Eloping in Moab

A Guide to Eloping in Moab, Utah

Updated June 2025

If you’re planning your elopement but not sure where to elope yet, you’ve probably been looking online. In your search, it is very likely that the Western states have popped up a lot, especially Utah! And for good reason. We have SO many beautiful places here! And a top favorite for couples eloping, is Moab. If you’ve seen photos of Moab, you know of the dramatic canyon views and towering red rocks.

Beyond scenery, Moab offers adventure: from rock climbing and canyoneering to mountain biking, rafting, Jeeping, guided wilderness tours, and even stargazing in official Dark Sky Parks. Don’t miss helicopter tours or hot air balloon rides for unforgettable aerial shots. The town also has excellent local coffee shops, restaurants, and a range of lodging options, from luxury glamping to cozy rentals. You truly can’t go wrong with eloping in Moab!

I love my mountains, but the red rock desert of Moab will always have a special place in my heart! There’s nothing quite like this unearthly place, and Moab is the perfect place for eloping if you want adventure and epic views!

Why Moab is the Perfect Place for Eloping

With Arches and Canyonlands National Parks right at its doorstep, plus Dead Horse Point State Park and expansive BLM lands, you’re immersed in dramatic red-rock landscapes, endless big-sky views, and the winding Colorado River, all perfect for breathtaking photos.

There also is no shortage of things to do while you stay in Moab. Moab has some of the best rock climbing, canyoneering, ATVing, hiking, mountain biking, camping, and white water rafting! All three parks mentioned below are also International Dark Sky Parks, and the town of Moab itself is an International Dark Sky Community! So there is some epic stargazing in Moab as well! Or if you are an adrenaline junkie, base jumping is also very popular here! And if you’re wanting epic views from above, there are also helicopter and hot air balloon tours! There is definitely no lack of adventure in this amazing place.

Moab also has some great local restaurants and coffee shops, and unique places to stay during your time in this corner of Southern Utah. Whether you’re looking to go big or wanting to keep things small and intimate, you’re sure to find the perfect additions for eloping in Moab!

Best Times for Eloping in Moab

Honestly, Moab is beautiful any time of the year. But in my opinion, spring and fall are the best times of the year for eloping in Moab.

Best Seasons to Visit Moab

Avoid summer: Daily highs often soar into the 90s–100°F with intense desert sun. Make sure you pack plenty of water and shade gear if you do visit in the summer.

Peak season & permits: Spring and fall bring visitor surges. Arches National Park now enforces a timed-entry reservation system April 1–July 6 & August 28–October 31 (excluding July 7–August 27)

Best seasons: Fall through spring offer cooler temps and fewer crowds, and often better value on lodging and venues.

Best Days and Times for Eloping in Moab

Timing tips: Arches entry crowds build by mid-morning during peak season, so plan around that traffic.

Golden hour magic: Plan ceremonies approximately 1 hour before sunrise or 1–2 hours before sunset for that dreamy light, cooler temps, and fewer people. I’ve noticed that most people start to leave the parks around dinnertime, even if it means they’ll miss sunset. But that is great for us!

Permits & Park Entry for Eloping in Moab (Updated for 2025)

Arches National Park

Requires a wedding permit ($185): Must apply at least 4 weeks in advance

Timed-entry tickets required for vehicles from April 1–July 6 and Aug 28–Oct 31, 2025, 7 AM–4 PM; released three months in advance for a $2 fee.

Standard entrance: private vehicle $30; motorcycle $25; per-person $15, or use America the Beautiful annual pass ($80/year).

Canyonlands National Park

Requires a wedding permit ($185): Must apply at least 14 days in advance

No timed-entry tickets

Standard park entrance: $30 per vehicle, or annual pass holders use America the Beautiful ($80/year).

Dead Horse Point State Park

Requires a wedding permit ($60 + $15/vehicle park entrance): Must apply at least 30 days in advance

No timed-entry tickets

Pet-friendly (leashed dogs allowed): Big win if you’re including your pup!

BLM (Bureau of Land Management) Land

Photography permit required: issued only twice per year. Ensure your photographer has one and any other vendors that will be working on BLM Land.

