We’ve long heard about the epic Diablo Lake since moving to Washington, with its turquoise water surrounded by the jagged mountain peaks of the North Cascades. With this Diablo Lake elopement we finally got the chance to get out and explore this epic area. It did not disappoint.
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Diablo Lake Elopement in the North Cascades
Early June in Washington can be a tough time to explore the high mountain reaches of the Cascades. The many feet of snow that fell over winter is still melting and some of the highest roads are still closed. But the North Cascades Highway is usually open by this time, opening access to some of the most rugged mountains in the whole range. Amidst these peaks lies Diablo Lake, a rich turquoise body of water fed by glaciers high in the surrounding mountains.
For more North Cascades elopement, check out this other North Cascades National Park Elopement.
Diablo Lake was one of the first places that came to mind when these two reached out to us about eloping in Washington. It’s no secret location – many a couple has eloped at Diablo Lake before. But it’s for good reason. A Diablo Lake elopement offers one of the most epic views in Washington with arguably the least effort. The hike to the Diablo Lake lookout area where the elopement ceremonies are usually held is about 100 feet. But that doesn’t make it any less epic. It just means you can pack out more booze and snacks for the post-elopement celebration 😉 But before we went to Diablo Lake for the elopement ceremony, we took Sarah and Lance for a little hike deeper and higher into the mountains for their first look…
Elopement First Look Below Jagged Peaks
Before heading to Diablo Lake for the elopement ceremony, we met up with Sarah and Lance for a little first look hike. This was their first time seeing Washington’s North Cascades in all their glory. We’ve spent a lot of time in these mountains, but whenever we bring a couple in for their first time it’s like we get to experience that feeling all over again. As we hiked out with them, we all gawked with our necks craned up towards the pointy peaks surrounding us in every direction. What’s really crazy is that most of them have been summited by climbers and mountaineers. On this day, though, we settled for a nice overlook well below the summits.
Off to Diablo Lake for the Elopement
After the first look, we piled in our cars and drove to Diablo Lake for the elopement ceremony. When we arrived, it was lightly raining (in true PNW fashion), which added to the dreamy atmosphere. However, just as we walked out to the Diablo Lake overlook, the rain let up and the clouds parted a bit. It was as if the mountains said, “Okay, you can get married now.” While one friend officiated and another stood close by, Sarah and Lance made it official high above the turquoise waters of Diablo Lake.
Clouds clung to the mountainsides but the rain held for the rest of the day. After the ceremony, Sarah and Lance set up a cute table with decorations and a cake and we all made sandwiches and drank Champagne. This is what elopements should be – a totally relaxed day just having fun and adventuring in an epicly beautiful place. At one point, Sarah and Lance even busted out a yoga pose together, which was super impressive given the attire. It took a little to get the form right, but they nailed it. This was our first Diablo Lake elopement, but we doubt it’ll be our last. Diablo Lake, you just too beautiful. We can’t wait to go back.
Want more North Cascades elopement inspiration? Check out this North Cascades Backpacking Elopement.
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