Rocky Mountain National Park Elopement Guide for 2024
HOW TO ELOPE IN ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK
Having captured elopements in five different National Parks, Rocky Mountain National Park stands out as one of my favorites. Nestled in my home state of Colorado, this park boasts alpine vistas, cascading waterfalls, majestic rock ledges, expansive meadows, and breathtaking alpine lakes—providing an array of options for your perfect ceremony backdrop.
As Rocky Mountain National Park has become a sought-after wedding destination, certain rules must be followed by those seeking to marry in this scenic park. I’m here to provide you with the essential details on how to elope here safely, efficiently, and with plenty of fun!
For couples considering eloping in Rocky Mountain National Park, I believe it’s crucial to enlist the expertise of a local Rocky mountain national park elopement photographer who is familiar with Colorado elopements along with the permit process, prime locations, optimal times of day, scheduling, and trusted vendors. Not only will this ensure a relaxed experience, but they can also provide alternative options outside the park in case of any unforeseen issues.
5 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT ELOPING IN ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK
- Rocky Mountain National Park is a very popular location not only for elopements but weddings as well, so book your date ASAP! (Pro Tip: Look into a weekday elopement so you can get as much privacy as possible)
- Be prepared for traffic, and plan accordingly! Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most popular parks in the entire US with over 4,590,492 visitors last year according to NPS.gov . Make sure you are packed and well prepared so you can hit the parking lots and trails early to avoid the crowds and lines.
- The weather in Colorado and Rocky Mountain National Park is somewhat crazy and unpredictable. It can be snowing one minute and then bright and sunny the next, so be prepared and make sure to bring layers, rain coats, gloves, wind breakers, etc. to insure that you’ll be comfortable and able to be in the moment!
- Are you a nature enthusiast? This park is a haven for wildlife sightings! Keep your eyes peeled for deer, elk, mountain goats, moose, and if you’re fortunate, you might catch a glimpse of beavers busy at work!
- There are no pets allowed on the trails in Rocky Mountain National Park. Consider other locations in Colorado that are pet friendly if you want to include your furry friends!
BEST SEASONS FOR ELOPING IN ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK
Honestly, you can spend a good amount of time every month at Rocky Mountain National Park. It’s truly a place of many seasons, offering infinite choices depending on your vision, which is great for elopers. Since Colorado offers an infinite amount of sunshine (300 days, that is), you are likely to hit some bluebird days, even in the spring time. It really is an all-year destination for your elopement depending on how adventurous you are! The best time for hiking elopements is May through October when the trails are clear of snow. Most of the trails are available for snowshoeing during the winter if you are into those vibes! This park is very accessible for couples year round.
Keep on reading for a more thorough breakdown for best months to elope in Rocky Mountain National Park!
SPRING
I love spring elopements in Rocky Mountain National Park when the snow is melting away but you still have snow-capped peaks. You have some epic frozen lakes that are starting to show their cracks with the thaws. But the biggest bonus is you completely miss the summer crowds during the springtime. Winning!
SUMMER
Ah, summertime in Rocky Mountain National Park brings epic adventures, but also the influx of tourists and the revival of shuttle buses. While I adore summer, here’s a tip: Consider planning your elopement around sunrise and only sunrise. This way, you can avoid the hustle and bustle of shuttle chaos and enjoy a tranquil morning all to yourselves, away from the crowds, soaking up the serenity of the park in its untouched splendor.
FALL
Ready to be mesmerized by nature’s canvas? Rocky Mountain National Park is a haven for fall foliage enthusiasts, and if you choose to elope here, you’ll see why. The vibrant hues of orange and yellow leaves will leave you speechless (pun intended!), offering the perfect backdrop as you wander through the majestic aspen trees, savoring every moment of your elopement in this stunning landscape.
WINTER
Winter is a true spectacle in the park and one of my favorite times to capture elopements. You really get away from the tourists, but you also get to enjoy the backdrops as if you’re in a snow globe. Snowshoeing on a frozen lake? Sign me up! Keep in mind, Dream Lake is the ever-so-popular elopement spot in Rocky Mountain National Park, but you CAN’T get married there.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN MY ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK ELOPEMENT PACKAGES?
Rocky Mountain National Park Elopement Pricing:
- STARTING @ $4,600 – Check out my Colorado elopement packages!
- ALL-DAY COVERAGE: Rocky Mountain National Park draws visitors from across the globe for its breathtaking vistas and rugged beauty. Let’s spend the day exploring the park together, capturing stunning photos at all the must-see locations!
- ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK WEDDING PERMIT AND MAP INFORMATION: Once you’ve booked, I’ll guide you through the permit process and help secure your ideal elopement location within Rocky Mountain National Park.
- ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK LOCATION IDEAS: After securing your permit, I’ll collaborate with you to develop a timeline ensuring we don’t miss any of my favorite spots in the park. We’ll tailor it to your preferences, considering factors like distance, elevation, scenery, and unique features.
- VENDOR RECOMMENDATIONS: I’ve partnered with a fantastic group of vendors specializing in Rocky Mountain National Park elopements.
- PHOTO TEASERS: Ready for some next day photo teasers to share with loved ones and on social media platforms? You’ll get those!
- ONLINE PHOTO GALLERY: You’ll receive an online gallery 6-8 weeks after your elopement, showcasing all your fully edited photos from your Rocky Mountain National Park adventure! You can even collaborate with my wife to create a personalized album.
- WEDDING CONSULTING: I’ll be by your side every step of the way, taking care of the planning and coordination for your Rocky Mountain National Park elopement. You can relax and enjoy your special day without worrying about the details and I’ll help you plan out fun elopement activities too!
DO YOU NEED A PERMIT TO GET MARRIED IN ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK?
Eloping in Rocky Mountain National Park? Let’s delve into the permit details! Like any other National Park, Rocky Mountain National Park requires a wedding permit. But here’s the deal: Each National Park has its own permit process, and RMNP’s can be more challenging than others. The main obstacle you’ll encounter is securing your preferred date, as permits per month are limited. Therefore, it’s crucial to secure your date and location promptly.
Once you secure a permit, you’ll already know that ceremonies are confined to specific locations within Rocky Mountain National Park. Because you are in Colorado, you can still self-solemnize your own marriage. Nevertheless, you have the freedom to traverse various areas of the park during the day, allowing you to fully embrace the Rocky Mountain National Park wedding experience. This adaptability caters perfectly to couples aiming to include friends and family in drive up accessible spots while also pursuing more daring backdrops for their wedding photos!
Other things to remember about your Rocky Mountain National Park wedding permit:
- There are thirteen designated wedding ceremony locations within Rocky Mountain National Park. There can be no more than two elopements/ceremonies per location- per day. There can be no more than six ceremonies within the park per day.You can schedule ceremonies up to a year in advance or as close as 7 days before the event. While last-minute requests may be considered, there’s no guarantee of accommodation.
- Both the photographer and officiant are included under the wedding permit
- Please collaborate with your elopement photographer to acquire your permit. Instances where permits are not obtained can negatively impact the process for future couples. Additionally, a photography permit is required for non-wedding photoshoots.
- Please adhere to all Leave No Trace Principles while eloping in RMNP. Remain on designated paths and within specified areas for your Rocky Mountain National Park elopement.
- The Special Use Permit necessitates a non-refundable administrative fee of $300 for each wedding application. IMPORTANT: Please refrain from sending the fee with your application. Instead, you will receive an email containing payment instructions upon acceptance of your application.
2024 UPDATE: All dates for the months of April through October 2024 are fully booked.
ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK ALTERNATIVES
Unlike most national parks, Rocky Mountain is situated in the heart of one of the most beautiful states: Colorado! So if you can’t secure a permit or are struggling with planning or finding lodging, you can always pivot and relocate your elopement to another location in the state or nearby. That’s why collaborating with a local expert will greatly enhance your experience, as they can guide you to the best elopement spots in Colorado, connect you with vendors, and provide insider knowledge about all the cool things in the state!
THE BEST LODGING FOR YOUR ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK ELOPEMENT
Estes Park is the closest town to Rocky Mountain National Park, which has plenty of lodging options including: AirBnB’s, log cabins, and even the Stanley Hotel from the Shining! You can also stay near Nederland or Eldora if you are up for a scenic drive and take in the beauty of Longs Peak as you come in through Estes via CO-72. If you are making the trek over from Granby, I commend you and wish you luck!
Some things to consider when looking for lodging for your Rocky Mountain National Park Elopement:
- When choosing lodging, prioritise proximity to the park. The last thing you want on your wedding day is spending hours driving! I would not suggest staying out in Boulder since the drive from there can be sketch in the dark.
- Make sure your AirBnB allows a large number of guests if you plan on throwing a celebration afterward.
- Take into account your personal preferences: Rocky Mountain National Park provides a diverse range of lodging choices to accommodate various tastes and budgets. Whether you fancy rustic cabins, quaint bed and breakfasts, or contemporary hotels, you’re sure to find the perfect fit.
- Plan ahead and book your accommodations as soon as you get your permit. Sought-after tourist spots such as Rocky Mountain National Park tend to fill up fast, particularly during peak seasons. Ensure you secure your preferred lodging by making reservations well in advance!
