5 Best Places to Elope in Moab

If you’re looking for the best places to elope in Moab, you’re in the right place. I seriously cannot get over how much I LOVE this area. It’s packed with some of the most UNREAL desert landscapes you’ll ever see. Think towering red rock formations, sweeping canyon views, and (in some places) snow-capped mountains in the distance. It’s honestly kind of ridiculous how much beauty is concentrated in one place.

In this area, there’s no shortage of incredible locations to choose from. You’ve got the iconic spots like Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. There’s also Dead Horse Point State Park, which is just as breathtaking and often a better fit if you’re planning to include guests. And then there’s the surrounding BLM land, which is full of hidden gems, wide open space, and locations that feel a little more off-the-beaten-path, which is perfect especially if it’s just the two of you.

In this guide, I’m breaking down all of my favorite places to elope in Moab, along with what to expect, who each location is best for, and the important things to consider, like permits and accessibility. By the end, you’ll know exactly what each place in Moab has to offer and how to create a day that feels easy, intentional, and completely your own.

Why Choose to Elope in Moab

When I say Moab has everything you could want for your elopement, I mean it.

Most people know Moab for its natural beauty (specifically in the form of red rocks), and yeah, it absolutely lives up to the hype. You’ve got Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park right in your backyard, plus towering red rock formations, the winding Colorado River, and the La Sal Mountains rising up in the distance. Whether you want an elopement backdrop that feels bold and dramatic or something a little quieter and tucked away, Moab’s got you covered.

And with all this variety of landscape come SO many ways to bake epic experiences into your elopement. You can hike out to a jaw-dropping arch, go white-water rafting on the Colorado River, off-road through the desert, or even take a private flight out to somewhere completely remote where it’s just the two of you. It’s the kind of place where your day can be as adventurous or as laid-back as you want it to be.

The town of Moab itself is just as fun. It’s quirky, full of personality, and doesn’t take itself too seriously. You’ve got local shops, solid restaurants, and everything from budget-friendly stays to really unique desert retreats. It’s one of those places where you can grab an incredible meal after a full day outside and still feel like you’re right in the middle of the adventure.

If you can’t tell by now, I’m a big fan of Moab Elopements – there’s honestly no place quite like it. It’s one of those locations that sticks with you, so if it sounds like the place for you, keep reading.

Narrowing Down Your Moab Elopement Location

When it comes to narrowing down places to elope in Moab, the first thing to think about is your vibe. I know that sounds simple, but it really does make everything else fall into place. There’s no right or wrong way to do your day, but getting clear on how you want it to feel is huge.

Maybe you’re dreaming of a full-on adventure, hitting multiple spots inside Arches National Park and soaking in all those iconic views. Or maybe you want something a little slower and more intentional, like finding a quiet overlook in Canyonlands National Park or Dead Horse Point State Park, where you can just take it all in without feeling rushed. Or honestly, maybe your dream day looks like heading out onto BLM land and having a spot completely to yourselves where you can off-road and explore to your heart’s content.

Whatever you’re picturing, start there. Once we know the kind of experience you want, we can narrow things down and find a location that fits you perfectly.

If you want help thinking through all the logistics of planning a Moab elopement, I’ve got you. In addition to these places, I put together a full guide on how to elope in Moab that walks you through everything you need to know, start to finish.

The Best Places to Elope in Moab

And here it is, the part you’ve been waiting for: my favorite places to elope in Moab! The beauty of this area is that no matter your vibe, your plans, or how adventurous (or chill) you want your day to feel, there’s a spot that fits.

Arches National Park

Who’s going to love Arches National Park: Couples looking for an iconic, accessible, and instantly recognizable Moab experience

Ahh, Arches National Park. It’s famous, it’s wildly beautiful, and it absolutely lives up to the hype. This is the place you’re probably thinking of when you picture Moab: endless red rock, dramatic formations, and arches you can walk right up to.

That said, Arches does have some pretty specific ceremony rules. You can’t just pick any arch and say your vows underneath it. Ceremonies are limited to designated locations, and a ranger is required to be present. So if your dream is total seclusion and a completely private moment, this probably isn’t your spot.

