Adventurous Elopement in Redwood National and State Parks: A Complete How to Elope in the Redwoods Guide
There’s something otherworldly about the moment you step beneath a redwood canopy. The air gets quieter, the light dances between ancient trunks, and everything feels… sacred. If you’re dreaming of a wedding day that feels like stepping into a fairytale forest—where time slows down and love echoes through the trees—a Redwoods elopement might be exactly what your heart is searching for.
Whether you’re envisioning an intimate barefoot vow exchange under the tallest trees on earth, or a full-day adventure with coastal views, wild elk, hidden trails, and misty beach strolls, the Redwood National and State Parks offer a truly unforgettable backdrop for your love story.
Need more Redwoods wedding inspiration? Check out this intimate wedding in the Redwoods! 🌲
Why Elope or have a Micro-wedding in the Redwoods?
This place makes you feel small in the best way possible. It reminds you that love is timeless. That your story deserves a beginning rooted in nature, intimacy, and awe.
When you choose a Redwoods elopement, you’re choosing adventure, intention, and the kind of beauty that will live on in your memories and your photos forever.
Getting to your Redwoods Elopement: Fly into ACV
The closest and most convenient airport is Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV). It’s a small regional airport about 45 minutes from Prairie Creek Redwoods, and perfect for couples flying in from major hubs like San Francisco, LA, or Portland.
Other travel options to get to the Redwoods:
- Road trip from San Francisco (5–6 hours) or Portland (6–7 hours)
- Fly into Medford or Redding and rent a car
Tip: If you’re planning a road trip elopement through California’s coastline, the Redwoods make a perfect stop!
How to Get Around the Redwoods
You’ll need a rental car—there’s no Uber or reliable public transportation in most areas. Parking is limited at popular trailheads, especially during summer weekends, so early arrivals are key.
While the surrounding area of ACV does have Uber, it can be unreliable since it’s a small town. Renting a car is highly recommended for convenience and to ensure you can easily access all your planned destinations during your Redwoods elopement.
Best Town to Stay in for your Redwoods Elopement: Trinidad
Trinidad, a charming coastal town, is the ideal place to stay during your Redwoods elopement. With its cozy accommodations, beautiful beaches, and proximity to the park, Trinidad offers everything you need for a memorable stay. Enjoy the local seafood, explore the quaint shops, and soak in the breathtaking coastal views. Here are my favorite go-to places in Trinidad:
- Trinidad Bay Eatery: The best place for lunch and dinner, offering delicious local seafood and a cozy atmosphere.
- Beachcomber Cafe: The perfect spot for breakfast and coffee, known for its fresh pastries and welcoming vibe.
Check out my Trinidad California Elopement Guide here for your stay and elopement in the Redwoods area!
Other Romantic Accommodations for you Redwoods Elopement: Where to Stay for Your Redwoods Elopement
Looking for cozy cabins, cliffside views, or boutique inns? These are some of the most romantic places to stay:
In Trinidad, CA
- Trinidad Bay Bed & Breakfast – Ocean views and charming vibes
- The Lost Whale Inn – Spa and gourmet breakfasts
- The Front Porch Inn
In Humboldt County
- Carter House Inns (Eureka) – Victorian elegance with modern comfort
- Inn at 2nd & C (Eureka) – Historic boutique hotel with easy city access
In Crescent City
- Scopa at the Sea – Private retreat steps from the ocean
- Oceanfront Lodge – Watch the sunset from your balcony
Redwoods Elopement Permits: How to Obtain a Redwoods Special Use Permit
Once we’ve chosen your ceremony site, we’ll apply for the Special Use Permit through either the National Park Service or California State Parks (depending on the location), and secure a photography permit if needed.
Don’t stress—I’ll help you navigate all the paperwork and make sure everything is squared away well before your date.
For Redwoods National Parks Elopement
- Visit the Redwood National Park Special Use Permit website.
- Fill out the Special Use Permit application form, detailing your ceremony plans.
- Email your completed application to redw_special_use_permits@nps.gov
- You will receive a link from pay.gov to pay the $200 application fee.
- Wait for approval from the park authorities, which typically takes a few weeks.
For Redwoods California State Parks Elopement (like Prairie Creek or Humboldt)
To apply for your Special Use Permit for a Redwoods elopement within a California State Park (such as Prairie Creek or Humboldt Redwoods), you’ll need to complete and submit the following forms and documentation:
- Special Event Permit Application (DPR 246)
- Special Event Permit Application Supplement (DPR 246A)
- Certificate of General Liability Insurance (DPR 169A)
- Permit Fee: $200 payment made payable to:
State of California Department of Parks and Recreation
(Check or Money Order only)
Submission Options
- You can submit your permit application in any of the following ways:
- By Email: 📧 NCRD.Permits@parks.ca.gov
- By Mail: North Coast Redwoods District Attn: Permit Coordinator P.O. Box 2006 Eureka, CA 95502
- In Person: Contact the Permit Coordinator for drop-off instructions.