Wedding Permit: Case by case basis and depends on how large your group is and what you will be doing for your wedding on BLM Land.

Top Locations for Eloping in Moab

There are so many beautiful locations for eloping in Moab! You might have a hard time choosing where just because of all of the spectacular places to choose from. But don’t worry, I’ll help you! Part of the process when working with me, is filling out a questionnaire. From there, I’ll send you recommendations on locations based on your wants and needs. Also be sure to check out my planning tips for eloping in one of our beautiful national park!

Arches National Park

Arches National Park is one of the most well known places in Utah. If you’re not familiar with Arches National Park, I’m sure you’ve at least seen a photo of the iconic Delicate Arch. As eloping becomes more popular, many couples are choosing Arches National Park for it’s beautiful red rocks.

This is definitely a spot where I recommend having your ceremony either at sunrise or around sunset. As I mentioned above, this park gets super crowded with visitors. And depending on the time of the year, the middle of the day can be incredibly hot because it is the desert!

This is a location where there are designated spots within the park where you can have a ceremony.

Those spots include:

• The La Sal Mountains Viewpoint
• Double Arch
• The Windows
• Park Avenue
• Devils Garden Campground Amphitheater
• Panorama Point

Other Iconic spots to take photos at in the park (we just can’t have a ceremony at these locations): Delicate Arch, Turret Arch, Sand Dune Arch

You can find this list along with how many people you can have at each location, regulations within the park, and permit information, here.

Canyonlands National Park

Canyonlands National Park is a little further out from the town of Moab, but it’s my personal favorite. And so underrated in my opinion! I hope I don’t jynx myself by saying this, but I have never had to wait to get into this park. I don’t think many people realize just how cool and breathtaking Canyonlands really is! And I’m honestly okay with that haha.

Just like Arches, Canyonlands also requires a permit to get married within the park, that is $385.

There are also regulations within this park, and you can only have a ceremony in the following locations:

• Grand View Point
• Green River Overlook
• Shafer Canyon Overlook
• Pothole Point
• Needles Group Campsites

Other Iconic spots to take photos at in the park (we just can’t have a ceremony at these locations): Mesa Arch, White Rim Overlook, Buck Canyon Overlook

You can find this list along with how many people you can have at each location, regulations within the park, and permit information, here.

Dead Horse Point State Park

Dead Horse Point is out near Canyonlands, and is another spectacular location. And a great option if you are wanting to include your fur babies on your special day! Where you’re not allowed to have dogs in the national parks, you are allowed to have your dogs on a leash at Dead Horse Point State Park.

This is another spot that typically has way less visitors than Arches, which makes it ideal for a small wedding ceremony and taking photos with just the two of you. Plus, Dead Horse Point provides epic cliff hanging views that will give your photos even more of a dramatic touch.

There is a permit required to have a ceremony here, and it costs $60, plus the $15 per car at the entrance of the park. Unfortunately, your national parks pass will not work for Dead Horse Point.

Just like the other two parks, there are designated spots where you can have your wedding:

• Shade Shelter Site
• Cliff Side Site
• Point Bench Site
• West Bench Site
• La Sal Site

You can find this list along with how many people you can have at each location, regulations within the park, and permit information, here.

Other Locations to Consider for Eloping in Moab

The three I have mentioned above are the most popular and loved locations to elope or have a small intimate wedding. However, there are many other places within Moab that would be just as epic and beautiful, on BLM Land.

A HUGEEE part of Moab is managed by the BLM. The biggest thing to know about considering being married on BLM land, is that absolutely any sort of photography requires a permit from your photographer. And that permit can be a little tricky to obtain, as it is a yearly permit and only given out twice a year. Make sure your photographer has the required permit. And if they tell you that they don’t need one, they are wrong.

The La Sal Mountains

If you want the best of both words (the rugged red rocks of Moab and the forest filled mountains and alpine lakes), the La Sal Mountains will be perfect for you. This beautiful place is just an hour outside of Moab and has perfect mountain views everywhere you look!

Castle Valley

Castle Valley is right outside of Moab, and has the most beautiful views of red rock buttes I’ve ever seen. If you’re wanting an elopement that feels like it’s straight out of an old Western movie, this is the place for you. Just be careful of the cryptobiotic soil out there. And please stay on the trails and leave the area better than you found it!

