How to Plan a Destination Wedding in Zion: A Step-by-Step Timeline for Stress-Free Southern Utah I Do’s
Planning a destination wedding in one of the most stunning landscapes on Earth—Zion National Park and Southern Utah—can be an unforgettable experience. But without the right plan, the desert magic can turn into logistical mayhem. Here’s your step-by-step guide and timeline to make planning smooth, legal, and fun—while capturing the breathtaking scenery you’re dreaming of.
12+ Months Out: Dream Big & Lock In Your Vision
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Choose Your General Location
Zion National Park? Snow Canyon? Coral Pink Sand Dunes? Southern Utah has diverse backdrops—decide what speaks to your style. -
Book Your Photographer (Hint: Early is Key)
The best Zion wedding photographers book up 12–18 months in advance—especially for spring and fall. That doesn’t mean that last minute bookings aren’t possible, but it’s always good to book your photographer early when possible. Your photographer will also help guide you through permits, timing, and location logistics (hi, that’s me 👋). -
Decide on an Elopement or Intimate Wedding
Will it be just the two of you or a 30-person ceremony? Guest count affects where you can legally hold your wedding inside Zion. If you plan on a larger group, then a wedding just outside of the park is probably your best bet. Im happy to suggest some great locations.
9–12 Months Out: Secure the Essentials
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Apply for Your Zion National Park Permit
Zion requires a Special Use Permit for any wedding inside the park. Processing can take up to 4 weeks, so plan ahead. Popular locations (like Temple of Sinawava) have group size limits. If you want to skip the permit process because of your group size or for other logistical reasons, we can discuss great locations for ceremony outside of the park. -
Book Accommodations for You + Guests
Springdale, Hurricane, and St George offer lodging options ranging from rustic glamping to luxury resorts. Book blocks early for best rates. -
Reserve Your Officiant + Key Vendors
For destination weddings, local vendors (like hair/makeup artists, florists, planners) are familiar with the unique climate and restrictions of the area.
6–9 Months Out: Details and Design
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Design Your Ceremony + Vibe
Whether it’s boho on the cliffs or classy at a private estate, now is the time to finalize your design elements. The right wedding planner can be a huge asset for this and every other part of your wedding. -
Send Save-the-Dates
Especially crucial for destination weddings. Include lodging suggestions, transportation details, and activity options. -
Plan a Sunrise or Sunset Ceremony
Lighting is everything here. Trust your photographer to help choose the best timing for golden hour views and minimal crowds.
3–6 Months Out: Logistics + Legal Stuff
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Arrange Transportation
Zion has shuttle rules and limited parking. Coordinate vans, jeeps, or plan a ceremony spot outside the main canyon if logistics get tricky. -
Finalize Guest Activities
Think Jeep tours, slot canyon hikes, or a welcome dinner under the stars. This is Southern Utah—make it an experience. -
Get Your Marriage License
You can get it in any Utah county—no waiting period and it’s valid for 30 days. Washington County (St. George) and Kane County (Kanab) are closest.
1 Month Out: Final Touches
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Confirm All Details With Vendors
Double-check timing, access points, and permits. -
Scout or Revisit Your Ceremony Site
If you’re in town early, take a walk through with your photographer or planner. Adjust ceremony angles or timing if needed. -
Pack Strategically
Include sturdy shoes for walking, layers for temperature swings, and backup beauty gear for desert wind.
The Week Of: Arrive + Soak It In
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Arrive 2–3 Days Early
Give yourself time to acclimate, explore, and connect with your vendors. Chances are, many of your guests will not be familiar with Zion. This is a great time for them to explore and be awed by its wonder! -
Host a Welcome Adventure or Casual Gathering
This is what makes destination weddings magical—cliffside toasts or campfire hangouts instead of traditional rehearsal dinners. -
Get Married + Celebrate With Epic Views
You did it! Say your vows surrounded by sandstone cliffs and glowing light. Then go chase that sunset with your photographer.
Bonus Tips From a Zion Wedding Photographer:
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Permits and Light Are Everything:
Get help early from someone who knows the seasonal quirks and rules. Zion is incredible year round, but the logistics do change depending on when you decide to have your wedding. -
Consider Weekday Ceremonies:
Zion gets packed on weekends. A Tuesday wedding = more serenity and better photos. If your don’t decide to have your wedding on a weekday, think about an extra bridal session a day or two before or after. This is a great chance to get into some amazing photo spots with fewer crowds, as well as lower stress not being on the wedding day. -
Don’t Stress the “Small Wedding” Label:
Elopements and intimate weddings allow for more personal touches, stunning locations, and way less stress. The serenity of Zion National Park makes for the perfect stress free wedding!
Ready to Start Planning Your Zion Wedding?
Whether you want a two-person adventure elopement, a cozy ceremony with your closest people, or a destination wedding with all the friends and family, I specialize in capturing destination weddings that are beautiful, personal, and totally stress-free.
Reach out here to get started.
Zion Wedding FAQs
Do I need a permit to get married in Zion National Park?
Yes, a Special Use Permit is required for weddings in Zion. Apply at least 4 weeks in advance.
Can I bring guests to my Zion elopement?
Yes! Some locations allow up to 30 people, but others have strict limits—especially inside the main canyon. There are locations outside of the park that don’t have guest limits.
What’s the best month to elope in Zion?
April–May and September–October offer the best mix of weather, light, and fewer crowds. That being said, Zion is absolutely incredible all year!
