Utah is a land of otherworldly landscapes! From towering red rock cliffs to sprawling salt flats and desert canyons that glow at sunset. If you’re dreaming of an epic, nature-filled wedding day, there’s truly no better place to elope. As a Utah elopement photographer, I’ve have helped countless couples find their perfect backdrop for saying “I do.” In this guide, you’ll discover the most breathtaking places to elope in Utah, tips for permits and seasons, and how to plan an unforgettable adventure that’s entirely your own.

Places To Elope In Utah

There’s a reason why Utah is a popular destination for elopements! With it’s incredible landscapes filled with red rock arches and clear blue skies – you can’t beat Utah for your saying your vows!

There are over 40 state parks and five national parks, the options really are endless when it comes to places to elope in Utah! And if you and your partner love to adventure, it’s the perfect place to hike, camp, kayak, and more together! You may want to plan a Utah elopement to experience something new together, or maybe Utah is a significant place for you. Either way, choosing Utah as your elopement destination offers you a wide variety of unique and equally stunning locations!

Locations To Elope In Utah

Like I mentioned above, the options here to elope are too many to name! Each location below is filled with natural beauty and unique landscapes with plenty of ideal spots to say your vows. But these are a few of my most favorite places to elope in Utah:

Moab

Moab

is a dream for couples craving wide-open desert views, towering red rock formations, and endless adventure. It’s home to both Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, with famous landmarks like Delicate Arch and Mesa Arch making unforgettable ceremony backdrops. Spring and fall offer the best weather, avoiding the intense summer heat. You’ll need a special use permit to elope inside the national parks, but surrounding BLM land offers equally stunning (and often more private) options for your vows.

If Moab is a top location for your elopement, feel free to check out my Moab Elopement Guide!

Arches National Park

If you’re picturing sandstone arches and dramatic desert scenery for your elopement, Arches National Park delivers. With over 2,000 natural stone arches and countless viewpoints, it’s one of the most iconic spots in Utah. Sunrise and sunset are ideal times for a ceremony, with golden light flooding the red rock. A special use permit is required to hold a ceremony inside the park, and some areas may have guest limits, so be sure to plan ahead.

Zion National Park

Zion is where soaring red cliffs meet lush valleys and winding canyons. This national park offers both epic overlooks like Canyon Overlook Trail and cozy riverside spots for intimate ceremonies. Spring and fall bring mild weather and beautiful foliage, though summer elopements can be stunning at higher elevations. Special use permits are required for ceremonies within Zion, so it’s a good idea to plan for weekdays or sunrise to avoid the crowds.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon is known for its otherworldly hoodoo rock formations and stunning amphitheaters. Couples who love unique, out-of-this-world landscapes will fall in love with this spot. The park’s high elevation means cooler temps, so late spring through early fall is best. A special use permit is needed for ceremonies, and popular locations like Sunrise and Sunset Points offer breathtaking backdrops for your vows.

Bonneville Salt Flats

For couples chasing something minimalistic, ethereal, and strikingly unique, the Bonneville Salt Flats are perfect. Endless white salt stretches for miles, with distant mountain ranges creating a surreal, dreamy atmosphere. No permit is required for elopements on public land here, though you’ll want to check conditions, especially after heavy rains. Sunset and twilight turn the salt flats into a pastel wonderland — perfect for elopement photos.

Wasatch Mountains

If you’re looking for alpine lakes, mountain meadows, and towering peaks the Wasatch Mountains are an incredible option! Summer and early fall are prime seasons, with wildflowers in July and golden aspens in late September. Many areas don’t require permits for small ceremonies, though specific spots like Big Cottonwood Canyon may have guidelines. It’s a fantastic location for couples who want a laid-back mountain vibe with easy accessibility.

When to Elope in Utah

You really can’t go wrong with planning an elopement in Utah! It all depends on the vibe you’re looking for and whether you’re hoping to avoid the crowds. Utah’s climate varies a lot based on elevation — with desert valleys, mountain peaks, and everything in between — so it’s important to consider both location and season when choosing your elopement date. Here are a few things to keep in mind when searching for the perfect time to elope in Utah:

Summer (June-August)

Although summertime may feel like the most convenient option, it can get extremely hot in Southern Utah’s desert regions. Temps often soaring over 100°F. If you’re dreaming of a lake elopement or a higher-elevation mountain spot, summer can still be beautiful, especially in Northern Utah. To avoid the peak heat and crowds, consider eloping at sunrise or sunset, or opt for June or early September.

