Planning A Destination Wedding On Mount Hood
Getting married on Mount Hood outside of Portland, Oregon is a magical experience, no matter the time of year. Each season has something to offer, including waterfalls in the summer and snowy mountains in the winter.
I absolutely love photographing Mount Hood weddings because the mountain presents itself as an actual guest at your wedding. It’s a surreal experience to exchange vows with Mount Hood as a backdrop, and there are many activities for an entire wedding weekend. Not only that, Mount Hood is easily accessible from Portland, making it a convenient location for guests traveling from out of town.
I’m a destination wedding photographer in Portland, Oregon, and I serve Mount Hood and the surrounding areas. Here are some tips as you plan your wedding in one of the most beautiful places in Oregon!
Choose Your Mount Hood Wedding Venue
Nikki and Stephen and their wedding party in front of Silcox Hut at Timberline Lodge in Oregon.
There are several venues on Mount Hood that can host your wedding ceremony and reception. Timberline Lodge, located at an elevation of 6,000 feet, is a popular wedding venue that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountain peaks, including Mt. Jefferson. Timberline is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is operated by the United States Forest Service as a year-round ski resort, so its the perfect place for a snow-loving couple to exchange vows in the winter. The Raven's Nest in Timberline Lodge has floor-to-ceiling windows that provide panoramic views of the mountains, and if you want an even bigger adventure, you can rent Silcox Hut, a historic hut that requires a scenic cat ride toward the summit of Mount Hood. There are several bunk beds and a full service kitchen in Silcox Hut.
Other options for wedding venues on Mount Hood include Cooper Spur Mountain Resort and Mt. Hood Ski Bowl.
And other options that include amazing views of Mount Hood include The Orchard, Gorge Crest, and Mt. Hood Organic Farms.
Book Your Mount Hood Wedding Early
Both summer and winter are very popular seasons for weddings on Mount Hood, so it's important to book your venue early. You should also book your wedding vendors as soon as possible, including your photographer, florist, and caterer. Vendors tend to book up most quickly for popular summer months, while other vendors take time off or travel during the winter— so in both of these circumstances, it’s best to secure your vendors early.
Consider the Weather on Mount Hood
Winter on Mount Hood can be unpredictable with snow and ice, so it's important to have a plan in case of snow or other inclement weather. Keep in mind that chains or winter tires are required for travel up to Mount Hood in the winter months, so consider offering safe transportation for your guests. It’s a great idea to provide hand warmers and/or blankets for guests during outdoor winter ceremonies.
Summer on Mount Hood can get very hot, and in the past few years, wildfires have been an issue. Make sure your venue has a backup plan during wildfire season. During the hot, summer months, you should provide shade and/or fans for your guests, and encourage sunscreen. The sun rays are intense during the afternoon hours! The good news is that summer evenings cool down considerably.
Nikki, Stephen, and their sweet pup, Wonton, enjoying Mount Hood during their wedding reception at Silcox Hut, Timberline Lodge.
Dress Appropriately
In the winter, dress for the snow and cold! Consider wearing a fur cape or a long-sleeved dress to stay warm. You can wear a cape or shawl during the outdoor ceremony and remove it for the indoor reception. Guests should be encouraged to wear hats, gloves, and a wool base layer for outdoor ceremonies. Wool makes a huge difference in the damp, cold weather, and it’s a great way for guests to stay warm. Don’t forget sunscreen! The sun is still very intense in the winter months on Mount Hood.
In the summer, encourage your guests to choose lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, and silk. Since the sun can be very intense, it may be best to opt for long sleeves for UV protection. Jumpsuits and long, flowy dresses are great options. Don’t forget sunglasses and hats!
Plan Weekend Activities around Mount Hood!
There are many amazing activities around Mount Hood, which makes this an even more popular destination for weddings! Your guests can plan a whole weekend!
Summer activities:
Hiking: Mount Hood has plenty of hiking trails for all skill levels. Guests can hike to stunning waterfalls, alpine meadows, and mountain vistas. Some popular hikes include the Timberline Trail, Mirror Lake Trail, and Tamanawas Falls Trail. (here’s a tip! do a geosearch in Instagram for hikes to recent photos and get an idea of current conditions!).
Mountain Biking: Mount Hood also offers amazing mountain biking trails for guests who love adrenaline on two wheels. Sandy Ridge Trail System and Surveyor's Ridge Trail are popular mountain biking trails that offer stunning views of the mountain and surrounding landscape.
Fishing: Mount Hood has plenty of fishing opportunities in nearby rivers and streams. Guests can fish for trout, salmon, and steelhead. The Salmon River and the Sandy River are popular spots for fishing.
Golfing: Mount Hood Oregon Resort offers a beautiful 27-hole golf course that guests can enjoy. The course offers stunning views of the mountain and is a great way to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Kayaking and Canoeing: Guests can rent kayaks or canoes and paddle on the nearby lakes and rivers. Trillium Lake and the Clackamas River are popular spots for kayaking and canoeing.
Horseback Riding: Guests can enjoy a guided horseback ride through the stunning mountain scenery. There are several stables in the area that offer horseback riding tours.
Wine Tasting: The Hood River Valley is known for its vineyards and wineries. Guests can enjoy a wine tasting tour and sample local wines. There are too many to list. One of my favorites places for wine and food is Hiyu Wine Farm— they offer seasonal meals and wines and a farm-to-table experience unlike any other (with the best views!)
Winter activities:
A view of the ski lifts from Silcox Hut, Timberline Lodge.
Skiing and Snowboarding: Mount Hood is known for its ski resorts, including Timberline Lodge, Mt. Hood Meadows, and Ski Bowl. Guests can hit the slopes and enjoy skiing or snowboarding, with options for all skill levels. Each resort offers something different. Personally, I love Timberline because of the experience of sitting in the historic lodge and enjoying a hot drink between runs. Mt. Hood Meadows is best for experienced skiers and boarders looking for more advanced terrain. Ski Bowl offers amazing, discounted night skiing— make sure to stop in the warming hut for some mulled wine or hot cocoa!
Snowshoeing: For guests who prefer a more lowkey winter activity, snowshoeing is a great option. Mount Hood has plenty of snowshoeing trails, including Trillium Lake (in fact, the only way to access Trillium Lake in the winter is on cross-country skis or snowshoes! AMAZING view of Mt. Hood and worth the trek!), White River, and Timberline Lodge.
Snowmobiling: For guests who love adventure, snowmobiling is a thrilling winter activity. You can do a snowmobile tour through Mt. Hood Outfitters or Ski Bowl, both in Government Camp.
Hot Springs: After a day of outdoor activities, guests can relax and unwind in one of the nearby hot springs, such as Bagby Hot Springs. After a 1.5 mile hike, you reach the whiskey barrel tubs and hollowed out logs filled with hot, mineral water. First come, first served. Check to make sure it’s open before your journey!
Sledding and Tubing: Families with children can enjoy sledding and tubing at Snow Bunny Sno Park, located near Government Camp. White River Sno Park is another great place for sledding and offers beautiful views of Mount Hood.
Spa Treatments: For guests who prefer indoor activities, there are several spas in the area, such as The Spa at Mt. Hood, where they can enjoy massages, facials, and other relaxing treatments.
There you have it! Mount Hood is, hands down, one of the best places for a destination wedding because of its stunning scenery, outdoor activities, variety of venues, local food and wine, year-round appeal, and accessibility. Whether you're planning an intimate elopement or a big celebration, Mount Hood offers everything you need and will amaze you and your guests.
more from Nikki and Stephen’s wedding celebration at Silcox Hut, Timberline Lodge:
