Grand Canyon
Proposal & Elopement Photography
Best Times to Get Married or engaged at Grand Canyon
There is nowhere I would rather be than here. I moved to Grand Canyon in 2009. At first I sold the mule tours and later became a tour guide. I was even the Grand Canyon Conservancy's photographer for 5 years. Today, I balance business and pleasure. I know this place so so well that it seems only natural that I work mainly here. I feel like I know every single rock and I can also tell you how old it is and how to look for it's fossils, too :)
winter related travel
Right now, Grand Canyon wedding permits are really on top of it. I've had a lot of requests answered last minute. If you are not doing paperwork at the canyon, you will not be required to have a permit and can have your symbolic ceremony anywhere that the public is allowed. If you want to be legally married at Grand Canyon, you'll have to fill out this permit and email it to grca_permits_mail@nps.gov.
Wedding Permits at Grand Canyon
There isn't much of a down season these days. I remember when the winter used to feel like that movie, "The Shining". The hotels we worked for would be only too happy to give us the time off so they could give hours to other workers. It's not quite like that today but it is still nice and quiet in wintertime.
I would recommend not letting this stop you but planning accordingly. Have water, blanket and food with you in case. Always be completely full on gas, ice scraper and a shovel or something to clear snow is a good idea if you are parking there overnight or if there is any chance that you could become snowed in.
Though weather at the canyon can fluctuate a lot and some years are drier than others, usually February and March are our snowiest month. The highs are in the low 50s but the lows are about 25 degrees.
Historic temps/precipitation levels are here: https://www.nps.gov/grca/learn/nature/weather.htm
And current weather conditions will be here.
These webcams can also be helpful:
ALL ROADS IN NORTHERN AZ can and have closed in snow.
PROPOSALS:
For proposals, I usually choose a location that is smaller and gets less visitation. For other photographers, creating this kind of experience could be hard but for me it's not. I spend more than half of my time at Grand Canyon and have for the last 15 years. My friends are Pink Jeep tour guides and Park Service front gate staff. In my spare time I am on the trail for preventative search and rescue. What this means for you is that I understand the ebb and flow of visitation and how it fluxuates. This allows me to pick quieter locations that get a great sunrise or sunset no matter what the season.
THE PLAN:
I choose a location that is quieter than most. It will have a smaller parking area so that I can identify you by the make and model and color of the vehicle. When I see you arrive, i get out of my truck and walk to the best spot in that moment in time, take a bunch of obvious selfies and walk away, this is your indication to move into that location and propose.
There are other plans as well, but this works and I just "hide" in plain sight like any other tourist with a camera around my neck.
WEDDINGS: Although you can only get married at one of the permitted locations at Grand Canyon, you can take photos in your wedding clothing anywhere that you like. This allows us to move around and get a lot of variety for your wedding. I usually like to add some different "storytelling" bits like: last minute touches looking in a mirror on the rim of the canyon, first looks, gifting, re-writing vows in booklets, champagne and cupcakes.
What locATION TO PROPOSE OR HOST YOUR GRAND CANYON WEDDING?
Spring (March - May)
Crowds: Spring is a great time to visit as the crowds are still moderate, especially before school breaks.
Activities: Perfect weather for hiking and exploring. Wildflowers begin to bloom, adding color to the canyon's landscape. It's also a good time to catch the first glimpses of spring wildlife.
Tip: Bring layers, as temperatures can vary greatly between day and night.
Summer (June - August)
Crowds: Summer is peak tourist season, so the South Rim is very busy, especially during July and August. Expect larger crowds, higher hotel prices, and crowded viewpoints.
Activities: Perfect for taking a heli-tour or river rafting in the Colorado River. The cooler mornings and evenings are ideal for hiking, though remember to carry water and sunscreen during the heat of the day.
Tip: Start hikes early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the intense midday heat, especially if hiking into the canyon.
Fall (September - November)
Crowds: While the crowds thin out compared to summer, October can still see a moderate influx of visitors, especially around the fall foliage (mid-October).
Activities: Great for hiking, photography, and enjoying the colorful fall foliage, particularly around the Kaibab Plateau and along the rim. Wildlife, such as elk, is more active during this time.
Tip: Fall offers a great mix of good weather and fewer crowds—bring a jacket for the cool evenings and mornings.
Winter (December - February)
Crowds: Winter is the least crowded season, offering a peaceful and serene experience. Some facilities may have limited hours or be closed.
Activities: Ideal for winter photography and enjoying the snow-covered canyon views. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are available in the park. Hiking is also possible but may require extra caution due to icy conditions.
