Welcome to Moab, a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Nestled in the heart of Utah’s red rock country, this small town packs a big punch when it comes to adventure. With its stunning landscapes, world-class national parks, and endless opportunities for exploration, Moab has become a must-visit destination for those seeking to experience the raw beauty of the American Southwest.

Planning a trip to Moab? Three days in this outdoor playground gives visitors a chance to see the highlights and uncover some hidden gems. From the iconic Delicate Arch in Arches National Park to the breathtaking views at Island in the Sky in Canyonlands, Moab offers an unforgettable journey through nature’s masterpieces. This guide will help you make the most of your time, whether you’re hiking to Mesa Arch, marveling at Balanced Rock, or taking in the panoramic vistas at Grand View Point Overlook. Get ready to embark on an adventure that will leave you dreaming up your next trip to this remarkable corner of Utah.

The activities surrounding these three days are centered around sunrise, mid-day and then sunset. You will need to be sure that you’re adjusting the plan as needed for meals, relaxation, and shopping. At the end, we’ll tell you our favorite shops and more hidden gems, but the outdoors of Moab is why you’re visiting right?! So we wanted to be sure you don’t miss these 9 must-see places.

The reality is that Moab is such a vast landscape with a huge variety of places to see and things to do. So the disclosure here is if you prefer a morning of activities and then relaxing the rest of the day, you have the option to take any chunk of each daily itinerary and explore just that section, saving the rest for another trip. But if you’re anything like us, then buckle in and get ready for a jam-packed 3 days in Moab itinerary!

Planning Your 3-Day Moab Itinerary

Best Time to Visit

The ideal seasons to experience Moab’s outdoor wonders are spring (March to early May) and fall (September to October). During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the trails beckon adventure seekers. However, these periods also see the highest visitor numbers.

For those who don’t mind the heat, summer can be an excellent time to visit. The long days and higher temperatures tend to scare off some crowds, allowing for a more intimate experience with nature. Early risers and twilight adventurers can still enjoy outdoor activities during the summer months.

Winter in Moab offers a unique perspective on the desert landscape. With average highs of about 44 degrees in December and January, it suits some hikers and mountain bikers just fine. However, nights can be quite cold, dipping into single digits. Winter also provides the most solitude for those seeking a peaceful escape.

For those looking to avoid crowds while still enjoying mild weather, February and November can be sweet spots. These months offer the chance to see rock towers, canyons, and arches adorned with a sparkling coat of snow, creating a magical desert winter wonderland.

Getting There

Moab’s remote location adds to its charm, but getting there requires some planning. Fortunately, several airlines make the journey accessible:

1. United Airlines: Connects through Denver to Moab (CNY)

2. Delta Airlines: Connects through Salt Lake City

3. American Airlines: Flies into Grand Junction (GJT), Colorado

For those preferring a more convenient option, flying directly into Moab (CNY) through Denver or Salt Lake City is now possible. The Moab Canyonlands Airport (CNY) is small, with just one gate, making for a quick and easy arrival experience.

Alternatively, Grand Junction, Colorado (GJT) serves as an excellent gateway to Moab. The airport is easy to navigate, and the two-hour drive to Moab is scenic and enjoyable. Salt Lake City International Airport is another option, though it’s a longer four-hour drive to Moab.

What to Pack

Packing for Moab requires careful consideration of the desert environment. Here’s a list of essentials:

• Layered clothing: Weather can change rapidly, so bring moisture-wicking base layers, mid-layers, and outer layers for protection against various condiions.
• Hiking boots: Waterproof, over-ankle boots are ideal for keeping feet dry and avoiding blisters
• Sun protection: Pack a sun hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen.
• Hydration gear: Bring a hydration pack or reusable water bottles with at least 2 liters capacity. Water sources can be limited or non-existent depending on the location
• Daypack: A 30-liter pack with chest and waist straps is recommended for carrying essentials.
• Hiking Poles: Optional but useful for variable terrain and downhill hiking.
• First-aid kit: Include personal medications, blister care, and other essentials.

Remember to pack appropriate clothing for the season you’re visiting. In winter, bring warm layers and gloves, while in the summer, focus on lightweight, breathable clothing that offers sun protection.

Day 1: Arches National Park Highlights

The first day of the Moab adventure begins with an early start to explore the wonders of Arches National Park. This iconic park is home to over 2,000 natural stone arches and countless other remarkable rock formations that will leave visitors in awe.

A very important note: During peak season (April 1st – October 31st), Arches National Park has a permitted entry system. This can be avoided by driving in very early or very late. Be sure that you’re aware of this when making your travel plans.

Sunrise at Delicate Arch

To kick off the day, adventurers should head to the famous Delicate Arch for a breathtaking sunrise experience. This 46-foot-high and 32-foot-wide free-standing arch is not only the largest in the park but has also become a globally recognized symbol of Utah’s natural beauty.

The hike to Delicate Arch is a 2.9-mile round trip with 480 feet of elevation gain. Starting before dawn has several advantages:

1. Cooler temperatures and no risk of sun exposure
2. Fewer crowds, allowing for a more peaceful experience
3. Easier parking at the Wolfe Ranch lot

Hikers should be prepared with headlamps and warm layers, as the trail can be challenging to navigate in the dark. The path crosses sandstone rock faces, and hikers should follow the cairns (rock piles) set up by rangers to stay on track.

Upon reaching the arch, visitors can witness the stunning spectacle of the sun rising over the desert landscape, casting a warm glow on the iconic formation. After sunrise, there’s time to explore the area and even capture photos under the arch when the crowds have thinned.

Check out the All Trails link here for Delicate Arch!

Double Arch

After the spectacular sunrise at Delicate Arch, a visit to Double Arch in the Windows Section of the park is a must. This impressive formation consists of two arches sharing the same foundation for their outer legs, creating a unique and awe-inspiring sight.

Double Arch boasts some impressive statistics:

• It’s the tallest arch in the park at 112 feet (34m)
• It’s the second-longest arch, spanning 144 feet (44m)

A gently sloping, barrier-free trail leads to the base of the arches, making it accessible for most visitors. The Windows Section, where Double Arch is located, is considered by many to be the heart of Arches National Park, with a high concentration of arches in just over two square miles.

Visitors can marvel at the unique formation of Double Arch, created by downward water erosion rather than side-to-side erosion like many other arches in the park. The surrounding area also offers views of other notable features such as North Window and Turret Arch, providing a fitting end to a day filled with natural wonders.

Parking fills up very quickly here as well, but we’ve never had a problem waiting 5 or 10 minutes for a spot to open up.

Check out the Link for the Double Arch Trail here!

Park Avenue Trail

After enjoying the beauty of the windows section, visitors can head to the Park Avenue Trail, one of the first major attractions upon entering the park. This one-mile trail offers a perfect introduction to the park’s unique geology and stunning rock formations.

Key features of the Park Avenue Trail include:

1. An observation deck for those who prefer not to hike
2. A steep staircase leading to the valley floor
3. Views of massive sandstone towers, including the Courthouse Towers
4. The Tower of Babel and The Organ rock formations

The trail starts with a sandy path and transitions to a rocky base, requiring hikers to follow cairns. While relatively easy, the exposed nature of the trail means visitors should be prepared for heat and bring plenty of water.

Learn more about hiking Park Avenue Here!

Mary Jane Canyon Hike

After an morning exploring a vast mix of stops through Arches National Park, it’s time to head out to this enchanting location.

