If you've ever dreamed of saying your vows beneath a canopy of ancient redwoods, surrounded by the quiet hush of the forest, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park might just be the perfect place to start your forever. Tucked just outside of Santa Cruz, this magical park is home to towering trees, peaceful trails, and a timeless stillness that makes it feel like your own private sanctuary.

Whether you're planning a simple two-person ceremony or bringing along a few close friends and family, this forest is an incredible setting for a heartfelt, down-to-earth elopement.

Sunlight streams through towering redwood trees as a couple shares a romantic moment on a forest path.
A small engagement ring box and pink heels sit nestled among green clover leaves in soft natural lighting.
A couple in formal attire walks together on a forest trail surrounded by towering redwood trees and lush greenery.

When To Elope In Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park


As a Santa Cruz local, I can confidently say that this area is beautiful year-round—but each season brings its own distinct energy to your day. Late spring through early fall tends to offer the most predictable weather. September, in particular, is one of my favorite months here: warm days, a touch of coastal fog in the mornings, and very little chance of rain. It’s truly a golden window for elopements.


That said, don’t overlook winter. If you’re drawn to moodier, more atmospheric vibes, this season can be magical. Fog drifts through the redwoods, rain deepens the colors of the forest, and that earthy, post-storm scent will awaken all your senses.


No matter when you choose to elope, I always recommend steering clear of weekends. Henry Cowell is a local favorite, and weekdays are your best bet for a quieter, more intimate experience.

Sunlight streams through towering redwood trees as a couple shares a romantic moment on a forest path.
A small engagement ring box and pink heels sit nestled among green clover leaves in soft natural lighting.
A couple in formal attire walks together on a forest trail surrounded by towering redwood trees and lush greenery.

Permit Info


Henry Cowell does require a Special Event Permit for wedding ceremonies, even small ones. You can obtain the permit through California State Parks. It’s best to apply at least 4 to 6 weeks in advance, especially if you have guests or vendors involved. There are restrictions on amplified sound, setup, and decor, so it’s a good idea to check with the park office ahead of time to avoid surprises. If you want to see the full special event guidelines you can click here.


The permit for an elopement here costs $300.


Something cool about Eloping in Henry Cowell is that you can actually reserve a redwood grove. This costs $200, has a maximum capacity of 20 people, there cannot be any decorations or set up, and has a 1 hour time limit. This ensures you have a private spot for your ceremony!


Contact info for permits:

Website: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=546

Email: mtnspecevent@parks.ca.gov

Park Office: (831) 335-4598

Couple in wedding attire holding hands in a sunlit forest with rays of light streaming through tall evergreen trees.
A couple embraces in a misty forest clearing as sunlight streams through tall evergreen trees in the background.
A bride in a light flowy dress holds a white floral bouquet while standing in a scenic wooded forest setting.

Planning Tips

  • Parking: There is a day-use parking fee, and lots can fill up on weekends. Carpooling is helpful if you have a group joining you.
  • Hire a Local Photographer (like me 😁)
  • Cell Service: Limited to none in many areas. Coordinate plans in advance.
  • Getting Ready: There are no formal getting-ready spaces in the park, but nearby Airbnbs or cabins in Felton or Santa Cruz make great pre-ceremony prep spots.
  • Footwear: Trails are mostly flat and easy to navigate, but still best to wear shoes you can walk in comfortably.
Joyful couple embraces in a lush garden setting as sunlight filters through the trees.
Two people sitting at opposite ends of a wooden bench in a serene redwood forest setting.
Sunlight streams through tall forest trees as a couple shares a romantic moment on a dirt path during golden hour.

Ideas to Make It Special


  • Bring a picnic to share under the trees after your ceremony.
  • Have your first dance in the forest, just the two of you.
  • Explore the trails for sunset portraits in soft golden light.
  • Hire a local florist to create a wild, forest-inspired bouquet.
  • Rosalea designs is my favorite florist in town!
  • Drive down to Humble Sea Brewing, grab a couple beers and take them down to the coast!
  • Eat at The Shadowbrook in Capitola!
  • Go wine tasting in the Santa Cruz Mountains before or after your ceremony.
Rolling green meadow dotted with yellow wildflowers stretches to evergreen forest and misty mountain peaks in the distance.

Final Thoughts


Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is a dream elopement destination for couples seeking peace, natural beauty, and a truly meaningful setting. Its accessibility, magical atmosphere, and quiet trails make it one of the best places to elope in Northern California.


If you’re ready to plan a laid-back, love-filled day among the redwoods, this might just be your place. And if you're looking for a photographer who knows the area and how to make the most of the forest light, we'd love to be part of your story.

Silhouette of a couple embracing in a field with autumn trees and mountain backdrop at sunset.

Planning Your Elopement in California?


As photographers who spend our lives exploring California’s wild corners—from misty redwood groves to sun-soaked cliffs—we know how to chase the light, find the quiet moments, and tell your story in a way that feels true to you.


If you’re planning an elopement in California and want a team who can help guide the flow of the day, scout the perfect locations, and document your love with care and intention—we’d be honored to be a part of it.


Let’s create something unforgettable, wherever the road takes you.

Contact us!