How to Elope in Moab, Utah

The Ultimate Moab Elopement Location and Planning Guide

Updated April 26th, 2025

What it’s like to elope in Moab

There’s a reason that outdoor adventure enthusiasts return to Moab time and time again. Not only does Moab offer some of the most incredible views in the world, it also has something for everyone at every level of adventure. Immerse yourself in the desert by hiking under an enormous sandstone arch, feel small while standing at the edge of a canyon, or feel the wind on your skin as you off-road along a bumpy dirt trail.

Moab landscapes:

  • Arches and natural bridges

  • Canyons and mesa

  • Rock formations

  • Slot canyons

  • Sand dunes

  • Rivers

  • Mountains

  • Dark skies - great for stargazing!

Moab elopement activities:

  • Hiking

  • Camping

  • Canyoneering

  • Off-roading

  • Stargazing

  • Rock climbing

  • Mountain biking

  • Ziplining

  • Helicopter tours

How to get to Moab

Moab is located in southeastern Utah, near the border with Colorado. If you plan to fly into Salt Lake City International Airport, you can expect the drive to Moab to take you about 4 hours. If you’d like to shorten your drive time, you can fly into Canyonlands Regional Airport, which is less than 30 minutes north of town. Another great option, especially if you plan to spend time in Colorado as well, is to fly into Grand Junction Regional Airport, which is less than 2 hours from Moab.

Land Acknowledgement: We acknowledge that when we recreate and gather in Moab and the greater Southwestern Utah region, we are on the ancestral lands of the Nuutsui (Ute), Pueblo, Paiute, Hopi, Zuni, and Diné nations.

 What’s in this Moab elopement guide?

Disclosure: Sometimes we use affiliate links in our elopement planning blog posts. This does not cost you anything, but it helps support the creation of these free, informational blog posts. Thank you for your support!

Best Time of Year to Elope in Moab

The Weather in Moab

Spring and Fall (High Season)

Spring (March, April, and May) and Fall (September and October) are peak season in Moab. During these months, the temperatures are milder and great for enjoying the outdoors. Because of the great weather, these months are when you will encounter the most crowds in Moab. We personally love to visit Moab in late October when the crowds have started to dissipate, but the colder weather hasn’t quite moved in yet.

Summer Season

During the summer months (June, July, and August), Moab quiets down a little bit as temperatures soar into the 90s. But this can be a great time of year to elope if you’re really looking for privacy. Our preferred way to escape the heat is to get up early and/or stay out late. We can’t imagine a more magical place to watch the Perseid Meteor Shower that peaks each year in mid-August.

Winter Season

If you’re up for chillier temperatures and want to avoid crowds, winter (January, February, November, and December) could be a perfect fit for you. Early November is another one of our favorite times to visit as the temperatures are still mild, but the hotel rates are lower and so are the crowds. Once you get further into winter, there is also the chance of a dusting of snow on the rocks and you’ll see snow on the La Sal Mountains in the distance.

Does it rain in Moab?

While Moab only gets about 10 inches of precipitation each year, it is possible to experience some rainy days. Rain in the desert can be very dangerous due to flash floods, so if you plan to explore any slot canyons in Moab, it is very important to keep a close eye on the forecast.

Does it snow in Moab?

It does occasionally snow in Moab in January and December. Usually it will just be a dusting of snow as December usually only gets a total of about 1.6 inches and January only gets about 1 inch of snow.

How to Avoid Crowds in Moab

Avoid dates with popular events in Moab

Moab draws a huge number of outdoor adventure lovers every year. From marathons, to bike races, to off-road vehicle meetups, there are many events that bring a large number of people to Moab each year. We always recommend that our couples be aware of the local events before selecting their date.

Elope at sunrise or sunset

One of the easiest ways to avoid crowds is to start your day before everyone else is awake or stay out after everyone else has gone back into town for dinner. With this trick, we’ve been been the only people in popular locations! But know that some super popular spots (like Delicate Arch) will likely have some people at all times of the day.

Venture a little bit deeper

Hike a little bit further than the average visitor. Get to some harder-to-reach locations by renting a Jeep or a UTV. Hire a photographer who can recommend locations that aren’t as well-known, but still just as beautiful. Consider a 2-day elopement and spend your first day exploring in Moab and then spend your second day visiting some nearby areas that get fewer tourists.

Elope in off-season

If you’re flexible about the weather, you could consider eloping outside of the peak spring and fall seasons. Sometimes even the shoulder months can give you great weather, but significantly less crowds and lower costs for accommodations! Our favorite month for this is early November.