The hike is also known as Professor Creek. It is 7.6 miles in total and an out-and-back trail. It is just under a 40-minute drive from Moab, but you drive along the Colorado River for most of it and experience stunning view after stunning view. There is a portion of driving on a road at the end, but any regular vehicle is suitable to make the drive.

As a forewarning, we do not recommend this hike if it’s cold out. But on a warm or hot day, this trail is pure heaven. Even though this hike offers little shade, you walk over and through a creek the entire time before ending at a swimming hole at the base of a waterfall.

Trail highlights:

• Water the entire hike: A great way to cool off on a hot day
• Ends at a waterfall: A nook with a swimming hole between sandstone walls
• Mostly flat: at only 600 feet of elevation gain over the entire hike, you get to relax and enjoy the trail without feeling like you’re summiting a mountain.
• Dog Friendly: Unlike the National Parks, you can bring the pup along for an absolute blast!

The trail features lots of water and the occasional slick area. Hikers should be prepared with:

• Water shoes for good hiking like Chacos
• Sun protection (sunscreen, hat, and appropriate clothing)
• Snacks to stay fueled across teh average of three hours to complete the hike.

Check out the All Trails Link here!

Enjoy a relaxing Sunset on the La Sal Mountain Loop Scenic Drive

After a wonderful morning exploring arches and spending the day hiking through the water, you don’t want to miss the incredible sunset!

Begin your journey on Highway 128, affectionately known as River Road, heading towards Castle Valley. As you turn right onto La Sal Loop Rd., you’ll ascend into the stunning Manti-La Sal National Forest. This 60-mile scenic loop takes you on a mesmerizing ride, culminating at Ken’s Lake.

The west-facing vistas along this route offer prime spots to witness Moab’s most spectacular sunsets. Unlike many rugged backroads in the area, this scenic drive is perfect for regular cars. However, larger vehicles like RVs and trailers might struggle with some tight turns. Before setting off on this 2-3 hour excursion, ensure your vehicle is fueled up or fully charged.

Get ready for an intimate encounter with nature, where every turn reveals a new, awe-inspiring landscape. This drive is the perfect way to bring your first night in Moab to a close.

Click here to check the road information before heading out!

Day 2: Off-Roading and Canyon Adventures

The second day of the Moab adventure offers a thrilling mix of off-road excitement and breathtaking hikes. Visitors can experience the rugged terrain and stunning landscapes that make Moab a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

Hell’s Revenge 4×4 Trail

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the Hell’s Revenge 4×4 Trail provides an unforgettable off-road experience. This 6.5-mile trail is rated a 6 by the Red-Rock Four-Wheelers, making it suitable only for experienced drivers. Thankfully, Moab has plenty of guide services like Moab Off-Road ATV Tours who will guide you through the adventure!

Key features of the Hell’s Revenge Trail include:

1. Steep fins and slickrock domes
2. Challenging obstacles like Hell’s Gate and Tip-Over Challenge
3. Stunning views of the surrounding landscape

The trail begins just past the Sand Flats Recreation Area Entrance Station and is marked with signs and symbols painted on the rock surface. Drivers should follow the yellow chevron symbols and stay on designated roads to protect the environment.

Safety tips for the Hell’s Revenge Trail:

• Maximum speed limit is 15 mph
• Use caution when crossing the Slickrock Bike Trail
• Avoid large depressions in the rock known as potholes, except for the marked “Mickey’s Hot Tub”
• Use spotters for extremely steep descents

Learn more about visiting Sand Flats Recreation Area!

Corona Arch Hike

After the morning’s off-road adventure, hikers can explore the impressive Corona Arch. This 3-mile round-trip hike offers a chance to see one of the largest and most spectacular arches near Moab.

Trail highlights:

• Corona Arch: A 140-foot wide by 105-foot high sandstone span
• Bowtie Arch: A unique pothole arch visible along the trail
• Pinto Arch: An optional detour offering views of the Colorado River
• Dog Friendly: Another location where it’s perfect to bring the pup along!

The trail features varied terrain, including a short section of mild scrambling and safety chains. Hikers should be prepared with:

• Plenty of water
• Sun protection (sunscreen, hat, and appropriate clothing)
• Sturdy hiking boots

Check out the All Trails link here for more information!

Sunset at Dead Horse Point

To cap off an exciting day, visitors can head to Dead Horse Point State Park for a breathtaking sunset experience. This state park offers stunning views that rival those of nearby national parks.

Why Dead Horse Point is special:

• Panoramic views of the Colorado River and surrounding canyons
• Less crowded than Arches National Park for sunset viewing
• Easy access to viewpoints from the parking lot
• Another dog friendly location!

Visitors can choose to watch the sunset from the main overlook or explore the Rim Trail for various vantage points. The west side of the Rim Trail offers gorgeous overlooks, while the eastern side provides views of the La Sal Mountains.

As the day comes to a close, the changing colors of the desert landscape and the silhouette of the snow-capped La Sal Mountains (snow cap pending time of the year!) create a magical atmosphere, perfectly encapsulating the beauty of Moab’s diverse terrain.

Day 3: Canyonlands National Park Exploration

The final day of the Moab adventure takes visitors to the awe-inspiring Canyonlands National Park. This vast and rugged landscape offers dramatic canyons, towering mesas, and unique geological formations that will leave nature enthusiasts in awe.

Mesa Arch at Sunrise

To start the day off right, adventurers should head to Mesa Arch for a breathtaking sunrise experience. This iconic landmark frames the distant canyons and mesas, creating a stunning natural spectacle. The best time to visit is at sunrise when the warm light illuminates the sandstone, creating a magical scene.

The Mesa Arch trail is an easy 0.6-mile (1 km) loop with up to 88 feet of elevation gain. It takes about 30 minutes to complete, but visitors should arrive at least 75-90 minutes before sunrise to secure a good spot. The trail is uneven and rocky, so proper footwear is essential.

Tips for photographing Mesa Arch:

1. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the entire arch
2. Set your camera to manual mode with a high f-stop to create a sunburst effect
3. Enable HDR mode on smartphones for better results

Learn more about the Mesa Arch Trail.

Upheaval Dome

Next, visitors can explore the mysterious Upheaval Dome, a unique geological feature that has puzzled scientists for decades. This three-mile-wide crater showcases dramatically deformed rock layers, with a central dome surrounded by a downward-warping syncline.

Two main theories explain the formation of Upheaval Dome:

1. Salt dome theory: A thick layer of salt beneath the surface flowed upward, deforming the overlying rock layers.
2. Meteorite impact theory: A meteorite collision about 60 million years ago created an unstable crater that partially collapsed and then rebounded.

Recent research supports the meteorite hypothesis, but the mystery remains unsolved, making Upheaval Dome a fascinating subject for geology enthusiasts.

Learn more about visiting Upheaval Dome here.

Shafer Trail Road on the way back to town

To cap off the Canyonlands experience, visitors should head to the Shafer Trail Road. This road offers panoramic views of the park’s vast canyons and an amazing experience as you wind down Shafer Trail, a historic road that descends 1,500 feet down sandstone cliff walls.

The Shafer Trail is easily accessible (but 4×4 is required) and is a knock-your-socks-off combination of views and experience around every turn. As a much needed bonus and among the many stops you’re sure to make on the way down, be sure to stop at Thelma and Louis Point.

The 19-mile Shafer Canyon Road offers an exciting off-road experience. However, it’s important to note:

• High-clearance 4WD vehicles are strongly recommended
• Check weather and road conditions before attempting the drive
• Obey the 15 mph speed limit and stay on the designated trail

As visitors take in the breathtaking views from the Shafer Trail Road, they’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the park’s incredible natural beauty and geological wonders.

