So, you’re dreaming of a Utah elopement—but you’re not sure where, exactly? Utah is packed with wild beauty, but what makes it truly special is that there’s a vibe for every kind of love story. Whether you’re desert lovers, forest wanderers, or mountain chasers, there’s a venue style here that’s just waiting for your “I do.”
As a Utah elopement photographer, I help couples plan and document days that feel like them. Here’s your venue-style guide to finding the perfect Utah backdrop.
1. Desert Elopements
For the earthy, adventurous, and wildly in love
Where to go:
- Moab (Arches & Canyonlands)
- Dead Horse Point State Park
- Capitol Reef
- Goblin Valley
The vibe:
Towering red rocks, natural arches, deep canyons. Golden sunsets that light up the sandstone like fire. This is for couples who crave adventure and want that iconic Western backdrop.
Best season: March–May & September–November
Permit needed? Yes, for most national parks and state parks.
2. Mountain Elopements
For the couples who feel most alive in alpine air
Where to go:
- Wasatch Mountains
- Big & Little Cottonwood Canyon
- Mount Timpanogos
- Snowbasin or Sundance Resort (for luxury + views)
The vibe:
Lush pines, wildflowers in summer, snowy peaks in winter. Mountain elopements feel secluded, peaceful, and grounded. Perfect for sunrise ceremonies or cozy, winter vow exchanges.
Best season: Late June–October (for alpine wildflowers or fall leaves); December–February (for snowy elopements)
Permit needed? Sometimes—especially in National Forest land.
3. Salt Flat Elopements
For the minimalists + dreamers
Where to go:
- Bonneville Salt Flats
The vibe:
Ethereal, surreal, modern. Clean white earth meets vast open sky. This setting is for the couple who wants something different—editorial, raw, and stunning in its simplicity.
Best season: May–October (avoid spring when the salt flats can flood)
Permit needed? Not always, but check with BLM for commercial use.
4. Slot Canyon Elopements
For the bold, intimate, and off-the-beaten-path kind of love
Where to go:
- Peek-a-Boo & Spooky Canyon (Escalante)
- Little Wild Horse Canyon
- Zebra Slot Canyon
The vibe:
Close quarters, soft lighting, and completely unique. Slot canyon elopements are dramatic, intimate, and unlike anything else. These are for couples who want an elopement that’s as daring as it is emotional.
Best season: Fall and spring; avoid during monsoon season (flash floods!)
Permit needed? Yes, and always check trail conditions.
5. Lodge + Cabin Elopements
For cozy vibes with epic views
Where to go:
- Zion Mountain Ranch
- Under Canvas Zion or Moab
- Log Haven (Salt Lake City)
- Airbnbs near Bryce or Kanab
The vibe:
Relaxed, romantic, private. Think candlelight dinners, starry skies, and waking up on your elopement morning with coffee and a view. This is ideal for couples who want some luxury and intimacy without hiking boots.
Best season: Year-round, depending on location!
Permit needed? Usually not, but venue permission is required.
How to Choose Your Utah Elopement Style
Ask yourself:
- Do we want to hike or keep it drive-up accessible?
- What kind of landscape makes us feel the most connected?
- Are we looking for epic views, total seclusion, or a blend?
No matter your vibe, there’s a spot here in Utah that will make your jaw drop—and I’d love to help you find it.
Let’s Plan Your Utah Elopement Together
I offer custom elopement photography packages that include:
- Location scouting + permitting support
- Timeline planning based on lighting and experience
- All travel included anywhere in Utah
- Sneak peeks in 24 hours and full gallery in 4 weeks
Whether you’re saying vows on a cliff edge, in a quiet forest, or at a modern desert Airbnb, your elopement deserves to be as intentional and beautiful as your love.
Let’s make it happen. Inquire now →
