Devil’s Lake Fall Colors

On a fall day Baraboo, WI, we captured an elopement turned proposal at Devil’s Lake State Park. Yep, in that order 😉

Wrapping up their epic elopement at Devil’s Lake State Park, the newlyweds double knotted their shoes and hiked up her dress to begin the descent back down from the cliffside. A sudden “Liv, someone is proposing” hissed excitedly in my ears. I turned to see Bryan pointing at the spot we had just retreated from. 

Indeed, there WAS a man down on one knee! This had now turned into a proposal at Devil’s Lake State Park.

Devil’s Lake Hiking

Claire & Austin are known for their love of the outdoors and adventuring. On their very first date, they wrapped up in a blanket and watched the stars together. They stayed up all night and even saw the northern lights. 

When it came time to propose, Austin had the perfect plan in mind. Under the guise of a girls fall hike, Claire and her friend planned a trip to Devil’s Lake. Unbeknownst to Claire, Austin and Claire’s friend had predetermined the hiking trail and spot where Austin would propose.

The park is known for its many hikes – from easy to difficult – which overlook a 360 acre lake and wind among tree-lined rocky outcrops. It’s one of the most unique views of the state of Wisconsin. Considering there’re over 30 miles of hiking trails, it’s only true serendipity that we were all in the right place at the right time.

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A post shared by Olivia & Bryan McCracken | Wisconsin Wedding Photographers (@oandbphotoco)

Devil’s Lake State Park Elopement 

Que Claire spotting a man that “looked a lot like Austin” but that wouldn’t make sense…right? 😉 Well, it WAS Austin, ducking behind trees and looking awfully sus (which is why eagle eyes Bryan noticed him in the first place!). As Claire and her friend snapped a few selfies on the edge of the cliff, Austin got down into position. 

Surprise proposal at Devil’s Lake State Park

And THAT is when Olivia sprinted over hundreds of years of tree roots and small boulders to capture two strangers becoming engaged at a Devil’s Lake State Park elopement. Turns out Austin is a lot less sus and is actually a ninja.

Austin & Claire went on to become two of our very favorite people. I shared happy hour nachos & peanut butter whiskey with them and we captured their intimate Door County Airbnb wedding. Not only that, but they’re literally coming on our 6 year wedding anniversary trip with us and we couldn’t be more delighted!

Here’s to a proposal at Devil’s Lake State Park and strangers becoming dear friends.