But here’s the good news. You can explore freely anywhere the public is allowed! So after your ceremony, you can absolutely wander, adventure, and soak in all the incredible formations for portraits and experience. And speaking of, here are my favorite elopement photo spots in Arches National Park.

Double Arch

Located in the Windows section of Arches National Park, Double Arch is exactly what it sounds like: two massive arches connected in one dramatic formation. This location is pretty impressive, to say the least, and it photographs beautifully. It’s also the ONLY PLACE in the park where you can have your ceremony with arches behind you, so if that’s the kind of backdrop you’re dreaming of, then you’ll want to plan to elope here.

It’s also a popular area, so you’ll almost always have other visitors around during the day. If you want a quieter experience, sunrise is your best bet. The light is soft, the temperatures are cooler, and you’ve got the highest chance of breathing room before the crowds roll in.

North Window, South Window, and Turret Arch

Still in the Windows section of Arches National Park, this cluster is one of my favorite areas in the entire park. You get multiple arches in one spot, which makes it feel like you’re getting a lot of variety without having to travel far.

It’s easy to access, which is amazing, but that also means it gets busy fast. Sunrise is key here if you want even a little breathing room. It’s also a really fun area for night photos and creative compositions, especially when the park quiets down.

Delicate Arch

If Moab had a celebrity, it would be Delicate Arch. This is the arch you see on Utah license plates, postcards, and basically everything else.

It’s stunning, but it’s not exactly a hidden gem. If privacy is your priority, winter mornings are your best shot. That said, it also makes an absolutely unreal backdrop for night sky or astro portraits once the crowds clear out.

Sand Dune Arch

Sand Dune Arch feels totally different from the rest of the park. Instead of a wide open desert, you’re tucked into a narrow canyon with soft sand underfoot. It’s definitely one of the more cozy elopement locations in Arches, so if you like the idea of getting married in Arches, but want a more intimate feel – this is your spot.

The one thing to know about Sand Dune Arch is that it’s a popular place to visit for families, so the timing here is really important. Early morning – ideally within an hour of sunrise – is your best window before it starts to get busy.

Crowds and Accessibility

One of the best things about Arches National Park is how accessible it is. You’re just a short drive from Moab, and many of the most iconic spots are only a short walk from the parking area.

The tradeoff of eloping here is the crowds. This is one of the most visited national parks in the U.S., which means you won’t be the only ones there, especially during peak season or midday hours.

If your dream is a quiet, intimate ceremony under a natural arch with no one else around, I’ll be honest, this probably isn’t the place for that. But don’t worry, there are plenty of other places to elope in Moab that deliver that feeling, and I can help you find them.

If Arches is calling your name, you’ll want to check out this elopement to get a vibe of the park. I’ve got a full planning guide to help you dive deeper into the details.

Canyonlands National Park

Who’s going to love Canyonlands National Park: Couples who want wide-open canyon views, dramatic landscapes, and a slower, more expansive kind of desert experience

Canyonlands National Park is one of those places that tends to get a little overshadowed by Arches, but honestly, it’s an incredible park to elope in Moab. It’s massive, a little quieter, and filled with some of the most jaw-dropping canyon views in the entire Moab area.

Like Arches, there are designated ceremony locations here, and a ranger is required for your ceremony. The difference is that the approved spots here actually are some of the best viewpoints in the park, which feels like a pretty amazing tradeoff!

Grand View Point Overlook

Grand View Point Overlook is exactly what it sounds like, a sweeping, expansive overlook that stretches for miles and miles of rugged canyon landscape.

This is one of those places that makes you stop talking mid-sentence. It’s huge in every sense of the word. Sunrise and sunset are both incredible here, when the light is low, and the canyon layers start to glow and shift in color.

Green River Overlook

If you want a view that really shows off the scale of this landscape, Green River Overlook is it. From here, you’re looking down over the Green River as it winds its way 1,000+ feet below you through the canyon.

This Moab elopement location is very dramatic (and one of my couples’ most requested spots). This overlook faces southwest, which makes it especially beautiful at sunset when the light starts dropping behind the canyon walls, and everything turns soft and golden. 

