Finding Our Forever in the Pines: An Engagement Session at Jordan Pines


Nestled at a higher elevation, Jordan Pines provides a perfect escape with towering pines, lush green meadows, and dramatic mountain peaks. The late summer/early fall light filtering through the trees gave us that beautiful, golden glow that makes every moment feel like a scene from a movie.


Intimate Moments Under the Canopy

The dense forest of pines offered a beautiful contrast to the bright, open sky. The closeness of the trees creates a little private world. There is a boardwalk, and lots of other areas where we can run off .


Sunset & Sweetness

As the sun began to dip, the light became absolutely dreamy. In one of the shots, the sun flare gave a cinematic effect as they held hands, foreheads touching, focused only on each other. That moment of quiet connection, bathed in golden light, perfectly sums up the excitement and tenderness we feel.


Playful Adventures in the Meadow

We took a break from the deep woods and found a gorgeous open meadow with a mountain view. It was the perfect spot to let loose and have the couple be themselves! From laughing together while strolling through the tall grass to a playful lift that showcased the stunning mountain landscape behind them—these moments were full of joy and genuine connection. We even took a few minutes to relax, lying in the grass, just soaking up the last bits of the golden hour.


Planning Your Visit & Important Notes

If you're dreaming of your own photo session at Jordan Pines, here are a few key tips we learned to help you plan:

Location Access Fees: Starting in March of 2025 big cottonwood started implementing parking passes. They vary from National park park passes, to Uinta Forest Pass, 1 to 3 day passes for $10 or 7 day pass for $20


Leave Your Furry Friends at Home: This is a crucial regulation! Big Cottonwood Canyon is part of the protected Salt Lake City Watershed, and dogs and other domestic pets are strictly prohibited throughout the canyon. Please plan accordingly, as heavy fines are enforced.


Timing is Key: The location is extremely popular. To avoid crowds and traffic, I highly recommend scheduling your shoot on a weekday rather than a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday or sunrise. The light is beautiful during "golden hour" right before sunset, but getting there early help you miss the crowd.

Close-up of hands tenderly embracing, showing wedding ring and pink nail polish.
Couple lying together in tall grass during misty afternoon.
Intimate couple moment backlit by golden sunlight showing tender connection.
Playful couple dancing and laughing together in mountain meadow.
A playful couple dances together on a mountain boardwalk surrounded by evergreen trees.
Close-up shots showing gentle hand-holding moments against a natural backdrop.
Artistic silhouette of hands reaching toward each other against forest backdrop.
A couple shares tender moments together on a scenic mountain trail.
Wide landscape shot of mountains and forest with two people in the distance.
Intimate couple portraits captured against a backdrop of mountain scenery and evergreen trees.
Dancing and joyful moments shared on a mountain path with scenic views.
Detail shot of hands with engagement ring against soft pink sweater and white clothing.
Playful couple poses and interactions captured in a mountain setting.
Couple walking hand in hand through a scenic mountain meadow.
Black and white portraits capturing intimate moments between a couple.

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