Be sure to know road conditions for Shafer Trail Road before heading out.

Float the Colorado River

At this point, you’ve watched the sunrise through multiple arches, marveled in awe as it set over the mountains in the distance, off-roaded through slick rock trails and canyon corridors, and hiked to stunning locations in between. There is still one more activity that is a common thrill for many visitors to the area, and that’s floating down the Colorado River!

Mild to Wild Rafting and Jeep Tours is one of many companies in the area that can provide you with a drop-off and pickup service and the raft you need for this relaxing experience.

The Top 3 reasons why Floating the Colorado River is a must:

1. The scenery is unreal, and just like vista views can only be experienced from the top, the same is true for the bottom looking up.
2. The river does all of the work for you. It’s the perfect blend of outdoor activity with relaxation built in.
3. With the right guide company, you’ll learn so much information about the facts of the surrounding nature and how important the Colorado River is to Moab’s existence.

Moab’s Hidden Treasures

If you have extra time to spare during the longer summer hours, or maybe this three-day itinerary is just a kick-off to a week-long trip in Moab, here is a continued list of must-consider activities and stops.

While Moab’s national parks steal the spotlight, the area harbors lesser-known attractions that offer unique glimpses into the region’s prehistoric past. These hidden gems provide visitors with extraordinary experiences that bring ancient history to life.

Dinosaur Tracks

Moab’s landscape is a treasure trove of dinosaur tracks, offering a tangible connection to the Jurassic period. The Dinosaur Tracks Trail, an easy hike above the Colorado River, leads to an open-air museum featuring a tilted boulder face with preserved footprints. The largest tracks belong to the Allosaurus, a fierce predator that once roamed this area 150 million years ago.

Several accessible sites near Moab allow visitors to step back in time:

1. Poison Spider Dinosaur Tracksite: Located along Potash Road, this site features a short trail with informative plaques and nearby petroglyphs.
2. Bull Canyon Overlook Dinosaur Tracksite: Situated near the La Sal mountains, this location offers breathtaking views along with well-preserved tracks.
3. Mill Canyon Dinosaur Tracksite: Home to some of North America’s first discovered dinosaur tracks, this site showcases a variety of prints around an ancient watering hole.

These sites not only fascinate dinosaur enthusiasts but also provide a humbling perspective on Earth’s history.

Potash Road Petroglyphs

Utah Scenic Byway 279, also known as Potash Road, is home to an impressive collection of ancient rock art. The petroglyphs and pictographs along this route date back to 6,000 B.C., offering a glimpse into the lives of early inhabitants.

Key features of the Potash Road petroglyphs include:

• Archai period carvings (at least 3,000 years old) depicting strange humanoid figures with animal features
• Fremont culture contributions (450-1300 AD) showing bighorn sheep and hunting scenes
• Ute community artwork created post-European contact, including horse riders and hunting tactics

The highway’s construction inadvertently preserved these artworks by removing the talus slope, making them harder to reach for potential vandals. However, visitors are reminded that adding marks to these ancient panels is illegal and destructive to cultural heritage.

Moab Giants Dinosaur Park

For a more interactive dinosaur experience, Moab Giants Dinosaur Park and Tracks Museum brings prehistoric creatures to life. This unique attraction combines education and entertainment, making it perfect for visitors of all ages.

Highlights of Moab Giants include:

1. Dinosaur Trail: A walk featuring over 100 life-size dinosaur replicas set against Moab’s stunning backdrop
2. 5-D Virtual Aquarium: An immersive experience introducing visitors to ancient marine life
3. Dig It Out and Paleo Camp: Hands-on activities simulating paleontological work
4. Museum displays: Showcasing original tracks and fossilized remains

The park’s location amidst Jurassic rock layers adds authenticity to the experience, allowing visitors to imagine these giants roaming the very landscape they’re exploring. With its blend of scientific accuracy and interactive elements, Moab Giants offers an engaging way to learn about the area’s prehistoric past.

Outdoor Activities Beyond Hiking

Mountain Biking

Moab is renowned as one of the best mountain biking destinations in Utah, offering a diverse range of trails for riders of all skill levels. The area’s unique landscape, characterized by red sandstone formations and slickrock terrain, provides an otherworldly backdrop for cycling adventures.

Advanced riders can test their mettle on trails like Captain Ahab, a technical singletrack built by and for experienced mountain bikers. The Klondike Bluff network, with over 50 miles of trails, caters to a wide range of abilities and offers opportunities for longer, more technical rides.

For those seeking a true adventure, the Mag 7 trail system provides a challenging experience. Riders are advised to start early, as the trail often takes longer than expected and offers little shade along the route.

Rock Climbing

Moab’s diverse geological formations make it a world-class destination for rock climbing enthusiasts. The area boasts a variety of climbing styles, from traditional crack climbing to sport routes and even bouldering too!

Wall Street, located just outside Moab, is an ideal spot for climbers of all abilities. It features mostly single-pitch routes with grades ranging from 5.5 to 5.11, offering a mix of traditional and sport climbs easily accessible from the road.

For those looking to hone their crack climbing skills, the Ice Cream Parlor in Kane Creek provides some of the best introductory crack climbs in the region. More experienced climbers often venture to Indian Creek, about an hour’s drive from Moab, known for its challenging and sustained crack climbs with grades from 5.9 to 5.14.

Meanwhile, Castle Valley, just a half-hour east of Moab, boasts majestic towers rivaling those of Devil’s Tower, including the famous Castleton Tower and Fisher Towers.

Explore the Shops on Main Street

Part of the town of many small towns is the myriad of local and unique shops that line the downtown streets and Moab is no different. Whether it be a book to read while relaxing in the midst of the desert, souvenirs to remember the trip, or gifts to share with loved ones, here are our personal 3 favorite stops right off the main strip:

• Back of Beyond Books – A great stop with lots of popular titles and a pulse on the local community. For the bibliophiles out there, they also have plenty of rare and historic books for sale
• Moab Garage Co. – We love their cute jewelry and branded merchandise. but this is also one of our favorite spots for coffee and lunch.
• Grand County Library – You may be asking, a library, really? But seriously, yes! The local library is not only an amazing resource for locals and travelers alike, but they have a resident cat named Cosmo who lives in the library. If you’re lucky, you might catch a chance to tell him hello.

Conclusion: Memories to Last a Lifetime

Moab’s captivating beauty and wealth of outdoor activities make it an ideal destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. From hiking in iconic national parks to exploring hidden gems like ancient rock art and dinosaur tracks, this small Utah town has something to offer for everyone. The diverse landscape provides opportunities for thrilling experiences such as off-roading, mountain biking, rock climbing, and rafting, ensuring visitors can fully immerse themselves in the stunning red rock scenery.

A three-day trip to Moab allows travelers to scratch the surface of what this remarkable area has to offer. Whether you’re marveling at the sunrise over Delicate Arch, taking in the panoramic views at Dead Horse Point, or savoring local cuisine after a day of exploration, Moab leaves a lasting impression. This desert paradise invites visitors to connect with nature, challenge themselves, and create unforgettable memories amidst some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the American Southwest.

Your 3 Days in Moab Itinerary Guides

Hey there! We’re Traci and Bill. We travel all across the southwest and up through the west coast exploring town after town while capturing love stories with our elopement business Adventure and Vow.

An awesome perk on top of this awesome perk of a job is that we learn everything there is to know about the places we work in so that we’re able to best serve our eloping couples. With the wealth of knowledge we have generated from years of exploring the US, we wanted to put it together to share with others who also share the same love of travel!

