Utah Elopement Ceremony Location Spotlight: Dead Horse Point, Moab
Dead Horse Point Elopements
Canyons, Cliffs + Crimson Light
Offering sweeping views of the Colorado River and stunning views of Canyonlands National Park, Dead Horse Point is one of the most photographed vistas in the world. Located 45 minutes from the town of Moab, its spectacular canyons are breathtaking—especially when they are bathed in a sunrise or sunset's soft, golden light. Some visitors even claim the views at this special site—a soaring 2,000 feet above the Colorado River—are more spectacular than the Grand Canyon.
Accompanying this blog are my dreamy images from two “styled shoots” (shout out to the Love on Earth photography workshop!) that we staged at this picturesque point. I hope it gives you some inspiration!
If this dusty-rose desert-scape is on the short list for your intimate elopement, be sure to check out my recommended vendors, venues, and BnB’s in my
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Ceremony Sites at Dead Horse Point
At Dead Horse State Park, you have five scenic sites to choose from for your ceremony. Utah State Parks describes the pros and cons of each site.
La Sal: This scenic site on the park's northwest side has gorgeous views. However, be aware there are sloping, uneven surfaces.
Cliff Side: Located on the park's southwest side, Cliff Side is the most isolated of the five sites if you desire to escape any crowds. More exposed than the other sites, this site also has an uneven surface.
West Bench: Easily accessible, West Bench is centrally located on the park's south end. While it is scenic like the others, it is also a visitor favorite and may be more crowded than the other sites.
Point Bench: Like its name, Point Bench has a stone bench overlooking the expansive views. This site is easily accessible and is the smallest of the sites. Point Bench can only accommodate up to five people and is located on the southeast end of the park.
Shade Shelter: On the east end of Dead Horse Point is the Shade Shelter Site. This is the largest of the available sites. With gorgeous views, this site is larger than the others and another favorite among visitors. Of the five sites, Shade Shelter is ADA accessible, has access to shade, and allows chairs.
Dead Horse Point Entrance Fees + Wedding Permits
If Dead Horse Point sounds like your dream desert elopement location, there are a few key details to know. First, Utah’s State Parks allows wedding and elopement ceremonies and photography at this special site. However, they list a few fees and rules to consider in their wedding packet.
A special use permit should be secured at least 30 days before your desired date. The permit costs range from $60 to $100, depending on the number of people in attendance. The $60 price point includes a $10 application fee, and the $50 permit fee is good for up to 40 people. This price point covers most elopements.
On the ceremony day, there is a $20 entrance charge per vehicle, covering up to 8 people per vehicle. If you choose to take a bus instead, the cost is $5 per person.
At the park manager’s discretion, a fee may be associated with ranger monitoring. However, this is usually not necessary.
Other Considerations to Keep in Mind
These pro tips will help you plan your intimate elopement at Dead Horse Point State Park. But of course reach out with any other questions you have!
Whether you hope for snow-dusted canyons or bright wildflowers blooming, weddings at Dead Horse Point are allowed all year long.
Your beloved pooch is allowed on the hiking trails within Dead Horse (West Rim Trail, East Rim Trail, and the Bighorn Overlook Trail) too. Just follow any specific rules posted for dogs in the park, and you’ll be set for your pet-friendly wedding in Moab.
Flowers are allowed. However, please avoid bringing plants that may become invasive, such as pampas grass, which is currently a popular addition to dried arrangements.
Anything tossed or released that cannot be easily cleaned up (i.e., rice, seeds, or wildlife like butterflies) is not allowed.
Ensure respectfulness of the wildlife and only use designated trails to access sites.
And lastly, loud music, artificial lighting, or open flames (i.e. sparklers) aren’t allowed in the park.
Workshop Organizer: Love on Earth
Photographer: Andrea Enger Photography
Models: Natalie + Tyson; Rachel + Thomas
Elopement Location: Dead Horse Point, Moab, Utah
Florist: Succulents for Hire
Hair + Makeup: Seventh Ave Beauty
Decor: Intimate Moab Weddings
Ready to Celebrate Your Day Your Way?
Elopement Photographer Andrea Enger (Portrait by Realm Studios)
Find out how I can help make that happen!
If you’re ready to get the ball rolling to secure your photographer, that’s great!
You can do that by filling out the form below, by emailing me directly at andrea@andreaengerphotography.com, or by calling/texting me at (720) 739-0784. I look forward to hearing from you!
If you’re still in the research phase, I hear ya! Here are some more resources that my couples have found helpful. I hope you do, too!