Eloping in Castle Valley
Thinking of exchanging vows amidst breathtaking red rock formations and Wild West vide? Look no further than Castle Valley right outside of Moab. In this blog post, I will provide you with a comprehensive guide to my favorite location outside of Moab for your dream wedding. If you're wondering how to plan an elopement in Moab, make sure to read more my previous post.
Few things to keep in mind when planning and elopement regardless of location:
In order to get married in Castle Valley you will need:
- Utah marriage license which you can get online or at a Moab County clerk.
- an officiant and two witnesses, make sure your officiant is ordained to legally marry people in Utah.
- You will need to obtain a permit from Moab BLM office. This is to keep track on how many people visit the area as well as making sure it doesn't get overrun by too many tourists. This whole area is very fragile and need protection.
- don't forget about a photographer!
Best Elopement Ceremony Near Castle Valley
Most people visiting the area go straight to the Arches. No surprise, Arches are one of Utah's most beautiful National Parks. The park is also a popular wedding destination. I wrote a blog on eloping there with everything you need to know to make the best of your wedding day. But if you're looking for more secluded and less crowded wedding locations near Moab and you want to explore outside of the busy park here are some hidden gems on a BLM land.
Below are approved elopement locations outside of Moab near Castle VAlley.
Please note: you will need a special use permit from Moab BLM Office. Castle Valley per se is not allowed ceremony location due to the fragility of the terrain and crypto soil but you can have photos taken at many amazing spots.
Authorized Ceremony Locations Near Castle Valley:
- Fisher Towers Trail and Climbing Routes along the Fisher Towers Trail
- Rocky Rapid/Ida Gulch Parking Area & Ida Gulch Equestrian Parking
- Parriott Mesa Trail (parking area, access route and ridgeline to BASE exit)
- Mary Jane Canyon
- All developed Moab BLM Campgrounds
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 personal and adventurous.
Leave No Trace Practices and Crypto Soil
Crypto soil, or biological soil crust, is a fragile living ground cover made up of cyanobacteria, mosses, and lichens found in arid regions like the high desert outside Moab, Utah. This crust plays a crucial role in preventing erosion, retaining moisture, and supporting desert ecosystems. However, it is incredibly delicate—one footprint can destroy decades of growth. To protect these vital soils, visitors must follow Leave No Trace practices: always stay on established trails and durable surfaces, avoid walking on unmarked soil, and educate others about the importance of preserving this living landscape. How to tell you're seeing crypto soil? Look for crusty slightly darker shell like surface, don't touch it and don't step on it.
