Moab Elopement Location Guide
Moab Utah Elopement Location Guide - Your guide to The best Elopement spots
Imagine this: red rocks and canyons stretching as far as the eye can see as you say your vows, countless canyons waiting to be explored, and the most incredible sunsets painting the sky in shades of orange and pink. The perfect desert Elopement wedding destination. That’s Moab in a nutshell – but trust me, there’s so much more to discover.
If you’re dreaming of an elopement that’s equal parts breathtaking, fun, and totally you, then buckle up because we’re about to dive into one of my favorite spots on earth – Moab, Utah.
Moab has something for every spirit—whether you’re into rock climbing, off-roading in a Jeep, floating down the Colorado River, or just love wanderlust and sunsets.
And the best part? You can say “I do” right in the middle of all this natural beauty, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Moab is adventure elopement heaven.
I love an adventure, and Moab combines the best of outdoor thrills and spots for jaw-dropping pictures. Let’s pull back the curtain on this incredible place to get eloped and see if we can’t find the perfect spot for your special moment.
What Are The Top Elopement Locations in Moab?
While nearly any spot in Moab is perfect for an elopement, there are a few places that offer a truly unforgettable experience. Here are my top spots to consider for Moab elopements:
Canyonlands National Park
At the top of my list is Canyonlands – and for good reason. Canyonlands National Park is located beyond Dead Horse Point State Park, if you’re coming from Moab.
The park allows elopements in specific locations within the Island in the Sky region. Canyonlands offers a vast array of natural wonders, including countless canyons and the Colorado River, which divides the park into four distinct districts: Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and the rivers. Canyonlands National Park does require a permit for elopements.
My favorite part of the Canyonlands is the sheer number of ways to explore (making for a pretty incredible pre and post-elopement adventure. If you want to have a horseback elopement adventure SIGN ME UP!
- By car
- Biking
- Boating
- Camping
- Climbing
- Guided tours
- Hiking
- Horseback riding
- Stargazing
The Canyonlands is perfect for the couple that wants:
- A breathtaking and diverse landscape for their elopement
- Numerous outdoor activities to enjoy together
- Unforgettable memories amidst the grandeur of nature
Arches National Park
Arches National Park is often mentioned in the same breath as Moab, and for good reason. The park is home to over 2,000 sandstone arches, giant rock formations, and some of the most otherworldly geological features in the world.
Simply driving through the park will make you question if you’re still on Earth. Arches National Park is also home to the world’s most popular arch, Delicate Arch.
With 1.5 million visitors per year, planning your elopement for early morning or evening is crucial to avoid crowds. Fortunately, sunrise and sunset are the best times for stunning couple portraits. Remember that Arches has a timed entry reservation system from April to October. Arches does require a permit for elopements and is a bit more restrictive than the other parks when it comes to rules for your elopement ceremony.
Note: You’ll need to go online to reserve your entry between 7:00 am and 4:00 pm. (But I can handle that for you!)
Arches is perfect for the couple that wants:
- A unique and iconic landscape for their elopement photos
- To exchange vows amidst the beauty of ancient sandstone arches
- A chance to explore otherworldly geological formations together
- A romantic sunrise or sunset ceremony in a breathtaking setting
Deadhorse Point State Park
Dead Horse Point State Park is a hidden gem, less crowded than other parks in the area and only a 30-minute drive from downtown Moab. This is definitely my favorite park for Moab Elopements. The park offers breathtaking views of the canyons overlooking the Colorado River, making it one of my favorite red rock elopement locations in Moab. The stunning vistas provide a perfect backdrop for your desert elopement. This park also requires a special use permit for Elopement ceremonies.
The campgrounds at Dead Horse Point State Park feature modern amenities, including unique yurts for a memorable stay. The spectacular views are just a short walk from the parking lot, making it an ideal spot for any guests with mobility issues attending your elopement.
For hiking enthusiasts, the Rim Loop Trail is an 8-mile hike that takes approximately 3.5 hours to complete. The visitor center is conveniently located close to the trail, providing a perfect spot to take a break.
Fun fact: Dead Horse Point State Park has been featured in several films, including a scene from Thelma and Louise and a scene from Mission Impossible starring Tom Cruise!
Dead Horse Point State Park is perfect for the couple that wants:
- A less crowded, intimate elopement location with stunning red rock views
- Accessible ceremony sites for guests with mobility issues
- Unique accommodation options, like staying in a yurt
- Opportunities for hiking and exploring the park’s natural beauty
Manti-La Sal National Forest
Manti-La Sal National Forest, home to the La Sal Mountains, is a hidden gem just 20 miles south of Moab. These alpine mountains are the second-highest mountain range in Utah, reaching nearly 13,000 feet in elevation.
Why did I add Manti-La Sal to the list? The beauty of the pines and brooks in this secluded—almost secret—spot makes it perfect for an elopement in Moab. Plus, The La Sal Mountains provide incredible trout fishing opportunities in several stunning lakes and streams throughout the area. (If you know me, you know fishing is a priority!)
Perfect for the couple that wants:
- A diverse landscape for their elopement, combining red rock desert with alpine mountains
- Opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and fishing
- A serene, forested setting for their elopement photos
- A chance to escape the crowds and enjoy a more private elopement experience
Bureau of Land Management (BLM land) offers many amazing spots that are outside of the Parks. This land can offer more privacy than the parks. Permits are required and are only offered twice a year by the BLM office.
Do I Need Permits For An Elopement In Moab?
Permits are necessary for most places to get married. However, don’t let this stress you out!
As your elopement guide and photographer, I have all the information you need and will make the process super simple for you. I’ll guide you through the permit requirements and help you navigate the process, ensuring that your elopement goes smoothly and you can focus on enjoying your special day.
Marriage license?
\Moab is in Grand County Utah, where I call home. To apply for your marriage license, you and your partner need to go to the county clerk office where you will pay a $30 fee which comes with a copy of your marriage license. The process is super simple. You both do need to present a current ID when you go to the clerk’s office. On the application you need to include the date of your Moab Elopement ceremony and the name of your officiant. You can fill out your application online before arriving in Moab but make sure you don’t sign until you are in the clerk’s office.
Let Me Help Bring Your Moab Elopement to Life!
So, are you ready for an unforgettable elopement experience? Plan your special day with Elevated Elopement Experiences!
As an experienced elopement photographer, I specialize in creating epic and elevated elopement experiences beyond just capturing beautiful photos. I carefully curate each experience to give you the freedom to enjoy, let loose, have fun, and connect with each other in stunning settings that only a local would know about.
Planning is something I genuinely enjoy doing, and I’ll work with you to create a trip itinerary that leaves room for spontaneous fun while ensuring everything runs smoothly. Best of all, I’ll handle all the details – including permit requirements, so you can focus on enjoying your special day without any stress or worry.
If you’re ready to shake off expectations and embark on the adventure of a lifetime, contact me to start planning your epic Moab elopement experience. Let’s dream it up together and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Pin
Leave a Reply
Previous Story
next Story
Give me a little bit of info and I will create a custom Elopement package for you!
