Eloping at the Bonneville Salt Flats
The Salt Flats is a stretch of densely packed salt in Tooele County, UT that’s about twelve miles long and perfect for engagement sessions, bridal sessions or elopements! People come from all over the world to see the unique salt formation at different times of the year for the gorgeous lighting and unreal views!
Hi there! We’re Tana and Cory Metcalf - a husband and wife photo/video team, local to Utah! We love exploring all that the world has to offer and taking our doggos along for the journey, as well! Here are some of our best tips for your Salt Flats elopement.
Best Time of Year to Elope at the Salt Flats
The best time to elope at the Salt Flats is in the summer or early fall to avoid wet season for your set up. Sometimes it can get pretty windy out there so check the mph on wind before your shoot.
If you don’t mind getting wet, the wet season from November to April. This is when water pools over the Salt flats. Though it is incovenient to wade in the shallow top layer of water, the reflective qualities of this time can be really beautiful in photos.
Permits to Marry at the Salt Flats
At this time, there is no permit or fee to marry on the salt flats, making it super convenient and affordable! If you want lights or music, the biggest budget expense will be bringing out a generator for these things.
Where to Meet
The Salt Flats are about an hour and a half west of Salt Lake City.
The first meeting place is when you are headed West bound on I-80. You can pull off at the Salt Flats Rest Area Westbound.
The second option, which is better if you are wanting to include a car, an alter and chairs, motorcycles, or props in your photos onto the salt flats is to meet at the Sinclair Gas Station/Punjabi Dhaba Restaurant.
Once you meet up with everyone in your party, you can take a right, and then a second right onto the Bonneville Salt Flats International Raceway. Here you can drive out onto the salt flats. This is better for finding a more secluded spot, as well!
Where to Stay
If you need a place to stay after you elopement nearby, there are the casinos and hotels in Wendover. Tip: These casinos can make for a cute Vegas-feel for getting ready photos or afterparty photos.
OR if you choose to drive back to SLC for the night, there are lots of hotels and Airbnbs to pick from!
Are Drones Allowed?
Yes. The Salt Flats are Bureau of Land Management territory, or BLM land. These public lands means that drones are permitted.
Things to Do
Eat at the Oceano Buffet at the Montego Bay Hotel and Casino
Gambling
Night Photography/ Star Gazing
See a concert at the Peppermill Concert Hall