The Best Elopement Locations in Moab

Arches National Park Elopements

Arches National Park had over 1.46 million visitors in 2024, making it the third most visited National Park in Utah. It is located about 15 minutes outside of Moab and known for having over 2,000 natural stone arches. In our opinion, Arches is a must-see when you visit Moab. Due to the park’s popularity, it can be very busy in the mid-morning and afternoons, so it is recommended that you enter the park before 8 AM or after 3 PM.

Hours and Info:

Ceremony Sites in Arches National Park:

  • Devils Garden Campground Amphitheater (80 people), La Sal Mountains Viewpoint (50 people), Panorama Point (50 people), Double Arch (25 people), The Windows (25 people), and Park Avenue (15 people).

  • You may also apply for other locations and they will be considered and approved on a case-by-case basis.

    • Devils Garden Campground Amphitheater Wedding Site:

      • Location coordinates: 38°46'33.1"N 109°35'22.8"W

      • ADA accessible: Yes - paved path

      • Chairs permitted: Bench seating included

      • Maximum group size: 80

    • La Sal Mountains Viewpoint Wedding Site:

      • Location coordinates: 38°37'36.6"N 109°35'28.7"W

      • ADA accessible: No - uneven rock surfaces

      • Chairs permitted: Case-by-case basis

      • Maximum group size: 50

    • Panorama Point Wedding Site:

      • Location coordinates: 38°43'09.1"N 109°33'14.0"W

      • ADA accessible: No - uneven stairs and surfaces

      • Chairs permitted: Bench seating included

      • Maximum group size: 50

    • Double Arch Wedding Site:

      • Location coordinates: 38°41'27.2"N 109°32'22.3"W

      • ADA accessible: No - packed dirt and sand

      • Chairs permitted: Case-by-case basis

      • Maximum group size: 25

    • The Windows Wedding Site:

      • Location coordinates: 38°41'04.9"N 109°32'03.3"W

      • ADA accessible: No - rock and wooden stairs

      • Chairs permitted: Case-by-case basis

      • Maximum group size: 25

    • Park Avenue Wedding Site:

      • Location coordinates: 38°37'30.4"N 109°35'60.0"W

      • ADA accessible: No - paved path and packed dirt

      • Chairs permitted: Case-by-case basis

      • Maximum group size: 15

Permit Details:

  • When to apply for your permit: 12 months to 4 weeks in advance. Spring and Fall dates, weekends, and holidays are the most popular and book up quickly.

  • Cost of a Arches wedding permit: $185

  • Cost of entry into Arches: $30/vehicle

  • Cost of ranger monitoring: $TBD/hr - this fee will be quoted on issuance of your wedding permit

Rules and Policies:

  • Dog policy: Dogs are NOT allowed. NEVER leave your dog in your car.

  • Florals policy: Dried plants and grasses are not allowed in floral bouquets.

  • Drone policy: Drones are NOT allowed.

  • Exclusive use: None of the ceremony sites in Arches offer complete exclusivity, so you can expect to share the space with other visitors.

  • Other rules: Amplified music, lighting, un-approved furniture, and decorations are not allowed in Arches. No throwing seeds, confetti, rice, etc.

  • Leave no trace: Stay on existing trails to access wedding site. Staying on trail helps protect plant life as well as the delicate biological soil crust - don’t bust the crust.

Reception Options:

Arches does not have any official reception spaces, but there are picnic areas scattered throughout the park.

Non-Ceremony Adventure Locations in Arches National Park:

    • Delicate Arch (3.2 miles round trip, moderate) - The most iconic hike in the park, and maybe even in all of Moab. Make your way up the steep slickrock trail to arrive at a freestanding arch, only supported by its own slender pillars of red sandstone.

    • Double Arch (0.6 miles round trip, easy) - A short walk from the Windows parking area leads to a small scramble upwards. The view of these two cavernous arches that share a support on one end is one of the most unique perspectives you can find in the park.

    • Windows Loop and Turret Arch Trail (1.2 miles round trip, easy) - This short and easy trail can be done as either a loop or out and back in 1.2 miles, giving you views of North Window, South Window, and Turret Arch.

    • Park Avenue Viewpoint and Trail (1.8 miles round trip, easy) - The alley surrounded on both sides by sheer rock faces is close to the entrance of the park, and honestly doesn’t require any hiking at all if you don’t want to. The very beginning of the trail near the parking lot has some of the best views of the area, and can be a great first stop in the park or last stop on the way out.

    • Landscape Arch (1.9 miles round trip, easy) - This short and easy trail leads to one of the widest, most impossibly skinny arches in all of Moab. All while passing through lots of desert foliage and views of other arches along the way.

