Imagine saying your vows as the sun sets over a wide, shimmering landscape that looks like it belongs on another planet. The Bonneville Salt Flats offer that kind of magic-the open sky, the stillness, and a sense of serenity that makes eloping here feel deeply personal and unforgettable.
Why Couples Love It
There’s something about this place that slows everything down. The vast, white landscape feels almost like time pauses for a moment-and all that’s left is the two of you.
When I photograph couples here, I love creating space for you to just be yourselves-whether that’s running around barefoot across the flats, dancing under the setting sun, or quietly holding each other as the light fades. Every moment feels cinematic because the landscape gives it room to breathe.
It’s one of those rare locations that matches any kind of love story-calm, adventurous, spontaneous, or deeply intimate.
Where it’s Located
The Bonneville Salt Flats are about 1.5 to 2 hours west of Salt Lake City, just off I-80 near Wendover, Utah. The drive itself feels like part of the story-the mountains start to fade behind you, the desert stretches ahead, and then you’re surrounded by endless white light.
Once you turn off onto Bonneville Speedway Road, you can drive right onto the flats. There are no restrooms or facilities, so bring everything you’ll need for your ceremony and pictures-snacks, water, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure.
When to Elope
Each season gives the salt flats a different personality:
〇 Spring (March-May): This is the time you’re most likely to see the flats flooded. A thin layer of water covers the surface after winter snowmelt and spring rain, turning the entire landscape into a giant mirror. It’s absolutely breathtaking-but it can limit where you can walk or drive, since some areas become soft or muddy underneath.
〇 Summer (June-August): It will be hot, dry, and bright. The salt is firm and accessible, but temperatures can rise fast. Sunrise or sunset is best for cooler weather and softer light.
〇 Fall (September-October): Often considered the ideal season to elope here. The temperatures are comfortable, the flats are dry, and the light is warm and golden.
〇 Winter (November-February): Cooler, quiet, and moody. Rain and snow can create beautiful, shallow reflections but also bring soft, muddy patches in some areas.
For the best experience, it’s best to plan for sunrise or sunset on the flats.
Do You Need a Permit?
If you’re keeping things simple, you don’t need a permit to elope or take photos here. But if you’re planning a larger setup-like an arch, florals, or decor-you’ll want to apply for a Special Recreation Permit through the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).
Regardless, please remember to leave no trace. The Salt Flats are fragile and deserve to stay as pure and untouched as they feel.
Where to Stay
Part of what makes a salt flats elopement special is making it an experience, not just a day. There are some incredible stays nearby that pair perfectly with an elopement:
〇 Glamping domes and A-frames near Wendover or Toolee
〇 Luxury Airbnbs with panoramic desert views
〇 West Wendover hotels or casinos for a cozy night in or a celebratory drink after your ceremony
You can even make it a weekend getaway-explore local hot springs, stargaze, or plan a slow morning together before your ceremony.
Many couples choose to include behind-the-scenes of their stay and getting ready in their photography coverage.
Tips for a Smooth Elopement
〇 Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and snacks-there are no nearby facilities.
〇 Avoid driving on wet salt; cars can easily sink.
〇 The ground can be rough-many couples choose to go barefoot, wear boots or sturdy shoes, or a combination of both.
〇 Wind and brightness can change quickly, so be flexible and ready to adapt.
〇 Most importantly, let go of perfection. The beauty of this place lies in its simplicity-and how it lets your connection take center stage.
Why it’s Worth It
Every time I photograph here, I’m reminded how rare it is to find a place that feels this untouched. There’s no noise, no distractions-just two people, the open sky, and light that shifts like a movie scene.
If you’re dreaming of an elopement that feels cinematic, meaningful, and true to who you are, the Bonneville Salt Flats might be the perfect setting to begin your story.
Let’s Create Your Salt Flats Story
If this sounds like your dream, I’d love to help you bring it to life. Whether you want a short, intimate ceremony or a full two-day adventure elopement that captures everything from exploring the flats to celebrating under the stars-I’ll be there to help you create something intentional and unforgettable.
