Planning, Logistics and Things to Know
Thinking of exchanging vows amidst breathtaking red rock formations and dramatic canyons? Look no further than Moab, the ultimate destination for an unforgettable elopement. In this blog post, I will provide you with a comprehensive guide to my favorite locations outside of Moab for your dream wedding. If you're wondering how to plan a stunning elopement in Moab, make sure to read my previous blog on that topic.
Best Elopement Locations in Moab
Eloping in Moab, Utah, offers a truly breathtaking experience that couples are sure to cherish forever. While the iconic Arches National Park may be the first place that comes to mind, exploring lesser-known locations outside of the park can be a wise and rewarding decision. Moab is a region teeming with natural beauty, boasting an abundance of striking landscapes, red rock formations, and stunning vistas. By venturing beyond Arches, couples can discover secluded spots that offer a sense of intimacy and exclusivity, creating an unforgettable backdrop for their elopement. The surrounding desert canyons, hidden alcoves, and winding rivers provide a tapestry of natural wonders, allowing couples to exchange vows in a setting that feels uniquely their own. Furthermore, choosing locations outside of Arches offers the advantage of avoiding crowds and potential logistical challenges (limited ceremony time), enabling couples to focus on the sheer romance and intimacy of their special day. Whether it's a sunset ceremony atop a scenic overlook or a quiet exchange of vows beside a serene river, Moab's hidden gems promise to create an elopement experience that is both extraordinary and deeply personal.
Dead Horse Point State Park
Dead Horse Point State Park stands as an exceptional choice for couples seeking a remarkable elopement location. Perched on a lofty mesa above the Colorado River, this stunning park offers awe-inspiring views that will leave couples and their guests breathless. The park's dramatic overlooks provide a panoramic backdrop of deep canyons, rugged cliffs, and majestic rock formations, creating a sense of grandeur and intimacy all at once. The iconic Dead Horse Point, with its sheer vertical drop and commanding vistas, serves as a symbol of untamed beauty and serves as a powerful metaphor for the bond between two people embarking on a lifelong journey together. The park's vast expanse also ensures privacy and seclusion, allowing couples to exchange their vows in a serene and undisturbed atmosphere. The best time to hold the ceremony is sunrise (no crowds), but if waking up early is not for you second best option is sunset. Note: Your photographer will need special use permit to shoot at Dead Horse Point and you will need separate ceremony permit. Don't listen to photographers who tell you otherwise. They either are clueless or don't want to go though the trouble, but there is nothing worse than having your ceremony interrupted by a ranger. Great news! I have been approved for permit for all of 2023 so shooting your elopement became that much easier.
Arches Outside of the National Park
While Arches National Park is renowned for its iconic natural arches, there are several other remarkable arches located outside the park that offer their own unique beauty and charm for your elopement. Some of them Are easily accessible with a short walk, some require a hike and some are more challenging getting too.
- One such notable arch is Corona Arch, situated near Moab, Utah. This impressive sandstone arch stands at a height of 140 feet and boasts a magnificent span that stretches across a scenic canyon. Corona Arch provides an incredible backdrop for elopements, with its striking red rock formations and panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape.
- Wilson Arch doesn't require much hiking and is located short drive from the Looking Glass Arch. Both offer great photography opportunities
I have been to most of the Arches and scouted what locations would be the best for my clients, so if your book your Moab elopement with me I will share all the details and will be able to recommend the best Arch for your elopement.
Hidden Gems on BLM lands: More Elopement Locations
The BLM lands (Bureau of Land Management) offer countless scenic spots for elopements. With panoramic vistas of deep canyons, the Colorado River, and distant mountain ranges, this area showcases the vast and breathtaking beauty of the Utah desert. Couples can explore various overlooks and find a secluded spot that resonates with their vision for their special day.
These BLM locations near Moab not only provide stunning natural landscapes but also offer the advantage of privacy and flexibility in ceremony planning. With endless possibilities for customization, couples can create a truly personalized elopement experience while immersing themselves in the captivating beauty of Utah's BLM lands. I have scouted amazing these locations just for people like you, and disclose the exact location to my clients. You will need to make sure your photographer has special permit to shoot commercially on BLM. Don't trust those who tell they don't need one. It's required by the Bureau of Land Management and the last thing you want is to have you ceremony interrupted by a ranger.
Great news! I have a photography permit to shoot on most locations on Moab BLM land for the whole 2024. I will help you navigate the process in getting ceremony permit if needed.
Castle Valley
Castle Valley is a small town just north of Moab. Perfect alternative if you're looking to escape all the tourists in Moab. The best part about this elopement spot? The view itself is one of the best backdrops for your elopement ceremony. Castle Valley gets its name from the sandstone that looks just like a castle from the distance and because it's located on BLM it provides great privacy. You and your photographer will need a permit for you to elope here. I will help you with that and already hold 2024 permit to shoot on BLM land.
Red Earth Venue
If you're bringing many guests and want an intimate wedding in a gorgeous red rock location with all the amenities, comforts of a venue The Read Earth Venue might be the place just for you. This beautiful wedding venue in Moab offers panoramic views of the red rocks, the ability to create an incredible space to host an intimate wedding or bigger elopement. The is a great location where you can host a dinner, have your first dance and still feel the remoteness of nature and intimacy of a smaller wedding.