Mesa Arch

Mesa Arch is probably the most photographed spot in the entire park, and you’ve likely seen it in photos before without even realizing it. That glowing sunrise light framed perfectly under the arch is iconic for a reason.

That said, it’s more of a quick stop than a ceremony location. It’s incredibly popular at sunrise, but because of its size and positioning, it doesn’t really work as a backdrop for an elopement ceremony. It’s still worth experiencing, thought, especially if you’re already in the park.

Crowds and Accessibility

Canyonlands National Park sits about 45 minutes to a little over an hour from Moab, depending on which district you’re visiting, which naturally helps keep things quieter than Arches.

Some of the viewpoints here require short walks, but others – like Green River Overlook – are right off the road and super accessible. That’s one of the best parts of Canyonlands: you can choose how much effort you want your adventure to involve without sacrificing the view!

Overall, this park feels really spacious, and if you’re drawn to wide, cinematic landscapes, this one is hard to beat.

If you’re interested in what a Canyonlands elopement could look like, visit these blogs below. 

Romantic and Rainy Moab Micro Wedding

Colorful Canyonlands National Park Wedding

Fun Moab Elopement with Epic Cake Smash

Dead Horse Point State Park

Who’s going to love Dead Horse Point State Park: Couples who want an unforgettable canyon backdrop, a more flexible ceremony setup, and a great option for guests

Dead Horse Point State Park has some of THE MOST incredible canyon views in all of Moab. We’re talking massive canyon drops nearly 2,000 feet down, carved over millions of years. You’ve got dramatic gooseneck bends, rugged buttes, and these incredible pinnacles that stretch across the horizon. It’s one of my favorite places in Moab to watch the sunset, hands down.

Another huge perk of Dead Horse Point State Park is flexibility. You don’t need a ranger present for your ceremony, which already makes things feel a lot more relaxed compared to the national parks. You can also bring a bit more of a set up, dogs are allowed on leash, and overall, it’s just easier to host a ceremony here. Plus, since all the main viewpoints are pretty close together, you don’t spend your whole day driving around just to see the highlights. Huge bonus. 

Crowds and Accessibility

Dead Horse Point State Park is about 50 minutes from town and generally sees fewer visitors than the national parks, which already gives it a more spacious, easygoing feel.

Most of the best viewpoints are just a short walk from parking areas, so it’s a really accessible option without sacrificing the views. It’s also one of the few elopement locations in Moab that has real amenities like flushing restrooms, which makes it a great choice if you’re inviting guests of all ages and want things to feel a little more comfortable overall.

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

Dreamy Dead Horse Point Wedding

Desert Elopement Featuring Sunset at Dead Horse Point State Park

Castle Valley 

Who’s going to love Castle Valley: Couples who want a stunning desert backdrop with more privacy than the iconic park locations

Ok, switching gears a bit. Located just east of Moab, the Castle Valley area sits on BLM land, which immediately makes it feel a little more open, a little less structured, and way less tourist-heavy. It’s one of those places that feels like a hidden pocket of Moab, full of quiet beauty and unexpected views. You’ll find everything from winding dirt roads to hiking trails at the base of iconic formations like Fisher Towers and Castleton Tower, dramatic red sandstone spires that just seem to shoot straight out of the ground.

What I love about Castle Valley is that it doesn’t feel like you’re just pulling off at a viewpoint and calling it a day. You actually get to move through the landscape. There are backroads that wind through canyons, spots where the Colorado River cuts through the desert, and little pockets of terrain that feel completely untouched. It has a sense of exploration baked into it, which makes it really special if you want their elopement to feel like an experience, not just a location.

Crowds and Accessibility

Crowds in the Castle Valley area are generally much lighter compared to the more iconic parks around Moab, which is a huge plus if privacy is a priority for you. Depending on where you go, you can also end up quite a distance from town, which adds to that quiet, remote feel.

The tradeoff is that this area doesn’t come with the same infrastructure you’ll find in the national or state parks. It’s more rugged, more open-ended, and a little less predictable, which is exactly what makes it feel like an adventure in the first place.

