Top 3 Spots for a Spring Elopement in Zion National Park

Spring in Zion is just… magic. The desert blooms, the temperatures are perfect, and there’s just something about that soft spring light that makes everything feel romantic and dreamy. If you’re thinking about eloping or having a tiny wedding in Utah, Zion is hands-down one of the best places, but the trick is knowing where to have your ceremony. I’ve photographed so many couples here, and I want to share my top three favorite spring spots that give you all the beauty without all the stress.

Thanks Unsplash for the photo!!

1. Canyon Overlook

Canyon Overlook is an all-time favorite of mine—and for good reason.

Why it’s awesome in spring:

• The morning light hits the cliffs perfectly, making for gorgeous photos.
• Wildflowers bloom along the trail, adding pops of color everywhere.
• The hike is short and super manageable (about a mile round trip), so your wedding day stays chill.

Quick tips:

• Try to get there early before the crowds roll in.
• Keep your ceremony small—this spot is perfect for intimate moments.
• Wear sturdy shoes—the trail is uneven in spots, but nothing crazy.

Honestly, Canyon Overlook gives you that iconic Zion view without spending hours hiking. Perfect for an intimate, stress-free ceremony.

Thanks Unsplash for the photo!!

2. Kolob Canyons

Kolob Canyons is quieter and more low-key, which is perfect if you want privacy and wide-open spaces.

Why it’s awesome in spring:

• The red cliffs against the fresh spring greenery are unreal in photos.
• Fewer visitors than the main canyon areas, so it feels like your own private world.
• There are a bunch of viewpoints along the trails, so you have options for both ceremony and photos.

Quick tips:

• You’ll need permits, so plan ahead with your photographer.
• Sunset photos here are incredible—the golden hour in spring lasts a while.
• Pack snacks or a picnic—you’re a bit off the grid here.

Kolob Canyons is perfect if you want dramatic scenery without bumping elbows with tourists.

Credit goes to Zion National Park Service Website

3. Pa’rus Trail

If you want something super easy but still feels like classic Zion, Pa’rus Trail is a solid choice.

Why it’s awesome in spring:

• Paved and gentle, which is great if you have guests or pets.
• You get riverside views, red cliffs, and desert greenery all in one spot.
• Sunrise and golden hour photos are easy to capture without a big hike.

Quick tips:

• Early mornings are best to avoid walkers, bikers, and other visitors.
• Perfect for small elopements—or even just a few family members.
• You can have a mix of adventure and convenience—still epic, but low-stress.

Pa’rus Trail is my go-to when couples want their day to feel relaxed and accessible without sacrificing that “wow” factor.

Credit goes to National Park Service for the photo.

Spring Planning Tips

Spring is popular in Zion, so a little planning goes a long way:

• Permits: Most trailheads and ceremony spots need permits, so grab those early.
• Timing: Early mornings or late afternoons = best light, fewer people.
• Outfits: Layer up! Spring mornings and evenings are chilly, midday is warmer.

If you want help planning your Zion elopement, I’ve got your back—from permits to timeline planning—so you can focus on each other, not the logistics.

Book your Zion elopement photographer and let’s plan a day that’s beautiful, intimate, and totally stress-free.