How to elope in Joseph, Oregon | A cinematic mountain elopement guide
- Haleyanne Hess
- Jun 19
- 3 min read
Nestled in the heart of Northeast Oregon is the town of Joseph - where wide open skies, snowcapped mountains, and glacial lakes meet.
It’s raw, wild, and quietly breathtaking, the kind of place that's hard to find and even harder to leave.
Couples seeking something intimate, intentional, and naturally stunning - eloping in Joseph offers the perfect blend of peace and grandeur.
Where and how to elope in Joseph
One of the most magical things about eloping in Joseph is that there’s no one way to do it. Whether you’re dreaming of a peaceful mountaintop ceremony or a long hike into the heart of the wilderness, there's options for every kind of love story.
Ride the Tram to the Top of Mount Howard
For couples who want sweeping views without the sweat, the Mount Howard Tramway is a dream. In ~15 minutes, you’ll be carried to 8,000 feet, where you'll find panoramic views of the Wallowas and Wallowa Lake. It’s quiet, romantic, and makes for a truly unique ceremony. Bonus: very little hiking required and there's cold beer at the top.
The Tram is open May-October.
Here's the link to reserve your day:
Hike to Mirror Lake
For the wild-hearted couples who want to go all in, Mirror Lake is an incredible backcountry elopement location. The trail is challenging, as the lake sits 7 miles from the trailhead, but the reward is a pristine alpine lake reflecting the peaks around it. It's a place that feels untouched, sacred, and deeply invigorating.
Hike up the same day with your partner and closest friends, exchange vows as the sun melts over the mountains, sharing a fire, stories, and laughter long into the night, then settle in under the stars surrounded by the stillness of nature and the glow of something unforgettable.
If you're feeling extra adventurous - you could exchange vows on top of Eagle Cap. This summit is around 2 miles from the lake with an elevation gain of under 2000 feet. The view from the top is stunning, looking over all of Lakes Basin with Matterhorn in the distance.
Best time of year for an elopment here: July-September
Getting there: Start at the Two-Pan campground out of Lostine and take the East Fork trail. This will lead you past a waterfall, through a gorgeous meadow, to your destination - Mirror Lake.
Take in the views on the East Moraine
Above the glassy waters of Wallowa Lake, the East Moraine offers one of the most breathtaking places to elope in all of Eastern Oregon. With sweeping views of the lake below and the Wallowa Mountains across the water, it's nothing short of sacred. The short hike to the top is gentle and short .5-1.5 depending on your ceremony location prefrence, making it perfect for incredible views without a strenuous trek. Whether you're exchanging vows at sunrise with soft light pouring over the ridge, or saying “I do” as the sun dips behind the peaks, the East Moraine is nothing short of unforgettable.
Best time of year for an elopement here: March-December
Getting there: About .25 before the lake there's a parking lot/pull out to the left. Park there and go past the trees, you'll find the trail - it sits parellel to the highway.
There are MANY stunning elopement spots in Joseph and the Wallowa Mountains. If you're curious, reach out and I'd be happy to chat.
What It’s Like to Work With Me
I’m based right here in Joseph, and this corner of the world means everything to me.
When I photograph an elopement here, I’m not just capturing pretty views, I’m documenting your most important day in a place that feels sacred, grand, and extremely special.
I’ll help you plan your day from start to finish, offering guidance and all the support you need to feel confident and excited every step of the way.
When the day arrives, my approach is calm and unobtrusive. I’ll gently step in when needed, for portraits or quiet direction, but otherwise, I’ll fade into the background, allowing you to be fully present while I turn your story into art.
If you’re dreaming of a wedding day that feels more like a slow, quiet adventure, if you want to get married with the wind in your hair and the mountains at your back, Joseph might be calling to you. And if it is, I'd be honored to capture it.
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