Arizona is a dream destination for couples who want to elope, offering everything from breathtaking desert landscapes and towering saguaro cacti to dramatic red rock formations and chic urban settings. Whether you’re imagining an adventurous ceremony in the Superstition mountains, an intimate vow exchange in the Desert Botanical Garden, or a simple courthouse elopement, Arizona has something for every couple. In this guide, we’ll talk about how to elope in Arizona – from legal requirements to where to tie the knot.

Choosing the Best Place to Elope in Arizona

Choosing where you get married is a big decision! It’s where you’ll start your marriage – and with so many options, it can be hard to decide. Keep in mind that each couple is different, so the perfect location to elope for you is going to be unique to you – and as an elopement photographer, I’ll help you find that. But, here are a few ideas!

Sedona

Sedona is known for its gorgeous rock formations, and it’s one of the best elopement locations in Arizona. It’s ideal for couples who want a mix of nature and luxury, and there are countless trails and scenic overlooks to choose from. One of the most popular locations is Cathedral Rock, but there are plenty of more off the beaten path spots too.

Superstition Mountains

If you want to stay close to the city but also feel like you aren’t, the Superstition Mountains are the perfect choice! They’re just an hour east of Phoenix, and you’ll see dramatic rocky peaks, desert scenery, and cactus gardens. Lost Dutchman State Park is a popular spot for elopements!

Flagstaff

If you want to get a little further from the vast, desert landscape and go somewhere a little more green, Flagstaff is further north, and a great place to elope in Arizona! Surrounded by pine forests, volcanic craters, and scenic meadows, Flagstaff also has cooler weather, making it a great getaway from the desert. 

Phoenix

Phoenix has plenty of gorgeous elopement locations as well. The Phoenix Courthouse is a great option for a laid back, straightforward way to tie the knot, and you can go take photos somewhere else afterwards. There’s also the Desert Botanical Garden, offering a lush oasis in the city, with displays of desert plants and flowers. 

Page

Page is home to some of the most amazing landscapes in Arizona. You could elope at Horseshoe Bend, an iconic overlook with views of the Colorado River, tie the knot at Lake Powell, whether on a boat on the water or on one of the cliffs overlooking the lake, or explore one of the many slot canyons in the area!

The Best Time to Elope in Arizona

The best time to elope in Arizona is going to depend on the elopement location you choose – so I recommend thinking about that first before deciding on a date! 

Summer Elopements in Arizona

The northern part of the state is a lot cooler, with mountains, forests, and less extreme temperatures – so summer can be a great time to elope somewhere like Flagstaff. However, in the desert, summer can mean triple digit heat.

Fall Elopements in Arizona

Fall is a popular time to elope in the desert, as the weather gets cooler and better for outdoor adventures. Up north in the mountains, it gets a little chillier, but you can even see some fall foliage!

Winter Elopements in Arizona

Winter in the desert is usually pretty warm and sunny too! Up north, snow can fall in the mountains in the winter, and it gets a lot cooler. 

Spring Elopements in Arizona

Spring is another great time to elope in Arizona, with milder weather and desert wildflowers. Both spring and fall are popular times for visitors, but you can elope on a weekday and find more off the beaten path spots to avoid the crowds.

Getting Legally Married When You Elope in Arizona

In order to get legally married, you’ll need a marriage license. You can get one of those at any county clerk’s office in the state. In most counties, you both need to go there in person – however, Maricopa County allows residents of Arizona to complete the process online! When you apply, you both need a photo ID, and to pay the fee. The fee varies depending on the county – Maricopa County’s is $93.

You can get your marriage license up to a year in advance, and once you get it, you need an officiant and two witnesses to sign it. I know a lot of amazing officiants, so I’m happy to help you out with finding one! 

Tips and Things to Know When You Elope in Arizona

Before you tie the knot, here are some tips and things to know about eloping in Arizona.

Arizona Elopement Permits

Some locations will require a permit for elopements. However, not all of them do, so make sure you check the requirements! Permits usually range from $50 – $300, and it’s recommended that you apply for them early. Most locations will accept applications up to a year in advance. As your elopement photographer, I’ll help you with this! 

Rules and Regulations for Your Elopement

Each location will have their own rules and regulations for elopements. Usually, chairs, decorations, loud music, and anything that blocks access to trails is not allowed, and there can also be limitations on how many guests you can have. Thinking about your guest list before falling in love with a location can be helpful, so that you know how many people you’re planning to invite, and whether your location can accommodate that. These rules exist to protect these natural areas, so it’s important to be aware of them! 

Ready to Elope in Arizona?

Eloping in Arizona means endless opportunities for adventure, and whether you want to exchange vows and marry your best friend in the rugged beauty of the Superstition Mountains, the serene charm of Sedona, or the cool mountain air of Flagstaff, you can make sure your wedding day is exactly what you want it to be.

As an elopement photographer, my job is to be there every step of the way as you plan your dream day. I’ll help you with recommendations and tips, and everything you need! If you’re ready to start planning your Arizona elopement, contact me!