Joshua Tree is my favorite national park. It’s just full of wonder. From the crooked trees to the sweeping valleys, the iconic rock stacks to the endless skies—there is just so much I love about JTNP. Truth be told, I was practically raised here, coming to the park every year with my grandparents who lived nearby.

This place feels like another home. Naturally, I’m over the moon when a couple wants to elope here. Enter Melanie & Zach, who wanted a real-deal Cap Rock elopement. The two flew in from the East Coast, choosing a wedding day for just the two of them. They had one goal—explore the park together as their first act as husband and wife.

A Wedding Day at Cap Rock in Joshua Tree

I arrived at Melanie & Zach’s Airbnb in the early morning. Zach was mostly ready, but Melanie had a few odds and ends. While my husband, Isiah, made small talk with Zach, I helped Melanie prepare for the first look.

First-look photos are a lot of fun because you can only plan so much. As the photographer, I can angle the shot, find complimentary lightning, and position the couple. But the real magic only happens when our newly-weds capture each other’s eyes. Some folks start crying, others express joy and a little bit of shock, and still others are stunned into silence. There’s no wrong way to react, as long as it’s from the heart.

As Melanie showed her wedding dress to Zach, I could tell he was moved by the moment. What an awesome way to start a wedding day, with the first-look during the sunrise.

The four of us—Melanie, Zach, myself, and Isiah (who acted as the officiant)—gathered near Cap Rock for the ceremony. Isiah opened the festivities with a reading from Percy B. Shelley to set the tone. And Melanie was already tearing up.

The couple decided to forego their own vows, telling Isiah that they had been together for more than 10 years. What they shared and loved about each other was something beyond words, so there was no need for a long ceremony. But they did add one tradition, sharing sips from a single glass of wine just before the ring exchange. They were careful not to let any dribble on their light-colored outfits.

After the ceremony was completed, our couple raised their hands in celebration. They kissed and Melanie gave the most lovely teary-eyed smile in the morning light. It was just too beautiful to describe, so I might as well just show you the photos!

One of Melanie & Zach’s big asks was a first dance. So, Isiah and I backed up to give them some room as they held each other close for an emotional first dance. Our small speaker played some music close to the couple’s hearts. For a moment, it seemed like the whole park was just theirs.

With the knot tied (so to speak), there was nothing left to do but explore the park. With wedding attire and sunglasses, our couple scrambled up and down never-ending rock stacks. We even visited the cholla garden in Joshua Tree National Park.

If you have the chance to visit JTNP, I definitely recommend this spot. The “jumping cactus” or “teddy bear cacti” appear to glow when backed by the sun’s light, making it a really magical spot. Although, Isiah and I did have to protect the bride from thorns and bees along the way. But that’s just part of the adventure when you get married in the elements.

Although it was only May, the heat in the park started to pick up. So we left to return to their Airbnb for a few more photos and some laughs. All in all, it was exactly what our couple wanted. An intimate celebration of their mutual compassion, love, and joy.

How to Elope at Cap Rock in Joshua Tree

Does a Cap Rock elopement sound like YOUR perfect wedding day? The wonder and expanse of Joshua Tree calls to so many, so it’s no wonder couples want to elope here. Luckily, it’s easy to do so. Here’s how:

Choose a general time or date
If you’re out of state, contact the local county clerk to get your marriage license. If you’re in state, this can be done at any office.
Book an elopement wedding photographer to help you plan and capture the day
If you want to get married in the park, contact the permit office to see if you need a permit. If you’re getting married at a venue, book there but plan to head into the park for portraits
Book lodging and other vendors, such as an officiant, florals, decor, food, and more
Get married!