Elope in Arizona

desert canyons, saguaro forests, and canyon rim vistas

The Grand Canyon is one of the most recognized backdrops in the world, and getting a permit to elope there is achievable if you plan ahead. The South Rim has multiple designated ceremony sites, some accessible from the rim trail and others requiring a short hike in. Saguaro National Park outside Tucson offers a completely different desert experience: saguaro forests, ocotillo bloom, and desert light that peaks in spring. Spring elopements in Arizona are particularly popular for the wildflower timing and manageable temperatures before summer heat.

Elopement Locations in Arizona

7 location guides covering desert canyons, saguaro forests, and canyon rim vistas.

  • Grand Canyon National Park: National Park · March through May, September through November · Permit: Yes · Fee: $70 non refundable application fee + $210 management fee = $280 total
  • Petrified Forest National Park: National Park · March through May, September through November · Permit: Yes · Fee: Contact park for fee details
  • Saguaro National Park: National Park · October through April · Permit: Yes · Fee: $100 nonrefundable application fee plus ~$35/hr monitoring
  • Sedona Red Rock Country: National Forest · Spring and Fall (hot summers) · Permit: Varies
  • Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park: Tribal · Spring and Fall · Permit: Yes · Fee: 100 dollar non refundable processing fee for weddings of 5 or more people. 200 dollar fee for after the fact permit requests. Entry fee is 10 dollars per person per day per location plus 15 dollars per vehicle for the Valley Drive loop. Navajo guide fees separate and typically run 100 to 400 dollars or more depending on tour length. All fees subject to change at NNPRD discretion.
  • Chiricahua National Monument: National Monument · Spring and Fall · Permit: Yes · Fee: $100 non refundable application fee. Additional ranger monitoring cost recovery may apply.
  • Horseshoe Bend, Glen Canyon NRA: National Recreation Area · March through May, October through November · Permit: No · Fee: Free for groups of 5 or fewer · $300 SUP ($100 processing + $200 cost recovery) for 6+ people

Permit Guides for Arizona

Arizona Marriage License

No waiting period and a generous 1-year expiration makes Arizona very elopement-friendly. Per ARS 25-121, a license from ANY county's Clerk of Superior Court is valid statewide; so you can apply at whichever county is most convenient (e.g. Maricopa on the morning of a Sedona ceremony). Both partners must appear in person.

  • License fee: $83 to $98 (most counties $98)
  • Wait period: None
  • Witnesses required: 2
  • License valid for: 1 year