Moab Wedding Venues

The Red Earth Venue

If you are looking for an actual venue but wanting those iconic Moab views and vibes, The Red Earth Venue is perfect for you! This venue also offers guaranteed privacy, and you can hold a small reception right there in the same place! It is also on the way to Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park, making it easy to sneak away for photos and a private moment between the two of you.

Sorrel River Ranch

Sorrel River Ranch is a riverside retreat nestled on roughly 200 acres beside the Colorado River, and is just a scenic 20‑minute drive from Moab. Surrounded by towering red‑rock cliffs and mesas, it seamlessly blends rugged Western charm with upscale amenities.

Guests stay in cabin‑style suites, each featuring private decks or verandas, cozy living spaces, and spa‑inspired baths. Many rooms offer sweeping views of either the river or the surrounding sandstone formations.

Dining at the ranch follows a farm‑to‑table ethos, with seasonal ingredients sourced from the resort’s own garden. The River Grill offers upscale plates by the water, while casual fare is served on a shaded outdoor deck overlooking the river.

ULUM

ULUM (pronounced OO-lum) redefines glamping by merging high-end resort comforts with immersive desert adventure. Nestled on roughly 200 acres of sandstone terrain just south of Moab, it offers sweeping views of Looking Glass Arch.

Fifty safari-style canvas suite tents on raised platforms, each with a king bed, queen sofa, spacious 320–400 sq ft layouts, plus private decks. Interiors feature wood-burning stoves, evaporative cooling, beautiful desert inspired linens and furniture, and bathrooms with rainfall showers and luxury toiletries.

Red Cliffs Lodge

Red Cliffs Lodge is a scenic riverfront retreat located along Moab’s iconic Highway 128, about 25 minutes from town. Surrounded by towering red rock cliffs and perched on the banks of the Colorado River, the lodge blends rustic Western charm with modern comfort.

Guests can stay in cozy log-style cabins or suites with private patios, many offering stunning views of the river or castle-like cliffs. On-site perks include a seasonal pool, hot tub, fitness room, restaurant, and the Wild Horse Bar, plus a working horse ranch, tennis courts, and even a film museum celebrating movies shot in the area.

Activities to Do in Moab

Of course I encourage you to visit Arches and Canyonlands National Parks if you’re going to be in Moab. But there are so many different things you can do during your visit that will make for epic memories that you’ll talk about for years to come!

Here is a list of some of my favorite activities to do in Moab:

• Rent Jeeps or ATVs and go off roading
• Hiking
• Hot air balloon ride at sunrise
• Ranger guided tour in one of the parks or through the miles and miles of BLM land
• Stargazing (Arches and Canyonlands are both rated as Dark Sky Parks!)
• Rock climbing
• Helicopter/Airplane tour
• Scenic drive through Moab or Castle Valley

Where to Stay for You Moab Elopement

There are some great options listed above (ULUM, Sorrel River Ranch, and Red Cliffs Lodge), but there are so many cool and unique places to stay in and around Moab! Here are a few on my favorites:

The Caves at Moab

This is such a cool and unique Airbnb, that really immerses you into the Moab experience! This thoughtfully designed, multi-unit retreat tucked just outside of town, offers a peaceful desert escape with a communal bathhouse serving its four private units. The space blends clean, contemporary finishes with rugged touches. Expect cozy living areas, modern kitchens, and comfortable sleeping setups, all staged amidst impressive red‑rock views.

Arches Vacation Rentals

Arches Vacation Rentals offer a ton of beautiful places to stay, all around Moab! They all offer locations that are more budget friendly, which is always a nice perk! And they have locations that can fit just the two of you, all the way up to 26 people! You’re sure to find the perfect match, but try to snag one early as they go quickly!

Talking Mountain Yurts

Located up in the La Sal Mountain Range, these yurts are the coolest places to stay! In the summer you can drive up to them, but in the winter you’ll have to snowshoe or cross country ski to get there! Which would be such a cool experience for a highly adventurous couple that doesn’t mind the cold! In the summer, this is the perfect location to beat those desert heats you’ll get in Moab.

