Moab Elopement Guide
everything you need to plan an adventure elopement in moab
You want a fun & memorable elopement day
Just you, your person, and a place that makes you feel alive
You’ve seen your friends and family have big traditional weddings. They were fun, but you always thought to yourself ‘I would hate to be in their shoes right now." All the attention, the pressure to perform, and all the money being spent on things that will end up in the garbage. It’s not for you.
If you’d rather spend your time, money, and energy on new experiences and outdoor adventures, you’re in the right place!
how to elope in Moab
The Roadmap
1 - Reach Out to Me
We will start with a free exploration call where we can meet each other and chat about what’s possible. Then we will discuss the best time of year, and locations that will be best for your unique elopement day.
say less, i want to start planning now!
3 - Book Your Lodging and Vendors
Once you’ve got the date set in stone, get your lodging and vendors booked so we can make this vision a reality!
4 - Plan Activities & Nail Down Timeline
Now that everything is official, let’s nail down your timeline and start filling in your day with moments of fun! This is where you get to add pieces of yourself into your special day. I have included some activity ideas in Zion later on this page to give you inspiration
2 - Pick a Location and Secure Permits
You will need to apply for a permit to get married at one of the ceremony sites inside the park, or there are venue options outside of the park. I’ll get into ceremony locations, venue options, and how to apply for your wedding permit later on this page.
I'm Bri, an adventure elopement photographer, based in Utah!
wait but who are you?
I focus on creating scenic and cinematic photos. All while helping couples plan adventure elopement days where presence, adventure, and real connection are at the core.
mountain enthusiast & dog mom fueled by coffee and the thought of my next adventure
Canyonlands National Park
Dead Horse Point State Park
BLM Land
La Sal Mountains
Red Earth Venue
Where to elope in moab
There are 6 approved ceremony sites you can get married at in the park:
1. Park Avenue - Max 15 Guests
You will need a special use permit that is $185 to get married in Arches National Park. Complete this form and email it to SEUG_CommercialServices@nps.gov
2. La Sal Mountains Viewpoint - Max 50 guests
3. Double Arch - Max 25 guests
4. The Windows - Max 25 guests
5. Panorama Point - Max 50 guests
6. Devils Garden Campground Amphitheater - Max 80 guests
Where to elope in moab
Arches National Park
Dead Horse Point State Park
BLM Land
La Sal Mountains
Red Earth Venue
Locations at Island in the Sky:
1. Shafer Canyon Overlook - Max 25 guests
You will need a special use permit that is $185 to get married in Canyonlands National Park. Complete this form and email it to SEUG_CommercialServices@nps.gov
2. Green River Overlook - Max 25 guests
3. Grand View Point - Max 25 guests
1. Pothole Point - Max 15 guests
2. Needles Group Campsites
Dutch Oven: Max 50 guests
Wooden Shoe: Max 35 guests
Split Top: Max 15 guests
Locations at The Needles:
Where to elope in moab
Arches National Park
Canyonlands National Park
BLM Land
La Sal Mountains
Red Earth Venue
There are 5 designated ceremony sites:
1. La Sal Site - Max 25 guests
You need to contact the park at least 30 days prior to your elopement date to obtain your wedding permit.
2. Cliffside Site - Max 20 guests
3. West Bench Site - Max 50 guests
4. Point Bench Site - Max 5 guests
5. Shade Shelter Site - Max 100 guests
- Only available Nov-Feb and July & Aug
- Chairs permitted
Most isolated site
The cost:
$50 permit fee
$10 application fee
$100/hr site fee
How to secure a ceremony site at Dead Horse Point:
Where to elope in moab
Arches National Park
Canyonlands National Park
Dead Horse Point State Park
La Sal Mountains
Red Earth Venue
Moab is full of beautiful public land even outside the National Parks. You can find more pockets of privacy, unique locations, and your dogs can join when you elope on BLM land!
You don’t need a permit to get married on BLM land, but your photographer and any other on site vendors need a permit.
A few of the best spots to explore:
- Castle Valley
- Corona Arch
- Fisher Towers
Where to elope in moab
Arches National Park
Canyonlands National Park
Dead Horse Point State Park
BLM Land
Red Earth Venue
The most overlooked spot to get married in Moab is the La Sal National Forest, located an hour outside Moab.
Permits are not required for small weddings under 75 guests, but your photographer and any other on site vendors need a permit.
The La Sal Mountains are the second highest mountain range in Utah, with peaks as high as 13,000 feet. These mountains offer cooler temperatures in the summer, spring wildflowers, fall foliage, and more snow in the winter.
Where to elope in moab
Arches National Park
Canyonlands National Park
Dead Horse Point State Park
BLM Land
La Sal Mountains
This gorgeous glass venue is situated on 17 acres of land right in the heart of Moab, surrounded by panoramic red rock views.
