Let’s be real—if you’re dreaming of an elopement that’s equal parts jaw-dropping and off the beaten path, you’ve got to elope in Dead Horse State Park. Tucked away in the heart of Utah, this desert gem offers dramatic views, rugged trails, and a level of privacy that’s hard to beat. So, if you’re looking for an epic backdrop for your “I dos,” keep reading—Dead Horse State Park might just be your perfect elopement destination!

What You Need to Know Before You Elope in Dead Horse State Park

First things first—let’s chat about why Dead Horse State Park is a total hidden treasure. This 5,362-acre park sits on a stunning plateau, offering sweeping views of canyons, cliffs, and the Colorado River. It’s not just about the scenery though—this park is a Dark Sky Area, which means you’ll get a front-row seat to some seriously epic stargazing after your ceremony. Talk about ending your elopement with a bang, right?

And let’s not forget the best part—Dead Horse State Park isn’t nearly as crowded as its more famous cousin, Arches National Park. This makes it perfect for couples looking for a more intimate and serene elopement experience. To learn more about eloping at Dead Horse State Park, click here.

Location, Location, Location!

Dead Horse State Park sits pretty just 45 minutes from Moab and about 4 hours southeast of Salt Lake City. With miles of trails, scenic overlooks, and that quiet desert charm, it’s easy to get to and just as easy to fall in love with.

A quick heads-up though—this park’s secluded vibes mean it’s a bit less crowded, but it’s also slightly harder to get to than some other spots. That’s exactly why you should elope in Dead Horse State Park—the journey feels like a secret adventure, just you and your partner!

Best Hikes to Experience After You Elope in Dead Horse State Park

One of the things we love about this park? Its hiking. After your ceremony, take a stroll through some of these incredible trails:

• Dead Horse Rim Loop Trail:
  A moderately difficult trail offering some of the best views in the park.
• Big Horn Overlook Trail:
  For those epic cliffside photos.
• Colorado River Overlook Trail:
  So you can soak in the view of the winding river below.
• Great Pyramid Loop Trail:
  For those who want a little challenge and a lot of beauty.

Bonus: If you’re looking for something a bit more off-the-beaten-path, you can even enjoy some good old-fashioned stargazing in one of the clearest skies you’ll find.

Fun Things to Do After You Elope in Dead Horse State Park

So, you’ve tied the knot—but why stop the fun there? Here are some cool activities you can add to your Dead Horse State Park elopement experience:

• Stargazing (duh, it’s a Dark Sky area!)
• Picnicking with a view (romantic, anyone?)
• Mountain biking (if you’re into adventure)
• Hot air balloon rides (for that perfect post-elopement thrill)
• Rock climbing & bouldering for the brave
• Horseback riding (because who doesn’t want a post-wedding horse ride?)

And don’t forget about your fur babies! If you want to bring your pup to your Dead Horse State Park elopement, we say go for it—dogs are welcome here!

Everything You Need to Know About Eloping at Dead Horse State Park

Okay, so now that you’re convinced this is the perfect spot, let’s dive into the logistics. There are a few things you’ll need to know before you say “I do” here.

Rules and Regulations for Your Dead Horse State Park Elopement

• Wedding party size:
  The max for larger ceremonies is 100 people, but for a more intimate affair (50 or fewer), there are plenty of options. Just keep in mind, no private wedding sites, so your ceremony location is open to the public.
• Flowers:
  Live flowers? Nope. But artificial flowers are a go! We’ve got an amazing shop we can recommend for the most realistic faux flowers that look like the real deal.
• Throwing things:
  No confetti, rice, or seeds allowed. Keep it tidy, folks!
• Pets:
  Domestic dogs are welcome at your ceremony, as long as you follow the park’s pet regulations.
• Drones:
  Drone photography is a no-go from March to October (unless you have a special permit). But don’t worry—you can still get those stunning aerial shots in the off-season.
• Parking:
  No matter what, make sure your vehicles are parked in the designated spots—no exceptions!
• Music and decorations:
  Amplified music and extravagant decor aren’t allowed, but that just means you get to keep things simple and natural (and we think that’s pretty perfect).

The Best Time to Elope in Dead Horse State Park

When it comes to the best time to elope in Dead Horse State Park, we’re all about spring (March-May) and fall (September-November). Why? These months offer mild temperatures and far fewer crowds compared to summer. Avoid the summer heat and the chilly winter, and you’ve got yourself an ideal elopement season!

And for those looking for total peace and privacy? Opt for a weekday ceremony (Monday-Thursday) to skip the weekend rush. Pro tip: Eloping during the off-season means you might have the whole place to yourselves!

The Legal Stuff You Need to Know

Before you start making wedding plans, let’s talk about paperwork:

• Special Use Permit:
  This is your golden ticket to eloping at Dead Horse State Park. Fill out the application form with as much detail as possible and send it over to dhoyt@utah.gov. Don’t forget that a Park Ranger may need to monitor your elopement, depending on the situation.
• Marriage License:
  You can apply for your marriage license in any county in Utah. For example, if you’re flying into Salt Lake City, you can grab your license there and use it in Grand County (where Dead Horse State Park is). Don’t forget to check for any appointment requirements or online application options before you go!
• Who Can Officiate:
  In Utah, ministers, judges, and even certain government officials can officiate your wedding. Want something more personal? You can have a loved one officiate—just make sure they’re legally recognized to do so!

Best Ceremony Locations in Dead Horse State Park

Now, let’s get down to the ceremony spots. There are 5 designated locations in the park where you can say “I do,” and they each offer something unique:

• Shade Shelter Site:
  The only ADA-accessible option. Popular, but with a beautiful shaded spot nearby.
• Cliffside Site:
  Privacy with stunning views—but a bit of a rugged walk.
• Point Bench Site:
  Small, but with breathtaking views of the canyon.
• West Bench Site:
  Gorgeous scenery and easily accessible—but be aware, it’s a bit more public.
• La Sal Site:
  Epic vistas with a slight slope, so it’s a bit more challenging but worth it!

The Cost to Elope in Dead Horse State Park

Here’s the deal on the cost: A Special Use Permit will set you back $60, which covers the $10 application fee and $50 permit fee. On your wedding day, you’ll also pay a $15 per vehicle fee (for up to 8 people), or $2 per person if you’re bringing in a larger group. Don’t forget, there’s also a $50/hr charge for ranger monitoring if needed. Oh, and your marriage license fee is separate from these costs.

Ready for Your Adventure?

Dead Horse State Park isn’t just a place to elope—it’s a place to make memories, explore, and start your adventure together. With fewer crowds, stunning views, and a sense of peace that’s hard to find in more touristy spots, it’s a fantastic location for couples looking to tie the knot in an extraordinary setting.

Jake and I are absolutely obsessed with this corner of Utah, and we’re here to help you plan every detail of your elopement. From the best locations to securing your marriage license, we’ve got you covered. Ready to start planning your Dead Horse State Park elopement? Reach out to us here!

Want more inspiration for your desert elopement? Check out our guide to eloping in Arches National Park!