Arches National Park Elopement

Michele and Nick started their elopement day with a sunrise first look at Delicate Arch, followed by a ceremony at Sand Dune Arch. That afternoon they hiked to another arch before ending their elopement day at Dead Horse Point State Park.

Arches National Park Timed Entry:

In order to help curb congestion in the park during the peak spring and fall seasons, Arches National Park requires visitors to make advanced reservations for their park entry. If you have a wedding permit for Arches, you will not need a timed entry permit to access the park on your wedding day.

  • Dates that require timed entry reservations:

    • April 1st through July 6th, 2025

    • August 28th through October 31st, 2025

    • All other dates do not require reservations

  • Times that require timed entry reservations:

    • 7 AM to 4 PM

    • You may enter the park before 7 AM or after 4 PM without a reservation

  • Special circumstances when timed entry reservations are not required

    • Camping, backcountry, Fiery Furnace, or special use permits (including wedding permits)

    • Concessions contracts, commercial use authorizations, or academic fee waivers

    • People from associated Tribal Nations

Canyonlands National Park Elopements

Canyonlands National Park stretches across 337,598 acres and consists of four sections: Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and The Rivers. Island in the Sky is the most visited section, and is located about 40 minutes outside of Moab. It offers countless trails and expansive views of the canyons below. The Needles is located about 1 hour and 30 minutes outside of Moab. It offers a backcountry experience that is best accessed by hiking and off-roading. The Maze is located about 2 hours and 40 minutes outside of Moab. It offers remote and difficult trails, this area is only recommended for those experienced in the backcountry. Experience the deep canyons of The Rivers section by boat.

Hours and Info:

Ceremony Sites in Canyonlands National Park:

  • Shafer Canyon Overlook (25 people), Green River Overlook (25 people), Grand View Point (25 people), Dutch Oven Group Campground (50 people), Wooden Shoe Group Campground (25 people), Split Top Group Campground (15 people), and Pothole Point (15 people).

  • You may also apply for other locations and they will be considered and approved on a case-by-case basis.

    • Shafer Canyon Overlook Wedding Site:

      • Region of the park: Island in the Sky

      • Location coordinates: 38°27'10.0"N 109°49'05.7"

      • ADA accessible: No - uneven stairs and surfaces

      • Chairs permitted: Case-by-case basis

      • Maximum group size: 25

    • Green River Overlook Wedding Site:

    • Grand View Point Wedding Site:

      • Region of the park: Island in the Sky

      • Location coordinates: 38°18'37.5"N 109°51'22.5"W

      • ADA accessible: No - paved path to viewing area, but ceremony site is on uneven rocks

      • Chairs permitted: Case-by-case basis

      • Maximum group size: 25

    • Dutch Oven Group Wedding Campsite:

      • Region of the park: The Needles

      • Location coordinates: 38°08'43.1"N 109°48'09.8"W

      • ADA accessible: No - flat, easy walk on dirt or sand

      • Chairs permitted: Case-by-case basis

      • Maximum group size: 50

    • Wooden Shoe Group Wedding Campsite:

      • Region of the park: The Needles

      • Location coordinates: 38°08'52.1"N 109°47'04.9"W

      • ADA accessible: No - flat, easy walk on dirt or sand

      • Chairs permitted: Case-by-case basis

      • Maximum group size: 25

    • Split Top Group Wedding Campsite:

      • Region of the park: The Needles

      • Location coordinates: 38°09'19.8"N 109°45'18.5"W

      • ADA accessible: No - flat, easy walk on dirt or sand

      • Chairs permitted: Case-by-case basis

      • Maximum group size: 15

    • Pothole Point Wedding Site:

Permit Details:

  • When to apply for your permit: 12 months to 4 weeks in advance. Spring and Fall dates, weekends, and holidays are the most popular and book up quickly.

  • Cost of a Canyonlands wedding permit: $185

  • Cost of entry into Canyonlands: $30/vehicle

  • Cost of ranger monitoring: $TBD/hr - this fee will be quoted on issuance of your wedding permit

Rules and Policies:

  • Dog policy: Dogs are NOT allowed. NEVER leave your dog in your car.

  • Florals policy: Dried plants and grasses are not allowed in floral bouquets.

  • Drone policy: Drones are NOT allowed.

  • Exclusive use: None of the ceremony sites in Canyonlands offer complete exclusivity, so you can expect to share the space with other visitors. The campsites will give you the most privacy as those are reservable spaces.

  • Other rules: Amplified music, lighting, un-approved furniture, and decorations are not allowed in Canyonlands. No throwing seeds, confetti, rice, etc.

  • Leave no trace: Stay on existing trails to access wedding site. Staying on trail helps protect plant life as well as the delicate biological soil crust - don’t bust the crust.

