ARIZONA FOREST ELOPEMENTS- MOGOLLON RIM
The Mogollon Rim & Woods Canyon Lake, located northeast of Payson, AZ and about 2 hours from the Phoenix area, is a fantastic location if you are looking for a forest location near a lake for your Arizona elopement or small wedding. It’s a popular spot for summer recreation including boating, kayaking, fishing, and hiking, with a beautiful cliff overlook facing west, making it perfect for sunset photos.
LOCATION DETAILS
TherePark: Apache-Sitgreaves
How to get there: From Payson, take the 260 east towards Heber. Once you climb up to the top of the rim, you will see the Mogollon Rim Visitor’s Center on the left and signs for Woods Canyon Lake on the right.
Cost: Small fee for parking in some areas around Woods Canyon Lake if the store parking is full.
Permits: Unclear if small weddings/elopements need a special use permit. Contact Ranger’s office.
Dog friendly: Yes, on leash
Max guests: 10-20 max
No glass containers
As always, LEAVE NO TRACE!
WHY I LOVE IT
There aren’t many areas of Arizona that offer beautiful mountain & cliff overlooks, a nearby lake AND gorgeous pine trees that are easily accessible and not a long drive from Phoenix. The Mogollon Rim offers all of these things, as well as being only 2-3 hours from the Phoenix area and is a lovely escape from the summer heat.
YISEL & CORY
Yisel & Cory had a beautiful, intimate elopement at Woods Canyon Lake & the Mogollon Rim with just her parents & Cory’s mom on a warm, beautiful summer day. After the sun set, we went back to Woods Canyon Lake for some romantic night photos with fairy lights.