The Ultimate Guide on How to Elope in Moab

Moab. I genuinely don’t know where to start with how much I love this place!

This popular little desert town somehow manages to Have. It. All. Between the red rock landscapes, the quirky local culture, and the sheer number of ways you can experience the outdoors here, Moab really has something for everyone. Hardcore adventurer? Check. Nature lover but still want a comfy bed and a good meal? Also check.

So if you’re wondering how to elope in Moab – hi, you’re in the right place. I got you.

I’ve documented a lot of elopements here, and I know what actually makes a Moab elopement feel both meaningful and genuinely fun (instead of stressful or overcomplicated). In this guide, I’ll walk you through my favorite places to elope in Moab, important permit info, and how to create an experience that feels like peak existence.

Why Should I Choose to Elope in Moab?

Look. Moab is one of my favorite places on Earth, and I am extremely biased and completely unapologetic about it.

The landscape here is vast, dramatic, and bursting with color. You’ve got towering red rock formations under clear blue skies, the Colorado River winding through the desert, and the La Sal Mountains (which are snow-capped in the winter!) rising up over 12,700 feet tall. The city is home to two of Utah’s five National Parks, plus a ton of underrated state parks and expansive BLM land.

This all means that there are endless ways to build an elopement experience that actually fits you.

If you want an all‑day adventure wandering through the desert, we can explore the countless hiking, backpacking, and OHV trails. Looking for an adrenaline rush? Moab is famous for world‑class rock climbing, canyoneering, and BASE jumping. And for something more adventure-adjacent, you can float the river, take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise, or explore scenic overlooks without breaking a sweat.

Honestly, you could spend a lifetime exploring Moab and still not see everything.

Outside of all the adventure opportunities, the town itself makes a great home base for your elopement. There’s a ton of accommodations, from budget‑friendly stays to luxurious desert retreats, plus great restaurants, cute shops, and spas for a little post‑adventure recovery. There’s also an incredible community of local wedding vendors who know this place inside and out and love helping couples bring their vision to life.

If you care about making your elopement an experience filled with freedom and connection, then Moab is one of the best places you could elope.

When is the Best Time to Elope in Moab?

Seasonal Considerations

Every season in Moab has its own vibe, quirks, and energy. Knowing what to expect ahead of time helps you plan a day that actually feels good.

Spring and fall are my personal favorite seasons to elope in Moab. These seasons (roughly March to May and September to November) offer milder temperatures that make spending long days outside way more enjoyable. It can get busy, especially during Jeep Week (it’s the week before Easter, which you’ll want to avoid), but because I spend so much time here, I can help you find quieter, more private spots even during peak season.

Summer in Moab is hot‑hot. Like upper‑90s‑to‑100s *cue turning up your car’s A.C.* Even sunset temperatures can be pretty intense. If you’re set on a summer elopement, sunrise is the way to go. As a bonus, there are way fewer people during this time of day, especially at popular spots. 

Winter is underrated. A winter elopement in Moab can be chilly, but you might also get lucky with snow. Winter is the quietest season in Moab and fewer crowds mean easier access to places that are usually packed. This is one of the reasons I secretly love winter elopements here. If you choose this season, keep in mind that special use permits aren’t issued during holidays, so it’s best to avoid those dates.

Choosing the Right Time of Day

When it comes to timing your actual elopement, sunrise and sunset are where the magic lives.

The light is softer, the colors are incredible, and the desert just feels more alive. Midday sun can be harsh, and there isn’t a ton of shade in most locations. Sunrise is especially great for visiting popular spots that tend to fill up later in the day.

If the midday temps are brutal (like in the summer), a lot of couples choose to split their coverage, with half at sunrise and the other half at sunset. That way, you get more variety, better light, cooler temperatures, and way fewer people wandering through your vows.

And one more pro tip. I always recommend a weekday elopement if you can swing it. You’ll have the best chance at a quieter, more intimate experience.

Feeling excited already? Same. Let’s start dreaming up your Moab elopement.

What Are the Best Places to Elope in Moab?

Now that we know when the light’s perfect and what each season brings, let’s talk about the best part – where your elopement magic can happen! Between National Parks, State Parks, and BLM land, there are tons of surreal places to elope in Moab. Below is a glimpse at my favorites, but I’ve got lots more I’d love to share, so reach out if you’re interested! 

Arches National Park

Arches is the smaller of Moab’s two National Parks, but it absolutely delivers. One of the things I freaking love about this park is that you can walk right up to many of the arches, which makes for some truly iconic photos, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Pro tip: If you’re set on eloping here during peak season, sunrise is your best friend for privacy.