Tip: Dress warmly and check trail conditions, as snow and ice can make hiking challenging. Be prepared for winter weather, and be sure to check for any closures before your visit.
Where to Stay at Grand CAnyon
EL TOVAR
Run by Xanterra Company
A historic lodge built in 1905
Most expensive
All different kinds of rooms and prices range
Only 3 view suits - even though this is on the edge of Grand Canyon, it was built perpendicular to the canyon to get people out of their rooms, so many don't have views
Hard parking, might have to park across the train tracks and walk up stairs, can park in the circle in front of the lodge first and have luggage brought to the room
Lunch and dinner require reservations here are hit or miss, breakfast is outstanding. Breakfast no reservation required.
KATCHINA LODGE
Run by Xanterra Company
Check in is El Tovar
Expensive but good views
Ugly on the outside
Hard parking, might have to park across the train tracks and walk up stairs, can park in the circle infront of the lodge first and have luggage brought to the room
Easy to walk to El Tovar or Bright Angel for food
BRIGHT ANGEL LODGE
Run by Xanterra company
Historic hotel
Individual cabins with cute personality
On the rim of the canyon
A chance at a view on some select cabins
3 suits are very history, Bucky O'Neill cabin is the oldest building at the South Rim
Food in the lodge is terrible/ food at AZ room (steakhouse attached) is good but requires reservations
MASWIK LODGE
Run by Xanterra company
Sits away from the canyon but canyon can we walked to in about 8 minutes
New hotel, same checkin and restaurant area
Cafeteria inside with - pasta, Mexican, American sandwiches, grab and go and breakfast
Pizza pub also inside - can get pizza by the slice and I think it's pretty decent (I am from NJ, so says a lot)
Not sure how the rooms are, hotel was just rebuilt 2023
YAVAPAI LODGE
Run by Delaware North Company
Newer seeming hotel with two different looks
I think this is the only hotel that offers per friendly inside the park
Might be less expensive than the Xanterra properties
Sits away from the canyon - there is a trail across the road between the Park Headquarters and Shrine of the ages. You can walk to the rim in 15-20 minutes from there you could go left and make it to El Tovar in 3/4s of a mile or right and go to yavapai Geology Museum.
Also easy to walk to the Visitor Center and Mather Point from this lodge
Lodge has great Starbucks-like coffee, some grab and go items
Buffet style breakfast, cafeteria style dinner and lunch
Yavapai Pub - beer and burgers, nice outdoor seating even in the off season
Music outside some nights
6 MILES OUTSIDE THE PARK - TUSAYAN
RED FEATHER LODGE
Family owned
Somewhat newly renovated
No food on site
CANYON PLAZA RESORT
Family owned
Very beautiful indoor courtyard/atrium
Indoor hot tub /outside pool and hot tub
Restaurant inside, never eaten at
Separate bar inside, pretty nice
Never seen a room myself
SEVEN MILE LODGE
Wasss family run - just sold
Was first come/first served and no reservations but not sure what they are going to do with it now
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS
Small Holiday Inn
Small pool indoors
Rooms are standardly what you expect from Holiday inn Express
GRAND. CANYON SQUIRE INN
Run by Delaware North
Super nice property
Outdoor and indoor pools
Big chess, bar outside, Cornhole, pingpong, bowling indoors, air hockey and arxhade, movies in the indoor pool, music outside some nights
Just acquired by Delaware North things are changing quickly and I'm sure the whole place will get a nice makeover
THE GRAND
Run by Xanterra
Inside pool
Okay restaurant
Nice lobby gift store area
No idea what rooms are looking like
Q: What other things should I know about vacationing at the Grand Canyon South Rim?
Q: What are the top 3 things to do at the Grand Canyon South Rim?
Q: Where should I eat near the Grand Canyon South Rim?
Q: Where should I stay near the Grand Canyon South Rim?
Q: What’s the weather like at the Grand Canyon South Rim?
Q: Can I 4x4 at the Grand Canyon South Rim?
Q: What is the easiest way to get to the Grand Canyon South Rim?
Q: How much will a wedding at the Grand Canyon South Rim cost?
Q: How to get started planning an elopement at the Grand Canyon South Rim?
Q: What are the rules for weddings at the Grand Canyon South Rim?
Weddings at the South Rim require a permit from the National Park Service (NPS). You’ll also need an Arizona marriage license (no waiting period or residency requirement). Officiants can be religious leaders, judges, or friends ordained online.
You are not allowed to set anything up like arches or alters. All flowers must be handheld. The only location that allows catering and a reception is Shoshone Point. The use of amplified sounds is not allowed so you'll have to hire acoustic musicians - I have you covered.