Other BLM Land Locations

Who’s going to love the Other BLM land locations: Couples who want true privacy and a little bit of “we might be the only people out here” energy

Now this is where things get reallyyy flexible. If you’re looking for a truly private place to elope near Moab, you might want to consider eloping in BLM land. Because this land is public land managed by the Bureau of Land Management, there is WAY less structure, fewer crowds, and lots more freedom to explore.

You can hike out to quiet desert overlooks, take backroads that feel like they go on forever, or lean all the way into adventure with off-roading through remote terrain. And if you really want to take it up a notch, there are even options to charter a small plane and land at a backcountry airstrip where it genuinely feels like you’re out there. Like, ALONE alone. 

I also have a few tucked-away spots I only share once we start planning together, especially when I know the kind of experience you’re wanting to create.

Crowds and Accessibility

When you head out onto BLM land around Moab, there’s a very real chance you won’t see another person for your entire time out there, especially in more remote areas.

That kind of privacy is incredible, but it also comes with tradeoffs. There are very few (if any) amenities, no services, and often no clear signage or infrastructure. It’s the kind of experience where preparation matters a lot, so you’ll want to go in fully ready for a more rugged, self-sufficient kind of adventure.

Bonus Location: Hanksville

Who’s going to love Hanksville: Couples who love desert town energy, but want way fewer people than Moab

If you love the desert vibe of Moab but want something way quieter, Hanksville is such a solid alternative. It’s kind of like Moab’s more remote, low-key cousin. And when I say small, I mean it. This town has a couple of restaurants, a few gas stations, and not much else. It’s part of the charm, but it’s also something you’ll want to keep in mind if you’re planning on bringing in vendors or anything that requires more infrastructure.

That said, the surrounding landscape is incredible. You still get all that dramatic desert scenery, but with a fraction of the crowds you’ll find around Moab. Plus, you’re super close to Capitol Reef National Park, which opens up even more options for exploring and planning your elopement day.

Utah is full of so many incredible elopement locations, and this is just one of them. If you want to explore more, I’ve put together a full guide to my favorite places to elope in Utah, which you can dive into.

Seasonal Considerations When Choosing to Elope in Moab

Moab changes a lot throughout the year, and when you go can completely shape your experience. From weather to crowds to how much space you actually have at popular spots, the timing of your elopement plays a big part in what you can do and how your day feels.

Spring and Fall

Spring and fall are my absolute favorite times in Moab. From roughly March through May, and again from September through November, the temperatures are way more comfortable, which makes it so much easier to actually enjoy being outside all day.

That said, this is also when Moab gets busy. You’ll want to be mindful of Jeep Week (the week before Easter), which brings a noticeable spike in crowds, especially around popular locations. If you’re visiting during these seasons, sunrise is your best friend for more privacy, or we’ll plan for more remote locations where things naturally feel quieter.

Summer

Summer in Moab is no joke. It is HOT HOT HOT. This is the desert doing exactly what deserts do, and temperatures can easily climb into the triple digits.

Even sunset doesn’t always bring relief, so if you’re planning a summer elopement, sunrise is pretty much non-negotiable. It’s the only time of day that feels comfortable enough to really enjoy being outside without melting into the sandstone.

Winter

Winter in Moab is honestly a little underrated. Yes, it can get cold, but you also get way fewer crowds, which completely changes the way you experience the desert. Some days even bring a light dusting of snow, which against the red rock is kind of magical in its own quiet way.

It’s one of my favorite times for elopements here, especially if you want space and privacy at popular locations. The only thing to keep in mind is that special use permits typically aren’t issued around the holidays, so those dates are best avoided when planning.

What Permits Do I Need to Elope in Moab?

Speaking of permits in Moab, here’s what you need to know.

Arches and Canyonlands National Parks Elopement Permits

If you choose either Arches National Park or Canyonlands National Park for your elopement, you’ll need both a special use permit and an entrance fee.

The wedding permit for both parks is $185 and requires your ceremony to take place in a designated location. Your permit includes a one-hour time window, and a ranger is required to be present during your ceremony. You can apply up to a year in advance, and I always recommend doing this early, especially if you have your heart set on a specific location or time of day.

In addition to the permit, you’ll also need to pay the park entrance fee. The standard pass is $30 and covers up to seven consecutive days. There are also annual passes and other options depending on your plans, which you can find on the National Park Service website.

