Double Arch Elopement: How M & D Said Their Vows Beneath the Arches

Double Arch in Arches National Park is basically the A-list celebrity of elopement spots-iconic, totally Insta-worthy, and crazy accessible. If you’re dreaming of an adventurous, intimate “I do” surrounded by jaw-dropping red rocks, this is your spot. Here’s the scoop on what it’s really like to say your vows beneath these epic arches, plus all the must-know tips to plan your own unforgettable Double Arch elopement.

Not every love story needs a ballroom. Some just need red rocks, hiking boots, and a couple of people who’d rather trade tradition for an adventure.

That’s exactly what M & D did when they eloped beneath Double Arch in Arches National Park. They came to me knowing they wanted to elope somewhere in Utah, but they weren’t sure where — and let’s be real, choosing a February elopement spot in Utah takes a little insider knowledge. A lot of the state is mountainous and way above elevation, meaning many places are still buried under snow. But this place? This was just right.

Their day was calm, low-key, and quietly emotional — filled with genuine moments, thoughtful details, and just the right amount of dust on their boots.

Why Double Arch Is A Dreamy Elopement Location 

Double Arch isn’t just photogenic — it’s legendary. These twin sandstone arches rise like ancient gates in the desert, catching the light like something out of a movie (okay, literally, it’s in Indiana Jones). The hike is super short (.60/mile roundtrip), flat, and doable in a wedding dress — even with a bit of a train — and the view? Unreal.

For M & D, I recommended Double Arch because:

• It’s accessible year-round, which is rare for a lot of Utah’s rugged terrain in February
• The walk is easy but scenic
• The natural acoustics create a cozy, private-feeling ceremony space
• It’s close to other iconic spots for those “we eloped in a postcard” vibes

If you’re considering a Moab elopement or want to explore more stunning locations inside Arches, I’ve got guides that break it all down based on your season, hiking preferences, and how much red dust you’re okay with getting on your dress (spoiler: it’s worth it).

Moab Elopement Guide

Arches Elopement Guide

M & D’s Winter Elopement at Double Arch

M & D’s day wasn’t about showy displays or Pinterest-perfect checklists. It was about them. The emotion was quiet, steady, and real. Their first look was right outside their AirBnB with the La Sal Mountains in the distance — a snow-capped backdrop that could’ve made a grown hiker cry (me. I almost cried).

I bounced between them during getting ready, capturing the in-between moments: M’s dress hanging near the window, the gentle way D helped her into her hiking boots and pink socks. She wore a slight train, which we bustled up for the hikes. He rocked jeans and a dress jacket — the perfect blend of “I dressed up for this” and “I could sprint up a trail if I needed to.”

The whole day felt like a long exhale. No stress. No timeline panic. Just two people soaking it all in.

The Ceremony: Just the Rocks, the Wind, and a Few Unexpected Well-Wishers

We made the short hike to Double Arch in the early afternoon. It was slightly overcast (a photographer’s dream lighting), and although a few hikers were on the trail, we found a quiet pocket of space beneath the arches for their ceremony.

They led it themselves, with me officiating, and a few friendly strangers quietly paused at a distance, then offered warm congratulations as they passed. (One even helped us out by signing the marriage license — shout out to helpful strangers who are down to legally witness love.)

There were no chairs, no arch decorations, no rules. Just their vows, their boots in the sand, and a canyon breeze rolling through the rocks. It was exactly what eloping should feel like.

Exploring Moab After the Ceremony: 3 Parks in 1 Epic Day

After Double Arch, we hit up a few other iconic Moab spots (because when a couple says they want to see everything, I say let’s roll).

• A quick stop at Park Avenue to FaceTime M’s son and share the just-married joy
• Dramatic overlooks and desert solitude at Dead Horse Point State Park
• A romantic picnic + first dance with a golden-hued desert sunset at Canyonlands National Park

It was the kind of day that fills your lungs and your soul — no production to perform. Just the two of them, fully in it. Every stop was intentional, every moment soaked up without rushing. They didn’t just check off locations — they lived it. It was a day built around exploration, connection, and awe — the kind of “holy shit, we’re really doing this” energy that sticks with you long after the desert dust has settled. Full hearts, dirty boots, and zero regrets.

