Ski elopement at mt. bachelor
Winter Adventure Elopements in Oregon
There’s something wildly magical about standing on top of a snow-covered mountain, wind in your hair, your person beside you, and nothing but the horizon of the Cascade Range stretching out before you. That’s exactly the kind of magic Karina and Ryan created during their winter elopement at Mt. Bachelor in Central Oregon this past January.
If you’re the kind of couple who dreams in trail maps, craves crisp mountain air, and wants your wedding day to feel like the most epic adventure of your life—this one’s for you.
A Love Story Rooted in Adventure
Karina and Ryan’s love story has always been intertwined with the outdoors. From the very beginning, their connection was forged in wild places—laughing around campfires, chasing sunsets on trails, and falling deeper in love on long river trips. When Ryan proposed in the heart of the Grand Canyon on a three-week whitewater rafting trip (yes, seriously), it was clear these two weren’t destined for a traditional wedding.
They wanted something that felt like them—free, adventurous, and deeply connected to nature.
Eloping on Mt. Bachelor: A Winter Wonderland Dream
For their elopement, they chose a place that holds a special place in their hearts: Mt. Bachelor. Located just 22 miles west of Bend, Oregon, and near the cozy mountain town of Sunriver, Mt. Bachelor is a true gem for couples looking to elope in Central Oregon—especially if you live for ski days and alpine views.
Formally named Bachelor Butte, this iconic volcano now stands as the 7th largest ski resort in North America, offering 360 degrees of skiable terrain. It's no wonder Karina and Ryan chose this place to celebrate their love. With a rapidly growing town like Bend, there’s no short supply of coffee shops or breakfast burritos to grab on your way up to fuel your day.
We started the day early, catching the lift and carving down fresh corduroy with wide grins. Karina and Ryan were bundled up in their gear, hearts pounding with the thrill of the ride and the excitement of the day. They exchanged vows at the summit, surrounded by sweeping views of the Three Sisters and Broken Top—just them, their love, and the wide open sky.
Mid-Day Cheers at the Rock Bar
After a few laps on the mountain, we made our way down to the base lodge for a
mid-day break. Karina and Ryan cozied up at the Rock Bar, one of Mt. Bachelor’s most
beloved après-ski spots. With a fire crackling beside us and beers in hand, we soaked
in the sunshine of a perfect bluebird day, looking up at the peak where they had
just said I do.
It was one of those simple, soul-filling moments—laughing, sipping, and letting it all sink in. The joy. The adventure. The fact that they were married, right there on a mountain that meant so much to them.
The Perfect Day for Two Adventurous Souls
We spent the rest of the day skiing and snowboarding through untouched runs, pausing to soak in the views and breathe in the moment. At the summit, they popped champagne and toasted to their future, letting laughter echo across the mountain. It wasn’t just a wedding—it was a celebration of everything they are.
Their Mt. Bachelor ski elopement wasn’t about a timeline or a crowd. It was about freedom. Joy. That unmatched feeling of standing on top of the world with your best friend.
Why Choose a Winter Elopement in Oregon?
Winter elopements in Oregon are for the bold—those who trade high heels for snow boots and prefer flannel over formalwear. From the snowy forests near Sunriver to the powder-filled slopes just outside Bend, the Central Oregon landscape is made for love stories like Karina and Ryan’s.
Eloping in the winter lets you experience the mountains in their most peaceful state. It’s quiet, intimate, and so incredibly beautiful. Whether you're skiing down Mt. Bachelor, snowshoeing to a hidden viewpoint, or cozying up by a fire afterward—winter is the perfect time to say I do in Oregon.
The hike to the summit was closed for high winds, but Ryan and Katrina did not let that ruin their day by any means. We decided to go to the top of Northwest where the views were nothing short of breathtaking.
Thinking About Your Own Adventure Elopement?
If you and your partner are dreaming of a winter elopement in Bend, Oregon, or want to plan a one-of-a-kind ski or snowboard wedding on Mt. Bachelor, I’d love to help you bring your vision to life. Whether you want to hike, shred, or snowshoe your way into marriage, you deserve a day that feels just as adventurous and authentic as your love.
Let’s plan something epic.