How to Elope in Sedona With Your Dog

If your dog is part of the family, it would only make sense that you would want them beside you on the best day of your life. If your idea of a perfect wedding day involves red rocks, dusty trails, epic views, and your favorite four-legged adventure buddy by your side, you are in the right place. Sedona is one of the most dog friendly locations in the US making it a perfect location for couples who want to include their dogs. A Sedona elopement with your dog can be the most incredible adventure, it just might take a little extra planning if we are adding them to your guest list. Your dog doesn’t have to simply “show up” for a few photos. With this guide and careful planning they can be part of the entire experience.

Not Interested in Reading The Full Post? Listen on The Go With The Podcast

Everything you need to know to have a Sedona elopement with your dog. I’m breaking down how to pack, plan and adventure with your four-legged best friend on your elopement day in this podcast episode. Check it out here.

Choosing the Right Elopement Location for Your Dog

Choosing the right elopement location is arguably one of the most important parts of your elopement day. That said, if you are including your four legged best friend, it is especially important to ask yourself some questions to choose the right location for you and your pup. While Sedona has no shortage of beautiful viewpoints and scenic trails, not every location will be the right fit for every dog. Consider your dog’s age, energy level, hiking experience, comfort around crowds, and ability to handle heat and when choosing your location. The goal is to find a place where you can enjoy the scenery, capture beautiful photos, and make meaningful memories together without adding extra wedding day stress.

Here are a few questions to ask yourself when selecting your ceremony location:

• Is there rock scrambling?
• Will there be shade?
• How far is the hike?
• Is there water nearby?
• Does the hike or location have any cliffs or steep drop-offs?
• How crowded is the location?
• Are dogs actually allowed at this location?

If you need help answering these questions or want additional planning assistance, you can contact me HERE. I help couples just like you organize and plan dog-friendly Sedona elopements. All you have to do is reach out!

Best Locations for a Dog-Friendly Sedona Elopement

When choosing a location for your elopement, you will want to think about more than just the view. That Instagram famous location might look great in photos, but was it hard to access? Did you need to hike hours to find it? Were you scrambling over rocks or skirting narrow ledges? In order to have Sedona elopement with your dog, I recommend looking for locations that combine accessibility, privacy and a beautiful backdrop. Here are some of my favorite locations that I would consider to be dog-friendly.

Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte

The Bell Rock area is one of the more popular places to experience Sedona with your dog and for good reason. The surrounding trails offer beautiful views of Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte, with so many options for shorter and longer hikes. Keep in mind that popular areas can become crowded, particularly around sunrise and sunset. So if you are looking for accessibility, and views, this location is perfect, but if you want something more private, you might want to consider other locations.

Little Horse Trail

The Little Horse trail is another popular location for couples who want an outdoor adventure without committing to an extremely difficult hike. The trail offers beautiful views of Sedona’s red rocks and the Chapel of the Holy Cross area. That said, this location can be busy at certain time of the day. You will need to be mindful of other hikers and cyclists in the area. This location is also incredibly exposed which means there will not be much shade, it is important to consider the temperature and sun exposure when bringing your dog.

Red Rock Crossing / Crescent Moon Ranch

If the combination of water and stunning red rocks gets you super excited, then Red Rock Crossing would be an amazing location for you. This area offers stunning views of Cathedral Rock, and dogs are allowed in the park on a leash. This location can be a great choice for dogs who love playing in the water. If you would like to host your ceremony at this location, you will need to apply for a permit HERE. Red Rock Crossing, also known as Crescent Moon Ranch has 2 hour time slots available for groups under 15 guests. This will ensure you have the space to yourself.

Soldier Pass

For couples looking for a more adventurous elopement experience, Soldier Pass Trail is one of my favorite options. The trail takes you through some of the area’s iconic red rock scenery, with highlights such as the Seven Sacred Pools and the Devil’s Kitchen sinkhole along the way. Dogs are welcome on the trail as long as they are kept on leash. This trail includes uneven, rocky terrain, so it’s important to consider your dog’s skill level when considering this location.

