How To Elope In Zion National Park!

>> for adventurers and nature lovers

Zion National Park Elopement Photographer

There’s something about Zion National Park… It’s been captivating visitors for years and is one of the most popular national parks in the country. It’s obvious to see why. I’ve been visiting the park since I was a teenager and I’m still mesmerized each time I go! There’s just nothing like it. If you’re ready to be captivated by the desert and immersed in a spectacular landscape like no other, then Zion is the right choice for your elopement!

And wanna know the best part?? Planning an elopement in Zion National Park doesn’t have to be difficult or stressful. In fact, it can be a lot of fun!!

First things first, let’s address a few of the most commonly asked questions about Zion that maybe you’ve been wondering yourself…

Can you get married in Zion National Park?

Short answer… yes! You can hold a legal ceremony inside of the national park. Instead of paying thousands of dollars on a wedding venue, you can pay just roughly $100 and be surrounded by a breathtaking landscape!

The permit required is called a Special Use Permit (SUP) and must be submitted at least three weeks in advance in order to be considered. To make things easier for my couples, I often apply on their behalf, unless instructed otherwise by the park.

Where can you elope in Zion National Park?

There are six designated areas in the park that allow wedding ceremonies to be held. They are: Temple of Sinawava, Menu Falls, Zion Lodge Lawn, Nature Center North Lawn, South Campground Amphitheater, and Timber Creek Overlook.

These locations have various guest count restrictions and other restrictions. To read more, click here.

Do you need witnesses to elope in Utah?

Yes. You need two witnesses over the age of 18 present during the ceremony. However, I usually have an assistant with me, so my assistant and I can act as your witnesses if you choose not to have any guests present!

Regarding officiant services, the Utah state website says, “A minister, rabbi, priest, county clerk, Native American spiritual adviser, the governor, mayors, court commissioners and judges, state attorney general, state treasurer, state auditor, as well as particular members of the legislature may perform wedding ceremonies.”

A fun fact about Utah officiants/ordained ministers, according to the American Marriages Ministries organization, is “Wedding officiants in Utah are not required to register with any government office prior to performing marriage. The Utah State Government has no laws requiring officiant registration or office dedicated to the registration of wedding officiants.” Meaning once you’re an ordained minister, you immediately have the legal ability to officiate weddings anywhere in Utah. Super cool!

Also, there is no waiting period before you can get married. Which means the day you get your license you can get married. This is especially good news if you’re planning to travel to Zion from out of state, because you don’t have to arrive weeks in advance or make a special trip out just to get your marriage license. However, the license is only valid for 32 days. So a legal ceremony would need to take place before that expiration date.

Now on to the big question…

How do you plan an elopement in Zion National Park?

Here is a basic checklist to help you get started:

Decide on a date (or at least have some ideas). For more about the weather in Zion National Park, click here.
Hire an elopement photographer. I recommend someone that specializes in elopements. Wedding planning and photography are very different from elopements. You want someone with experience that can guide you through this process, while delivering images that tell your individual story.
Even if you’ve already decided on Zion for your elopement (amazing decision by the way), start narrowing down the specific location you want to have your ceremony inside of the park. If you’ve hired a photographer that also assists with planning, like I do, you can discuss this with them and they can guide you. If you’d like to elope outside of the park, start thinking about which locations you’re interested in.
Start applying for a permit! If eloping inside of the park, I recommend doing this fairly early on in the process because a permit ultimately decides if your ceremony can happen in the park or not. Your photographer can generally guide you through this process as well. If you plan to hold the ceremony outside of the park, a permit would not be needed for Zion.
Book your accommodations!
Begin deciding on the details you want included in your day like: other locations you want to visit in the park, other vendors you’d like to hire, activities you’d like to do, etc. This is another reason why it’s important to hire your photographer early on because they can help inspire you and plan out all of these details. They can also help you use this information to create a seamless timeline of your day.
If you’ve decided to include other vendors (like an officiant, florals, etc.) be sure to secure those vendors.
Make it legal! Don’t forget to have an ordained minister present and the appropriate paperwork on hand for the ceremony. If you’ve decided to hold the legal portion of your ceremony elsewhere and just want to share private vows, don’t forget to bring your vows with you!
**If private vows take place within the park and will not include any guests OR a legal ceremony, a permit would not be needed because Zion is awesome!

Once you’ve completed all of these steps, you’ve officially eloped in Zion National Park and had it documented for you and your loved ones to cherish for generations.

Here are a few answers to additional questions I’ve heard over the years…

Is eloping more intimate?

As I was doing my research for this blog post, this was a commonly asked question by couples looking to elope in Zion. I found it interesting, but I really love the question! I am such a big advocate for elopements because of their intimacy. In my opinion, eloping is far more intimate than a traditional wedding. Here’s why…

Eloping takes the act of getting married back to the way it was in times past — two people exchanging their vows and committing their lives to one another. It doesn’t get any more romantic than that.

