June 21, 2026

How to Plan an Epic Kanab Elopement

When people imagine what the wild west once looked like, they think of endless desert plains with spires of red rocks under wide open skies that stretch as far as the eye can see—they think of an untouched natural world filled with mystery and possibilities. This is exactly what Kanab has to offer. 

From its network of hidden caves and slot canyons to the one-of-a-kind rock formations scattered across the vast landscape, this city provides a setting that will make you feel like you’re exchanging your vows somewhere frozen in time.

Having travelled all over the world photographing elopements, I can say I have felt the impact of Kanab’s beauty firsthand and it’s unlike anywhere else—it is peculiar, striking, and perfect for couples who dream of having a truly epic elopement. If you’re looking to have one of your own, then just keep reading for my best insider tips on how to plan it!

Frequently asked questions about eloping in Kanab:

What makes Kanab a great place to elope? 

After more than ten years of elopement photography, Kanab is still one of my favorite places to recommend for couples who want to elope somewhere that feels both unique and dramatic.

Kanab is one of the best examples of Utah’s signature red-rock landscapes, filled with sand caves, hoodoos, and canyons that are as stunning as they are striking. The Peekaboo Slot Canyons and Great Chamber alone have an otherworldly vibe that will make you feel like you’re exploring a place no one’s ever seen.

This is a place that feels epic, yet intimate—like you and your partner alone are part of something bigger than yourselves, which only makes exchanging your vows here all the more special and unforgettable.

How do you get to Kanab?

Luckily, Kanab is available as a destination on most common map apps! It’s located at 37°02’50.4″N 112°31’34.9″W, where US-89 meets US-89A, just over an hour’s drive west of Page, AZ and about 40 miles east of Zion National Park.

For out-of-towners, the closest major airport to Kanab is the Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas, about 200 miles southwest. If you rent a car, the drive should take about 3.5 hours, but you can also connect through Vegas and fly into the Page Municipal Airport which gets you within about 75 miles of Kanab and shortens the drive to a little over an hour!

When’s the best time to visit Kanab? 

The best time to visit Kanab would be either during the spring or fall. Both those seasons offer fewer crowds and mild weather, giving you more opportunities to take advantage of all Kanab can offer. Fall, in particular, is absolutely stunning—the changing foliage brings golden hues to the Utah desert, complimenting the classic red rock formations the state is known for and offering epic backdrops for your wedding photos!

Weekdays are typically better than weekends if you want less foot-traffic, and the same goes for early mornings or late evenings. Those windows also provide the best lighting, just as the sun rises or sets, casting a soft glow on the entire area.

Best places to elope in Kanab:

With its winding canyons and unique desert landscapes, Kanab is filled with stunning elopement spots! Many of the best ones are located in state parks which means you are guaranteed to be surrounded by gorgeous views and incredibly preserved natural wonders that will make you feel like you’ve been transported to another world.

Here are just some of my favorite places to elope in Kanab:

  • Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
    • Cost: $105–$190
      • Special Use Permit: $60–$100
      • Park Access Fee: $5–$15
      • Marriage License: $40–$75
    • Permit: Apply for a Special Use Permit on the Utah State Parks official website here!
  • Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
    • Cost: $105–$165
      • Special Recreation Permit: $130
      • Marriage License: $40–$75
    • Permit: Apply for a Special Recreation Permit on the Bureau of Land Management’s official website—I’ve linked the application here for your convenience! Keep in mind that if your elopement is small enough, you may not require a permit, so be sure to double check with the BLM Field Office in Kanab (contact: BLM_UT_KN_Mail@blm.gov) before submitting an application. 
  • Peekaboo Slot Canyon (sometimes called Red Canyon)
    • Cost: $105–$165
      • Special Recreation Permit: $130
      • Marriage License: $40–$75
    • Permit: Same as above, since the canyon is located in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
  • The Great Chamber (also known as Cutler Point)
    • Cost: $105–$165
      • Special Recreation Permit: $130
      • Marriage License: $40–$75
    • Permit: Same as above, since the chamber is located in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

Best wedding venues in Kanab:  

If you’re expecting more than 15 guests for your elopement, a wedding venue might be the best way to provide an accessible and manageable place for everyone to gather. Kanab has a ton of incredible options no matter what vibe you’re looking for—intimate and simple or extravagant and luxurious—and the range in pricing makes it easy to find the perfect place for you! 

