If you’re dreaming of an elopement in Utah, you’re in for a treat. From stunning red rock landscapes to lush mountain forests, Utah offers a diverse range of breathtaking locations for couples looking to say “I do” in the great outdoors. The best part? Many of these locations are completely free! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through 20 free places to elope in Utah, sorted by area, to help you find the perfect spot to start your forever adventure.
Why Elope in Utah?
Utah is a haven for adventurous couples who want a scenic, intimate ceremony surrounded by natural beauty. Whether you’re into desert landscapes, alpine lakes, or majestic canyons, Utah has it all. Eloping in Utah also gives you access to national parks, state parks, and national forests without the hefty venue fees associated with traditional weddings. Plus, elopements are a great way to avoid large crowds, allowing you to focus on the love and connection between you and your partner.
Free or Low Cost Places to Elope in Northern Utah
Antelope Island State Park
Located in the Great Salt Lake, Antelope Island offers stunning views of both the lake and the surrounding mountains. The island is home to free-roaming bison, which can make for a truly unique backdrop for your elopement. With expansive beaches, rolling hills, and the serene lake, this spot is perfect for couples looking for a peaceful setting.
Logan Canyon
Logan Canyon is a hidden gem in northern Utah. Its lush forests, dramatic cliffs, and riverside spots offer plenty of options for eloping couples. Tony Grove Lake is a stunning location within the canyon, featuring clear blue water and wildflowers in the summer.
Bear Lake Overlook
Bear Lake, known for its turquoise water, is often called the “Caribbean of the Rockies.” The Bear Lake Overlook offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains, providing an idyllic setting for a free elopement with incredible scenery.
Free or Low Cost Places to Elope in Salt Lake City Area
Millcreek Canyon
Located just minutes from downtown Salt Lake City, Millcreek Canyon is a popular spot for outdoor lovers. With multiple trailheads, secluded picnic areas, and stunning overlooks, Millcreek Canyon offers several spots for couples looking for a quiet, forested setting.
The Great Salt Lake
The shores of the Great Salt Lake provide a dramatic and surreal backdrop for an elopement. Whether you’re drawn to the white salt flats or the shimmering lake, this area offers a unique elopement experience close to Salt Lake City.
Ensign Peak
For couples looking for a quick and scenic elopement spot with a view of Salt Lake City, Ensign Peak is a great option. After a short hike, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. This spot is perfect for sunrise or sunset ceremonies.
Free or Low Cost Places to Elope in Central Utah
Fishlake National Forest
Fishlake National Forest is home to Utah’s largest natural mountain lake, Fish Lake. The surrounding aspen forests, mountain meadows, and serene lakeside spots provide the perfect setting for a quiet and private elopement.
Maple Canyon
Known for its unique cobblestone cliffs, Maple Canyon is a popular spot for rock climbers, but it’s also a fantastic place to elope. The canyon offers secluded spots for a ceremony, surrounded by towering canyon walls and lush greenery.
Capitol Reef National Park (Free Areas)
While some areas of Capitol Reef require an entrance fee, there are still plenty of free, accessible locations for elopements. The park’s vast desert landscape, red rock formations, and orchards provide a stunning backdrop for couples looking for a quiet elopement in a lesser-known national park.
Free or Low Cost Places to Elope in Southern Utah
Zion National Park (Kolob Terrace Road)
While Zion National Park typically requires a fee, you can access Kolob Terrace Road, a free area of the park, for a secluded and scenic elopement. This less-visited part of Zion offers incredible views of towering cliffs and lush valleys without the crowds found in the main park.
Snow Canyon State Park
Located near St. George, Snow Canyon State Park is a beautiful red rock park with striking white sandstone and lava flows. It’s less crowded than nearby national parks, making it a great option for a free and intimate elopement.
Sand Hollow State Park
Sand Hollow is a striking spot known for its red sand beaches and bright blue reservoir. Located in southern Utah, the park offers a unique blend of desert and water landscapes. It’s a peaceful location for an elopement with plenty of scenic spots around the lake.
Red Cliffs Desert Reserve
The Red Cliffs Desert Reserve near St. George offers dramatic red rock landscapes, slot canyons, and ancient petroglyphs. The reserve is free to visit, and its diverse landscapes offer endless opportunities for a stunning desert elopement.
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
The Coral Pink Sand Dunes, located near Kanab, offer a unique and otherworldly setting for your elopement. The park’s shifting red sand dunes create an intimate, quiet environment where you and your partner can exchange vows in the desert wilderness.
Cedar Breaks National Monument
Cedar Breaks is often compared to a mini Bryce Canyon. With its vibrant red rock amphitheater, high elevation, and wildflower-filled meadows, this national monument is a free, beautiful location for couples seeking a high-mountain desert elopement.
Free or Low Cost Places to Elope in Moab Area
Arches National Park (Free Areas)
While there is a fee to enter Arches National Park, there are several free spots just outside the park that offer similar stunning red rock landscapes. Locations such as Corona Arch and Fisher Towers provide dramatic arches and spires perfect for elopement ceremonies.
Canyonlands National Park (Island in the Sky Overlook)
Canyonlands is another park that typically requires a fee, but the Island in the Sky district offers free overlooks just outside the entrance. The expansive views of canyons and the Colorado River make this a great spot for adventurous couples looking to elope with a view.
Dead Horse Point State Park
Dead Horse Point State Park offers dramatic views of the Colorado River winding through massive red rock canyons. The park’s many overlooks and quiet trails make it a perfect spot for a private, scenic elopement.
La Sal Mountains
Just outside of Moab, the La Sal Mountains provide a lush contrast to the red rock desert below. The high-altitude lakes, meadows, and forested areas offer plenty of free spots to elope with stunning mountain views.
Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area
Located on the Utah-Wyoming border, Flaming Gorge offers breathtaking views of the reservoir and surrounding cliffs. The red rock formations, blue water, and vast open spaces make it a gorgeous and peaceful location for an elopement.
Tips for Eloping in Utah
- Permits: While many of these locations are free to visit, some may require a special use permit for wedding ceremonies. Be sure to check with the managing agency to see if a permit is necessary.
- Best Time to Elope: Spring and fall are the best times to elope in Utah, offering mild temperatures and fewer crowds. If you’re planning a desert elopement, avoid the summer months due to extreme heat.
- Leave No Trace: Utah’s natural beauty is fragile, so it’s important to practice Leave No Trace principles during your elopement. Stick to designated trails, pack out all trash, and be mindful of the environment.
Utah is a dream destination for couples looking to elope in a natural, breathtaking setting. Whether you want to exchange vows in a desert canyon, on a mountaintop, or by a crystal-clear lake, there’s a free location in Utah that’s perfect for your special day. By choosing one of these 20 free places to elope in Utah, you’ll not only save money but also create unforgettable memories in one of the most beautiful states in the U.S. If you’re looking for someone to artfully and authentically document your Utah elopement, contact me here and let’s do the dang thing!
