Everything you need to know about eloping in Moab Utah
So you want to Elope in Moab Utah?! Makes sense.. With two National Parks, 1 State Park, and endless miles of BLM Land Moab makes for a great choice to celebrate your love. Whether you love red rocks, massive arches, or crazy cliffs sides with views like no other Moab might quickly become your top destination for your big day.
As a Moab Wedding Photographer I'm here to answer all your questions about Moab. In today's blog post we'll go over the following:
BEST TIME OF YEAR TO ELOPE IN MOAB
MOAB ELOPEMENT LOCATION GUIDE
WHERE TO STAY IN MOAB
ELOPEMENT DAY ADVENTURE IDEAS
So what are we waiting for? Let's dive in to the start of planning your dream Elopement in Moab!
BEST TIME OF YEAR TO ELOPE IN MOAB
Honestly, Moab is just one of those places that's magical all year around, but if I had to choose the best time of year to visit is late Spring and Fall. Here are some things to consider for each season in Moab:
Winter - Nothing beats the red rocks in Moab covered with a dusting of snow, but be prepared for those cold desert temps (added bonus less crowds!)
Spring - Early spring can bring rainy days (not super often) with cooler mornings / evenings, but it's prime time at the end of spring right before the summer temps hit!
Summer - Glorious sunsets and adventures to be had, but it does get very hot in July-August. This is when we like to escape to the La Sal Mountains; you know the ones you see in the distance from town? They are amazing!
Fall - Finally the summer heat is moving away and the cooler temps start to move in and it's just an incredible time to experience the desert!
Can you believe this location below is in Moab?!
MOAB ELOPEMENT LOCATION GUIDE
Moab is like a wedding destination dream come true - if there's any downside it's that there's *almost too many locations to choose from... I said almost! That's what you get with 2 National Parks, 1 State Park, and 1.8 million acres of BLM land. Don't worry though, I gotchu! I'm going to go over the "basics" of areas you can legally say "I DO" and try to answer any questions you may have about the different locations below...
Arches National Park
Arches National Park Elopement Ceremony Locations:
The La Sal Mountains Viewpoint (up to 50 people)
The Windows Section (up to 25 people)
Double Arch (up to 25 people)
Park Avenue (up to 15 people)
Devil’s Garden Campground Amphitheater (up to 80 people)
Panorama Point (up to 50 people)
Here's a little Q&A for anyone interested in Eloping in Arches National Park:
Q: Do I need a permit and how much does it cost?
A: Yes and the cost to for the permitting is $185
Q: How far in advance should I apply for a permit?
A: You can apply up to one year in advance. The minimum is 4 weeks - but don't wait till the last minute!
Q: There are so many locations how do I choose?!
A: That's where I come in handy! I'm here to walk you thru each location to see which one will be best for your elopement.
Q: If we choose one location for our Ceremony can we still take photos at another location?
A: Absolutely yes! And I Highly recommend it
To learn more about the logistics, rules, and more visit Arches NPS website
Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park Ceremony Locations:
Grand View Point
Green River Overlook
Shafer Canyon Overlook
Group sizes are limited to 25 people in all three locations
Let's answer those questions!
Q&A for Eloping in Canyonlands National Park:
Q: Do I need a permit and how much does it cost?
A: Yes and the cost to for the permitting is $185 (same price as Arches)
Q: Can I arrange to have chairs set up for my guests?
A: That is on a case-to-case basis and you can contact to park to find out for sure!
Q: Is my dog allowed at my Elopement?
A: Unfortunately not in Canyonlands, but you could consider Dead Horse Point as a option (see the next location)
To learn more about the logistics, rules, and more visit Canyonlands NPS website
Dead Horse Point State Park
Dead Horse Point State Park Ceremony Locations:
Shade Shelter Site (up to 100 people)
Cliff Side Site (up to 20 people)
Point Bench Site (up to 5 people)
West Bench Site (up to 50 people)
La Sal Site (up to 25 people)
Q&A for Eloping at Dead Horse Point State Park:
Q: Do I need a permit and how much does it cost?
A: Yes! The cost of your permit is determined by your group size and time spent at the park. The average cost is between $150 - $300 (plus your entrance fee to the park which is $20 per car)
Q: How far in advance should I plan my wedding?
A: The park recommends at least 30 days in advance, but as always earlier is better.
Q: Is my dog allowed at my Elopement?
A: From their website: "Only domestic dogs are allowed at the wedding locations and all park regulations for dogs apply"
Want to learn more about Eloping at Dead Horse Point State Park? Check out their "Wedding Packet" HERE
Moab BLM Land
There are many places where you can legally get married on BLM (with a permit of course), but for the sake of keeping the BLM land protected I ask that if you’re seriously interested in Eloping on BLM land you reach out to me and we can discuss these locations privately. I am very familiar with the different areas, permitting process, and honestly LOVE many of the locations provided by the BLM. Particularly for all my dog loving couples - who want to include their dog in their wedding day, BLM Land might be a great choice for you!
THE RED EARTH VENUE
Red Earth is the best of both worlds! If you're dreaming of an intimate wedding with your loved ones this might be the best option for you. Red Earth has 2 options - you can book their desert platform, glass indoor / outdoor venue or both!
More about the venue "Red Earth is like renting your own private national park. Surrounded by red rock cliffs, native desert vegetation, big views, and endless recreation in Moab, Utah. You won’t find anything more fitting for the event of a lifetime. Located on 17 acres in the heart of canyon country. The Red Earth Venue is surrounded by open views. 10 minutes from Moab and a short drive to Arches, Canyonlands, Deadhorse Point, and more."
WHERE TO STAY IN MOAB
Luxury: Sorrel River Ranch
Adventure + Luxury: Under Canvas Moab or Ulum Resorts
Escape to the Mountains: Whispering Oaks Ranch
ELOPEMENT DAY ADVENTURE IDEAS
Not sure what to do on your Elopement day or during your stay in Moab?! Moab is literally like a giant playground for adults - there are so many outdoor actives to enjoy and all while in a jaw dropping setting. Here are some ideas to include while you're visiting:
Hiking or backpacking in Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park and thousands of square miles and national forest lands surround Moab.
Mountain Biking
Jeeping
Camping in the La Sal Mountains
Kayaking on the Colorado River
Skydiving (for those who are truly adventurous!)
Slacklining / Highlining *Fun Fact: The world record for long highlines was performed in Moab
What to know more about Eloping in Moab?
Head over to my CONTACT PAGE and let's start planning your dream elopement!
I have photography permits with both the BLM and Dead Horse Point State Park. In addition to your wedding permit these locations require the photographer to have a separate permit.