Reception Options:

Canyonlands does not have any official reception spaces, but there are picnic areas scattered throughout the park. If you reserve one of the campsites in The Needles District, there is space and picnic tables available for a casual reception.

Non-Ceremony Adventure Locations in Canyonlands National Park:

    • Mesa Arch (0.6 miles roundtrip, easy) - This is quintessential sunrise hike in Canyonlands with it’s East-facing views. Even at sunrise, you can expect to see many other people here.

    • White Rim Overlook Trail (1.8 miles round trip, easy) - Hike along the edge of the mesa and have views of the Colorado River, Monument Basin, and the La Sal Mountains. This hike may be challenging for people who are afraid of heights.

    • Grand View Point Overlook and Trail (1.8 miles round trip, easy) - This hike begins at the southernmost end of the scenic drive in Island in the Sky. There, you will see canyons below, The Maze, The Needles, and the La Sal Mountains.

    • Upheaval Dome (1.2 miles round trip, moderate) - This mysterious geological formation is thought to have been formed by the impact of a crater.

    • White Rim Road - If you’re looking for a multi-day camping adventure, then White Rim could be a perfect fit for you. This 100-mile off-road trail requires a permit for both overnight trips as well as day trips. We’ve camped for 2 nights on White Rim Road and had an incredible backcountry experience and saw very few people the entire trip. We did this in a lifted 4Runner and would suggest similar vehicles with a low range gear (4LO), such as Jeeps or trucks.

    • Shafer Trail - This is a great trail if you’re looking for something quick with great payoff. It starts near the Island in the Sky Visitor Center and snakes its way down the canyon, ending at Potash Road. The views from the road are incredible and the switchbacks add a bit of adrenaline.

Dead Horse Point State Park Elopements

Dead Horse Point State Park is one of our favorite places to elope in Moab. Similar to Canyonlands National Park, the views are absolutely stunning at all times of the day. It is located about 40 minutes outside of Moab and offers expansive views of the canyons below. Another bonus is that the park is dog-friendly!

Hours and Info:

  • Park open year-round: 6 AM - 10 PM

  • Visitor center open daily: 9 AM - 5 PM

Ceremony Sites in Dead Horse Point State Park:

  • Shade Shelter Site (100 people), West Bench Site (50 people), La Sal Site (25 people), Cliff Side Site (20 people), and Point Bench Site (5 people).

    • Shade Shelter Wedding Site:

    • West Bench Wedding Site:

    • La Sal Wedding Site:

    • Cliff Side Wedding Site:

    • Point Bench Wedding Site:

Permit Details:

  • When to apply for your permit: 18 months to 30 days in advance

  • Cost of a Dead Horse Point wedding permit: $60

  • Cost of entry into Dead Horse Point: $20/vehicle

  • Cost of ranger monitoring: $50/hr - not generally needed for most ceremonies

Rules and Policies:

  • Dog policy: Dogs are allowed and must be kept on a leash (no dogs allowed on the Intrepid Trail System). NEVER leave your dog in your car.

  • Florals policy: Live or cut flowers not allowed, faux florals only.

  • Drone policy: Drones are only allowed in Dead Horse Point from November through February with a special permit that costs $10/day.

  • Exclusive use: None of the ceremony sites in Dead Horse Point offer exclusivity, so you can expect to share the space with other visitors.

  • Other rules: Amplified music, lighting, furniture, and decorations are not allowed in Dead Horse Point. No throwing seeds, confetti, rice, etc.

  • Leave no trace: Stay on existing trails to access wedding site. Staying on trail helps protect plant life as well as the delicate biological soil crust - don’t bust the crust.

Reception Options:

Outdoor picnic shelters can be added to your wedding reservation. Dead Horse Point has 7 to choose from and we have been to them all and would be happy to share our favorite shelters with you!

Non-Ceremony Adventure Locations in Dead Horse Point State Park:

    • Are you having your ceremony elsewhere in Moab but want to visit Dead Horse Point just for wedding photos? This can be done as long as your photographer has a special use permit in addition to entrance fees. This process can be completed online and requires an updated commercial general liability certificate of insurance.

    • East and West Rim Loop Trail (1.1 miles round trip, easy)- This is our favorite trail in Dead Horse Point. It’s pretty short and easy, but it has some absolutely incredible views.

    • Dead Horse Point Rim Loop Trail (5.2 miles round trip, moderate) - This trail is perfect if you have some extra time and want to get away from some of the major crowds.

Dead Horse Point State Park Elopement

Kari and Ty eloped at sunrise with a small group of family at Dead Horse Point State Park. After their ceremony, they self-catered a brunch reception at one of the park’s picnic areas.

