Stunning Utah Engagement Photo Locations
Getting engaged is such an exciting chapter, and your engagement photos should capture that excitement in a way that feels real and true to your relationship. If you want the snow-covered mountains of Utah County, soft golden grass in North Salt Lake, or an open desert landscape like the Little Sahara sand dunes, there are so many great spots across the state that offer beautiful backdrops for every kind of couple.
As a Utah engagement photographer, I’ve explored public lands, state parks, and local hidden gems to find the best photo locations for real couples. I’ll guide you through the session and make sure we pick the perfect location that fits your style and story. Here's a roundup of some of my favorite places for engagement sessions, plus a few helpful tips at the end to help you feel confident and ready.
American Fork Canyon: Year-Round Variety
Just 30 minutes from Salt Lake, American Fork Canyon has so many great photo locations packed into one area. If you love tall pine trees, wide mountain views, and lots of natural variety, this canyon is a strong choice. It’s especially beautiful in the fall, and the Alpine Loop area gives you everything from aspen groves to high mountain backdrops. You can even catch glimpses of Mount Timpanogos in the distance.
This area works well year-round, especially for couples hoping to book a winter engagement session. Be mindful that snow can make some roads harder to access, so we’ll want to plan accordingly. And don’t forget your park pass or entrance fee, parking patrol does check!
Provo Canyon Favorites: Aspen Grove, Big Springs, and Vivian Park
Utah County couples have so many great engagement photo spots just outside of Provo. Big Springs is a great location for mountain views and tall grass, especially in summer. Aspen Grove offers those iconic white trees and some of the best fall colors in the state, while Vivian Park is an easily accessible favorite for relaxed, casual photos. You’ll find tall trees, open fields, and a little bridge that makes a sweet photo spot.
If you’re hoping for a fall shoot with deciduous trees turning yellow and orange, this area is one of the best places to watch the seasons shift. Some of these spots do require a quick hike, but nothing too wild; just wear shoes you can walk in comfortably.
Thanksgiving Point Gardens: A Floral Favorite
Looking for something more manicured? Thanksgiving Point in Lehi features stunning gardens, fountains, and vibrant seasonal blooms. It’s a great spring or early summer option if you want floral beauty and clean paths. You will need to arrange photography permits here, but I can help walk you through the process.
This location works well for couples who want a formal look or anyone planning to use their engagement photos for wedding invitations. The gardens are a mix of elegant, romantic, and playful, perfect for walking, dancing, or even a little twirl in a flowy dress.
Hidden Gems South of Salt Lake: Payson Lakes and Nebo Loop
About an hour south of Salt Lake, you’ll find a few lesser-known favorites like Payson Lakes and spots along the Nebo Loop. These areas offer still water, thick pine forests, and views of Mount Nebo that often get overlooked. During summer and early fall, these locations become quiet, peaceful spots for photos that feel private and intimate.
Since cell service can be spotty in these areas, I’ll ensure we coordinate the details before we head out. Payson Lakes is especially great for couples who want to dip their toes in the water or use a blanket for cozy lakeside shots.
Great Saltair: Salt Flats Vibes, Closer to Home
Want Salt Flats vibes without driving all the way out west? The Great Saltair, located just west of Salt Lake, features a large open dirt field that resembles the salt flats, especially during golden hour. It’s not as bright white, but it’s closer to the city and doesn’t require any permits. It’s an ideal location for couples who want a modern, minimalist backdrop and easy access.
I recommend this spot for spring and fall since the bugs in summer can get aggressive. Layers work great here, and neutral outfits really pop against the open landscape.
Little Sahara Sand Dunes: Barefoot and Beautiful
The Little Sahara sand dunes in Juab County bring a playful and adventurous energy to your engagement photos. It’s the kind of place where you can kick off your shoes, run down the dunes, and just have fun with each other. The curves and textures of the sand photograph beautifully, especially as the sun starts to dip toward the horizon.
You’ll want to avoid winter here, as the sand can freeze or get muddy. Spring through fall is ideal, and I’ll help you pick the right time of day to get soft, glowing light without too many harsh shadows.
Salt Lake City: City Views and Spring Blossoms
Salt Lake has a handful of great spots if you want a mix of nature and clean backdrops. Memory Grove is one of the most popular locations in the city, especially in spring when the blossoms bloom. The park features a picturesque bridge, serene trails, and some interesting architectural elements, including a stone gazebo and columns.
If you head up the hill, Ensign Peak puts you on a grassy slope that overlooks the city. In May, yellow wildflowers cover the hillside, and by early summer, it glows during golden hour. You don’t have to hike to the top to get good photos either, most of the best spots are near the base.
The Capitol grounds can work well, too, if you're going for something cleaner. The wide steps, stonework, and blooming trees in spring make it an easy location close to everything. All of these spots are simple to get to and great if you’re short on time or want something nearby.
Park City: Snow and Open Mountain Views
Park City is one of the best places in Utah for variety. You can shoot here year-round, and the scenery always feels like a step away from the city.
McPolin Barn is a great spot for summer or early fall. There’s a big white barn with silos, but the real magic is behind it. A wide field stretches out with tall grass and mountain views in the distance. In July, wildflowers usually pop up along the trail, and the light hits the field just right in the evening.
Empire Pass sits higher up and opens for the season around June. The pass is full of aspens, wildflowers, and rocky cliffs. Toward the top, there's a spot that overlooks Heber Valley and Deer Creek with hazy mountain layers. It’s especially beautiful during blue hour, when the sky starts to shift to soft pastels.
In winter, the parks closer to town are great too. A small park about ten minutes outside Main Street usually stays packed with snow, so you can walk around easily. The pine and aspen mix makes it a quiet and cozy spot when the mountains are buried in snow.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right location is a big part of making your engagement session feel like you. There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to photography, and Utah gives us a lot of flexibility to match your style, the season, and even the outfits you love most.
Once you’ve picked your favorite location (or if you need help deciding!), I’ll help with the rest, from planning timing to outfit inspiration to making sure your shoot is relaxed and fun. I’m all about helping couples look and feel like themselves in every single shot.
Ready to start planning your Utah engagement session?