FAQs

Is a three-day trip to Moab sufficient to enjoy its attractions?

Yes, three days in Moab provide ample time to explore both Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, participate in a few adventurous activities, and even take a day trip to further explore the Colorado Plateau.

What is the recommended duration for a trip to Moab to fully experience it?

For those seeking a more leisurely vacation with extensive time for outdoor activities, a week or more in Moab would be ideal. The area offers a wealth of stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, making it a prime vacation spot in Utah.

What are some recommended activities for a day trip in Moab?

A day in Moab can be eventful with activities such as rafting on the Colorado River, joining a sunset Hummer safari, engaging in half-day canyoneering, exploring Arches National Park, ziplining in Moab, hiking to Fisher Towers, driving to the overlook at Dead Horse Point, or renting a Jeep to venture into remote areas.

How much time is needed to drive through Arches National Park?

Driving through Arches National Park can take a few hours to a full day. The park’s 36-mile round-trip route offers numerous stops for photo opportunities and panoramic views, allowing visitors to appreciate the park’s stunning natural formations from the comfort of their vehicle.

Tess + Ciaran’s Elopement Day in Bishop, CA

Bill and I vividly remember taking Tess + Ciaran’s elopement inquiry call. There was a connection immediately between all of us from our mutual loves of climbing, the outdoors and Bishop. They met in a climbing gym and many of their favorite memories together involved climbing or backpacking trips. These two already had a strong vision for their elopement day – they wanted to go on a hike, have their families meet them at the trailhead in celebration and a dinner the next day. They knew they wanted to elope in Bishop after spending a lot of time there together while dating and living in LA. They would come here to climb and boulder together every chance they got. Equally so, they were so excited to bring some of their friends and family out to Bishop for this celebration to share with all of them a place they cherish.

Throughout the year of planning with Tess and Ciaran we got to see them a couple of times in person – once at their engagement session on the Oregon Coast and once at the Love on Earth Workshop where they modeled as a climbing “elopement” couple in Alabama Hills. It had been such a joy following along their awesome adventures together on social media, catching up here and there over planning, hearing about their move to Portland, and getting their first home together. We were very excited to spend their elopement day with them and capture this day within their story as a couple.

The elopement day started under the faint stars as we walked in the slightly chilled morning on a board walk to one of the local hot springs. They had decided to start their elopement day by relaxing in a hot spring, having coffee + breakfast burritos. Of course, some cuddles were involved too. It was the perfect way to start the day to watch the alpine glow wake up the mountains and then the sunlight the steam coming from the hot springs, bringing warmth into the day. Luckily, we had this portion of the springs all to ourselves so it was quiet and gave them room to not rush, enjoy and be themselves. You could see the excitement for the day ahead settle in as they spent the morning holding each other close.

After getting ready together and by the side of some of their loved ones, we set out into the mountains to hike to their ceremony location. Tess and Ciraran, have a favorite trail in the area, but we set out for a new to them trail based on distance and overall experience for the day. We brought Juno, their pup, along for the adventure so she could witness mom + dad getting married! We started our hike into the forest, stopping at an overlook of the first look for them to change into their wedding attire so they could share a first look together. They each changed behind some pines and then Tess walked out onto the boulder to tap Ciaran on the shoulder. He turned around and Tess as she showed off her beautiful dress.

We continued down the trail passing streams in the meadow along the way. We passed two other hikers who stopped for a chat, as we were talking, Ciaran recognized the gentleman. It was Doug Robinson, known as the “Father of Clean Climbing” in Yosemite. They were just as stoked to meet them as they were to take a photo of them in their wedding clothes on the trail. It was a fun interaction to share on their elopement day. Otherwise, though, we had the trail all to ourselves for the day. We made our way through snow in the higher elevation, stopping at a third lake for them to sit and enjoy a picnic. Tess was extremely excited to have a little cocktail in the vintage bride and groom coupe glasses they had found while thrifting. They shared a cheers and enjoyed sandwhiches and a mini charcuterie board set on a rock we found near by. It was lovely, to take our time making our way to the ceremony destination and soak in the views along the way.

We had just another short distance of hiking before the views would change drastically and we would be at the ceremony site. As we hiked along the lakes were changing too. We thought it was fun that they shared their first look at a totally melted-out lake, the picnic at a mostly melted-out lake, and then the ceremony was at a mostly frozen lake. We arrived at the ceremony spot. A beautiful private little nook, perfectly nestled to hold their ceremony. They stood by the water and held hands, Juno laid down to watch from just a short distance and Bill began officiating.

Their ceremony was almost completely written by them and they started it off by paying homage to the natives of the land, Sierra Miwok and Owens Valley Paiute, and their loved ones who are no longer with us. Outside of their private vows shared between the two of them and the words Bill was set to read, each of them read a poem to each other. Ciaran read, State Bird by Ada Limon, and Tess read, Love Poem with Apologies for my Appearance by Ada Limon. Once the words were complete, they excitedly, exchanged rings and a passionate kiss before holding each other and blissfully celebrating facing the mountains. After their own moment to take it in with each other, they were embraced by a tearful Bill and given kisses by a very excited Juno. Their ceremony, was their time, it was emotional, beautiful and very intentional to how they wanted to bring themselves together in marriage.

After their ceremony, we took some time enjoying the mountains and taking some portraits before setting back out into the mountains for the hike out. Along the way, we stopped for a celebratory drink and admired the sunset colors on the mountain walls around us.

We reached the parking lot, where Tess + Ciaran’s parents and siblings were waiting to celebrate with them in a champagne toast and for their mother’s to sign the marriage paperwork as witnesses.

The following day Tess + Ciaran hosted their elopement dinner reception with around 40 of their dearest loved ones where they were staying, the East Side Guest House and Bivy. This was the perfect location for this! Tess and Ciaran had invited us to their dinner as guests. We walked into a dreamy backlit glowy light over the lawn where they had the dinner tables set up, vintage glasses on a shelf for beverages which you could find in the vintage old bathub being used as an ice chest. A delicious dinner was served from the local Asian Fusion food truck and Tess and Ciaran thanked everyone for coming out. Siblings and parents came up to the mic to give emotional speeches admiring each of them as individuals, but also as a couple. Stories were shared from their years together, when their relationship first started and how their loved ones have seen them each grow throughout their relationship together. There was so much, joy, admiration and love surrounding these two. As the night turned to dusk Tess and Ciaran casually shared a first dance together before everyone joined them in dancing the night away!

I remember standing at the reception waiting to snag a sneaky family photo, admiring these two. Tess’s dad joined me and said what I was thinking, “these two are something special.” There is a special light, comfort and deep love you can feel being around the two of them. Their connection and bond is obvious. You could see it just as well in their connects with their loved ones they had brough along to share this experience with. It has truly been an honor to be able to photograph their elopement, to be welcomed into experiencing this special occasion alongside them.

In their planning questioniare, they mentioned wanting the day and gallery to feel warm, effortless, carefree, light and joyous. I think it is safe to say that was very easily achieved from how they planned the day and their ability to be present with each other and the day. We wish these two a whole lifetime of effortless joy in their marriage, warmth in their hearts and of course, many more epic adventures together in the mountains!!!

View more elopements from this area:

You planned the most perfect day for you two to get married. You documented a part of your love story on an incredibly special day for you both. Your days dating leading up to this moment, after this you will look back on this day as your foundation. These images do not deserve to live on your phone or in a folder on your desktop somewhere. Printing your images brings them to life. Having these images printed on the walls of your home will serve as a reminder of who you are, who you two were in that era of your life and why you are here in your life together. This images living in your home should surround you with happiness, peace, love and adventure.

