Moab vs Zion Elopement: How to Pick the Best Spot for You

If you’re stuck on the whole Moab vs Zion elopement decision, trust me — you’re not alone. It’s one of the biggest questions I hear from couples who are dreaming about a Utah adventure elopement. Both places have unreal views, both give you that epic red rock vibe, but they’re also pretty different once you dig in. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you figure out which feels more like your day.

Here’s The Thing…

Here’s the thing a lot of people don’t realize: when you hear “Zion,” it mostly means Zion National Park itself. That’s the iconic canyon you’ve seen all over Pinterest. It’s stunning, but it’s also got more rules, and you’ll be on their schedule with shuttles and permits.

But there’s also a ton of incredible places just outside Zion that give you the same epic scenery — maybe even better — with more flexibility. Think lesser-known slot canyons, sandstone mesas, and quiet overlooks you can have all to yourselves. I actually wrote a whole post about places to elope near Zion outside the park if you want to explore those ideas more.

On the flip side, Moab is a whole area, not just one national park. You’ve got Arches, Canyonlands, Castle Valley, and miles of BLM land all around the town of Moab. That means tons of ceremony options, from official overlooks to hidden off-road spots where you can truly make the day your own.

The Vibe

Moab is a bit more wild and open. It’s got two of Utah’s big national parks — Arches and Canyonlands — plus a ton of BLM land like Castle Valley. You can easily find places where it’s just you two and the view for miles. It’s laid-back and full of spots that feel private.

Zion feels bigger and steeper. Those giant cliffs are next level, and the canyon is lush in places where the river runs. It’s more dramatic and almost otherworldly. But it’s also a bit more structured — and that’s not always a bad thing.

What the Scenery is Like

In Moab, you’ve got natural arches everywhere, huge rock formations, wide canyons, and even castle-like towers in Castle Valley. There’s so much open space. If you want to feel like you’re on your own little adventure, this is your spot. Need ideas? Check out my post on 5 Hidden Gems for an Unforgettable Moab Elopement.

Zion is all about being down in the canyon. You’re surrounded by towering red walls with the river cutting through. It’s greener than people expect for a “desert.” You can read more in my Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Zion National Park.

How Easy it is to Get Around

Moab is super flexible. You can pick hikes, overlooks, or even spots you can drive right up to. Great if you’re bringing guests who might not want to hike. There’s also tons of places outside the parks on BLM land where permits are simpler.

Zion has a shuttle system most of the year, so you’ll be parking and hopping on a bus to get to most trails or overlooks. It’s beautiful, but definitely more structured. If you’re hoping for a big wide space where no one else is, Zion’s main canyon might not be it.

The Best Times to Elope

Both spots shine in spring and fall. That’s when the weather’s comfortable and crowds aren’t at their peak.

• Moab: April-May and September-October are my favorite. Summers get crazy hot, so sunrise or sunset is key then. Winters are colder but super peaceful. Read more in my When to Elope in Moab.
• Zion: Also best in spring and fall. Summers can mean long shuttle lines and lots of people. Early winter can be quiet and beautiful. Here’s my post on The Best Time to Elope in Zion.

Permits & Rules

Whether you’re in Moab or Zion, both national parks have pretty specific rules. You’ll need a special use permit in places like Arches or Canyonlands, and the same goes for Zion. They all keep an eye on group sizes, noise levels, and don’t allow extra décor like arches or seating in most cases.

That’s where Moab is kind of awesome though — not because the parks are more relaxed (they’re actually pretty similar with rules), but because there’s so much stunning BLM land right outside the national park boundaries. Those areas usually come with way fewer hoops to jump through. So if you want a spot that feels totally yours, with fewer permit restrictions and more freedom to celebrate how you want, Moab’s surroundings give you a ton of options.

Zion has some great nearby options too, especially if you’re open to places just outside the official park. You can still get those epic red rock views without quite so many rules to navigate.

Adding Some Adventure

If you’re dreaming of extra adventure — Moab’s the place. Jeep tours, climbing, UTVs, hot air balloons, you name it. You can mix a laid-back ceremony with a day that’s totally packed with fun.

Zion is more about hiking. Think big bucket-list trails like Angel’s Landing or wading through The Narrows. Less off-roading, more epic treks.

Bringing Guests Along

Moab is easier if you’re having guests. Lots of ceremony spots are simple to get to, and it’s easy to book a cool Airbnb for a dinner after.

Zion can work, but remember the shuttles. It might not be as smooth for older guests or anyone who doesn’t want to walk much.

So… Moab or Zion?

Still torn? That’s literally what I’m here for. I love helping couples figure out what fits them best. We’ll talk about how much privacy you want, how adventurous you want to get, and build your day around that.

Reach out here and let’s start dreaming up your perfect elopement — whether it’s under the towering cliffs of Zion or out in Moab’s wide open desert.