Canyonlands National Park Elopement Wedding - Moab, Utah - Emily + Carter
How to Elope in Canyonlands National Park
Hiking in Canyonlands with Emily and Carter at sunrise for this elopement shoot was the most INSANE + beautiful introduction to Moab, Utah I could have ever asked for! Red rock canyons stretch as far as the eye can see - it’s such a raw, untamed landscape perfect for an adventurous couple to explore together. If you’re thinking of getting married in Canyonlands National Park - or any National Park - check out this blog post for tips on planning your gorgeous day! I’ve outlined a few of the most common questions about Canyonlands, like the best hikes, where to stay, and when to plan your visit.
This blog post will help you prepare for a small wedding or elopement in Canyonlands National Park. Here’s what we’ll cover:
History of Canyonlands National Park
Best Time to Visit Canyonlands
Where to Stay Near Canyonlands
Best Hikes + Off-Road Trails Near Canyonlands National Park
Dog-Friendly Activities Near Canyonlands
Where to Eat around Canyonlands National Park
Utah Marriage Requirements + Resources
1. What is Canyonlands National Park?
Canyonlands is a National Park in Southeastern Utah made up of over 337,000 acres of land. Bates Wilson, the Arches National Monument Superintendent, advocated for all the land within sight from Grand View Point be made into a new national park. That became reality in 1964! It’s so crazy to think that activists, preservationists, and presidents stood in this same exact spot decades ago + saw as much beauty in it as we see today and made the effort to protect it for future generations. Canyonlands was named for its main feature: canyons!
Of course the history of this park begins long, long before that - Indigenous Americans seasonally visited this area thousands of years ago! Evidence of their travels can be seen through rock paintings and carvings still today. Eventually the land became a hub for Pueboloan farmers. Over time this land was used for more functional purposes - cowboys, ranchers, miners and geologists all played a big role in the development of this area. For those who enjoy the off-roading Moab has to offer: you can thank cowboys for creating Shafer and Murphy Trails at Island in the Sky, and prospectors during the nuclear arms race for White Rim Road!
I’M MORGAN! Wedding + elopement photographer, dog mom, and soon to be your new friend!
I’m stoked you’re here. Wanna say hi? Head over to my contact form if you’re looking for a photographer or shoot me an email at hello@keptrecord.com. Wanna grab a 100% free elopement-planning starter kit? Click here!
2. When to elope at Canyonlands National Park in Moab, Utah
Two major factors come into play when decided when to elope in Canyonlands: tourism + weather.
In 2016 the park welcomed 776,218 visitors! While that is a LOT of people, it’s still only about half of the crowd seen at nearby Arches National Park. Still, take note of tourism trends so you’re prepared! Spring and Fall are the most popular times to visit. In late March and early April crowds surge for Easter Jeep Safari, an annual event where 4-wheelers gather to explore every inch of red rock possible! All year long the busiest times of day for the park are between 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Unsurprisingly, the weather is best during those peak tourism times of Spring + Fall, where days are typically between 60-80 degrees Farenheit and nights between 30-50. Expect long wait times to enter the park mid-day, or hit the park either early in the morning or after 2 p.m.
Summer brings high heat (often 100 degrees or more!) and occasional flash floods in the area, making it less ideal. If your dream timeline means a summer ceremony, consider doing it at sunrise! You’ll get unparalleled views of the park and a much more manageable temperature. In winter it isn’t uncommon to see snow in Moab! The rugged features of Canyonlands look absolutely picturesque covered with thick blankets of snow - but don’t let it catch you off guard! Bring lots of layers. In both Summer and Winter, couples planning a wedding can take advantage of the smaller crowds by visiting more popular locations like Island in The Sky and Mesa Arch.
