zion wedding guide
table of contents
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1.1: BEST LOCATIONS FOR COUPLES
1.2: CEREMONY LOCATIONS
1.3: SMALL CEREMONY LOCATIONS
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2.1: BEST PLACES TO STAY WITHIN 30 MINUTES OF ZION NATIONAL PARK
2.2: BEST PLACES TO STAY WITHIN 1 HOUR OF ZION NATIONAL PARK
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3.1: SPRING
3.2: SUMMER
3.3: AUTUMN
3.4: WINTER
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This section has a list of fun activities you can do in the desert!
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5.1: MY PERSONAL FAVORITES
5.2: OTHER GREAT RESTAURANTS IN THE AREA
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Interested in a Zion wedding? This is literally my full time job and I am highly specialized in the area! This section has some more information on what I offer!
section 1: locations
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT LOCATIONS:
There are some locations I don’t disclose publicly to protect them. They could easily get overrun if word got out about them. These locations are only available to clients who book with me. All my packages include an 86 page location guide that goes a lot more in depth about these locations and there are many spots in my guide I don’t even have listed here.
SECTION 1.1 - BEST LOCATIONS FOR COUPLES
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canyon overlook
An iconic Zion location! Literally some of the prettiest views in the world location right in the heart of the national park.
PERMIT: NO
DIFFICULTY: MEDIUM
PRIVACY: NOT PRIVATE
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WHITE POCKET
This spot is located a couple hours from the national park, but it is literally one of the most unique locations in the entire world.
PERMIT: NO
DIFFICULTY: HARD
PRIVACY: USUALLY SOMEWHAT PRIVATE
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SAND BENCH TRAIL
A lesser well known trail in the national park with the prettiest greenery and towering red rock cliffs.
PERMIT: NO
DIFFICULTY: MEDIUM
PRIVACY: USUALLY PRIVATE
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UNDISCLOSED LOCATION
(Available upon booking to protect the location)
One of my favorite locations of all time. An insanely beautiful hike with some of the prettiest cliffs views in the desert.
PERMIT: NO
DIFFICULTY: MEDIUM
PRIVACY: VERY PRIVATE
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OBSERVATION POINT
The pinacle of Zion views, overlooking Angel’s Landing and the entire Zion Canyon.
PERMIT: NO
DIFFICULTY: HARD
PRIVACY: SOMEWHAT PRIVATE
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UNDISCLOSED LOCATION
(Available upon booking to protect the location)
A gorgeous remote field with the prettiest sunsets on the Zion cliffs ahead.
PERMIT: NO
DIFFICULTY: EASY
PRIVACY: USUALLY PRIVATE
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UNDISCLOSED LOCATION
(Available upon booking to protect the location)
The prettiest dirt road in the world, seriously. I’ve been on a lot and nothing tops this one.
PERMIT: NO
DIFFICULTY: MEDIUM
PRIVACY: VERY PRIVATE
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grand viewpoint
One of the most beautiful fields I’ve ever seen. The views of Zion are incredible.
PERMIT: NO
DIFFICULTY: EASY
PRIVACY: SOMEWHAT PRIVATE
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VERMILLION STAIRCASE
A quiet, stunning field with a variety of greenery, flowers (during certain times of the year) and red rock.
PERMIT: NO
DIFFICULTY: EASY
PRIVACY: USUALLY PRIVATE
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Sand hollow
A stunning combination of water and red rock.
PERMIT: NO
DIFFICULTY: MEDIUM
PRIVACY: NOT PRIVATE
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RED CLIFFS CONSERVATION AREA
A large area of wilderness where you can horseback ride, hike, explore, and see beautiful flowers and red cliffs.
PERMIT: NO
DIFFICULTY: EASY
PRIVACY: SOMEWHAT PRIVATE
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sand hollow resort
A gorgeous photo spot right outside the resort. There is also a ceremony spot at this resort that is beautiful. Click here for the resort website.
PERMIT: YES
DIFFICULTY: EASY
PRIVACY: PRIVATE
SECTION 1.3 - CEREMONY LOCATIONS
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temple of sinawava
Stunning combination of red rock and greenery right next to the river.