Here are just a few options for venues in the Kanab area:  

  • The Rivers Ranch
    • Cost:
      • Peak Season (April–June)
        • $3,200 (Monday–Thursday)
        • $4,750 (Friday & Sunday)
        • $5,750 (Saturday)
      • Regular Season (September–December)
        • $2,400 (Monday–Thursday)
        • $3,950 (Friday & Sunday)
        • $4,950 (Saturday) 
    • Guest Count: 150 max 
  • Cave Lakes Canyon Ranch
    • Cost: Starting at $6,000 (You can request a quote on the venue’s official website here)
    • Guest Count:
      • Ceremony: 10–60 (varies depending on the cave you choose—I’ve listed them and their respective guest parameters below for your convenience!)
        • Costner Cave: 50–60
        • Dellenbaugh Cave: 30–40
        • Weeping Cave: 10–15
      • Reception: 300 max (Cave Commons)
  • Camp Sarika by Amangiri
    • Cost: Starting at $450,000 (includes venue, catering, and lodging) 
    • Guest Count: 20-40
  • Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
    • Cost: $750–$1,500
      • Monday–Thursday: $750 
      • Friday–Sunday: $1,500
    • Guest Count: 300 max

This information is accurate as of the writing of this guide in 2026, but be sure to double check with the venue for confirmation before booking. I am happy to share more recommendations and help you find exactly what you’re looking for when we work together! 

How much does it cost to elope in Kanab? 

The cost of eloping in Kanab varies depending on your choice of venue/site, whether or not you’re having a reception, your guest count, travel costs, etc. If you want something small and intimate, you can elope in one of the gorgeous state park canyons for as little as the cost of a marriage license, which could be anywhere between $40 and $75. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something grander and more luxurious, you can choose from any of the stunning venues Kanab has to offer, with costs ranging from $750 to thousands of dollars. No matter what you decide though, you will have stunning views of Kanab’s unique landscapes and access some absolutely beautiful spots you won’t be able to find anywhere else!

Most of the couples who hire me prioritize the experience of having an adventure somewhere epic, so they invest a lot of their budget in photography to make sure every moment is preserved. If you want to know more, you can check out my full cost of eloping guide here!

Activities to do during Kanab elopements:

With its unique and breathtaking landscapes, Kanab is one of the most interesting cities to explore in Utah and definitely one of my favorites! No matter what you do or where you go, you’ll be surrounded by sweeping views that can make you feel like you’re either on a grand adventure or just sharing a quiet moment somewhere epic.

These are just some of your options for activities in the Kanab area:

  • Sandboarding at the Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
  • Going on a UTV tour of the Peekaboo Slot Canyons 
  • Visiting the Great Chamber
  • Exploring the Sand Caves
  • Taking a tour of the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
  • Hike the Wire Pass Trail
  • Visiting the Moqui Cave Museum
  • Exploring the Toadstool Hoodoos

Including an activity in your elopement can turn the experience into something truly special and Kanab has some amazing options. Whether it’s exploring a sand cave or touring the canyons, you and your partner have no shortage of choices for ways to spend your time and create memories that will stay with you forever. 

Are dogs allowed in Kanab? 

Yes, Kanab is extremely pet-friendly—it’s actually home to the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary! Most of the parks and trails in the area allow dogs if they’re leashed, but I recommend double-checking the specific rules for your destination of choice before visiting since some places like Bryce Canyon National Park will allow dogs at certain lookouts or on some trails but not all. 

Kanab Elopement & Wedding Photos

Robin & Dillon’s Kanab Fall Adventure Engagement 

I’ve talked about Robin & Dillon’s insanely epic 3-day engagement trip throughout Utah in posts I’ve made about Bryce Canyon National Park and the Bonneville Salt Flats. They hit so many genuinely jaw-dropping spots of Utah in such a limited time that I’m still floored. 

Kanab was actually their first stop on this roadtrip, and they really wanted to tackle the slot canyons. There are TONS of them in this area, all super cool and carved out of the Earth in really unique ways. 

They also visited the Great Chamber while they were here, which is a MASSIVE arched rock dome that genuinely has to be seen to be believed. Because it was a shoulder season and not in the middle of summer, not only was the weather better, there were also way less people around. 

At the end of this day, as they were heading back to their glamping accommodations (a super cool elevated tent complete with rope swings built into the rock and a fire pit) we saw a huge rainbow in the sky. They got super excited so of course, we pulled over and took more photos! These two are huge film buffs so they really appreciated the super cinematic lighting and timing. 

And all of that was just Day 1!

