Cave Creek, AZ Elopement

Cave Creek, AZ is a beautiful desert town located in the Sonoran Desert. The town is known for its rugged landscape, stunning natural beauty, and Old West charm. It’s the perfect location for nature lovers and couples seeking a unique and picturesque elopement destination. Cave Creek is surrounded by stunning mountain vistas and boasts a variety of natural wonders, including the Tonto National Forest and Cave Creek Regional Park. The town is also home to a number of unique and historic sites, such as the Cave Creek Museum and the Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area.

Whether you’re looking for a scenic outdoor ceremony or a rustic indoor venue, Cave Creek has plenty of options to choose from. From intimate desert oases to grand ballrooms with stunning views, there’s something for every couple in this charming town. So if you’re dreaming of a desert elopement in Arizona, look no further than Cave Creek. With its breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, and unique charm, this town is the perfect place to say “I do” and then start your new life together.

In this guide I will go over all the little details of planning an elopement in Cave Creek, Arizona!

How to Elope in Arizona

With its breathtaking scenery and small-town charm Cave Creek can be the perfect place to say “I do”! Just imagine having an intimate ceremony surrounded by Arizona’s stunning desert landscape. If you’re looking for an adventurous and unique way to get married, eloping in Zion might be the perfect option for you. But before we can get to the adventure, there are a few details to prepare for to get married in Arizona! Here are the logistics when to comes to planning your Cave Creek elopement:

Permits

To elope in Cave Creek you may need a permit, however, this is location and detail dependent. The trails in Cave Creek most often do not require any special use permit, but State Parks may require a permit and an additional fee. National Parks will almost always require a special use permit and/or photographer’s permit.

Tonto National Forest:

Hosting a wedding on the Tonto National Forest is an easy process! There are no fees for weddings, but if you plan to use an existing recreation site, Tonto Daily Passes or recreation site fees are required for each car. You’ll need to contact the National Forest Permit Administrator to prepare for any updated info and submit an application 30 days in advance of your event. Keep in mind that you won’t be able to block, close, or reserve any portion of the public land or recreation site for your wedding, and then the general public will have access to the area at all times. If you want a “private” ceremony, it’s recommended that you book a campsite through rec.gov.

Maricopa County Parks and Recreation

To have a wedding at one of the Maricopa County Parks you’ll need to apply for a Special Use Permit ($100) and then follow any rules as given. Park Impact Fees are also required and are determined based on the event type, size, scope, and any additional factors that impact park operations. 

Marriage License

Getting all the legalities of an elopement in order is essential to your planning. Some couples choose to get their paperwork done at home beforehand, while others do their marriage filing in the county they elope in. If you want to legally get married in Cave Creek here’s some info and resources to get you started:

Getting all the legalities of an elopement in order is essential to your planning. Some couples choose to get their paperwork done at home beforehand, while others do their marriage filing in the county they elope in. If you want to legally get married in Sedona here’s some info and resources to get you started:

+ There is no residency requirement. You can obtain a marriage license in Arizona even if you do not live in the state.

+ The fee for a marriage license is $83.00

+ Both parties must be over 18 years old and present at the time of application.

+ 2 witnesses over the age of 18 are required

Marriage Licenses | Maricopa County Clerk of Superior Court

Where to Stay in Cave Creek

When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay in Cave Creek, Arizona, there are plenty of great options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a luxury resort, a peaceful retreat, or a cozy bed and breakfast, this charming desert town has something to offer every kind of traveler. Even if you’re from Arizona, consider making your elopement an extended holiday and book a hotel for at least 2 nights! It can be a great way to relax and have time to explore the area more.

Here’s a list of the top place to stay in Cave Creek:

Rancho Manana Resort. One of the most popular places to stay in Cave Creek is the Rancho Manana Resort. Located in the heart of town, this beautiful resort offers a wide range of accommodations, including villas, suites, and casitas. The resort has a spa, pool, and golf course, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind after a busy day of adventure!

CIVANA. If you’re looking for a resort that’s just a short drive from Cave Creek, CIVANA Resort is another great option. This upscale hotel is located just minutes away from town and offers a range of accommodations! The resort features a spa, pool, on-site dining options, making it a great spot to enjoy after your elopement!

The Boulders Resort & Spa. For those who are looking for a truly luxurious experience, the Boulders Resort & Spa is the perfect choice. Located in nearby Scottsdale, this beautiful resort offers a wide range of accommodations, including guest rooms, suites, and villas. The resort features a spa, several pools, and two championship golf courses, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy some time in the sun.

