How to Elope in Joshua Tree National Park
YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SAYING “I DO” IN THE HIGH DESERT
Many wedding trends have changed over the years but one that still remains is planning to elope in Joshua Tree National Park! It’s no surprise that many couples have chosen this gorgeous national park to say “I do” and we have been lucky here at BBP to have celebrated with so many couples inside of the park.
If you are thinking about planning your Joshua Tree elopement than you’ve landed in the right place because we are going to break down all of the steps you need to take for an incredible elopement.
One of our favorite officiants Trish of The Walk Down the Aisle is a great addition to your elopement day.
Step 1: Apply for Your Permit
Our favorite part about eloping inside the national park is that there really isn’t much to it except for filling out your permits and getting them approved. You can visit their website here and you’ll be directed to fill out the appropriate forms and the $120 fee. Talk about an affordable wedding, right?!
Step 2: Book Your Airbnb
While you’re waiting for your permit to process you’ll want to find the cutest Airbnb in the high desert so you can spend the whole weekend celebrating. Most of the community in Yucca Valley and Joshua Tree is very quiet and has a “middle of nowhere” kind of vibe so you can truly relax and spend quality time with those you love.
You can jump on Airbnb to find tons of affordable homes to spend the weekend! There are also a handful of properties that we love such a Nowhere: A Desert Social Club, Echo Ranch House, or The Joshua Tree House.
If you are planning a destination elopement and plan on flying in you’ll want to keep in mind that the closest airport is Palm Springs International Airport which is about a 1 hour and 15 minute drive away. You’ll need to rent a car to get up the mountain but it’s a quick + easy drive and is well worth it.
Step 3: Secure Your Vendors
Planning an elopement is so much easier compared to a full size wedding because there really are only a couple of steps to take and vendors you need to bring the day to life. Since you’re here at Brianna Broyles Photography you’ve already found the perfect photography and videography package - inquire about our pricing here!
Here are some of the other vendors you’ll need and people we highly recommend:
Officiant: The Walk Down the Aisle, The Vow Keeper, or Let’s Get Married by Marie
Florist: The Blooming Gypsy, David Rohr Studio, or Cultivated By Faith
Step 4: Choose Your Location
It’s no joke when we say Joshua Tree National Park is absolutely massive and there are so many gorgeous locations to choose from. Our team has photographed elopements all over the park and our favorite part is that you can choose one location for your ceremony but make a couple of stops at other attractions for photos.
Some of our favorite official locations within the park with a parking lot and accessibility for people to walk down a path include Cap Rock, Hidden Valley Picnic Area, Quail Springs Picnic Area, Indian Cove Campgrounds, or Split Rock.
The one downfall about the national park is that there is only one road in and one road out and there is absolutely no cell service once you enter. You’ll want to be sure to choose a specific location to meet, have a map, and maybe even take a practice trip if you plan on having guests attend.
BONUS
Technically Pioneer Town isn’t near or inside Joshua Tree National Park but it’s a quirky option to consider while you’re in the high desert. You’ll find Pioneer Town about 25 minutes away and it’s an old movie set that’s fun to explore at least while you’re visiting for the weekend!
Step 5: It’s Time to Get Married
Now that you’ve taken all of the steps to plan your perfect elopement in Joshua Tree National Park it’s time to do the thing and make your commitment to the love of your life. On the day-of you’ll want to plan extra time for travel so that you aren’t rushed and can actually enjoy every second of your wedding day.
Let’s get you married!
Step 6: Celebrate With the Best Sunset
After you’ve said “I do” and are officially husband and wife you’ll want to spend time capturing lots of photos with friends, family or just with your partner! The sunset is Joshua Tree is absolutely breathtaking and our favorite lookout with the best view is Key’s View. We promise it’s a view you’ll never forget.
You’ve followed all of our steps to a perfect Joshua Tree elopement and now all you need to do is book your photography package. Reach out and say hello so we can chat all about your elopement day!