The Best Outdoor Wedding Venues in Utah:
If you’re looking for the best outdoor wedding venue that gives elopement vibes, but allows a full wedding with your friends and family, look no further.
When it comes to stunning landscapes and unforgettable settings, Utah is an incredible state for incredible outdoor wedding venues. Whether you envision exchanging vows with dramatic cliffs as your backdrop or a serene mountain lodge setting, this state offers an array of magical options. Here are some of the best outdoor wedding venues in Utah that will make your special day truly unforgettable.
1. Louland Falls
Nestled in the picturesque Parley’s Canyon, Louland Falls is an outdoor venue that offers a dramatic backdrop of rugged red rock cliffs and cascading waterfalls. This venue combines natural beauty with elegance, making it ideal for couples who want a touch of grandeur. This outdoor venue has indoor and outdoor spaces available, and Louland Falls accommodates up to 300 guests. The breathtaking scenery and impeccable service make this venue a favorite for nature-loving couples. Louland Falls is an outdoor Utah venue that books up quickly! So don’t wait if you’re interested in this venue.
Why I love Louland Falls wedding venue as a wedding photographer:
-Scenery: The scenery at Louland Falls is gorgeous, with mountain overlooks, and steps leading up to a waterfall. Summer weddings are amazing to hold outdoors, and use the indoor space as overflow if needed. For the best photography at Louland Falls, utilizing the outdoor space as much as possible is my recommendation.
-Their team: The team at Louland Falls is so nice and helpful! As a wedding photographer, they have always welcomed me, helped me with details I needed, and been a great vendor to work with. More importantly, they take amazing care of the couples who hire me.
Here are some of my favorite photos from a June wedding at Louland Falls:
Wedding Ceremony at Louland Falls, one of Utah’s best outdoor wedding venues
Louland Falls is a great outdoor venue in Utah, and has the following perks:
-Gorgeous ceremony space with mountain backdrop
-Alcohol is allowed (cash or open bar)
-Great assistance from the owners to ensure your day goes well
-Beautiful mountain and earthy backdrops for photos
-Multiple waterfalls
-Bride AND groom room for getting ready
-Indoor overflow space
This stunning wedding venue books up FAST, so I recommend inquiring with them early.
The Getting Ready area at Louland Falls:
2. Cliff Lodge at Snowbird
Located in Little Cottonwood Canyon, the Cliff Lodge at Snowbird offers unparalleled views of the Wasatch Mountains. The rooftop Sky Room is a standout feature, providing panoramic vistas that are particularly stunning at sunset. Perfect for both intimate ceremonies and larger celebrations, this venue’s proximity to world-class resorts means your guests can enjoy a mountain retreat. The Cliff Lodge is a stunning spot for a luxurious wedding that feels both intimate and adventurous.
Outdoor wedding venue at Snowbird
They also do amazing things in the summer, so if your guests stay longer, they can purchase tickets to Snowbird summer activities and do the alpine slides, mountain coaster, trampolines, and other fun activities. (My kids think it’s better than Disneyland.)
Why I love Cliff Lodge at Snowbird as a wedding photographer:
What makes Cliff Lodge one of the best wedding venues in Utah? The ceremony views, cocktail hour and reception ambiance, the proximity of everything for your couple AND their guests. You’re also in the mountains with scenery all around you.
M + J’s wedding was an all day event and included an after party at the rooftop spa. They had THE most amazing wedding planner (Blondie events), and we are so fortunate we got to document their wedding with photo and video.
Perks of having your wedding at Snowbird venue:
-Includes hotel suites for bride and groom getting ready
-Ability to have an after party at the rooftop pool
-Stunning backdrop of mountains
-Other activities for guests at the resort
-Close proximity to gorgeous forestry for photos
Indoor space of Cliff Lodge Venue at Snowbird:
Beautiful indoor reception area at Cliff Lodge
3. Silver Fork Lodge
For a cozy and rustic mountain vibe, Silver Fork Lodge in Big Cottonwood Canyon is a gorgeous Utah wedding venue. This historic lodge is surrounded by towering pines and offers a tranquil, intimate setting for weddings. The venue specializes in smaller gatherings, with options to host your ceremony on their outdoor deck overlooking the canyon. Known for their delicious cuisine, Silver Fork Lodge also provides customizable menus that highlight locally sourced ingredients. It’s a hidden gem perfect for couples seeking a relaxed yet beautiful mountain celebration. I have absolutely LOVED the weddings I have photographed here.
