Zion National Park Elopement Guide
Looking to plan an elopement in Zion? As an adventure elopement photographer, there’s nothing quite like capturing the raw beauty of Zion National Park on camera. With its towering red rock formations, winding canyons, and stunning vistas, this park is the perfect location for couples who want to celebrate their love in a breathtaking natural setting. Whether you’re planning a secluded ceremony or an adventurous elopement with a few loved ones, Zion National Park has everything you need to create an unforgettable wedding day. In this post, I’ll share my insider knowledge on eloping in Zion National Park, so you can have the adventure of a lifetime for your big day.
How to Elope in Zion National Park
With its breathtaking scenery and unique landscapes, Zion National Park is the perfect place to say “I do” in an intimate ceremony surrounded by Utah’s crazy epic nature! If you’re looking for an adventurous and unique way to get married, eloping in Zion might be the perfect option for you.
Here are the logistics when to comes to planning your Zion elopement:
Permits
If you’re planning to hold your wedding ceremony in any National Park, you’ll need to obtain a permit. Here’s how you can get a permit specifically for a wedding in Zion National Park:
1. Determine the type of permit you need
Zion National Park offers several types of permits for weddings and other special events. The type of permit you need will depend on the size of your wedding and the location within the park where you plan to hold your ceremony. You can visit the park’s website or contact the park’s special use permit coordinator to determine the type of permit you need.
2. Apply for the permit
Once you’ve determined the type of permit you need, you can apply for the permit online through the park’s website. You’ll need to provide information about your wedding, including the date, time, location, and number of attendees. You’ll also need to pay a fee for the permit ($100)
3. Wait for approval
After you’ve applied for the permit, you’ll need to wait for approval from the park’s special use permit coordinator. The approval process can take several weeks, so it’s important to apply for the permit well in advance of your wedding date.
4. Obtain the permit
Once your permit has been approved, you’ll need to obtain the permit from the park’s visitor center. You’ll need to show proof of your permit to park rangers on the day of your wedding.
5. Follow park regulations
To ensure that your wedding goes smoothly and without any hiccups, it’s important to follow park regulations. This includes staying on designated trails, respecting wildlife and vegetation, and adhering to any other rules specific to the location where you’ll be holding your ceremony. You can find more info on getting a Special Use Wedding Permit for Zion on the NPS Zion site!
Obtaining a permit for a wedding in Zion National Park can be a bit of a process, BUT it’s necessary to ensure that your wedding day is special and stress-free. Follow these steps to obtain your permit and start planning your dream wedding in one of the most beautiful places on earth. As your Zion elopement photographer, I can help guide you through the process during our consultation and planning calls!
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 Utah here’s some info and resources to get you started:
Marriage Licenses | Grand County, UT – Official Website (grandcountyutah.net)
- A marriage license issued in Grand County is valid throughout the State of Utah.
- The person solemnizing the marriage must sign, date, and return the license to the Grand County Clerk/Auditor’s Office within 30 days of your marriage.
- The non-refundable $40 fee includes one certified copy of your license. Additional copies may be obtained upon request.
- Applicants must be at least 18 years of age. Minors age 15-17 may obtain a license for marriage with additional consent requirements.
When to Elope in Zion
Weather in Zion
Zion National Park, and Utah in general, is a beautiful and popular place for elopements, but it’s important to consider the weather when planning your special day!! Here’s what you need to know about the weather for a Zion elopement:
Spring (March to May)
Spring can be a beautiful time to get married in Zion National Park, with mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers adding to the scenic beauty. However, spring can also bring unpredictable weather, including occasional rain and thunderstorms, and some flood warnings. It’s important to have a backup plan in case of unexpectedly wet weather!
Summer (June to August)
Summer is the most popular time to visit Zion, with warm temperatures and clear skies. However, summer can also be very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 90 degrees F, and hardly cooling off at night. It’s important to stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade to avoid heat exhaustion. A sunrise elopement might be the best time to elope in the Summer here.
