Eloping in Zion begins with a dream…
Imagine this: you wake up early in the morning and hike by moonlight out to a popular overlook that you get all to yourself in the quiet hours of the morning. You change into your wedding clothes and see each other for the first time as the first light of the day hits the peaks in the distance. You linger there and watch the sun bathe the canyon in light. Then you head off together to a nearby slot canyon, still cool and still in the morning air. Maybe you head into town and get breakfast together a little coffeeshop with a rooftop view. After a quite midday together, you find a secluded mesa with the peaks of Zion in the background and say your vows before walking out to a beautiful spot along the river with the peaks and mesas surrounding you. You dance in the river as the last light creeps up the canyon walls and share a glass of whiskey as the day turns into night.
In this guide, I will walk you through the ins and outs of planning a small and intimate elopement in Zion National Park. Please keep in mind that I keep a few “local secrets” to myself until we book so that all the really good stuff is public, the more we keep some things a secret, the more intimate your experience can be :)
Adventure & Intimacy
These passes can be obtained in-person at Zion entrance stations.
You can also purchase an annual America the Beautiful pass, which grants admission into all federal recreation sites (including national parks) for one whole year, for $80!
A Special Use Permit, with a $100 application fee, is required for all weddings regardless of the size of the group.
How much do the permits cost to have a wedding in Zion?
Zion National Park Entry Pass
Annual Pass
$70; valid for 1 year for admission into Zion
weekly pass
$35; valid for 7 days for 1 vehicle
Before we get into wedding-specific permit info, you will need a recreational use pass to enter Zion since it’s a national park! There are a few options to consider, depending on how long you’ll be visiting Zion for + how often you’ll visit throughout the year:
How do you apply for a Zion National Park Special Use Permit?
1. Complete this application form
2. Submit your application & $100 payment at least 3 weeks prior to your requested date –email your application to zion_commercialservices@nps.gov & pay via this link
3. Wait to hear from the park about the status of your application & the necessary steps to secure your final permit
Follow these steps to get your Zion National Park wedding permit:
To have your wedding or elopement in Zion National Park, you will need to get a Special Use Permit, regardless of the size of your group. Six locations within the park are approved for weddings. Zion National Park won’t approve wedding permits for groups larger than 100 people, but some of the designated wedding locations have even smaller group restrictions.
Zion National Park is committed to environmental preservation. They enforce strict guidelines for weddings to minimize environmental impact. These guidelines, including restrictions on decor and the number of attendees, vary by location within the park.
What are the 6 approved locations in Zion to have a wedding?
Temple of Sinawava
Zion Lodge Lawn
Menu Falls
With a waterfall feature and towering cliffs this off-the-beaten-path location is a quiet little spot away from crowds. A big bonus with this location is that along with your permit you will get passes to drive into the canyon. So no shuttle needed.
This location, with its soaring sandstone cliffs, is the last shuttle stop in Zion Canyon. The approved ceremony site is secluded from tourists and provides a stunning natural backdrop.
Important Note: The Temple of Sinawava is accessible only via shuttle from mid-February to mid-November. The park rarely issues vehicle passes, so you and your guests will need to utilize the shuttle system.
Surrounded by towering cliffs and massive cottonwood trees, the Zion Lodge Lawn is a stunning location to get married. This location can be very busy in the summer and is only accessible via shuttle most of the year.
PRO TIP: To avoid having to get on the shuttle for this location, during March-November when the shuttle is running you can book a stay at the Zion Lodge. Staying at the Zion Lodge will give you access to drive a car into the park.
(maximum of 100 people)
(maximum of 35 people)
(maximum of 10 people)
Nature Center North Lawn
Timber Creek Overlook
South Campground Amphitheater
With a waterfall feature and towering cliffs this off-the-beaten-path location is a quiet little spot away from crowds. A big bonus with this location is that along with your permit you will get passes to drive into the canyon. So no shuttle needed.
This location, with its soaring sandstone cliffs, is the last shuttle stop in Zion Canyon. The approved ceremony site is secluded from tourists and provides a stunning natural backdrop.
Important Note: The Temple of Sinawava is accessible only via shuttle from mid-February to mid-November. The park rarely issues vehicle passes, so you and your guests will need to utilize the shuttle system.
