Zion National Park Utah Elopement

Okay okay okay. Guys. I am straight up struggling for words to say about this elopement day. But let’s start at the beginning!

Huntar + Anthony reached out to me a few months ago to shoot their elopement in central Illinois. They were planning on eloping at Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Park and have me photograph their beautiful day with their closest family and friends present. However, about 1 month prior to their big day, they were running into some hiccups. They weren’t as excited as they wanted to be about their wedding day. They had always wanted to get eloped in Zion National Park, and ended up booking their honeymoon in the area. When Huntar and I were chatting on the phone 1 month before their wedding, Huntar mentioned “I just wish we could do this in Zion,” to which I replied, “Why not?”

She was stunned for a moment, and asked, “Wait, would you seriously fly out to Zion to do this?” UUUHHHH OF COURSE I WOULD! So, then we began planning her Zion National Park elopement! Zion National Park is one of my favorite national parks. It has everything; stunning overlooks, slot canyons, rivers, wildlife, and more.

We decided on Observation Point in Zion National Park because of the absolutely stunning views of Zion. This hike is, in my opinion, the best hike in Zion. As an elopement photographer, Zion is one of the best places to get eloped in the US. There are plenty of remote hikes with close to no people, and incredible views no matter what hike you choose.

Zion elopement day!

We started off their elopement day by stashing up on plenty of snacks and water before heading to the trailhead. We took the “backdoor” entrance to this trail, which is shorter and easier than the trail that starts in the park. However, we still hike 7.15 miles for this elopement day, which is my farthest elopement hike yet!

Then, after about a 2 hour hike, we made it to the top! We took a breather and took in the gorgeous views together while snacking and fueling up on water. They decided to hike in athletic clothes and change into their wedding attire at the top of the outlook, and do a first look then. Once they were changed, we set up a first look right on the edge of the canyon. As Anthony turned around to see his beautiful wife, he began to tear up (which of course I lost it here). They exchanged their vows, and even shared a first dance.

When we soaked up all the amazing views and the sun had gone behind the canyons, we made our way back to the parking area. With it almost dark out, we had to hike in the dark with headlamps on, and even got to stargaze. When the sun went down, it cooled the desert trail off significantly, so hiking back was a breeze under the crescent moon and stars.

This day was one I will simply never forget. I am so lucky I get to serve amazing couples like these two as a living.