PERMIT: YES
DIFFICULTY: MEDIUM (Dealing with the shuttle can be difficult with a group)
PRIVACY: NOT PRIVATE (You will most likely have tourists near your ceremony)
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undisclosed location
(Available upon booking to protect the location)
Beautiful remote field with views of the national park.
PERMIT: NO
DIFFICULTY: EASY
PRIVACY: ALMOST GUARENTEED PRIVACY
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sand cove
Jagged rock formations in a remote location.
PERMIT: NO
DIFFICULTY: HARD (4×4 required)
PRIVACY: VERY PRIVATE
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PETRIFIED DUNES
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SAND HOLLOW RESORT
A very well kept lawn surrounded by red rocks at a nice resort and venue.
PERMIT: YES
DIFFICULTY: EASY
PRIVACY: VERY PRIVATE
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UNDISCLOSED LOCATION
(Available upon booking to protect the location)
Sweeping views of Zion National Park on a remote cliff.
PERMIT: NO
DIFFICULTY: MEDIUM
PRIVACY: USUALLY PRIVATE
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ZION RED ROCK CHALET
Private venue with gorgeous views of the Zion Wilderness.
PERMIT: YES
DIFFICULTY: EASY
PRIVACY: PRIVATE
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harmony haven ranch
Want some variety for your desert wedding with gorgous greenery, a treehouse, and a ranch? This is the place!
PERMIT: YES
DIFFICULTY: EASY
PRIVACY: VERY PRIVATE
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autocamp zion
You and all your guests can stay in super nice airstreams with a ceremony spot on the property!
PERMIT: YES
DIFFICULTY: EASY
PRIVACY: DEPENDS (There is an option for a property buyout)
SECTION 1.2 - SMALL CEREMONY LOCATIONS
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UNDISCLOSED LOCATION
(Available upon booking to protect the location)
One of my favorite locations of all time. An insanely beautiful hike with some of the prettiest cliffs views in the desert.
PERMIT: NO
DIFFICULTY: MEDIUM
PRIVACY: VERY PRIVATE
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TIMBER CREEK OVERLOOK
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UNDISCLOSED LOCATION
(Available upon booking to protect the location)
Another stunning cliff location that almost no one knows about.
PERMIT: NO
DIFFICULTY: MEDIUM
PRIVACY: VERY PRIVATE
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TOADSTOOL HOODOOS
Really unique rock formations!
PERMIT: NO
DIFFICULTY: MEDIUM
PRIVACY: NOT PRIVATE
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PRIVATE BUTTE BY ZION HELICOPTERS
This butte is literally only accessable via helicopter so you will definitely be the only ones up there. This is a unique location offered by one of the vendors I work with, Zion Helicopter Tours.
PERMIT: NO
DIFFICULTY: EASY
PRIVACY: VERY PRIVATE
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the gorge
This location isn’t even that far from Zion! Most people have no idea we have joshua trees around here.
PERMIT: NO
DIFFICULTY: MEDIUM (the dirt road can get dicey)
PRIVACY: ALMOST CERTAINLY
section 2: best places to stay
SECTION 2.1: BEST PLACES TO STAY WITHIN 30 MINUTES OF ZION NATIONAL PARK
OPEN SKY
Open Sky is probably one of my top recommendations for the area. It’s very secluded, close to the national park, and the view of the stars are wonderful. It is super close to a lot of the ceremony spots in my location guide too!
AREA: VIRGIN
PRICE RANGE: $$
PRIVACY: VERY SECLUDED
AUTOCAMP
Autocamp has the most beautiful airstreams and is so close to the national park. There is a clubhouse, venue, and outdoor area perfect for you and your guests. You can even have your ceremony there.
AREA: VIRGIN
PRICE RANGE: $$
PRIVACY: DEPENDS
HARMONY HAVEN RANCH
Believe it or not this is only about 20 minutes away from the north and lesser known side of Zion called Kolob Canyon. You’re literally in the gorgeous mountains and can be in the national park within minutes. This is a very secluded and beautiful location.
AREA: NEW HARMONY
PRICE RANGE: $$
PRIVACY: VERY SECLUDED
ZION WHITE BISON
This resort has real white bison you can see! They also have adobes, tipi’s, and covered wagons. There is a lot to do here and a lot of sweet features!