- Two Ceremony Options
- Outdoor Patio Spaces
- Custom Furniture: Tables/Chairs/Ceremony Benches/Cocktail Tables
- Parking area for up to 50 cars
- A Pet-Friendly Venue
- 12 Hour Venue Rental, 10am-10pm
- Bring Your Own Catering & Bar Service
Located only 10 minutes from Arches, 20 minutes from Canyonlands, and 10 minutes from Moab Main Street - perfect for couples wanting to explore the parks and have a reception with loved ones
The BEst time of year to elope in moab
Fall has the best weather in Moab
Summer in Moab is the closest thing to hell I can imagine
Pros: lovely weather and perfect temperatures, lower tourist season so it’s easier to get into the parks
Cons: this is the most popular time to get married in Moab so you typically need to plan and get your permits further in advance, a surprise rainstorm is common in September
Pros: Warm temps (almost too warm haha), good for a sunrise elopement!
Cons: Super busy & lots of traffic! The park often hits max capacity in the morning, lodging prices are at their highest
Pros: Feels like you have the park to yourself, lower prices, the red rock is beautifully dusted with snow
Cons: It can get cold and the trails can be wet and icy after a snow storm
June, July, August
December, January, February
September, October, November
Winter has almost no crowds and the lowest lodging pricing
The best time of year to elope in Moab.. which means you’re not the only one planning around this time. I’d recommend planning at least 4-6 months in advance to secure the locations and vendors you want!
If it wasn’t for the cold and short days, winter would be the best time of year in Moab. The desert and town is serene and quiet, and there’s something enchanting about the way the snow dusts the red rocks
Spring in Moab is almost perfect
Pros: lovely weather and perfect temperatures, lower tourist crowds so it’s easier to get into the parks, desert wildflowers begin to bloom in May, low lodging prices
Cons: with Utah’s unpredictable weather you could experience a spontaneous rain or snowstorm in March or April
March, April, May
Spring is almost perfect, but you are at risk for a spring storm.. Which can honestly be magical if you’re willing to lean into the unexpected and go with the flow.
If you have to elope in the summer, choose a Sunrise ceremony, and have an indoor reception. It is always over 100 degrees, there isn’t a single cloud in the sky, you’re waiting an hour in line to get into the park, and hoping and praying you can find a parking spot.
"an elopement photographer who truly cares"
We couldn't be happier with our elopement photos! Bri captured every moment so beautifully and made us feel completely at ease throughout the day. Her calm presence, creative eye, and attention to detail gave us memories we'll cherish forever. Highly recommend to anyone looking for an elopement photographer who truly cares. Thank you for being such a special part of our day!
-Katie & Max
Let's start planning your adventure!
how to spend your adventure elopement day in Moab
Base jumping is the ultimate adventure and full body reset you may need to jump into this next chapter of your lives. Moab is home to some of the best tandem jump guides to give you a safe and thrilling experience!
Get Your Adrenaline Fix with Base Jumping
Give your feet a break after all that hiking and enjoy some peace and quiet in the desert on a guided horseback trail ride.
Experience the Desert on Horseback
Dead Horse Point has a bunch of picnic sites with fire pits where you can look at the stars and roast marshmallows.
End Your Night Around the Campfire
Stargazing
Take a 4x4 Offroading Adventure
Whether you are an experienced climber, or want to try it for the first time, Moab has something for you!
Moab is home to 3 Internationally recognized Dark Sky Parks:
- Arches NP: A few easy-to-access options include Balanced Rock Picnic Area, The Windows, Garden of Eden Viewpoint and a dedicated stargazing area at Panorama Point
- Canyonlands NP: offers ranger led night sky programs with telescopes
- Dead Horse Point State Park: You can stargaze on your own or look find a ranger led event
For beginners:
Or bring your own gear & check out one of these areas:
- Canyoneering Route at Morning Glory
- Climb in the Ice Cream Parlor
- Boulder at Big Bend Campground
You can rent a jeep and take your own adventure, or book a guided 4x4 tour!
Where to stay in moab
Hotels can book out quickly in Moab, so as soon as you've got your permit secured, it's time to book your lodging!
This 2 bed 2 bath house is a 5 minute walk from Moab main street, and offers plenty of space. With a retro/vintage styled interior and a lovely outdoor deck that overlooks the La Sal Mountains, it feels comfortable and homey.
This scenic riverfront lodge is tucked in Castle Valley and offers suites and cabins for a spacious, elevated Moab stay experience. They offer onsite activities like horseback riding, rafting, and ziplining. And it is a dog friendly lodge!
3. Hoodoo Moab
The best luxury stay with rooms, suites, and casitas for a private and spacious stay. Located just around the corner from Moab main street so you can enjoy the local food and shops! Hoodoo Moab also offers spa services so you can relax after your Moab adventure.
If you want to save money on lodging so you can spend more on activities, this is the best budget hotel in Moab. The rooms are small, but it’s right around the corner from Moab Main Street and within walking distance to all the best food in Moab.