Downloading your Wedding Images

This isn’t back in the day when we kept film scans locked away in a controlled storage space. Digital files are filed digitally and sadly sometimes technology can fail us. These images are heirlooms of your wedding day, so let’s chat about how to protect these digital files.

The first thing you need to do is download all the images. Yes, you can favorite the ones you like the most and download those separately, but you should also download all of them. You never know when you will want to go back and see all the images you had. When you download all be sure you select high res. It’s not bad to have web-size as those are perfect for sharing on social media, but web-size images will not print in high quality. So for protecting your images, download all in high-res.

How to store your wedding images?

You want be sure you save your images in a couple of different places after having them downloaded. This means not only on your desktop. The hard drives on our computers often fail without warning. We recommend storing your images on a cloud based system like: Google Drive, Dropbox and/or iCloud. Then as well, backing it up onto an external drive. Be sure to power up the hard drive once a year to keep it running smoothly and be mindful of updates in the world of technology. You don’t want 15 years to go by and no longer be able to see your wedding images because the ports are outdated or that particular drive is no longer supported on future software.

Sharing your wedding images

When sharing your images on social media please tag @adventureandvow. We recommend and ask our couples not to use filters when you post on social, but by all means you can. Filters change the appearance of an image that we edited specific to our style. You can share your images directly with your loved ones by downloading and emailing them to them – just be careful that you are sending them at full size. You can also send them a guest link to your gallery and they can view, download and order prints on their own. Feel free to share this blog with them as well if that helps! If there are specific images in your gallery you don’t want your loved ones to see, you can hide specific images so only you and I would be able to see them, but no one else.

Ordering Prints/Products

While you can download your images and print them where ever you’d like, I highly recommend ordering directly through us via email or through your gallery. General public print locations often use poor quality paper and do not color match the images. Another benefit of ordering through us or your gallery means you get guaranteed customer service if needed. Here are all the print options we offer through the gallery:

• Matted Framed Prints
• Metal Prints
• Glass box for loose prints (also offer a wooden and linen box)
• Calendars
• Cards
• Ornaments
• Print Packs
• Float Framed prints
• Pano Prints
• Albums (You can design your own album, or you can order an album through us, see below for pros, cons and what the different options are)

To purchase any products/prints, when you are in your gallery you want to hit the shop option in the top right. From there you can select what you would like to order and go from there.

Throughout the ordering process the gallery does a great job of telling you about the product, what your options are and how to select images. Keep in mind some sizes will crop images, this is where it might be helpful to order directly through us. Also keep in mind the orientation of the image you are selecting for a print/product.

When you’re ordering prints whether through the gallery or not, you want to measure the space on the wall you plan to order the print for to make sure you are ordering the right size. Determine frame size, then print size. Anything you order through the gallery will be professional framed. If you are framing on your own, make sure you are not putting a print directly against glass as that can cause damage to the print over time. Double check the image name you are printing before printing to make sure it is the exact one – there may be variations in edits from your sneak peeks and your full gallery + you may have similar images in a gallery with small differences in framing, expression, etc.

My recommended paper for printing is Luster or a Semi-Gloss.

When you order through the gallery, we have a 3 day waiting period before it goes to print, so if you have questions or anything you want us to review before it goes through please email us as soon as you place your order.

You will receive a print discount for the first few days your gallery is live and at your one year anniversary.

Albums

As a kid or even an adult, have you looked at your parents or grandparents wedding album? Have you looked up at their printed wedding photos on the walls of their home or other family members homes? I remember vividly seeing my aunts wedding photos up on the wall at my grandma’s house. She looked like the most stunning bride, the big smile and the beautiful ballgown. She was so beautiful and happy. Pictures have the ability to tell you so much more about a person’s personally, their spirit, their passion and history of their life.

Imagine flipping through your grand parents wedding album and not seeing just two people standing side by side smiling and photos the exact same with those they love.

Imagine instead flipping through your grandparents wedding album and getting a glimpse into who they were at the age they got married, getting to see them doing what they love to do together during that time in their life, exuding happiness, love and their true existence. Imagine flipping through their wedding album and being able to read it like a story of two people in love, living their life to the fullest.

Now, you are the grand parent. Imagine getting to share that story with your loved ones – they would probably think you are pretty bada** for an old person and open up more, allowing for a deeper connection.

When we are capturing your elopement day, we are photographing purposefully in a style that is documenting the story of your day. This allows you to look back through an album that you can flip through for years and be able to share it with someone else. This allows you to fully share the story of your elopement day from start to end.

Albums through the Gallery

1. Design your own album and order through the gallery.

It is really easy to order an album through the gallery. You can see below what it looks like to design your own. Size wise you can choose between 8×8, 10×10 and 12×12. There are different cover options as well. Design is made easy because for each page you select from well crafted page options and drop in the images you want to use. The downfall of this is that the designs can be limited.

A 20 paged 10×10 linen album through the gallery is $1100 to give you an idea of the price ranges when designing your own.

Albums we design for you

2. Select your favorites and let us design an album for you.

This is also easy because all you do is go into your gallery and favorite all the images you would LOVE to have in your album. You do this by hitting the heart on the image. Then email us that you would like to order the album. These are the things we need to know when you email:

• Type of album
• Color of cover
• Current address

Then we design the album for you and email it for your approval. We can make changes over a call or email as needed. Once the final design is approved by you both, we place the order and then it gets delivered to your door within a few weeks! The thing is, WE LOVE designing albums. Traci used to design albums for the PGA golfers at the end of a big win, all the presidents after their time serving in office for the PGA and she has been designing wedding/elopement albums for 4 years! The bonus here is we can get as creative as we want.

Here are the album offerings if we are designing for you:

• Fine Art Handcrafted Lay flat Leather album coming in – distressed tan, white or a dark brown espresso.
• Signature Flushmount – this album comes in a natural linen, oatmeal, old grey, noir, aspen or harvest

Additional album choices are:

• 10×10 or 12×12
• Number of pages: 30, 40, 50 or 60
• Writing on the cover (like your names, date, coordinates, etc)

Sample prices:

• 10×10 40 paged linen album with names on the cover is $1100
• 12×12 60 paged hand crafted leather album without anything on the cover is $1850

These are custom crafted albums, so prices may vary and we can figure out the best size based on what you’re envisioning. The best thing to do is select your favorites, email your ideal size/pages/etc and then we will give you a quote and we go from there or you can email us your budget and we can tell you what will fit that.

We get asked a lot if you can do an album as a gift without the other person knowing. Yes, simply be sure you are emailing us directly about the album without your partner cc’d in the email – or you can even text us!

FAQ

• If we did not photograph your elopement/wedding can we design and order an album for you?? YES! As long as you give us access to your high resolution files we can work with you in crafting your album.

• How do you handle prints with care? Our hands have oils in them and often dirt even if you can’t see it. Whenever you are handling prints or album pages be sure you are doing so on a clean surface with freshly clean hands. You can wear gloves to be even safer!!

• When do I need to order prints by? You can order prints whenever you want!! Some couples order prints within one week to utilize the discount, some couples wait months and years. We will always be here to help you when you are ready to order your prints. We love jumping on zoom calls, regular calls or communicating through email to help couples figure out what and how to print.

