Aug 283 min read

Elope at the Bonneville Salt Flats

Shannon White Photography

How to Plan an Elopement on the Utah Salt Flats (Updated 2024)

For a dreamy and elegant elopement, the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah are an ideal choice. Situated just two hours west of Salt Lake City, the journey to this distinctive locale is quite straightforward.

How to get to Utah’s Salt Flats

Accessing the Salt Flats is straightforward! Simply head west from Salt Lake City towards Reno and stay on the highway. The journey to the rest stop takes approximately an hour and a half, and since there are few places to refuel or buy food, it's essential to carry a spare tire, ensure your gas tank is full, and pack some snacks. The westbound rest stop, which is the more frequented spot, allows you to drive on the salt. The flats are expansive, offering plenty of space to set up. However, it's crucial to provide your guests and vendors with precise directions to ensure everyone arrives at the correct location on time. The westbound rest stop also serves as an ideal rendezvous point for groups planning to travel together, complete with facilities for last-minute restroom needs. Depending on your chosen setup location, the drive might be lengthy, so limiting carpooling is advisable to allow for flexible arrivals and departures. Additionally, designating a parking area will help prevent cars from inadvertently appearing in your photographs.

When to Elope at the Utah Salt Flats

Eloping at the Salt Flats is ideal in the summer when the salt is dry, the days are longer, and the weather is warm. The shoulder seasons of spring and fall can also be pleasant, though they may be cooler and less predictable. Winter can work, but rain tends to pool on the salt. If there's heavy rain or snow in Salt Lake, the salt flats will be similar. The reflections can be stunning, but excessive water might be too cold and deep to enjoy. Therefore, summer or fall is generally the best time to elope there.

Permits and Expenses for Eloping on the Salt Flats

As of the date of this blog post, holding a wedding on the Salt Flats does not require a permit or fee, offering a significant budget advantage. Managed by the BLM, the most current information regarding permits can be found on their official website. Note that there is no electricity available, so if you plan to use additional equipment, generators will be your primary expense for powering lights, music, etc. Additionally, the Salt Flats are approximately a two-hour drive from Salt Lake City, so confirming vendor availability and potential travel fees is advisable.

Where to stay when eloping at the Salt Flats

The Salt Flats are conveniently located near the Utah-Nevada border, with Wendover, NV being the nearest town. Just a 15-20 minute drive from the flats, Wendover is a quaint casino town offering several hotels and a couple of restaurants. It's advisable to secure accommodation there following your reception to avoid the two-hour drive back to Salt Lake City after an evening of celebration. Nevertheless, Salt Lake City remains a nearby option, boasting an abundance of hotels and Airbnb listings.

Why the Salt Flats is the perfect Utah Elopement Location

The Bonneville Salt Flats boast a natural beauty that is striking, yet they also serve as a versatile canvas for a multitude of styles and aesthetics. Beyond the majestic mountains that loom in the distance, the expansive salt flats offer a pristine palette for you to project your own ideas and character. For those in search of a distinctive, sophisticated, and enduring backdrop, the Salt Flats are ideal. Embellish them with some fairy lights or flowers, and you have the perfect setting for an unforgettable black-tie affair.