Yavapai Vista

For couples looking for a shorter adventure, Yavapai Vista is another great possibility. This is a half mile out and back, generally considered to be a very easy hike. Dogs will need to remain on a leash and Red Rock Pass or America the Beautiful Pass is required to park at the trailhead. You can purchase the Red Rock Pass HERE. This location is perfect for older dogs, smaller dogs, or dogs who aren’t accustomed to hiking long distances. This allows them to be part of your elopement day without the demands of a longer hike.

What Parts of the Day to Include Your Dog In? And How to do it?

Your dog doesn’t have to be part of every big moment to be part of your elopement day. Consider including them in the little adventures throughout the day, like taking a sunset walk together, exploring downtown Sedona, stopping for a coffee or treat, or enjoying a laid-back picnic with beautiful views. These in-between moments give you a chance to slow down, enjoy each other, and let your dog simply be part of the experience. They also make for some of the sweetest candid photos because there’s no pressure to pose—just the three of you enjoying your day together.

Getting Ready

Having your dog hang out with you while you’re getting ready can make for some beautiful and meaningful moments before the days activities really get underway. This is a natural way for your pup to be included in this special day. Imagine them curled up on the bed while you finish steaming your dress. Or maybe they’re perfectly underfoot in the kitchen while you and your partner prepare breakfast for the day. Including them in natural ways as you would at home can make your wedding day feel more like your own and less like a production. Here nothing needs to be staged and the getting ready part of your day feels more intentional and personal.

Your First Look

You’ve probably heard of doing a first look with your partner or a family member, but you can als do a first look with your dog. And let me tell you what, these pictures are to die for! Whether your dog is excitedly wagging their tail, giving you their best confused look, or simply soaking up the moment, it can make for some incredibly fun and candid photos between the two of you. Having a first look with your dog is the perfect way to let go of some of the wedding day nerves and have fun during one of the more emotional parts of the elopement day.

Hiking to Your Ceremony

One of my favorite ways to include your dog in your elopement day is to bring them out hiking with you on your way to your ceremony location. Instead of simply driving from one location to another, slow things down and plan a short or even a longer hike. This is a great way to share something you and your pup both enjoy on your wedding day. Walk the trail, stop for photos, let your dog explore, and take in the incredible scenery along the way. Some of the sweetest moments can happen between the big ones, and turning the journey into part of your elopement gives you more time to breath a little deeper, have fun, and create memories together out on the trail.

Your Actual Ceremony

When most people think of including their dog on their elopement day, they are probably imagining them dressed to the nine, standing right beside you while you exchange your vows. And honestly, this is one of my favorite ways to include them in your ceremony. Just simply let them be close. Some couples like to make their dogs the ring bearer and they will tie the rings to a special collar for the dogs to wear. That said, if you do include your dog in your elopement ceremony, just remember that dogs are dogs. There is always a chance that they will bark, pull on the leash or get distracted while you are trying to exchange vows. But don’t let that deter you from allowing your dog to be apart of the ceremony. These moments of chaos bring personality and fun to your day and long after you have exchanged rings, these might be some of the funniest and most memorable parts of your ceremony.

Your Portraits

It only makes sense that if you are planning a dog-friendly elopement in Sedona that you will set aside plenty of time for you to take pictures of you and your pup. I encourage all of my couples to let these moments unfold naturally rather than rushing through them and trying to create the perfectly posed photos. Some of my favorite ways to get these more natural photos is to have the three of you walking together, cuddling, playing, or simply sitting and taking in the landscape. I love capturing the little details of you and your dog. Their paws in your hands, their collar, their wedding outfit, just the things that make them special and unique. I recommend giving yourselves plenty of time in your timeline to allow your pup to settle into a space where their personality to come out. This is where you will get the best photos.