• What’s the best way to store my photos? Store your album laying flat. Keep it in the box to protect it even more so. We highly recommend not keeping it in any high traffic areas unless you’re sure it won’t catch an accidental coffee spill. When it comes to prints in a frame, be mindful of the wall you are putting a print on. If the spot on your wall receives a lot of sunlight, it could fade the print overtime.

• I have no idea what to print, how do I decide? We recommend looking at the wall space you want to put prints on and using a wall safe adhesive and template to play around with sizes and spacing to see how you want to create the space on the wall.

Your Photographer for Artist Point, Mt Baker

Hi there! We are Traci and Bill, a husband and wife photo video team. We mainly capture Adventure Elopements and small weddings here at Adventure and Vow. However, we do live at the base of the mountain, about as close as you can live to the Artist Point area. We are thrilled to call this little slice of the North Cascades our home.

We want to share this beauty with everyone that we can. Within this blog post, you will find all the services and photography packages we offer for the Artist Point area and all the information you may need to have a great visit to the Artist Point area

. We love this area as it is not only filled with beauty, but also great hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, star gazing, and more outdoor activities. We look forward to capturing some of your story among the mountains!

Learn more about us!

Where is Artist Point Washington?

Not to be confused with the Artist Point in Yosemite National Park, Artist Point is a scenic viewpoint in Washington State with 360-degree views of mountain peaks including Mt Baker and Mt Shuksan. It is in the North Cascade mountain range in the Mount Baker National Forest.

Artist Point is located at: 48.84620, -121.69219

What is the difference between Huntoon Point and Artist Point?

When you think Artist Point you may think of the very Iconic photos showcasing Mount Shuksan with the reflective tarn in the foreground. Yes, you can access this area via parking at Artist Point, but actually that is Huntoon Point. This is accessible via short hike from Artist Point.

Hike to access Huntoon Point: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/huntoon-point-via-artist-ridge-trail

Below is a photo of us visiting Huntoon Point with our cat + dog:

How to get to Artist Point?

The Artist Point parking lot is located about three hours North of Seattle, WA. From Seattle, you would take the 1-5 North to the 542 East. This takes you through the Bellingham area, however, you can also go through Deming. If you choose to drive this way you would take the 1-5 North to hwy 9 then joining the 542 East.

To get to Artist Point from from Bellingham, WA it is about a 1 and half hour drive. You can get to Artist Point by driving all the way to the end of Mount Baker Highway, HWY 542 (Eastbound). Artist Point is about 7 miles from the main Mt Baker ski area.

You can drive to Artist Point in any type of vehicle. The road is paved, but the road is steep and curvy. Please know, chains would be required for your tires from November through April.

You can choose to take in the views from the parking lot or hike around to popular view points! The hikes from the parking lot range from 1.4 miles to much longer taking you all the way up the summit of Mt Baker!

Where to stay when visiting Artist Point and Mt Baker?

Since the closest town to Artist Point is 45 minutes away a lot of people visiting simply do a day trip and then go back home or to their home base stay during travels. However, the area has a lot of camping options as you make your way up the mountain or by the Nooksack River.

There are not really hotels in this area unless you travel back towards Bellingham, WA. If you want to stay close to the area/mountain you will likely want to book an Airbnb or VRBO in Glacier or Maple Falls, WA. Here are a couple of our favorites in the area: Cabin in Maple Falls and Cedar Cabin in Deming/Glacier area.

We actually rent out our own home in the area! You can stay in our Cozy Little Cabin when we are away on for work travels.

Where to eat near Artist Point?

The closest restaurants to Artist Point are in the Glacier/Deming area about 45 minutes down from the mountain. The only local restaurants are:

• Heather Meadows Cafe – located near the top of mountain, limited hours
• Chair 9 – most well-known in the area, pizza + beer
• Graham’s Bar – limited hours, sit and dine in Glacier
• North Fork Brewery – located in Maple Falls, beer, pizza, salads and soups
• Rifugio’s – Italian on your way back towards Bellingham or Sedro-Wooley
• Joe’s Cafe – this is a coffee shop to dine in or go through the drive thru in Maple Falls

If you can wait to eat until you get closer towards bigger towns you will find more options!

Our favorite places to dine in the Bellingham area are: Black Sheep, The Black Cat and the Rock and Rye Oyster house.

When to visit Artist Point?

Artist Point is only accessible via driving around mid-summer to mid-fall. Otherwise, you can still access it by hiking in or snowshoeing when the road is not fully open. When planning your session or visit, be sure to check road conditions and avalanche conditions.

To us, August and the first two weeks of September is the best in this area for views, temperatures, possible wild flowers or fall foliage.

If you want to visit the area when the road is not open all the way and are not interested in snow-shoeing to Artist Point these are the areas we recommend visiting:

• Heather Meadows
• Mt Baker Ski area
• Picture Lake
• Bagley Lakes

We also really love Winter in this area! Not only is it great for skiing and snow shoeing it is so beautiful during the winter to see all the snow on the 360 peaks.

Is it better to photograph Artist Point at Sunrise or Sunset?

When visiting Artist Point at sunrise you will get alpine glow on Mount Baker and the sun will rise over Mount Shuksan.

When visiting Artist Point at sunset you will get alpine glow on Mount Shuksan and the sun will set behind Mt Baker.

To answer this question it depends on our photography preferences. Personally, we enjoy photographing at the Artist Point area at sunrise because we love back light glowy images, but also because it is way less busy at sunrise.

Below on the left is a photo of Huntoon Point at sunrise and on the right at sunset, so you can decide which is best for yourself!

Why Have a Photography Session at Artist Point?

Having a photography session at Artist Point, Washington offers several compelling reasons. First, the location provides stunning panoramic views of Mt. Baker and Mt. Shuksan, two iconic peaks in the Pacific Northwest, making for breathtaking backdrops in photos. The area is also known for its vibrant wildflowers in the summer, adding a splash of color and beauty to photographs.

Additionally, the changing seasons bring unique photo opportunities, from vibrant greenery in the spring and summer to snowy landscapes in the winter. It also is a great opportunity to make your session into an adventure with numerous beautiful trails, alpine lakes, and some of the best that Mother Nature has to offer in the state. The natural beauty of Artist Point lends itself perfectly to creating unforgettable photographs and unforgettable memories.

Photography Packages for Artist Point

Artist Point Elopement Photography

We specialize in adventure elopement weddings and we are based as close as you can live to the Artist Point area! We are experts in the Artist Point and Mt Baker area when it comes to planning an elopement! We offer photo, video, assistance planning, and officiating within our elopement packages.

For the Artist Point area since we live very close we do offer a 2-hour package for elopements that are $2800 that is available in June and November through February. This is an exclusive package we only offer for the Artist Point area, it is great for Winter elopements up on the mountains! Otherwise, we offer all of our typical WA Elopement packages in the area year-round.

Learn all you need to know about eloping here in our full guide on how to get married in the Mt Baker area.

Artist Point Proposal Photography Packages

We offer capturing proposals in the entire state of Washington, but if you ask us there isn’t much better place to propose to the love of your life than right here in our backyard at Artist Point! We offer proposal packages here for $1000 this includes the following:

• Assistance in planning, picking the best time and exact spot. Including any information you need or want about the area as well.
• Capturing the proposal.
• Capturing 30-45 minutes of portraits.
• Same-day sneak peeks texted to your phone
• Full gallery within 1 week including printing rights.