Eloping often includes less than 10 guests or none at all. This allows you to share this experience with only the most important people in your lives or privately with just each other.
Expectation goes out the door when it comes to eloping, so you can create the day you’ve dreamed of without stress, obligation, tradition, or drama.
Elopements create less waste and can be as adventurous or minimalist as you want.
Often couples who eloped have told me that they remember a lot of the details, because the day moves at a slower pace and there are less demands for attention. While the experience may still fly by, it feels like less of a “blur” and more of a meaningful memory.
Eloping also allows you to incorporate unique and special details that won’t get lost in the commotion.
Eloping shifts the focus to the two of you, as a couple, the way it should be.

What is the best time of year to elope in Zion National Park?

The quick answer is late spring or early fall (i.e. April/May or Mid September/October). In the spring and fall months, temperatures average in the 60’s and 70’s during the day, with little chance of thunderstorms. Spring offers a lot of bloom and fall offers lovely foliage, so either season is a beautiful time to visit. Not to mention, the Virgin River is often rushing due to snowmelt in the spring. Both the spring and fall seasons also generally have fewer crowds. Facilities/shuttle services in the park are typically open.

However, you may decide that summer or winter are more your vibe. If so, here’s what you need to know… Summer is the busiest time of the year for the park. Which means more crowds and more expensive accommodations. Also, this is the hottest time in the park where temperatures can climb to well over 100 degrees during the day. The monsoon season kicks in generally late July through August. However, the sunrises and sunsets are stunning, the days are longer, and the park really shows off its beauty!

In winter, the park sometimes experiences snow. I’ve seen it myself, and it dusts the park in the most stunning way! Crowds are the smallest in winter and accommodations are the cheapest, but a lot of park facilities and the shuttle service are closed. Some of the trails and areas of the park can’t be accessed in winter. It’s generally considered a cold and wet time to visit the park. Temperatures average in the 40’s and 50’s during the day.

As you can see, each season in Zion offers its own pros and cons. There is no wrong answer when it comes to choosing, but it’s important to know what to expect. You can read more about the weather in Zion National Park here.

Can you elope outside of Zion National Park?

Definitely! In fact, some of the areas surrounding Zion are just as beautiful as the park itself! Some couples choose to elope outside of the park to avoid the permitting process, and then go into the park just for photos and activities. This is also an awesome idea if you want to incorporate different landscapes and activities in your Zion adventure!

Some areas outside of Zion that are amazing are: Kolob Terrace, Baker Reservoir, and Kolob Canyon. We can definitely chat about these options and more if you’d like to include areas outside of the park for your elopement!

Are pets allowed in Zion National Park?

Technically yes, but the only trail they are allowed on is the Pa'rus trail that begins at the Visitor’s Center. They must be leashed and never left unattended.

On the National Park website it says, “Additionally, properly restrained pets are welcome along public roads and parking areas, in the developed campgrounds and picnic areas, and on the grounds of the Zion Lodge.” Ultimately, I would leave your pet at home if you’re planning to elope in Zion!

Which vendors should I hire for my Zion elopement?

Not all elopement photographers are created equal, but for my couples I put together a location-specific vendor list to make this part of the process less stressful for you. This list includes everything from florists to officiants, but I’m also always happy to update and expand it based on your specific needs. The list will show the available information for that vendor so that you can get an idea of their work and can easily contact them.

Where should I stay for my Zion elopement?

The areas surrounding Zion offer some of the best accommodations that I’ve seen near a national park!! However, if it’s important to you to stay inside of the park the only options you have are camping or the Zion Lodge.

For places to stay outside of the park, some of my personal favorites are: Open Sky Zion, Zion Ponderosa Ranch, and Zion Wildflower Resort. Some honorable mentions are Under Canvas Zion and Autocamp Zion. Zion Ponderosa Ranch has an Airbnb listing that’s to die for!! Let me know if you’re interested and I’ll share more details.

Keep in mind when booking your accommodations, which entrance station you will be closest to. Driving from one end of the park to another can easily take over an hour, so it’s important to know which side of the park you are staying. The two most popular entrances are Springdale (most common) and Zion-Mount Carmel.

**Insider tip: The south entrance at Springdale is at a lower elevation, so temperatures are always warmer here. The east entrance at Zion-Mount Carmel is at a much higher elevation, so temperatures are often cooler. In transitional seasons, you might even see snow on the east side of the park and dry in the south!

How do I get to Zion National Park?

If you’re flying in: The largest airport with the least expensive flights would be Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas. It’s three hours from Zion, so be sure to rent a car and plan accordingly! The closest airport would be St. George Regional Airport. It’s only an hour from Zion, but has limited commercial flights. If you want to fly directly into Utah, Salt Lake City International Airport would be the largest with the least expensive flights. It’s a four-hour drive to Zion. The last option would be Cedar City Regional Airport. It’s only one hour from Zion, but has limited commercial flights. However, flights to Cedar from Salt Lake City are available.

If you’re driving in: From Las Vegas (3-hour drive), you’ll take Interstate 15 north. You’ll pass through two towns, Mesquite and St. George (40 miles from Zion). These are great areas for a pit stop! Once through St. George, you’ll take exit 16 and stay right on State Route 9 east for 33 miles. Stay right to continue on State Route 9 east in La Verkin, UT for 20 miles. Stay on State Route 9 east into the park.

