A Little History
Moab is full of rich history dating back to 1878, when the first permanent settlers arrived in the valley. Before then Native Americans, including the Sabuagana Utes occupied the area. The combination of Native American and settled ranchers and farmers give Moab the culture and proud history that lives on today. You can find this throughout the town in their architecture, murals and museums.
Where To Say Your Vows When Eloping In Moab
Moab is packed with National Parks that serve serene and gorgeous views of the Red Desert. Giving you plenty of stunning locations to say your vows and have gorgeous bridals taken! Here are the approved locations by Arches National Park for Ceremonies and all the details you will need for planning your Moab Elopement.
La Sal Mountains Viewpoint
This location is perfect for a sunset elopement! Accommodating up to 50 people, La Sal Mountains Viewpoint has a beautiful overview of the red rock both inside and outside of the park. With a near by parking lot and sidewalks, this area is very accessible and friendly to all visitors. Including pets! Though some restrictions apply.
The Windows Section
If you are looking for a shorter and easier hike while eloping in Moab, then consider The Windows Section. This park of the National Park is described as thrilling and beautiful because of it’s unique landscape and arches. With a party of up to 25 people, this may just be the spot for you to say your vows!
Sand Dune Arch
Hike up the narrow trail to Sand Dune Arch where you will be surrounded by beautiful red rock for your elopement ceremony. True to it’s name, this location is covered with a base of sand. And with it being shaded for most of the day, it makes for a beautiful oasis while allowing up to 25 guests to join you for your big day!
Delicate Arch
If you are looking to get married in one of the most iconic locations in Utah, then Delicate Arch is the place for you! Invite up to 10 guests to celebrate your ceremony as you look over the red rock valley with snow capped mountains in the distance. The 3 mile hike may be a challenge for most, but will be totally worth it!
Delicate Arch Viewpoint
Enjoy Delicate Arch without the rigorous hike, by eloping at Delicate Arch Viewpoint. There are two different viewpoints that you can choose from depending on your ability and desire to hike. With a limit of 25 guests, you will be able to say your vows with beautiful views and all of your favorite people.
Pine Tree Arch
With beautiful wildflowers and gorgeous views, Pine Tree Arch is a wonderful option for an elopement! Bring up to 25 people with you as you hike up a favorite trail of the area. Eloping in Moab at Pine Tree Arch will create a beautiful and memorable day to say your vows!
Landscape Arch
One of the National Park’s most daring and bold arches has to be Landscape Arch. Make the enjoyable hike to one of the world’s longest stone spans for your “I-dos”. Have up to 10 guests for an intimate and romantic elopement in one of the most beautiful locations in Utah!
Park Avenue
One of the first attractions you will encounter when entering the National Park is Park Avenue. The one mile hike is easy for most visitors and spans the bottom of the canyon. Invite up to 15 friends and family as you elope at the bottom of the large monolith.
Devils Garden Campground Amphitheater
With the largest capacity for guests, of 80 visitors, you can get married in a red rock amphitheater at Devils Garden Campground. Surrounded by red rock and native shrubs, you and your guests will be comfortable in the convenient seating of the amphitheater. Then begin your adventure honeymoon by staying the night at Devils Garden Campground!
Panorama Point
Take a step back to admire wide open skies, arches and the red rocks at Panorama Point. Enjoy the stunning views while eloping in Moab with up to 50 guests. You will be in awe with all that you will be able to see from this location! Not to mention the excellent stargazing for after your wedding day has come to a close.
Each of these locations requires a permit with a $185 fee. You can apply for a permit here, as well as find more information on regulations and entrance. If you still need more information call the Special Use Permit Coordinator at 435-719-2123
2022 Update On Arches National Park
When it comes to eloping in Moab you want to be in the know for any updates with the National Park you plan on using for your wedding. Here are the latest updates on Arches park reservations and entry.
Arches is moving to a timed ticket entry system. This means that from April 3-Oct 3, visitors will need three things; a timed entry ticket, a photo ID, and a park entrance ticket. Timed Entry Tickets will not be required for those with camping, backcountry, Fiery Furnace, or special use permits (ie: elopements, elopement guests, and vendors). Tickets are released in three month blocks as follows:
January 3 at 8 am MST: April reservations (April 3–30)
February 1 at 8 am MST: May reservations (May 1–31)
March 1 at 8 am MST: June reservations (June 1–30)
April 1 at 8 am MDT: July reservations (July 1–31)
May 1 at 8 am MDT: August reservations (August 1–31)
June 1 at 8 am MDT: September reservations (September 1–30)
July 1 at 8 am MDT: October reservations (October 1–3)
Celebratory Dinner Restaurants
There are so many amazing places to eat after eloping in Moab! Whether you are looking for a quick bite together, or a full meal with your closest friends. You will find the best eateries and restaurants in Moab! Here are a few of my personal favorites.
Food Truck Park & Other Small Spots
The number one place to get food in Moab has to be the Food Truck Park! It has great variety and every option is actually really good. The Food Truck Park has a super friendly and fun atmosphere for a laid back wedding day meal.
Here are a few other options for a laid back and delicious meal that make my favorites list for the Moab area. The Broken Oar is a fun restaurant that sits right on the water and offers live bands. Visit Jailhouse Cafe for the best breakfast menu in Eastern Utah. And I can’t forget Sweet Cravings Bakery and Bistro for the amazing food and catering that they offer!
Fine Dining
In addition to the many delicious small restaurants around Moab, there are also some amazing fine dining options! Desert Bistro is typically opened seasonally and offers a wonderful arrangement of wines, beers and liquor. The warm atmosphere inside the restaurant provide comfort and relaxation.
Another one of my favorite fine dining spots for when eloping in Moab is The River Grill. Enjoy their seasonal menu with only the freshest of ingredients, while looking out on water. You will be impressed with the menu as well as the views of the red rocks and native landscaping.
Recreations For After Your Moab Elopement
Moab, Utah is a travel destination for many because of the many outdoor activities. And when eloping in Moab, you will want to embrace all that the area has to offer! These exhilarating recreations include:
Paragliding
Rappelling
Rock Climbing or Bouldering
SkyDiving
Base Jumping
Canyoneering
Mountain Biking
Exploring
Sightseeing
Hiking
Fishing
Guided Tours (River Float, Jeep Tour, Bike Tour, Horseback Riding)
Hot Tubbing
Hammocking
Local Class (Painting, Drawing, ect.)
Visit Local Breweries & Distilleries
Eloping in Moab may just be the best decision of your lives! From the beautiful red rocks and blue skies, to the amazing community and activities. Everything about Moab is perfect for an elopement. And that is why I specialize as a Moab Elopement Photographer. Because I believe every couple deserves to elope in one of the most adventurous locations in the west. Reach out and let’s start planning your Moab elopement!