Little Adventures Throughout the Day

Your dog doesn’t have to be part of every big moment to be part of your elopement day. Consider including them in the little adventures throughout the day. I love when couples include their dogs in the little things like a coffee stop in downtown Sedona, a quiet sunset walk on a trail near their Airbnb or even an overlook picnic at a stunning location. These in-between moments give you a chance to slow down, enjoy each other, and let your dog simply be part of the experience. These activities allow you to feel present with your partner and your dog and create spaces for some beautiful candid photos because there isn’t any pressure to pose. Just the three of you enjoying the day together in a comfortable and natural way.

Looking for some great activity ideas to do with your dog? Keep scrolling. Next I have shared some of my favorite dog-friendly Sedona elopement activities. Check out these ideas below.

Best Elopement Activities to Do With Your Dog

Your wedding day doesn’t have to be just a ceremony and traditional wedding photos. That’s why you are choosing to elope. You want more. One of the best parts of a Sedona elopement with your dog is that you can turn the entire day into an adventure with fun and unique activities throughout the day to include your dog in your celebration. Some of my personal favorite activities to include your dog in are listed here. For even more elopement activities and other ideas on what to do on your elopement day, check out this post: 30 Best Sedona Elopement Activities

Go for a Hike

Hiking is one of the easiest ways to include your dog in your Sedona elopement. This is a great way for you and your pup to have an active adventure on your wedding day. With incredible views and miles of trails to explore, you and your pup can share an incredible experience together. When choosing a trail, consider your dog’s fitness level, age, size, and hiking experience rather than choosing a location based solely on the view. A shorter, easier trail where your dog is comfortable will make for a much more enjoyable experience rather than pushing them through a challenging hike just to reach a certain location. Sometimes less is more here. I am happy to help you find pet friendly trail options that work for you and your dog’s experience level to ensure you have the most enjoyable day possible.

Visit Oak Creek

If your dog loves the water as much as mine do, consider going to the Oak Creek in an area where dogs are permitted. Spend some time exploring the shoreline, swimming or simply relaxing together by the creek. this is a great way to escape the heat and add a fun, unique, and spontaneous adventure into your day. A day spent slashing in the water after a long day of hiking in the sun could be the best way to wrap up your adventure elopement.

Pro tip: find a location where you can do some cliff jumping so you and your partner can jump in the water and get some awesome photos of you cliff jumping and swimming around with your dog.

Have a Picnic

A picnic is a great way to slow down and enjoy your wedding day together, especially after a morning of hiking and exploring. Pack your favorite breakfast, lunch, or a few celebratory snacks to enjoy at an overlook or even along the Oak Creek for some cooler temperatures. This is a great opportunity to give your dog a chance to rest, hydrate, and enjoy a few treats of their own while you take in the scenery and eat your favorite snacks. Whether it’s a cozy blanket with a packed lunch or a few snacks shared between adventures, adding in a picnic is the perfect activity to include your dog in. I mean who doesn’t love trailside snacks?

Go Off-Roading

Off-roading is such a fun way to turn your elopement into an incredible adventure, especially if you want to explore more of Sedona’s more remote locations. Hop in the Jeep, bring your pup along, and spend the afternoon cruising through the red rocks, stopping at scenic overlooks. This is a great way to see more of Sedona and let your dog stretch their legs, take a few breaks, and explore somewhere new with you. Whether you’re stopping for photos, pulling over to take in the views, or simply enjoying the ride with the windows down, off-roading adds a little extra adventure to your wedding day. And the best part is, your dog can come along for the ride. I mean all dogs love a good car ride!

Take a Scenic Drive

If off-roading is too much adventure for you, that is ok! Sedona and the surrounding area is filled with beautiful drive up locations. This option lets you see more of Sedona in the comfort of your own car.. Pack some snacks, your pup’s favorite blanket, and plenty of water. Then spend the day exploring the red rocks and stopping at scenic overlooks along the way. Your dog can enjoy the fresh air, an open window, and take in all the sights while you enjoy the views without a strict itinerary. Add in a few spontaneous photo stops, your favorite playlist, and maybe a sunset pull-off, and just like that the drive becomes one of the best parts of your elopement day. Feel free to reach out for some of my favorite scenic drive locations HERE.

