How to Elope
in Death Valley
Death Valley Elopement Guide
Table of Contents
✧ Is Death Valley Right for You?
✧ Getting to Death Valley
✧ Do I need an entrance reservation?
✧ Elopement Locations in Death Valley
✧ When to Elope in Death Valley
✧ Where Can We Stay?
✧ How to Elope in Death Valley
✧ How to Make it Legal
✧ Do You Need a Permit to Elope in Death Valley?
✧ Death Valley Elopement Timelines
✧ What Activities Can We Do?
✧ How Much Does it Cost to Elope in Death Valley?
✧ What to Wear to your Death Valley Elopement
✧ Death Valley Elopement Packages
✧ Ready to Plan Your Death Valley Elopement?
Is Death Valley Right for You?
If you’re on this page you probably don’t need much convincing to choose Death Valley National Park for your elopement. If you want gorgeous Southwestern scenery, seclusion, amazing night skies, and a sense of adventure all just two hours away from a major airport then this is the elopement destination for you! Don’t let the ominous name and reputation for extreme conditions keep you away from this gem.
The sheer variety of landscapes in Death Valley is staggering. It’s nearly the size of Connecticut, and the largest park in the lower 48! Many years of violent weather here shaped the land into a thing of rugged beauty. From salt flats to sand dunes to mountains to canyons… Death Valley National Park definitely has your ideal elopement backdrop.
With all this space it doesn’t take much effort to get away from the crowds. Even at its busiest time of year this park doesn’t come close to the chaos of parks like Yosemite or the Grand Canyon. If you’re willing to get out into the backcountry (hello dirt roads) you can experience true solitude in federally designated wilderness.
Keep reading to get all the details about eloping in this underrated national park.
Getting to Death Valley
Getting to Death Valley starts with a rental car and an open road. There’s no public transit that drops you right into the heart of the park. The closest major airport is in Las Vegas (Harry Reid International). From there, it’s roughly a 2-hour drive to Furnace Creek, the main hub inside the park.
Pro tip: download maps ahead of time. Cell service vanishes once you’re deep in the valley. And while you don’t need a 4×4 for many of the highlights, don’t rely on your normal rental for back-country dirt roads if you plan to explore off the beaten path.
Other common starting points:
Lost Angeles: 4 hour drive
San Diego: 5 hour drive
Reno: 6 hour drive
Phoenix: 7 hour drive
Yosemite National Park: 7.5 hour drive in the winter, 5 hours in summer (when Tioga Pass is open)
Do I Need an Entrance Reservation?
Unlike some parks, Death Valley generally doesn’t require a timed entry reservation for day-use, but you will need the standard entrance pass.
Here’s what you need to know:
Entrance fee
$30 per car, valid for 7 days (or grab an $80 annual America the Beautiful Pass—it’ll pay for itself if you’re planning more park adventures).
Reservations
None required! Unlike Yosemite, Arches, or other extremely popular parks, Death Valley does not require advanced day-use reservations at this time. All you need is the standard entrance pass.
This system can change year to year, so I always recommend checking the official Death Valley NPS website. As your elopement guide, I’ll help you stay on top of any updates or temporary access changes so nothing surprises you on your day.
Elopement Locations in Death Valley
Death Valley is filled with breathtaking backdrops, and choosing your ceremony or portrait spot is one of the most exciting (and overwhelming) parts of planning.
The good news? You can’t really go wrong—but here are some of the most popular and beautiful options for elopements:
Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes
These beautiful, soft, sweeping dunes start right at the edge of the parking area. They are stunning at any time of day. Perfect for dreamy movement and minimal hiking with plenty of visual drama.
Pro Tip: Many of these locations are popular with visitors. I always recommend sunrise or sunset ceremonies to avoid crowds and to capture the best light.
Don’t worry about choosing right now—you’ll get a custom location guide with recommendations based on your priorities, how far you’d like to walk, and the vibe you want for your day.
