FAQ

It’s one of our favorite places on the planet! And believe it or not, the most convenient among them.

Chloe’s been going to Boulder for more than 25 years since her fairy goddessmother, Blake Spalding, co-founded Hell’s Backbone Grill. Chloe spent one of the best summers of her life working at the restaurant and sleeping on Blake’s porch (by choice).

Adie made his first pilgrimage, solo, to Boulder in 2017, shortly after meeting Chloe in NYC. Boulder (and breakfast at HBG) stole his heart, or at least the bit Chloe hadn’t already run off with.

We’ve returned together many times, always to leave with our hearts (and bellies) full. Without even needing to discuss it, we each knew Boulder was the place we most wanted to share with all of you on our wedding day, and that Blake should marry us.

By April 1st. Because we are organizing housing, and housing in Boulder is a puzzle, we need to know who’s coming sooner than later.

You drive. Without traffic, Boulder, UT is about a 4.5-hour drive from Salt Lake City and a 5.5-hour drive from Las Vegas. The good news is both drives are very scenic! If you’re interested in carpooling, let us know when you RSVP. Heads up— there’s no taxi or Uber/Lyft in Boulder. Two-wheel drive vehicles are fine getting to and around Boulder. If you plan on adventuring in the area, we recommend all-wheel/four-wheel drive.

Important note: if you’re coming from Salt Lake, you MUST stop at one or both of the scenic overlooks on Boulder Mountain.

Boulder and the surrounding area are as magical as it gets. If you can, we encourage you to make the most of your trip and extend your stay in Southern Utah. As for wedding festivities, if at all possible, arrive by Friday afternoon.

Because housing in Boulder is extremely limited (it’s rural!), we are coordinating accomodations. When you RSVP, there’s a place to let us know your needs. Options include lodge, b&b, and motel rooms, as well as Airbnbs. The majority of you will be within walking distance of Hell’s Backbone Grill where all wedding activities will take place. Most rooms will be between $100/night and $250/night.

If you’re excited about sleeping under the stars, there’s amazing car-camping a short drive away. We’ll be happy to help any campers figure out where to go. One room at the Hell’s Backbone lodge will be reserved for campers to keep their party clothes in and to shower.

Outdoors! Activities will take place around the grounds of Hell’s Backbone Grill & Farm, with a tent for dining under.

Whatever makes you feel most festive! The vibe Friday night is dressy-casual. On Saturday, we’re bringing a bit of glamor to the desert (think cocktail attire— suits welcome but not required, ties very optional, dresses of all lengths). Sunday morning, anything goes (the bride may in pajamas). For all events, wear sensible shoes and bring layers.

If you’re looking for inspiration, think desert colors: sage green, sky blue, creamy sandstone, red rock, dusty rose, sunflower yellow.

Your guess is as good as ours! Most likely (hopefully!), it will be in the high 70s or low 80s during the day. That said, it could be in the 60s and stormy or in the 90s and scorching in the sun. Either way, because Boulder sits at 6,700 ft elevation and is a desert climate, it will cool off dramatically at night. Check the weather before you pack and come prepared (there is no shopping in Boulder).

Hell’s Backbone Grill has you covered! Please mention them in your RSVP.

Options are very limited. For coffee and breakfast, we highly recommend Little Bone food truck, serving Hell’s Backbone breakfast classics. Hills & Hollows Market has decent provisions, but we suggest bringing lunch fare and snacks with you to Boulder. If you’re driving to and from Salt Lake, Capitol Burger food truck in Torrey is a good option for lunch.

Our favorite activity in Boulder is eating at Hell’s Backbone Grill. The restaurant alone is worth a trip. If you can, come early or stay late to dine there on your own (they’re open for dinner every night except Tuesday and Wednesday). You’ll want to make a reservation well in advance.

Our second favoite way to spend time in Boulder is hiking. See below for recommended trails. Be cautious of heat at lower elevations and the possibility of (deadly) flash flooding in tight canyons. Pack plenty of water, sun protection, and layers. For our peace of mind and yours, please don’t wander too far on Saturday.

Several of the roads around Boulder are some of the most stunning in the nation. Scenic Byway 12 towards Escalante will blow your mind (Kiva Koffeehouse is a great destination). The Burr Trail into Capital Reef National Park will quickly have you driving through dramatic red rock (make a stop in the Singing Canyon).

The Hell’s Backbone property is lovely, with a bird sanctuary and big, shady trees. There will be lawn games, hammocks, and good company. We’ll be hanging out there all weekend!

So many options! Check out Lower Calf Creek, Upper Calf Creek (short & steep with an amazing swimming hole), and the Gulch. If it’s hot, hiking up on Boulder Mountain is nice; Bown’s Point is rugged with the reward of phenomenal views. If you’re looking for something more adventurous (not on Saturday!), reach out to Adie.

Coming from Las Vegas, Zion and Bryce National Parks are a scenic detour away. If you’re coming from Salt Lake, a more easterly route could take you via Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. Capital Reef National Park, which is right next to Boulder, is itself worth spending several days exploring. Boulder sits within the Escalante Grand Staircase National Monument where there is tons to see. Keep in mind, the heat tends to be intense in summer, especially at the lower elevations of some of these national parks. For anyone planning a longer trip, we’re happy to elaborate— email/text/call us!

If there’s someone special you want to bring as your date, let us know. Space permitting, we would be happy to have them there.

Your presence is your present (Adie can’t resist a pun). Truly, you making the trek to Boulder to celebrate with us means the world. No other gifts necessary.

We’re here! Please feel free to reach out.