If you’re dreaming of an elopement surrounded by otherworldly landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and endless adventure, Utah is calling you. With its five national parks, hidden slot canyons, red rock deserts, alpine lakes, and star-filled skies, Utah offers some of the most jaw-dropping elopement locations in the U.S.
Whether you want a quiet sunrise ceremony or a weekend-long hiking elopement, here are the best places to elope in Utah—plus tips to help you plan your perfect day.
🏜️ 1. Zion National Park
Zion is one of the most iconic and beloved national parks in the U.S.—and for good reason. Towering red cliffs, canyons carved by time, and soft light filtering through the sandstone create a breathtaking backdrop.
6 Locations that Allow Ceremonies:
- Temple of Sinawava
- Menu Falls
- Zion Lodge Lawn
- Nature Center North Lawn
- South Campground Amphitheater
- Kolob Canyon Area
Permit Required? Yes, $100
Vibe: Grand, adventurous, and spiritual.
Things to be aware of:
- Zion is a Very Popular Destination: You’ll likely be sharing your elopement location with dozens (if not hundreds) of tourists even on a weekday.
- Permit Rules Are Strict (and Limited): Zion has only 6 designated ceremony locations (NO EXCEPTIONS)—and many of the most popular scenic spots don’t allow weddings. Want to say your vows at on Angels Landing or Canyon Overlook, or Observation Point? Sorry, they’re not on the list. You can visit these locations for Newlywed portraits after your ceremony.
- You’ll Need to Take Park Shuttles to Visit Most of the Park: The shuttle system is required to access most parts of the park during busy seasons. That means you can’t just drive up, hop out, and elope on your own schedule. It also limits Sunrise options, because the shuttles start at 6am.
🌄 2. Arches National Park
Say your vows among natural sandstone arches, sculpted over millions of years. Arches is perfect for couples who love bold landscapes and rich desert colors.
Locations that Allow Ceremonies:
- Park Avenue
- La Sal Mountains Viewpoint
- Double Arch
- The Windows
- Panorama Point
- Devils Garden Campground Ampitheater
- Other locations will be considered on a Case-by-Case basis
Permit Required? Yes. $185
Vibe: Iconic, romantic, and a little bit surreal.
Things to be aware of:
- Arches is a Very Popular Destination: You’ll likely be sharing your elopement location with other tourists even on a weekday.
- NPS Personnel May Monitor Your Ceremony: Activities will be monitored or spot checked by NPS personnel for compliance with the terms and conditions of the permit and to ensure that no resource damage or visitor conflicts are occurring.
- Temps can be harsh: Temperatures can easily reach over 100 in the summer months and near freezing temps in the winter. Make sure to plan according.
🌌 3. Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands offers sweeping views, remote beauty, and fewer crowds than other Utah parks. If you want vast landscapes and total silence—this is your spot.
Locations that Allow Ceremonies:
- Shafer Canyon Overlook
- Green River Overlook
- Grand View Point
- Pothole Point
- Needles Group Campsites
- Other locations will be considered on a Case-by-Case basis
Permit Required? Yes— $185
Vibe: Expansive, quiet, and cinematic.
Things to be Aware of:
- NPS Personnel May Monitor Your Ceremony: Activities will be monitored or spot checked by NPS personnel for compliance with the terms and conditions of the permit and to ensure that no resource damage or visitor conflicts are occurring.
- Temps can be harsh: Temperatures can easily reach over 100 in the summer months and near freezing temps in the winter. Make sure to plan according.
🌲 4. Bonneville Salt Flats
Looking for something minimalist, ethereal, and completely unique? The Salt Flats are a dream. The vast white expanse reflects light like a mirror and creates otherworldly, editorial-style photos.
Best Time to Go: Spring and fall (summer can be scorching, and winter may bring water).
Permit Required? Not usually, unless you’re bringing in a setup or large group.
Vibe: Modern, dreamy, and endlessly chic.
Things to be Aware of:
- It can be Flooded from November to May: Which is beautiful, but just be prepared to get your feet wet.
- Avoid Speedweek: Speedweek is a very popular event for speed junkies to take supped up vehicles on the salt for their chance to break speed records. It is usually the first part of August.
- Temps can be harsh: Temperatures can easily reach over 100 in the summer months and near freezing temps in the winter. Make sure to plan according.
🏔️ 6. Wasatch Mountains & Alpine Lakes
Utah isn’t just desert. Northern Utah has alpine forests, high peaks, and mountain lakes perfect for a lush, green elopement vibe. Explore Big or Little Cottonwood Canyon, or hike to places like Lake Blanche or Cecret Lake.
Vibe: Cozy, adventurous, and a little more traditional.
Permit Required? Usually not, unless on protected land or for large groups.
Things to be Aware of:
- Altitude Sickness: If you have never experienced High Elevation, watch for the following symptoms of Altitude Sickness- Headache, Nausea, Vomiting, Fatigue & Shortness of breath. High Elevation will also affect your hydration, alcohol tolerance, and endurance. It is very manageable, just remember to take things slow and listen to your body.
- Many locations Aren’t Accessible in the Winter: Winter can last from November to May in some areas. Many trails and roads close for most of the winter.
🌅 7. Lake Powell & Glen Canyon
For a desert-meets-water vibe, Lake Powell is the ultimate hidden gem. You can elope on a houseboat, explore secret coves, or say your vows on the edge of a cliff above the Colorado River.
Vibe: Intimate, sun-soaked, and totally customizable.
Permit Required? Yes, if within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
Things to be Aware of:
- It is a Remote Area: The closest regional airports are Flagstaff or St George. You’ll have a 2 1/2 hour drive from those locations to Lake Powell. The nearest international airports are Phoenix or Las Vegas. Both are around 4-5 hours from Lake Powell.
- Plan for Hot Days in the Summer: The summer days can reach well over 100, with very little shade.
💡 Planning Tips for Your Utah Elopement
- Timing Is Everything: Summers can be brutally hot in the desert. Aim for spring or fall for the best weather and light.
- Permits: Always check local rules—especially in national/state parks or BLM land. They can change from year to year.
- Leave No Trace: Respect these wild places. Stay on trails, pack out everything, and avoid fragile surfaces. Leave only foot prints, take only photos!
- Stay Flexible: Weather, light, and access can change quickly—especially in remote places.
❤️ Final Thoughts
Utah is more than a place—it’s a feeling. It’s the rush of canyon wind through your hair, the silence of sunrise over red rocks, and the magic of committing your life to someone in a place that feels timeless.
Whether it’s just the two of you or a few close loved ones, your Utah elopement will be nothing short of extraordinary.
Need help choosing your location or connecting with local elopement pros? I’ve got you—reach out and let’s make your dream day a reality.
