Death Valley Elopement Guide
How to Elope in Death Valley
FROM ALL THE BEST TIPS, LOGISTICS, THE MOST EPIC LOCATIONS AND EVERYTHING ELSE YOU NEED TO KNOW WHEN PLANNING YOUR Death Valley National Park ELOPEMENT.
California holds some of the most amazing National Parks, stunning mountain ranges, coastal locations and all the desert vibes. It’s no wonder when couples are planning their intimate weddings and elopement - the sunshine state comes straight to the top of their list. Check out why!
If you're thinking of eloping in Death Valley, you've come to the right place!
Don't be fooled by the name; this little-known national park is one of the most distinctive and gorgeous in the United States. It's also the lowest, driest, and hottest location in the United States! Not only that, but it's nearly 3 million acres in length, making finding a completely isolated place for your ceremony perfectly feasible.
It's no surprise that you're considering a Death Valley elopement. With so many diverse settings to visit, this park is ideal for daring couples. This article covers everything you need to know about how to elope in the park, including permit information, airport transportation, and even elopement packages!
So if you're considering saying "I do" in this desert wonderland, keep reading for all the important details!
How to Elope in Death Valley | How to legally get married in Death Valley
Death Valley Elopement Logistics:
MARRIAGE LAWS in California
Marriage License: Before you can have your Death Valley elopement, you’ll need a California state marriage license.
Both of you must be at least 18 years old, and you must apply for and sign for the license in person.
The cost for a public marriage license is $84.
There’s no waiting period, so you can get your license in the morning and get married in the afternoon.
A ceremony must occur within 90 days from the date the license is issued. *a ceremony may take place anywhere within the state of California.
Permitting
To elope in Death Valley National Park, you'll need a special use permit. The fee for the permit is $300, and it must be applied for a minimum of 30 days before the event. So the sooner the better!
For more information on obtaining a permit, see below.
Fill out the permit application electronically.
Send in your paperwork along with a request to pay by credit card to deva_permits@nps.gov.
Once your permit has been received, you'll receive an email telling you how to pay the fee - along with any next steps on completing the permit application and restrictions
How to Elope in Death Valley | Best time of year for your Death Valley Elopement
When to elope in Death Valley National Park?
THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO ELOPE IN Death Valley:
I’m going to just be honest and keep this simple. Summer should be avoided for elopements (or just in general lol) since Death Valley is the hottest location in the United States. Both during the day and at night, temperatures regularly reach over 100 degrees, making your elopement a truly unpleasant experience. Trust me, I've been there - 118 degrees at 9p isn't ideal. Consider eloping from October to February the fall and winter season, the weather is nice.
How to Elope in Death Valley | Best Death Valley Elopement Locations
Where to elope in Death Valley National Park:
Death Valley has some of the most BEAUTIFULLY wild LANDSCAPES IN THE U.S. you’ve just got to experience
Remember – this is your big day, so choose a location that speaks to you. Where you choose to elope will set the tone and mood for the entire experience.
Zabriskie Point
Hands down one of my favorite elopement locations in Death Valley - walk through the wild desert terrain is a must! My favorite time to adventure around Zabriskie Point is 100% Sunset, Blue Hour and taking in the stars past dust into the night.
Artist’s Pallet
The Artist Palette is one of the park's most stunning sites in Death Valley. The rolling hills with their vivid colors will certainly surprise anyone who sees your photographs. Sunrise and sunset are ideal times to obtain the most color in your photos. This is a more popular location for elopements in Death Valley, so be prepared.
Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes
The Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes are the most easily accessible dunes in the park. Within the dunes, there are some stunning vistas of the valley and also offer a ton of options for variety and privacy.
Badwater Basin Salt Flats
The Badwater Basin Salt Flats Trail is a one-way walk that takes 1.9 miles to the lowest point in North America! The setting is flat with mostly mountainous backdrops. It's ideal if you're seeking for something more accessible while also getting beautiful mountain range views.
