❄️ Your Guide to a Dreamy Winter Elopement in Central Oregon: cozy cabins, snowmobiles and vows.
A Real Winter Elopement Story at Paulina Lake
There’s something magical about snowflakes falling around you as you say I do in the quiet stillness of winter. Ashley and Max’s February elopement at Paulina Lake was just that — pure magic. This wasn’t just any location either — this snowy lake sits in the heart of the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, just 50 minutes outside of Bend, Oregon. And in winter? It turns into a secluded snowy wonderland that feels straight out of a movie.
Ashley and Max’s love story started on the slopes — literally. Their first date was splitboarding at near Hoodoo, so it made perfect sense to celebrate their wedding in the snow too. Ashley is one of my best friends and was actually one of my bridesmaids, so when she asked me to photograph their elopement with a handful of close friends and pups, I couldn’t have been more excited.
How to Elope at Paulina Lake in the Winter
During the snowy months, the road to Paulina Lake closes at 10-Mile Sno-Park, meaning you can’t just drive in. But that’s part of the adventure! To get there, you’ll need either snowmobiles or a snowcat.
No snowmobiles? No problem!
Paulina Lake Lodge offers a snowcat shuttle service to bring you and your gear up to the lake.
We loaded up our snowmobiles and a friend’s personal snowcat with all of our weekend gear (dogs included!) and made the 4-mile journey up the snowy road. At the top, we checked into a rustic cabin right on the edge of the frozen lake. It was quiet. Private. Totally dreamy.
The weekend was full of cozy cabin hangs, snow-covered portraits, and one heck of a sweet ceremony surrounded by nothing but tall pines and fresh powder. There was laughter, champagne, and even a few tears. It was small, intimate, and unforgettable.
What to Do at Paulina Lake in Winter
If you're thinking about eloping at Paulina Lake, there's more to do than just say your vows:
Rent a cozy lakeside cabin through Paulina Lake Lodge
Go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing around the lake
Soak in the East Lake hot springs (accessible in summer or with a backcountry trek)
Enjoy a snowmobile ride or just chill by the fire with your favorite people
It’s a perfect escape for couples who want something unique, private, and wintery AF.
Prefer a Bit More Luxury? Check Out Elk Lake Resort
Another amazing winter elopement spot in Central Oregon is Elk Lake Resort. Like Paulina, it’s also only accessible by snowcat or snowmobile in the winter — but this spot has a few more luxuries if you’re planning to bring a small wedding party.
Elk Lake picks you up right at Dutchman Flat Sno-Park (super convenient!)
They offer snowmobile rentals onsite
Dogs are welcome 🐶
Larger, more luxurious cabin options available
Just 40 minutes from Bend with views of Mt. Bachelor and the Three Sisters
If Paulina Lake feels rustic and remote, Elk Lake adds a little touch of resort comfort while still keeping that “hidden in the mountains” vibe.
Final Thoughts: A Winter Elopement Worth Remembering
Winter in Central Oregon is a vibe — and Paulina Lake delivers if you're dreaming of an elopement that's quiet, romantic, and totally off-the-beaten-path. Whether you're arriving on a snowcat or spending your evening cozied up in a cabin with your closest people and pups, it’s the kind of elopement day you’ll never forget.
Ready to plan your own winter elopement in Central Oregon? Whether you're envisioning a snowy escape to Paulina Lake or a cozy cabin celebration at Elk Lake Resort, I’m here, your Oregon elopement photographer, to help make it happen.
Check out more real elopement stories here »
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