AREA: VIRGIN
PRICE RANGE: $$-$$$
PRIVACY: NOT PRIVATE
ZION MOUNTAIN RANCH
Gorgeous property on the east side of Zion. You’re in the mountains with beautiful ranch views, horses, and cabins. I personally LOVE this place.
AREA: ORDERVILLE
PRICE RANGE: $$
PRIVACY: MOSTLY SECLUDED
SECTION 2.2: BEST PLACES TO STAY WITHIN 1 HOUR OF ZION NATIONAL PARK
zion a-frame
Zion A-Frame is one of the coolest properties of all time. It was voted the most liked Airbnb in 2021 and has picture perfect secluded views of the Zion wilderness.
AREA: HILDALE
PRICE RANGE: $$$
PRIVACY: VERY PRIVATE
ZIONS TINY OASIS
There are multiple tiny homes on this beautiful plot of land close to the national park and to a lot of the locations in my guide! It’s a beautiful area that’s very peaceful.
AREA: VIRGIN
PRICE RANGE: $$
PRIVACY: VERY SECLUDED
outpost x
Ok, this one is a little over an hour away, but it is a legit sci-fi glamping experience. There are star wars themed homes with sand cruisers, a spa, sauna, cold plunge, common area, and other really cool experiences! This is definitely the most unique stay around here.
AREA: BERYL
PRICE RANGE: $$
PRIVACY: DEPENDS
section 3: WEATHER
SECTION 3.1: SPRING
The spring is SO pleasant here, I highly recommend it! The weather is like 70-80 degrees most of April and sometimes the beginning of May. The coolest thing about the spring is the desert actually starts to get super green. This is the greenest you will ever see it here and it turns the desert into a beautiful sight to see! It’s fresh and there’s lots more water in the spring which makes our river and lake shots even cooler! I highly recommend the spring, it’s a great time to come here!
SECTION 3.2: SUMMER
If you hate the heat, than the summer is definitely the worst time to be here. But if you’re up to braving it, there are some pros! It’s nice because the days are long, the sun rises at about 6:15am and sets at around 9:30. August and sometimes late July also bring our famous desert monsoons which are STUNNING. It hardly ever rains here, but when it does, it is spectacular. Some of the best photos I’ve ever taken in my life have been during the fantastic desert monsoons. If you get the chance to witness a desert monsoon I’d consider yourself lucky! But it can impede on an elopement, especially because flash floods here during the monsoons are frequent and dangerous, so you have to keep that in mind.
However, almost every day in the summer we are around 100 degrees, and in July and August it frequently gets about 110+. Some years we had terrible heat waves and hit almost 120. You don’t want to be outside much at all during those temperatures, it feels like you walk straight into an oven!
All of that being said though, a lot of my couples actually elope here in the summer and there is usually no problem with it! It’s super fun because we can go cliff jumping, boating, swimming, and do lots of cool water activities! Just be prepared to wake up super early and stay out super late, because sunrise and sunset are the only reasonable times to elope here, so you don’t burn up or get heat exhaustion during the day. That’s why I have people go to the lake in the middle of the day so they can cool off! There’s still tons to do and the weather isn’t bad at sunrise and sunset, and the summer nights are really nice! Don’t rule out coming here just because it’s the summer!
SECTION 3.3: AUTUMN
COME ELOPE IN THE FALL! This is my top recommended season for eloping in Southern Utah, the weather couldn’t be better! Late September to mid November is such pleasant weather! It can sometimes be a little chilly in the mornings, but the days are around 70 degrees and feels so good! We don’t get fall trees here much, but there are a few places where you can see fall colors with the red rock and it’s crazy cool! You can wake up later for beautiful sunrise shots and don’t have to stay out as late for sunset shots! The weather is steady and it barely ever rains. Honestly this is the best time of the year to elope, I highly recommend it!
SECTION 3.4: WINTER
If you are thinking of eloping in the winter at all, you’re limited on locations nationwide because a lot of northern national parks close certain locations in the winter. It’s stupid cold, and there’s deep deep snow everywhere. The desert is by far the most ideal location to elope in the winter! We get snow maybe one or two days a year, and let me tell you what, if you’re lucky enough to witness snow on the red rocks you will never regret that. Snow in Zion is unlike anything else so honestly if it did snow on your wedding day I wouldn’t be disappointed! We get minimal snow here so even if it does it’s not deep at all. Maybe an inch or two. The winter can get deceivingly cold here, especially when the sun isn’t out, but a lot of the time during the middle of the day I wear short sleeves and sandals, it’s great! The winter in the desert is way nice because you generally won’t have to worry about super bad weather ruining your day!
section 4: fun activities
I tell all the couples that I work with that they should do something fun on their wedding day! Why only have the ceremony when you can explore the majestic area you’re in! I’ve had couples cliff jump, rock climb, kayak, and do lots of other fun things that they’re interested in! It also makes for some sick pictures!! Here are just some ideas to get your brain going on things you can do here!
