Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Moab, UT
Awesome! But now what?
Thinking about eloping in Moab?
Eloping in Moab is such an exciting idea, but can also feel a little overwhelming with permits, locations, and travel details to figure out.
That's where I come in! I created this guide to give you all the resources, tips and insider knowledge to help plan your dream Moab elopement with confidence!
Table of Contents
6. Ready to Plan your Moab Elopement?
5. Where to Stay for Your Moab Elopement?
4. Things to Do During Your Moab Elopement
3. Moab Laws & Permits
- Summer Elopements
- Fall Elopements
- Winter Elopements
- Spring Elopements
2. Best Time of Year to Elope in Moab
1. Best Places to Elope in Moab
Best Places to Elope in Moab
With its towering red rock formations, sweeping canyon views, and endless desert landscapes, it’s no surprise that Moab has become one of the most sought-after places to elope in the Southwest. Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate sunrise ceremony beneath a sandstone arch or a secluded overlook with nothing but red cliffs surrounding you, there’s no shortage of incredible locations to choose from.
As a Moab elopement photographer, one of the most common questions I get is, “Where should we elope?” The answer depends on the experience you’re hoping to have. Some couples want the iconic scenery of Arches National Park, while others prefer the privacy of BLM land or the dramatic overlooks found in Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park.
Below, I’ll walk you through the four best places to elope in Moab, including what makes each location unique, who it’s best suited for, and what you should know before making your decision. If you’re just starting to plan your adventure, be sure to check out my guide on how to elope in Moab, where I cover permits, timelines, and everything else you need to know before saying “I do.”
Arches National Park
Canyonlands National Park
Dead Horse Point State Park
BLM Land
If you’ve been dreaming of saying your vows beneath towering sandstone arches, Arches National Park is one of the most iconic places to elope in Moab. Home to more than 2,000 natural stone arches, this national park offers unforgettable scenery around every corner. Popular areas like Park Avenue, Double Arch, The Windows, Balanced Rock, and Devil’s Garden each provide their own unique backdrop for portraits and intimate ceremonies.
Arches is best for couples who want the classic Moab experience, but it’s also the busiest location. A Special Use Permit is required for ceremonies, and during much of the year, visitors also need a timed entry reservation to enter the park. Planning your ceremony around sunrise or on a weekday can help you enjoy a quieter experience.
Best for: Iconic red rock scenery, first-time visitors, and adventurous couples.
If dramatic overlooks and sweeping canyon views are more your style, Canyonlands National Park is an incredible alternative. Instead of sandstone arches, you’ll find massive cliffs, winding canyons, and panoramic viewpoints that stretch for miles. The scenery feels wild, expansive, and far less crowded than many areas of Arches.
Canyonlands is perfect for couples who want breathtaking views without the busier atmosphere. Whether you’re planning a sunrise adventure or a sunset ceremony, this park offers some of the most unforgettable landscapes in southeastern Utah.
Best for: Epic canyon views, quieter ceremonies, and couples looking for a more secluded experience.
Just outside of Moab, Dead Horse Point State Park is famous for its jaw-dropping overlooks of the Colorado River nearly 2,000 feet below. It’s one of the most accessible scenic locations in the area, making it an excellent option for couples who want incredible views without a long hike.
The park is especially beautiful during golden hour, when the canyon walls glow with warm shades of orange and red. If you’re looking for dramatic scenery that’s easy to reach, Dead Horse Point deserves a spot at the top of your list.
Best for: Accessible viewpoints, stunning sunsets, and panoramic Colorado River views.
Some of the most beautiful Moab elopement locations aren’t found inside a national or state park at all. The surrounding Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land offers endless opportunities for couples who want a more private and personalized experience. From towering red rock cliffs and slickrock landscapes to hidden desert viewpoints, these locations provide incredible scenery without the crowds found in the parks.
BLM land is often my favorite recommendation for couples who value flexibility and adventure. Many areas are dog-friendly, there’s no timed entry system, and you can often enjoy a much more intimate experience. Because every BLM location is different, permit requirements and accessibility can vary, but they’re well worth considering if privacy is one of your top priorities.
Best for: Privacy, adventure, dog-friendly elopements, and avoiding crowds.
Best time of year to elope in Moab
Spring Elopements
Summer Elopements
Fall Elopements
Winter Elopements
If I had to choose, I'd recommend spring or fall every single time. The temperatures are comfortable enough to actually enjoy your day, the lighting is incredible for photos, and you can spend hours exploring without worrying about the extreme summer heat. Whether we are hiking to an overlook for sunrise or chasing golden light through the red rocks at sunset, these seasons give the best chance for an unforgettable and stress-free adventure.
Spring is one of the best times to experience a Moab elopement, with comfortable temperatures and ideal conditions for exploring the desert. The mild weather makes it perfect for hiking to viewpoints, adventuring through red rock landscapes, and spending more of your day outdoors. Spring is a popular season in Moab, so planning around sunrise and less crowded locations can create a more intimate experience.
Summer in Moab brings long days, incredible sunsets, and plenty of time for adventure, but the desert heat can be intense. Couples planning a summer elopement should consider early morning or evening timelines to avoid the hottest parts of the day while still enjoying the incredible landscapes Moab has to offer.