A couple embraces on a narrow, winding path surrounded by tall, red sandstone cliffs and scattered desert vegetation, seen from above. The woman wears a flowing brown dress.
A smiling couple sits by a campfire under a rock overhang, with wooden chairs and two hanging hammock chairs in the background, creating a cozy, rustic atmosphere.
A couple kisses while one sits in a hanging hammock chair and the other leans in. They are under a rocky overhang in a desert-like setting, with another empty hammock chair beside them.
Two people sit in hanging hammocks in a cave-like setting, smiling and relaxing above gravel, with a warm, blurred fire in the foreground and rocky walls behind them.
A smiling couple walks arm-in-arm on a gravel path under a rocky overhang, with two hanging hammock chairs behind them. They are dressed in casual, warm clothing and appear happy together.
Aerial view of a glamping tent on a wooden platform beside a rocky cliff, with a white SUV parked nearby and two people standing on a stone path amid trees and dry grass.
Aerial view of a yurt and a white SUV parked on a dirt road near a large rock overhang, surrounded by trees and rugged, rocky terrain. Two people are sitting under the rock formation.
A rocky hillside dotted with small green shrubs and trees is illuminated by the warm light of the setting sun, with a bright sky and scattered clouds in the background.
Two hikers with backpacks walk up a sandy, shrub-filled slope toward a towering, sunlit rock formation with layered textures in a desert landscape.
View from inside a natural sandstone arch, looking out at blue sky with scattered clouds and a distant rocky hill. Warm sunlight highlights the curves and textures of the smooth, orange-tan rock.
A couple stands on sandy dunes by a textured sandstone cliff. The woman wears a long, flowing bronze dress and looks back while holding the hand of a man in a white shirt and dark pants.
A woman in a flowing brown dress and a man in a white shirt hold hands, standing on sand in front of a large, sunlit sandstone cliff. The sky is bright and partly cloudy.
A woman in a flowing brown dress holds hands with a man in a white shirt, standing on sand in front of a tall rock formation, with sunlight shining from behind them.
Two people walk on golden sand dunes under a large, naturally formed sandstone arch with sunlight streaming through, set against a bright blue sky with scattered clouds.
Two people walk together on golden sand dunes beneath a large, arching rock formation, with blue sky and scattered clouds in the background.
A couple walks hand in hand on golden sand beneath a large, natural sandstone arch, with clear blue sky and distant horizon visible through the opening.
Two people stand on a sandy dune beneath a large, natural sandstone arch, with clear blue sky and sunlight illuminating the desert landscape.
Two people walk hand in hand across golden sand beneath a large, sunlit, natural rock arch with a clear blue sky in the background.
Two people in flowing clothing stand on golden sand beneath a large rock arch in a desert, with sunlight illuminating them and a blue sky with scattered clouds above.
A woman in a flowing brown dress and a man in a white shirt and dark pants embrace on sandy dunes, with dramatic, wind-sculpted rock formations in the background.
A woman in a flowing brown dress and a man in a white shirt walk hand in hand down a sandy desert slope, with the man kicking up sand as they smile in the sunlight.
A woman in a flowing brown dress and a man in a white shirt and beige pants walk hand in hand down a sandy dune, smiling and kicking up sand, with a large rock formation and blue sky in the background.
A woman in a flowing brown dress twirls joyfully on sand dunes while a man in a white shirt and dark pants watches her, with dramatic, layered sandstone cliffs in the background.
A couple sits on sandy dunes. The woman, in a flowing bronze dress, leans against the man, who wears a white shirt and dark pants. They appear relaxed and affectionate, with a desert landscape in the background.
A couple sits close together on sand, with the man in a white shirt embracing the woman in a rust-colored dress. They smile softly, holding hands and looking relaxed and happy.
A couple sits close together on sand, smiling and embracing warmly. The man wears a white shirt, and the woman has long blonde hair and wears an orange top. They both appear happy and content.
A couple sits close together on pale sand in a desert canyon. The woman wears a long flowing brown dress, and the man wears a white shirt and dark pants. They embrace, surrounded by smooth sand and rock walls.
A couple sits together on a sandy slope under a rock formation. The woman in a flowing brown dress laughs joyfully while the man in a white shirt smiles, both looking relaxed and happy in the sunlight.
Two people walk up a sandy slope against a dramatic, sunlit rock formation in a desert landscape. The image is in black and white, highlighting the textures and shadows on the rock and sand.
A view from inside a large sandstone arch overlooks a sandy slope and an expansive desert landscape under a blue sky with scattered clouds.
Two people stand on sandy dunes beneath a large, naturally formed sandstone arch with sunlight illuminating the rock. A blue sky with scattered clouds is visible through the opening.
A woman in a flowing brown dress stands on sand, holding her skirt out, while a man in a white shirt and dark pants stands nearby. They are in front of a large, sunlit sandstone cliff under a clear blue sky.
A couple stands together on sandy dunes, holding a flowing blanket, with a large, textured white rock formation in the background. The scene is in black and white.
A couple stands on sandy dunes beside a sheer, textured sandstone cliff. The woman’s brown dress billows dramatically in the wind under a clear blue sky.
