How to Plan an Arches National Park Wedding or Elopement (with Permit Tips & Best Ceremony Spots)
- Stefan & Leticia Olson
- Jul 21, 2023
- 7 min read
Updated: May 11
Utah Elopement Photographer | Arches National Park Elopement
Hey adventurers! If you’re dreaming of a wedding that combines stunning natural beauty with a sense of adventure, then Arches National Park in Utah might be the perfect place. Known for its breathtaking sandstone arches and dramatic landscapes, this national park is the perfect backdrop for an intimate and unforgettable wedding. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to plan your perfect elopement or wedding at Arches National Park.
Why Choose Arches National Park for Your Wedding?
Arches National Park is renowned for its natural stone arches, boasting the world's densest concentration with over 2,000 documented formations. This unique terrain offers stunning views, a warm climate, and a range of outdoor activities, making it a perfect location for nature-loving couples. Among these formations is the famous Delicate Arch, one of the most recognized natural stone arches in the world. Imagine exchanging vows surrounded by these iconic landscapes. It's not just a wedding—it's an adventure!
Special Use Permits & Legal Requirements for Arches National Park Weddings
✅ Do You Need a Permit?
Yes, any wedding or elopement ceremony within Arches National Park requires a Special Use Permit, regardless of the group size—even if it's just the two of you. This permit ensures that your ceremony aligns with park regulations and helps preserve its natural beauty.
Permit Fee
Cost: $185
Additional Fees: Depending on the specifics of your event, there may be additional charges, such as monitoring fees ranging from $80–$150 if a ranger is required to oversee your ceremony.
Application Timeline
Advance Application: Apply at least 30 days before your desired date.
Booking Window: You can apply for a permit up to one year in advance of your wedding date.
How to Apply
Download the Application: Obtain the Special Use Permit application form (NPS Form 10-930s) from the National Park Service website.
Complete the Form: Fill out all required information, including personal details, proposed date and time, location preferences, and group size.
Payment: Submit the $185 application fee through Pay.gov.
Submission: Email the completed application along with your payment confirmation to: seug_commercialservices@nps.gov.
How to Include Guests at Your Arches National Park Elopement
Eloping doesn't have to mean going it alone. If you're dreaming of an intimate ceremony with your closest friends and family, Arches National Park offers several stunning locations that can accommodate small groups while preserving the serene beauty of the landscape.
Approved Ceremony Locations & Group Sizes
Arches National Park has designated specific locations for wedding ceremonies, each with its own group size limit (including the couple, officiant, photographer, and any guests):
Park Avenue: Up to 15 people
La Sal Mountains Viewpoint: Up to 50 people
Double Arch: Up to 25 people
The Windows Section: Up to 25 people
Panorama Point: Up to 50 people
Devils Garden Campground Amphitheater: Up to 80 people
Note: Applications to hold a ceremony at other locations within the park will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Ceremony Timing
Delicate Arch: Ceremonies are only permitted before 9:00 AM or after 4:00 PM to minimize interference with peak visitor hours.
Prohibited Items & Activities
To protect the park's natural and cultural resources, the following are not allowed during ceremonies:
Decorations: No arches, chairs, tables, or other furniture unless specified in the permit.
Amplified Music: Not permitted.
Floral Arrangements: Only native, non-invasive species are allowed; no seeds, rice, confetti, or similar items.
Wildlife Releases: Releasing butterflies, doves, or other animals is prohibited.
Alcohol: Consumption of alcohol is not allowed within the park.
Pets: Pets are not permitted on trails or in the backcountry; they are only allowed in parking areas and campgrounds.
Accessibility & Comfort for Guests
While some ceremony locations are easily accessible, others may require short hikes over uneven terrain. If you have guests with mobility concerns, consider venues like La Sal Mountains Viewpoint or Panorama Point, which offer breathtaking views with minimal walking. Additionally, Devils Garden Campground Amphitheater provides seating, making it a comfortable choice for larger groups or elderly attendees.
Park Entry & Timed Entry Reservations
Entrance Fee: $30 per private vehicle, or present a valid America the Beautiful Pass.
Timed Entry: From April 1 to July 6 and August 28 to October 31, 2025, timed entry reservations are required between 7:00 AM and 4:00 PM. However, if you have a Special Use Permit, this requirement is waived for your vehicle and guests.
Best Locations for Your Ceremony at Arches National Park
Arches National Park offers several stunning locations for your wedding ceremony. Here are a few favorites:
1. Delicate Arch: Iconic and awe-inspiring, but requires a 3-mile round-trip hike. Best for couples who don’t mind a bit of a trek.
