How to Elope in Moab?

Planning, Permits 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 in Moab for your dream wedding. If you're wondering how to plan an elopement in Moab, make sure to read more on that topic.

In order to get married in Moab you will need:

• Utah marriage license which you can get online or at a Moab County clerk for $30-$50.
• an officiant ordained to officiate in Utah and two witnesses
• permits, if you are planning on eloping in any National Park or on BLM land. Ask your photographer where the permits are required.
• don't forget about a photographer! Hire someone who specializes in the area and knows the best locations well. You won't realize the importance of a good photographer, who is an expert in Moab until you start working with one. Your photographer will help you with permits, locations and timeline.

Best Moab Elopement Ceremony and Photo Locations

Most people visiting the area go straight to Arches. No surprise, Arches are one of Utah's most beautiful National Parks. They're 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 and have the most beautiful elopement photos.

But if you're looking for more secluded and less crowded wedding locations in Moab, explore outside of the park.

By venturing beyond Arches National Park, 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 park not only ensures privacy and seclusion, allowing couples to exchange their vows in a serene and undisturbed atmosphere but it provides some of the most accessible and stunning elopement locations in Moab. 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.

Corona Arch and Other Arches Outside of the 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 you'll book your Moab elopement with me, I will share all the details and will be able to recommend the best Arch for your elopement.

Other Elopement Locations on Public Lands :

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.

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 2025 permit to shoot on BLM land. 

Top Reasons to Elope in Moab

• The scenery is unmatched! Although all of Utah is absolutely spectacular and unique, Moab seems to attract great number of visitors. Located about 3 hour 40 minutes from Salt lake City, or about 6 hours from Denver, Moab is appointed between two National Parks, The Arches and the Canyonlands. The landscape around Moab offers sandstone arches, cliffs with expansive vistas, vast desert, rivers to swim, and slot canyons to explore.
• Great hiking and fun activities around Moab. No wonder Moab has been attracting both: tourists and locals for a while! For couples who want to celebrate nature and have an adventure at the same time, Moab is the dream elopement location: you can explore it by jeep or by foot on numerous hikes. Keep reading for all the details if you're planning your Moab elopement!
• Great weather most of the year. Moab is one of those locations that are good year round, although summers tend to be very hot, you can start your day early at sunrise and enjoy the rest of the day on an epic adventure.

Best Time to Elope in Moab

Most of Utah in general is a year round destination but expect hot dry summers, and cold winters with snow.

• Moab is probably the most pleasant in the spring and fall where temperatures are lower, and crowds are less. So if you hate the heat, I recommend planning your elopement in March, April, May, September through November. You can expect some rain in the spring, but that provides great opportunity for rainbows and interesting clouds.
• Fall is another great season because you won't run into all the crowds, temperatures are moderate and the traffic is a breeze. In terms of time of a day I always suggest doing either sunrise or sunset for the most beautiful golden light, which surrounded red rock reflect beautifully like a natural diffuser . If you're looking for less crowd sunrise is definitely a better option, although personally I always prefer the golden hour leading towards the sunset.

Where to Stay in Moab

It all depends if you want to camp or stay in cozy accommodation. There are quite a few established campgrounds near Moab, as well as ton of dispersed (free) camping. If facility, privacy and comfort are your concern you can look into glamping in an old airstream at Field Station or in a modern tent at Under Canvas. There are also numerous of Airbnbs located in or outside the town. If traveling in a summer or fall I'd recommend booking your accommodation well in advance. If you have more questions on how to elope in Moab feel free to reach out.