These safari styled tents are located centrally between Arches, Canyonlands, and Dead Horse Point, and offer a unique and peaceful stay. With fire pits & nightly s’mores, picnic area and grills, morning yoga and live music, you get the ultimate desert experience at Under Canvas. Dog friendly as well!
example timelines for an adventure elopement day in Moab!
6 Hour Day - Sunset Ceremony, Campfire + Stargazing
8 Hour Day - Horseback Riding & Riverside Picnic
1pm Get Ready Together at Red Cliffs Lodge
2:30pm First Look by the river
3pm Horseback Riding in Castle Valley
5:30pm Picnic by the Colorado River
6:30pm Hike to a Nearby Overlook
7:30pm Read Vows at Sunset
9pm Coverage Ends - Good Sleep & Call it a Day!
4pm Get Ready in Moab
5pm First Look + Drive to Canyonlands NP
6pm Ceremony & Toast at Green River Overlook
8pm Setup Campfire, Roast Marshmallows & Stargaze
10pm Coverage Ends - Get Some Dinner, Good Sleep & Call it a Day!
Morning
7am Sunrise Ceremony at Double Arch
Explore Park Avenue
10am Head Into Town for Brunch
Afternoon
1pm 4x4 Jeep Tour!
4pm Head Back to Airbnb to Freshen Up & Recharge
Evening
6pm Head to Dead Horse Point
7pm Sunset Toast at Dead Horse Point
8pm Dinner and S’mores Around the Campfire
Stargaze & Try to Get Pics With the Milky Way
Full Day - Sunrise to Sunset!
Full Day
Sunrise to Sunset
Adventure
Moab elopement photography packages
moab elopement photography packages
I have packages ranging from 6 hours to 2 day coverage to fit adventures of every size!
My most booked package is the 8 Hour Package, giving us just enough time to tell the story of your Zion Elopement Day, without stress or rushing.
Full Day and Multi Day Packages available for adventures of any size!
6+ Hours Photography Coverage and Exploring the Park With Bri as Your National Park Guide
A Unique Outdoor Adventure
Your Personal Planning Guide
Permit Application
Flexible Timeline Creation
Online Photo Gallery
$5200 for everything above, and 6 hours of photography coverage
Every Moab Elopement Includes:
72 Hour Sneak Peeks
We will have 2-3 zoom calls during the planning process to discuss your vision, explore locations and activities, and build out your timeline to create a memorable adventure you’ll want to relive over and over again!
You'll receive recommendations from a local - locations I have personally scouted out and the best local vendor, lodging and food in Moab.
Your elopement photos will be delivered in an online gallery where you can view, download, and print your photos, to share and hold onto for generations.
You’re excited, I’m excited, and I won’t keep you waiting to see what we created. You’ll get sneak peek photos within 72 hours of your elopement day!
A Coffee Date to Kick Off Our Adventure
We will meet up for a casual coffee date prior to your elopement day to get out any last nerves, and kick off the adventure we'll have together!
Schedule a free consultation call!
- Marlee & Ben
"bri made us feel comfortable, and really brought out our true selves"
Bri is incredible. Her calm and caring demeanor made us feel comfortable and really brought out our true selves. And the photos exceeded our expectations! She was able to capture our love, our emotions, and the gentle and silly parts of our personalities.
She also made the daunting parts of planning a breeze with her wealth of knowledge and location expertise. Bri is the best! You won’t regret having such a caring, brilliant, and talented artist as your photographer.
moab elopement vendors
Last, but not least, the rest of the team that is going to help make your Moab elopement day a reality!!
Florists
- Baker's Bloom - local fresh florist
- Olive & Sage - the master of dried florals
- Farmyard - locally grown flowers
HMUA
- Wild Brides Backcountry
- Lexi Harker with Blushing Beauties Co.
- Beauty by Johan
Videographers
Officiants
- Ruth Lowe
- Jenn Brook at Wilde Heart Weddings
- Thomas Tobin at Outland Officiants
The BEst Food in Moab
Plenty of options for everyone, a small beer garden, and covered seating with misters to cool you down on a hot day (you can't miss the loaded quesadilla truck!)
open 11am-9pm
fun vibe, yummy smoothies for a hot day, high quality breakfast and brunch food made with real ingredients, and coffee
open 8am-2pm
A locals bar with pool tables, live music, and karaoke nights. One of the only spots in Moab open past 11pm, with a kitchen that is open until 12:30am
open 12pm-1am
The place in Moab to get pizza. They have a full bar, with a large wine selection and a covered outdoor deck that is super enjoyable all day and night. Open a little later than most places in Moab, great after a long day
open 11am-10pm
This coffee shop has it all. A variety of breakfast and lunch options. Smoothies, coffee, and ice cream for a sweet pick me up. And best of all, a cozy and inviting atmosphere with a dog-friendly patio.
open 11:30am-9pm
Antica Forma