Moab BLM Elopements

Over 40% of the land in Utah is managed by the Bureau of Land Management. Some of our favorite elopement locations in Moab are on BLM land. One important thing to note about Moab BLM is that all locations require that your photographer and other vendors (such as videographer, florist, rentals, officiants, etc.) have an annual permit and insurance.

We have a Moab BLM photography permit that allows us to work here!

Moab BLM Contact Info:

Locations on Moab BLM land:

Permit Details:

  • When to apply for your permit: 30 days in advance (if your vendors already have a BLM permit)

  • Cost of a Moab BLM permit: $130/year + 3% of all package revenue that occurs on BLM lands

  • Cost of entry into BLM land: Free

Rules and Policies:

  • Dog policy: Dogs are allowed and must be kept on a leash or under voice command. NEVER leave your dog in your car.

  • Drone policy: Drone use must be authorized in advance by the BLM office.

  • Exclusive use: None of the ceremony sites in BLM offer exclusivity, so you can expect to share the space with other visitors.

  • Other rules: Amplified music, lighting, un-approved furniture or decorations are not allowed on BLM land. No throwing seeds, confetti, rice, etc.

  • Leave no trace: Stay on existing trails to access all locations. Staying on trail helps protect plant life as well as the delicate biological soil crust - don’t bust the crust.

Moab Elopement and Small Wedding Venues

If you’re looking for a ceremony space that’s a little bit more formal and established than the options on public lands, then Moab still has options for you. From glamping venues, to ranches, to resorts, and even on a boat going down the Colorado River, there’s something for everyone.

    • The reception space is a gorgeous, fully enclosed room with enormous wall to wall windows. The patio outside of the space is even bigger and has views of red rock cliffs, as does the ceremony space located just a quarter mile from the reception. You can drive to the ceremony platform if needed.

    • Address: 545 UT-313, Moab, UT 84532

    • Starting Price: $5,000 - mentions elopement packages but not details about them

    • Click here to learn more

    • This glamping venue has options for groups with less than 30 guests amongst its large canvas tents in the desert. Its location in between Arches and Canyonlands National Park makes it a good location for exploring all the different wonders of the Moab area.

    • Address: 13784 US-191, Moab, UT 84532

    • Staring Price: Not listed

    • Click here to learn more

    • Sorrel River Ranch is right off of the Colorado River, with large red rock formations on the opposite side of the water. Both of their decks can accommodate chairs and decor while giving you wonderful views.

    • Address: Mile 17 UT-128, Moab, UT 84532

    • Staring Price: Not listed

    • Click here to learn more

    • The property is located amongst the beautiful La Sal Mountains east of Moab, and consists of 7 cabins. Whispering Oaks Ranch includes their micro-wedding lawn space for no additional charge with certain lodge reservations:

      • Grey Dawn, Wildflower, and Sagewood - accommodating a total of 6-10 overnight guests

      • Cedar Bend Lodge Cabin - accommodating a total of 12-24 overnight guests and offering a detached deck that can be used for small wedding ceremonies

    • Address: 8105 S La Sal Mountain Loop Road, Moab, UT 84532

    • Staring Price: Not listed (~$3750 before taxes to book Cedar Bend Lodge 12-24 guests for 2 nights, ~$700 for 2-4 guests 2 nights at any of the smaller cabins)

    • Click here to learn more

    • Canyonlands by Night and Day is a tour operator who offers two wedding packages. One includes your ceremony on a boat as it navigates the Colorado River and the other shuttles you and your guests to a private beach along the river.

    • Address: 1861 N Hwy 191 Moab, UT 84532

    • Staring Price: Not listed

    • Click here to learn more

Did you know that some of the best mountains in Colorado are less than 2 hours from Moab?

Experience the best of Utah’s deserts and Colorado’s mountains with a 2-day elopement!

Don’t let state lines stop you from exploring two of the most iconic regions of the Wild West. With just a quick trip across the border, we could spend one day walking through sandstone arches and a second day off-roading to impossibly blue alpine lakes.

How to Elope in Moab

9 Steps to Plan Your Moab Elopement

  1. Hire a photographer (and maybe a videographer)

  2. Decide on your Moab elopement locations

  3. Build your elopement day timeline

  4. Apply for your permits

  5. Choose your elopement attire

  6. Hire your elopement vendors

  7. Book your travel

  8. Make plans to pick up your marriage license

  9. Elope!

Moab Elopement Packages

Are you looking for a team to help you plan your elopement in Moab?

Let us take the stress out of planning your elopement!

