Dead Horse Point State Park
A Dead Horse Point wedding has all the mystique, views, and activities for a dream adventure elopement. Dramatic 2000-foot canyons, winding rivers, stunning red stone, and breathtaking night sky views make some say that it’s even more spectacular than the Grand Canyon.
The best part? The park is a short distance from the town of Moab, so if you’re getting married in Moab, Utah, it’s the most accessible park. And because it’s a Utah state park, not a national park, they’re less strict about rules – decorations, dogs, and seasonal permitted drones are allowed (the Moab National Parks don’t allow eloping with dogs).
You don’t have to figure out all these details on your own, though. As a Moab elopement photographer, I know all the best spots for a Dead Horse Point wedding. I’m sharing some here, but the rest are for my booked couples.
Why Elope At Dead Horse Point
My top three reasons for a Dead Horse Point wedding other than, well, it’s gorgeous? Here they are:
- There are many breathtaking places to get married in Moab, Utah, but most are not hidden gems. Arches National Park receives over 1.5 million visitors every year. Canyonlands National Park has almost 1 million. Dead Horse Point State Park has about 500,000 visitors a year, making finding privacy for an intimate wedding easier, especially during early morning hours.
- Dead Horse Point State Park is a designated Dark Sky Area. The sky comes alive at night with twinkling stars and the Milky Way — perfect for stargazing and photo-ops.
- Adventure awaits. We know you want to get married, but what if you could adventure while you’re at it? Combine your ceremony with your favorite activities. Rock climbing, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and even river rafting can be incorporated into your elopement.
Best Places To Elope At Dead Horse Point
Remember that all places to elope at Dead Horse Point are open to the public, even if you book the spots in advance with the park.
Want the Dead Horse Point views without the permits and tourists? As your Utah elopement photographer, I scout public land close to Dead Horse Point for a more intimate wedding. Yes, I can find free places to get married in Utah.
Cliff Side
The isolated viewpoint shows the stunning Utah landscape. It’s harder to get to than the other places to elope at Dead Horse Point, making it the best spot for a secluded Dead Horse Point wedding ceremony that fits up to 20 people.
Point Bench
The small bench overlooking the canyon is a beautiful spot to relax or host a tiny elopement. The uneven surface means only five people can attend, but Point Bench is easily accessible, so you can take photos throughout the park after the ceremony.
West Bench Site
The easily accessible West Bench site has striking views just beside the parking lot, making it easily accessible to wedding guests and tourists that you might not want in your photos. It accommodates up to 50 people.
Shade Shelter Site
The Dead Horse Point venue has space for seating and overlooks the canyons below. It’s the most accessible spot in the park and ideal for a more traditional wedding with up to 100 people. The views are breathtaking!
La Sal Site
The northwest viewpoint has sweeping vistas of the canyon below, and the La Sal snow capped mountains in the distance. Because of its uneven surfaces, it’s not as easily accessible. This can be a good thing: fewer tourists and breathtaking views. It can accommodate up to 25 people.
Map of all the Venue Locations
When To Get Married At Dead Horse Point State Park
hint: there’s no bad time! but there is a best time
The desert climate means that the park can experience extreme temperatures. Scorching summer heat can exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Winters can be cool and windy, especially on the exposed viewpoints. The best times to elope at Dead Horse Point State Park are spring and fall for mild weather conditions. Remember that the weather can change quickly with an adventure elopement, even during peak season, so come prepared. Or, bring someone who knows what to expect (a.k.a. me!)
Planning Your Dead Horse Point Wedding
I’ll help you personalize this as your Moab elopement photographer, but here are some facts to get you started.
Understand The Utah Marriage Requirements
Before you embark on your Dead Horse Point wedding, you’ll have to 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.
Ensure your chosen officiant is authorized to perform marriages in Utah. Ministers, public officials, and online-ordained family and friends can officiate in Utah.
Plan Your Ceremony
Decorations are allowed at your Dead Horse Point wedding if you leave no trace. Chairs, an arch, and other decorations are allowed, although you’re responsible for all setup and take down. Because Dead Horse State Park is only 35 minutes from Moab, it’s not difficult to find food and accommodation options nearby.
Apply For A Permit
All couples must apply for a special use permit before their wedding date. As your Utah elopement photographer, I can help you apply for this. Permit cost depends on the size of your wedding. Utah State Parks recommends applying for the permit at least 30 days before your wedding.
Ditch The Normal Way To Getting Hitched
elope with me! (<<<that’s me, kelly!)
As your elopement photographer, I’m hyped to be your adventure buddy through it all — scouting private locations, figuring out what permits we need, creating an elopement day timeline, recommending vendors, and taking your gorgeous adventure elopement photos.
Basically, you didn’t even need to read this blog since Dead Horse Point weddings are my thing. 😉
