, photos at sunset by the ocean, or an adventure at Garrapata Beach, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is the perfect place to bring your love story (and your pup!) to life.
🐾 Let’s plan your Redwoods dog-friendly elopement together!
👉 Inquire about your Redwoods Elopement here.