Glamping Canyonlands

Another great glamping location, Glamping Canyonlands is a husband and wife owned company that has a lot of great amenities to offer. Not only do they have an outdoor kitchen, hot showers, and coffee deliveries, but they also have a sauna to use, and each guests gets a complimentary sauna session with their stay. Talk about relaxation at it’s finest!

Base Camp Adventure Lodge

With views like the Amasa Back to the north, Hurrah Pass to the east, the Anti-Cline and Hatch Point to the south, and Canyonlands and Dead Horse Point to the west, with the Colorado River running along side, you’ll feel like you’re on your own little piece of desert heaven!

Where to Eat in Moab

You’re probably going to get hungry at some point. Or maybe you’re thinking of inviting your guests to a nice dinner somewhere in town after your ceremony, or having something catered. Whatever you choose, there are lots of places to pick from in this American West desert town!

My favorite coffee shops and breakfast spots in Moab:

• Moab Coffee Roasters
• Moab Garage Co.
• Gloria’s Corner Cafe
• Bonjour Bakery & Café
• Jailhouse Café

Restaurants for your celebration:

• Canyon Pizza Co. (Pizza)
• The Broken Oar (American)
• Pasta Jays (Italian)
• Susie’s Branding Iron Restaurant (American)
• Zax Restaurant (Pizza)
• Antica Forma (Italian)
• Blu Pig (BBQ)
• Sunset Grill (Steak House)
• Josie Wyatt’s Grille (American)

Example Timeline

Here’s an example of what an 8 hour day split for sunrise, sunset, and photos under the stars could look like! This is totally flexible and can be changed. Keep in mind that this is your day and I’m here to make sure you have a damn good time above all else. If you’re having an amazing time in one location, we can keep rocking it there! This is just a way for you to get a feel for what can be done during your elopement. A more detailed timeline will be sent out after a plan and location has been determined to help with travel time estimates. 

Time	Event
4:30 AM – 6:00 AM	Tiffany arrives to do hair and makeup
6:00 AM – 7:00 AM	Brittany arrives and we drive up to Oowah Lake
7:00 AM – 7:45 AM	Photo coverage starts. Photos and ceremony at sunrise at Oowah Lake
7:45 AM – 8:15 AM	Breakfast picnic at the lake
8:15 AM – 9:15 AM	Fish at the lake
9:30 AM – 11:00 AM	Drive back to Moab and take photos along the way
11:00 AM – 3:30 PM	BREAK
3:30 PM – 4:00 PM	Check out Courthouse Petroglyphs
4:00 PM – 6:30 PM	Drive through Kane Springs Canyon to Hurrah Pass with your Jeep and stop to take photos along the way
6:30 PM – 9:00 PM	Break for dinner
9:00 PM – 9:30 PM	Drive to The Windows Section in Arches National Park
9:30 PM – 10:30 PM	Stargazing and photos under Double Arch

How To Get To Moab

It’s a little out there, but there are a few options when planning your travels to Moab, Utah.

Flying to Moab:

If you are coming from out of town and plan to fly, you can do a couple of things!

• You can fly into the Salt Lake International Airport in Salt Lake City, Utah. And then from there, you can either fly right into Moab at the Canyonlands Field Airport, or you can rent a car and drive down to Moab. If you choose to drive, it is a beautiful drive pretty much the whole way, and there are many places where you can stop along the way to sightsee. The drive is about 4 hours long, so it’s not a terrible drive! But if you’re planning to make the drive in the winter and spring, be careful going through the canyon in Spanish Fork! It can get very snowy. Just take your time!
• You can also fly into the Grand Junction Regional Airport, and then drive to Moab. The drive from Grand Junction to Moab is about 1.5 hours.

Final Tips

• Try to plan ahead as much as possible. Once you book with me, I will be there every step of the way to help you through the planning process. And if you book one of our All-Inclusive packages, we’ll do a lot of the heavy work for you!
• Seasonal edge: Off-peak seasons offer better access, pricing, and privacy.
• Best times for elopements and photos: Sunrise/sunset = atmospheric light + low traffic + cooler temps.
• Hire an elopement photographer (me!) that knows the ins and outs of Moab and all of the permitting rules, epic and not-so-known locations, and best spots to stay and eat!