Everything you need to begin planning a Grand canyon wedding or Elopement

Are you dreaming of a wedding as epic as your love story? Look no further than the Grand Canyon—a stunning place that’ll take your breath away and leave you feeling like you’re standing on the world’s edge (literally!). With its awe-inspiring vistas, dramatic colors, and adventurous vibe, the Grand Canyon is the ultimate spot for a wedding or elopement that’s as unique as you are. So let’s dive into how to make this unforgettable day a reality.

Why Choose the Grand Canyon for Your Wedding?

Let’s be real—there’s no place on earth like the Grand Canyon. It may be the perfect spot to say “I do” if you’re into desert vibes and jaw-dropping backdrops. The Canyon’s red, blue, and purple layers seem to stretch on forever, making it one of the most stunning natural wonders in the world. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a view that makes your heart skip a beat, the Grand Canyon offers something for every type of couple. If you love “little-people-big-world” type images, there is no place better than the Grand Canyon to capture those.

The Grand Canyon is huge!

The Grand Canyon has multiple entrances and more than one federal and tribal agency controls the land. Most of us think of Grand Canyon National Park, which includes the South Rim (main entrance) and North Rim. Grand Canyon West is a long way from the main park entrances and is on Hualapai Tribal land. This is where you can find the skywalk and helicopter rides that land inside the canyon.

Pro-Tip: The Grand Canyon is larger than the state of Rhode Island. It stretches across a vast portion of Arizona, and the different entrances are 3 to 7 hours from eachother. When choosing your location-specific details (permitting authority, lodging, food, vendors, etc…), be sure to put in the entrance and GPS coordinates for accurate timing, weather, and driving conditions.

Securing Your Grand Canyon Wedding Permit

Before you get too caught up in the excitement, there’s one thing you need to do first—secure that wedding permit! You can’t just show up and say your vows. For the purpose of this blog, we will be talking about ceremonies within the Grand Canyon National Park. Please visit the Grand Canyon West Website for information on getting married on tribal land. The National Park Service requires a Special Use Permit for any wedding or Grand Canyon elopement in the park, and you’ll need to pick a specific location for your ceremony.

Locations That Require a Permit

All wedding ceremonies in Grand Canyon National Park require a permit.  You are limited to designated overlooks for your ceremony.  But don’t worry, there are multiple pre-approved locations at both the South Rim and along the North Rim.  Each overlook has specific rules about guest capacity and access to amenities like restrooms and parking.  The timeslot is 2 hours for most locations except Shoshone Point.  This does not mean you can’t take portraits along the rim afterward- it is for your ceremony, group shots, and any group celebration you have planned. 

Permit Fees and Processing Times

Costs range from $240 for most locations to $420 for Shoshone Point.  You’ll need to submit your application at least four weeks in advance. Trust me, the earlier, the better—especially if you want one of the more sought-after spots.

How to Apply for Your Permit

It’s easy! You can apply online through the National Park Service’s website. Pay close attention to the rules about what you can have at your ceremony (spoiler: no amplified music, free-standing arches, live florals, or chairs in most spots). Once you’ve submitted, sit tight—processing can take a few weeks.

Obtaining Your Marriage License

Ready to make it official? You’ll need to snag a marriage license before the big day.  If you’re not local, Flagstaff or Williams are great options near the Grand Canyon.  You must obtain your marriage license in Arizona- so leave room in your schedule to get this done.

In-Person Marriage License Process

You and your partner will need to visit the clerk’s office together to apply. If you’re flying in, I’d recommend Flagstaff since it’s closest, or north Phoenix, where you can take a slight detour on your way north. Arizona makes it super easy—no blood tests or waiting periods are required.

Marriage License by Mail

As of 2024, Mohave County allows U.S. citizens to apply by mail.  This can be a great option to save time if you’re planning from afar.  Be sure to check with the county office before committing, as it is more work to submit (you will have to print your application and get it notarized) and after filing your marriage license (you will need to follow up for your certified copy).

Finding an Officiant for Your Ceremony

Not sure where to start? There are many northern Arizona officiants who know the ins and outs of getting married at the Grand Canyon.  Some photographers (like yours truly!) are ordained and can sign your marriage license, so you can keep things small, simple, and intimate.

