Not sure where to start when it comes to finding Zion wedding venues? One of the biggest questions I receive as a local Zion wedding & elopement expert is “Do you have any recommendations for Zion National Park Wedding Venues”? The answer is yes, I absolutely have the best recommendations! 

When searching for Zion wedding venues, the biggest piece of advice I can give you is to narrow down your top priorities. Are you searching for Zion National Park wedding venues that can host family and friends? Do you want to have an inclusive yet immersive wedding day experience where your beautiful portraits, ceremony, and reception all take place in one location? Or do you prefer separate locations for your ceremony and reception? You might be imagining a wedding ceremony inside Zion National Park with a reception celebration to follow. Either way, I’ve got you covered! I’ll go over all of the options with you in the guide below.

Obtaining Your Marriage Certificate for Your Zion Elopement

In order for your Zion elopement ceremony to be a legally binding marriage, with an officiant present, there is a two-step process involved. The first is to obtain a special use permit for a wedding in Zion National Park. The second is to obtain your marriage license through the local county clerk’s office.

Obtaining a Special Use Permit for your Zion Elopement

There are only six different locations within Zion National Park where you can host a legally binding wedding ceremony with an officiant presiding over your vows. Additionally, the total number of people you are allowed to have in attendance for your elopement will vary by location.

Regardless of whether you choose to host sacred wedding vows or a legally binding ceremony, you will need to apply for a special use permit through the National Park Service.

This application costs $100 and must be submitted at least three weeks in advance of the date of your wedding. Once approved, your application will include two hours of access to the park for your wedding ceremony (or sacred vows) and wedding photography experience. 

• You can obtain an application online for a special use permit at Zion National Park, here.
• If you wish to submit the application electronically you can email it to: zion_commercialservices@nps.gov
• You can submit the $100 permit fee electronically at this link: https://pay.gov/public/form/start/77183452

Symbolic or Sacred Ceremony

Symbolic or sacred wedding vows are allowed within Zion. These are private ceremonies where you and your partner recite vows to one another without an officiant present. If this is what you have in mind for your Zion National Park elopement, you can skip over the section that discusses applying for a marriage license.

Obtaining a Marriage License for your Zion Elopement

If you wish for your Zion National Park elopement to be a legally binding marriage ceremony, the next step you’ll need to take is to apply for a marriage license. This can be done at any county clerk’s office. Once you are granted your marriage license, you are free to get married. There is no waiting period once you have obtained your marriage license. Furthermore, your marriage license will be valid for 32 days from the date of issuance. 

To get married in Utah, you need to apply for a marriage license and have the marriage solemnized. You can apply for a marriage license at any county clerk’s office or apply for a marriage license online by visiting this link. To apply in person, you will need to visit the county clerk’s office where you intend to get the marriage license for any specific requirements.

Steps to apply for a marriage license for your Zion National Park Elopement

• You will both need to complete an in-person application at the county clerk
• You both need to state your name, address, date of birth, and social security number
• Valid government-issued identification must be presented, such as your passport, birth certificate, driver’s license, or state ID card
• You must both also provide the names and birthplaces of both of your parents, including your mother’s maiden name
• You will need to pay a fee to obtain your marriage license, which comes with two certified copies

Understanding Park Entrances Before Selecting a Zion Wedding Venue

There are 4 main areas of Zion National Park. The overnight accommodations and venue you select will largely depend on which area of the park you’d like to access.

Each of these areas on the map includes an entrance to Zion National Park. Three of these are official entrances and, one is unofficial. 

It’s important to note, there is only one location inside of Zion proper that can serve as a wedding venue, and that is Zion Lodge. Zion Lodge offers one large room that can accommodate up to 50 people. Typically, this space will need to be reserved at least 10-12 months in advance. It might be the best option for you if you want to stay at the lodge. Otherwise, any wedding you select will be located near or outside of Zion. It is not uncommon for a wedding venue or accomodations. to bear the name ‘Zion’ but oftentimes be up to an hour or an hour and a half away from Zion.

