Have you been dreaming of exchanging your vows in a place where earth meets the sky and has THE MOST surreal landscape you’ve ever seen? Then a Salt Flats elopement is for you! With the endless white space contrasted by the surrounding mountains, the Salt Flats will be a backdrop like no other for your day!
Why Elope at the Bonneville Salt Flats?
The Salt Flats offer a surreal, almost alien-like backdrop with their endless white expanse and mirage-like reflections. This otherworldly landscape is a result of the ancient Lake Bonneville, which once covered much of the area. As the lake dried up, it left behind thick layers of salt crust, creating what we now know as the Salt Flats. There’s literally nothing like this anywhere else!
Best Time to Elope at the Salt Flats
Summer is the perfect season for a Salt Flats elopement. The dry conditions ensure you can drive on the flats without worrying about getting stuck. Aim for a sunrise or sunset ceremony to avoid the harsh midday sun and heat, which can make the ground unbearably hot and lead to squinty eyes in your photos. Sunrise and sunset also provide the most stunning lighting for your ceremony and pictures. But check those times beforehand because they can be surprisingly early or later than you think!
When choosing your elopement day, consider a mid-week date to avoid crowds and steer clear of Speed Week when the area can be particularly busy. Also, bring loads of water and SPF – you’ll need it!
While summer is the best time, you can get married here during any season. Summer is considered the dry season, but there’s also the wet season (November to May) which has a completely different, yet still stunning vibe! You will also be unable to drive on the Salt Flats when it’s wet and some spots can get a bit dangerous, but if you’re staying cautious and know where to go – the watery reflections are beautiful!
Legal Requirements for Your Salt Flats Elopement
Firstly, you’ll need a Utah marriage license! The Tooele County Clerk’s office, nearest the Bonneville Salt Flats, provides an online application process. This makes it very convenient and easy, especially if traveling here for a destination elopement. You can also get legally married in whichever state you’re in to avoid the hassle!
If you choose to get legally married right there at the Salt Flats, you’ll need an officiant and two witnesses to sign your marriage license. If you don’t want to bring any guests, I’d happily be one of your witnesses and we can always find a passer-by for the second signature!
Permit Requirements
You need a Special Use Permit to elope at the Salt Flats. You can learn more about the permits here!
Where to Stay?
I recommend staying at the Above the Flats Airbnb. This location offers luxury accommodations and is just five minutes from the Bonneville Speedway Road entrance, which is a convenient entrance spot to start your adventure. This Airbnb can comfortably host your entire family if you choose to bring them along, and has some really stunning backdrops for your getting-ready photos.
Final Salt Flats Elopement Planning Tips
Some final things to consider if you’re planning to elope here:
- Get a 4-wheel drive car, but keep it midsized to navigate the flats more easily.
- While rather easily accessible, the Salt Flats are remote, so make sure you pack everything you need! You should grab some snacks and water. And don’t forget the SPF!
- The salt will get EVERYWHERE, so embrace it as part of your unique elopement experience. You may want to take a bag to put your shoes in once you are ready to head back. But even with that, you’ll still most likely bring back a lot of salt.
- When choosing your wedding attire, choose attire suitable for warm, sunny conditions. Go for lightweight and breathable fabrics for your suit/dress!
- You can go barefoot, but keep in mind that salt can harm your feet and be very exfoliating!
Leave the Planning and Photographing Your Salt Flats Elopement to Me!
As your elopement photographer, I’m here to help with all the planning! From securing permits to logistics, I’ve got you covered. My happy place is taking care of all the details so you can focus on enjoying your unforgettable Salt Flats elopement. Let’s make your dream day stress-free and absolutely stunning!
Check out my portfolio here! When you’re ready, reach out to me here, and let’s plan your big day together!
Special Shoutout
Vintage Car – Utah Vintage Cars
Florals – Ivie Floral Co
