How to elope at Horseshoe Bend
Eloping in Horseshoe Bend is a dream for couples seeking a unique and adventurous ceremony setting. This ancient rock formation, carved by the Colorado River millions of years ago, offers an unforgettable scene for couples to exchange vows, fully equipped with red cascading cliffs and winding turquoise rivers.
Is Horseshoe Bend a part of the Grand Canyon?
Horseshoe Bend is a “horseshoe-shaped” meander of the Colorado River, located near Page, Arizona, and, aside from its nickname- "east rim of the Grand Canyon,” it is essential to note that Horseshoe Bend is not located within the Grand Canyon National Park. Instead, it is situated in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, about two-and-a-half hours north of Grand Canyon's North Rim, near Lake Powell.
How was Horseshoe Bend Made?
Horseshoe Bend is a natural phenomenon resulting from millions of years of erosion by the Colorado River. The river carved a horseshoe-shaped curve that is approximately 1,000 feet deep.
How to get to the Horseshoe Bend overlook
To reach Horseshoe Bend, start from Page, Arizona, and drive 5 miles south on US-89. Look for the "Horseshoe Bend Overlook" sign, turn right into the parking lot, and pay the $10 fee. The 1.5-mile hike to the overlook is on a hardened path accessible under the ADA regulations. Two shade structures are along the trail, but none at the overlook. Prepare for the short walk with water, sturdy footwear, and sunscreen.
Can I bring my dog to the Horseshoe Bend overlook?
Dogs are allowed in Horseshoe Bend but must be leashed and under control. There is no extra fee for bringing them.
When is the best time to visit the Horseshoe Bend overlook?
Although the overlook is a breathtaking view at any time, frequent visitors say the best time to visit is early morning (around 8 AM) to avoid crowds and capture the best lighting for photography. Avoid just before sunset as the sun will be in your eyes, and the bend will be in shadow.
Can I explore the actual plateau of Horseshoe Bend?
The area south of the Horseshoe Bend overlook is located within Navajo Nation territory, and Access to the plateau is not open to the public.
How do I access the water below Horseshoe Bend?
Kayaking or boating on the Colorado River below Horseshoe Bend requires legal access, only available at Lee's Ferry, located 9 miles upstream.
How to Elope at Horseshoe Bend
How to elope at Horseshoe Bend Overlook:
Obtain a special use permit:
The National Park Service requires event permit fees of $300, due 45 days before the event.
Find an officiant:
You can either hire a local officiant or bring your own.
Apply for a marriage license:
You and your partner must be present with valid photo IDs to apply for a marriage license at the Coconino County Clerk's Office. The fee for a marriage license is $83, and it is valid for a year.
Unfortunately, you cannot reserve the outlook at Horseshoe Bend for your elopement ceremony. It is a public place open to visitors from sunrise to sunset. You will have to share the space with other people who may be there at the same time as you.
How to elope at Horseshoe Bend plateau:
Contact A Guiding Company
To visit the south rim of the Bend, you will need to contact a guide company with access to take you along with the appropriate 4x4 vehicles. A Navajo family privately owns this area, so couples will require their permission and assistance to access it.
Obtain a special use permit:
To obtain a special use permit from the Navajo Indian Tribe, you must complete an application form and submit it with a fee of $100. In addition, you will need to provide a copy of your marriage license, a letter of intent, and a map of the location. You can find more information regarding this permit on their website. It is important to note that you must apply at least 45 days before your elopement date.
What is an elopement like at Horseshoe Bend?
Eloping at Horseshoe Bend is a breathtaking and sometimes exhilarating experience. Couples can recite their vows next to the edge of a sheer cliff, surrounded by red rock and views so vast the sky touches the desert sand.