Surrounded by towering cliffs and massive cottonwood trees, the Zion Lodge Lawn is a stunning location to get married. This location can be very busy in the summer and is only accessible via shuttle most of the year.
PRO TIP: To avoid having to get on the shuttle for this location, during March-November when the shuttle is running you can book a stay at the Zion Lodge. Staying at the Zion Lodge will give you access to drive a car into the park.
(maximum of 20 people, 4 cars)
(maximum of 50 people)
(maximum of 100 people)
A simple vow exchange within the park can create a special and meaningful moment while opening up additional location possibilities.
Exchange vows in an intimate ceremony amidst the majestic sandstone cliffs and vibrant desert landscape of Zion. Complete the official marriage formalities before or after your Zion visit, allowing you to fully immerse yourselves in the breathtaking beauty of this off-the-beaten-path location.
Hold your formal ceremony with friends and family at one of the many beautiful locations just outside the park, and then travel into the park for photos at the amazing spots you've been dreaming of.
What are the options if we do not want to worry about a permit? Can we exchange vows in other areas of the park?
You can also go in person and make a date of it, Utah county clerk’s office , St George Utah.
To apply for a marriage license, both applicants must
- Apply in person together.
- Provide full names, addresses, birth dates, and places.
- Share social security numbers (if applicable).
- Give parents’ names and birthplaces, including mother’s maiden name.
- Show valid photo ID (passport, birth certificate, driver’s license, or state ID).
How do we Legally Get Married in Utah?
The Pa'Rus Trail is a quick & easy location to get classic Zion scenery. It is a paved trail that runs along the Virgin River with epic views of the iconic Watchman Mountain in the background.
Short hike - Pa'Rus Trail
Canyon Overlook is easily the most popular location in Zion for elopement photos + a private vow exchange. A 1.25-mile round trip hike leads you to incredible views.
Medium hike - Canyon Overlook
A 6.5-mile round trip hike, this location features the biggest views in the park. It even overlooks Angels Landing. A great hike for adventurous couples and getting away from the crowds in Zion.
Big Adventure - Observation Point
This meadow along the Kolob Terrace section of Zion features stunning views of Zion in the background. It is easily accessible and perfect for a simple vow exchange.
Kolob Terrace
What are the best spots in Zion for a private vow exchange + epic photos?
For epic views and the classic Zion look, I have a few favorite spots that I recommend on a regular basis. I'm not going to give away all my secrets (Hire us for that!), but here are a few of my favorites.
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We do not want to worry about permits, what locations do you suggest?
Here are a few of my favorite outdoor locations to have a ceremony without needing a permit
Lambs Knoll
Gooseberry Mesa
Guacemole Trailhead
Located 35 minutes northwest of Zion/Springdale, this off-the-beaten-path location features stunning views, lots of jagged red rock, and a small slot canyon. The area is easily accessible.
Many of the hotels in Springdale allow weddings on their grounds. Cliffrose Lodge and Cable Mountain Lodge are a few. There are also beautiful rental properties set up for weddings.
One of my favorite locations, perfect for anyone that wants to camp before or after. Huge views of Zion, great off the beaten path trails. 30 minutes for Springdale but there are some new hotels and restaurants close by in the town of Virgin.
An iconic location well known for mountain biking and epic views. This location is best in Spring and Fall due to the accessibility being limited as its all dirt roads. The drive is so scenic and the offers a very private option.
Red Reef Trail
Smiths Mesa
This location in the Hurricane Valley features a seasonal waterfall & stream, a beautiful canyon, and lots of red rock. It is a little over 2 miles round trip with stream hopping and climbing rocks
Smiths Mesa is a quiet and secluded spot along the Kolob Terrace section of Zion tucked just outside the park making it a great place to get married without needing a permit.
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Choose between canvas glamping tents and tiny house bungalows for your luxury stay in Virgin! This is a great spot for a wedding ceremony!
Best place to stay for Just Us Newlyweds
Stay in a beautiful luxury Airstream park in Virgin. This is a great place for a intimate reception!
Tucked in a secluded canyon in Virgin with stunning views, this luxury glamping spot also allows small outdoor weddings and receptions!
Stay in a private tiny house overlook the Virgin River in Hurricane! It’s close to local favorite River Rock Roasting Co where you can get coffee, pizza, beer and more!