Zion Main Canyon – Springdale UT

By far, the most popular area would be the south entrance in Springdale. It offers the most amenities and nearby attractions. It’s the only area in Zion that requires a shuttle bus. Or you can opt for an e-bike instead. Entering Zion National Park through this entrance will provide you access to:

• Angels Landing
• The Narrows
• Emerald Pools  
• Zion Lodge 

Kolob Canyons – Kanarraville, Toquerville

Conversely, Kolob Canyons is much quieter than Springdale. It is located 45 minutes from the South entrance in Springdale and closest to the town of Karnarraville. This entrance is an amazing option if you are selecting a wedding venue or overnight accommodations in Cedar City and Toquerville. Entering Zion National Park  through this entrance will provide you with access to:

• Timber Creek
• Taylor Creek 

East Entrance – Orderville, Kanab, Mt Carmel

If you’re looking for an entrance to Zion National Park that has pull-offs where you can access countless slot canyons, you’ll find it at the east entrance. I’ve also been excited to see that Zion is building a new up and coming East Entrance Visitor Center complete with all the modern amenities needed for you to enjoy the park. Entering Zion National Park  through the east entrance will provide you with access to:

• Canyon Overlook

Unofficial Entrance – Virgin, UT

Located on Zion Kolob Terrace Road, you’ll find the ‘unofficial entrance’. It’s just west of the main gate in Virgin, Utah. Entering Zion National Park  through this entrance will provide you with access to:

• Subway
• North Gate Peeks
• Lambs Knoll
• Kolob Reservoir 

Knowing more about each of these locations should help you make a decision about where to stay and where to host your wedding reception after your Zion elopement. Now that you know the park a little better, here are some of the best Zion National Park wedding venues, broken out by location!

Zion National Park Wedding Venues in Springdale with Overnight Accommodations

Without a doubt, Springdale is the most popular location to stay when visiting Zion. Springdale provides quick and easy access to Zion. From Springdale, the entrance to Zion is located on the south end of the park. But Springdale is also a great ‘hub’ for exploring local attractions such as shops and restaurants. Lastly, it’s one of the best locations to stay if you plan on taking advantage of as many fun adventures as possible during your stay! Below, you’ll find a list of Zion National Park wedding venues with and without overnight accommodations.

1. Cliffrose Lodge

The Cliffrose Lodge in Springdale is half a mile from the Zion National Park Visitor Center and just five minutes from Zion Canyon. Cliffrose offers two unique spaces to host your Zion elopement or wedding: their ballroom or their focus room. The Ballroom at Cliffrose Lodge can accommodate 50 to 175 guests. Meanwhile, the focus room can accommodate 12 to 35 guests.

Amenities | Free parking, on-site restaurant, room service, outdoor pool, hot tub

Location | 281 Zion Park Blvd, Springdale, Utah, 84767

2. Cable Mountain Lodge

Searching for Zion National Park wedding venues with an amazing view? Cable Mountain Lodge is conveniently located just minutes from Zion and provides breathtaking views of the Canyon. Cable Mountain Lodge offers indoor and outdoor wedding venue spaces with banquet seating for up to 52 guests, providing an unforgettable wedding day experience surrounded by the natural beauty of Zion.

Amenities | Convenient access, picnic area, pool, free parking, 

Location | 147 Zion Park Blvd. Springdale, UT 84767   

3. Red Rock Chalet

The Red Rock Chalet  is part of Zion Red Rock, a group of bed and breakfasts conveniently located on the same stretch of land. The Chalet is located just minutes away from Virgin River, where you can access the Rockville bridge. The Chalet encompasses all that Zion National Park Wedding Venues have to offer, with modern amenities and stunning mountain views overlooking the park. In total the Chalet can accommodate up to 22 guests, making it a beautiful location for your Zion elopement reception.  

Amenities | Game room, full kitchen, outdoor hot tub

Location | 985 West 75 South Rockville, UT 84763

4. Red Rock Oasis

Also located within Zion Red Rock, the Red Rock Oasis offers 15 sprawling acres of natural beauty in every direction. The Red Rock Oasis is a 10-minute drive from Zion National Park. The main house of the oasis includes 7 bedrooms, 5 full bathrooms a half bathroom. Conversely, the connecting ‘bunkhouse’ across the drive also offers 7 different sleeping quarters and two full bathrooms. Combined, both of these spaces will allow you to accommodate up to 56 guests for your Zion elopement. 

