Why Choose Dead Horse State Park for Your Wedding

If you’re dreaming of an epic desert elopement with jaw-dropping canyon views, Dead Horse State Park is always my first recommendation! With its dramatic cliffs, stunning sunsets, and vast desert landscape, this park offers a secluded and intimate setting perfect for adventure-loving couples.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about getting married at Dead Horse State Park, including permits, best ceremony locations, weather conditions, and the pros and cons of choosing this breathtaking location for your wedding day. Click here to view the wedding packet from the park’s website.

Where Is Dead Horse Point State Park

Dead Horse Point State Park is located near Moab, Utah, and offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Colorado River and Canyonlands National Park. The park sits at an elevation of 5,900 feet and features deep red canyons, rugged cliffs, and an otherworldly desert landscape.

• Location: 32 miles from Moab, Utah
• Entrance Fee: $20 per vehicle (valid for two days)
• Park Hours: 6 AM – 10 PM
• Best Time to Visit: Spring (March-May) & Fall (September-November)
• Accessibility: Some areas are wheelchair accessible, but many trails involve uneven terrain

Do You Need a Permit to Get Married at Dead Horse State Park?

Yes! A Special Use Permit is required for any wedding or elopement ceremony in the park. Please note that these permits only apply to ceremonies, you are allowed to take wedding photos anywhere in the park with no permit required.

How to Apply for a Wedding Permit:

1. Contact the Park Office: Reach out to the Dead Horse Point State Park office to check for availability.
2. Submit an Application: Fill out the Special Use Permit application and submit it along with any required fees.
3. Pay the Fees: The permit fee is $60 but may vary depending on size and what you are wanting to use

Pro Tip: Apply for your permit at least 3 months in advance, as availability is limited, especially during peak seasons.

Dead Horse State Park Rules For Weddings & Elopements

1. The area is still open to the public even if you have a permit- so expect some crowds
2. Live flowers are not allowed- opt for artificial flowers instead
3. Seeds, confetti and rice are not allowed
4. Drone use is not allowed
5. Amplified music, lighting and large decorations are not allowed

Ceremony Locations in Dead Horse Point State Park

You can view a map of the locations with photos here.

• La Sal Site: Accommodates 25 people. Ideal for sunrise ceremonies
• Cliffside Site (my personal fave): Accommodates 25 people, great views of canyon and very accessible
• West Bench Site: Accommodates 50 people, can get busy since it is a popular viewing area
• Point Bench Site: Accommodates 5 people, must scramble down some rocks to get to
• Shade Shelter Site: Accommodates 100 people, is on a paved path, chairs are allowed here. However, not the most aesthetic for photos

Pro Tip: Sunrise and sunset offer the best lighting for photography, creating a magical atmosphere for your wedding portraits.

Weather Conditions at Dead Horse Point State Park

The high desert climate means extreme temperature variations, so planning around the weather is crucial.

• Spring (End of March-May): 50-75°F | Mild temperatures, blooming desert plants, and perfect lighting. (occasional storms)
• Summer (June-August): 80-100°F | Extremely hot, with little shade. Sunrise and sunset ceremonies are best.
• Fall (September-November): 50-75°F | Similar to spring, offering great weather and beautiful golden hues.
• Winter (December-Mid March): 20-50°F | Cold temperatures, possible snow, and fewer crowds.

Pro Tip: Avoid midday ceremonies in the summer to prevent heat exhaustion and discomfort for you and your guests.

Pros and Cons of Getting Married at Dead Horse Point State Park

Pros:

• Breathtaking Views: One of the most scenic wedding backdrops in the U.S.
• Secluded & Intimate: Less crowded than nearby Arches or Canyonlands National Park.
• Affordable: Permits are less expensive than many traditional venues.
• Epic Photography Opportunities: Sunrise and sunset light create unforgettable wedding photos.

Cons:

• Limited Facilities: No on-site lodging, minimal restroom access.
• Extreme Weather Conditions: Hot summers and cold winters and usually more wind.
• Permit Restrictions: Strict rules on decorations, music, and guest count.
• Accessibility Challenges: Some locations require light hiking to access.

Tips for Planning Your Dead Horse Point State Park Wedding

• Hire a Local Photographer: An experienced Utah photographer (like me!) knows the best spots, lighting, and how to navigate park regulations.
• Time Your Ceremony Wisely: Plan for sunrise or sunset for the best lighting and comfortable temperatures.
• Dress for the Desert: Lightweight, breathable fabrics work best, and bring a jacket for cooler months.
• Consider a Weekday Wedding: Weekdays have fewer visitors, making your ceremony more private.
• Bring Plenty of Water: The desert climate can be dehydrating, so keep water handy for yourself and your guests.

Book Your Local Photographer

Hi there! I’m Sammie, a Utah born and raised photographer who has a love and passion for the desert landscapes of Moab and Arches National Park. I help couples plan their dream day in Arches and focus on all the grand and intimate moments of their day. If there’s one thing you do when planning your elopement is to book a local photographer who knows the area and can help navigate the whole process! You can reach out to me through my website but in the meantime, feel free to browse through some beautiful elopements in Arches National Park below!