“You would be doing yourself a disservice to hire anyone but Traci. I went into the process with zero knowledge of the location and photographers in general, but Traci could not have been more helpful. The engagement went perfectly even with a small hiccup. So thankful this moment was captured for us!” – Christopher

Artist Point Engagement Sessions + Maternity Sessions

Since the Artist Point area is so accessible with incredible views it truly makes it an incredible place to take portraits for an engagement session or maternity session. You can easily have different views in the background of your images or stay in one area for a shorter session. For mama’s-to-be, it makes for a great spot to take in the beauty without making you work hard. We offer 1 hour sessions at the Artist Point area for $1000 and 2 hour sessions for $2000. Sessions include assistance planning and galleries with downloading/printing rights to your edited images.

Adventure Sessions with Us

Working with Adventure and Vow was a 10 out of 10, 5 star experience – Monica + Sam

FAQ about Artist Point, Washington

Is Artist Point dog friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome on the trails at and around Artist Point. This is another great benefit of exploring this area versus the North Cascades National Park if you are traveling with a pup!

What is there to do around Artist Point?

Directly surrounding Artist Point you can hike, snow shoe, ski, camp, star gaze and off road.

If you are open to driving some you can visit Bellingham which is a cute downtown on the sound. There are lots of breweries, activities to do in the summer, hiking, boating, and more.

Or you can go more North and visit Abbotsford, Canada, which is closer than Bellingham. There are restaurants, more hiking, and things to do in this area.

Some folks also combine visiting the Artist Point area with North Cascades National Park, which is a 2.5 hour drive.

Are there bears at Artist Point?

Yes, there are bears in the Artist Point area. It is unlikely to see a bear at Artist Point specifically because of hour much traffic it sees. However, on the surrounding trails it may not be uncommon to see one. The area mostly has black bears, but Grizzlies can also be found in the larger region. Bear hunting is popular in the surrounding area, bear hunting season is August 1st to November 1st.

Are their grocery stores near Artist Point?

There are several gas stations on your way up to Artist Point in Maple Falls and Glacier area. The last gas station is 24 miles from Artist Point, one way, so be sure you have plenty of gas to get there and back. Some of the gas stations have more than your usual gas station.

As for a grocery store there is a small market in Maple Falls, called Cross Roads Market, that does have beer, wine, chips, sweets, some fresh produce and other items.

What should you bring with you for a trip to Artist Point?

When visiting the Artist Point area you will need to bring with you:

• Hiking shoes
• Water
• Snack
• Sunscreen
• Bug spray
• A map (we recommend having Google maps downloaded and all the trails you plan to hike via Gaia or All Trails)

Do you need parking pass for Artist Point?

Yes, you do need a parking pass to park and visit the Artist Point area. You can purchase your pass on the drive up on the side of the road at a kiosk near the ski area or you can purchase it online. The parking pass you will need is the Northwest Forest Pass.

Will you have cell service at Artist Point?

Possibly! I have AT+T and my husband has Verizon. We both have cell range at Artist Point, however, we do not have service on most of the drive.

Book your Artist Point Photographer

The top five Airbnb’s at Joshua Tree, California

Places to stay at Joshua Tree for your Elopement – by Traci Edwards

Hey, hey! I am super excited to put this blog post together for all of you couples eloping in Joshua Tree, visiting for your engagement session or just going there to explore! I have previously blogged about How to Elope in Joshua Tree, but I want to tell you about some super cool and some super practical places for you to stay! After putting together the Where to Stay in Sedona for Your Elopement blog post and constantly referring back to it for couples I thought to myself, I must do this for Joshua Tree, after all in my opinion some of the cutest Airbnb’s are right in this sparce desert!

So let’s do a small recap first, Joshua Tree National Park is wildly known as an epic place to tie the knot from true elopements in the park to traditional weddings in Palm Springs with couple’s portraits at the park afterwards. The park is super vast and you can for sure find your own nook without anyone around. If you are doing a couples session or elopement here and looking for something out of the ordinary, you could come during Milky Way season which gives you the chance for stunning star photos together, or you could even rock climb together! One of the biggest things to figure out when planning to go to Joshua Tree is, where are you staying?? There are several options: camp in the park, camp outside the park, book a hotel in 29 palms or book an Airbnb. Let’s explore those options deeper and dive into my top five Airbnb’s for you to stay at when in Joshua Tree!!

Camping in Joshua Tree – Everything You Need to Know

October through May camp sites usually fill up and some camp sites close during the Summer. Camping in the park is an epic experience, everything is right there!! Keep in mind there is essentially no cell service at the campgrounds and you will need to bring in your own water, so be prepared. If you are camping in or out of the park for an extended period of time, the Coyote Corner, just outside of the park, will be your best friend for a good shower!There is also no photography allowed in the campsites, so if you are camping prior to your wedding and want getting ready photos you will need to do them on location. As always, for questions about the park or camping at the park, call to speak to a ranger or visit their website.

Campsites that are first come first serve (sept-may): Belle, Hidden Valley, Ryan and White Tank

Campsites that require a reservation (sept-may): Black Rock, Cottonwood, Indian Cove and Jumbo Rocks

Group campsites for 10-60 People: Indian Cove, Cotton Wood and Sheep Pass

To make a reservation you can visit Recreation.gov, campsites are $15-$20 in the park. I would recommend booking your camp site at least two months in advance, these campsites are a hot commodity and go fast! If you are going to first come first serve your best bet is a morning on a weekday to snag a spot! It isn’t uncommon to see people circling around early in the morning, trying to find a spot that will be opening up. You can also back country hike/camp in Joshua Tree, but you must pull the proper permits through a ranger of the park.

If you want to camp and want photos getting ready at the campsite you can camp outside of the park. This is also a good back up plan if you can not find or reserve camping in the park. Please keep in mind that if you choose dispersed camping that you must follow Leave No Trace Principals, you are responsible for your own water and there are often fire bans. For a full list of your camping options outside of the park you can visit Joshua Tree’s website. For more options you can also visit HipCamp.

The Top 5 Airbnb’s to Stay at in Joshua Tree, California

So if camping is not your thing or you want those epic in home photos of you two getting ready for your big day, an Airbnb may be the way to go! It is also a great way to get out of the desert if you plan to spend long days in the park and want to come home to relax. Joshua Tree has some very stylish Airbnb’s so I hope they inspire you for your stay! Please note that if you plan to hold any sort of event related to your wedding day you can search on Airbnb by “event friendly” places and always make sure you message the host before booking to get permission to have a photographer come and take photos if that is something you wish to do at your Airbnb. It was super hard to narrow this down to my top 5 options so if these places are booked or are not your style, I highly encourage you to have fun surfing the web exploring what else is out there!

Casa Luna – This Airbnb has three bedrooms, a living room, a back yard, a kitchen and small dining area. It is located not far from the parks entrance and is super close to town, which means it is super close to the best pizza ever: Pie for the People! You may have seen this Airbnb already from my session with Jax and Octavio in Joshua Tree. This is where we all stayed, got ready, made an amazing breakfast the following morning and did archery in the back yard! You can check out more photos of this rental on Instagram.

Book Casa Luna for your elopement

Cielito Lindo Retreat – A place for you and your guests! This retreat stays booked 2-3 months in advance so you want to get on it to reserve your spot! This has all the amenities you could ever want from a deck, a boulder garden, a hot tub, an amazing kitchen, a dining room and not to mention a design that is perfect for getting ready photos or a small reception. You can check out more photos on their Instagram.

Book Cielito Lindo retreat

Mojave Desert Cabin – Maybe it is just you two and you are looking for something smaller and more cozy? This cabin will fit your needs perfectly! it even has a claw-foot bathtub for you to relax and unwind in. You are bound to feel refreshed after a day in the park coming home to relax here and cuddle up together. The kitchen is perfect for making breakfast together in the morning or finding a spot to write your vows. You can check out their Instagram for more photos.