A woman in a flowing bronze dress holds hands with a man in a white shirt and dark pants as they stand on textured, layered sandstone formations.
A couple embraces on swirling, sand-colored rock formations. The woman wears a long, flowing, brown dress that spreads behind her, while the man stands behind her in a white shirt and dark pants, both smiling gently.
A couple holding hands walks across a dramatic sandstone landscape; the woman’s flowing brown dress trails behind as they move toward textured, swirling rock formations.
A couple stands hand in hand on stunning layered sandstone, the woman in a flowing brown dress and the man in a white shirt and dark pants, framed by dramatic swirling rock formations.
A woman in a flowing bronze dress and a man in a white shirt walk hand-in-hand down a steep sand dune, surrounded by dramatic, textured desert scenery.
Two people stand on a sandy dune at the base of a massive, textured rock wall with warm beige and orange tones, highlighting the scale and beauty of the natural landscape.
Two people and a dog walk together on a sandy slope at the base of large, textured orange rock formations under a blue sky with wispy clouds.
Two people sit on a steep sandy slope beneath a large, layered sandstone cliff under a blue sky with wispy clouds in a desert landscape.
A person in a flowing brown dress lies on a sandy dune near a bush, while another person in a white shirt and dark pants sits above watching, under warm sunlight in a desert landscape.
Golden sandstone cliffs rise sharply under a clear blue sky, with smooth orange sand dunes and a few small desert shrubs in the foreground. The textured rocks display layers and natural erosion patterns.
A couple sits closely together on a large, striated rock formation with wavy, orange-tan layers, surrounded by rugged, sunlit sandstone in a desert landscape.
A couple sits close together on a dramatic, striated sandstone formation in warm sunlight, surrounded by sweeping curves and earthy tones, with the sky visible in the background.
A couple stands on a textured, rock-like surface. The woman wears a long, flowing copper-brown gown, while the man wears dark pants and a white shirt. Their faces are not visible.
Two people hike up a sandy desert trail near a leafless tree, surrounded by dry brush and distant mesas under a clear sky. One person uses walking sticks, and both carry backpacks.
A white Jeep Wrangler drives on a dusty dirt road surrounded by green trees and bushes under a clear blue sky, kicking up dust as it rounds a bend in the trail.
A white SUV drives on a dusty dirt road between rugged red rock formations and green shrubs under a clear blue sky.
View looking up through a narrow, winding slot canyon with reddish-brown rock walls, revealing a blue sky with scattered clouds above. Sunlight highlights the textured rock formations.
A couple stands close to a tall, textured red rock wall in a narrow canyon. The woman wears a flowing brown dress, and the man wears a white shirt and dark pants. They gaze upward, holding hands amid rocky ground.
A couple stands close together in a narrow sandstone canyon, surrounded by tall, orange rock walls. The woman wears a long, flowing mustard dress; the man is dressed in a white shirt and olive pants.
A couple stands close together in a narrow, rocky canyon with light streaming down from above, creating a dramatic and romantic atmosphere.
A couple stands close together in a narrow, sunlit canyon with red rock walls. The woman wears a flowing golden dress, and the man wears a white shirt and dark pants. Sun rays filter through the dust in the air.
A couple embraces in a narrow, sunlit slot canyon with tall, smooth red rock walls. The woman wears a flowing gold dress, and rays of sunlight illuminate the dramatic scene.
A couple stands closely together in a narrow, sunlit slot canyon with smooth, reddish-orange walls. The woman wears a flowing brown dress, and the man is dressed in light-colored clothes.
A couple walks through a narrow, winding slot canyon with towering red rock walls. The woman wears a flowing brown dress and the man is in a white shirt. Sunlight filters from above, illuminating the rocky path.
A couple walks hand in hand through a narrow red rock canyon; the woman wears a flowing brown dress that trails behind her, and the man wears a white shirt and dark pants.
A couple stands between towering, narrow red rock canyon walls. The woman wears a flowing, golden-brown dress and the man wears a white shirt; both face away, touching the textured stone as they admire the natural scenery.
A woman in a long, flowing brown dress stands in a dramatic slot canyon, touching the textured, swirling sandstone walls, with light filtering in from above.
A couple stands close together in a narrow, sunlit canyon with tall, reddish rock walls, soft light streaming through, and dust particles visible in the air.
A person in a flowing brown dress gently touches the textured, layered rock wall of a narrow canyon. The scene emphasizes natural earth tones and soft lighting.
Two people stand at the base of towering, narrow red rock canyon walls, bathed in warm light. The canyon curves overhead, creating dramatic shadows and a sense of scale and natural beauty.
Black and white photo of a couple embracing, with the woman smiling and closing her eyes while hugging the man, both wearing light-colored shirts against a dark background.
A joyful woman smiles up while being embraced by a man who gently kisses her forehead. The black-and-white photo captures their affectionate moment.
View looking up from inside a narrow red sandstone canyon, with smooth, curving rock walls and an opening at the top revealing a partly cloudy sky.
Aerial view of a couple walking along a narrow, winding path between tall, red rock canyon walls with sparse green vegetation.
Two people with backpacks walk through a narrow, rocky canyon with towering red rock walls and sparse greenery under an overcast sky.