From Salt Lake City (4-hour drive), you’ll take Interstate 15 south. You’ll pass through a few towns like Beaver and Cedar City (57 miles from Zion), which are great spots for a pit stop! Take exit 27 and stay left on State Route 17 south for 26 miles. Stay left on State Route 9 east in La Verkin, UT for 20 miles. Continue on State Route 9 east into the park.

**Insider tip: There is a time change between Nevada and Utah. Utah is one-hour ahead of Nevada, so keep that in mind when making your plans if arriving in Las Vegas.

Zion elopement advice:

Couples often ask me, “What should we do for our elopement besides just vows?” The number one activity in Zion National Park is hiking. However, Zion has a number of activities in the surrounding area that would be amazing to include! If you are a lover of beautiful landscapes, exploration, and adventure, then Zion is the right choice for your elopement!

There are lots of amazing trails and epic views to explore in the park. One of the most popular spots for elopements is the Zion Overlook trail. I’ve hiked it at both sunrise and sunset and it’s beautiful at either time. However, sunset is more popular. Some activities you could include in your elopement experience besides hiking are: horseback riding, canyoneering, a helicopter tour, an ATV excursion, and more!

**Insider tip: Zion gets extremely busy on the weekends. For that reason, I would highly recommend choosing a weekday for your elopement.

Have I convinced you yet that Zion National Park is THE best place to elope?? I hope so, because it really is!

Ready to have an adventurous elopement in Zion, with me as your planner and photographer??

Zion Elopement Packages

Full Day or Multi-Day

(Up to 12 hours of coverage)

This is the perfect option for you two if you want to explore and adventure and create a full on experience. This is also a great option if you’d like to have one day to include guests, and another to have to yourselves.

We can visit multiple locations and include various activities to make getting married more than just nuptials, but an event to remember.

Half Day

(Up to 8 hours of coverage)

This is for you if you’re a couple that wants a relaxing experience that allows you to maximize your time.

Your day can include a first look, getting ready, vows, guest photos, multiple locations, first dance, etc.

Mini

(Up to 4 hours of coverage)

This is a short and sweet option if you two are looking to have your vows captured along with a short adventure in one location.

PACKAGE PRICING BEGINS AT $4,400

we want to co-create with you!

All photography packages include:

One photographer

Personal planning assistance to help you choose locations, vendors, and create your timeline

Assistance with permitting

Private online gallery of high-resolution images, showcasing your elopement

5-10 polaroid images to take home the day of

Sneak peek photos

No additional fees

Guidance, friendship, and a meaningful experience!

Meet Your Zion Elopement Photographer

My husband and I have been married for 7 years, and have two cats — Kuro & Suyen. These three are my whole world.

I started my artistic journey with our family camcorder around age five, and the rest is history...

Capturing the love stories of others, going on adventures of a lifetime, and witnessing unforgettable landscapes are what I live for. Even though I would describe myself as being more introverted, I love connecting with my couples and making life-long memories together.

Shooting in an artistic style, with an intentional approach, allows your story to be told authentically.

I’m deeply passionate about photography, and I think that reflects in my work and spirit. Every couple is unique and every love story is different, so I approach each elopement with personal care.

You and your partner deserve an adventure where you are the focus.

Get in touch and let’s start planning your epic Zion elopement!

Please be aware that I specialize in micro weddings & elopements, with a guest count of 30 people or less.

I focus on a limited number of elopements + intimate weddings each year, so that I can give yours the time and attention that it deserves. From co-creating your perfect wedding experience right down to the finer details in your final gallery, our work together will be an authentic representation of you and your love story.

In order for us to get started on the right foot, please share your love story with me and any ideas that you’re picturing for your day in the form below.

I love the outdoors more than anything! I could spend all of my time in it, but our national parks and public lands can only last as long as we protect them.

Protect this place and Leave No Trace:

Leave No Trace is a code of ethics and principles that we all should follow as best we can, when adventuring in the outdoors. These principles can help us enjoy public lands responsibly and preserve them for generations to come.

Here are the 7 principles of Leave No Trace:

Plan ahead and prepare
Travel and camp on durable surfaces
Dispose of waste properly
Leave what you find
Minimize campfire impacts
Respect wildlife
Be considerate of others

These principles may or may not impact your elopement, depending on what you have in mind. However, these guidelines are not meant to put a damper on your plans. They are meant to protect these beautiful places so that one day maybe you can come back for an anniversary, or bring your children or grandchildren to these places.

Ultimately, we want to enjoy these incredible lands year after year with minimal impact.

I do my best to practice Leave No Trace for all of my elopements. If you have a question, don’t hesitate to ask! But I will do my best to educate and guide you as necessary. National and state parks have Leave No Trace practices implemented by default.

Want to see what your Zion elopement could look like and get some inspo??

Check out this blog post!

FOLLOW ALONG!