Zion National Park Elopement

Makayla and Anthony’s Zion National Park Elopement was the picture-perfect intimate celebration of their love story. Their dreamy, boho elopement at Zion Overlook was held in April and had the most beautiful spring weather. These two laughed their way through the park and we had such a blast exploring around. If you’re looking for inspiration for your own Zion National Park Elopement, then keep scrolling and check out this beautiful day.

Makayla + Anthony’s Zion National Park Elopement

The sweet couple pictured are from Virginia so they flew into Cedar City which is about one hour drive to Zion National Park. Makayla and Anthony got ready together at their Airbnb before meeting me at the park welcome center. This tiny home in Orderville that only sleeps 2 guests has stunning views of the mountain and is the perfect romantic place to start your elopement day. Imagine waking up to those views of Eastern Zion with all that natural light coming through… talk about an ideal location that is about 25 minutes away from the eastern entrance at Zion National Park.

As I was on my way to shoot their Zion National Park Elopement, Makayla texted me and told me she had forgotten her bouquet that she ordered from Etsy back home. I told her not to worry that I would handle it! I stopped at Trader Joe’s on my way to the park and picked up some fresh flowers to make a bridal bouquet and to my surprise, it turned out pretty good! 

When Makayla told me she wanted to hike in her wedding dress but didn’t want it to be too strenuous, I knew Zion Overlook was the perfect ceremony location. I sent her photos from a prior elopement that I shot there and she was mesmerized. 

Zion Overlook Trail

Zion Overlook is a 0.9 mile out-and-back easy trail that is beginner and kid friendly. Although it is easy to hike, the views are out of this world. Makayla and Anthony were in complete awe as they reached the top. One of my favorite parts of being a Zion elopement photographer is sharing the vast beauty of Zion to couples seeing it for the first time, nothing compares to that feeling.

We met at the Eastern park entrance around 4PM and carpooled up to the overlook parking lot. I would recommend bringing as few vehicles as possible as parking for this particular overlook is rather limited and challenging. 

The hike itself takes around 30-45 minutes to reach the top and as I stated prior, very easy to accomplish. When we reached the top, I gave Makayla and Anthony some space to take it all in and enjoy the views. We had a relaxed timeline that allowed for taking in the moment and not rushing to the next thing. 

Makayla and Antony had completed their legal paperwork back home, so this was a symbolic ceremony with just the two of them. It was important to them that their elopement day in Zion was about them and no one else. They said their vows overlooking the red rock formations at sunset and we explored the area soaking it all in. The weather was absolutely perfect, a nice spring day with a light breeze and not too hot.

If you’re considering having a Zion National Park Elopement, you are making a great decision. There is so much beauty and variety for backdrops. No pictures could ever do the rugged landscapes justice in my opinion. 

How to Elope in Zion National Park

Before I show the rest of their gallery, I wanted to let you know how you can have your own Zion National Park Elopement legally. Let’s jump right into it, shall we?

Some things you will need in order to get married in Zion National Park:

1. A permit is required regardless of group size. The fee is $100 and must be sent in at least three weeks before your elopement date. You can apply for your special use permit here. Zion National Park is a popular elopement destination so I recommend planning ahead and being flexible with your date.
2. In order to legally get married in Utah, you will need: an officiant and 2 witnesses over the age of 18, and a Utah marriage licence that is valid for 30 days after you get it.

There are only 5 locations within the park that you can hold your ceremony. These locations include:

• Temple of Sinawava: Maximum of 35 people.
• Menu Falls: Maximum of 10 people.
• Zion Lodge Lawn: Maximum of 75 people.
• Nature Center North Lawn: Maximum of 50 people.
• South Campground Amphitheater: Maximum of 100 people

While Zion Overlook is a popular photo destination, you’ll notice is it not on the approved ceremony location list. But don’t worry, we can go either before or after your ceremony and still get these epic photos!

Here’s more photos from Makayla and Anthony’s boho, adventurous Zion National Park Elopement… enjoy! 🙂

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Zion Elopement Photographer

Hi there! I’m Kristen – a Zion National Park elopement photographer that would love to capture your special day! When you book me for your Utah elopement, I will help you plan from start to finish. I thrive for creating a memorable experience for you and your love to make sure you never forget a single detail on your wedding day.

Don’t take my word for it though, read this review from a recent bride that eloped in Zion National Park:

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Zion National Park Elopement Packages

Photography Coverage:

I offer partial (6-8 hours) and full day coverage (10-12 hours, that can be split between 2 days) to best suit your adventurous Zion National Park elopement. I know to some people, that seems like a lot of hours for an elopement. However, I truly believe that even though you’ve decided to go the more untraditional route, your day still deserves to be remembered. I want to be there for the sweet and slow getting ready moments, to the mid-day first look, all the way to last few moments of your first day as a married couple.

Help with planning and figuring out the details:

We can jump on a phone call at any point during the planning process. You’re welcome to text me anytime. I will send you recommendations for locations, vendors, and places to stay. I also research the best activities based on your preferences and create a list for you. You tell me your vision for your day, and I will do everything in my power to make it come true. You can expect a personalized timeline for your day that will keep everyone on track to not miss a thing.

Full day coverage starting at $5000

Partial day coverage starting at $3400

If you want to elope in Utah but not sure where to start, check out my Utah Elopement Guide here. Ready to start planning your Zion National Park Elopement? Get in contact with me here 🙂