We’re Lisa and Alex, we’re elopement photographers and videographers! We specialize in helping our couples plan their dream elopements in beautiful places. Moab is one of our favorite places to explore and we can’t wait to share our love for the region with you!

Moab Elopement Packages

Moab Elopement Photography

  • 8 Hours to 2+ Days of Coverage - Learn More

  • 2 Photographers

  • Elopement Planning - Learn More

    • Collaborative Elopement Planning Portal

    • Customized Location Ideas

    • Planning To-Do List

  • No Additional Travel Fees to Moab

  • Payment Plans Available

8 hours starting at $7,500
2 days (12 hours) starting at $11,000

Moab Elopement Videography

Add videography to any of our photography packages!

Add a Highlight Film for $4,000
Add a Trailer Film for $1,500
Add both films for $4,500

Book your 2025 elopement in Moab by May 31st and get 50% off a Trailer Film!

 How to Leave No Trace in Moab

What is Leave No Trace?

Leave No Trace is a set of principles that help us make good decisions while in the outdoors. These principles are meant to ensure not only our safety, but also help us preserve nature and history for years to come. Leave No Trace is broken down into 7 principles, we’re going to break each of these down for your time in Moab.

If you’d like to learn more, you can take a free course through the Leave No Trace website!

In addition to preserving nature for generations to come, following these principles will help ensure that future couples can continue to have their dream elopements on public lands. In the 10 years that we’ve been capturing elopements, we’ve seen rules change and evolve for elopements on public lands. To be honest, we’ve seen rules become more strict as public land agencies react to record visitation and increased popularity of elopements in the outdoors. It is our collective responsibility to be good stewards of the land so that these privileges aren’t taken away.

Leave No Trace in Moab

Principle 1 - Plan Ahead and Prepare

Before heading out on your adventures, it’s important to always be aware of the rules and regulations of your location (particularly when you’re eloping). It’s also important to be aware of the weather and how the forecast could affect you. Even a slim chance of rain could become dangerous flash floods in the desert. And be sure to bring enough food and water for your time in the desert. Always know your route and have an offline backup for areas without service.

Principle 2 - Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces

Always stick to the trails or hard surfaces (such as rock) when you’re recreating in Moab. Much of the ground in Moab is covered in biologic soil crust. As you’re hiking along a trail, you might see a black crunchy-looking substance on the dirt and sand. This is a living crust, made up of cyanobacteria as well as mosses, lichens, and bacteria. This crust is extremely important as it helps resist erosion, absorbs and stores water, and helps plants grow. This crust can take thousands of years to grow, so when you hear someone say “don’t bust the crust,” this is what they’re talking about!

Principle 3 - Dispose of Waste Properly

Pack out all of your waste, and bring an extra bag to pick up trash that others have left behind. If you have to dispose of human waste, do so properly. If you are eloping, be aware of your bouquet “shedding” and always pick up any lost petals or flowers.

Principle 4 - Leave What You Find

Don’t take any rocks, plants, or historical artifacts with you. On many trails, you will see stacks of rocks indicating where the trail is. Do not move these rocks or build your own as this can be dangerous for other hikers and lead them off course. Moab has many stunning indigenous artifacts such as petroglyphs, rock art, and ancient Pueblo villages. Tread lightly in these areas and do not touch or deface the surfaces. Moab also has a mining history, with some of these ghost towns still existing. Be careful in these spaces and do not take any of the abandoned artifacts.

Principle 5 - Minimize Campfire Impacts

Always be aware of fire bans and make fires only where allowed. Never leave a fire unattended, and when you are done, know how to properly put it out.

Principle 6 - Respect Wildlife

Keep your distance from any wildlife and keep your dogs on a leash. Don’t feed animals or leave behind any food scraps that could be eaten by animals.

Principle 7 - Be Considerate of Others

This is so important for elopements. When you elope on public lands, you should be aware that you will be sharing the space with other visitors, so be respectful and considerate. Most visitors will be friendly and excited when seeing you, but never assume that you are owed priority because it is your wedding day.

 Where to Get Your Marriage License in Moab

Grand County Clerk & Auditor

Location: 125 E Center St, Moab, UT 84532 (Click here to view in Google Maps)

Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM / Closed Holidays

Click here to learn more about getting a marriage license in Moab, Utah

Requirements for a Utah marriage license

  • One form of valid, photo identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.

  • Both parties must be present to pick up a marriage license.

  • Utah marriage licenses cost $50 and come with 1 certified copy. It is suggested that you get at least 3 certified copies, this will be an extra fee (typically around $10/copy).

  • Utah does not have a waiting period for marriage licenses, you can sign it on the same day that you pick it up! However, we do suggest picking up your marriage license at least one day early in case there are any delays.