If you’re leaning toward a national park elopement, I also have a full guide that walks through the entire process step by step!

Dead Horse Point State Park Elopement Permits

Dead Horse Point State Park also requires both a special use permit and an entrance fee.

The special use permit includes a $100 application fee plus a $50 permit fee. Applications should be submitted at least 30 days in advance, so it’s not something you want to leave until the last minute. You can find full details on their official permit page.

The entrance fee is $20 per vehicle and is a simple day-use fee that only applies for the day you visit.

BLM Lands Elopement Permits

There have been recent changes to the BLM land permitting process due to the Explore Act that was passed in 2025. As it stands right now, for groups under six people, no permit is necessary. If your group is larger than six, approval is handled on a case-by-case basis through the BLM office. I help my couples navigate this if it comes up, so you’re never figuring it out alone or guessing what applies where.

What Places Should I Stay at When I Elope in Moab?

There are so many fun places to stay when you choose to elope in Moab, and your lodging can honestly become part of the whole experience. While there are plenty of traditional hotels in town, I always love pointing couples toward stays that feel a little more unique, immersive, and connected to the landscape.

Under Canvas

Under Canvas Moab is basically glamping turned all the way up. You’re staying in canvas tents, so you still get that classic desert, under-the-stars feeling, but with real beds, private bathrooms, and hot showers right in your tent.

The resort has this really fun communal energy too, with fire pits, s’mores, and that slow evening energy that makes you want to just sit outside and watch the sky change colors. It feels adventurous without sacrificing comfort, which is honestly a pretty perfect combo for an elopement trip.

Sorrel River Ranch Resort and Spa

Sorrel River Ranch Resort and Spa sits right along the river on a 240-acre property, and you’ve got sweeping river views, beautiful on-site dining, and a full spa if you want to lean into rest and relaxation before or after your elopement day.

It’s a great option if you’re looking for something elevated and a little more luxurious, while still being fully surrounded by that classic Moab desert landscape.

If you’re in the middle of planning your elopement and trying to piece everything together, I also have a full guide that walks you through exactly how to elope from start to finish so you can feel confident about every step.

Places to Elope in Moab Frequently Asked Questions

Do we need a permit for every Moab elopement site?

Whether you need a permit depends on which of the places you choose to elope in Moab. National parks like Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, as well as Dead Horse Point State Park, all require special use permits to hold a ceremony, and you’ll also need to stick to pre-approved locations within the park.

On BLM land, things are a bit more case-by-case depending on group size and location. If this part feels confusing, don’t worry at all. I help my couples sort through exactly what’s needed so nothing gets missed!

Are sunrise elopements allowed in all areas in Moab?

Generally, yes. But if your location requires a permit, you’ll want to make sure your timing fits within the approved window. For example, in Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, you’re typically given a one-hour permit window, so if sunrise is your dream, we’ll plan specifically for that time slot when you apply.

Can we bring a small group or pets when we elope in Moab?

Most places to elope in Moab allow small groups for your ceremony, though each park has its own limits.

When it comes to pets, I usually recommend skipping them in the national parks since rules are more restrictive. BLM land and places like Dead Horse Point State Park tend to be more flexible, so if having your dog there is important, those are usually your best options.

Are there restrictions on flowers or decorations when you elope in Moab?

Yes, especially in the national parks. In places like Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, you can’t bring in any outside décor. That includes rugs, arches, florals, or chairs unless they are required for accessibility reasons.

State parks and BLM land are generally more flexible. You can usually bring simple setups like a rug, chairs, or a free-standing arch if you want something a little more styled. For florals, it’s best to avoid anything that can spread or go to seed (like baby’s breath or pampass grass) to protect the desert environment.

I hope one of these places to elope in Moab has sparked something for you. This really is one of the most magical desert landscapes, and I never get tired of sharing it with couples who are dreaming up something intentional and beautiful!

If you’re ready to start planning your Moab elopement, or even just starting to explore the idea, I’d love to connect. I can’t wait to help you find the perfect spot and bring your day to life in this place that feels like a second home to me.

Blog post written by Sonder Studio