Eloping in the desert can feel both wildly freeing and a little overwhelming, especially if you’re figuring out how to elope in Moab for the first time. From permits and parks to where to stay and what to pack, this guide walks you through the essentials so you can plan a day that feels intentional, grounded, and true to you.

Eloping in Moab feels like stepping into another world.

Imagine waking up before sunrise, the desert still quiet and cool. Red rock cliffs glow as the sun comes up. You say your vows somewhere wild and open, with no crowds, no pressure, and nothing on the timeline except what actually matters to you. Maybe you hike a little, maybe you pop champagne, maybe you grab tacos in town after. That is the beauty of planning your elopement day around activities that make you happy. Your day gets to unfold exactly how you want it.

Moab is one of the most iconic elopement destinations in the Southwest for a reason. Between the dramatic landscapes, endless adventure options, and the freedom to design a truly intentional day, it’s a place that invites you to slow down and be present.

This planning guide was created to help make planning your elopement clear, grounded, and exciting, not overwhelming. Below, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to elope in Moab with confidence.

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When Should You Elope in Moab?

Utah is one of the few places where you can elope year-round. From snow-dusted red rocks to warm desert sunsets and golden fall days. The key is choosing a season that fits your vision, comfort level, and priorities.

One thing I always recommend, no matter the season: weekday elopements. Moab and Utah’s National Parks are extremely popular, and choosing a Monday–Thursday date gives us more privacy, easier parking, and a much more relaxed experience overall.

Below is a breakdown of what each season looks like specifically for Moab and Southern Utah elopements.

Spring (March–May)

Best for: Comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, desert blooms

Spring is one of my favorite times to elope in Moab. While northern Utah is still snowy and muddy, Southern Utah warms up beautifully, making it ideal for desert locations.

• March & April are especially great for Moab because of its mild weather, quieter parks, and incredible light
  
• May brings warmer temps and more visitors, but is still lovely with smart timing
  

Things to know:
• Spring break crowds peak in late March
• Higher elevation trails may still be inaccessible
• Desert weather can shift quickly. Layers matter!

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Summer (June–August))

Best for: Sunrise ceremonies, adventurous couples, mountain elopements elsewhere in Utah

Summer in Moab is hot — often 90s–100s+. That doesn’t mean it’s off the table, but it does require thoughtful planning.

• Sunrise or sunset-only ceremonies
  
• Shaded locations, water access, and slower pacing
  
• Dramatic monsoon clouds can create stunning skies
  

If you’re open to mountains, summer is incredible elsewhere in Utah, but for Moab specifically, I recommend summer only for couples comfortable with heat and early mornings.

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Fall (September–November)

Best for: Ideal weather, golden light, peak elopement season

Fall is hands-down the most popular time to elope in Moab. For a good reason too.

• Daytime temps are perfect
  
• Cooler mornings and evenings
  
• Crowds begin to thin after Labor Day
  

Things to know about each month:

• September & October are peak months and book quickly.
• November is an underrated favorite. There are fewer people, cooler temps, fall color changes, and still-accessible desert locations.

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Winter (December–February)

Best for: Privacy, dramatic landscapes, adventurous couples

Winter elopements in Moab are quiet, intimate, and incredibly beautiful. Snow against red rock is unreal, and crowds are minimal.

• Cold mornings (20s–40s)
  
• Shorter daylight hours
  
• Occasional snowstorms (usually manageable)
  

Southern Utah parks stay far more accessible in winter than mountain regions, making Moab a great option for couples who want solitude and moodier vibes.

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Season	Weather	Crowds	Best For	Things to Consider
Spring	Mild (60s–70s)	Moderate	Comfortable temps, blooming desert, hiking	Spring break crowds late March, weather can shift quickly
Summer	Very hot (90s–100s+)	High	Sunrise/sunset elopements, adventurous couples	Heat, limited midday options, thunderstorms
Fall	Ideal (60s–80s)	Moderate–High	Most couples, perfect weather and light	Peak season books fast, weekends busier
Winter	Cold (20s–40s)	Low	Privacy, dramatic red rock + snow	Shorter days, cold mornings, flexible planning needed

Expert Tip:

If you want the best balance of weather, light, and privacy, I typically recommend:
April–May or September–November, ideally on a weekday.

That said, every season can be magical with the right location, timing, and expectations. Part of my job is helping you choose what works best for you, not just what’s “popular.”

Moab is a year-round destination, but the experience changes dramatically by season. Choosing the right time of year can make all the difference for comfort, crowds, and overall vibe.

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Do You Need a Permit to Elope in Moab?

Permit requirements depend entirely on where you choose to elope. This is one of the most confusing parts of planning for couples. But the easy answer is most likely you do. 

Arches National Park

Ceremonies require a Special Use Permit.

• Apply 2–4 months in advance
• Permit fee varies (check current NPS pricing)
• Restrictions include no chairs, arches, or structures
• Popular locations fill quickly

Canyonlands National Park

Also requires a Special Use Permit.