Fall (September-November)

Utah’s mountains absolutely shine during fall with stunning golden aspens and crisp mountain air. Northern Utah’s Wasatch Mountains are especially breathtaking this time of year, while in Southern Utah, the weather cools to a perfect, comfortable range. With fewer visitors in the national parks and colorful backdrops everywhere you turn, it’s one of the best seasons to plan an elopement.

Winter (December-March)

Utah winters are pure magic. If you love snow-dusted peaks and cozy winter vibes, this is the perfect time for a mountain elopement. Northern Utah’s ski towns like Park City are full of charm, and the Wasatch Mountains become a snow lover’s paradise. Meanwhile, Southern Utah’s national parks remain accessible with much smaller crowds — and occasional dustings of snow against the red rocks make for stunning photos. Bonus: many shuttle-required areas are open to personal vehicles in winter.

Spring (April-May)

Spring is one of my absolute favorite seasons for elopements in Utah. Wildflowers start to bloom in the mountains, desert landscapes come alive with color, and the weather stays comfortably warm. Northern Utah’s snow begins to melt, opening up alpine lakes and scenic drives, while Southern Utah’s parks are lush and inviting. It’s a popular time to visit, so I recommend planning early for permits and accommodations.

How to Elope in Utah

Every state has its own marriage laws, and Utah is no different. The process isn’t too complicated, but there are a few legal steps you’ll need to take if you want your ceremony to be officially recognized.

That said, if dealing with all the legal stuff doesn’t sound like your thing, no worries! Your Utah ceremony doesn’t have to be legal—you can make it symbolic and take care of the paperwork before or after in your home state. What really matters is the moment you say your vows and commit to each other. Sure, signing a marriage license makes it official on paper, but your wedding day is about celebrating your love, and that’s what truly counts.

You need to have an officiant

To legally marry in Utah, you’ll need an officiant who is legally ordained.

Marriage license applications must be done in person

Unfortunately, you can’t apply for your license online, so you’ll need to stop by the county clerk’s office to get it.

No waiting period

Once you have your license, you can get married the same day!

You’ll need two witnesses

You can bring close friends or family, but if you’re eloping, I can sign as a witness, and we can easily find someone else to help—it’s been done before!

What you need to apply to Elope in Utah

• Marriage License Fees – Costs vary by county but typically range from $40 to $60.
• Social Security Information – Bring your Social Security cards or have your numbers ready for both of you.
• Parent Details – You’ll need the names and birthplaces of both parents, including your mother’s maiden name.
• Valid Photo ID – A passport, birth certificate, driver’s license, or state ID will work as proof of age.
• Divorce Documents – If you’ve been divorced, bring a copy of your most recent divorce decree.

Or Opt for a Symbolic Ceremony Instead!

If you’re from out of state, you can have a symbolic ceremony so you don’t have to worry about the legal side of eloping in Utah! How does it work? You simply get legally married wherever you live and handle the paperwork there. Then, for your elopement, you can make the ceremony entirely your own—no need for an officiant or witnesses! Couples who choose this option usually don’t mind not being legally married on the elopement day, because for them, the real “marriage” happens when they exchange vows—it’s all about the celebration of their love!

What To Pack For Your Utah Elopement (By Season)

Summer:

• Lot’s of water + electrolytes (seriously… it gets hot!)
• Lightweight, breathable attire
• Sunglasses + sunscreen
• A wide-brimmed hat for shade between photos

Fall:

• Layers for chilly mornings and evenings
• Cosy blankets for post-ceremony cuddles
• Warm-toned florals to match the golden leaves

Winter:

• Insulated boots and warm socks
• Hand warmers
• A wrap or faux fur shawl for extra warmth
• Snow-friendly hiking spiked if heading into the mountains

Spring:

• Layers- temps can swing from cool mornings to sunny afternoons
• Waterproof shoes for muddy or wet trails
• Allergy meds if you’re sensitive to pollen

Pro Tip: No matter the season, always bring a headlamp or flashlight for sunrise/sunset hikes, extra water, and a small first-aid kit. The desert and mountains can be wild places, a little prep goes a long way! Yeah

Utah Elopement Photographer || Places To Elope In Utah

Hi I’m Lauren, and if you’re ready to find places to elope in Utah, then I’m the one to help you out! Your elopement should be about you and your partner and be exactly what you’ve been dreaming about!

With a seamless blend of candid storytelling and gentle direction, I make sure you feel comfortable every step of the way—so you can be fully present while I capture the magic unfolding around you. This isn’t just about pictures; it’s about preserving the way your day felt—the quiet touches, the unfiltered joy, the hands held tight. Investing in your wedding photography means investing in memories that will only grow more valuable with time. Ready to learn more?