Q: What are the rules for weddings at the Grand Canyon South Rim?
First, I would ask your photographer for recommendations on the permit location. Unless one of the permit locations is particularly meaningful to you, some are better for sunrise or sunset and some are vulnerable to road closures during snowstorms in the winter months.
Next, apply for a wedding permit from the NPS. Next, secure an officiant and your marriage license. You can opt for a wedding package that includes permits, flowers, and photography, or handle the details independently.
Special Use Permits are granted for specific periods of time and specific locations. Certain fees and insurance requirements may apply.
Q: How to get started planning an elopement at the Grand Canyon South Rim?
The cost of a wedding at the South Rim can range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the size and complexity of your ceremony. Basic permits start around $100, but additional costs for services, photography, and other add-ons can increase the price.
Q: How much will a wedding at the Grand Canyon South Rim cost?
The closest major airport is Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG) (about 1.5 hours away). Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) (about 3.5 hours away) is another option. You can also fly into Las Vegas (4-5 hours away) and drive to the park.
Q: What is the easiest way to get to the Grand Canyon South Rim?
Summer (June-August) can be hot, with temps reaching 90°F (32°C), while winter (December-February) can be cold, with snow and temps around 20-40°F (-6°C to 4°C). Spring and fall (55-75°F/13-24°C) are ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.
Keep in mind that Grand Canyon is a vertical mile deep and if you are going to do any hiking, the bottom of the canyon will be 20 degrees warmer than the South Rim.
Q: What’s the weather like at the Grand Canyon South Rim?
Stay in Grand Canyon Village for easy access to the park’s viewpoints. El Tovar Hotel is historic and upscale. For a more rustic experience, try Bright Angel Lodge or camp at Mather Campground. Nearby, Tusayan has additional lodging options.
My favorite hotel is the Squire Inn in Tusayan, there are indoor and outdoor pools and hottubs, a game room with foosball and pool, a bar and bowling alley.
Q: Where should I stay near the Grand Canyon South Rim?
Hike the South Kaibab or Bright Angel Trails for iconic canyon views.
Watch the sunrise/sunset at viewpoints like Yaki Point and Hopi Point.
Take a scenic helicopter tour for a unique experience.
What are the top 3 things to do at the Grand Canyon South Rim?
What other locations and adventures should I consider?
The park is large, so plan ahead for parking and allow time for sightseeing. Summer can be crowded, so visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds. Always stay hydrated and wear proper hiking shoes for trails.
What other things should I know about vacationing at the Grand Canyon South Rim?
YOU'RE MY PERSON IF you want an intentional and meaningful experience
YOU'RE MY PERSON IF you want to feel small in an epic landscape
You're my person if you want to be immersed in the moment
I go above and beyond just photographing your moments. Depending on who you are and what experience you want to feel, I am going to call in my team. I am your cupcake wrangler, musician talent scout, we are going to do things in a leave no trace way that fills your soul with light and love.
This is so much more than photography.
Francisco Vargas
Let me start off by stating, we are not people who usually leave reviews but this is one worth leaving !
Terri is AMAZING! I contacted her via her website and she responded ASAP, after asking her some initial questions I hired her on the spot. We coordinated all the details and when the moment came to pop-the-question she captured truly genuine photos that captured the magic of the moment. I am eternally grateful to have hired Terri to capture this core memory. Thank you, Terri! Thanks to you the Grand Canyon holds a special place in our hearts.
Truly cannot express how grateful I am to have had Terri as my photographer. She suggested a perfect spot, and the photos were stunning. She did a great job of getting so many different angles and I loved how many fun shots she took. Mine was a proposal shoot and I am so glad she took the time to give advice / pro tips to make the actual kneeling proposal moment lovely, which went a long way towards calming the nerves and making sure it went smoothly. Highly recommend booking Terri!
-Riley Miller
Megan Mitchell
Run, don't walk, to have Terri as your photographer! Literally could not imagine a better experience. Terri made my now husband and me feel comfortable in front of the camera, and she also listened if we had any special requests. She is a mastermind behind the lens, and so easy to work with.
My husband and I have had multiple friends tell us our engagement and wedding photos are the most beautiful, naturally edited, and unique photos they've ever seen.
If you are planning on having your small event outdoors, you have found your photographer! She knows how to work with light, she knows how to pose you, she thinks about how you'll look in photos, and she works fast. Could not recommend her more!
My partner (now my husband) surprised me with a proposal at the Grand Canyon, and Terri was our photographer. It was truly amazing and highly professional. She suggested the perfect spot for the proposal and knew every corner to capture stunning photos. Our friends and family absolutely loved the photos. -Ximena GL
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