A Dreamy Smith Rock Elopement: An Oregon Adventure

A bride and groom looking at each other during their Smith Rock adventure elopement. They stand at an overlook with red and brown cliffs towering over the muddy crooked river.

If you’re looking for the perfect place to elope in Oregon, Smith Rock State Park is an absolute dream. With its stunning rock formations, winding river, and breathtaking sunrise views, it’s the perfect location for couples who want an adventure elopement. As an Oregon elopement photographer, I had the honor of capturing Matt and Christy’s special day, and their two-day celebration was nothing short of magical.

Matt & Christy gazing into each other's eyes after exchanging their vows in front of the river and cliffs during their Smith Rock elopement.

A Two-Day Elopement Experience

Matt and Christy wanted a mix of adventure and an intimate ceremony with friends and family, so they opted for my two-day elopement package. This allowed them to have the best of both worlds—an intimate wedding ceremony on the first day and an epic Smith Rock adventure elopement on the second.

Day One: A Cozy Smith Rock Airbnb Wedding

The first day started early in the morning at a stunning Airbnb perched on a cliff just outside Smith Rock State Park. The inside of the Airbnb had large windows that offered sweeping views of the park, creating the perfect backdrop for a heartfelt ceremony.

Their wedding setup was simple yet elegant. They rented faux florals, a sustainable option, and arranged seating for their guests against the backdrop of towering rock formations. One of my favorite local officiants, Wendy Duncan, led a heartfelt and personalized ceremony that truly captured their love story.

Following the ceremony, the couple and their guests enjoyed a catered lunch by Blue Bite Catering. A unique highlight of the reception was their traditional Scandinavian wedding cake, where pulling the top rings is said to predict how many children the couple will have—a fun moment that had everyone laughing.

Day Two: An Adventure Elopement at Smith Rock

The second day was all about adventure. We met before sunrise to hike into Smith Rock and witness the first light illuminating the cliffs—a truly breathtaking sight. Matt and Christy embraced the adventure elopement experience, hiking down in casual gear before changing into their wedding attire for intimate portraits by the river.

Matt, an avid fly fisherman, incorporated his passion into their elopement by bringing along his fishing rod. Meanwhile, Christy, an animal lover, had the chance to interact with the local wildlife, including a hilarious group of geese that kept us entertained throughout the morning.

After an unforgettable morning of exploring, we capped off the adventure by visiting Crescent Moon Alpaca Farm. Christy was thrilled to meet and feed baby alpacas—an experience that perfectly aligned with her love for animals.

Why Smith Rock is Perfect for Your Oregon Adventure Elopement

If you’re considering an Oregon adventure elopement, Smith Rock should be at the top of your list. Here’s why:

Epic Scenery: The dramatic rock formations and river views create an unbeatable backdrop.
Versatile Elopement Options: Whether you want a hiking adventure or a cozy Airbnb ceremony, Smith Rock offers both.
Year-Round Beauty: Even in early spring, when weather can be unpredictable, the park remains stunning with snow-capped peaks and wildflowers in bloom.
Nearby Activities: From hiking and rock climbing to visiting local alpaca farms, there’s no shortage of adventure.

Planning Your Own Smith Rock Elopement?

As an Oregon elopement photographer, I specialize in capturing intimate and adventurous weddings that reflect your unique love story. Whether you’re drawn to Smith Rock, the Oregon Coast, or the Columbia River Gorge, I’d love to help you plan and document your dream elopement.

Get in Touch!

If you’re thinking about eloping in Smith Rock or anywhere in Oregon, I’d love to answer any questions and help bring your vision to life. Reach out via my website or leave a comment below!