🌸 Wildflower Elopement in The Columbia River Gorge: A Vintage Spring Dream in The Dalles
There’s something undeniably magical about springtime in the Columbia River Gorge. The rolling hills explode with wildflowers, the sun lights up the peaks of Mt. Hood, and the air feels fresh with possibility. It’s the perfect place for couples who want to break free from tradition and elope in a way that feels connected to nature, and each other.
That’s exactly what inspired this vintage-style styled elopement in The Dalles with Delciae and Noah—a couple whose love story is as romantic as the views around them.
If you're planning your own adventure, you can read more about the trail details and reviews on AllTrails or check out this detailed hiking overview from OregonHikers.org. These are both super helpful for checking conditions and seeing current trail photos.
🥾 Hiking the Sevenmile Hill Trail for the Ultimate Wildflower Experience
We planned this dreamy spring shoot for May 6th on the Sevenmile Hill Trail, a 1.6-mile out-and-back trail with sweeping wildflower meadows, expansive views of Mt. Hood to the south, and the Columbia River to the north. Located just 90 minutes from Portland in The Dalles. While the wildflowers were already wilting at the trailhead, we hiked higher and boom—colorful blooms were still thriving at the top. (Yes, I was low-key freaking out at the start, but I had done my research and knew they were in full bloom just two days prior. 😅)
Pro tip for planning a wildflower elopement:
Go earlier than you think. Wildflowers usually peak around the last week of April
Bring a picnic, a blanket, your favorite beverage and favorite people (or just your partner)
Want a variety? Start this hike early and add a waterfall hike midday for more photo ops.
We started our hike around 3 p.m., and although the incline was steep, the distance wasn’t too long. The payoff? Absolute seclusion. Not a single crowd in sight—just us, the flowers, the sky, and one other hiker who passed by hours earlier.
🧺 A Romantic Picnic Elopement with Columbia Gorge Views
At the top of the trail, Delciae and Noah set up the sweetest little picnic: cheese, cherries, crackers, cured meats, and adult beverages. No stress, no schedule—just joy and connection.
As I gave them space to just be, I captured the quiet glances, the laughter, the way they held each other as if they were falling even deeper in love with every second. This is what eloping is all about—freedom, peace, and presence.
We even stumbled on a tiny hidden orchard halfway back down the trail and had to stop for a few quick photos (and a little impromptu dance). These are the unplanned moments that make your elopement story truly yours.
🌄 Sunset Ceremony at Tom McCall Viewpoint
After the hike, we relaxed at the car—cracked a couple beers, hung out on the tailgate, and soaked in the views. Because that’s the beauty of eloping: it’s your day, your pace.
For sunset, we made our way to the iconic Tom McCall Viewpoint, just 15 minutes away along the Old Columbia River Highway. While this spot is stunning (think golden hour bouncing off fields of flowers with the Columbia River as your backdrop), it was definitely more crowded. We were so glad we started the day at Sevenmile Hill where we had the space to slow down and connect.
To escape the crowd, we headed across the peninsula for one last intimate moment—just Delciae, Noah, and the golden hour glow. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sky lit up and wrapped the couple in light. We stayed out past blue hour, not wanting to leave that kind of magic behind.
💐 Why the Columbia River Gorge Is a Dream Elopement Spot in Oregon
From waterfalls to wildflowers, orchards to open skies, this region gives you so much variety in one day. Want a chill picnic followed by epic sunset vows? Done. Want to add a waterfall first look earlier in the day? Totally doable at nearby spots like Wahclella Falls or Bridal Veil.
Best of all? There are trails for every level, photo ops around every turn, and lots of ways to make your day uniquely you.
💬 Thinking About Eloping in Oregon?
If you’re dreaming of a wildflower elopement in Oregon, the Columbia River Gorge should be at the top of your list. Sevenmile Hill Trail offers peaceful seclusion and unbeatable views, while nearby locations like Tom McCall Viewpoint give you that “wow” factor for golden hour photos. As a Oregon elopement photographer, this may have been one of my favorite locations yet, with the endless sweeping views that no one could get tired of.
🌼 Thinking about a spring elopement? Let’s make it happen! I’ll help you plan a day that’s fun, relaxed, and full of beauty. Whether you want to add a waterfall adventure or keep it cozy with a picnic and views, I’ve got you.
📩 Reach out here to start planning your Oregon elopement.
📍 Want more inspo? Check out my guide to eloping in Central Oregon for more epic locations!