A Few Tips for Eloping at Double Arch

Thinking Double Arch might be your magical spot too? Here’s what to know before you go:

The Hike Is Short, But Sandy

The hike to Double Arch is short (just over half a mile round trip) and mostly flat, but it is sandy and has some rocky footing near the base of the arches. Wear shoes with good grip and don’t worry about your dress getting dusty — that wind-swept look photographs beautifully. I recommend a bustle for dresses with a train and comfy layers underneath if you’re eloping in winter.

Pack Like You’re Going on a Mini Adventure (Because You Are)

Water. Sunscreen. Snacks. Marriage license. (And maybe a spare pair of socks, because blisters are not the kind of “something new” you want.) Pack light, but pack smart-because nobody wants to hike back to the car mid-ceremony for a forgotten ring.

You’ll Need a Special Use Permit

All weddings in Arches National Park require a permit, yes even if it’s just the two of you. They’re easy enough to apply for, but they do take a few weeks to process. I help all my couples handle this as well as the legalities of how to elope in Utah so there’s no paperwork panic.

Weekdays = Fewer Crowds

If privacy is important to you (and it usually is during vows), plan for a weekday ceremony. Even in winter, Arches can see plenty of foot traffic. Mid-morning or late afternoon light works beautifully and also tends to be the quietest times for a ceremony.

Embrace the Unexpected

As much as we may try to get you complete privacy, it is never guaranteed in a National Park. A few curious hikers might pause to watch your ceremony. Some might even offer a heartfelt “Congrats!” or volunteer to sign your license (shoutout to the kind strangers of the world). Roll with it. This isn’t a ballroom-it’s an adventure. And adventures come with a few surprises.

Best Time of Year: Spring, Fall, or Winter

Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) are the sweet spots-mild temps, wildflowers or golden light, and fewer crowds than peak summer (though still, expect a few tourists snapping pics).

Winter (December–February) is weirdly underrated-quiet, cool, and sometimes you’ll luck out with snow-capped red rocks. Summer? Let’s just say triple-digit heat and crowds are not exactly romantic. Unless your love language is “sweating through your vows,” stick to the cooler months.

Timed Entry: Yes, Even for Elopements

Arches now has a timed entry system for much of the year (April 1–July 6 and August 28–October 31, 2025). That means you’ll need a timed entry ticket to enter the park between 7am and 4pm on those dates. But don’t panic: if you have a special use permit (like, say, for your elopement), you’re exempt from this rule. Still, it’s good to know, so you don’t get turned away at the gate and have to explain to your partner why your wedding is now a parking lot ceremony.

Lighting Is Gorgeous on Overcast Days

Overcast days in the desert are magic. The light is soft and flattering, the temperatures are more comfortable for hiking, and the red rocks look even richer in color. Don’t cancel if you see clouds — embrace it. (And I’ll adjust the timeline to get you the best possible light.)

What Makes Eloping With Me Different?

Eloping isn’t just a way to skip the guest list — it’s a way to reclaim what matters most. And I don’t just say that because I’m a photographer — I say that because I’ve done it myself.

My own elopement changed everything for me. It showed me that weddings don’t need to follow a script to be meaningful. They can be messy, quiet, spontaneous, imperfect, and still be the most honest version of love you’ll ever experience. That’s what I want for my couples.

When you work with me, you’re getting someone who understands what it means to let go of expectations, to choose something bold, and to build a day that reflects you. I’ll help you find your location, navigate the permits, give you planning advice that actually makes sense, and support you from the first email to the last photo delivery.

Because this isn’t just a shoot. It’s your damn wedding day — and it deserves to feel like an adventure that you would actually take.

Ready to Plan Your Own Double Arch Elopement?

If you’ve been dreaming about saying “I do” beneath a sandstone cathedral, here’s your sign. Whether you’re imagining a full-day adventure like M & D’s — packed with vows, views, and hitting multiple parks — or you want to turn your elopement into a multi-day experience that dives even deeper into adventure, we can make it happen.

Ready to start planning your Double Arch elopement? Click below, tell me your wild elopement dreams, and let’s start planning your desert adventure.