If you are dreaming of having a Redwoods National Park elopement, then let’s dive into answering your most common questions so you can be prepared!
Table of Contents
Will The Number Of Employees Fired By The DOGE Impact Planning An Elopement In Redwoods National Park in 2025?
The total number of employees let go in Redwoods National Park is 6. The woman who deals with all of the wedding permits is conducting business as usual, so it’s unlikely that the release of 6 employees will have a negative impact on your wedding plans to Redwoods National Park. To avoid sounding alarmist or overreacting, I’m going to take a wait-and-see approach, so I will report back and keep you updated!
You can get the full list of employees lost at each National Park here.
Logistics & Permits For A Redwoods National Park Elopement
🌲 Do we need a permit to elope in Redwood National Park?
Yes, whether you are inviting guests or not, you need a permit.
📝 How do we apply for a wedding permit, and how much does it cost?
You can apply for a permit through the Redwood National Park website, and it costs $200. Keep in mind that the permit process is several steps and takes several months to get approved. It will not work to elope in Redwood National Park in two or three months time. If you have a short window for planning, I highly recommend eloping in Big Sur instead.
📍 Are there specific locations within the park where we can elope?
Yes, there are. Those locations can be found here on the Redwoods National Park website.
👥 How many guests can we have at our ceremony?
The park allows up to 20 guests.
💐 Are there any restrictions on decorations, arches, or florals?
Yes, there are many restrictions. You will not be allowed to have any decorations, arches, or real flowers. Since the wedding bouquet is one of my favorite wedding details and, in my opinion, elevates the elopement photography, I recommend ordering an artificial bouquet. Artificial bouquets can look amazing if done well! For couples that hire me, I have a specific company on my recommendation list for ordering their artificial bouquet and boutonier.
🍾 Can we have a small reception or picnic after the ceremony?
In the day-use areas with picnic tables, you can have a simple picnic after the ceremony with some lunch items, an elopement cake, champagne, etc.
View Caroline Ashley and Will’s Redwood National Park Elopement in December
Best Time & Weather Considerations For A Redwoods National Park Elopement
🌞 What’s the best time of year to elope in the Redwoods?
The best time to elope in Redwood National Park largely depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. Here’s a breakdown:
Spring (March to May) 🌿
- Pros: The park is lush and green, with wildflowers blooming and the weather starting to warm up. The crowds are thinner compared to summer, making it a peaceful time for an intimate ceremony.
- Cons: It can still be rainy, especially in early spring, so it’s a good idea to be prepared for some showers.
Summer (June to August) 🌞
- Pros: This is the peak season for warm, dry weather, ideal for outdoor ceremonies. The park is fully accessible, and you can expect long days with plenty of sunlight for photos. The redwoods look majestic in the summer light.
- Cons: It’s the busiest time of year, so you might encounter more tourists, especially around popular spots like the Tall Trees Grove. Accommodations and permits can be more expensive or harder to book.
Fall (September to November) 🍂
- Pros: Fall brings mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and stunning autumn foliage. The golden light during sunset is perfect for photos, and the weather is usually stable and dry.
- Cons: The park can get chilly as the days get shorter, especially towards November, and some areas may be a little more damp.
Winter (December to February) ❄️
- Pros: Winter in the Redwoods is serene, with fewer visitors and a peaceful atmosphere. If you’re seeking privacy and solitude, this is the best time. Plus, the forest is misty and magical, offering a different aesthetic for photos.
- Cons: It can be rainy and cold, so outdoor ceremonies can be tricky if you’re not prepared for the elements. Some areas might be harder to access due to weather conditions.
Overall Best Time: Late Spring (May) or Early Fall (September)
These months offer a great balance of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful landscapes, making them perfect for an elopement.
Would you like help planning an elopement in either season, or are you aiming for a specific time?
The average temperatures in Redwood National Park by month:
| Month | High (°F) | Low (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 55°F | 40°F |
| February | 56°F | 41°F |
| March | 57°F | 42°F |
| April | 58°F | 43°F |
| May | 61°F | 46°F |
| June | 63°F | 49°F |
| July | 65°F | 51°F |
| August | 65°F | 51°F |
| September | 65°F | 50°F |
| October | 63°F | 48°F |
| November | 58°F | 44°F |
| December | 55°F | 41°F |
The average number of rainy days per month in Redwood National Park:
| Month | Average Rainy Days |
|---|---|
| January | 18 days |
| February | 16 days |
| March | 16 days |
| April | 12 days |
| May | 8 days |
| June | 5 days |
| July | 3 days |
| August | 3 days |
| September | 5 days |
| October | 10 days |
| November | 15 days |
| December | 18 days |
🌫️ Will it be foggy or rainy during certain seasons?
Yes, fog and rain are common in the Redwood National Park, depending on the season, particularly during the colder months. Here’s a breakdown:
Spring (March to May) 🌿
- Fog: Early spring can be foggy, especially in the mornings, as the park is near the coast. This fog can give the forest a mystical, ethereal look but might obscure views of the taller trees.
- Rain: Rain is common in spring, especially in March and April. While the showers are often light, you’ll want to be prepared with a backup plan for an indoor ceremony or rain gear.
Summer (June to August) 🌞
- Fog: Fog is less frequent during the summer, though you might still encounter coastal fog early in the morning or late in the day, particularly in the northern parts of the park. This can make for dramatic, moody photos.
