The Superstition Mountains, with their jagged rocky peaks, winding canyons, unique rock formations, and valleys sprinkled with Saguaro Cactuses, are an incredible place for adventurous couples to tie the knot! You’ll find adventures like rock climbing, hiking, and more, all just east of Phoenix, Arizona. This guide will tell you everything you need to know to plan a Superstition Mountain elopement, and how to tie the knot here!
The Best Time to for a Superstition Mountain Elopement
One of the first things you’ll need to do as you start planning your elopement is decide when to get married. The Superstition Mountains are a desert climate, which means it can get hot in the summer!
Unlike most mountain elopement locations in the US, I wouldn’t recommend a summer Superstition Mountain wedding, because temperatures can get over 100 degrees during the day, which isn’t most couples’ idea of ideal weather! But, if you want to plan an adventure for sunrise or sunset, it does get significantly cooler.
Spring is a great time to elope, because the weather is warm and sunny, and if there’s been enough rainfall, the desert wildflowers bloom! It’s a truly beautiful sight, decorating the landscape in different colors.
Though the Superstition Mountains don’t have much fall foliage, fall is a good time to elope as well, because the temperatures are much more manageable than the summer heat. This area doesn’t get much of a winter, because daytime temperatures usually stay in the 60s!
November through April is typically going to be the best time for a Superstition Mountain elopement, because the weather is much more comfortable, and perfect for outdoor adventures! Make sure you have plenty of water and sunscreen, and bring some layers, because it does get chilly at night.
The Best Superstition Mountain Elopement Venues
Getting married in the Superstition Mountains means choosing from some pretty incredible backdrops, and exchanging vows surrounded by the beauty of the outdoors! There are lots of gorgeous places to tie the knot, so here are some ideas for the best Superstition Mountain elopement “venues.”
Lost Dutchman State Park
Lost Dutchman State Park sits at the base of the Superstition Mountains, and is a gorgeous place for an elopement. There are lots of hiking trails to choose from, and lots of wildlife to spot, including mule deer, coyotes, javelinas, and jackrabbits. In the spring, you might even get to see the desert blanketed in wildflowers! The Lost Dutchman Treasure Loop Trail is a 2.3 mile hike that takes you around the base of Flatiron mountain, and through gorgeous views of the surrounding Superstition Mountains.
A Hiking Trail
Throughout the Superstition Mountains, there are plenty of incredible hikes! Whether you’re looking for a short walk or a challenge on your elopement day, there’s a hike for you.
Here are a few hikes to consider:
- Wave Cave Trail (3 miles) – a steep climb takes you to a unique rock formation that really does look like a wave! This one is really popular, so consider coming here at sunset.
- Boulder Canyon (10 miles, but can be shortened) – this is a stunning hike that takes you through gorgeous desert scenery surrounded by mountains.
- Fremont Saddle Peralta Canyon Trail (4.6 miles) – a moderate hike that ends in a viewpoint of the iconic Weaver’s Needle.
Finding the Perfect Superstition Mountain Elopement Location
As an elopement photographer, part of my job is finding the perfect ceremony location for each couple! You and your love story are one of a kind, so the ideal location for you is unique too. I’ll get to know you, what kind of views you want, whether you want to hike a little or a lot or not at all, and give you a list of options!
Things to Do When You Elope in the Superstition Mountains
One of the best reasons to elope in the Superstition Mountains is all the adventures you can have in the desert! Eloping is all about doing whatever you want and starting your marriage off in a way that feels true to you – so here are some ideas for things to do when you tie the knot.
Horseback Riding
There are several stables and corrals that offer horseback riding on the trails of the Superstition Mountains, and this can be a unique adventure and a fun way to enjoy the scenery! There are also plenty of trails where you can bring your own horses, if you want them to be a part of your elopement day.
Off Roading
Renting a 4×4, or booking a guided tour, is a great way to see more of the desert, without having to hike! This can get you to some beautiful remote places, and can even be a good way to find the perfect elopement location in the mountains.
Ziplining
Imagine soaring over the desert, getting a bird’s eye view of the scenery! The Superstition Zipline lets you do just that, and is truly a one of a kind experience for your wedding day.
Camping
If the two of you love being outside, camping can be a fun way to celebrate your elopement day! There are campgrounds in the Superstition Mountains, as well as some options for dispersed camping. If you want to be close to nature but don’t want to totally rough it, Lost Dutchman State Park has some cabins available!
Rock Climbing
Yes, you can absolutely go rock climbing on your wedding day! There are bouldering and trad climbing routes throughout the Superstition Mountains, and if the two of you love climbing, this is a great place to do it.
Ready for a Superstition Mountain Elopement?
If you dream of a wedding day where you make the rules, and one that’s as unique as your love, eloping in the Superstition Mountains is the perfect way to make that dream a reality. I’ll be your guide through it all, from finding the perfect location to making a timeline to recommending vendors, places to stay, and more. And of course, I’ll be there to document it all and take photos that will remind you of this day for years to come!
If you’re ready to plan your one of a kind elopement in the Superstition Mountains, contact me!
