Eloping in a slot canyon can make for an unforgettable wedding day. If you want to tie the knot during an epic adventure, then this may be the perfect way for you to say “I do!” 

As an adventure elopement photographer, I have a few suggestions to help you make this plan go off without a hitch. Here are some tips on how to elope in a slot canyon. 

Choose a Slot Canyon for Your Elopement

There are so many slot canyons that can make beautiful backdrops where you can say your vows! There are some unforgettable destinations to consider if you’re thinking of a slot canyon elopement. Here are a few of my personal favorites:

Wirepass Canyon, Grand Staircase-Escalante, Utah: These slot canyons are some of the most beautiful you’ll come across — which makes them perfect for eloping in a slot canyon. Wirepass Canyon and Buckskin Gulch feature some of the tallest canyons in the region! 

(Peek-a-Boo) Red Rock Canyon in Kanab, Utah: This is one of the most popular public slot canyons in the area — and for good reason. With its red sandstone walls that rival that of the popular Antelope Canyon, it will make a stunning backdrop for your slot canyon elopement photos! 

The Narrows, Zion National Park, Utah: Widely known for its towering walls and river hikes, this is a popular slot canyon! Due to the high waters and large crowds, I personally don’t recommend eloping at the Narrows as much as some of the off-beaten-path slot canyons for your Zion National Park elopement. 

Can you get married at Antelope Canyon, Arizona? 

With its gorgeous light beams and red, wave-like walls, this is the most famous slot canyon in the world! If you’ve always dreamt of eloping at Antelope Canyon, I regret to inform you that this slot canyon hasn’t allowed private tours in years and also doesn’t allow private photoshoots at all. 

The good news is that there are a number of similar nearby slot canyons on the Navajo Nation which offer a similar feel! You might consider Waterholes Canyon, Secret Canyon, and Canyon X for your slot canyon elopement instead. 

While some of the most famous slot canyons are located in Arizona and Utah, they can be found anywhere. One of the tan-colored slot canyons shown here is actually located in Southern California!  

Make Sure the Slot Canyon is Accessible 

If you’re planning to elope in a slot canyon, it’s best to consider the level of difficulty required to reach the canyon. Some slot canyons are easy to access via an easy walk, while others require you to climb up and down a ladder or preinstalled rope. Some even require technical climbing skills. 

Make sure the slot canyon you want to elope at is accessible on your desired wedding date. You should find out if tours or permits are required during this time. It’s also important to take the weather into account. Rainy weather can make for flood conditions that may make some locations difficult to access. It’s ideal to plan your slot canyon elopement outside of the rainy season and have a backup plan during the dry season as well. 

Be sure to research the slot canyon you’re interested in eloping at ahead of time. You’ll also want to talk to your slot canyon elopement photographer before planning your special day to make sure your plans are doable. 

Obtain Any Necessary Permits and a Marriage License

When eloping in a slot canyon, it’s important to obtain any necessary permits. If you’re planning to elope at a national park slot canyon, you’ll generally be required to obtain a special use permit for weddings. View the park’s website or contact the park’s visitor center to gain a better understanding of the application process, fees, and regulations. If the slot canyon is on private land (e.g. the Navajo Nation), be sure to obtain any special use permits from the landowner. 

Make sure to apply for your special use permit in the required amount of time. Also, take note of any wedding or event restrictions or conditions. Some slot canyon locations may not allow for wedding ceremonies, but you still might be able to take photos in the canyon. Others might not allow for onsite photography, so it’s important to read all the regulations beforehand. 

It’s also important to apply for a marriage license for your slot canyon elopement. Do some research to find out where you’ll need to apply for your marriage license and what regulations there are regarding the timing, etc. 

Hire a Slot Canyon Elopement Photographer 

It’s best to choose an experienced adventure elopement photographer. Ideally, you’ll want to choose one who has experience with slot canyons, since the lighting varies greatly from other locations. Choosing the right time of day will make for the best light conditions. Figuring this out ahead of time will ensure your photographer is able to capture breathtaking elopement photos.

Reach out to me if you want to make your slot canyon elopement dreams a reality! 

Prepare for the Terrain

Wearing comfortable footwear is a must for hiking and navigating the slot canyon. Since most trails are sandy and consist of uneven terrain, I highly recommend closed-toe shoes with some grip. You can pack extra footwear for your elopement photos — but keep in mind that it’s best to pack light since the narrow passages can make it difficult to carry large items.

Be prepared for less-than-desirable weather conditions. Always have a backup wedding location in mind in case of rain and flash flooding, which often occurs in slot canyons.

If you’re planning to elope in a slot canyon, keep temperature in mind. The canyon is generally significantly lower than the outdoor weather. While this can be refreshing in hot outdoor temperatures, it can be chilly during cooler weather. Packing an extra layer may be more comfortable. 

Choose the Perfect Ceremony Spot

Before you exchange vows, it’s ideal to scout the slot canyon for the perfect ceremony spot. It should be wide enough to accommodate you, your partner, the officiant, and any essential guests. As a slot canyon elopement photographer, I always help my clients choose the right location. I know a lot of special spots within slot canyons that are gorgeous and intimate, while still being roomy enough to hold your ceremony. 

Plan for Travel and Accommodations

Be sure to book nearby accommodations for you and your guests. If you want a more immersive, adventurous experience, you might consider camping.

Make sure you have a reliable vehicle for off-road travel to easily get to and from your slot canyon elopement ceremony. Hiring a driver or tour company to bring you to the slot canyon can be an easier way to travel through the sand without any worries. Arrange to arrive at the canyon early to allow for ample hiking and setup time. 

Keep Safety in Mind

Slot canyons are located in the desert, where the sun can be life-threatening. When eloping in a slot canyon, it’s important to pack plenty of water, salty snacks, and sunscreen. Preparing well and in advance for the climate can help you avoid any emergencies, but it’s best to know the nearest emergency contact locations. Keep in mind that a lot of slot canyon areas don’t have adequate cell phone service. I always recommend bringing along a small first aid kit as well. 

Including Personal Touches

Most slot canyons don’t allow for any sort of decor or setup. Since the slot canyons themselves provide a stunning backdrop for your elopement photos, personal touches aren’t really necessary! That being said, make sure that you follow any regulations and avoid harming the natural environment if you do want to bring something to add a personal touch to your slot canyon elopement ceremony. 

Enjoy Your Special Day 

At the end of the day, it’s important to actually enjoy your special day! Embrace the moment with your new spouse, and take in your surroundings as you allow your adventurous spirit to run wild. The right elopement photographer will capture memories of the two of you embarking on a new adventure as you begin the next chapter of your lives together! 

Ready to Book With Me? 

Are you ready to book me as your slot canyon elopement photographer? I couldn’t be more stoked about potentially taking part in your special day! I love helping couples capture memories of their adventure elopement that they’ll get to cherish for a lifetime. Whether you’re interested in booking with me or you have more questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out!