Explore Town

Sedona has a number of pet-friendly businesses and outdoor spaces that you can explore with your dog. If you are looking for a space to let your dog off leash to run around, check out Posse Grounds Park for some exercise even before the day gets started. This way your dog has had a chance to burn some energy before posing for all their photos or entering places of business.

Create Something Together

Creating something together can be such a fun way to include your dog in your elopement day while also giving you a keepsake to remember the day by. You could make a paw-print painting, create a piece of artwork using your dog’s paw prints and your wedding colors. Or you could have your pup “sign” a guest book with a paw print. Couples have also made custom ornaments to hang on their Christmas tress or even in their windows back home. You could press flowers from your bouquet and have your dog’s paw print there next to the flowers. Maybe create a memory box with your dog’s special wedding day collar and write letters to each other. Add in a photo or paw print from the day and open the box on your 5 year anniversary. You could even bring a small canvas and let your dog make their own little masterpiece with some paint. It doesn’t have to be perfect, the whole point is creating something together that you can look back on and say, “Our dog was part of our day.”

Cook Breakfast

Cooking breakfast together can be such a beautiful way to start your elopement day, especially if you want a slow, cozy morning. Make your favorite breakfast, have a cup of coffee, and let your dog hang out nearby while you cook. Maybe make them their own special breakfast or bring them a special treat to enjoy while you and your partner eat. Dance around the kitchen in your pj’s share some pancakes and enjoy the romance of your elopement day. This helps set the tone for your elopement day, ensuring you have a stress-free day filled with quiet moments and overwhelming joy.

Sample Dog-Friendly Elopement Timeline

You have all the ideas… Now what?? A dog-friendly elopement timeline doesn’t have to be complicated. The most important thing to remember when creating your elopement timeline is to build in plenty of time for adventures, breaks, and moments to simply enjoy being together. Instead of squeezing your pup into a packed schedule, build in room for them to explore, rest, and be part of the day during moments that matter most to you. From getting ready together to sunset walks and everything in between, a little extra flexibility can make your elopement feel relaxed, fun, and completely your own. Here is how I would structure an elopement timeline for a couple who wanted to elope with their dog in Sedona and go for a moderate hike.

• 8:00 AM — Getting Ready Photos
• 9:00 AM — First Look With Groom + Pup
• 9:30 AM — Final Details + Pack Up
• 10:00 AM — Drive to Trailhead
• 10:45 AM — Begin Hike
• 12:30 PM — Arrive at Ceremony Location
• 1:00 PM — Ceremony
• 1:30 PM — Overlook Picnic
• 2:30 PM — Couple + Dog Portraits (candids included)
• 3:30 PM — Hike Back to the Car
• 5:00 PM — Rest & Reset
• 5:45 PM — Short Sunset Trail
• 6:15 PM — Sunset Portraits
• 6:45 PM — Head Back to Airbnb + Celebrate

If you need help constructing your elopement timeline or want me to create a custom timeline for you, reach out HERE.

Consider Bringing or Hiring a Dog Handler

If you want your dog present for the ceremony and portraits but don’t want to spend the entire day worrying about them or maybe you are interested in an activity that is not dog friendly, consider bringing someone along who can help take care of your pup. You could bring a family member, a friend, or even hire a dog sitter or handler to help throughout the day.

The person in charge of your fur baby can help:

• Hold the leash during portraits
• Carry extra water
• Give your dog treats
• Take them for walks
• Keep them out of the sun
• Watch them while you’re taking couples only photos
• Drive them back to your accommodations

This extra care taker can allow you to be fully present during your ceremony instead of wondering where the dog wandered off to or if they are enjoying themselves.

Keeping Your Dog Safe During Your Sedona Elopement

This is the most important part when it comes to planning a Sedona elopement with your dog. The desert is incredible, but conditions change quickly and environment can be challenging for dogs. Here are some things to consider when packing and planning your dog-friendly Sedona elopement.

