Your Go-To Resource for an Unforgettable Colorado Elopement Experience
Are you dreaming of a wildly romantic and scenic elopement in the heart of the Rockies? Look no further. Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) and nearby Estes Park offer the perfect blend of majestic mountain views, alpine lakes, and cozy mountain town charm for couples looking to tie the knot in a meaningful and intimate way. Whether you’re planning a two-person adventure elopement or a small wedding with your closest loved ones, this guide is your ultimate resource.
As a Colorado elopement & wedding photographer, I’ve captured many love stories in RMNP and Estes Park, and I’m here to help you plan your day with ease and intention. It’s one of my most favorite places in Colorado!
🌲 Why Elope in Rocky Mountain National Park?
Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most iconic places to elope in Colorado. With over 400 square miles of protected wilderness, stunning mountain peaks, waterfalls, and crystal-clear alpine lakes, it’s no wonder this is a top elopement destination for adventurous couples.
Plus, Estes Park, the charming mountain town just outside the park, is the perfect home base for your elopement experience, offering cozy cabins, luxury lodges, local eats, tons of activities, and even some haunted (oooo spooky) places!
📋 RMNP Elopement Permits & Rules
To get married inside Rocky Mountain National Park, you must secure a wedding permit through the National Park Service. (hint: I can help you with all of this)! Here’s what you need to know:
- Permit Fee: $300
- Booking Window: Up to 1 year in advance; spots are limited to 60 weddings per month, so book early!
- Guest Limit: Varies by location, usually between 2–30 people
- Allowed Ceremony Locations: There are 12 designated ceremony sites in the park (see below)
- No decorations, chairs, arches, or amplified music allowed
📍 Best Places to Elope in Rocky Mountain National Park
Here are a few of my favorite designated ceremony locations in RMNP:
- Sprague Lake – Gorgeous lake with mountain views, wheelchair accessible, up to 15 guests
- Bear Lake – One of the most iconic spots, best for sunrise, 20-person limit
- Moraine Park – Open meadow with panoramic views, especially stunning in fall, up to 30 guests
- 3M Curve – A hidden gem with jaw-dropping mountain backdrops, 15-person limit
- Hidden Valley – Open year-round and great for winter elopements, up to 30 guests
- Lilly Lake – Peaceful lake with sweeping views of Longs Peak; multiple ceremony spots available (including Lily Lake Dock, Lily Lake Trail, and Lily Lake Southside); capacity ranges from 10–30 guests depending on site
For couples wanting a more adventurous feel (like hiking to a mountaintop), we can plan a separate photo session before or after your ceremony, just remember, ceremonies must happen at designated sites with permits.
🏔️ Where to Stay in Estes Park
You’ll find everything from luxury lodges to rustic cabins in Estes Park. Here are a few photographer-approved places to stay:
- Della Terra Mountain Chateau – A romantic, adults-only luxury retreat right by RMNP
- YMCA of the Rockies – Ideal for family stays or wedding party accommodations
- The Stanley Hotel – Historic and iconic (yes, The Shining was inspired here)
- Estes Park Cabins – Private, cozy cabins with fireplaces and mountain views
🌲 1. Romantic Cabins for Two
- Evergreens on Fall River
Private riverside cabins just minutes from the RMNP entrance. Full kitchens, cozy fireplaces, and outdoor hot tubs make this a dreamy escape.
evergreensonfallriver.com - Boulder Brook on Fall River
Adults-only retreat with spacious suites and cabins tucked along Fall River. Ideal for quiet mornings and couples photos by the water.
boulderbrook.com - Crags Lodge
Historic mountain lodge with charming individual units, perfect for couples who love that rustic Colorado vibe.
cragslodge.com
🏡 2. Group-Friendly Cabins & Lodges
- Solitude Cabins
Modern, fully equipped cabins with plenty of room for small groups or families. Great for hosting a pre- or post-elopement gathering.
solitudecabins.com - Lazy R Cottages
Just one mile from RMNP, these cozy cottages can sleep 2–14 people depending on the unit. A good mix for couples and groups alike.
lazyrcottages.com - Aspen Winds on Fall River
Beautiful riverfront cabins and suites, some with two bedrooms—great for couples traveling with parents or a few close friends.
aspenwinds.com - YMCA of the Rockies – Estes Park Center
Ideal for larger elopements or intimate weddings with guests. Offers rustic cabins, lodges, and even wedding venue options.
ymcarockies.org
🥾 Fun Things to Do in Estes Park & RMNP
Make your elopement more than just a ceremony—make it a full-on adventure. Some favorite local activities include:
- Hiking to Dream Lake or Emerald Lake for stunning photos
- Wildlife watching (especially elk in fall!)
- Riding the Estes Park Aerial Tramway
- Exploring local shops and eateries in downtown Estes Park
- Taking a scenic drive on Trail Ridge Road (open seasonally)
- Booking a couples massage or spa day
🕰️ Sample 8-Hour Elopement Day Timeline
Here’s a sample timeline to help you imagine your day. Feel free to make it your own!
10:00 AM – Getting Ready at Your Cabin
Cozy morning vibes in your Estes Park cabin. Candid photos of you getting dressed, writing vows, sipping coffee by the fire.
📍Evergreens on Fall River or Solitude Cabins
11:30 AM – First Look + Private Vow Exchange at Lily Lake
One of RMNP’s most romantic and peaceful spots. Share your first look and exchange personal vows surrounded by still water and Longs Peak views.
📍Lily Lake Dock or Southside
12:30 PM – Picnic Lunch with a View
Relax and soak it in with a mountaintop or lakeside picnic. Bring champagne, charcuterie, or grab a takeout picnic basket from Bird & Jim or Scratch Deli.
📍TBD scenic spot (I can help scout this!)
2:00 PM – Scenic Adventure Session
Drive Trail Ridge Road (weather permitting), wander through Moraine Park or Bear Lake, and capture dreamy portraits along the way.
This is your golden chance to take it all in—just the two of you, in one of the most breathtaking places on Earth.
4:00 PM – Brewery Break in Estes Park
Head back into town for a celebratory pint at Rock Cut Brewing Co. or Lumpy Ridge Brewing.
Kick back, laugh, and toast your marriage with local craft beer (and maybe a pretzel board).
5:30 PM – Sunset Ceremony or Champagne Toast at 3M Curve
If you’re inviting a few guests, now’s the time for a short and sweet ceremony. If you already exchanged vows privately, just pop some bubbly and soak in the alpenglow.
📍3M Curve for sunset mountain views
6:30 PM – Dinner in Town or Private Chef Experience
Wrap up your perfect day with dinner at SEASONED – An American Bistro or a private chef at your cabin for an intimate meal. Add twinkle lights and a mini cake for the dreamiest ending.
📸 Final Tips from Your Colorado Elopement Photographer
- Weekday elopements are best to avoid crowds (especially Monday–Thursday).
- Sunrise ceremonies offer the most private and beautiful light.
- Always check road and trail conditions before your day.
- Hire vendors who specialize in adventure elopements—they’ll understand the unique flow of the day.
And of course, I’ll be there to document every laugh, tear, and mountaintop kiss. 💍✨
Ready to Elope in RMNP or Estes Park?
Let’s make it official! If you’re dreaming of a Colorado elopement that feels adventurous, authentic, and completely you, I’d love to help you bring it to life. Whether you’re just starting to plan or ready to book, contact me here and let’s start creating your dream elopement day.
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