The Ultimate Guide to Elope in Dead Horse Point State Park
- Stefan & Leticia Olson
- Sep 16, 2023
- 5 min read
Updated: May 4
Dead Horse Point State Park Adventure Elopement
Thinking about eloping at Dead Horse Point? You’re in for something seriously special.
This place feels like it was made for intimate, jaw-dropping wedding days. Perched on the edge of a dramatic mesa just outside Moab, Dead Horse Point State Park brings all the red rock magic sweeping canyon views, high desert light, and the kind of peace and quiet you won’t find at more crowded parks.
We’ve put together this guide to help you plan an elopement at Dead Horse Point, from how to get permits to what time of day brings the dreamiest light. If you’re the kind of couple who wants your wedding day to feel adventurous and peaceful.
Dead Horse Point is still a bit of a hidden gem when it comes to Moab elopements. But once you’ve stood at the edge of that overlook, watching the sun rise over the Colorado River and Canyonlands in the distance, you’ll get why we’re obsessed.
Only about 40 minutes from downtown Moab, this spot is easy to access but feels like a world away. And during golden hour? The landscape glows in a way that’s straight-up surreal.
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. https://stateparks.utah.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/13/2024/11/DHP-Wedding-Packet.pdf
Permits & Costs for Eloping at Dead Horse Point
Planning to say your vows at Dead Horse Point?
You’ll need a Special Use Permit and honestly, it’s a pretty straightforward process.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the costs:
Permit Fee: $60 total – $10 application fee – $50 permit fee (covers events with up to 40 people perfect for most elopements)
Depending on where you want to hold your ceremony and how many people you’re inviting, you might also need to reserve a specific site in the park:
Shade Shelter Site Rental (up to 50 people): $100/hour
Larger Group Site (51–100 people): $150/hour
Ceremony rehearsal (optional): $100
Picnic Shelter (optional): $50
And don’t forget the entrance fees for guests:
$20 per vehicle (covers up to 8 people)
$5 per person if you’re arriving by bus
These entrance fees can be paid ahead of time or at the park entrance on the day of your elopement, whatever works best for you and your guests.
Accessibility Tip: If you're looking for the easiest spot to access (especially for guests who aren’t up for hiking), the Shade Shelter Site is your best bet. It’s beautiful, private, and easy to get to.
Timing:
You can elope at Dead Horse Point any time of year, and the park allows ceremonies between 6 AM and 10 PM. Sunrise and sunset are especially magical here — that golden canyon glow is next-level.
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!
Comments