Olympic National Park Engagement Photos

As a photographer, I’ve captured special moments in a lot of stunning places—but Olympic National Park remains one of the most versatile and breathtaking spots for engagement photos in the Pacific Northwest. Sabrina and Tanner had recently gotten married the winter prior and decided to take professional photos in the spring when weather was a little nicer and the forest was coming back to life. It ended up being a stormy evening, but it was every bit of lake side Pride and Prejudice you’d expect. If you’re dreaming of dramatic landscapes, lush forests, or rugged coastal vibes, this park checks every box.

Why Choose Olympic National Park for Engagement Photos?

Olympic National Park engagement photos offer a wide variety of backdrops, often within a short drive from each other. You can start in a moss-draped rainforest, head to a glacial lake by midday, and wrap up your session with golden hour portraits on the coast.

Here are a few reasons I recommend this location to couples:

• Diverse scenery: From alpine meadows to black sand beaches, there’s a look for every style.
• Year-round access: Most areas are accessible in all seasons, depending on road closures.
• Privacy: It’s easy to find secluded spots for intimate moments—especially if you’re willing to hike a bit or drive a little further.

Best Photo Locations in Olympic National Park

If you’re planning your session, these are my top locations for engagement photos:

• Hurricane Ridge – Panoramic mountain views and stunning wildflowers in summer. One of my favorite places! Best at sunrise or sunset. Check out this Hurricane Ridge Engagement Session!
• Lake Crescent – Calm blue water, evergreen backdrops, and easy lakeside access. Another favorite with a variety in landscape!
• Hoh Rain Forest – Iconic moss-covered trees and otherworldly green tones. Great at sunrise or sunset due to crowds! I know of some other special rainforest spots outside of the Hoh (Washington has three rainforests!!) if you’re willing to drive a little further.
• Rialto Beach – Sea stacks, driftwood, and epic sunsets along the coast.
• Ruby Beach – A short hike leads to one of the most scenic beaches in the park.

Each spot has a unique vibe, and I often work with couples to choose 2–3 locations based on light, season, and accessibility. This Olympic National Park Wedding combined a historic lodge, waterfalls in the rainforest, and one of the beaches! The possibilities are truly endless.

Best Time of Year for Engagement Sessions

The best time to schedule Olympic National Park engagement photos depends on what kind of scenery you want and how much hiking you’re up for.

• Late Spring to Early Fall (May–October) is ideal for access to most areas. Expect mild weather and clearer skies.
• Summer (July–September) is best for mountain locations like Hurricane Ridge. Wildflowers bloom, and trails are open.
• Fall (October–early November) offers rich foliage, fewer crowds, and moody light—great for forest or lake sessions.
• Winter (December–February) is beautiful for snowy backdrops but requires planning for rain, road conditions and limited access.

I recommend booking at least 3–6 months ahead, especially for summer dates, which fill up quickly.

Where to Stay Nearby

Olympic National Park is huge, so choosing a place to stay near your shoot location makes the day much smoother. Here are a few solid options:

• Lake Crescent or Lake Quinault Lodge – Historic and right on the water.
• Kalaloch Lodge – Great for coastal sessions at Ruby or Rialto Beach.
• Airbnb in Port Angeles or Forks – More flexible and often closer to multiple locations.
• Camping – If you’re up for it, there are plenty of scenic campgrounds in the park.

Final Thoughts

As a photographer, I can’t recommend Olympic National Park engagement photos enough. The natural beauty, variety of landscapes, and relative seclusion make it one of the best spots for couples who want something epic and personal. With a little planning, you’ll walk away with a gallery full of moments that feel both timeless and adventurous.

If you’re interested in booking a session or want help scouting locations, reach out here—I’d love to chat.