Arches has also recently implemented a timed‑entry system during certain times of the year to help protect the park. Reservations are typically required between 7 am and 4 pm during the spring and fall seasons. That said, if you get a special use permit, a timed-entry reservation isn’t required. Learn more specifics on the national park timed entry reservation page here.

If Arches is calling your name, check out this elopement for more inspiration. You can also dive deeper into my full planning guide on how to elope in Arches National Park here.

Canyonlands National Park

Canyonlands National Park tends to fly under the radar (mostly because Arches steals the spotlight). But honestly? It’s equally stunning, if not better.

The park is sprawling, rugged, and dramatic in a way that makes you feel small and in awe of the vastness of nature. I’m especially obsessed with the contrast between the deep canyons and the towering La Sal Mountains on the horizon. It’s larger and generally less crowded than Arches, which makes it an amazing option if privacy is high on your list. Here are a few Canyonlands elopements I’ve had the honor of photographing.

Romantic and Rainy Moab Micro Wedding

Colorful Canyonlands National Park Wedding

Fun Moab Elopement with Epic Cake Smash

Dead Horse Point State Park

Dead Horse Point State Park offers absolutely unbelievable canyon views that’ll have your jaw on the floor. The vistas here look out over dramatic goosenecks of the Colorado River, with viewpoints facing both east and west. This means sunrise and sunset are equally incredible. Dogs are also welcome in this area of Moab as long as they’re on leash. If you’re looking to include your pup in the celebration, I highly recommend this Moab elopement location.

Is Dead Horse Point State Park calling your nam? See these couples celebrations in this state park below.

Dreamy Dead Horse Point Wedding

Desert Elopement Featuring Sunset at Dead Horse Point State Park

Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Lands

BLM land is often overlooked, but it’s home to some of the most expansive and rugged landscapes around Moab. There are typically fewer people and a lot more freedom, which makes it perfect if you’re craving a true adventure‑forward elopement.

It’s important to note that your photographer needs to be properly permitted to work on BLM land. Luckily, I happen to have one of these coveted permits, and I’ll help make sure everything is handled smoothly.

For a look at what your BLM elopement can look like, check out these elopement stories below. 

Full Day Elopement on Moab’s BLM Land

Rock Climbing Wedding in the Desert

Elopement in the Red Rocks of Moab

Castle Valley

Castle Valley technically falls under BLM land, but it’s so stunning it deserves its own shout‑out. It’s got the Colorado River on one side and the La Sal Mountains on the other, but the true highlight is the towering red rock formations. It’s one of my absolute favorite places to elope in Moab, especially if you’re dreaming of epic views paired with unique lodging options.

If you love these desert ceremony destinations, check out some of my other favorite desert elopement locations.

What Does it Typically Look Like to Elope in Moab?

Once you’ve picked your elopement destination, it’s time to start getting stoked for your day. One of the best parts about eloping in Moab is that you get to throw out the rulebook and build a day that actually feels like you. Here are a few places to start to help bring that vision to life.

Transporation

Moab is a teeny desert town, which is part of its charm, but also means transportation options are pretty limited. There is a small airport right in Moab, but flights tend to be pricey and pretty limited. Most couples fly into Salt Lake City and make the roughly four-hour drive south. If you want to shave off a little drive time, flying into Grand Junction, Colorado is another solid option and usually saves you a couple of hours on the road.

When it comes to renting a car, you definitely should look for something with four-wheel drive. Jeeps are everywhere in Moab for a reason, and they’re perfect if your elopement plans include dirt roads, off-roading, or getting to some of those tucked-away desert locations that make this place so special.

Lodging

Moab has a wide range of lodging options. For something luxurious, Sorrel River Ranch offers riverfront views, great dining, and a spa.

If you’re leaning more adventure‑forward, Under Canvas gives you glamping vibes with hotel‑level comfort and unreal night skies.

There are also some incredible Airbnbs that make perfect home bases for your desert adventures.

Activities and Excursions 

One of my favorite things about eloping is how much freedom it gives you. Outside of a little planning around light and timing (sunrise and sunset really are the sweet spots), your day gets to unfold in a way that actually feels like you. Instead of rushing from place to place, you can fill your elopement with any experience you can dream up. I love brainstorming this part together (you can see more of my favorite ideas here), but here are a few to get you started that happen to be perfect for elopements in Moab.

• Rock Climbing
• Off-Roading
• Riding a Hot Air Balloon
• Mountain Biking
• White Water Rafting
• Fishing
• Horseback Riding
• Hiking
• Doing Yoga Together

The thing about eloping is, if you can dream it up, we can probably make it happen. When you’re read to get started, let’s plan an experience that you’ll remember forever. 

What Permits and Licenses do I need to Elope in Moab?

