You’ve pictured it, standing beneath a towering arch, surrounded by the quiet majesty of the red rock desert, ready to say “I Do.” There’s no backdrop quite like Arches National Park! However, making those dreams a reality requires a little paperwork and planning. As your elopement photographer and guide, my job is to seamlessly handle the logistics like special use permits, approved ceremony sites, and the notorious timed entry system so your day is 100% focused on adventure, not anxiety. Ready to dive into the essential details that make your Arches elopement picture-perfect and legal?
Permits may be requested up to 1 year before your requested date, It is better to apply for a special use permit sooner than later as these permits can take a little while to process. Arches Nation Park only allows ceremonies to take place in few locations in the park; Park Avenue, La Sal Mountains Viewpoint, Double Arch, The Windows, Panorama Point, Devils Garden Campground Amphitheater. Other locations may be requested on a case by case basis.
Holding a permit will not grant you exclusive use of the area and will remain open to the public so there is the possibility of by standers.
How to cut down on crowds
There are a few steps you can take to cut down on the crowds when eloping in Arches National Park. Starting with eloping on a week day vs a weekend will help cut down on foot traffic as well as planning for a sunrise elopement ( sunrise will also get you out of having to pay an entrance fee into the park)
Why I as your photographer love eloping at sunrise, Sunrise offers so many possibilities into your elopement day. Your location will be more private beating the midday crowd, giving you more privacy as well as beating the desert heat. Sunrise also provides the most stunning lighting for your ceremony and portraits.
How to apply for permit
submit a completed NPS Form 10-930s along with Pay.gov payment confirmation to the email address stated on the application.
APPLICATION FEE
The application fee for a wedding permit is $185. Please pay via Pay.gov.
This fee covers the costs associated with providing initial contact and consultation with eloping couples, initial review of a standard application, and the costs associated with issuing a standard permit, which processing fees, permit development, consultations with the couple, managerial consultations, and billing. The application fee and permit processing fees are non refundable.
The magic of Arches National Park is waiting for you, but the planning shouldn’t overshadow the joy of planning your elopement. Partnering with a photographer who is also your guide means you get an expert who walks you through Special Use Permits, timed entry strategy, and the ceremony site logistics. Click here to learn more.
