Getting married in Moab, Utah? Elopements at Arches National Park are iconic. Seriously, as a Moab elopement photographer, it’s one of my favorite places to visit. Outstretched red stone arches, towering rock formations, and miles of desert provide the perfect backdrop for memories and photos you’ll cherish for the rest of your life.
Located near Moab in southeastern Utah, Arches National Park is a famous destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The over 2,000 natural stone arches, including the Delicate Arch, are instantly recognizable, and the landscape is even more surreal during fiery sunsets and sparkling night skies.
With me as your Moab elopement photographer, you can spend more time loving and adventuring and less time planning your Moab wedding.
Top Places To Elope In Arches National Park
Depending on the size of your elopement, you’ll need to book your wedding location in Arches National Park in advance. Here are the most popular Arches National Park “venues.” These locations are pre-approved by the National Park Service. Keep in mind these are only for the ceremony – afterward, you can take photos in other locations in the park.
Delicate Arch
Arguably the most famous arch in the world could be the backdrop to your elopement photos. The hike to Delicate Arch is moderate — ideal for couples who aren’t afraid to get dirty and don’t need modern amenities nearby. Sunset and sunrise weddings at the Delicate Arch are especially magical.
Windows Section
Providing a natural frame for your wedding, the Windows Section has a range of easily accessible arches. The snowcapped mountains in the background make the elopement photos even more otherworldly.
Double Arch
Another easy hike welcomes you to a pair of arches that reach out and embrace each other. Double Arch is one of the top places to elope in Arches National Park and isn’t difficult to reach.
Landscape Arch
Landscape Arch is the longest natural arch in the world, another iconic setting for your Moab, Utah adventure elopement. The hike there is paved, making it more accessible than Delicate Arch but just as striking with the earthy tones of the desert rock.
Sand Dune Arch
If adventure and privacy are what you’re after, the Sand Dune Arch is a lesser-known Arches National Park location. The striking arch is surrounded by sand dunes, keeping your location private and your photos gorgeous.
La Sal Mountains Viewpoint
Overlooking the red rock scenery of the park, La Sal Mountains Viewpoint is easily accessible on a sidewalk from the parking lot. You’ll see the Courthouse Towers, Balanced Rock, and The Windows Section on the horizon as you say your vows.
Moab Elopement Packages Starting at $4,800
How To Plan Your Arches National Park Wedding
Don’t worry! I’m here to help you every step of the way.
- Understand the Utah Marriage Requirements
Before you embark on your Arches National Park wedding, you’ll need to know the legal requirements:
You must get a marriage license from the Utah County Clerk’s Office. You and your partner must apply together with your ID and pay the fee. There’s no waiting period between applying and receiving the license.
Ensure your chosen officiant is authorized to perform marriages in Utah before you apply for the license. Ministers, public officials, and online-ordained family and friends can be officiants.
- Apply For A Permit
Special use permits are required for Arches National Park weddings. You can apply for the permit up to a year in advance, and since weddings can be popular at the park, I recommend not saving this for the last minute. As your Arches National Park wedding photographer, I’ll figure out what permits you need, whether I can apply for them, or if I’ll need your input.
- Think Of The Weather When Choosing Your Wedding Date
Adventure elopements in Arches National Park are at the mercy of the unpredictable elements. Consider the time of year. Summer can be scorching hot, and winters can be colder and even snowy, so spring and fall are the most popular times to get married at Arches National Park. Even during the generally milder months, weather can change quickly, so be prepared for sudden temperature changes.
- Plan Your Ceremony
Do you want a simple elopement with only the two of you, your officiant, and the elopement photographer? Or do you want to include a few close family and friends? Depending on who you invite, location can be a problem. Because Arches National Park is remote, things like public restrooms or easy pathways may be difficult to find. During a Utah elopement planning session, I’ll scout the best locations for your needs.
Think about any traditions or personal touches you want to incorporate into your wedding day — the park service has rules about what you can do and bring for your wedding. As with any outdoor activity, leaving no trace is crucial to preserve the park’s environment and maintain its pristine condition.
Rules For Arches National Park Weddings
Because you’re celebrating your wedding at a protected site, the National Park Service has specific rules. Some of the most important are:
For a complete list, please see the official government page:
- Pets are generally not allowed
- Decorations are prohibited
- Music/audio systems must not exceed normal speaking volumes
- Catering/food service is prohibited
Feeling Overwhelmed About A Moab Wedding?
i can help!
That was a lot of information, so I get it. As a Arches National Park Wedding and elopement photographer, I scout locations (within the parks or outside of!), recommend vendors, and create a detailed timeline for your wedding day. I take damn good photos, too. Want to learn more? Read more about me!