Watch the Temperature

The arizona heat can be dangerous and should be taken VERY seriously. Even if the air temperature doesn’t seem hot or extreme, the pavement, trails and rock can be significantly hotter. Check the ground before walking your dogs outside or hiking. You will want to pay attention to the temperature trends for the month you are visiting to ensure your pup can handle the heat. I recommend planning your outdoor activities for cooler parts of the day whenever possible. Early morning and evenings are generally the best times of the day to go outside and explore with your dog. For more information on how to manage the heat in Sedona, check out this post: 12 Tips to Stay Cool and Beat the Heat in Sedona

Bring More Water Than You Think You Need

You will need a LOT more water than you think if you are planning to adventure in Sedona all day. Not only will you and your partner be drinking more, but you will also need to be able to keep your pup hydrated throughout the day. I recommend bringing a collapsible water bowl or portable dog water bottle to make it easy for your pup to drink along the way. Build in enough time in your timeline for water breaks so that you are not rushing to the next location. Dehydration is a huge safety concern in the desert so pack accordingly.

Additionally, a small towel can also come in handy for wiping dusty paws or cooling your dog down throughout the day. If your dog is use to carrying their own water and food, a lightweight dog backpack can be helpful so you don’t need to carry as much water. I always recommend bringing too much water. It is better to have water leftover at the end of the day then to run out halfway through your adventure.

If you are interested in a dog backpack, I have the Ruffwear Front Range for my dog and he loves it. It’s also easy to adjust and fits him really well. Here is a pic of my dog Jake rockin’ his hiking pack! No drama, just raw adventure.

Protect Their Paws

Sedona’s red rock, gravel, asphalt and other hot surfaces can be tough on your dog’s paw pads, especially during the warmer months. Depending on the season and your dog’s experience with heat and hiking, consider bringing dog booties or paw balm to help protect their feet. Plan for shorter hikes with plenty of breaks in the shade along the way as well to ensure they stay hydrated.

If you decide to use booties, I recommend testing them well before your elopement day so your dog has plenty of time to get use to wearing them. (I have two black labs and one had no issue with the boots while the other refused to wear them.) Don’t try something new with them on your wedding day. The last thing you want is for your pup to spend your wedding day trying to figure out the booties and taking away from your experience. Do a trial hike at home before you even get to Sedona to see if they tolerate the boots. Below I linked my favorite dog booties and paw balm.

Best hiking booties for dogs: Hi + Light Trail Shoes by Ruffwear

Best paw balm for paw protection: Pawtection by Natural Dog Company

Keep Your Dog Leashed

Keeping your dog on a leash is especially important when exploring in Sedona. Some of trails will encounter steep drop-offs, wildlife, roads, cyclists, horses, and other dogs. Which is why it is important to keep your dog on a leash. That said, Almost all of the trails in Sedona require that our furry friends remain on a leash for the safety of wildlife and other visitors. If you want to give your dog a little more freedom, you could bring a longer retractable leash to allow them to venture a little further while still abiding by the leash laws.

Watch for Wildlife

Sedona’s desert landscape is home to unique wildlife, and plant life that your dog may not be accustomed to. New sights, sounds, and unfamiliar smells can be exciting and may cause even a well-behaved dog to chase after something that catches their attention. Keep your pup close, supervised and on a leash throughout the day and never allow them to chase or approach wildlife. Staying aware of your surroundings and keeping your dog within reach will help you both enjoy the adventure safely.

Bring a First-Aid Kit

It’s always a good idea to be prepared for the unexpected, especially when you’re exploring the outdoors with your dog. While I have a first aid kit ready for for us in my back pack, I recommend packing a basic first-aid kit that has supplies for you and your pup along with any medications your dog may need during the day. Before heading out, take a few minutes to find the nearest veterinary clinic to your elopement location and save the address and phone number in your phone in case of an emergency. The hope is that you won’t need this information, but having a plan in place can give you peace of mind and make it easier to respond quickly if something does happen while out on the trail.

In the event that we do not have cell service, I always hike with my Garmin inReach which is a satellite device that allows me to send an SOS signal if needed. Having a plan for emergencies isn’t there to scare or deter you from having an outdoor adventure, but rather give you confidence to be able to handle any situation that arises on your elopement day.

