How to Plan Your Canyonlands Elopement
Canyonlands National Park, located in southeastern Utah, is known for its stunning red rock landscapes, deep canyons, and mesas. For those seeking a unique and intimate ceremony, eloping in Canyonlands offers an unparalleled experience. This blog will guide you how to plan your dream elopement in this spectacular desert landscape.
Everything You Need to Know to Elope in Canyonlands
Canyonlands National Park is one of Utah's five National Parks located in Souther part of the state. Nestled in the rugged heart of Utah, Canyonlands National Park stands as a geological masterpiece, a canvas painted by the hands of time. Encompassing over 337,000 acres of desert landscape, this park is a testament to the raw beauty and sculpting power of nature.
- How to Get There
The nearest airport is Grand Junction, CO located about 90 min away. The cheapest airport with the best car rental options would be Salt Lake City about 4 hours away, or Denver, CO 5 hours 30 min away. The nearest town to based yourself out of is Moab which is also my favorite elopement and portrait location in Utah. You can read more about eloping in Moab in my blogs.
- Necessary Permits:
As always before embarking on your matrimonial adventure, secure the required permits. In order to elope in any National Park one needs to obtain special use permits. A smooth legal journey will ensure you can fully immerse yourself in the natural wonders surrounding your celebration. The process id usually easy and straightforward but you should apply for such permit at least 3 months in advance. Here in the link to the application form from the park.
Props
- Best Time to Elope
Opt for the magical hours of sunrise or sunset, when the sun paints the landscape with warm hues, creating an enchanting backdrop for your vows. Consider the seasons, with spring and fall offering milder temperatures for your outdoor celebration. Summers are usually the busiest and hottest so that's not the best season for your desert elopement but spring and fall certainly are my favorite.
Best Elopement Locations in the Canyonlands
Choose a location for your ceremony that harmonizes with the natural surroundings. Whether it's an overlook with expansive views or a secluded spot amidst the canyons, let the landscape become an integral part of your vows, creating a profound connection between your love and the ancient geological wonders.
- The Island in the Sky district boasts expansive vistas, a theater of light and shadows as the sun dances across the towering mesas.
- Venture into the Needles district for a kaleidoscope of colors, with striking spires and labyrinthine canyons creating a surreal backdrop.
- Meanwhile, the Maze district, though challenging to access, promises seclusion amidst the rugged beauty of the backcountry.
As always practice LNT Leave no Trace principles Leave No Trace. to ensure that your celebration leaves minimal impact on the environment, preserving the natural beauty of Canyonlands for future generations to revel in and cherish. Looking for your Canyonlands elopement photographer?