Fall is my favorite time for Moab elopements. With cooler temperatures, softer desert light, and comfortable conditions for hiking and exploring, it’s the perfect season for couples who want a full adventure experience. From sunrise views to sunset portraits, fall allows you to slow down and truly enjoy your day.
Winter offers a peaceful and less crowded experience in Moab, making it a great option for couples who want more privacy. Cooler temperatures, dramatic skies, and occasional snow on the surrounding red rocks create a unique and unforgettable backdrop for an adventurous elopement.
My personal favorite time to elope in moab!
Moab Elopement Laws & Permits
Do you need a permit to elope in Moab?
The short answer: It depends on where you’re eloping.
Unlike some national parks, “Moab” isn’t one single location. Most couples choose to elope in Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Dead Horse Point State Park, or on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land—and each has its own permit requirements, guest limits, and ceremony rules.
The good news? You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. As your Moab elopement photographer, I’ll help you determine exactly which permits you’ll need, point you toward the correct applications, and make sure your plans follow local regulations so your day stays stress-free.
Select your ceremony location below to learn about its permit requirements.
Do you need a permit?
Yes! Any wedding ceremony or vow exchange held inside Arches National Park requires a Special Use Permit, regardless of whether you have guests.
The park only allows ceremonies at approved locations, each with its own guest limit and regulations. Decorations, drones, amplified music, and leaving designated trails are prohibited to help protect the park’s fragile desert ecosystem.
Timed Entry Reservations:
Timed entry reservations have been discontinued for 2026.
Because these requirements can change from year to year, I’ll help you understand exactly what applies to your elopement date.
Do you need a permit?
Yes! Wedding ceremonies in Canyonlands National Park require a Special Use Permit.
Ceremonies are limited to designated locations, each with specific guest capacities. Couples should expect to follow Leave No Trace principles by staying on established trails, avoiding decorations, and respecting the park’s natural landscape.
If Canyonlands is your dream location, I’ll help you choose the ceremony site that best fits your vision while making sure everything complies with park regulations.
Do you need a permit?
Yes. Dead Horse Point State Park requires a Special Use Permit for wedding ceremonies and elopements.
Since this is a Utah State Park rather than a National Park, the permit process is slightly different. Requirements may vary depending on your ceremony location, group size, and planned activities.
The breathtaking canyon overlooks make this one of my favorite places for sunset ceremonies, and I’ll help guide you through the permit process from start to finish.
Do you need a permit?
Sometimes.
Many of Moab’s incredible desert locations are located on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land. In many cases, small elopements don’t require a ceremony permit, but larger groups, commercial activities, or certain protected areas may.
Since every BLM location has different regulations, it’s important to verify permit requirements before making plans.
This is one of the reasons I help every couple choose a ceremony location, I’ll make sure you’re selecting a spot that’s both stunning and legally permitted for your elopement.
Things to Do During Your Moab Elopement
What happens during your Moab elopement?
Your Moab elopement doesn’t have to be limited to a ceremony and portraits. One of the best parts about choosing Moab is that your entire day can be an adventure. From exploring red rock landscapes to slowing down and taking in the views together, there are endless ways to create a meaningful experience beyond just exchanging vows.
Whether you want to watch the sunrise from a scenic overlook, hike through iconic desert landscapes, explore the area on a Jeep adventure, or end your evening stargazing beneath Utah’s incredible night sky, Moab offers countless opportunities to make your elopement day feel unforgettable.
Some of my favorite Moab elopement experiences include:
✨ Sunrise hikes and scenic overlooks
✨ Jeep adventures through the desert
✨ Private picnics surrounded by red rock views
✨ Exploring nearby trails and hidden landscapes
✨ Scenic drives through Utah’s incredible terrain
✨ Paddleboarding or relaxing along the Colorado River
✨ Stargazing under some of the darkest skies in the country
The sky is the limit. Some couples add in adventurous hiking, while some keep it simple with a cozy picnic. Your elopement is all about creating a day that feels true to you.
Where to Stay for Your Moab Elopement?
Choosing the right place to stay can become part of your Moab elopement experience. Staying close to the action allows you to spend less time driving and more time exploring the incredible landscapes that make this destination so special.
Many couples choose to stay in the town of Moab for convenient access to restaurants, shops, and nearby parks like Arches and Canyonlands. Others prefer a more private experience with a cozy Airbnb, desert cabin, or unique glamping accommodation surrounded by the beauty of Utah’s landscape.
When choosing your lodging, consider your elopement timeline, the locations you want to explore, and whether you want easy access to the parks or a more secluded desert escape. The right location can help your entire Moab experience feel relaxed, intentional, and memorable.
Ready to plan your Moab Elopement?
Planning a Moab elopement is about creating a day that feels authentic to your relationship and the adventure you want to have together. From choosing the perfect location to building a timeline around the best light, I help couples create a stress-free experience that allows them to fully enjoy every moment of their day.
As a Moab elopement photographer, I’m here to help you plan an intentional adventure, capture the incredible landscapes around you, and preserve the moments that make your Moab elopement completely unique.
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