If you’re dreaming of an adventurous and meaningful wedding day surrounded by nature, an elopement in Mount Shasta is the perfect choice. With its snow-capped peak, serene alpine lakes, and peaceful forest trails, Mount Shasta offers a stunning backdrop for a full-day experience that feels personal and unrushed. Here’s what an 8 hour elopement in Mount Shasta can look like from start to finish.
Starting Your Elopement in Mount Shasta With a Peaceful Morning
Your 8 hour elopement in Mount Shasta begins in a cozy cabin or Airbnb tucked into the forest. I’ll arrive while you’re getting ready to document those quiet, intimate moments—zipping up your dress, helping each other with final touches, writing vows, or sharing coffee together on the porch. These early parts of the day set the tone and tell the beginning of your story.
Timeframe: 1–2 hours
First Look Surrounded by Mount Shasta’s Forests
One of the most beautiful things about an elopement in Mount Shasta is how private and still everything feels. For your first look, we’ll find a quiet trail or creekside spot where you can see each other for the first time without distractions. You’ll have time to breathe, connect, and feel all the emotions before your ceremony.
Timeframe: 30–45 minutes
Saying Your Vows in Mount Shasta
The ceremony is the heart of your elopement in Mount Shasta. You can exchange vows at Castle Lake, Heart Lake, or a scenic overlook with the mountain in the background. Whether it’s just the two of you or a handful of loved ones, this space feels sacred. I’ll help you find the right location based on accessibility, lighting, and privacy.
Timeframe: 1 hour including travel
Celebrating With a Picnic and Champagne Toast
After your ceremony, we’ll head to a peaceful spot for a picnic. Bring your favorite snacks, a bottle of champagne, and maybe even a small cake. A mountaintop toast or lakeside picnic is the perfect way to slow down and enjoy the moment. You deserve time to just be together.
Timeframe: 1 hour
Portraits That Capture the Magic of Your Elopement
Once you’ve celebrated, we’ll explore some of Mount Shasta’s most scenic spots for portraits. This can include walking around Castle Lake, stopping at forest trails along Everitt Memorial Highway, or hiking up to a ridge at sunset. These portraits are all about movement, connection, and documenting your adventure in a real, natural way.
Timeframe: 2 hours
Ending Your Elopement Day at Sunset
The final hour of your 8 hour elopement in Mount Shasta will be spent chasing golden light. Whether that’s barefoot in a field, cozy under a blanket, or dancing together at the lake’s edge, this is the peaceful wind-down to your day. The light, the colors, and the quiet atmosphere always make sunset feel magical.
Timeframe: 1 hour
Why Choose an 8 Hour Elopement Day
Your elopement in Mount Shasta doesn’t need to be rushed. With eight hours, you can soak in the experience, explore multiple locations, and create meaningful memories without stress. It’s your story—told slowly, intentionally, and surrounded by nature.
Want help planning your dream elopement in Mount Shasta? I’ll guide you through it all—from scouting the best ceremony spots to building a timeline that feels true to you.
Lets talk about your Mount Shasta Elopement!
Hey I’m Kristin!
I’m a California elopement planner and photographer who knows Mount Shasta, California inside and out! I will help you with location scouting, navigating permits, timeline creation, and of course, epic photography!
If you’re looking for a laid-back, stress-free wedding day full of meaning (and amazing views), this is your perfect spot.
Elopement Resources
How to Elope in California
Why Couples Elope: Choosing Meaning over Tradition
Elopement Activities to Make Your Day Unforgettable