  • Utah marriage licenses issued in Grand County can be used anywhere in the state. This means that you can also get your marriage license outside of Moab, but still use it for your Moab ceremony.

  • Once you’ve picked up your marriage license, your ceremony must take place within 32 days. After that, your marriage license will no longer be valid and you will need to reapply.

  • After your ceremony, you (or your officiant) will return your signed marriage license to the county clerk & recorder office that you picked it up from. You have 30 days to return your marriage license, but we recommend doing it as soon as you can!

Who can sign a Utah marriage license

An ordained officiant is required to perform your ceremony and sign your marriage license. There are three kinds of officiants that you can choose from.

Two witnesses over the age of 18 are required to sign your marriage license. If you have an officiant, but no guests, Lisa and Alex can sign as your two witnesses. If Alex is officiating your ceremony, Lisa can sign as the first witness and then we usually find a friendly hiker in the area to sign as the second witness.

 Where to Stay in Moab

Home Rentals in Moab

The Moab area is packed full of amazing house rentals! We find that renting a house (or townhouse) for your elopement is typically more convenient than a hotel. Renting a house will give you more space and privacy when compared to a hotel. And if you’re traveling with a small number of guests, it can be very economical to share a larger house instead of having everyone stay in their own accommodations.

Some rental homes will even allow you to host part of your elopement day on their property! Whether that is a ceremony or a catered reception. If you plan to have part of your elopement day take place at your rental home, we recommend always reaching out to the property owner in advance to get approval. Some may require an additional fee or deposit.

Always be sure to read reviews before booking.

The Best Hotels in Moab

There are many hotels to choose from in Moab. You’ll find everything from campgrounds, to motels, to luxury hotels, to ranches. What you choose will depend on your budget and needs.

    • Click here to view on Expedia

    • Click here to view on Hotels.com

    • One of the first places we ever stayed on a trip to Moab is this impeccable glamping experience just north of town. There are several styles of tent available, ranging from a simple setup with just a bed and use of a communal bathroom, to a full suite with a bathroom, living room, and a sofa bed for the kids. But our favorite unit is their new stargazing tents, with a clear roof above the bed for watching the stars as you drift to sleep.

    • Click here to view on Expedia

    • Click here to view on Hotels.com

    • Quite possibly the most recent addition to the accommodation options around Moab is this small complex of ultra modern casitas. Each unit is at least 1600 square feet and features as many windows as you could imagine, full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and gorgeous outdoor patio spaces. The full complex hasn’t yet been developed and could soon feature even more amenities and options.

    • Click here to view on Expedia

    • Click here to view on Hotels.com

    • Red Cliffs Lodge somehow manages to effortlessly blend rustic, cabin charm with upgraded, modern amenities. While it may not be considered a luxury resort, it has everything you could need and then some. That includes just about any kind of adventure activity you could get up to in Moab, and patios for every room that overlook the Colorado river.

    • Click here to view on Expedia

    • Click here to view on Hotels.com

    • The luxury tents at ULUM are a perfect splurge for a once in a lifetime event like your elopement. Rated as a two Michelin Key resort (like a Michelin star but for hotels), ULUM is a unique and secluded stay south of Moab. Each tent is fully equipped with electricity, a full ensuite bathroom, and windows looking out to incredible views. The common area has a full restaurant, 3 small pools, fire pits, and lots of outdoor seating.

    • Click here to view on Expedia

    • Click here to view on Hotels.com

    • Stay here for a modern hotel that’s just 5 minutes away from all the main attractions in the town of Moab. Each room has either a kitchenette or full kitchen and the resort has a pool, 3 hot tubs, a small playground, an outdoor BBQ area with multiple grills, and some units even have multiple bedrooms.

 Where to Eat in Moab

The Best Restaurants in Moab

  • Antica Forma - Personal size neapolitan pizzas with dough and mozzarella made in house, as well as homemade pasta dishes.

  • Moab Food Truck Park - Featuring 14 unique and delicious food trucks, this is the spot to go for a casual meal when no one can agree what kind of food they’re in the mood for.

  • Birdy’s Finer Diner - You’ve been to a diner, sure. But not one like Birdy’s. Mid century modern design with a nod to the classic american diner, but with things like craft cocktails, wagyu steak, and lobster tacos.

  • Milt’s Stop & Eat - A classic Moab staple for burgers, fries, and a milkshake. Get it simple and classic, or topped with things like brisket or green chilis, and eat on the picnic tables after a morning of hiking.

  • Desert Bistro - More of a spendy night out than a casual dinner, Desert Bistro has a small ever changing menu of fresh, seasonal options. Come here if you want elevated classics with a modern flare, inspired by the historic cuisine of the region.