The Best Locations for a Grand Canyon Wedding

Let the fun begin!  Choosing your favorite location for those epic viewpoints is both fun and nerve wracking if you aren’t there in person. But truthfully?  You really can’t go wrong.  Every overlook of the Grand Canyon will take your breath away.

Keep in mind, that while you have to use a permitted spot from the list below for your actual ceremony or vow exchange, we can adventure all around for portraits before and afterwards. So if there is an area that you absolutely love that isn’t listed, don’t worry- we CAN still go there for epic portraits on your wedding or elopement day.

South Rim Wedding Locations

The South Rim is the most accessible and popular choice, with iconic spots like Moran Point and Grandeur Point. It has more viewpoints and is close to all the lodging, making it the easiest option if you are inviting guests.

Shoshone Point (Available May 15-October 15)

  • Guests: Up to 85 people, including you, your wedding guests, and vendors.
  • Parking: Up to 5 vehicles, shuttle highly recommended
  • Access: Requires a one-mile walk up an uneven dirt pathway
  • Site Features- Covered pavilion, picnic tables, grills, and trash can
  • Restroom: The nearest vault toilet is located on-site. There is no hand washing or sanitizer available.
  • Catering, including food and alcohol *may* be authorized on a case-by-case basis.
  • Special Use Permit: $500

Pima Point

  • Guests: Up to 30 people, including you, your wedding guests, and vendors.
  • Parking: On site December 1-February 28. Hermit Road closes from March 1 tp November 30 for private vehicle use.  
  • Access: Visitors must use the shuttle bus for access. If you have guests with mobility issues, you can ask for the Scenic Road pass for permission to drive on Hermit Road. You can request the pass at the entrance station or a Visitor Center in the park.
  • Site Features: None
  • Restroom: The nearest vault toilet is 1.1 miles away.
  • Special Use Permit: $240

Grandeur Point

  • Guests: Up to 45 people, including you, your wedding guests, and vendors.
  • Parking: Parking at the Yavapai Geology Museum parking lot.  
  • Access: From the parking area, it is a quarter-mile walk on a paved pathway. You can bring Wheelchairs and strollers up to the ledge that separates the path and the actual point.
  • Site Features: None
  • Restroom: The nearest vault toilet is in the Yavapai Geology Museum parking lot.
  • Special Use Permit: $240

West Rim Worship Site

  • Guests: Up to 50 people, including you, your wedding guests, and vendors.
  • Parking: Parking at the west end of the Grand Canyon Village parking lot along the Rim trail.  
  • Access: Parking is limited at the village, but there is additional parking by the Backcountry Office. You can also use free park shuttles from other lots. The route down has stairs and rugged terrain.
  • Site Features: None
  • Restroom: The nearest vault toilet is at Bright Angel Trailhead a quarter mile to the east.
  • Special Use Permit: $240

Moran Point

  • Guests: Up to 35 people, including you, your wedding guests, and vendors.
  • Parking: Parking at the viewpoint.  
  • Access: Parking is limited. Getting down to the main overlooks requires an inclined walk down a trail.
  • Site Features: None
  • Restroom: The nearest vault toilet is at Buggeln Picnic Area 2.8 miles west.
  • Special Use Permit: $240

Lipan Point

  • Guests: Up to 35 people, including you, your wedding guests, and vendors.
  • Parking: Parking at the viewpoint is limited, so guests may need to park at the viewpoint to the west while you have a designated driver to shuttle them over.
  • Access: One of the permitted areas is viewable from the top.
  • Site Features: None
  • Restroom: The nearest vault toilet is at Desert View Restrooms 2.5 miles east.
  • Special Use Permit: $240

North Rim Wedding Locations

If you’re looking for fewer tourists and cooler temps, the North Rim might be your jam. It’s only open from May to October but offers more intense views at places like Cape Royal and Point Imperial. Bonus: the North Rim is much more private. The minus? The road has seasonal closures as soon as the snow begins.