Never Leave Your Dog in the Car

This deserves its own section. In Arizona, even a short stop can become dangerous for your dog. Never leave your dog unattended in a parked vehicle while you take photos, explore a trail, or step away for any reason. Temperatures inside a car can rise quickly even if the temperature outside doesn’t feel too hot. If your dog can’t join you for part of the day, make arrangements ahead of time for a trusted pet sitter, dog handler, or a trip back to your pet-friendly Airbnb where they can stay comfortable and/or supervised. Planning this in advance means you can fully enjoy the parts of your elopement that aren’t dog-friendly without having to stress about what to do with your dog during that time. If you need pet-friendly lodging accommodations, you can inquire about elopement planning and lodging HERE.

Leave No Trace

If you are out in the nature, you should ALWAYS follow the Leave No Trace principles and that includes your elopement day. Your wedding day should be filled with lasting memories (and amazing photos), not evidence that you were there. It is so important to help preserve the natural beauty of Sedona and you can do that by staying on established trails, packing out all of your trash and pet waste, leave wildlife alone, and leaving rocks, plants, and other natural features where you find them. Keep your pets leashed and under control to help protect the environment for everyone. For more information on the Leave No Trace principles or how to include them in your elopement day, check out this post: How to Include Leave No Trace Into Your Elopement

What Should Your Dog Wear for Your Elopement?

If you want your dog to look their best on your elopement day, there are tons of ideas to help them dress for the occasion. That said, don’t complicate the wedding outfit and above all, make sure your dog is comfortable in whatever it is you choose. I would recommend trying on the new outfit at home before your wedding day to ensure they are comfortable and can tolerate it. Nothing is worse than fussing with uncomfortable clothes. I promise, your dog will thank you later.

Here are some fun ideas for how to dress your dog for your elopement day:

• Bandana
• Floral collar
• Bow tie
• Custom collar
• Custom wedding leash
• Mini-suits or a tuxedo
• Dresses or a tutu
• Personalized dog tag

**If you decide you want flowers, make sure the flowers are secured safely. Additionally, if you are using live plants or flowers, triple check to make sure they are pet-friendly in the event they chew or ingest the flowers.

Check out this post for more unique ideas on how to dress your dog for your wedding day: 20 Fab Dog Outfits for Wedding Season by Rover.

What to Pack for a Sedona Elopement With Your Dog

A little extra packing and extra planning can make your dog-friendly elopement in Sedona so much easier and enjoyable. A good packing list means you can spend the day focused on the adventure instead of realizing halfway up the trail that you forgot the treats back at home. From water and snacks to leashes, waste bags, first-aid essentials, and a few comfort items, packing for your pup is just as important as packing for yourselves. Here’s a helpful checklist of the things you’ll want to bring along for a comfortable, and stress-free elopement.

Puppy Essentials

• Leash
• Collar with identification
• Harness (if you have one)
• Water
• Collapsible bowl
• Food
• Treats
• Poop bags
• Dog first-aid supplies
• Towel
• Paw balm
• Booties (if needed)
• Any necessary medications
• Their favorite toys
• Small blanket
• Crate for travel between locations
• Their elopement outfit

For a more complete packing list (one for human and puppy essentials). You can contact me HERE. I create customized packing lists for all of my couples so that they can show up to their elopement day feeling confident and prepared. Because preparedness is what allows you to have a stress free elopement day with your pup.

Ready to Plan Your Sedona Elopement With Your Dog?

If hiking through Sedona’s red rocks at sunrise to exchanging vows with your pup by your side gives you butterflies, then you are in the right place. There are so many ways to create a wedding day that feels more like an experience than a traditional ceremony and one of those ways is to include your furry best friend in all the festivities. The key here is to plan around you and your dog’s personality and choose a location that fits your interests and abilities. The best part of a having a Sedona elopement with your dog isn’t getting every detail perfect, it’s creating one of the best days of your life together. If you are ready to create this day, but don’t know here to start, contact me HERE. I would love to help you plan the most incredible dog friendly Sedona elopement.