Zion National Park is one of the best places to elope in the U.S., with its red rock cliffs, canyons, and desert landscapes. If you’re considering skipping the big wedding and exchanging vows in a place that feels meaningful to you, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about eloping in Zion.

What is an Elopement?

Eloping is about focusing on what matters most—your commitment to each other—without the stress and expectations of a traditional wedding. Whether it’s just the two of you or a handful of loved ones, an elopement allows you to have an intentional, experience-driven wedding day in a place that speaks to you.

Where You Can Have Your Ceremony in Zion National Park

Zion National Park has designated areas where wedding ceremonies are allowed. Here are the approved locations:

• Temple of Sinawava – A riverside location with high canyon walls.
• Menu Falls – A secluded waterfall setting.
• Zion Lodge Lawn – A convenient, open area surrounded by trees with red cliffs in the background.
• Nature Center North Lawn – A grassy area with views of the surrounding landscape.
• South Campground Amphitheater – A shaded spot for a more private ceremony.

My Favorite Locations In The Zion Area

These are my personal favorite locations to elope in the Zion area! You can skip the crowds and find hidden gems by eloping outside of the National Park.

• Canaan Mountain Wilderness – Just south of Zion National Park, it’s perfect for adventurous couples who want both privacy and adventure for their elopement.
• Gooseberry Mesa – is a high-desert plateau with panoramic views of Zion and the surrounding landscapes.
• Smith Mesa – Just outside Zion’s western boundary and offers expansive views and an off-roading adventure. With its remote location, it provides a quiet spot for couples looking for a more private elopement.
• Kolob Terrace – One of the most scenic drives in southern UT. There are multiple trails and pull of areas that would be beautiful for your elopement photos.
• Timber Creek Overlook – Technically located inside the National Park and is part of Kolob Canyon, this is one of the approved locations for your ceremony. This is a quiet spot with wide views.
• Zion Canyon Overlook – This location is inside the National Park. A short hike leads to one of the best views in the area. You cannot have your ceremony here, but it’s perfect for portraits.

How to Elope in Zion: Getting Your Marriage License

To make your elopement legal, you’ll need a Utah marriage license. Here’s how:

• Where to Get It: You can obtain your license at any Utah County Clerk’s office, with Washington County (in St. George) being the closest option.
• Requirements: Both partners must be present with valid photo ID.
• Cost: Around $50 (varies by county).
• Waiting Period: None – you can get married the same day you receive the license.
• Expiration: The license is valid for 30 days.

Best Time to Elope in Zion

Seasons

• Spring (March–May): Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers.
• Summer (June–August): Hot with larger crowds. Early morning or sunset ceremonies work best.
• Fall (September–November): Cooler weather and fewer tourists make this one of the best seasons to elope.
• Winter (December–February): Quiet and peaceful. Snow dusting the cliffs adds a unique touch.

Weekdays vs. Weekends

Choose a weekday over a weekend to avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience. Weekends in Zion, especially in peak seasons, can be extremely busy.

Do You Need a Permit?

Yes! A special use permit is required for elopements and weddings inside Zion National Park. Here’s what you need to know:

• Permit Fee: $100
• Application: Apply at least 3 weeks in advance through the National Park Service website.
• Guest Limit: Most locations have a cap on the number of attendees (typically 10-50 people).
• Leave No Trace: To preserve Zion’s natural beauty, the park has strict guidelines, so no decorations, amplified music, or tossing of confetti/flowers is allowed.

If you plan to elope outside the park on BLM land, different permit requirements may apply, and I can help guide you through the process.

Do You Need an Officiant?

Yes, Utah requires an officiant to legally marry you—but the good news is that I can officiate for you! If you want to keep things simple, I can sign your marriage license while also photographing your day, allowing you to focus on the moment without the need for an additional person.

Utah does not allow self-solemnization, but if you’d like to exchange vows privately and sign your license later, I can guide you through the best way to do this while keeping the process stress-free.

Activities to Make Your Elopement an Experience

Your elopement isn’t just about the ceremony—it’s about creating a memorable adventure together. Here are some ideas on how to elope in Zion to enhance your day:

• Hiking to a scenic overlook – Angel’s Landing (permit required), Canyon Overlook, Observation Point, or The Narrows (can be unsafe during spring runoff).
• Jeep tour – Explore off-the-beaten-path locations in a 4×4.
• Helicopter ride – Take in the views from above, though flights can be affected by seasonal weather conditions.
• Horseback Riding – Explore the trails on horseback for a unique perspective of the landscape.
• Luxury Picnic – Enjoy a beautifully curated picnic with gourmet food in a scenic location.
• Canyoneering – Rappel down slot canyons and navigate narrow rock passages for an adrenaline-filled experience.
• Stargazing – Zion has some of the best dark skies for an unforgettable night.
• Camping or glamping – Stay in a cozy A-frame cabin or a yurt under the stars.
• UV tour – Discover Zion’s landscape in a whole new way with a guided UV night tour.

Where to Eat and Drink Near Zion

Whether you’re grabbing coffee before your sunrise hike or celebrating after your elopement, here are some great spots to eat and drink:

• River Rock Roasting Co. – Coffee, breakfast, and pastries with a view.
• FeelLove Coffee – Specialty coffee and organic food options.
• Zion Brewery – Craft beer and pub-style food near the park entrance.
• Cowboys and Angels – Steakhouse with Western-style dining.
• Oscar’s Cafe – Big portions and a casual vibe.
• MeMe’s Cafe – Breakfast, crepes, and sandwiches.
• Zion Pizza & Noodle Co. – Pizza and pasta in a relaxed setting.
• Bit & Spur – Southwestern cuisine and cocktails.
• Whiptail Grill – Mexican-inspired dishes with a view.

Lodging Options Near Zion

From glamping to boutique stays, here are some great lodging options near Zion:

• AutoCamp Zion – Airstreams and luxury tents for a unique stay.
• Open Sky Zion – Luxury canvas tents with modern amenities.
• Under Canvas Zion – Safari-style tents near the park.
• Zion Wildflower Resort – Bungalows, covered wagons, and glamping options.
• Zion Tiny Oasis – Tiny homes with big views.

Ready to Plan Your Zion Elopement?

Eloping in Zion is an incredible way to celebrate your love in one of the most beautiful places in the world. Hi! I’m Abby, your Zion elopement photographer! If you’re ready to start planning, I’d love to help you create an unforgettable experience. From location scouting and permits to photography and officiating, I’ll be there every step of the way. Now that you know how to elope in Zion, let’s start planning your adventure, contact me here!