Amenities | Outdoor swimming pool with slide, hot tub, children’s playground, sauna, theater, & indoor soccer field

Location | 955 West 250 South Rockville, UT 84763

5. Red Rock Villa

Lastly, Zion Red Rock offers a full villa called the Red Rock Villa. The Red Rock villa is a 10-minute drive from Zion National Park. The villa is stunning and the architecture evokes sensations of the Tuscan countryside. In total, the spacious villa at Red Rock can sleep up to 58 people with 11 rooms and an additional 3 semi-private sleeping spaces, and 12 bathrooms. By far, the villa provides one of the most stunning backdrops at Zion Red Rock and has space to host your wedding ceremony and your reception.

Amenities | Private swimming pool, hot tub, sauna, private home theater, 2 full-size pickleball courts, playground, and game room

Location | 991 W 230 S Rockville, UT 84763

Zion National Park Wedding Venues in Springdale

Searching for Zion National Park wedding venues that do not provide hotel amenities or overnight accommodations? Below are two additional  Zion National Park wedding venues in Springdale that offer a ‘venue only’ experience. 

1. The Bit and Spur

Bit and Spur is a spacious outdoor wedding venue and restaurant located in Springdale. They host weddings under the stars with epic views in the not-so-far-off distance. Bit and Spur wedding receptions can be configured with dance floors, family-style seating, or pretty much whatever you have in mind for your Zion elopement. They do not have a wedding planner on-site, so if you need assistance ahead of your wedding, you will have to hire a wedding planner. All catering is done in-house, and their delectable offerings include stick-to-your-ribs comfort foods that your guests will savor.

Lastly, the Bit and Spur recently added Canyon Casitas as part of their newest expansions, offering overnight accommodations for maximum convenience. All 5 of their newly opened Casitas are luxurious and come fully stocked with any amenities you may need during your stay! You will receive a discount to stay at the Casitas with a booked wedding at The Bit and Spur.

Location | 1212 Zion Park Blvd, Springdale, UT 84767

Contact | 435.772.3498 or bitandspur@infowest.com

2. Gathering By Black Walnut

For another take on Zion National Park Wedding Venues, Gatherings by Black Walnut offers wedding celebrations both indoors and outdoors. For indoor wedding celebrations, Black Walnut has a spacious ballroom that provides awe-inspiring views of Zion Canyon. The room features sky-high vaulted ceilings, a large stone fireplace, and a moving wall that allows you to extend your event space into a private outdoor courtyard that is attached to the ballroom. Needless to say, this is not your average ballroom!

If you want to host an outdoor wedding, Black Walnut offers the grove on Springdale Pond or The Meadow. Each of these spaces is lush, with stunning, all-encompassing views of the surrounding natural beauty in the heart of Zion!

Although Gatering does not offer overnight accommodations, Springhill Suites by Marriott is located directly behind the property of the venue. Offering the perfect accommodation for the venue options that Black Walnut Catering offers.

Location | 1149 Zion Park Blvd. Springdale, UT 84767 

Total Capacity | Black Walnut can accommodate weddings with up to 250 guests in attendance

Contact | 435.772.3700 ext. 102 or you can use the contact form located on their website

Wedding Venues Near Kolob Canyons [West of Zion]

Searching for Zion National Park wedding venues in Kolob Canyons, located to the west of Zion? Kolob Canyon is way less crowded than Springdale and still provides stunning views of Zion National Park. If you’re looking for a quieter alternative to Springdale, you just might want to host your Zion elopement in Kolob Canyons. Here are two Zion National Park wedding venues to consider. 

1. The Shangri-La Event Center

Charming, quaint, and a little like a dream, The Shangri-La Event Center offers couples a serene lake, a white gazebo, and idyllic views in every direction. Shangri-La has the ability to accommodate up to 150 wedding guests and they offer full-day or half-day rentals with convenient on-site parking for your guests. Additionally, your venue rental also comes with tables and chairs (no hiring a rental company) as well as setup and breakdown of your wedding.

