Elk Flats, Tillamook County, OR | Shantel & Darrion

There’s something about the Oregon Coast that makes you feel like time slows down—where fog hugs the cliffs and the rain doesn’t ruin the day, it becomes part of it. Shantel and Darrion’s Elk Flats elopement was one of those stories where the weather added to the magic instead of taking away from it.

They drove from Portland, chasing the kind of love that doesn’t need sunshine to shine. We met at the trailhead, boots and loafers sinking into damp earth, the ocean humming in the distance. The fog rolled in heavy that afternoon, soft and cinematic, wrapping around us like a blanket. Every moment felt raw and real—like a scene pulled straight from a dream.

Bride and groom embracing each other at Elk Flats Trailhead

Close up of bride's satin dress with the groom's hand around her waist.

Bride and groom walking through fog and rain at Elk Flats Trail

Documentary shot of groom leading the bride away at their coastal elopement

Cinematic shot of Elk flats elopement scene

A Moody and Romantic Oregon Coast Elopement

Elk Flats Trail, nestled between Ecola State Park and the Pacific, is one of the most underrated elopement locations on the Northern Oregon Coast. It offers those epic cliffside views and quiet moments in the forest. On this particular day, everything was soaked in that coastal moody magic: mist weaving through spruce trees, raindrops on skin, wind tangled in her hair. If you’re looking for a less popular spot than Cannon Beach, this one’s for you.

Shantel wore a timeless lace gown with boots made for the muddy forest floor. Darrion kept things simple and classic, but the way he looked at her made it feel like the world stood still next to the roaring ocean. The rain? It only made their vows more intimate. There’s something sacred about promising forever with mud on your hem and salt in the air.

We explored the coastal cliffs, danced in the rain, and ended the evening with windblown hair and soaked jackets. They didn’t flinch once. This is the kind of love story I live to photograph. The imperfect, unfiltered, deeply real kind.

Why Elk Flats is the Perfect Elopement Location

If you’re dreaming of an Oregon Coast elopement that blends cinematic views with wild, off-the-beaten-path vibes, Elk Flats needs to be on your list. Tucked away between Cannon Beach and Arch Cape, it offers dramatic overlooks, secluded forest trails, and that iconic Pacific Northwest fog.

Even on rainy days, it delivers. Especially on rainy days.

Muddy elk flats elopement on the oregon coast

cinematic wide shot of elk flats trailhead on the oregon coast

Hillside shot of the bride and groom at Elk Flats trailhead

Tips for Eloping at Elk Flats

Pack layers: The coastal weather shifts quickly. It can be sunny one minute and fogged in the next. Bring warm, waterproof gear just in case.
Weekdays are best: This trail gets quiet in the off-hours. Choosing a weekday helps you avoid crowds and makes the experience feel more personal.
Wear the boots: You’ll thank yourself. Muddy trails are part of the charm, and good footwear will help you enjoy the adventure without hesitation.
Trust the weather: Fog and rain might just give you the most romantic, cinematic gallery of your life.
Leave no trace: As always, follow Leave No Trace guidelines to protect these beautiful places.

Planning Your Oregon Coast Elopement

Shantel and Darrion’s day is a reminder that elopements don’t need blue skies to be beautiful. Sometimes the best stories are the ones where you lean into the chaos. Where you show up, get a little muddy, and fall a little deeper in love. That’s the core of the Oregon Coast.

Whether you’re coming from Portland, Seattle, or somewhere further away, the Oregon Coast has a way of making you feel like you’re in another world. I’m here for the couples who crave that, who care more about how it felt than how it looked. If that’s you, let’s make something meaningful together.

Three Truths Photo | Oregon Coast Elopement Photographer

This day with Shantel and Darrion reminded me: the rain doesn’t ruin the moment—it makes it unforgettable. I believe in capturing the kind of love that doesn’t ask to be perfect. If you’re dreaming of a foggy, windswept elopement that feels like a page out of your own story, I’m ready when you are. Visit my about page to learn more about your Oregon Elopement photographer :)

Ready to plan your Elk Flats elopement?

Reach out and let’s make it ha ppen. I’ll bring the film, you bring the real.

Check out my services page for specific offers and starting prices.

Eloping somewhere else?

Check out these other blog posts to get inspiration for your intimate wedding or elopement.

Elk Flats Elopement on the Oregon Coast