Cape Royal Amphitheater

  • Guests: Up to 40 people, including you, your wedding guests, and vendors.
  • Parking: Parking is a large gravel area.
  • Access: The wedding site is less than a half mile down a gravel pathway.
  • Site Features: Wooden benches are on-site for your guests.
  • Restroom: The nearest vault toilet is located in the parking area.
  • Special Use Permit Fee: $240

Point Imperial

  • Guests: Up to 20 people, including you, your wedding guests, and vendors.
  • Parking: The parking lot is at the trailhead.
  • Access: There is a paved path to the ceremony site on the far right of the parking area.
  • Site Features: None.
  • Restroom: The nearest vault toilet is located in the parking area.
  • Special Use Permit Fee: $240

Planning the Perfect Elopement or Wedding Day

Your wedding day at the Grand Canyon is more than just a ceremony—it’s an adventure! I encourage you to make the most of your trip by incorporating some of the amazing activities the park offers or heading to one of the nearby towns before or after your ceremony.

Adventure Activities to Include

Why not kick off your day with a helicopter ride over the Canyon? Or go for a whitewater rafting trip down the Colorado River the day before your vows. The possibilities are endless, from horseback riding to jeep tours to hiking the iconic South Kaibab Trail.

Weather Considerations by Season

The Grand Canyon has its own microclimate, so plan carefully. Summer can be scorching, while winter might bring snow on the rim. Fall and spring are the sweet spots with cooler temps and fewer storms. Always check the weather ahead of time to avoid surprises.

Tips for Avoiding Crowds on Your Big Day

The truth? You probably won’t escape the tourists completely, but early morning ceremonies or off-season weddings can make a big difference. Plus, once you’re exchanging vows with the love of your life, you won’t notice people on the edge across from you.  Those extra onlookers will melt into the background.


Lodging and Accommodations for You and Your Guests

Whether you’re going solo or bringing a crew, you’ll need a place to stay.

Lodging Options in the Park

There are several lodging options available within the park on the South Rim and at the North Rim. 

Lodging Options Outside Park

If you prefer to stay close to the rim, but outside the park, Tusayan offers several hotel options just minutes from the park entrance. There are also vacation rentals if you prefer a more cozy vibe.

Special Glamping and Luxury Stay Options

If you’re all about those boho desert vibes, Under Canvas is a dream come true. Think cozy tents, starry nights, and stunning desert backdrops—perfect for a pre-wedding retreat or post-vow celebration. There are also several bouge resort locations in Williams where you can stay in yurts, sky-domes, or tiny homes designed around enjoying the night sky. The Grand Canyon is in a dark-sky-certified area, so taking advantage of the star viewing is a wonderful way to relax at night during your wedding trip.


Lodging Deep Inside the Canyon

Are you two full-send adventurers? If so, a true bucket-list adventure experience would be booking a night or two down at Phantom Ranch at the bottom of the canyon. But this option is not for the faint of heart. It not only books up fast, but the hike down and back is a grueling test of endurance. But if you love bold adventures, this could be an insanely cool way to celebrate your wedding.

Hiring Vendors for Your Grand Canyon Wedding

Finding the right vendors can make or break the experience on your wedding day.

Photographer, Hair and Makeup, Caterer, and Other Key Vendors

It’s super important to find vendors who understand the logistics of a Grand Canyon wedding. Whether it’s your photographer, caterer, or makeup artist, you want pros who have been there and know the park’s rules and quirks.

Most of the vendors who service the Grand Canyon will be coming in from Flagstaff or other northern Arizona towns within a couple hour drive.

What to Consider When Booking Vendors

Remember, your Special Use Permit has restrictions on things like amplified sound and decorations, so make sure your vendors are aware of what’s allowed and what isn’t. Oh, and don’t forget to ask about travel fees!


Shannon Durazo standing in the Sedona Red Rocks


Hi! I’m Shannon Durazo

and I would be thrilled to be your Sedona elopement or wedding photographer.

As an Arizona Wedding Photographer, I specialize in helping find the best location for epic wedding day portraits. I love a good after party- where you will find me in the middle of the dance floor getting-jiggy-with it.

Contact me to get Started!


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