Location | 1700 S. Shangri-la Road Toquerville UT, 84774

Contact | 435.990.3711 or reservations@shangrilaeventcenter.com

2. The Springs, Weddings, and Events

The Springs is elevated, whimsical, and scenic. All in all, The Springs offers space to host weddings with up to 125 guests in attendance. Additionally, The Springs is a 15-minute drive to Zion, making it an ideal location to host your dreamy celebration after reciting your vows. The Springs offers full-day, half-day, and elopement packages, making it easy to plan the Zion wedding or elopement of your dreams.

Location | 580 E Spring Dr. Toquerville, UT 84774

Contact | 435.421.9756, thespringsweddingsandevents@gmail.com, or you can use their contact form here

Virgin Zion National Park Wedding Venues – Unofficial Entrance Virgin, UT

Remember that unofficial entrance to Zion National Park I mentioned earlier? It’s located on Zion Kolob Terrace Road, just west of the main entrance in Virgin, Utah. 

1. Lazalu, Zion Retreat

Undeniably, Lazalu lives up to its tagline! When you first click on their site you’ll be met with the phrase “easy to find, hard to forget,” and it couldn’t be more true. This scenic retreat offers a tranquil stay in a picturesque location. They are also a full-blown wedding venue, that hosts wedding ceremonies and receptions. Lazalu has the ability to host weddings with anywhere from 30 to 220 guests! They embrace couples planning a Zion elopement along with couples who prefer a more traditional wedding day experience with the gorgeous terrain in the backdrop. 

Location | 11 Kolob Terrace Rd, Virgin, UT 84779

Contact | 435.619.4299

2. Zion Villa True North

Directly located in Zion National Park, Zion Villa True North is within walking distance of hiking trails, caves, and overlooks. The surrounding beauty of the park creates the most immersive experience possible, completely enveloping you during your stay. Wedding ceremonies at True North take place outdoors at the base of the cliffs, or on the patio. True North is for you if you are planning a Zion elopement that is a ‘just the two of us’ kind of experience or a wedding day with 12 less in attendance in order to keep weddings intimate and sacred.

Location | 9 Kolob Terrace Rd, Virgin, UT 84779

Contact | 435.668.7884 or welcome@zionvilla.com

3. Zion Wild Flower Inn

A dream wedding venue needs a dreamy view. The Zion Wild Flower Inn has unencumbered views so you can say I do with the canyon in the backdrop. It’s the perfect setting for sunset vows followed by a rocking party under the stars. On the hunt for Zion National Park wedding venues with overnight accommodations? The Wild Flower Inn has resort amenities that combine modern luxuries with a camping-centric experience. 

Location | 100 Kolob Terrace Rd. Virgin, Utah 84779

Contact | 435.522.5010 or info@zionwildflower.com

4. Zion on the 9

Last on the list of Virgin River Zion National Park Wedding Venues is Zion on the 9! At Zion on the 9, you’ll find low-key vibes with all kinds of accommodations. Including a mini airstream, a cabin, and a lodge. Wedding celebrations at Zion on the 9 take place outdoors with the same cozy vibe as their overnight accommodations. They offer Zion elopement packages for weddings with 25 guests all the way up to large wedding celebrations that include 100 guests. Zion on the 9 also has a team on-site to help you plan each detail of your dream wedding or elopement.

Location | 128 220 W, Virgin, UT

Contact | 702.883.0942 or info@ziononthe9.com

Zion National Park Wedding Venues Near East Entrance – Orderville,  Kanab, and Mt. Carmel

Still considering which side of Zion to stay on or host your wedding? The east side of Zion offers the same quiet experience of Kolob Canyons but with easy access to Observation Point, Canyon Overlook, Mt. Carmel, Mt. Carmel, Kanab, Bryce, Ponderosa, and Numbers slot canyons. Also, if you’re planning your Zion wedding or elopement for the summer, the east side tends to be a bit cooler due to its higher elevation. Here are 3 Zion National Park wedding venues that you’ll find located on the east side.

1. BaseCamp 37°

If you’re dreaming of campfires, s’mores, and nights spent under the stars, BaseCamp 37° provides an affordable yet luxurious glamping experience. Set in the desert, this stunning experience offers safari-style tents filled with plush bedding and cozy amenities. BaseCamp 37° is conveniently located near Zion, Bryce Canyon, and other local iconic landmarks. They offer a getaway for couples with a sense of adventure who also want to bring their furbabies along for the trip!