Fall (September to November)
Fall can be a stunning time to get married in Zion as well, with cooler temperatures and changing leaves adding to the beauty of the landscape. However, fall can also bring occasional rain and colder temperatures!
Winter (December to February)
Winter can be a peaceful and serene time to get married in Zion, with snow-covered landscapes and fewer crowds. However, winter can also bring heavy snowstorms, so it’s important to check for any road or trail closures and be prepared for winter driving conditions!
Overall, the weather in Zion National Park can be unpredictable, so it’s important to plan accordingly and have a backup plan in case of inclement weather. With proper planning and preparation, you can have a beautiful and memorable wedding in one of the most stunning locations on earth! I’m happy to offer more input on when the best time to elope in Zion is on our client consultation calls!
Where to Stay in and around Zion National Park
If you’re coming in from out of town, or just want to make your elopement experience more unique, here are some unique places to stay in and around Zion!
1. Inside the park
Zion National Park has several lodging options inside the park, including the Zion Lodge, which offers hotel-style rooms, cabins, and suites. The lodge is located in the heart of the park and provides easy access to hiking trails and other attractions.
2. Outside the park
There are also several lodging options outside the park, including hotels, motels, vacation rentals, and campgrounds. Some popular towns near Zion include Springdale, Hurricane, and St. George.
3. Camping
If you’re looking for a more rustic experience, there are several campgrounds both inside and outside the park. The Watchman Campground, located next to the Zion Canyon Visitor Center, near the South Entrance in Springdale, is the most popular option and offers tent and RV sites. However, that can fill up fast, so be sure and book in advance, and consider eloping on a weekday!
4. Glamping
For a more luxurious camping experience, you can also try glamping. There are several glamping options near the park, including Under Canvas Zion, which offers safari-style tents with comfortable beds and private bathrooms.
No matter what type of lodging you choose, it’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season, which runs from March to October. If possible, try and book at least 2 days or more, so you have time to relax and explore without worrying about check-in out and packing up!
With so many options for where to stay near Zion National Park, you’re sure to find the perfect place to rest and recharge after a long day of hiking and exploring.
What to Bring to your Zion Elopement
General packing list:
- Permit (printed out)
- 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
- Ear muffs
- Hand warmers
- Thermos with a warm beverage
More Utah elopement guides and tips
Fun things to do in Zion
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 Utah has to offer! Here are some adventure elopement experience ideas for Zion!
- Hiking: Zion has a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy to difficult. Some popular hikes include Angels Landing, The Narrows, and Observation Point.
- Rock climbing: Zion has some of the best climbing in the world, with routes for all skill levels.
- Canyoneering: You can find the most beautiful slot canyons in the world here, and canyoneering is a great way to experience them.
- Helicopter tour. Get a birds-eye view at the incredible vistas an canyons of Zion!
- Biking: There are several biking trails in the park, including the Pa’rus Trail, which is a great option for families.
- Horseback riding: Several companies offer guided horseback rides in and around the park.
- Scenic drives: The Zion-Mount Carmel Highway and the Kolob Terrace Road offer breathtaking views of the park.
- Jeep tours. Book an off-roading vehicle or tour with a guide to get a unique look at the back country of Utah and around Zion.
Leave No Trace
During your elopement adventure in Zion it’s important to follow the 7 Leave No Trace principles.
- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Stick to Trails
- Dispose of Waste Properly
- Check Campfire Restrictions
- Leave What You Find
- Respect Wildlife
- Share the Outdoors
Find a photographer that’s an expert in eloping in Zion!
To make your elopement experience a breeze, start by booking an experienced Zion elopement photographer! Hiring a local who knows all the ins and out of eloping in Arizona can be SO helpful. I have done countless hours of research and location scouting for my clients, and can offer help in the planning process before your elopement day!
Zion National Park Elopement Photographer
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