- Questions? For help or permit-related questions, contact the North Coast Redwoods Permit Coordinator directly: 📧 NCRD.Permits@parks.ca.gov 📞 707-572-9626
- Also requires a separate photography permit (I will take care of this for you!)
Don’t worry—I help all my couples navigate the paperwork with ease.
| Park Type | Permit Needed | Photography Permit | Where to Apply | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| National Park | Yes | Included | NPS Redwoods Permit Page | $100–200 |
| California State Park | Yes | Yes (separate) | California State Parks Site | $200–300 |
| Arcata Community Forest | No | No | N/A | Free |
Best Time of Year for your Redwoods Elopement
The Redwoods welcome couples year-round, but each season has its own magic (and quirks!). Here’s what to expect:
🌸 Spring Redwoods Elopement (March–May)
Pros: Lush greenery, blooming wildflowers, fewer crowds
Cons: Occasional rain, chilly mornings
🌞 Summer Redwoods Elopement (June–August)
Pros: Warm weather, accessible trails, golden light
Cons: More tourists, parking can be limited
🍁 Fall Redwoods Elopement(September–November)
Pros: Vibrant foliage, moody mist, fewer people
Cons: Cooler temps, early sunsets
❄️ Winter Redwoods Elopement (December–February)
Pros: Peaceful solitude, enchanting fog, dramatic lighting
Cons: Rainy season, some trails may be muddy or closed
| Season | Pros | Cons | Crowd Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | Wildflowers, lush greenery | Rain likely, chilly mornings | Low |
| Summer | Clear skies, long daylight | Busy trails, higher prices | High |
| Fall | Colorful foliage, moody fog | Shorter days, cool temps | Medium |
| Winter | Quiet, magical mist and solitude | Rain, mud, limited trail access | Low |
Best Month to Elope in the Redwoods?
September strikes the perfect balance—mild weather, fewer crowds, and that dreamy golden hour glow through the trees.
Best Time of Day to Elope in the Redwoods
Sunrise is pure magic here. Not only will you beat the crowds, but the soft morning light filtering through the redwoods creates an ethereal glow you can’t replicate later in the day.
Tips for a sunrise Redwoods elopement:
- Avoid weekends and holidays
- Plan for weekdays
- Bring headlamps if hiking before dawn
- Pack layers—it’s chilly in the early morning!
Best Ceremony Locations in the Redwoods
You can take photos almost anywhere with a permit, except for four spots!
Four Redwoods spots where ceremonies are not allowed:
- Fern Canyon
- Lady Bird Johnson Grove
- Stout Grove
- James Irvine Trail
Top Redwoods Elopement ceremony spots:
- Gold Bluffs Beach – Dramatic cliffs and ocean views
- Foothill Trail (Prairie Creek) – Majestic redwood groves and easy access
- Crescent Beach Overlook – Cliffside vows with a Pacific Ocean backdrop
- Cathedral Trees Trail – Towering serenity
Jedediah Smith vs. Humboldt vs. Prairie Creek Elopements
Jedediah Smith Redwoods Elopement
- Pros: Towering trees, emerald river, old-growth beauty
- Cons: More remote, fewer facilities
Humboldt Redwoods State Park Elopement
- Pros: Avenue of the Giants, massive groves, picnic areas
- Cons: Further inland, less coastal access
Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park Elopement
- Pros: Elk sightings, lush meadows, Fern Canyon nearby
- Cons: Popular trails can get crowded
Each park offers a unique vibe—whether you’re drawn to coastal magic, deep forest mystique, or riverfront serenity.
Best Redwoods Elopement Locations by Group Size
| Location | Max Group Size | Accessibility | Dog-Friendly | Permit Type | Scenic Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gold Bluffs Beach | 20 | Easy | No | State SUP | Ocean views, cliffs |
| Foothill Trail | 10 | Easy | No | State SUP | Towering redwoods |
| Crescent Beach Overlook | 6 | Easy | Yes | National SUP | Ocean backdrop |
| Arcata Community Forest | Flexible | Moderate | Yes | None | Redwoods, dog-friendly |
Alternate Ceremony Beach Locations near the Redwoods
If you prefer a beach setting for your Redwoods elopement, consider these stunning locations nearby:
Trinidad State Beach
With its rugged coastline and dramatic cliffs, Trinidad State Beach offers a picturesque setting for a beachside elopement. The stunning ocean views and serene ambiance make it a perfect alternative to a forest ceremony.
Moonstone Beach
Moonstone Beach, known for its smooth, sandy shores and beautiful rock formations, is another excellent option. The beach is easily accessible and provides a romantic backdrop for your special day.