Artist's Palette
These rocky hills are infused with lovely, naturally-occurring pastel colors that come alive at sunrise and sunset.
Badwater basin
This salt flat is the lowest point in North America. Pristine white salt formations surrounded by the majestic blue and purple mountains creates a dramatic, cinematic backdrop. The salt stretches all the way to the horizon and feels other-worldly.
Zabriskie point
One of Death Valley's most iconic vistas, this spot offers panoramic views of unique geological formations. It's also one of the most accessible locations, just a short walk up a paved path from the parking lot.
Golden Canyon
If you're up for some hiking, this canyon provides a beautiful backdrop of striped foothills, red rock walls, and mountains. Golden Canyon lets you immerse yourself in the beauty of the desert.
Pro Tip: Many of these locations are popular with visitors, especially midday. I always recommend sunrise or sunset ceremonies to avoid crowds and to capture the best light.
Don’t worry about choosing right now—you’ll get a custom location guide with recommendations based on your priorities, how far you’d like to walk, and the vibe you want for your day.
When to Elope in Death Valley
Not every season is appropriate for a desert elopement!
Spring
(April–June)
April is a shoulder month--meaning it could be gorgeous or it could be scorching. I don't advise picking a date beyond mid-April. May and June will be uncomfortably hot.
Summer
(July–August)
Nope. Don't do it. Temperatures in the valley can soar to 130 degrees F (50 C). It's uncomfortable, unsafe, and the cameras will malfunction. Even higher elevations will hit triple digits.
Fall (September–
October)
September is still far too hot for a comfortable elopement. October is another one of those shoulder months where it could go either way, so I recommend pushing your date back as far as possible. Higher elevations are great in October.
Winter
(November–March)
YES!!! Late fall to early spring is the BEST time to elope in Death Valley. Temperatures are comfortable at most elevations and the desert is just beautiful. Expect higher crowds around major holidays, but even at its busiest there is solitude to be found here.
I’ll help you choose the month that matches your priorities. Whether that’s perfect temps, glimpsing the Milky Way, or fewer crowds.
Where Can We Stay?
I highly encourage staying INSIDE the park. There are fewer options but they are so much more convenient day-of.
within the park:
✧ The Inn at Death Valley - The most upscale option, located right in Furnace Creek
✧ The Ranch - Standard hotel lodging, also located right in Furnace Creek
✧ Stovepipe Wells - Standard lodging and campground located about 30 minutes from Furnace Creek, close to Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes
✧ Panamint Springs Resort - Rustic lodging and campgrounds located about an hour from Furnace Creek but still inside the park
✧ Camping - Be sure to check the park website to find out which campgrounds are open and which have RV hookups if needed. Follow backcountry rules if dispersed camping.
Outside the park:
Beatty, Nevada (~50 min drive from Furnace creek)
✧ Beatty has plenty of AirBnbs, and some standard hotels/motels. There are a couple restaurants (go to Smokin J's for BBQ!) but no grocery store. This is a small town!
Pahrump, nevada (~1 hour drive from furnace creek)
✧ Pahrump has plenty of standard hotels, motels, and casinos. It's much larger than Beatty and has all the conveniences: restaurants, grocery stores, drugstores, etc. Pahrump is halfway to Vegas.
Amargosa valley (~45-60 minute drive from furnace Creek)
✧ Amargosa Opera House at Death Valley Junction for a quirkier stay in a historic structure
✧ Glamping at Tarantula Ranch - This is a great spot to rent out for a weekend if you'll have a small group of attendees
How to Elope
in Death Valley
01
Choose Your Photographer
You’ll want a photographer who knows the park, understands the permit system, and can guide you through the process (hi, that’s me). From scouting the perfect ceremony spot to planning your timeline around light, my job is to help you design a day you’re excited for with as little stress as possible.
02
Choose Your Death valley Elopement Location
Do you want expansive salt-flats, golden dunes, or a vast overlook? We’ll talk through your dream vibe, mobility comfort, and the kind of backdrop that speaks to you — then narrow it down to the perfect match.