TRAVELING TO ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK FOR YOUR ELOPEMENT
GETTING TO ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK
Cruising to Rocky Mountain National Park opens up a world of flexibility and ease, especially for adventurers lugging around their gear or plotting to conquer multiple corners of the park. Picture this: you’ve got options! With entrances like Estes Park on the east side and Grand Lake on the west side, you’re primed for exploration.
Route from Denver via Boulder/Hwy 36:
Estimated Time: 1.5–2 hours
Directions: Head north on I-25, then take Exit 217 onto US Hwy 36 toward Estes Park.
Route from Granby via Trail Ridge Road:
Estimated Time: 1.5–2 hours
Directions: Take I-70 to exit 232 (Empire), then follow US Hwy 40 to Granby and continue on US Hwy 34 to Grand Lake.
Note: During winter, US Hwy 40 may close or have restrictions due to snow.
TIMED ENTRY AT ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK
I would suggest having a car and getting into the park as early as possible. Starting from May 26 until October 22, visitors must obtain Park Access Timed Entry Permits to enter all areas of RMNP, except for locations along Bear Lake Road, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. If you can’t get a permit or find a parking spot before then, I would suggest taking the shuttle or hitchhiking in!
WHERE CAN I ELOPE IN ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK?
While some couples may find satisfaction in holding their ceremonies at designated locations, others may have their hearts set on places not listed. Eloping in Rocky Mountain National Park provides an exciting workaround! Opting for an elopement in the park allows you to tie the knot at one of the 12 designated spots and later capture stunning photos in a different location. This option is ideal for couples who want to involve friends and family in an easily accessible ceremony location while still seeking a more adventurous backdrop for their wedding photos. The photography permit grants you 24 hours of coverage for multiple locations, ensuring ample time to capture every moment of your adventure elopement, even if it’s in another part of the park.
As mentioned earlier, you can say “I do” in one location and create memories elsewhere afterward.
WHERE CAN YOU GET MARRIED IN ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK?
LILY LAKE DOCK
Are you looking for views of the tallest 14er in the front range of Colorado? Then Lily Lake Dock is the perfect backdrop for your elopement! Located just 6.5 miles from Beaver Meadows Visitor Lodge on Highway 7, Lily Lake Dock features a lake, 360-degree mountain views, a walking trail, and is wheelchair accessible!
- Ceremony size (max.): 10
- Number of vehicles (max.): 10
SPRAGUE LAKE
I absolutely love a great water backdrop and Sprague Lake certainly does not disappoint. Located 7 miles from the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center on Bear Lake Road, this wedding location gives a dramatic view of the mountains and lake, and features a dock, knoll, wooden foot bridge, and is wheelchair accessible. Keep in mind, this area can get very busy, so consider a sunrise ceremony if a private and intimate ceremony is important to you!
- Ceremony size (max.): 60
- Number of vehicles (max.): 10
3M CURVE
3M Curve is 3.5 miles from the Beaver Meadows Visitor Lodge and features a large rock outcrop overlooking mountains, meadows, and moraines. This is great for couples looking to incorporate a small ground of friends and family on their day.
- Ceremony size (max.): 15
- Number of vehicles (max.): 3
LILY LAKE TRAIL & LAKE PICNIC AREA
Located off Highway 7, just 6.5 miles from Beaver Meadows Visitor Lodge, both the Lily Lake Trail and Lily Lake Southside Picnic Area are accessible by a ¼ mile hike up the trail. Once you get to the location, you will be greeted by a knoll overlooking the lake,aspen trees and Longs Peak!
- Ceremony size (max.): 20 (Lily Lake Trail) & 30 (Lily Lake Southside Picnic Area)
- Number of vehicles (max.): 10
BEAR LAKE NATURE TRAIL
The Bear Lake Nature Trail is 11 miles from the Beaver Meadows Visitors Lodge and has mountain views, and aspen trees. This location is extremely busy all year round and has date requirements for all ceremonies! (see below)
- Ceremony size (max.): 20
- Number of vehicles (max.): 5
HIDDEN VALLEY
Hidden Valley is one of the most beautiful locations in Rocky mountain national park, especially come the warmer months! Located 6 miles from Beaver Meadows Visitor Lodge, this ceremony location features aspen and pine trees, summer wildflowers, a wooden foot bridge and is wheelchair accessible!
- Ceremony size (max.): 100 (specific times)
- Number of vehicles (max.): 20 (anytime)
UPPER BEAVER MEADOWS
Are you looking for views of the tallest 14er in the front range of Colorado? Then Lily Lake Dock is the perfect backdrop for your elopement! Located just 6.5 miles from Beaver Meadows Visitor Lodge on Highway 7, Lily Lake Dock features a lake, 360-degree mountain views, a walking trail, and is wheelchair accessible!