Luffenholtz Beach
Luffenholtz Beach is a hidden gem with stunning coastal views and secluded spots for a private ceremony. The beautiful rock formations and the combination of ocean waves and coastal cliffs create a truly magical setting.
Best Dog-Friendly Redwoods Ceremony Location Alternative: Arcata Community Forest
For couples who want to include their furry friends in their Redwoods elopement, Arcata Community Forest is the perfect alternative. This beautiful forest offers dog-friendly trails and does not require a permit for an elopement ceremony, providing a hassle-free and picturesque setting among the redwoods.
Other Dog-Friendly Elopement Alternatives
Most trails don’t allow dogs, but here are more amazing options:
- Arcata Community Forest – Redwood trails + no permit needed
- Trinidad State Beach – Dogs welcome and stunning for photos
- Moonstone Beach – A mix of forest and ocean, very photogenic
- Humboldt Coastal Nature Center Trails – Dog-friendly & peaceful
Adventure Activities for your Redwoods Elopement
Some of our favorite activities to include on or around your elopement day:
- Horseback riding on the beach or through the redwood forest
- Kayaking in the Smith River or lagoons
- Hiking through cathedral groves
- Swimming in local lakes or riverbanks
- Fishing charters from Crescent City
- Stargazing in the dark-sky zones
- Skyline at Sequoia Park Zoo – A fun post-elopement activity!
Budget Considerations for a Redwoods Elopement
One of the biggest perks of eloping in the Redwoods? You can create an unforgettable experience without the massive price tag of a traditional wedding. But it’s still important to budget for the key elements that will make your day stress-free and magical.
Here’s a general breakdown of what to expect:
| Category | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Special Use Permit | $100–300 |
| Photography | $3,500–8,000 (full-day coverage) |
| Travel (flights, gas) | $300–1,200 (depends on origin) |
| Accommodations (2–4 nights) | $600–2,000+ (luxury stays) |
| Hair + Makeup | $300–600 |
| Officiant (if not symbolic) | $200–500 |
| Florals / Bouquet | $150–400 |
| Picnic / Dinner / Private Chef | $200–700 |
| Adventure Add-ons (kayak, horse ride) | $100–300 |
Total range: Anywhere from $5,000–12,000+ depending on how simple or luxurious you’d like to go.
Want help crafting a day that fits your budget while still feeling elevated and adventurous? I’ve got you covered with planning guidance and custom vendor recommendations based on your vision.
Accessibility & ADA-Friendly Ceremony Locations in the Redwoods
The Redwoods are vast and wild, but there are still beautiful and meaningful ways to elope here while accommodating different mobility needs or accessibility considerations.
Many of the ceremony locations I recommend have ADA-accessible features, such as:
- Crescent Beach Overlook – paved viewing area with minimal incline
- Foothill Trail (first segment) – wide, flat trail with shaded rest areas
- Prairie Creek Visitor Center area – paved paths with interpretive signage
- Gold Bluffs Beach overlook points – parking nearby, flat access
If you or a guest uses a wheelchair or has limited mobility, I’ll help identify ceremony and photo locations that are equally stunning without long hikes or uneven terrain.
And of course, I’ll work with you to plan a timeline that’s supportive, spacious, and full of magic—no matter your access needs.
Redwoods Elopement Packing List
To ensure a smooth and stress-free Redwoods elopement, here’s a handy packing list:
- Wedding attire (dress, suit, shoes)
- Legal documents (marriage license, IDs)
- Ceremony essentials (rings, vow books)
- Comfortable hiking shoes for walking/hiking
- Warm Layers
- Outerwear (jackets, shawls) for cooler temperatures
- Personal items (makeup, hair accessories)
- Snacks and refillable water bottles
- First aid kit
- Blanket (for a cozy picnic or photo session)
- Portable Phone Charger
- Headlamp for hikes in the dark
- Hair pins or veil weights
- Bug spray & sunscreen
Wedding Dress Ideas for the Redwoods
Choose a gown that flows with the landscape and allows for movement on trails or beaches:
- Lightweight, flowy fabrics like chiffon or tulle
- Earthy tones, off-white, or champagne hues
- Add a cape, veil, or wrap for warmth and drama
- Hiking boots or sandals with good grip
- Detachable skirts or layers for adventure elopements
Need more Redwoods Elopement dress help? Check out my Adventure Elopement Wedding Dress Guide here!
Legal Marriage Requirements in the Redwoods: How to Marry Legally in the Redwoods
To legally marry in the Redwoods of California:
- Apply for a marriage license at any CA county clerk’s office. Here is the nearest County Clerk’s office where you can obtain your Marriage License for your Redwoods ceremony— Humboldt County Clerk!
