Is Summer Too Hot to Elope in Arizona?

Think you can’t elope in Arizona during summer? Think again—it’s all about knowing where to go! As Arizonan locals born and raised we have learned where to adventure in the summertime and where to avoid. While the heat here is a dry heat -insert every Arizonan rolling their eyes- it can still be dangerous and uncomfortable especially on a wedding day. 

Most locations in Arizona, including Sedona, hit triple digit heat all summer long. But did you know there is a mountain town tucked away at 7000 feet elevation that doesn’t get above 95 degrees? Flagstaff is the best summer elopements location in Arizona and may be the best option for you and your adventure! This post breaks down why summer elopements can still be magical—and how to do them right.

The Realities of Summer Elopements in Sedona

While we absolutely love elopements in the red rocks of Sedona, we have learned over the years that it’s best to avoid summertime. Here are the reasons we advise couples against eloping in Sedona in the summertime:

• High temps (often over 100°F by 10am)
• Monsoon season = storms, flash floods, humidity, mosquitoes 
• Crowds at sunrise due to it being the only comfortable time to be outside
• Jeep trails may close during heavy rain

If you’re set on Sedona, I’ll help you plan around the heat—but for more flexibility, Flagstaff might be the summer gem you didn’t expect. To avoid the peak heat and monsoons we suggest eloping before June 15th and after September 15th.

Need help deciding which season is best to elope in Sedona? Check out of blog post talking about the pros and cons of each time of year! 

Bonus Pro Elopement Planning Tip: 

Sedona is only 45 minutes away from Flagstaff so you can plan an elopement experience between both towns! Elope in Sedona and sunrise and meet back up with us around sunset in Flagstaff! 

Why Flagstaff is the Best Summer Elopement Spot in Arizona: escape the heat & keep the magic! 

Flagstaff is every Arizonan’s favorite secret spot to escape to in the summertime. Temperatures are between 70 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit on average. You trade the desert for pine forests, meadows of wildflowers, aspen groves, mountain backdrops, and cooler air! We know of dozens of intimate, under the radar locations that are perfect for elopements and micro-weddings. 

Important Things to Know About Eloping in Flagstaff in the Summer

While Flagstaff is Arizona’s coolest town in the summer, that doesn’t mean it doesn’t come with important things to prepare for. 

One of the biggest risks of eloping in the summer in Flagstaff is wildfire season. June and early July are peak wildfire season. This means that there can be trail closures that can be hard to navigate if you are not familiar with the area. Every year is different so it’s important to hire a local like us who can help navigate this. 

Another thing to consider is the elevation and intense sun. Most people who have never hiked in high elevation are  shocked by the sun’s intensity. It’s extremely important to avoid being on sunny trails mid-day and to properly hydrate. Pack a picnic and enjoy some cool drinks in the dense forest and you’ll be good to go! 

Flagstaff DOES still experience monsoon season! On average Flagstaff gets more rain than Sedona and Phoenix so it’s super important to be ready for the rain and thunderstorms. On average monsoon season is from July-September! You can expect a storm to roll into around mid-day, sometimes later on in the day. They don’t typically last all day long and come and go very quickly. As an experienced local I can help you navigate this on your wedding day. 

Favorite Summer Flagstaff Elopement Locations 

There are dozens upon dozens of locations to elope at in the summer in Flagstaff but these are just a few of my favorites! Keep in mind that it’s important to Leave No Trace and follow all Coconino National Forest rules when it comes to getting married on public lands! 

Elopement Pro Tip:

We help navigate permitting and doing things the legal way when you elope in Flagstaff! 

• Lockett Meadow: Aspen forest, wildflowers in late July/August, 360° mountain views- it’s important to note that as of 2025 this trail is still CLOSED due to wildfire & flash flooding. There are talks of it reopening in 2026.
• Buffalo Park: Quick access with sweeping mountain views + wildflowers. This is a popular, family-friendly location. 
• Snowbowl: Epic mountain views, wildflowers in August, scenic gondola rides, & gorgeous aspen groves. 

5 Tips for Planning a Summer Elopement in Flagstaff, Arizona

1. Always have a backup plan in case of rain or wildfire.
2. Book accommodations in the heart of Flagstaff, not one of the little towns outside. 
3. Plan for traffic on the weekends- we suggest eloping on a weekday.
4. Bring layers for cooler evenings.
5. HYDRATE! Elevation sickness is a very real thing! 

A Summertime Elopement in Flagstaff Overlooking Sedona 

Rachel and Tom got married in one of my favorite local’s secret location in Flagstaff right at the beginning of summer. They invited their closest family to travel from New York to join them on their adventure. We lucked out with a rainy Spring that made the forest extra green and lush, and even some early wildflowers! It was a very windy day but overall the temperatures were comfortable, there were hardly other people on the trails, and there weren’t any active wildfires so it was a WIN in my book! 

If you love the looks of this location we suggest sticking to summertime and autumn due to the road closing in the winter and spring! 

Want more inspiration for planning your Flagstaff wedding? Check out our full Flagstaff Wedding Guide! 

Want our team to help plan your day in the pines? Fill out a contact form to start your adventure with the Wilder West team!