As a Utah elopement photographer that travels all over the southwest, I often find myself helping couples choose from multiple amazing locations for their elopement. I know firsthand that it’s not easy to make a final decision when there’s so many beautiful places out there. So let me plead the case for eloping in Zion National Park, one of my favorite places ever and a location I call home for several months of the year.
#1 The Scenery Can’t Be Beat
The towering red rock formations of the Zion Canyon are unlike anything you will see anywhere else in the world. Combine that with waterfalls, rivers, slot canyons, and the desert that surrounds Zion, and you have one of the most unique places to get married. If you explore outside of the park, you will find even more unique rock formations and landscapes, that offer a totally different vibe than the views inside the park. When it comes to elopement days, I like to combine locations within the park with spots outside of the park so my couples can truly appreciate everything this area has to offer.
#2 Some of the Best Hiking Trails in the World are in Zion National Park
If you are an avid or aspiring hiker, then Zion National Park is an amazing place to check out! There are trails for everyone from experienced hikers to beginners to kids, and even handicap accessible trails.
You can hike The Narrows, which is the narrowest part of Zion Canyon, and you literally hike up the Virgin River in waders and waterproof shoes (available to rent at most of the outdoors stores in town). You can also hike Angel’s Landing, which is a world renowned hike with steep drop offs and amazing views of the canyon. There are also easier hikes like the Canyon Overlook, or intermediate hikes like Observation Point.
Beyond hiking, there are helicopter tours, horseback riding adventures, scenic drives, and 4×4 roads to explore. There’s lots of places outside of the park to explore, as well.
This location is outside of Zion National Park, which we had all to ourselves.
#3 The Town of Springdale is Adorable
When I’m helping couples decide on elopement locations, I often advise them to consider the town they want to stay in as well as the scenery. Luckily, the entrance to Zion National Park is located in an adorable town called Springdale. Since Springdale is located within the canyon, the views are amazing in every direction because you are surrounded by the towering red rocks of the park. You can stay at any of the hotels in Springdale and walk out your door to a bus stop that will take you right into the park, which can be incredibly convenient since parking is limited. There are also amazing coffee shops, breakfast spots, burger joints, restaurants, and stores. Springdale is awesome.
- Favorite coffee shop – Deep Creek Coffee
- Favorite sandwich shop – Cafe Soleil
- Favorite Brewery – Zion Brewery
- Favorite Apparel Store – Zion Outfitter
- Favorite lunch/casual dinner restaurant – Oscar’s (show up early, there’s almost always a line)
- Favorite fancy restaurant – Switchback Grille
#4 It’s Close to Other Gorgeous Parts of the US
Southern Utah is gorgeous, and Zion National Park is close to many other beautiful places you can visit. Here’s a list of some of my favorite nearby places, along with drive times. You can plan an epic road trip following your Zion elopement!
- Bryce Canyon National Park – 2 hour drive
- Las Vegas, Nevada – 2 and 1/2 hour drive
- Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend – 2 and 1/2 hour drive
- South Rim of the Grand Canyon – 4 and 1/2 hour drive
- Monument Valley – 4 and 1/4 hour drive
- Moab, Utah – 5 hour drive
- Sedona, Arizona – 5 hour drive
This is one of my favorite secret locations outside of the park, for either ceremonies or photos (or both!)
#5 Some of My Favorite Wedding Vendors are Located in Southern Utah
If you are looking for a dream team of vendors, then look no further! When it comes to elopements, my first love is obviously photography, but a close second is florals, and Bloomers it the best florist in the business! And when it comes to wedding planners and rentals, Forevermore Events will hook you up! I love working with these vendors. I also have a list of officiants and hair and makeup artists that will help make your wedding day amazing.
There you have it! Why you should elope in Zion National Park. Check out my travel page to see when I’ll be in Zion next! Or check out my blog post about How to Elope in Zion National Park!