03
Secure Any Necessary Permits
A Special Use Permit is required for wedding ceremonies in Death Valley. The cost is $300 plus any monitor fees depending on group size/location. They require an application at least 30 days in advance. I’ll walk you through the application process and make sure you have everything you need.
04
Book Lodging and Other Vendors
Lodging can fill up fast (especially in peak season) so booking early is key. Whether you want an upscale hotel or a campsite, I’ll help you find the right fit. I can also connect you with trusted local vendors like florists, officiants, and hair and makeup artists.
05
Say “I do!”
Once the planning is done, it’s time for the best part: your wedding day. Whether you’re saying vows on the dunes at sunrise or stargazing after an intimate dinner, your elopement is about celebrating your love in a way that feels authentic to you.
How to Make It Legal
To legally marry in Death Valley, you’ll need a California marriage license. The easiest way is to get one from a county clerk’s office in California before your elopement.
You’ll also need an officiant and a witness—don’t worry, I can sign as your witness (OR I can legally marry you if needed—I'm ordained)! Then your officiant just needs to file the signed marriage license with the county recorder (the same office where you picked up the license).
Death Valley is located in Inyo County. Since the Inyo County Clerk is far from the park, most couples opt is to complete the legal paperwork before their trip to Death Valley at their home county courthouse. So as far as California is concerned, you’re already legally married. Then when it comes to your ceremony you don’t have to worry about finding an officiant and witness and driving back and forth to a County Clerk’s office. It’s already done.
Do You Need a Permit to Elope in Death Valley?
Yes, a Special Use Permit (to be obtained by the couple) is required for wedding ceremonies in Death Valley, even for elopements and vow renewals.
What to know:
✧ Cost: $300 to apply, plus any monitoring fees depending on group size/location to be paid after your event. This comes out to ~$50 per monitor per hour
✧ Timing: Submit a completed application at least 30 days before your date (earlier is better, especially in peak season… this is usually the first thing I have couples do, even a year out!).
✧ Restrictions: Some locations have group size limits, access issues, or extra wilderness restrictions. We'll choose a ceremony spot that makes the most sense for your situation.
I’ll help you navigate the application process so you know exactly what’s required and when.
Death Valley Elopement Timelines
It’s an elopement DAY not an elopement hour. You deserve documentation of the full experience just like a traditional wedding.
Here’s an example of what a full-day Death valley elopement might look like:
6:30 am
Sunrise first look + portraits at The Inn
8:00 am
Portraits at Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes
11:00 am
Hike into Mosaic Canyon for a brunch picnic
1:00 pm
Downtime or vow writing in the shade
5:00 pm
Sunset ceremony on the salt flats
8:00 pm
Private outdoor dinner at The Inn
9:30 pm
Stargazing portraits under the Milky Way
Here’s an example of what a two-day Death Valley elopement might look like:
6:30 am
Sunrise first look + portraits at The Inn
8:00 am
Ceremony with family at Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes
10:00 am
Brunch picnic with family on the dunes, portraits together
1:00 pm
Downtime or short hike into Mosaic Canyon
5:00 pm
Share a first dance and dinner with your families on your private terrace back at The Inn
Day 1
6:30 am
Sunrise hike along Dante's Ridge
7:30 am
Private vows on top of Dante's Ridge as the valley lights up beneath you
8:30 am
Picnic breakfast at Dante's View
9:30 am
Head back to the cars
Day 2
These are just a couple examples. Your timeline will be custom-built for your priorities, with plenty of space for rest, spontaneity, and magic.
What Activities Can We Do?