• Generally less crowded than Arches
• Slightly easier to secure permits
• Similar application timeline and rules

Dead Horse Point State Park

• State park permit required
• Easier process than national parks
• Beautiful overlooks and accessible locations

BLM Land & Private Property

Many iconic locations do not require permits for small ceremonies, including:

• Corona Arch
• Fisher Towers
• Castle Valley

These areas offer far more flexibility, privacy, and fewer restrictions 

How I Help: I know which locations require permits and which don’t, and I’ll guide you through the process so you don’t waste time (or money) on unnecessary paperwork.

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What Could a Moab Elopement Day Look Like?

Every elopement I photograph is custom-built around the couple, season, activities, and energy level. That being said, here is a generic timeline that shows what a full day, 12 hour elopement looks like. 

4:30am: Wake up, coffee, getting ready in a special airbnb/location, write vows together

5:30am: Drive to location

6:00am: Sunrise ceremony

7:00am: Portraits

8:00am: Breakfast picnic

9:00am: Drive to next location

10:00am: Horseback riding

1:00pm: Drive back to airbnb

2:00pm: Freshen up/rest

4:00pm: Drive to final location

4:30pm: Short hike 

5:00pm: Champagne pop/share some donuts

5:30pm: Sunset portraits

7:00pm: hike back to car/drive back

My Approach:
I build timelines around light, weather, and how you actually want to feel (not a rigid schedule).

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Best Places to Stay for Your Moab Elopement

There are a lot of options for where to stay in Moab for your elopement. I would recommend getting into town at least a couple days before the ceremony (depending on what day you are eloping), so that you have enough time to go to the courthouse to get your marriage license and to acclimate a bit to the elevation if you are not used to it. 

You can stay in town which offers easy access to restaurants and shops, but offers less privacy and likely will have more tourists. Airbnbs and cabins offer privacy and unique locations that make for not only a wonderful and different experience but also great getting ready photos. Since these are so special they often book up fast, so may not be available if your elopement is fast approaching. Things to look for: natural light, outdoor space, and proximity to locations that we are doing for your elopement day to cut down on travel time. 

There are also some very cool options such as glamping, where you can experience a night under the stars like no other. One location to check out is Under Canvas Moab. It is perfect for couples wanting something memorable and immersive. As a client, you will get a comprehensive list of places to stay and my personal recommendations after booking. 

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Moab Elopement Packing List

When you decide to work with me, I will customize a full packing list to make sure that you are not missing anything when you arrive for your elopement day. In the meantime, here are a few suggestions that you may want to consider. 

Clothing

• Layers (desert temps swing fast)
• Comfortable hiking shoes
• Wind-friendly jacket

Desert Essentials

• Water (more than you think)
• Sunscreen
• Snacks
• Hat and Sunglasses

Ceremony Must-Haves

• Vows (written down)
• Rings
• Marriage License
• Champagne

Photo Day Extras

• Touch-up makeup
• Hair products (Seriously, the wind is for real!)
• Stain stick
• Safety pins

When you book with me:
You’ll receive a personalized packing list based on your season and locations.

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Getting Legally Married in Utah

Marriage License

• Obtain through Grand County Clerk (Moab)
  
• No waiting period
  
• Cost: ~$50
  
• Both parties must be present
  
• Not required to be Utah residents
  

I recommend picking it up at least one day before your elopement.

Officiant Requirements

• Utah does not allow self-solemnization
  
• An officiant is required
  
• I’m legally able to sign your marriage license at no additional fee
  
• If you want a traditional ceremony with prompts and guidance, I recommend hiring a dedicated officiant since I’ll also be photographing your day
  

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How Far in Advance Should You Plan?

• 6+ Months: Ideal
  
• 3–6 Months: Most common
  
• Under 3 Months: Still possible with flexible locations
  

I’ve planned elopements in as little as six weeks, it just requires intention and the right guidance.

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Final Thoughts

Knowing how to elope in Moab isn’t about doing everything perfectly; it’s about understanding the landscape, the rules, and what actually matters to you. With the right planning, this landscape becomes the backdrop for something unforgettable rather than stressful.

You don’t have to figure all of this out on your own. This is exactly why I don’t just show up with a camera.  I help you plan your locations, timeline, logistics, and experience from start to finish.

Ready to start planning your Moab elopement?
I provide location scouting, permits guidance, custom timelines, and photography that tells the full story of your day.

👉check out my website and package options

If you’re still dreaming, planning, or just gathering ideas, I share a lot more Moab elopement tips, behind-the-scenes moments, and real-day advice over on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram.
Follow along for planning help, location inspiration, and honest insight into what eloping out here really looks like — no pressure, just guidance 🤍

👉 YouTube: Moab elopement planning videos

👉 TikTok: quick planning tips + timelines

👉 Instagram: real elopement days + inspiration