Why Elope in Zion?

Zion National Park is one of the most stunning places in the Southwest to elope, with its dramatic rock formations, expansive landscapes, and secluded spots to say your vows. Beyond the beauty of the park, Zion elopement locations offer plenty of adventure opportunities, including hiking, horseback riding, off-roading, canyoneering, and even helicopter tours for stunning aerial views.

The surrounding towns, like Springdale, provide a variety of accommodations and restaurants, from luxury resorts to cozy vacation rentals, ensuring a comfortable stay for you and your guests. These Zion elopement locations offer a unique combination of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation—making it a great destination if you want to make your elopement an experience.

However, getting married in a national park comes with specific rules and regulations. If you’re considering an elopement in Zion, it’s essential to know where you can legally hold a ceremony and what alternative options exist just outside the park for a more private experience.

Approved Zion Elopement Locations Inside the Park

Zion allows wedding and elopement ceremonies only at designated locations inside the park, which require a Special Use Permit. Guest capacity varies depending on the site, and while these Zion elopement locations provide the iconic beauty of Zion, they are also popular, meaning you may have onlookers during your ceremony. I recommend eloping on a weekday at sunrise for the most privacy.

Temple of Sinawava

Located at the end of Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, near the start of the famous Narrows hike, this spot offers stunning canyon walls and the Virgin River as a backdrop. It’s a sought-after location, but keep in mind it can get crowded.

Menu Falls

This is a small, tucked-away waterfall that provides a peaceful setting for a ceremony. It’s ideal for couples seeking a quieter space within the park. However, it’s less accessible compared to other spots.

Zion Lodge Lawn

Located in front of the historic Zion Lodge, this is one of the more accessible options with easy access for guests. It’s a great choice if you plan to include family in your elopement, but it can also attract visitors since it’s near the park’s main facilities.

Nature Center North Lawn

This open space offers views of surrounding cliffs and is convenient for accessibility, making it a good option for couples needing a larger space within the park.

Timber Creek Overlook

Located in the Kolob Canyons section of Zion, this spot provides wide views and is perfect for couples who want a more remote location away from the crowds of the main canyon.

South Campground Amphitheater

This is a more structured setting with wooden benches for seating, accommodating guests for larger ceremonies, but it’s more formal compared to the other natural spots.

Permitting Information for Zion Elopements

To elope inside Zion National Park, you’ll need to obtain a Special Use Permit. Applications should be submitted at least three weeks in advance, and the permit fee is $100. This permit is required for all ceremonies inside the park, regardless of size. Additional restrictions include limits on decorations, amplified sound, and certain activities, so it’s important to review the official guidelines to ensure compliance.

However if you are not having your legal ceremony in the park and only plan to take portraits, a permit is no longer required under the Explore act.

Elopement Locations Near Zion National Park

If you’re looking for Zion elopement locations with more privacy, there are several incredible locations just outside Zion National Park that offer seclusion, fewer restrictions, and the same stunning scenery. These locations are still close to Zion, but you’ll be able to escape the crowds and plan a more flexible day. I won’t be sharing any specific locations, as I save the best spots for my clients, but here are some general areas.

Gooseberry Mesa

is a high-desert plateau with panoramic views of Zion and the surrounding landscapes. With its rugged terrain and wide-open skies, it’s a perfect spot for couples up for a hike seeking a secluded and stunning location for their elopement. Gooseberry Mesa is a popular location for mountain biking, so you’ll have a higher chance of running into some bikers if you go on a weekend.

Red Cliffs National Conservation Area

Roughly an hours drive from the south entrance of Zion NP, Red Cliffs National Conservation Area is known for its red rock cliffs and scenic landscapes. It’s a great option for couples looking for a secluded setting with fewer crowds. The area offers a variety of terrain, including desert landscapes, rock formations, and hiking opportunities. This is a perfect location for a private and adventurous elopement.

Canaan Mountain Wilderness

For couples looking for a truly secluded elopement, Canaan Mountain Wilderness offers rugged terrain and incredible views, with fewer crowds than Zion. The area is known for its vast desert landscapes, canyons, and unique rock formations. Perfect for adventurous couples, the Canaan Mountain Wilderness provides opportunities for hiking and exploration, making it an excellent choice for an intimate elopement in the wild.

Smith Mesa

About 20 minutes from Zion National Park, Smith Mesa offers expansive views of Zion National Park to the east and Gooseberry Mesa to the south, with fields, cattle, and scattered cabins stretching across its high plateau. The mix of open grassland and desert scenery makes it a unique and stunning elopement location, far removed from the crowds. A 4×4 vehicle is recommended.

Pine Valley Mountain Wilderness

With its dense pine forests and alpine meadows, this area feels completely different from the desert landscapes of Zion, despite being nearby. The higher elevation brings cooler temperatures and a quieter, mountain setting for your elopement.

Best Times to Elope in the Zion Area

Choosing the right season for your Zion elopement is essential. Some Zion elopement locations may be less accessible due to weather, and Zion’s climate can vary significantly through the year.

• Spring (March-May): Spring offers mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers, making it a fantastic time to elope. However, it’s also one of the busiest seasons, so consider early morning or weekday ceremonies to avoid the crowds.
• Summer (June-August): The summer months can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F. It’s best to elope during sunrise or sunset, especially at higher elevations like Kolob Canyon or Gooseberry Mesa, to escape the heat.
• Fall (September-November): Fall offers cooler temperatures and fewer visitors, making it an ideal time to elope. The changing foliage in higher elevations adds an extra touch of beauty.
• Winter (December-February): Winter provides a peaceful experience with fewer crowds. Snowfall can create stunning contrasts against the red rock formations, but some areas may be less accessible due to snow and ice.

Choosing the Right Zion Elopement Locations

Deciding on your Zion elopement location depends on what you envision for your day. If you prefer a ceremony inside the national park, the designated locations will be your best bet. For those seeking privacy and adventure, the surrounding areas outside the park offer plenty of incredible alternatives. Whichever location you choose, Zion guarantees an unforgettable experience surrounded by nature.

If you’re ready to plan your Zion elopement, I’m here to help you find the perfect spot and make the process as seamless as possible. I’m Abby, your Zion Elopement Photographer! Contact me here to get started on planning your dream elopement.