Location | 5951 East Eight Mile Gap Rd., Kanab, Utah 84741 

Contact | 435.644-8701 landline, 425.443-3894 cell or info@basecamp37.net

2. The Lodge at East Zion – East Zion Resort

The Lodge at East Zion offers overnight accommodations along with dedicated event spaces to host your Zion wedding. The resort is a picture-perfect backdrop where their ceremony space is nestled up against an astonishing red rock formation. In total, the property is over 75 acres, and the space is well-maintained and cared for at every turn. For an indoor wedding at The Lodge at East Zion, the venue can accommodate up to 100 guests, their picture-perfect outdoor space can host up to 300 guests.

Location | 490 East State Street, Orderville, UT 84758

Contact | 833.378.9466, info@eastzionresort.com, or via the contact form on their website

3. Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort

If you want a unique glamping experience during your stay, you’ll find it at Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort. The ranch also offers group vacation home rentals, private cabin suites, and fully immersive activities and adventures to enjoy year-round. For more information on hosting your Zion wedding or elopement at the Ponderosa, you will have to reach out to the ranch directly.

Location | Twin Knolls Road, Orderville, Utah

Contact | 435.648.2700, esort@zionponderosa.com, or via the contact form on the home page of their website.

4. Zion Mountain Ranch

Located just three miles from the east entrance of Zion National Park lies Zion Mountain Ranch. It is a venue that provides overnight accommodations and embraces the welcoming spirit of a truly Western experience. Zion Mountain Ranch is also home to a roaming herd of buffalo! You’ll find the overnight accommodations oversized and luxurious, with plenty of space for you, your partner, and your traveling companions. Zion Mountain Ranch offers an onsite restaurant that provides a farm-to-table dining experience through their organic gardens and aquaponic greenhouses.

Location | 9065 West Highway 9 , Mount Carmel, Utah

Contact |  435.648.2555, or via the contact form on the home page of their website.

5. Cave Lakes Canyon

Cave Lakes Canyon is a truly breathtaking backdrop for your wedding in Zion. The venue offers over 1400 acres of sweeping views, framed by majestic red rock canyons. Cave Lakes Canyon is an exclusive-use wedding venue in Zion that also offers overnight accommodations. Additionally, the venue provides space for weddings, both intimate and grand. There are no permits or required paperwork for hosting your wedding at Cave Lakes Canyon, and you still receive access to the same stunning views that you would from inside the park. 

Location | 2750 W 3200 N, Kanab, UT 84741

Contact | ‪435.572-0988‬, or info@cavelakes.com

6. Best Friends Animal Sanctuary  & Angel’s Landing Amphitheater

This one is for the couples that have a deep love for fur babies! Best Friends Animal Sanctuary is in fact an animal rescue, but they also offer overnight accommodations at their cabins, cottages, and RV sites. Overnight stays at Best Friends are nestled in the red-rock cliffs of Angel Canyon. From here you’ll have a beautiful view of the horse pastures. And who knows, your Zion elopement or wedding might even end with you welcoming home a brand new family member! Best Friends is great for couples who wish to get married in the park with a ‘just the two of us experience’. Or for couples who wish to host their ceremony and reception at the nearby Angel’s Landing Amphitheater.

Location | 5001 Angel Canyon Road Kanab, UT 84741

Contact | 435.688.2327, or book directly through their website.

Zion Elopement Photographer

With over 11 years of experience as a Zion elopement photographer, my approach includes guided support through a trusted experience. I am there by your side every step of the way, ensuring that your elopement in Zion is an amazing, once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s not just about the photos. It’s about creating an intentional wedding filled with adventure that feels like you every step of the way. I’ll be your planner, your guide, your photographer, and your teammate, immersing you in a custom-crafted elopement that is filled with meaning and fun from start to finish.

My process will also connect you with trusted local vendors as I guide you through the planning logistics of hosting your wedding near or in Zion. I will provide you with insight into exploring Zion, including safety measures and detailed information for you and your guests. 

I’m a wilderness first responder and a wedding photographer, and I understand that trust is a key component in planning your exceptional Zion elopement. To get in touch with me, you can use the contact button below.