Leave No Trace at Your Mount Rainier National Park Engagement Session or Elopement

Whether you’re eloping or adventuring for your engagement session, having your photos taken in a national park is a magical experience that connects you with the beauty of nature. However, it’s essential to remember that national parks are protected areas, and it’s crucial to leave no trace. Whether you are new to exploring national parks or a seasoned adventurer, we can all do our part to ensure that the people that come after us are able to enjoy them too. Sometimes people are unaware of their affects on nature so below is a few tips to leave no trace at your mount rainier national park engagement session. 

Tips for leaving no trace during your Mount Rainier national park engagement session or elopement: 

1.Choose a Low-Impact Location: 

When choosing the location for your national park elopement, opt for a low-impact area. Look for established areas that have been previously used for events and avoid areas with sensitive ecosystems. Often times if your elopement includes a guest count, your permitting with specify which locations are an option for your ceremony in order to accomadate your guest party count. STAY ON TRAILS AND NOT IN MEADOWS, and trust me with your photos. I promise, we’ll get photos of you with the wildflowers and stunning views.

2. Follow Park Regulations: 

Each national park has its own set of regulations that you need to follow when planning your engagement session or elopement. Make sure to check the park’s website or contact the park rangers for information on permits, restrictions, and rules. If you’re eloping in Washington, be sure to check out our elopement guides for additional tips and information. The Mount Rainier Elopement Guide provides shortcuts to all of this information. 

3. Minimize Your Footprint: 

One of the essential aspects of leaving no trace is minimizing your footprint. Avoid using decorations, confetti, or balloons that could harm the environment or wildlife. Instead, keep it simple (I mean the nature is beautiful enough!) and opt for natural décor, such as flowers or leaves, that can be easily removed without causing any harm.

4. Pack it In, Pack it Out: 

One of the most important principles of leaving no trace is to pack it in, pack it out. This means that you should take all of your trash and belongings with you when you leave. Bring garbage bags and recycling containers to make it easy to clean up after the event. Bonus – bring a trash bag with you and pick up other’s trash at the end of your session or ask your guests to if it’s your wedding day! 

5. Use Biodegradable Products: 

If you’re planning to use disposable items, such as plates and utensils, make sure to use biodegradable products. These products are designed to break down quickly and won’t harm the environment.

6. Respect Wildlife: 

National parks are home to a wide variety of wildlife, and it’s important to respect their space. Don’t feed or approach wildlife, and keep a safe distance at all times. And don’t be surprised if they make their way into your gallery if we do see them!

7. Leave What You Find:

Mt. Rainier National Park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, and it’s important to leave everything as you found it. Avoid picking flowers or plants, and don’t disturb wildlife or their habitats.

Having a national park engagement session or elopement is a beautiful way to celebrate your love story and make lasting memories. However, it’s essential to remember these things so that one day your children and grandchildren can enjoy them too.