Memory Grove Park Photography Location Guide | Utah Photography Locations

After having several family sessions at Memory Grove Park near the Utah State Capitol recently I knew this had to be my next location guide! (Especially since it’s been a while since I’ve written one…) Anytime I’m looking for a location to recommend I look for a large variety in a small space and this definitely fits that bill! In this guide, I’ll cover the basic information you should know about this location, the pros and things to consider, my favorite photo locations, and insider tips! Let’s get into it!

Information on the Location
ADDRESS: 300 N Canyon Rd, Salt Lake City, UT 84103
COST: Free!

Memory Grove Park is located to the east of the Utah State Capitol off Canyon Rd at the base of City Creek Canyon. Throughout the park, there are several areas with mature trees providing great shade, a couple of different bridges, a creek running through it, and blossoming trees during the spring! This park is dedicated to Utah’s fallen military members and veterans, and also has an off-leash dog area at the back of the park.

Pros About This Location

Perfect mix of urban and nature. There are tons of mature trees lining the walking paths, 2 different bridges crossing the creek running through the park, a waterfall near the back, and various pieces of architecture spread throughout the park. The bridge near the waterfall is covered in gorgeous green ivy providing the perfect backdrop from a bunch of different angles!
Proximity to the Capitol. Memory Grove Park is within walking distance from the Utah State Capitol making this an ideal spot if there are multiple locations included with your package!
It’s located in a little valley. Due to this, you’re able to start a little earlier than the recommended one hour before sunset making this perfect for families with littles!

Things to Consider About This Location

Parking. There is limited street parking located on Canyon Rd leading up to the park as well as parking on the east side of the Capitol building. There is a pathway that takes you down to the park from the east side of the Capitol making parking up there a bit more convenient if you’re up for the 5ish minute walk. Due to the parking situation I recommend arriving 5-15 minutes early to allow for adequate time to find your photographer.
Off-leash portion of the park. At the back of the park there is an off-leash dog park making this park extremely dog friendly! Memory Grove Park is a great option if you’re looking for a pet friendly location. If anyone involved in the session is averse to dogs in any way, this is something to be aware of and consider before choosing this location.
Popularity. Due to it’s proximity to Downtown Salt Lake, this park can get pretty busy especially on the weekends. While we are able to work our magic and work around people as photographers, this may not be the ideal location for everyone. During the week the park is a lot less busy than on the weekends, especially when there is a special event happening.

Best Photo Locations

Tree-lined path near the front. On the east side of the park just north of the houses outside the park boundary, there is a gorgeous path lined with mature trees. During the spring these trees have stunning white blossoms and during the summer and full of green leaves. There is adequate shade here for smaller families if starting earlier in the day as well!
Stairs leading up to the Capitol. On the west side of the park there are huge concrete steps leading up to the Capitol building with the plant covered hill behind. Typically, you do have to be quick at this location due to people actually using the steps, but they are perfect for grand walking shots!
The meditation temple. Located on the east side of the park in roughly the middle, there is a gorgeous meditation temple with plant lined stairs leading up to it. Both the stairs leading up to the temple and the temple itself provide a stunning backdrop for both urban and nature photos!
The stone bridge. A short walk towards the back of the park from the meditation temple is where you’ll find the stone bridge! I love having families walk across the bridge for more candid photos as well as using the bridge as a backdrop for more posed photos!
Lastly, the pathway leading up to the off-leash area. The pathway is bordered by the creek on one side and some mature trees on the other! I love how lush and green this specific area of the park is! The pathway allows for some adorable candid photos.

INSIDER TIPS

Park on the east side of the Capitol and walk down. Because the street parking is so limited, planning on parking at the Capitol gives you adequate time to find a place to park and find your photographer in time to start your session. If you’re wearing shoes that aren’t suitable for a well-paved trail and shoes, I recommend bringing a pair to walk down in and change before your session!
Along with the previous tip, arrive 10-15 minutes before your session to allow for plenty of time to find a parking spot! Especially during prom season finding a parking spot can be a bit tricky regardless of where you choose to park.
Need a bathroom? Head to the little building located on the northwest corner of the park just past the event center!