Hey I’m Maddie Mae

Kanab Elopement Photographer

For over a decade I’ve designed, planned, & photographed adventure elopements around the world, so if you’re looking for someone with years of experience photographing adventure elopements in different cities and countries, then you’re in the right place! I can help you navigate the logistics of planning a destination elopement and make sure it’s as stress-free as possible so you can have a wedding that feels 100% you.

A woman with long brown hair and glasses smiles at the camera. She wears a black blazer, a black top, and a pendant necklace. The background is a plain light gray wall.

Kanab Elopement Packages

To check my availability, just contact me here for a free planning consultation and we can get started!

Always included:

8+ Hours of guided, fun photography coverage by Maddie Mae with relaxed sightseeing & exploring

The Adventure Instead Elopement Experience™

Unique & secluded locations, bespoke activity ideas with pre-vetted guides, fun & luxurious lodging options, an experience-focused timeline, mood board & personalized styling suggestions, travel advice, VIP Planning Guide, and customized packing checklists

Free initial planning consultation call, direct access to Maddie Mae via text & email, unlimited planning consultations, unlimited collaboration & revisions, pre-vetted local vendor recommendations, and advice &and help with permits & marriage licenses

Guided + FUN photography experience, empathetic posing & directing, creative GIFS &and drone photography, hand-crafted editing, full-resolution image files with printing rights, digital gallery to view, download, & print, complementary album design, and convenient print ordering

My travel costs are covered and included to anywhere in the U.S.A (including Alaska & Hawaii)

$9,800 for all of the above including 8-hours of photography

Full-day, multi-day, and custom packages available.

No added travel costs. No hidden fees of any kind.

Hey there!

I’m Maddie Mae

Your Elopement Photographer, Experience Designer & Planning Consultant



For the last 14 years I’ve traveled to 40 countries, all 7 continents, and planned & photographed over 300 elopements all over the world.

A woman with long brown hair and glasses smiles at the camera. She wears a black blazer, a black top, and a pendant necklace. The background is a plain light gray wall.

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Ready to start planning your dream destination elopement?

Hey, I’m Maddie Mae

Your Elopement Photographer, Experience Designer & Planning Consultant

A person with long hair and glasses is sitting on sand, smiling at the camera. They are wearing a black lace cardigan over a beige top, with hoop earrings and a necklace. The background is a sandy expanse.

“The woman who sparked the adventure
elopement trend”  – Forbes

I don’t just photograph elopements –
I design and plan a curated, unique experience around the two of you—one you’ll enjoy every minute of.

I want to get to know what makes you two feel alive and create an experience worthy of this
incredible love you’ve found

“The woman who sparked the adventure elopement trend”  – Forbes

40

countries and 7 continents worth of travel experience and knowledge

13

years experience planning and photographing elopements & weddings

300

one-of-a-kind elopements & intimate weddings planned & photographed

2019

the year I eloped too (after planning my own destination elopement in just 6 weeks)

What makes my elopement packages different?

Every Adventure Instead elopement experience includes:

Reach out & we’ll start planning your dream elopement

Don’t worry, most couples who inquire with me have no plans at all. 
Helping turn vague ideas into a thrilling plan is my specialty.

I can’t wait to hear your ideas and help bring them to life

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Note: I usually only photograph weddings with 25 guests or less
A laptop displaying a planning guide and checklist titled "How to Plan Your Elopement" sits next to a plant and mug, setting the scene for an inspired workspace. A smartphone with text rests on the desk, hinting at an adventure instead of tradition.

Not quite ready to reach out, but want help planning your elopement?

I created the ultimate destination elopement planning guide & checklist to help you get started