‘Desert Wild’ Joshua Tree with Pool and Hot Tub – If it is you two and one other couple you for sure want to check out this place! It has some stunning unique designs, a space meant for enjoying yourself, a fire place, hot tub and amazing outdoor areas for enjoying the desert. This place is a dream for getting ready spots or maybe just photos of you two relaxing after your wedding in the park. You may actually never want to leave this place! Follow their instagram here.

Book mojave desert cabin

Book ‘desert wild’ joshua tree

Beavertail Artistic Loft – If you are looking for something super fun you may want to check out this colorful stay with hammocks, yoga mattes, and a hot tub for you to enjoy the outdoors. You are bound to have a romantic night here while listening to music on the vinyl and enjoying the full kitchen. This space only allows four people on property and two cars max so please keep that in mind if you are booking it for your stay for you elopement day! Check their Instagram to see more.

Book beavertail artistic loft

Looking for more places to stay in Joshua Tree?

Check out Joshua Tree Acres for plenty of Airstream rental options near the park!

If you are looking for a unique stay like a yurt, bell tents or outdoor cottages you can search through what Glamping Hub has to offer.

You can look further out into the town of 29 Palms or Yucca Valley for Airbnbs, Hotels and more. I recommend Pioneer Motel in Yucca Valley!

I hope you enjoyed this complete guide of where to stay in Joshua Tree! If you are considering eloping in Joshua Tree I would love to help you in your planning process and capture your love story!

Smith Rock State Park Elopement – State Park Elopement Locations

Adventure Elopement Photographer – Traci Edwards

It is well known that eloping gives you the opportunity to get married ANYWHERE! Typically, the first place my couples look for their elopement location (outside of the Sedona and Page region) is National Parks! Did you know you can also elope on BLM land or at State Parks?! There are hundreds of stunning State Parks to consider for your elopement. Some positives are that they are typically cheaper to get married at than National Parks and also offer the chance of having less crowds around! Do not get me wrong, I LOVE National Parks and will always support eloping in them, but let’s broaden our horizons and see what Mother Earth has to offer outside of them!

I met up with David, Amanda and their pup, Bailey, in Smith Rock State Park a few weeks ago for this sweet session. Smith Rock is one of those places that is profoundly beautiful and will touch you in some way. Nestled in the high desert with a lush creek running around the jetting rock you will see the three sisters, Mt Bachelor and Mt Hood if you hike up Misery Ridge. You may also recognize it, by the ever famous climb, Monkey Face. It is a rock climbers gold mine and people visit it every year from all over the world. David and Amanda travel and explore new places all the time, but this was their first time here! They had been saving the experience for our adventure session here! During our session we stopped to watch slack liners in awe and chatted with some climbers near asterisk pass. I would say Amanda for sure conquered her fear of heights during this session and is one bada** lady for making her way up while wearing her stunning Reclamation Dress. I was concerned about Bailey being up so high, but that pup was the happiest, chillest dog I have ever seen. I think she was meant for some big adventures!! It was such a fun day chatting about life on the road full time, the lifestyle in a van versus a RV, life in Bend, moving from the South to the West and other aspects of our lives. It was so nice to capture these moments for Amanda and David before he had to head off for a few weeks of travel for work. Sometimes life is all about the quiet moments together or the moments where you are laughing out loud. No matter what always enjoy your time together, and sometime or another make sure to get some of your life captured together on camera.

Smith Rock State Park has so much to offer from a couple hours of an elopement to a full day elopement! From hiking Misery Ridge, rock climbing any of the options, a little scramble up asterisk pass, playing in the river, hiking through the meadow, camping on the cliff edge watching the Eagles, exploring other near by mountains and small towns! Keep scrolling for some more epic elopement locations in State Parks in the Pacific Northwest and the Southwest <3

State Parks to Consider for your Elopement!

• Ecola State Park in Oregon – Another beauty in Oregon, but this time on the coast! I just did a ten mile hike here and only saw three other soul! Hello privacy! The park has many trails, an epic hikers camping area, views of the ocean and neat cove that may have you thinking you’re in Iceland. More information about Oregon State Parks can be found here. It is best to call a ranger and speak with for any questions you may have if you can not find it on their website.
• Harris Beach State Park in Oregon – The Oregon coast is insane. It is diverse and beautiful. I am not sure there is a bad spot to elope at off the Oregon coast. Most popular seems to be the Cannon beach area, but my friends explore your options!!! This place is insanely good.
• Silver Falls State Park in Oregon – A non-coastal or high desert option in Oregon! This place is packed with you guessed it, waterfalls!
• Cape Disappointment in Washington – Right along the coast near Oregon is Cape Disappointment, outside of Longbeach. A cute beach town accompanied by this beautiful state park! There are many trails through the thick forest and lighthouses to visit. Of course you can always just hope onto the beach for a romantic vow reading.
• Deception Pass State Park in Washington – This park is stunning, just near Anacortes, Washington! It is one of Washington’s most visited parks and for good reason! There are tons of state parks in Washington with good hiking and camping, I suggest getting a Discovery Pass if you plan to elope in Washington or one of their parks for easy and cheaper access as you travel.
• Dead Horse State Park in Utah – At first glance you may think it is the Grand Canyon, but nope this gold mine of red rock is nestled in Utah. If you would like some more information about the park’s rules for weddings and elopements click here.
• Valley of Fire in Nevada – This place literally looks like a valley of fire. Not too far from Las Vegas if you’re looking for a little fun outside of your adventurous wedding!
• Piacacho Peak State Park in Arizona – I have never seen wild flowers in the spring in Arizona as thick as at this state park! In the spring it is stunning, with great trails and views.
• Lost Dutchman State Park in Arizona – Lost Dutchman is pretty well known from cowboy movies, Arizona history and some epic hiking. Would you elope at the top of Flat Iron????
• Big Sur State Park in California – Big Sur is no late bloomer to elopement world. This place is stunning!! Its coast line is almost unreal and you have for sure seen a many of elopements here by now. One of the most romantic restuaruants I have ever eaten at is actually just a few miles away from here! Check out more information here.
• Calaveras Big Trees State Park in California – Just as you enter the Sierra Nevada is this lush state park! It is not too far from Lake Tahoe or Yosemite if you plan honey mooning or exploring further after your elopement. The park has lots of large Sequoia trees!
• Anza-Borrego Desert State Park in California – While I have not visited here myself (yet!) I hear great things about this park from others in the outdoor culture. It is somewhat in between San Diego and Joshua Tree! I hear star gazing at this park is a real treat, with great camping and back country hiking for your adventure elopement!
• Hanging Rock State Park in North Carolina – In case you did not know, I am from North Carolina, but call Arizona my home base! I hike in Hanging Rock State park every time I am home and the first intimate wedding I photographed was actually in this park. There are many trails to choose from, but the hike to the over look is epic. There are waterfalls and many neat places to stay near by. So if you’re looking for a place in the south without driving all the way into the mountains this would be it!

The fact of the matter is I could go on FOREVER about some epic elopement locations! Our planet is seriously insane with tons of diverse stunning options. My best advice is always to not go off of whats trending on Instagram to select your elopement location. It is best to select a place you are drawn to. I know it can be overwhelming with how many options are out there if there isn’t a place that speaks to you right off the bat. Take your time, do your research, brain storm together and get some help and advice from your elopement photographer (hey, hey!).

Wildly Connected Elopements for couples wanting a deep, more emotive wedding day.