2. The Windows Section: Easier to access, with several large arches in close proximity. Great for small groups and families.
3. La Sal Mountains Viewpoint: Offers panoramic views of the mountains and surrounding desert, perfect for sunset ceremonies.
4. Sand Dune Arch: A more secluded spot, ideal for intimate "just us" ceremonies.
Best Time of Year to Get Married in Arches National Park
The desert climate means that timing is crucial for comfort and safety:
- Spring (March to May): Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers make this a popular time for weddings.
- Fall (September to November): Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds make fall another ideal season.
Accommodations and Amenities in Moab Utah for an Arches Elopement
Arches National Park itself has limited facilities. There are no restaurants or hotels within the park, so most couples stay in nearby Moab, which offers a range of accommodations from budget motels to luxurious lodges.
Just a short drive from the park, Moab has everything you need—cozy inns, charming bed and breakfasts, and full-service hotels. There are also plenty of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining.
For a true adventure experience, consider camping at one of the park’s campgrounds. Just remember to book early, especially during peak seasons.
Getting To Arches National Park
Arches National Park is easily accessible by car. Here’s how to get there:
- The park entrance is about 5 miles north of Moab on US-191. From Salt Lake City, it’s about a 4-hour drive.
- The closest major airport is Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT) in Colorado, about 2 hours away. Alternatively, fly into Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) and drive down.
Final Tips
Hire a Local Photographer: As a husband and wife team specializing in nature-inspired adventure weddings, we know the best spots and the perfect times for golden light. Plus, we're both ordained and can legally officiate your ceremony—no matter which state you're coming from.
Plan for the Weather: Always check the weather forecast and plan accordingly. Layered clothing is key in the desert, where temperatures can vary widely throughout the day.
Respect the Environment: Leave no trace and follow all park guidelines to ensure that Arches remain beautiful for generations to come.
Sunrise vs. Sunset at Arches: When to Elope + Sample Timeline
One of the most common questions we get is: Should we elope at sunrise or sunset? The good news: both are incredible in Arches, but the experience is totally different depending on what vibe you’re going for.
Sunrise Elopement
If you're up for an early start, sunrise is pure magic in the desert. The park is quiet, the light is soft, and the cooler temps make hiking way more comfortable. Plus, you'll avoid the crowds that roll in by mid-morning.
Sunset Elopement
Sunset gives you golden hour glow, warmer colors in the rocks, and a slower start to your day. It’s a popular time, so expect to share space with other visitors—especially in iconic spots like Delicate Arch or The Windows.
Sample Sunrise Elopement Timeline
Here’s what a simple “just us” morning elopement could look like:
5:00 AM – Meet at trailhead (headlamps on, stars still out!)
6:15 AM – Arrive at Delicate Arch
6:30 AM – Sunrise ceremony + portraits
7:30 AM – Picnic breakfast + coffee - quiet time to soak it all in
8:30 AM – Explore Sand Dunes Arch and nearby Arches
10:00 AM – Wrap up + celebrate with brunch in Moab
No matter which route you take, we’ll help you craft a timeline that fits your vision, pace, and lighting preferences—whether that’s sunrise stillness or golden hour glow.
Ready to Plan Your Arches National Park Wedding?
If you’re excited about tying the knot in one of the most stunning places on Earth, we’d love to help you make it happen. Fill out our contact form to get more information and start planning your dream wedding at Arches National Park. Let’s create an unforgettable adventure together!
For more detailed information on weddings at Arches National Park, visit the official NPS website.
Looking for a more private and intimate option? Explore beyond Arches National Park and avoid the crowds.
Arch Elopement in Moab outside Arches National Park
We always encourage our clients to explore alternative options beyond the popular Arches National Park. One hidden gem worth considering is Corona Arch, a magnificent natural wonder nestled in BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land. This hidden gem offers a less crowded and more intimate experience, perfect for capturing your special moments away from the beaten path. The grandeur of Corona Arch, with its stunning sandstone curves and unique formations, provides a captivating backdrop for your elopement day. The raw beauty of the surrounding BLM land allows for a more authentic and personalized experience, where you can freely embrace your love amidst the untouched wilderness.
Arches National Park Elopement Photographers
Reach out to us! we’d love to help you bring your vision to life. We're not just photographers—we're here to guide you every step of the way, share our love for this incredible state, and help you create a day that truly reflects you both.
Whether you already have a plan or are still figuring things out, we’ll help shape your dream elopement into something unforgettable. Let’s get adventurous and start planning something amazing together!
Leti & Stefan Oslon
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