Airbnb: Booking an Airbnb can be a great alternative to a traditional hotel. You often get more home-like amenities like a full kitchen, laundry, and sometimes a yard! You get more unique accommodation, with often better light than in a hotel room!

No matter which of these great options you choose, you’re sure to enjoy your time in Cave Creek. With its stunning natural beauty, unique Old West charm, and wide range of accommodations and activities, this town is the perfect destination for your elopement or romantic getaway. So why wait? Start planning your trip to Cave Creek today and get ready to experience all that this beautiful desert town has to offer!

What activities to do at your Cave Creek, AZ Elopement

Planning an adventure elopement gives you so much freedom to have a full-day experience (or as long as you want!) Stay for the week, book fun activities, get out and explore all the beauty that Arizona has to offer! Here are some adventure elopement experience ideas for Sedona!

• Horseback Riding with Cave Creek Trail Rides
• Hot air balloon ride with Arizona Balloon Safaris
• Go ride an ATV or 4wheeler in the desert
• Off roading with a jeep
• Hike on of the many local trails
• Enjoy a picnic or private chef experience
• Cater food to your airbnb
• Rent a mountain bike with Spur Cross Cycle
• Book a spa session and relax after being out in the desert

When to Elope in Cave Creek, AZ

Cave Creek, AZ is a beautiful place to get married year-round, really! BUT there are some factors to consider when choosing the best time for your elopement.

Weather

Cave Creek has a desert climate, which means that temperatures can be extreme, especially in the summer months. The hottest months of the year are June-September, with temperatures averaging in the high 90s. Although sometimes exceeding 100 degrees F! If you’re planning an outdoor elopement, it’s best to avoid these months, as the heat can be unbearable. OR consider having a sunrise elopement!

Seasons

Fall: Fall in Cave Creek, AZ is a beautiful time to get married. From September to November, the temperatures are mild, with average highs in the mid-70s to low 80s. The leaves on the trees start to change, creating a beautiful backdrop for your ceremony. Plus it’s that sweet spot where the daylight is still plentiful, but the evenings cool off! Fall is also a less busy time of year for tourists, so you’ll have more options when it comes to accommodations and vendors.

Winter: This can be a great time for an elopement in Cave Creek, as the town is decorated for the holiday season and there are often special events and activities taking place. While the temperatures can be cooler, with average highs in the mid-60s to low 70s, the sunny weather and dry climate make it a comfortable time for outdoor ceremonies. The holiday season also adds a festive touch to the town, with lights and decorations creating a cozy atmosphere. Keep in mind that winter is also the busiest tourist season in Arizona, so you’ll need to book your accommodations and vendors well in advance to ensure availability.

Spring: Spring is another great time to get married in Cave Creek. From March to May, the temperatures are mild, with average highs in the mid-70s to low 80s. The desert landscape comes alive with colorful wildflowers and cacti in bloom, making it the perfect time for outdoor ceremonies. Keep in mind that spring is also a popular time for tourism in Arizona, so you’ll need to book your accommodations and vendors well in advance to ensure availability.

Tourists

Cave Creek is a popular tourist destination, especially during the winter months when visitors come to escape the cold and enjoy the warm Arizona sun. If you’re planning an elopement during the busy tourist season, it’s important to book your accommodations and vendors well in advance, as availability can be limited.

Overall, the best time to get married in Cave Creek is during the fall, winter, or spring months, when the temperatures are comfortable and the town is less crowded. Or consider a sunrise elopement in the summer! With its stunning natural beauty, unique Old West charm, and wide range of accommodations and activities, Cave Creek is the perfect destination for your elopement or romantic getaway.

What to Pack for Your Cave Creek Elopement

If you need tips on what to bring to your Cave Creek elopement, here’s a guideline to follow!

General packing list:

• Permit (if needed)
• Water bottles/hydration pack
• Hiking boots
• Sunblock/glasses
• Change of shoes/socks
• Blanket (to sit on or change behind)
• Portable phone charger
• Rings
• Vow books

Winter add-ons:

• Layers (jacket, sweater)
• Gloves
• Beanie
• Hand warmers
• Thermos with a warm beverage

During your elopement adventure in Sedona it’s important to follow the 7 Leave No Trace principles.

1.  Plan Ahead and Prepare
2.  Stick to Trails
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
4. Check Campfire Restrictions
5. Leave What You Find
6.  Respect Wildlife
7. Share the Outdoors

Cave Creek Elopement in Arizona

Cave Creek, Arizona Photographer