Capitol Reef National Park is the most under-rated park in all of Utah. With its’ towering cliffs and hidden desert, it is the perfect place to get off the beaten path and marry the love of your life. Capitol Reef is secluded and a good fit if you want a unique and breath-taking elopement experience. There are many fun and unique places to stay (which we will get into in a second), great places to eat, and great backdrops to explore! Visit the Capitol Reef National Park site to learn more of what it has to offer!

Capitol Reef Elopement Photographer

First, a little about me. I’m Hannah, a small wedding and elopement photographer based here in Torrey, Utah. I grew up here, right next to Capitol Reef, and have fallen in love with the many landscapes it has to offer. I enjoy sharing this beautiful place with my couples to have the most amazing elopement experience in the vastness that is Capitol Reef National Park. I know all the little hidden trails and best recommendations to make your day unforgettable.

Places to Stay

Let’s get into it: my top recommendations for places to stay near Torrey, Utah and Capitol Reef National Park. Choosing a place to stay is HARD, especially when a lot of your experience revolves around where you decide make your basecamp while visiting. All of these places offer distinct offerings and experiences that you may want. A lot of these places also have amazing views and could easily be the location of your small wedding/ elopement or just a pretty spot to recharge.

Cabins at Capitol Reef

This place has amazing views and is in the most convenient location. It is right on the edge of Torrey, so it has it’s own seclusion and quietness, but a short drive to town for all the restaurants and only a 10 minute drive to the Capitol Reef Visitor’s Center. There are three different cabins available. One of them even sleeps 16 people! The interior of these cabins can be a great photo spot for getting ready, private vows, or just documenting the small details. The backyard of each cabin is gorgeous and has unique photo opportunities.

Cougar Ridge Resort

Second on the list is just as amazing as #1. Cougar Ridge has tons to offer and is truly spectacular. With casitas, a grand lodge and pavilion available to book, it truly offers everything you need. They have animals to see and pet, a spa, basketball and pickleball court, pool, and all the luxury amenities. They do have great places to hold small ceremonies, or it could also be a great place to relax. It is only about 15 minutes from the Capitol Reef Visitor’s Center and less than 5 minutes to the center of Torrey.

The Skyview Hotel

If you are looking for a more traditional hotel with all the amenities, the Skyview is definitely top of the list. Each room is beautiful and have private hot tubs. There is a rooftop terrace to watch the sunset or stargaze, and amazing red rock views. It is located just on the edge of west Torrey and is extremely close to all the great places to eat. They even have glamping domes if you prefer to stay in something you don’t see every day.

Sand Creek Homestead

With large outdoor spaces and plenty of room for all of your guests, the Sand Creek Homestead is a great option. They have domes, casitas, and an orchard house for great options to stay. There is also an event center and great locations on the property for bridals or a ceremony. It is located outside of Torrey towards Capitol Reef, so it is just a short drive to great locations and all of the amenities in Torrey. It has picturesque views and great spaces to enjoy your time here.

Casitas at Capitol Reef

The Casitas, located right in the town of Torrey, are a great option. They have a motel with fully updated rooms and kitchenettes, as well as several tiny homes. It would be perfect whether you are here just the two of you or bringing a few guests and family. The location can’t get any better. It is within walking distance to several places to eat and a short drive to Capitol Reef National Park.

Ready to Plan Your Elopement?

I hope these recommendations help you find your perfect place to stay when eloping in Capitol Reef National Park. This list is by no means the only great places to stay. There are many more great options in the area! These are just the places I have had first-hand experience with and have great reviews from the couples I have worked with.

If you want are ready to plan your elopement and make it official, reach out and we can plan you perfect day in the desert!