Dante’s View Trail
Just a a 1 mile roundtrip hike that allow you to take in some of the most inspiring views of the park. The trail itself towards the top gets a bit steep, so this location would be more ideal for a small group or couples portraits.
Death Valley Elopement Packing List:
Wedding Attire & Accessories:
Light and breathable wedding attire (considering the heat)
Sun hats or wide-brimmed hats
Sunglasses
Sand-appropriate footwear (comfortable sandals or lightweight shoes)
Vow books
Minimalist jewelry
Outdoor Clothing:
Light and loose-fitting layers to protect from the sun
Light jackets or shawls for cooler evenings
Scarves or wraps for sun protection
Comfortable sandals or breathable shoes
Swimsuits (if there are water features or hot springs)
Hiking Gear:
Lightweight and breathable backpack
Sunscreen
Hydration system or reusable water bottles
Sun hats
Sunglasses
Microfiber towels
Sand-resistant footwear or gaiters
Ceremony:
Marriage license and necessary legal documents
Small backpack or daypack
Rings securely stored
Wedding vows or speeches written on durable paper
Any props or special items for photos
Refreshments:
Plenty of water
Refreshing snacks (e.g., fruits, nuts, and light snacks)
Portable picnic set if planning a celebratory meal
Alcoholic or Non-alcoholic beverages
Weather Preparedness:
Sunscreen with high SPF
Hats and sunglasses
Light and breathable clothing for hot temperatures
Sand-resistant items (e.g., umbrellas, scarves)
Permits and Permissions:
Check if you need permits for the chosen desert location
Notify appropriate authorities about your elopement plans
Emergency Preparedness:
List of emergency contacts
Knowledge of the nearest medical facilities
Basic survival gear (flashlights, multi-tool, etc.)
Cleanup Supplies:
Trash bags for any waste
Leave No Trace principles – leave the desert as you found it
Transportation:
Reliable transportation to and from the desert location
Check road conditions and fuel availability
Timeline and Planning:
Detailed timeline for the day, considering the heat
Plan for sunrise or sunset ceremonies to avoid peak temperatures
Comfort Items:
Portable shade options (umbrellas, lightweight tents)
Cooling towels
Sand-resistant blankets or cushions for seating
Folding chairs if needed
Entertainment:
Music playlist and portable speaker
Binoculars for scenic desert views
Other:
Dry bag for valuables to protect from sand
Camping gear if planning to stay overnight
Power adapters for electronic devices
Desert-appropriate insect repellent
WANT SOME INSPO FOR YOUR DEATH VALLEY ELOPEMENT? CHECK OUT SOME OF MY FAVORITE JOURNALED ADVENTURES:
Want to Elope in Death Valley National Park?
Are you ready to start planning your Death Valley elopement? I know the perfect person for the job. In addition to being your elopement photographer, I can also help you plan your special day. Let’s chat about your elopement in California. I’d love to hear more about your hopes and dreams for your wedding day.
Your Death Valley Elopement Photographer + Videographer
that’s me, Rylee!
& I’m going to be your guide on navigating this whole eloping in Death Valley thing. While I live in the pnw, my adventures starting in the Sierra Nevadas - so I’m not just as another photographer, writing another guide on where happens to be on California. this ones special because California will always be my home.
Death Valley Elopement Packages
Planning and Resources:
From phone chats, happy hour, brewery dates to multiple questionnaires. I want to get to know your love & values so I can create a timeless experience that reflects the most authentic you that will last forever through imagery
Complementary planning assistance from me
locations ideas, checklists, timelines, & vendor recommendations
Fully edited, High-Resolution photos
Custom Online Gallery
Personal Printing Rights
Sneak Peek Photos
Custom GIF’s & Double Exposures
Traveling Included
PHOTOGRAPHY PACKAGES STARTING AT $4800