Why I love Silver Fork Lodge as an outdoor venue from a photographer perspective:
-Breathtaking backdrop, particularly in the fall. You get the intimate feel of the mountains up the canyon, yet can still host an incredible party. The colors at Silver Fork with the aspens and pines make it a great venue for wedding photos.
-A spacious outdoor area for dinner and speeches in a separate area from the ceremony. All of it feels SO cozy and unpretentious. This outdoor venue gives you the option to have an open bar, and Silver Fork Lodge has great catering options, as the lodge is also a restaurant.
-Close to other outdoor spots that are amazing for portraits. There are also beautiful air bnbs up Big Cottonwood Canyon, which are perfect for getting ready and hanging with your wedding party.
Perks of having your wedding at Silver Fork Lodge:
-Stunning backdrop up the canyon with gorgeous aspen trees and pines
-Laid back but can feel upscale without feeling pretentious
-Intimate and cozy feel with plenty of outdoor space
-Alcohol is allowed (open or cash bar)
-Delicious catering options
-The couple can stay at the lodge overnight
This outdoor Utah venue is up Big Cottonwood Canyon. Silver Fork Lodge is an outdoor wedding venue, restaurant, and lodge, and provides amazing service.
The lodge for dancing
Silver Fork Lodge wedding venue in Utah
4. Wasatch Mountain Lodge
The Wasatch Mountain Lodge, located near Brighton Ski Resort, is a gorgeous outdoor venue in Utah with a rich history. Built in the early 20th century, this rustic lodge offers a spacious outdoor area for ceremonies and an indoor hall for receptions. The lodge is surrounded by lush forests and provides a breathtaking backdrop of the Wasatch Mountains. This outdoor Utah venue is between Silver Fork Lodge and Park City up Big Cottonwood Canyon. With its laid-back charm and versatile spaces, this Utah outdoor venue is perfect for couples wanting a DIY approach to their wedding while embracing the natural beauty of Utah.
Forest Outdoor Wedding Venue in Utah - Wasatch Mountain Lodge
5. Mandan Summit at Sundance Mountain Resort
While I haven’t photographed a wedding at Mandan Summit, I hear it is another stunning Utah venue that gives the same outdoor ambiance as the others. This outdoor venue gives you dining and lodging options so that you can host a full wedding on site.
Why Choose Utah for Your Outdoor Wedding?
Utah’s diverse landscapes—ranging from towering mountains to red rock deserts—offer something for every couple’s vision. Many venues in the state prioritize eco-friendly practices and customizable packages, ensuring your day is as unique as your love story. Whether you’re a local or planning a destination wedding, these venues provide the perfect blend of convenience, beauty, and unforgettable memories.
When planning your wedding in Utah, it’s important to consider the season and weather. Spring and fall often provide the most comfortable temperatures for outdoor ceremonies, while summer and winter each have their own unique charms depending on your venue choice.
As a wedding photographer, an outdoor wedding venue is the best option, and I personally LOVE the venues with natural forestry and mountain landscapes. These all give you the best experience while providing a scenic outdoor wedding experience.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right venue sets the tone for your wedding day, and Utah’s outdoor locations offer some of the most enchanting backdrops in the world. From the cascading waterfalls at Louland Falls to the alpine serenity of Mandan Summit, these venues cater to a wide range of styles and preferences. No matter which you choose, your wedding is sure to be an unforgettable celebration of love within Utah’s breathtaking natural beauty.
Datura Photo
Wedding and adventure elopement photographers and videographers in Utah and the PNW (and will travel anywhere!)
We LOVE love, and would be honored to photograph your outdoor Utah wedding <3