3. where to stay near canyonlands national park
The Best Hotels in Moab:
Canyonlands is roughly 40 minutes from the nearest city, Moab. While there are Airbnbs in the surrounding area, they’re often inconveniently located relative to grocery stores, restaurants, etc. Check out Hyatt Place Moab for a modern hotel with plenty of amenities. It’s dog-friendly and only a few minutes’ drive from the main strip, where you’ll find dining options, bars, grocery stores and gas stations. There’s also a Holiday Inn nearby.
The Best Campsites Near Canyonlands:
There are several campsites in the park, but the Needles Outpost seems to be most popular - and for good reason! This pet-friendly campsite includes showers, flush toilets, and gas hookups. Heads up: before you head to this spot make sure you have plenty of gas! To access it you’ll drive down a very long road. Another well-loved spot is the Willow Flat Campground, where you’ll be perched atop redrock with a stunning view. Willow Flat doesn’t have flush toilets or running water but reviews say it still feels exceptionally clean and well maintained. Both campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
4. The Best Hikes In + Around Canyonlands National Park:
Mesa Arch Trail (one of the stunning spots where I got the chance to photograph Emily + Carter that chilly April morning!) is a pretty easy 1 mile in-and-out trail. According to AllTrails, this trail is accessible year-round and has options for various skill levels. Certain times of year you may even get to see Utah’s wildflowers! This is one of the most popular trails in the park so for the best experience you may want to check it out at sunrise!
For a slightly more challenging hike, see the 1.7-mile out-and-back Aztec Butte Trail. This spot is one steeped in history: you’ll find ancient Puebloan granaries used for storage and views of Taylor Canyon.
Off-road enthusiasts will love Shafer Trail, a 19.6 scenic driving trail accessible throughout the year. There are tons of other trails to check out for 4-wheelers; see what one of my favorite Youtube Channels, Trail Recon, has to suggest here.
The nearby Sand Flats Recreation Area also has tons of biking, hiking, and off-road trails! Two of Moab’s most popular four-wheel drives are located here: Fins and Things and Hell’s Revenge. Find more on Fins here and on Hell’s Revenge here.
5. Dog-friendly activities near Canyonlands National Park
I TOTALLY get it - you want your dog to be your Maid of Honor or Best Man. Who doesn’t?! Unfortunately National Parks are pretty strict about the no-pets-on-trails policy… even if they’re wearing a flower collar or bow tie! But don’t fret - there are still ways to bring your pup along for the adventure.
First, make sure you’ve secured pet-friendly lodging! I was pleasantly surprised to make some new furry friends at Hyatt Place Moab.
Second, plan to visit pet-friendly spots! All of the State Parks in Utah are dog-friendly (read details here) Dead Horse Point State Park opened to the public in 1959 and has been leaving visitors in awe ever since.
6. Where to Eat At Canyonlands National Park
Moab is a SUPER small town so dining options are far more limited than you may be used to. At Canyonlands itself I’m not sure I saw a man-made structure other than non-flush toilets and the entrance station! So you’ll need to prepare food ahead of time to bring into the park - high energy, electrolyte-fueling foods recommended - or plan to eat in Moab before/after your trip to the park. Canyon Steak + Waffle House is great for picking up something quick. For more of a sit-down meal meant to satisfy after a day of being outdoors, check out Moab Brewery for beers + burgers.
7. How to Get Married In Utah
Utah doesn’t have a waiting period before you get married, which is great! That means after you get your license you can get married the same day (or up to 32 days after). You can get a marriage license through any county clerk - but it’s best to check with the county where the ceremony will be performed to make sure there aren’t any specific requirements.
Next you’ll have the marriage solemnized. For a complete list of who can solemnize a marriage, see this page with more information.
P.S. Did you know I’m ordained?!
Canyonlands-specific information on wedding ceremonies: Each National and State Park varies in the permit requirements - and they’re subject to change, so it’s best to check with the National Park directly for the most accurate and up-to-date info. Getting married in a National Park does require some amount of planning, as there are often designated locations and times for special events. Hefty fines may be imposed for those without approval hosting an event!
For Canyonlands Wedding Permits + Information, click here.