This is a unique new glamping property tucked into a private canyon between Kanab and Orderville! Spring-fed ponds, cave lakes, beautifully designed glamping tents, and cabins all tucked into a stunning secluded private canyon. I can't get over how cool this property looks.
Stay in a 1931 landmark historic home in Springdale surrounded on 3 sides by Zion National Park!
The ultimate in luxury, this property is quietly tucked into the desert landscape and ready for guest to come and connect with nature. Located just 20 mintures from Zion Canyon this property is what desert dreams are made of. Their handcrafted, safari-style tents traveled all the way from South Africa. Each tent has optimal views and premium luxury.
One of the largest resorts in the west, Zion Ponderosa is tucked into the east side of Zion. Full of adventure,activities, and fun for all sizes of groups. The large homes allow for families to stay together and some are even set up for wedding celebrations.
Accommodations for groups and families
This stunning off-grid glamping property in Kanab is the perfect desert retreat for friends and family to come together and celebrate in the desert. Rent out the entire property of beautiful glamping tents with a large main house perfect for hosting big groups.
At the heart of adventure and at the western edge of Zion National Park, Lazalu offers the experience of the Southwest as it should be: solitude, wilderness, hiking with no crowds.
Zion Villa offers a uniquely intimate experience away from the crowds and right in the heart of the natural beauty of Zion National Park, offering visitors an experience of connecting to their True North. The property is located on Kolob Terrace Road, minutes and even walking distance to many popular hiking trails, caves, and overlooks within and surrounded by the Park.
When is the best time to get married in Zion?
There isn't a perfect time to get married in Zion. It really just depends on what you are looking for on your special day.
If you don't want to deal with heat and crowds, don't elope in July. Elope in the late spring or summer if you want to be surrounded by a lush green desert landscape.
Here are some things to think about when choosing your date.
Zion's summer season is characterized by hot temperatures, lush greenery, and high visitor traffic. The monsoon season, spanning mid-July to August's end, brings consistent evening storms. For cooler temperatures, consider scheduling your ceremony at sunrise.
Summer
The fall season in Zion runs from October through November. During this time, temperatures are pleasant during the day, but can drop to the 40s and 50s in the mornings and evenings. The park is busy this time of year, but the fall foliage and stunning views of Zion Canyon make it worth a visit.
Fall
Winter is the least busy time of year to visit the park, with the exception of Thanksgiving and Christmas breaks. Daytime temperatures typically range from the 40s to 50s. The shuttle service into Zion Canyon is not operational during this time, allowing visitors to drive their own vehicles into the park. The canyon's appearance is stark due to the absence of green leaves. Some trails may be closed, and icy conditions are possible. Services in Springdale are limited during the winter months.
Winter
Spring in Zion National Park begins in late February and continues through April. Daytime temperatures are ideal, but the park is crowded. The Zion Canyon will begin to show lush greenery at this time.
Spring
Pro Tip
While East Zion's appearance remains fairly consistent throughout the year, Zion Canyon experiences dramatic seasonal changes. The vegetation in the slot canyons and slickrock areas on Zion's east side looks similar in both summer and winter, although the light and temperatures vary considerably between the two seasons.
Each month and season has it's own advantages, challenges and dates to avoid contact us so we can help you plan and suggest the best time for you!
Must-do epic adventures while visiting Zion
Canyon Ride in Zion is your horseback excursion through beautiful Zion National Park will be the highlight of your vacation experience. From the time you mount up until our first rest stop, scenes and natural wonders will open to you at every turn. You’ll see such natural wonders as the Three Patriarchs, the Beehives, and take a breathtaking jaunt through beautiful cactus gardens. For a nice relaxing horseback tour, the 1 hour ride will follow the Virgin River for about one mile to the Court of the Patriarchs and return you back to the loading corral. For a more adventurous horseback ride the three hour trip will take you around the Sandbench Trail, gradually ascending 500 feet giving you a spectacular view of the Southern end of Zion National Park.
Horse-back riding in Zion
You can hire a guide, Zion Cycles, or cruise on your own. My absolute favorite way to experience the Zion Canyon! Zoom through the canyon with the wind in your hair, and smells of the lush desert vegetation around you, while feeling the pockets of cool and warm air on your skin.Feel the rush of wind and the warmth of the sun as you immerse yourself in the vibrant desert landscape, with its unexpected pockets of warm and cool air. There's no more exhilarating way to experience the majesty of Zion Canyon than by zooming through it!