Cliff jump on top of a waterfall (I know a cool place where you can do this!)
Have a breakfast picnic by the joshua trees
Rock climb at sunset
Rappel down a red cliff
Rent a boat
Rent an ATV and go 4 wheeling (I used to be the manager of an offroad rental shop here, I can get you the best razor they have!)
Feed llamas (yes you can actually do this here)
Have a picnic in the mountains by the pine trees (yes we have pine trees here about 45 mins away!)
Walk around main street and visit local shops
Visit Duck Creek, a little mountain town we have here with really unique restaurants and shops
Visit some waterfalls
Go on a river hike
Go offroading
Visit the Kayenta Art Village, the cutest art galleries surrounded by red rock cliffs!
Eat at any of the Springdale restaurants that are all super cute!
Have a campfire at night and eat smores!
Play card games
Visit a ghost town (we have a couple)
Go on a scenic drive
Hammock by some pine trees
Read books by a quiet river
Visit the rock shops in Springdale
Rent mountain bikes
Visit Arizona (the border is very close)
Go camping and look at the stars
Rent a telescope and look at the galaxies in the sky
Swim under the stars all alone in a desert oasis
Go snowboarding at our ski resort 1.5 hours away!
Sledding up in the pine mountains
Go snowshoeing
Offroad in the snow
Have brunch at a local crepery (one of my favs!)
Eat at a local retro burger joint
Hike with your dog
Drive on top of a mountain
Visit aspen trees about an hour away
Visit multiple desert rivers and water spots
Visit a hidden pool in Zion no one knows about that you can swim in (if there are no algae blooms)
Go on a helicopter tour over Zion and even Lake Powell! (I know the guy that owns the helicopter tour company, I can get you hooked up!)
section 5: best restaurants
SECTION 5.1: MY PERSONAL FAVORITES
I have no words for this place. It’s heavenly, beyond anything you’ve ever had, if you like Indian cuisine. They have the BEST garlic naan bread and incredible curry of all types. The atmosphere of the restaurant honestly feels like you’re in the middle of India, and the waiters are super nice! I’ve never tipped anyone so much. HIGHLY RECOMMEND.
This restaurant is literally a few minutes from the gate of Zion, and has a variety of incredible food. Their house salsa and chips are crazy good and they have a different type of food for everyone! I always leave this place feeling so satisfied.
Bit and Spur Restaurant and Saloon - Springdale
The atmosphere of this place is what makes it ones of my favorites. They sometimes have live music, and you can sit in the outdoor section with string lights and other pretty decorations. This is also right outside Zion so the views from this place are stunning.
Costa Vida - St. George & Hurricane
I eat at this place probably the most frequently of any other place! It is the BEST Mexican food. My personal favorite is getting their grilled chicken salad with beans, cilantro rice, the best and thickest tortilla, and their tomatillo sauce. It really is bomb!! This restaurant has been my favorite for a long long time since I have a soft spot for Mexican food!
Alfredo A’s - Hurricane & St. George
The ultimate adventure stop since it’s open 24/7! I’ve eaten so many breakfast burritos here at 2am and have some of the best memories here! Their breakfast burritos are literally to die for and they are so big! If you want something to fill you the whole day come here! They have carne asada fries, and so many other authentic mexican dishes.
The BEST sauces I have ever tasted!! This place is Peruvian and actually really healthy too! Dipping their chicken in their red sauce and getting their sweet potato fries and quinoa is so so good!
SECTION 5.2 - OTHER GREAT RECOMMENDATIONS
Anthera - Springdale
Switchback Grille - Springdale
MeMe’s Cafe - Springdale
Zion Pizza & Noodle - Springdale
Sakura - St. George
The Ocean - St. George
Bella Marie’s Pizzeria - St. George
Maverick Gas Stations - Everywhere (They have BOMB burritos and a mini grill restaurant inside of it)
Iceberg - St. George
Gaia’s Garden Cafe (Vegan) - St. George
work with me!