- Rain: Summer is generally dry, with very little rainfall, making it the most reliable time for a sunny outdoor elopement.
Fall (September to November) 🍂
- Fog: Fall can bring early morning fog, especially in October, but it tends to burn off by midday, revealing sunny weather and beautiful fall colors.
- Rain: Like spring, fall has a chance of rain, especially in November. The park gets more rainfall as the season transitions into winter, so having a backup option is smart.
Winter (December to February) ❄️
- Fog: Winter mornings can be extremely foggy and misty, creating a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere. This fog usually dissipates by midday, leaving behind a cool, peaceful forest.
- Rain: Rain is very common in winter, particularly from December through February. This is the wettest season in the park, and it can make some trails slippery or difficult to access. Having waterproof clothing and gear is essential if you’re eloping during this time.
Summary:
- Fog: Most prevalent in spring, fall, and winter, especially in the mornings.
- Rain: More likely in spring, fall, and winter, with summer being the driest time.
If you want to avoid rain and fog, summer is the safest bet, but if you’re open to a more atmospheric experience, fall and winter can offer some stunning photo opportunities despite the elements!
📸 What time of day is best for photos?
I always photograph elopement ceremonies and portraits in the morning and at high noon. This is to make sure there’s enough light coming through the canopy. By mid afternoon, it’s too dark in the forest.
View Francesca and Elijah’s Redwood National Park Elopement With Family
Photography & Vendors For A Redwoods National Park Elopement
📷 Do we need a photographer who is familiar with Redwood National Park?
Yes, it’s highly recommended to have a photographer who is familiar with Redwood National Park for several reasons:
- Knowledge of the best locations
- Expertise with lighting
- Understanding of weather conditions
- Experience with permits and rules
- Efficiency in moving through the park
- Local knowledge of wildlife and safety
Learn More About My Packages & Your Redwood National Park Elopement Experience With Me!
👰 Can we bring an officiant, or do you offer self-solemnization options?
When couples invite guests, I recommend they have an officiant to give their ceremony more formality for the guest experience. When couples have a “just us” elopement, I’m more than happy to pronounce them married after they read their vows and sign their marriage license since I’m ordained. So in that case, you’d be self-solemnizing your ceremony, which is legal in California.
💄 Are there any local florists or hair & makeup artists who specialize in elopements?
Real flowers are not allowed in Redwoods National Park. However, I still want couples to have flowers, so I have my clients order a bouquet and boutioneer from a company that creates realistic-looking bouquets.
There are only a few hair & makeup artists in the area. Remember that Redwoods National Park is located in a remote part of California!
Guest & Accessibility Concerns For A Redwoods National Park Elopement
🧓 Are there easy-to-access spots for older family members or guests with mobility issues?
Yes, there are. When I help my clients through the permit process, I guide them to the ceremony spots with easy access that doesn’t include any hiking.
🐾 Can we bring pets to our elopement?
I do not recommend bringing your pet. Your pet will not be allowed on trails or ceremony spots. Although some spots in the park allow pets, we will not be going there on your elopement day. If it’s really important to you to have your pet be part of the ceremony, Yosemite National Park allows pets on their paved ceremony areas. Learn how I can help you elope in Yosemite.
🚻 Are there restrooms near the ceremony locations?
Yes, for the ceremony sites where I guide my couples to elope, there are restrooms nearby. The restrooms do not have plumbing or electricity, but they are open and close by.
View Ali and Nick’s Redwood National Park Elopement In April
Park Rules & Sustainability For A Redwoods National Park Elopement
♻️ Are there any Leave No Trace guidelines we should follow?
Specific Leave No Trace rules will be included in your permit packet; however, the top ones are:
- Dispose of waste.
- Do not leave any items behind.
- Do not bring any ceremonial decorations, even if they are biodegradable
- Do not bring anything with an open flame
- Do not pick the wildflowers or plantlife to make your bouquet
🎆 Can we bring in candles, flower petals, sparklers, or biodegradable confetti?
No, you are not allowed to bring any of those items, even if they are biodegradable.
🎶 Is amplified music allowed for our ceremony?
No.
View Emily and John’s Redwood National Park Elopement in September
Travel & Accommodations For A Redwoods National Park Elopement
🏨 Where should we stay if we’re eloping in the Redwoods?
There are many vacation rentals in the area!
✈️ What’s the closest airport to Redwood National Park?
I recommend flying into Arcata-Eureka Airport (IATA: ACV). And you will need to get a rental car!
🍽️ Are there good restaurants or catering options nearby?
Due to its remoteness, there are not many options for caterers or exquisite dining. When you elope to Redwood National Park, you will find more “mom and pop” cafes and diners with a rustic/cabin vibe. I’ve listed a handful that have great ratings:
- Good Harvest Cafe
- Woodland Villa Cabins and Restaurants
- Redwood Cafe
- Eel River Cafe
- Alice’s Restaurant
- Trees of Mystery
- Cafe Waterfront
- Woodrose Cafe
- Avenue Cafe
Ready to Plan Your Redwoods National Park Elopement?
A Redwoods National Park elopement is a magical, intimate, and breathtaking experience, but planning ahead is essential. Whether you’re eloping or hosting a micro-wedding, choosing the right location, vendors, and logistics will ensure a seamless day.
Need help finding the perfect Redwood National Park elopement photographer? I specialize in capturing intimate weddings and elopements among these ancient giants. 📸✨
Let’s chat about your dream day!
