Why Elope in the Wasatch

Where to Get Married in Utah | Salt Lake Elopement Photographer

Why Should I Elope in the Wasatch Mountains?

The Wasatch mountains are a wild range that runs from the Utah-Idaho border through central Utah. Sculpted by glaciers long ago, these mountains were created to be raw and powerful with jagged peaks and deep bowls. These mountains may never rise over 12,000 feet, but still offer major elevation gain and sweeping views from their peaks.

The Wasatch offers every adventure you could dream of. Keep reading to find out how the Wasatch may be perfect for your elopement!

Where Can I Get Married in Utah’s Mountains?

The Wasatch Mountains have an incredible range of mountain peaks, canyons, lakes, waterfalls, and forests to get married at. You can choose to elope in any of these landscapes that speak the most to you.

Some of my favorites include:

Grandeur Peak
Lake Blanche
Cecret Lake
Bridal Veil Falls
Bell’s Canyon
Alta Ski Resort
Silver Lake

And so much more! I’ve been adventuring deep into the Wasatch to find hidden gems where you can say your private vows or bring family and friends along. Contact me today to talk about your dream location!

the reflection of lake blanche in blanche lake in the wasatch mountains

a couple hiking in the wasatch mountains at lake blanche

Wasatch Weather by Season

Spring:

Come Spring there is still plenty of pow to be shredded! Snow storms are still possible, but expect more bluebird days. Spring is a great time to get out on your skis or board while enjoying warmer temperatures and the sunshine. It is also great for mountaineering, climbing at lower elevations, and snow camping.

Summer:

In the Summer the mountains become green and teaming with wildlife, snow starts to melt, rivers and waterfalls rage on, alpine lakes thaw, and the wild flowers come out. There really is no better time to explore alpine lakes, see roaring waterfalls, summit mountain peaks, or climb granite and limestone walls! Temperatures are often cool in the mornings and evenings and can reach … degrees during the day. Reaching higher elevations means beating the heat and exploring more of the mountains.

Fall:

In Fall the leaves start to change to unveil an incredible world of color in the mountains. Temperatures cool down allowing for more adventuring during the day like summiting mountains and big wall climbs. Don’t be surprised if there is some snow later in the season!

Winter:

The Winter season is prime for skiing and snowboarding. If you want to have an adventurous wedding at a resort or in the backcountry this may be the season for you! Expect cold temperatures and frequent snow storms, but hey that just means more powder days in the Greatest Snow on Earth.

How to Get a Utah Marriage License

Getting your Utah marriage is a fairly easy process. The license is good for 30 days and you can get your license the same day as your elopement!

To Make Your Marriage Legal:

Both you and your partner must be present, have legal ID, and know your socials at the time of application
You need to know your full names, your dates and places of birth, your addresses, parents names, and parents places of birth for the application
You must pay fees that range from $30-50 that may be cash only
Your elopement needs an officiant to be legal
Two witnesses must sign your license

What is There to do in the Wasatch?

The real question is, what isn’t there to do? You could:

Hike to see a waterfall, an alpine leak, or summit a peak.
Climb some granite or limestone.
Go for a backpacking or camping adventure.
Swim, raft, or tube in an alpine lake or down a river (that is outside of the watershed).
Ski or snowboard on some the greatest snow on earth!
Take a helicopter ride over the Wasatch.
Say hello to the local wildlife from afar.
Hunt for wildflowers in forest, meadows, and by lakes.
Watch the alpenglow on the mountains!

mountain biking in the wasatch range of utah

snowshoeing in the moutains for a winter wedding day with a pup

Can My Pup Come Along?

YES! There are many dog friendly areas, hikes, and adventure to be had with your pup. The Wasatch does have protected watershed areas, such as Big and Little Cottonwood, that do not allow dogs. However, places like Mill Creek or the Timpanogos Wilderness are great places to enjoy the mountains with your pup!