Adventure Elopement Packing Essentials

Moab Adventure Elopement Packing List

When you choose to have an outdoor, adventure elopement, there are some unique items that you may want to make sure you bring! We’ve compiled this list based on a general adventure elopement in Moab, but you may want to curate these items based on the activities you have planned for your elopement day.

  • Hiking Backpack - A good backpack is essential for not only carrying your things (sometimes even your wedding attire), but also for keeping your back and shoulders from getting sore. If possible, we recommend trying on hiking backpacks in person because each brand will fit a little bit differently. Click here to read REI’s tips for choosing the right hiking backpack. A backpack can also act as a really great “prop” for your photos. We love photographing couples hiking with a bouquet sticking out of the side and a “just eloped” sign hanging on the back of their backpack

  • Water Bottles + Reservoirs - You’ll want to be sure to pack enough water with you, particularly if it is warm out or if you plan to do any hiking. The amount needed will depend on the length of the hike as well as the time of year. We prefer water bottles over water reservoirs, but you can opt for either! Either way, be sure your water bottle will fit nicely in your backpack!

  • Hiking Boots - We see our couples wear a wide range of boots on their elopement days. When choosing your boots, be sure to choose some with good tread and break them in before your elopement day.

  • Headlamps - If your elopement plans have you hiking before sunrise or after sunset, then you’ll need a headlamp to light the way.

  • Trekking Poles - If the hike you are planning to do is particularly steep, rocky, snowy, or if you have weak knees (like Lisa), then we highly suggest trying out a pair of hiking poles. We love having lightweight poles that fold up to make them easier to travel with.

  • Safety Essentials - We always recommend being prepared for the unexpected, whether that is an injury or an unwanted run-in with an animal. We recommend bringing a first aid kit, sunscreen, bear spray, compressed oxygen, and hand warmers. If you’re bringing a dog, consider a dog-specific first aid kit as well as a dog rescue sling or rescue harness.

View all of our Moab elopement locations on a map

Elopement Planning Resources

We specialize in Colorado and Utah elopements

Planning, Photography, and Videography

Let’s work together to make your Colorado or Utah elopement dreams come to life!

We have been planning and capturing elopements for over 10 years and have captured over 250 elopements. We are so lucky to work with about 20 couples each year and show them some of our favorite places.

Are you looking for a meaningful and adventurous day in Colorado or Utah? We would love to get to know you!

This blog post was published on April 18th, 2025

How to Plan Your Elopement

Fall Elopement Ceremony in Colorado

14 Steps for Planning Your Elopement

Selina+Zach-199.jpg

What Does an Elopement Day Look Like?

Sunset Elopement in Washington

Should You Elope at Sunrise or Sunset?

How to Plan a Hiking Elopement

Sunrise Alpine Lake Elopement in Colorado

How to Avoid Crowds on Your Elopement Day

Rainy Colorado Elopement

How to Prepare for the Weather on Your Elopement Day

How to Plan an Off Road Elopement

41 Unique Ideas for Your Outdoor Elopement

Ouray-and-Telluride-Elopement-22.jpg

Learn More About the Vow of the Wild Elopement Planning Portal

What Does an Elopement Ceremony Look Like?

What Does an Elopement Ceremony Look Like

Elopement Ceremony Guidance + Ideas

How to Get Ordained Online

How to Self-Solemnize Your Ceremony

Check Out Our Instagram

The photos from your elopement that mean the most to you might change over time. We post a lot of the pretty couples in pretty landscapes because thanks to Instagram, that’s what gets clicks. But one of the most underrated aspects of our work i
Neither of us grew up hiking a lot. In fact, as a kid, Lisa “forgot” her inhaler on the day she was supposed to hike the Chautauqua trail with her summer camp. Some of the couples we work with are avid hikers, but many are beginners. In
Are you eloping with guests, but still want that quiet moment to share your vows without anyone present? Consider a private vow exchange! This allows you to have both experiences of a ceremony with your loved ones in addition to a private ceremony fo
💐How to incorporate color into your elopement day: • Choose a non-traditional color for your attire • Add colorful accessories (patterned ties, sweaters, veils, or patterned socks) • Add colorful florals (bouquet, boutonniere, or flo
Hear us out. We know it sounds a little odd to get dressed in the wilderness on your elopement day. But tree branches are a better place for your hangers than a closet, and no hotel room will have views quite like Mother Nature. (And if you’re
The time of day you choose for your elopement will have a big impact on your photos! This is one of the many reasons we recommend hiring someone who is a local expert for your elopement day, because we’ve seen every version of the places we rec