Okay, picture this: you, your partner, and a backdrop that looks like it was stolen from an old Western film. But instead of tumbleweeds and cowboy shootouts, it’s just the two of you promising forever. That’s Castle Valley. It’s got those wild red rock mesas that light up like fire at sunset, roads that beg you to crank up your favorite playlist with the windows down, and that “middle of nowhere but in the best way” kind of energy. If you’ve ever dreamed of ditching the traditional wedding script for something a little more adventurous (and a whole lot more you), this is the place.

As a Colorado elopement photographer, I’ve realized the location is so much more than a backdrop, it shapes how the whole day feels. And Castle Valley? It turns everything into an adventure. From the moment you step into that wide-open desert, the energy shifts. It’s not just about gorgeous views (though, trust me, you’ll have plenty of those). It’s about the way the place makes you slow down, soak it all in, and feel like you’re writing your own epic story together.

Why Castle Valley Works for Elopements

Castle Valley checks all the boxes when people picture a Utah elopement. It has endless desert views, mesas that light up like they’re on fire, and that wild, untouched beauty that feels straight out of a dream. But before you throw on your hiking boots and call it a day, there are a few things worth knowing to make sure this spot is the right fit for your adventure:

• It’s BLM land: This means permits are often required for organized events like elopements. Don’t worry, every spot has its own rules and quirks, and I’ll walk you through what you need (and when to apply) so there aren’t any surprises!

• Dog Friendly: If you’re hoping to bring your dog along, you’re in luck! Moab’s BLM permit sites are all dog friendly, so your furry friend doesn’t have to miss out. But they’ll need to stay on a leash to help protect the land and its wildlife.
  
• Leave No Trace: Moab follows Leave No Trace principles, which basically means we treat the desert with the respect it deserves. Pack out everything you bring in (yes, everything), stick to designated trails to protect the fragile soil. Leave the land exactly as you found it, so it stays wild and beautiful for the next couple who wants to say their vows here. It’s all about keeping this place special, not just for us, but for the landscape itself.

• Accessibility varies: Parts of Castle Valley are easy to reach by car, but some of the best overlooks require high-clearance or even 4×4 vehicles. If you’re up for the ride, you’ll be rewarded with views that feel like the edge of the world.
  

• Season matters: Summers here are no joke. Temps can climb well into the 100s, which is why spring and fall are hands-down the best times to plan. The weather is cooler, the light is incredible, and you won’t feel like you’re melting in your wedding attire.
  
• The backdrop is unbeatable: You’ve got massive red cliffs, desert landscapes, and skies that stretch forever. It’s bold and rugged, but it also gives you plenty of quiet pockets where it feels like it’s just the two of you.

The Experience of Eloping in Castle Valley

I’ll be honest, eloping in Castle Valley feels different than anywhere else! The scale of the desert makes you slow down. The way the mesas catch the light makes your photos feel layered and cinematic. Since it’s less crowded than Arches or Canyonlands, you’re not weaving through big crowds or fighting for an overlook.

If you’re dreaming of a day that feels intentional but still has that wild edge, Castle Valley is the kind of spot that just makes sense. Picture the two of you wandering out onto a sandstone ledge, vows carrying off into the cliffs. Then cracking open some champagne as the desert settles into golden hour. It’s less about “posing” and more about being in the present moment, soaking it in, and laughing together. The photos will be incredible, of course, but what you’ll really remember is how it felt to be out there. Just the two of you, present in the moment, with the desert holding space for it all.

Activities to Add to Your Day

When I help couples dream up their elopement plans, I always encourage adding something fun to the mix! Because your day should feel like an adventure, not just a photo session. In Castle Valley, that might look like cruising up Castleton Road with the windows down. Maybe it’s hitting a short desert trail for wide-open views or staying late to stargaze under skies so clear they’ll stop you in your tracks.

You can also turn it into a whole trip; Moab is right next door, with off-roading trails, rafting on the Colorado River, and two national parks begging to be explored. Whatever you choose, these little add-ons make the photos more dynamic, sure, but more importantly, they make the day yours!

Things to Plan Ahead For

Because Castle Valley sits on BLM land, you’ll want to check whether your spot requires a special use permit. This covers everything from ceremonies to photography, and every location has slightly different rules. But I’ll help you figure out the paperwork, fees, and timeline so you don’t have to stress about logistics. Beyond permits, there are a few practical things worth knowing before you pick a spot. Some roads out here can get rough (especially after rain), so you may need a high-clearance or 4WD vehicle. This is something you’ll definitely want to plan for if you’re renting a car. Cell service is also spotty, so downloading offline maps and having a clear meeting point is a must. I’ll make sure everyone has directions so no one gets turned around.

If you’re inviting guests, comfort matters too. Shade can be hard to come by, bathrooms are often nonexistent, and seating may need to be brought in. Sometimes that means choosing a location closer to Moab. Other times it’s bringing in a few simple amenities to keep everyone happy. And of course, timing is everything in the desert. The light changes fast, and while sunrise and sunset are incredible, you’ll want to plan arrival times carefully so you’re not hiking out in the dark (unless you’re into that kind of adventure!). At the end of the day, we’ll talk through your vision for the experience so we land on a location that fits your style, your guests, and the adventure you’re after.

A Personal Note as an Elopement Photographer

As a Colorado elopement photographer, I spend most of my time in the mountains. But there’s something about Castle Valley that keeps pulling me back. The desert energy is grounding in a different way, quiet, expansive, and humbling. I’ve photographed couples here who wanted that mix of raw adventure and stillness. And every time, the result has been unforgettable. What sets Castle Valley apart from places like Arches, Canyonlands, or Dead Horse Point is the character. Arches and Canyonlands are incredible, don’t get me wrong, but they come with heavier crowds, more permit hoops, and in some spots, higher costs. Dead Horse has one of the most famous overlooks in Utah, but you’ll rarely have it to yourselves. Especially at sunrise and sunset when the tour buses roll through.

Castle Valley, on the other hand, feels more tucked away. You still need a BLM permit for ceremonies, but the process is simpler than the national parks, and there’s a lot more flexibility. Accessibility can be a trade-off, some spots are easy to reach by car. While others need high clearance or 4×4, so it’s not quite as straightforward as parking at an overlook in Arches. But that extra effort usually means more privacy, which most couples tell me is worth it. The light here can be harsh midday (hello, wide-open desert!), so I always recommend planning closer to sunrise or sunset when the rocks glow and the whole valley feels alive. Honestly, no matter the conditions, I’ll help you work with the light and make the most of it. That’s part of what I love about this job!

Ready to Plan Your Castle Valley Elopement?

If Castle Valley is calling your name, I’d love to help bring it to life. From sorting out permits to finding the best spots for sunrise or sunset, I’ll be there to guide you through every step. As your elopement photographer, my job isn’t just to take the photos, it’s to help you create an experience that feels true to you and tell your story in a way you’ll never forget. Reach out here to start planning!

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If you’re planning a Colorado elopement, check out my blogs: The 6 Best Colorado Elopement Locations, Plan Your Mountain Wedding: How to Elope in Rocky Mountain National Park, Elopement Ideas: Make Your Elopement Photos Pop With Activities.