- No waiting period, valid statewide
- One witness & one officiant is required (Optional Redwoods Officiant services are included in all of my elopement packages!)
- Must have your Redwoods elopement ceremony and return the license to the issuing office within 90 days.
Symbolic ceremony option:
Want to skip the paperwork stress? Many couples legally marry at home first and then have a symbolic elopement here in the redwoods. Just as meaningful—zero hassle.
Redwoods Elopement Vendor Coordination
Redwood National Park and the surrounding areas have limited local vendors, so you’ll need to coordinate with vendors from nearby towns like Humboldt County or Redding. As your elopement photographer, I will provide you with a list of vendor recommendations in these areas to help with your Redwoods elopement planning! Here are some tips:
- Research and book vendors (photographers, officiants, florists) well in advance.
- Communicate your location and logistics clearly with your vendors.
- Consider hiring a local wedding planner who specializes in elopements to help coordinate everything smoothly.
Redwoods Elopement FAQ
Do we need a permit if it’s just the two of us?
Yes—permits are required for any ceremony.
Can we have guests?
Yes! Most elopement locations accommodate up to 20 guests. I’ll help you choose the best one for your group size.
Can we bring our dog?
Not to most trails, but yes to nearby dog-friendly alternatives.
What happens if it rains?
We embrace it! Fog and drizzle make the forest feel even more magical. I’ll help you prep with flexible plans and weather-ready gear.
Do I need a Redwoods elopement photographer familiar with the area?
Absolutely! Having someone who knows trail conditions, best lighting, and hidden spots makes all the difference.
How to Plan Your Redwoods Elopement – Step-by-Step
Planning an elopement doesn’t have to feel overwhelming—especially when you have someone guiding you every step of the way. Here’s a clear, simple breakdown of how to bring your Redwoods elopement to life:
1. Choose Your Ideal Date
Start by narrowing down your season based on weather, light, and crowd levels. I always recommend weekdays and sunrise ceremonies to make the most of the peaceful forest and avoid tourist traffic.
Need help picking the perfect time? I’ll walk you through the pros and cons of each season and location.
2. Select Your Ceremony Location
Whether you envision saying your vows on a cliffside overlooking the ocean or deep within a redwood grove, I’ll help you find a ceremony spot that matches your vision, guest count, and accessibility needs.
You’ll also receive a personalized location guide with photos, descriptions, and my expert tips—so you feel confident and inspired when choosing.
3. Apply for the Proper Permits
Once we’ve chosen your ceremony site, we’ll apply for the Special Use Permit through either the National Park Service or California State Parks (depending on the location), and secure a photography permit if needed.
Don’t stress—I’ll help you navigate all the paperwork and make sure everything is squared away well before your date.
4. Book Travel & Lodging
Next, you’ll want to book your flights (most couples fly into ACV – Arcata-Eureka Airport), and reserve your lodging nearby. Whether you want a cozy forest cabin or a luxury ocean-view inn, I’ll send over a curated list of romantic accommodations in Trinidad, Humboldt, and Crescent City.
Tip: If you’re flying in from afar, aim to arrive at least a day early to unwind, explore, and prepare stress-free.
5. Build Your Elopement Timeline
Together, we’ll design a custom timeline that flows with intention and adventure. From sunrise first looks to mid-morning picnics or post-ceremony kayaking, I’ll make sure every part of your day feels relaxed, meaningful, and totally you.
6. Plan Your Activities & Personal Touches
This is where the fun really begins! Whether it’s horseback riding, a private beach picnic, or a sunset stroll, I’ll help you dream up unique elopement-day experiences that make the day unforgettable.
Want a florist? A private chef? A post-elopement photoshoot in the ferns? You got it—I’ll guide you to handpicked vendors who specialize in intimate celebrations.
7. Pack Your Bags and Get Ready for the Adventure of a Lifetime
Once the plans are set, all that’s left to do is pack your gear (don’t worry—I’ll send you a packing checklist!) and show up ready to marry your favorite person in one of the most awe-inspiring places on Earth.
Ready to Start Planning Your Redwoods Elopement?
Let’s turn this dream into a breathtaking reality. Whether you already have a location in mind or just know you want to get married under the trees, I’m here to help with every detail—from permits to photos to that perfect sunrise moment.
Reach out today to start planning your Redwoods elopement with an experienced, heart-led guide and photographer by your side. I can’t wait to hear your story! Contact me here!
About the Author & Photographer
Hey, I’m Sheryl—your go-to Redwoods elopement photographer, planning expert, and adventure buddy! After years serving in the U.S. Navy and photographing love all over the world, I now help couples like you craft deeply meaningful, wildly beautiful elopements rooted in nature and intention. I believe your wedding day should feel like you—whether that’s barefoot in a redwood grove or dancing under the stars.
Let’s create something unforgettable!