Horseshoe Bend Elopement Packages
All elopement packages include my travel to anywhere in the United States (no hidden or extra fees!), customized location scouting and research, permit assistance, personalized vendor recommendations, unique-to-you + your location activity suggestions, and a customized elopement timeline for your one of a kind day. Every elopement gallery also includes high-resolution digital images with printing rights and a private online gallery to view, print, download, and share your gallery with your family + friends to relive the day with you!
4 Hour ~ $3000
Perfect for the couples who are wanting to take a more simplistic approach to their elopement day. Typically this package is ideal for capturing getting ready, a short hike to ceremony location, and couples portraits.
8 Hour ~ $5000
Perfect for couples wanting a day of adventure like a long hike, off-roading, or traveling to multiple locations. This package is best for telling the complete story of your elopement day. Typically couple’s who are eloping just the two of them will select this package to document their day for the friends + family who are not in attendance to have that opportunity to experience the day. Also ideal for couples bringing friends + family and would like to have their reception captured as well. Your reception could look like pizza at your airbnb around a fire with your parents + siblings or a private chef serving you a 3 course meal on a table decorated in florals.
12 Hour ~ $7000
Perfect for couples looking for complete coverage of their elopement story. This package offers the ultimate storytelling experience. From waking up and having coffee with your partner to roasting marshmallows on a fire after dawn. Couple’s who are eloping just the two of them will select this package to document their day for the friends + family who are not in attendance to have that opportunity to experience the day. Also ideal for couples bringing friends + family and would like to have their full day with their guests documented.
Multi-Day ~ $9000
Perfect for couples wanting a multi-day experience with a lot of adventure. This package is best if you’re wanting to elope in one epic location and also experience another epic location the following day. An example of this would be booking a multi-day rafting tour, eloping at the base of Horseshoe Bend at your campsite, and having the most epic Colorado River rafting trip!
Where to stay near Horseshoe Bend
Camping:
Lees Ferry Campground
Lone Rock Beach Primitive Camping Area
Stanton Creek Primitive Camping Area
Beehives Campground
Wahweap Campground & RV Park
Bullfrog RV & Campground
Halls Crossing RV & Campground
Antelope Point RV Park
Primitive/Backcountry Camping:
Lake Powell Shoreline Camping
Camping on Lake Powell's shorelines is free except in developed marinas. However, entrance and vessel use fees still apply. Portable toilets are required as burying waste on the beach is forbidden. If you plan to camp on the shoreline, avoid doing so beneath under overhanging rocks. Campfires are allowed below the high water line, and fireworks are illegal.
Colorado River Primitive Camping
There are six primitive camping options available along the Colorado River, between Glen Canyon Dam and Lees Ferry. To access these designated areas, you must travel by boat, and spots are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. The designated areas are marked with signs, and the upriver campsites are equipped with toilets and fire pits for your convenience.
Dispersed Camping throughout Glen Canyon’s Backcountry
Dispersed camping is allowed throughout Glen Canyon's backcountry, except in developed recreation areas. Here are some guidelines:
Leave No Trace
Only light campfires in designated areas
All campsites require a portable toilet
Buy a map beforehand and anchor your boat on a beach at night
No motor vehicles, off-road vehicles, or bicycles in Glen Canyon's roadless areas
It is important to note that fire is restricted to designated areas, and ground fires are prohibited. All burned charcoal from fires must be removed from the area if you choose to use a portable fire pan. It is strictly forbidden to collect wood from the area. All litter and garbage must be appropriately disposed of to maintain the environment's natural beauty.
Given that there is no regular garbage collection, it is the responsibility of visitors to carry out all litter and garbage. Plastic litter bags are free at the ranger station, and garbage disposal dumpsters can be found at the launch ramps.
Ready to Plan Your Horseshoe Bend Elopement?
Horseshoe Bend is a significant landmark that is sacred to many. With its red cliffsides, turquoise water, and remote area, Horseshoe Bend makes for a one-of-a-kind elopement (especially if permitted on the south bend). Whichever you decide, let me help you capture and remember the day forever, as the unique adventure that it is.