One of the most rewarding Utah elopement experiences is sunrise hiking at Zion’s Canyon Overlook Trail. It’s a very moderate trail which takes less than 30 minutes to complete, making it a high reward hike for low effort. The views along this trail are absolutely stunning. As a bonus, there are nearby slot canyons where you can hide from the crowds and the heat as the sun climbs higher. When Sophia and Mark flew out from New Jersey to elope in Zion, this is exactly what they did!
If you’re considering a Utah elopement, sunrise vows at this overlook trail are a must. Here’s Sophia and Mark’s Zion elopement timeline as an example.
Sophia and Mark’s Sunrise Hiking Vows at Zion’s Canyon Overlook Trail
Like every perfect day, this one started with coffee! Sophia and Mark traveled to Zion in October, when sunrise is a little later in the morning. That meant I had time to stop and grab us all hot coffee for the hike.
The three of us met at the overlook trailhead before sunrise. Coffee in hand, we made it up to the overlook with plenty of time to catch first light. Sophia and Mark took in the views as the sun came up, making the most of the soft morning light for portraits and a quiet vow ceremony, just the two of them. The light was so golden and pretty, and reflected brightly off the canyon walls.
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As a crazy coincidence (and probably sign of good luck) we ran into other hikers on the trail who happened to be from the exact same small New Jersey town as them! We marveled at those chances the entire hike back to the car.
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Late Morning Slot Canyon Hikes with Family and Friends
We arrived back at the car and drove about 10 minutes away to a quiet slot canyon. I love this area because it tends to be empty of other people, making it a great location for low key portraits.
Sophia’s parents met us in the canyon, as well as Mark’s mother and Aunt. We took some family photos and portraits between the red canyon walls, enjoying the serenity of the area. Everyone was super excited exploring the rock features!
Later on, their friends met them at a nearby slot canyon for more group photos and a bit more exploring.
Private Canyon Breakfast Picnic
Between portrait sessions with their family and friends, Sophia and Mark sat down for a break in the sand. They laid a blanket between grasses below the towering canyon walls, and refueled. They snacked on a few treats together, enjoying the warm sun.
Their coverage was focused around their sunrise hiking vows at Zion’s Canyon Overlook Trail, so after the picnic and portraits, we parted ways.
They ended the day with a party at their AirBnB, getting a bit of everything in! Sophia and Mark’s timeline is also the perfect example of how to creatively use photography coverage to your advantage.
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The content on this blog was written and curated by Mariah Arianna, copywriter and content blogger for photographers