I hope after reading all this that you’re stoked to elope by Zion! The desert really is special and there are so many experiences you can create here. Photographing Zion elopements/small weddings is literally my full time job so feel free to contact me about anything! I’d love to photograph and help you plan your day, and I also have an AWESOME team of vendors I work with so I can get everything covered for you. Reach out to me on my contact form here. My Instagram is @desertscapephotoandfilm and you can message me there too!
benefits of our packages
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This guide contains ALL the info you need to know about locations in the desert and across the country. This guide will tell you which spots are good for ceremonies, which spots are private, the hiking distance and logistical details of each spot, what lighting is best for each spot, and more.
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I offer faster turnaround times than the industry average. I remember how excited I was to get my own wedding photos back and I want to deliver your photos to you as quick as possible. I send you 72 hour sneak peaks to share with family and friends right away!
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I have a vendor list complete with everything you need for your wedding. They are people I’ve personally worked with and know do a good job. I have all their contact info and website information on this list. Currently this list contains: 2 officiants, 2 hair and makeup artists, a wedding planner, live ceremony painter,live acoustic guitar player, 2 horseback riding vendors (1 company and 1 private owner), a catering and charcuterie company, wedding rental company, helicopter tour company, ATV/offroad rental company, custom cake shop, a bakery, and an Etsy vendor with aesthetic Zion wedding invites.
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I shoot on 35mm film, polaroids, super 8, and drone to give you lots of different looks and options for your wedding photos!
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I offer consultation with me throughout the whole process to give you peace of mind! Found an airbnb that you’re not sure about? Message me and I’ll tell you if it’s located in a good area. Want to know where to eat? I know all the local gems. Any question you have I’ll do my best to answer and help you with.
224+
galleries completed!
Proud to say that we’ve completed 224 galleries as of writing this and that number will just keep going up! Click Here to view our portfolio with every gallery we’ve done!
12+
years in the area!
Living just outside Zion in St. George has been a dream! I don’t want to move anywhere else and plan on staying here for as long as I can!
$25,000+
value of our combined camera gear!
We don’t mess around when it comes to gear. Between the 3 team members that make up Desertscape Photo and Film we have over $25,000 worth of gear to capture your day.
portfolio
Click the button below to see full galleries of my work!
google reviews
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Emily Reierson
“Hiring Kelsea was by far the best decision we made for our elopement in Utah. She was so much more than a photographer. She was like a wedding planner as well. She helped me iron out all the details and made sure our ceremony and photo locations were exactly what we wanted. Her and her husband were so easy and fun to work with. They left us with the best memories and photos to cherish for the rest of lives. If you need a sign to elope and hire Kelsea, consider this your sign. You won’t regret it!”
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Taylor Mottle
“Kelsea and her husband Matt @redrockcinema were so outstanding!! We eloped to Utah in October 2023 and wanted to make sure we captured every moment to share with family and friends when we returned. We did both photography and videography and they did not disappoint! The direction we received, the ease of flow throughout the day from location to location and the phenomenal results were just PERFECT!! The amount of compliments I received from our loved ones was overwhelming!
In addition to the amazing service, I want to add how special the aftermath was. Kelsea and Matt worked with me on editing the ceremony video and even accepted some extra photo requests outside the original batch.
ALSO, Kelsea sends the photos on a site that allows for the creation of coffee table books, thank you cards, wall mounts, frames ect. It was so easy to put together special gifts for our moms and guests using the flawless images Kelsea produced.
I am in AWE of how professional and creative this dynamic duo were. THANK YOU FOR MAKING OUR DAY SO UNBELIEVABLY SPECIAL! ❤️”
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Kelsey Dunneback
“Kelsea and team were so lovely to work with! They did photo and video for our Chaco Wedding- it was a unique ceremony and event that included 35 couples and they were able to effortlessly capture all the people, emotions and special moments of the day. Communicative, open to direction and professional, I would highly recommend you booking! They really were able to run with capturing the right moments in the moment and have a great eye for what will make a great photo. The end photos and video were stunning and really captured the personality of everyone there!”