I know, I know. This part of the Moab elopement planning process is definitely not glamorous. Still, it’s super important that you get all your paperwork squared away so you can enjoy your time without any last-minute problems or surprises. 

Entrance Fees

Depending on where and how you choose to elope in Moab, there may be an entrance fee to factor in. Most Utah state parks charge $20 per vehicle, while Arches and Canyonlands National Parks require a $30 per vehicle entrance fee.

Marriage License

Utah keeps things nice and simple when it comes to marriage licenses. There’s no waiting period, which means you can grab your license and get married the very same day if you want to. Your license is valid for 32 days, so you’ll just want to keep that window in mind as you plan.

In Grand County, the application fee is $50, and you and your partner will need to bring a government-issued ID with you when you apply. You can find the most up-to-date info as well as the application on the Grand County marriage license website.

You’ll also need an officiant and two witnesses present during the ceremony. I’m always happy to be one of your witnesses, along with your vendors, guests, or even a friendly hiker who happens to be passing by. Once that paperwork is signed, you’re officially married! 

Permits

We’re almost done with the logistics, I promise. There’s just one more quick thing about permits, and then we can get back to dreaming up the good stuff! Permits can feel like the least fun part of eloping in Moab, but they’re important for protecting these incredible places.

If you’re eloping in Arches or Canyonlands National Park, you’ll need a wedding permit, which costs $185. They’re issued for one hour and allow ceremonies only in designated areas within each park. The application process is similar for both parks, and you can apply up to a year in advance, so it’s best to get on it instead of waiting until the last minute. 

Dead Horse Point State Park also requires a special use permit for elopements within the park. There’s a $100 application fee plus a $50 permit fee, and applications should be submitted at least 30 days in advance. You can find more details on their special use permit page.

If you’re eloping on BLM land, you and your photographer might need a permit as well. I’m fully permitted and familiar with these requirements, so you don’t need to worry about navigating that on your own. If you want to know a little more about what’s required, you can contact the BLM’s Moab Field Office. 

Hire A Photographer That Specializes in Moab Elopements (Hi, its Me!)

Moab genuinely is my second home.

I live in the Southwest and spend two to three months here every single year, and I’ve been documenting elopements in Moab since 2020. I know this place like the back of my hand, including the quiet pull-offs and hidden gems that most people miss.

I’m super familiar with the permitting process here, too, which can get overwhelming fast. A big part of my job is taking that entire layer of stress off your plate. I help you navigate where you can go, when you can be there, how to avoid crowds, and how to build a day that flows naturally instead of feeling rushed or over-structured. (You can read more about my elopement process in this article published by the Los Angeles Times!) Think of me as your ultimate Moab tour guide and elopement photographer. 

But more than logistics or local knowledge, I care most about how your elopement feels.

I’m there to support you, cheer you on, help you slow down when things feel big. I’ll be with you each step of the way to document your day as it actually unfolds. Not as a performance. Just the honest, real version of your experience as it happens.

Truly, if I could photograph elopements in Moab for the rest of my life, I absolutely would. This place has my whole elopement-loving heart!

Moab Elopement Packages 

Something I won’t ever stop reiterating is that choosing a Moab elopement photographer (or any elopement photographer for that matter) isn’t just about hours or deliverables. It’s about having someone in your corner who actually cares about your experience and is invested in helping you build a day that feels aligned from start to finish.

When you book an elopement with me in Moab, there are no hidden costs or surprise travel fees. Just the package price listed below, plus sales tax. Simple, transparent, and low-stress.

Every elopement package includes:

• A comprehensive elopement planning guide so you’re never left wondering what comes next or feeling overwhelmed by the process
• Unlimited planning support (and yes, I really mean unlimited). Location help, permits, timelines, vendor recs, packing lists, backup plans, hype texts – all of it
• Customized location recommendations around Moab based on what actually matters to you – privacy, accessibility, adventure level, season, and overall vibes
• A thoughtfully built elopement timeline that gives you space to breathe, explore, and actually be present instead of rushing from one thing to the next
• A high-resolution online gallery with full printing rights – print them big, hang them everywhere, relive the day as loudly as you want
• All of my travel expenses included, because surprise fees are not the vibe

At the end of the day, this isn’t just about photos. It’s about having support, guidance, and someone who genuinely wants your elopement to feel good while you’re living it.

I offer a range of Moab elopement packages starting at 4 hours and going all the way up to two full days exploring the desert together. If you want to dive into what’s included in each option, you can find all the details on my elopement packages page.

I typically book out about a year in advance, but I’m always open to last-minute elopements if availability allows. If Moab is calling and the timing feels right, let’s talk.

Blog post written by Sonder Studio