What’s the perfect recipe for an elopement?
here are my favorite utah parks to get married
It’s hard to choose the best places to elope in Utah when the varied vistas include mountain passes, desert beauty, alpine forests, fantastical red rock formations, and petrified sand dunes.
Whether you’re getting married in Moab, Utah, or heading to the southern Utah national parks like Zion, I’m here to be your favorite adventure buddy, capturing your memories of the day and scouting the best Utah elopement spots for you.
Nice to meet you, where you been?
i can show you incredible things – like the best places to elope in utah
Hi, i’m Kelly!
Utah Adventure Wedding & Elopement Photographer
That’s me <<< and my hubby, Alex when we got hitched in the Utah desert 🏜️ . I’m a Utah Elopement & Adventure Wedding Photographer who’s been romping around the southwest for years now and know a thing or two about eloping.
When it came time for me to get married, I just knew I wanted to say “I do”, and not have a list of things “To-do.” Ya feel me? That’s why i’m super passionate about helping my couples bring their dream day to life (because i’ve been in your shoes), and it all starts with the where – where can you elope in Utah?
Keep reading to find out my favorite places to elope in Utah. And then reach out and let’s start planning your wildly different wedding experience in Utah. I am ready, are you??
Getting Married in Moab, Utah
A nature lover’s paradise, the small town of Moab is surrounded by red rock formations, canyons, and desert vistas, making for a unique backdrop for your wedding. Here are the three most popular national parks for getting married in Moab, Utah.
Getting Married In Arches National Park
Popular spot for iconic sandstone arches
With over 2,000 natural stone arches, pinnacles, rock fins, and other unique rock formations, Arches National Park is a magical place to elope in Moab. The red rock formation is striking, perfectly framing photos in other-earthly geology. There are a few designated wedding locations in Arches which you can choose when applying for a permit. Both are close to the parking lot and park amenities.
Getting Married In Canyonlands National Park
Large Utah Park with a variety of rugged landscapes
Canyonlands is full of dramatic canyons, mesas, and buttes still being carved by the Colorado River. As the biggest national park in Utah with 3 districts: Island in the Sky, The Needles, and The Maze, there are a lot of photo opportunities. Canyonlands is not too accessible, making it a good choice for smaller groups of adventurers.
Getting Married In Dead Horse Point State Park
Easy-to-access views of deep canyons, cliffs, and the Colorado River
With views for miles around, Dead Horse Point State Park makes a breathtaking natural vista for your wedding. Slightly less busy than Arches and Canyonlands – getting permits, locations near park amenities, and your desired wedding date is easier. You can also bring your dog and decorations for the wedding — something that most Utah national parks don’t allow.
Getting Married In Southern Utah And Beyond
Utah has so many beautiful national parks to choose from. Here are a few other places to elope in Utah that are stunning and remote.
Getting Married In Zion National Park
Red rock formations and lush vegetation
Between the Grand Canyon and Bryce Canyon is Zion National Park, protecting the 2,000 sandstone cliffs jutting down to the valley below. With easy access from Springdale, it’s an accessible place to elope in Utah. It’s not a hidden gem, though, Zion is one of the most popular parks in Utah and the US, so be prepared for an early start for your ceremony if you want the most privacy. The red rocks, lush vegetation, river, and milder climate make for stunning adventure wedding photos year-round.
Getting Married In Bryce Canyon National Park
Surreal red rock spires vistas for miles
The less busy southern Utah park, Bryce Canyon National Park, has the highest concentration of hoodoos in one spot anywhere on earth. Its high elevation means the weather can be cool, but the road winding through the park makes some of the most striking views accessible year-round. The sci-fi-like spires of soft rock dot the horizon, and sunrise and sunset bathe the park in a whimsical glow — a stunning spot for an adventure elopement.
Getting Married In Capitol Reef
Remote red rock formations, canyons, and vegetation
For 100 miles, exposed cliffs rise to the sky in the wrinkle of earth called the Waterpocket Fold. You could explore Capitol Reef’s ruggedness for years. The park is miles away from cities — the closest traffic light is more than an hour away — great for couples who want a remote destination and aren’t afraid of an adventure on their wedding day.
How To Get Married In Utah Q & A’s
It’s probably everyone’s least favorite part about getting married – the legal stuff. Even if you’re from out of state, you’ll have to follow Utah rules for getting married. But don’t worry, during a planning consult as your Utah elopement photographer, I’ll help you figure out all the details, from the licenses and permits to the perfect Utah location and your elopement day timeline.
What do you need to get married in one of the best places to get married in Utah?
You’ll need an approved officiant, a wedding license from the courthouse, and two witnesses.
Can you get married online in Utah?
No, you must show up at the Utah courthouse with photo ID and apply for the wedding license as a couple. You’ll need your officiant’s name. There’s no waiting period between applying and getting the marriage license. So, if you’re traveling from out of state, you can do it the day before your wedding.
What permits do you need when getting married in one of these places to elope in utah?
Depending on the location you choose, special use permits may be required. National and State parks often require the couple to apply for the permit themselves. I’ll help you navigate this when I scout locations so there’s nothing unexpected.
What are some Moab wedding venues?
As an adventure elopement photographer, my favorite Moab wedding venues are in nature. Utah National Parks, State Parks, and the land surrounding it have designated wedding venues that you can (and should!) book in advance, no matter how small your elopement is going to be. I help couples pick their Moab wedding venue for parties under 15.
Are there all-inclusive elopement packages in Utah?
If you’re planning a small elopement in Utah, I can help you find your location, recommend other vendors for hair, flowers, etc., and even witness your wedding. While I’m no wedding planner, most couples have minimal planning after booking a Utah elopement package from me.
reach out today
Don’t know where to get married in Utah?
I help scout the best places to elope in Utah in or near national parks for elopements of up to 15 people.
reach out to me today by filling out the contact form