E-bike the Zion canyon with Zion Cycles
Explore miles and miles of sand dunes, zoom down sand hills, and take in expansive and stunning views. The sand dunes at Sand Hollow in Hurricane are absolutely stunning and so much fun to explore. Booking a guided tour with Southern Utah Adventure Center.
Take An ATV/UTV Sand Dune Tour
Let yourself be amazed on a stargazing tour in Zion under the Dark Skies of Utah. Gaze out at the Milky Way, follow the Planets on their journey, marvel at distant Galaxies and Star Clusters, see the stunning colors of Nebulae and make a wish upon the streak of the occasional meteor.
Star gaze and learn about our galaxy
This is such a beautiful way to celebrate and make your day extra special. Reach out to Kay's Events and Picnics and let them handle every detail while you create unforgettable memories. Embark on a journey of relaxation and enchantment. Their picnics are the perfect thing to do visiting Southern Utah, Zion National Park or anywhere in southern Utah who want to experience the beauty of the area!
For a spectacular adventure repelling one of the beautiful slot canyons in Southern Utah, book a canyoneering package with our favorite canyoneering company Zion Guide Hub
Go Canyoneering with Zion Guide Hub
Check out East Zion Adventures for tons of great options to get off the beaten path and explore Southern Utah in a fun new way. I highly recommend the White Mountain Horseback Ride or the Crimson Canyon Slot Canyon UTV Tour.
Take A guided adventure with East Zion Adventures
Go big or go home! A helicopter tour is about as epic as you can get. With awe inspiring views of Zion and the surrounding cliffs and valleys, book a helicopter tour with Zion Helicopters and fly close to the amazing rock formations and right over 2,000’ sheer cliffs.
Book a helicopter tour with Zion Helicopter
PLAN A ROMANTIC LUXURY PRIVATE PICNIC
Let’s get you familiar with 4 areas of Zion
Knowing the park will help you know what “side” of the park you are most interested in and how close or far away that is to the amenities, where you want to stay, celebrate with dinner and what trails you want to explore.
There are 4 sections of Zion that could be up to one hour I will give you ideas for drive time if you are staying in Springdale. Springdale is the little town located right next to Zion. This is the most convenient place to stay when visiting the main canyon and East Zion. If you stay in a different location the driving times will be a little different.
The Main Canyon
- Riverside Walk
- The Narrows
- Emerald Pools
- Sand Bench Loop
Kolob Canyons
- Taylor Creek
- Timber Creek Overlook
Kolob Terrace
- Northgate Peaks Trail
- Lambs Knoll
- Canyon Overlook
- Many Pools
- Clear Creek
East Zion
hikes closest to the enterance
- Pa'Rus Trail
- The Watchman Trail
- Lower Pine Creek Falls
What to Pack for A Zion National Park Elopement
When eloping in Zion National Park, remember that you'll be outdoors, so pack accordingly for your adventure and the unexpected. In addition to your elopement attire and ceremony items, here are some essentials to bring for your Zion National Park elopement!
Headlamp
Hiking poles
(depending on what hike(s) you’ll be taking)
Clothing layers
(rain jacket, sweater, etc.) – you’d be surprised at how chilly the desert can get at night!
Downloaded offline road + trail maps
Water
(multiple bottles – especially if you’re eloping in the hot summer)
Snacks
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Proper footwear
Hiking backpack
Zion National Park Elopement Vendors
Zion Officant
Zion elopement florists
St. George Party Rentals
Kay’s Picnics
Zion elopement rentals
Zion elopement hair & makeup
To help you create the elopement of your dreams, we've compiled a list of some of the best elopement vendors in Utah!
This guide is just the beginning of the value I offer to couples dreaming of an intimate Zion National Park elopement. It covers the best ceremony locations, permit requirements, and seasonal tips to ensure a seamless experience, plus insights on hidden spots for private vows and breathtaking photo opportunities. But there’s so much more—I provide my couples with deeper guidance, personalized recommendations, and exclusive local insights to craft a wedding that feels both adventurous and deeply personal. If you book with me, you’ll receive even more tailored details to create a stress-free, unforgettable experience in Zion’s most breathtaking landscapes.
