How To Elope In Utah | Utah Elopement Guide

Utah is hands down one of *the* most epic elopement destinations EVER! First off, the scenery is so unique. From fiery red rock formations, twisting slot canyons, towering hoodoos, and vast desert landscapes that look straight out of a sci-fi movie.

But Utah isn’t just deserts- you’ve also got soaring mountain peaks, lush forests, and sparkling alpine lakes for that perfect woodsy enchanted forest setting.

Eloping in Utah is a choose-your-own-adventure kind of experience. So grab your one-and-only and embrace the rugged romance while letting your passions and sense of adventure lead the way to an unforgettable celebration of your love.

Choosing Your Utah Elopement Location

Oh goodness, where to start? Utah is one of my top 5 favorite states because the scenery is so diverse. Did you know that Utah has 5 National Parks? And every single one of them would make an absolutely amazing elopement location!

I fell in LOOOVE with Utah the first time that I went there. Look, even the side of the road is freaking beautiful! All the heart eye emojis!

And if these locations aren’t enough to stop you in your tracks, Utah’s state parks are just as amazing, and usually a little less crowded than the National Parks. I’m only going to name a few here, but there are 46 state parks in Utah.

Dead Horse Point State Park
Snow Canyon State Park- see my Snow Canyon Elopement Guide
Antelope Island State Park
Goblin Valley

Make sure that you’re aware of any permits, regulations, and seasonal road closures for the location that you choose in order to make your celebration seamless. Several of the National Parks mentioned require reservations in order to enter the park. Your elopement photographer should be able to help you with this information.

How to Get Married in Utah

If you’re getting married in Utah, you’ll need a Utah marriage license, but you don’t need to be residents of Utah. You can get one from any county in the state, at the county clerk’s office, regardless of what county you’re getting married in. There is no waiting period. The county clerk issues a same day marriage license.

Both parties must apply together, in person. Brince one of these: your driver’s license, passport, state identification card, or original birth certificate.

You need 2 witnesses and an officiant to make it legal. Have them sign your license after your ceremony is performed then return it in person, or through the mail to the clerk’s office where they’ll record it and you’ll receive your official sealed certificate.

As an elopement photographer, I’d LOVE to help you with the details! It’s part of the services that I offer with my elopement packages. Get in touch with me today so that we can start planning your Utah elopement!

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What is the Best Time of Year to Elope in Utah?

If you’re looking for weather that’s not too hot, but not too cold, I’d recommend Spring and Fall. These seasons offer the most moderate weather out of the four seasons. But, depending on the vibe you’re going for, here are a few pros and cons for each season to help you make your decision.

Spring (March-May):

Along with the milder temps, there are less crowds this time of year. Fewer crowds means more time alone frolicking among the wildflowers, which will be starting to bloom! Or, right down the middle of the road, whatever makes you happy! The only tiny hiccup is that you may have a rogue snow or rain shower crash the party. But that’s ok. With the right attitude, raindrops = whimsy.

Summer (June-August):

Summer weddings in Utah are a sizzling celebration! You’ll have long summer days to snap photos until the very last drop of summer light. The only catch? It gets HOOOT, like surface-of-the-sun hot in southern Utah. And those pesky thunderstorms may throw a bolt or two of lightning into your plans.

Fall (September-November):

You’ll fall in love with Utah in the fall. The moderate temps are a dream come true. The crowds have thinned out, making way for clearer trails to enjoy those fall colors and use them as a stunning backdrop for your big day! Storms may be possible, but if it’s a winter storm, think how cozy it would be to bundle up next to a fire together!

Winter (December- February):

If you’re imagining a winter wonderland wedding, then this is your season! A pristine blanket of snow on those gorgeous red rocks will make your photos breathtaking! And with the smallest crowds of all the seasons, you can adventure about like you own the place! Just be prepared to bundle up because it gets nippy! You’ll probably want to make an earlier start of your day too, since shorter days means less time for pics.

