After seven years of adventures together, Jennifer and Dan decided it was time to make it official — their way. They traded a big, traditional wedding for a quiet, heartfelt elopement surrounded by nature and the golden glow of fall in Big Cottonwood Canyon. Their ceremony took place under the yellow aspen trees at Jordan Pines Campground with a beautiful mountain view. This is one of the most picturesque spots in the canyon, and it couldn’t have been more perfect.

A Weekend Getaway in the Mountains

To make the experience even more special, Jennifer and Dan rented a cozy cabin in Brighton for the weekend. Nestled among the evergreens and just a short drive from their ceremony spot. The cabin became their little mountain hideaway — a place to unwind, share coffee in the crisp morning air, and soak in the excitement of the day ahead.

Eloping Under the Golden Aspen Trees

If you’ve ever driven through Big Cottonwood Canyon in late September or early October, you know how magical it is. The canyon bursts into color as the aspen leaves turn brilliant shades of yellow and gold, creating a breathtaking canopy of light. Jennifer and Dan found the perfect patch of trees at Jordan Pines Campground, where soft mountain light filtered through the leaves and the quiet rustle of the wind made their vows feel even more meaningful.

Their ceremony was simple and emotional — just the two of them, surrounded by nature. After exchanging rings, they took a walk through the aspen grove, laughing and reminiscing about their seven years together.

Why Jordan Pines Campground Is the Perfect Elopement Spot

Jordan Pines is one of the most popular photo locations in Utah for a reason — it offers everything from open meadows to pine forests to stunning mountain views. It’s accessible year-round, but fall truly transforms it into something extraordinary. For couples planning an Utah mountain elopement, it’s the ideal blend of adventure and intimacy without having to hike for miles to find a view.

A few reasons couples love this spot:

• Easy access — located just 20 minutes from Salt Lake City.
• Scenic variety — pine trees, aspens, and mountain peaks all in one place.
• Perfect lighting — soft, even light throughout the canyon, especially during golden hour.
• Romantic privacy — plenty of secluded spots for intimate ceremonies.

Tips for Planning

Timing: Visit in late September through early October for peak fall color.

Permits: Check the U.S. Forest Service website for photography and wedding permit details.

Parking: Arrive early, especially on weekends, as this location is popular with hikers and photographers.

Weather: Bring layers — temperatures drop quickly once the sun sets.

Stay Local: Renting a cabin in Brighton or Solitude makes the day feel more relaxed and romantic.

The Beauty of Keeping It Simple

Jennifer and Dan’s day was a beautiful reminder that you don’t need a big wedding to have a meaningful celebration. What matters most is the emotion, the story, and the love that brought you there. From cozy cabin mornings to vows under golden aspens, their Utah mountain elopement. Having their elopement at Jordan Pines Campground was the perfect reflection of their relationship- adventurous, grounded, and spontaneous!

As a Utah elopement photographer, my goal is to help couples like Jennifer and Dan create and remember days that feel true to them. Whether it’s exploring the trails of Big Cottonwood Canyon or finding a quiet meadow in the aspens, I’ll guide you every step of the way — from timelines and permits to posing and portraits. Your elopement deserves to feel intentional, effortless, and unforgettable.

• Instagram
• Facebook
• Link