Part of the beauty of an adventure elopement in death valley is the flexibility to make it exactly what you want. Some things you can do include:
Wander among the salt polygons at Badwater Basin
Walk the rolling hills around Zabriskie Point at sunrise
Explore the kaleidoscope of colors at Artist's Palette
Run barefoot down the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes
Take a guided Jeep tour to the tallest dunes in CA
Hike into the otherworldly Golden Canyon
Drive the dramatic twists of 20 Mule Team Canyon
Watch the sunset at Dante's View with panoramic views
Explore wild salt formations at Devil's Golf Course
Spot endangered pupfish in the water at Salt Creek
Visit ghost nearby ghost towns like Rhyolite
Enjoy a relaxed picnic with sweeping valley views
Have a private dinner on your balcony at The Inn
Sip coffee together at sunrise
Get portraits with the Milky Way streaking across the sky
Watch for wildlife like bighorn sheep, coyotes, ravens, kit foxes, lizards...
Stargaze with some of the darkest skies in California
Go horseback riding with a guide through the desert
Visit the Death Valley Visitor Center to learn about the park’s history
Visit the iconic "sailing stones" at The Racetrack Playa
Explore a slot canyon like Mosaic Canyon
Swim in one of the pools at The Oasis
Take a scenic drive along Glacier Point Road (seasonal)
Play golf at the Furnace Creek Golf Course
Visit the spa at The Inn
How Much Does
it Cost to Elope in
Death Valley?
While costs vary depending on your vision, here are some typical expenses:
✧ Special Use Permit: $300
✧ Park Entrance Fee: $30 (per car, 7 days)
✧ Marriage License: $60–$100 (depending on the county)
✧ Lodging: ~$200–$600+ per night, depending on season and location
✧ Vendors (hair, makeup, florals, etc.): $1,000–$5,000+ depending on your preferences
✧ Activities (hiking, horseback riding, guided Jeep tour, etc): free-$1,000+ depending on your chosen activities
✧ Photography: My Death Valley elopement packages start at $3,800
Did you know the average spend on weddings in the US in 2025 is approximately $36,000? Compared to a traditional wedding, eloping in Death Valley is almost certainly more affordable while giving you an unbelievable experience… and dare I say a BETTER experience!
What to Wear to Your Death Valley Elopement
The key to feeling comfortable (and looking amazing) is choosing attire that works with the environment.
Wedding Dresses:
Go for lightweight fabrics that flow in the wind. Avoid heavy ballgowns that trap heat or are hard to move in. Don't be afraid of color if that's what you love! There are no rules. Two brands I love are Rue de Seine and Flora Lane.
suits:
Lightweight suits or separates are best for warmer months; add layers for fall and winter. I highly recommend picking a fabric with some stretch if you’ll be physically active. Two brands I love are Indochino and SuitShop.
Shoes:
Comfortable shoes are a must! Many couples hike in boots and change into dress shoes for the ceremony (or keep the boots on for an adventurous vibe).
Layers:
Temperatures can swing dramatically, so pack jackets, wraps, or shawls—even in warmer months. And don’t forget a waterproof layer just in case it rains (they also double as wind breakers if needed)! Weather is always a possibility, so it's best to come prepared.
I’ll send you a custom packing list so you’ll know exactly what to bring based on your location and time of year.
Death Valley Elopement
Packages
Every package includes:
✧ Custom Location Scouting & Suggestions
✧ Timeline Creation
✧ Permit Research and Guidance
✧ Vendor Recommendations
✧ 85+ page Elopement Planning Guide
✧ Unlimited Planning Help
✧ Professionally Edited, High-resolution Photos
✧ Sneak Peeks Within 24 Hours
✧ Photographer’s Travel + Lodging Included
When you book me as your Yosemite elopement photographer, you’re getting more than just photos. I’ll be your planner, your local expert, and a friendly trusted presence on your wedding day.
Packages start at $3,800
Ready to Plan Your Death Valley Elopement?
I believe in laid-back luxury, where the focus is on your experience and creating a safe environment for you to be yourselves.
While I take my work seriously, I never take myself too seriously. I approach each elopement day with a sense of humor and a flexible mindset. I understand that sometimes things might not go exactly as planned—and that’s okay. Ultimately, what matters is capturing the genuine (sometimes wonderfully unplanned!) moments that make your day YOURS.