Planning Your Elopement Ceremony

Why not make it an adventurous elopement? Hike to a remote vista and say your vows with that jaw-dropping view all to yourselves. Imagine exchanging rings while taking in sweeping vistas of crimson desert landscapes, towering hoodoos, or snow capped mountain peaks. Explore some slot canyons after your “I do’s”! You could even stargaze in one of Utah’s dark sky parks. There are more here than anywhere!

Don’t forget to add in all of those intimate personal touches to make your day extra swoon-worthy. Write heartfelt vows just for each other’s ears. Have a first dance in the desert at sunset. You could even have a sweet little reception at a unique Utah venue to celebrate with your nearest and dearest. For inspo, read about how one of my couples created their own traditions at their southern Utah wedding.

Elopement Activities

When it comes to elopement activities in Utah, the possibilities are endless and insanely exciting!

Why stop after the ceremony? In Utah, you can turn your whole elopement day into an incredible adventure! Rent a Jeep or UTV and go off-roading through rugged canyons to find your own private paradise! Or try something totally unique like dune boarding down massive sand dunes- talk about an adrenaline rush as newlyweds!

If you’re eloping in the winter, rent some snowshoes and go exploring. Talk about unique wedding photos! At night, you can cuddle up in a cozy yurt or cabin and enjoy a glass of wine in front of the fire.

For the adrenaline junkies, go canyoneering and rappel down stunning slot canyons. Or take it to new heights and go for a helicopter ride at sunrise or sunset.

Not into all of that heart-pumping action? Relax at a local brewery, go wine tasting, or set up a hammock and have a picnic. Your elopement should be whatever you want it to be.

Elopement Attire

Dressing for your Utah elopement is half the fun! You’ll want an outfit that lets you move freely without any restrictions. For the dress, think flowy, stretchy fabrics that will move with you and let you climb up to that vista. Lace, chiffon, crepe- those romantic yet sturdy materials are perfect. And if you’re worried about getting chilly, you can always layer on some flesh colored leggings underneath.

Decide if you want to hike in your wedding attire, or change near your ceremony location.

And let’s be real, those dainty adorable heels just won’t cut it out on the trails. You’ll need some sturdy kicks with good traction, like hiking boots or even some white sneakers.

Accommodations and Logistics

Selecting the right lodging option is crucial for a stress-free elopement. Cozy cabins, unique AirBnBs and boutique hotels make great photo ops. You could even go camping if you two are feeling adventurous.

Plan your transportation and travel logistics well in advance to eliminate any last-minute stress. If you’re flying, map out the distance from where you’re planning on eloping to find the closest airport. There are several major airports in Utah, but if you’re eloping in southern Utah, it may be closer to fly into Las Vegas, NV.

Are your wheels turning at the possibilities of what all you two could do, especially now that I’ve mentioned Vegas? Make it a multi-day celebration!

Opt for the high clearance 4-wheel drive vehicle if you’re consider exploring any backroads or if you choose to elope during a time that it may snow.

Leave No Trace

When you’re eloping in Utah’s great outdoors, following the Leave No Trace Principles is an absolute must. Like, NON-NEGOTIABLE. Let’s set an example for fellow nature-lovers and embrace these principles while reveling in the unspoiled beauty all around you:

Choose sustainable locations
Pack it in, pack it out
Minimize floral impact
Travel on durable surfaces
Respect wildlife
Eco-friendly celebrations
Educate and inform guests of LNT principles, which you can find here.

Post-Elopement Celebrations

While eloping is an intimate affair, you can absolutely still include your family. There are several ways to celebrate with your loved ones, whether it’s meeting up with them for a simple dinner or reception at the end of your day, a quick video chat, or reading handwritten letters from home. You could also have a reception back home at a later date, or just send out “We Eloped!” accouncements.

Remember this is YOUR day, and you can do it up any way that you want to! There is no wrong way to celebrate.

The bottom line is that Utah offers unbeatable variety when it comes to elopement backdrops and activities. This state really does have it all for the outdoorsy couple.