Horseshoe Bend Elopement planning

Yes, you will need a Special Use Permit to elope at Horseshoe Bend, Arizona at both the northern end Glen Canyon National Recreation Area ($300+), and the southern end on Navajo Nation Land ($100+ & usually requires you to hire a local tour guide).

This depends on which area you choose. The most recent update from the northern end is up to 25 guests. The southern end located on Navajo Nation land has allowed private 4×4 tours with up to 75 guests. There are added guide and permit fees for larger ceremonies. **Navajo land is currently CLOSED due to Covid**

No setups of any kind are allowed.

From the main entrance, a well maintained 0.6 mile ADA accessible path takes you straight down to the overlook. From there you can head around the bend in either direction, which does require a bit of hiking and/ or climbing.

There is large parking lot right off of Highway 89 with on site parking passes and restrooms ($10 per car). On holidays and very busy times of the year there is a shuttle service available if the main parking lot fills up.

Monsoon storms during the summer can create gorgeous skies and rainbow backdrops, but can be dangerous if lightning is present. Proceed with caution.

Fall and spring have the mildest weather weather for a Horseshoe Bend Elopement. However, November-February is the least busy if you are willing to brave chilled winds and even a chance of snow. Summer comes with temperatures in the 100F+ and potential monsoon storms. I honestly love it any time of year. Summer and early fall is a perfect time to watch the sun fully set and stay to star gaze as the entire park clears out. If you plan it right for a new moon, you can even catch the milky way rising to the south by hiking up to the northern edge. This is on my personal wish list!

Sunrise or Sunset give the best lighting for your elopement portraits any time of year. There are some who argue that mid-day is the best time to visit Horseshoe Bend because the river below is lit up by the sun, whereas it is shaded in both the early morning and evening. Personally- I say pleeease keep going in the midday to all those visitors- and we will stick to those gorgeous golden rays near sunset with less people! Plus, with no shade, the midday sun soaking into the sandstone can be brutal, especially in the summer months.

Always wear comfortable footwear with good gripping soles when walking around the rim. Sun protection, light loose clothing will help keep you cool in the warmer months. In the winter, a jacket or other covering will shield you from the wind. Always bring more water than you think you will need. The dryness of the desert will sneak up on you, especially if you are traveling from somewhere with more moisture in the air. During the hotter months having drinks or food with electrolytes to replenish the salt your body loses while sweating is highly recommended.