The Ultimate Guide to Elope in Dead Horse Point State Park
- Stefan & Leticia Olson
- Sep 16, 2023
- 4 min read
Updated: May 16, 2024
Dead Horse Point State Park Adventure Elopement
Eloping in Dead Horse Point State Park can be a dream come true for couples seeking a breathtaking and unique wedding experience. Perched on the edge of a dramatic mesa in Utah, this hidden gem offers awe-inspiring vistas, red rock formations, and a backdrop that's perfect for an unforgettable wedding. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about how to plan your Dead Horse Point wedding, including crucial information about permits. Let's dive into how to make your Dead Horse Point wedding truly magical.
Dead Horse Point State Park is a hidden gem that often flies under the radar when it comes to elopement locations in Moab, Utah. But once you set foot here, you'll understand its magic. At 2,000 feet above the mighty Colorado River, this location provides sweeping views of the river itself as well as the stunning Canyonlands National Park.
Just a short beautiful 40-minute drive from the town of Moab, Dead Horse Point's spectacular canyons are truly a sight to behold, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Bathed in soft, golden light, the landscape takes on an otherworldly quality that will leave you breathless.
TABLE OF CONTENT
Dead Horse Point Wedding Sites
When choosing the perfect location for your Dead Horse Point wedding, it's essential to consider the unique characteristics of each site. Here's a brief overview of the available wedding sites within the park:
1. La Sal:
Location: Park's northwest side
Highlights: Gorgeous views
Note: This site features sloping and uneven surfaces. Can accommodate 25 people
2. Cliff Side:
Location: Park's southwest side
Highlights: Secluded, away from crowds
Note: The site is more exposed and also has uneven terrain. Can accommodate 20 people
3. West Bench:
Location: Centrally located on the park's south end
Highlights: Easily accessible, visitor favorite
Note: Due to its popularity, it may be more crowded than other sites. Can accommodate 50 people
4. Point Bench:
Location: Southeast end of the park
Highlights: Stone bench with expansive views
Note: Point Bench can accommodate a maximum of five people.
5. Shade Shelter:
Location: East end of Dead Horse Point
Highlights: Largest site, ADA accessible, access to shade, allows chairs
Note: This site is a favorite among visitors due to its size and amenities. Can accommodate 100 people.
Each site offers its own unique charm and advantages, so consider your preferences and the size of your wedding party when choosing the perfect spot for your special day at Dead Horse Point.
DEAD HORSE POINT WEDDING PERMIT AND FEE
Here are some essential details to keep in mind:
Dead Horse Point and other Utah State Parks welcome wedding and elopement ceremonies, as well as photography sessions. It's a truly special site for your celebration.
Special Use Permit:
To host your wedding or elopement at Dead Horse Point, you'll need to secure a special use permit. It's advisable to apply for the permit at least 30 days before your desired date to ensure availability. More information on the application process here.
Permit Costs:
The permit costs vary depending on the number of people in attendance.
The base cost is $60, which includes a $10 application fee.
An additional $50 permit fee covers events with up to 40 people, making it suitable for most elopements.
Entrance Fee on the Ceremony Day:
On the day of your ceremony, there is a $20 entrance charge per vehicle, which covers up to 8 people per vehicle.
Alternatively, if you opt for a bus to transport your attendees, there's a fee of $5 per person.
Important Considerations for Your Dead Horse Point Wedding
Before you embark on planning your wedding at Dead Horse Point, it's crucial to take the following factors into account:
1. Accessibility:
- Most sites within the park do not offer wheelchair accessibility, except for the shade shelter at Dead Horse Point.
2. Public Access:
- Remember that all wedding sites are open to the public, and you won't have exclusive use of the area. Be prepared to share this beautiful location with other park visitors.
3. Flower Restrictions:
- Live or cut flowers are not allowed to be brought into the Park. Plan to use artificial flowers instead.
4. Pets:
- Only domesticated dogs are permitted at the wedding locations, and all park regulations for dogs apply. Ensure your furry friends are well-behaved and follow park rules.
5. Drone Usage:
- Drone use is prohibited between March and October. From November through February, drones may be used, but this requires a separate permit from the wedding ceremony permit. More information on drone regulations can be found at the provided link.
6. Trail Usage:
- To access the wedding location, you must use existing trails within the park.
7. Parking Arrangements:
- Cars should be parked in the designated parking areas agreed upon in advance.
8. Fee Payment:
- Ensure that all necessary fees are paid in advance of your wedding or immediately following the event to avoid any complications.
9. Environmental Considerations:
- Throwing seeds, confetti, rice, and releasing wildlife are prohibited to protect the park's delicate ecosystem.
By keeping these considerations in mind, you can plan a wedding at Dead Horse Point that respects both the natural environment and the park's regulations while creating beautiful memories on your special day. #DeadHorsePointWedding #ElopingInNature #ResponsibleElopement
READY TO ELOPE IN DEAD HORSE POINT??
Reach out to us! We would love to guide you through all the procedures, share more about our beautiful state and document your special day. We are more than just your photographers. We will help you craft a day that reflects you and your partner. We want to create an experience that you will remember for the rest of your life. Let's get Adventurous!
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