- Ceremony size (max.): 10
- Number of vehicles (max.): 10
MORAINE PARK AND VISITOR CENTER
The rustic Moraine Park Visitor Center Amphitheater is a beautiful ceremony backdrop in itself, but the wedding location also features stunning pine trees, a view of Morain Park and Longs Peak, and the cutest wooden benches. Approximately 2.5 miles from the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center on Bear Lake Road.
- Ceremony size (max.): 60 (summer) & 100 (winter)
- Number of vehicles (max.): 10
TIMBER CREEK AMPHITHEATER
For those looking for a more intimate amphitheater setting for their ceremony, the Timber Creek Campground Amphitheater is located on the west side of the park and has partial views of the Colorado River. This location is wheelchair accessible and there is a large campground located nearby if you want to incorporate Smor’es and star gazing into your trip!
- Ceremony size (max.): 20
- Number of vehicles (max.): 5
CAN I ELOPE IN ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK WITH FAMILY?
Rocky Mountain National Park is a treasure trove for family elopements, boasting an array of designated ceremony spots that promise unforgettable backdrops. But there still lies the opportunity to craft a personal adventure by yourselves where you can enjoy breathtaking photos of your Rocky Mountain elopement. Explore my “Alpine Elopement Package,” which is designed to blend adventure with intimacy!
Picture this: a rendezvous at sunrise, embarking on a sunrise hike where you’ll share private moments – a first look, heartfelt vows, and timeless portraits against a backdrop of majestic peaks at the park. Later, as the day unfolds, reunite with your families at one of the park’s designated ceremony spots where you can exchange vows once more and capture cherished family portraits.
For those seeking to split the day, I present the Sunrise-Sunset elopement Package – an opportunity to split your elopement day into two halves of pure magic. Begin amidst the iconic beauty of Dream Lake at dawn and conclude your journey at the serene Trail Ridge Road as the sun sets. Embrace the freedom to craft your Rocky Mountain elopement, where every moment is as breathtaking as the landscape itself!
If you want to read more about the topic, you can check out how to plan an elopement with family for more ideas.
GETTING MARRIED IN ESTES PARK
I recommend handling all your legal paperwork in Estes Park as it’s the nearest town to the park. If you’re driving and have time for lunch, you can also obtain your license in Boulder, offering a chance to explore another town along the way. Both options are incredibly convenient!
Here is the step-by-step process for how to get married in Telluride:
BOOK YOUR PERMIT & DATE
First things first, you have to get your permit before even jumping to the next step and making an appointment at the courthouse.
PICK UP YOUR LICENSE:
You can pick up your license at the Estes Park Clerk and Recorder
Office – 1601 Brodie Ave. – Estes Park, CO 80517 – is open Hours: 8am – 4:30pm
GET MARRIED IN ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK
Feel free to elope in RMNP! Just remember, there’s no waiting period to activate your marriage license, but you must return it within 63 days after your ceremony in the park!
ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER
Hey there, I’m Sean, and I’m super excited about helping you elope in Rocky Mountain National Park! I’m a free-spirited Colorado resident who’s all about exploring this amazing world and making connections with awesome people like you.
I totally get how meaningful and personal this decision is because my wife and I eloped to Northern Ireland ourselves. So when you trust me to be a part of your special day, I take that trust seriously, ensuring you have an unforgettable experience from beginning to end.
My journey has brought me to Colorado, where I can pursue my passion for the outdoors and share that love with couples on their elopement adventures. It’s such a fantastic experience, and I’m thrilled every time I get to capture those magical moments here in Colorado.
Sound like the perfect match? Check out my packages and reach out if you’re ready to elope in Colorado!
FAQ
Can we bring guests to our elopement in Rocky Mountain National Park?
Yes, most of the designated ceremony spots are super guest-friendly and easily accessible. However, if you are doing an adventure session where you are hiking in for photos, I would suggest keeping the guest count down to minimize the environmental impact. Also make sure to bring your photography permit with you to wherever you take photos inside the park!
What are the best locations for elopements within Rocky Mountain National Park?
That really depends because Rocky Mountain National Park is such an ideal place for elopements, but some of the most popular spots for photos include Dream Lake, Sprague Lake, 3m Curve, Lily Lake, and Emerald Lake. Some of these spots also don’t allow ceremonies, so keep that in mind! I also provide each Rocky Mountain National Park elopement guidance on choosing the perfect spot based on your preferences and the time of year. But keep in mind that permits are hard to snag in the park, so you might not get your first choice!
Will you help us obtain our permit to elope in Rocky Mountain National Park?
Yes, I will help you obtain your permit for your elopement in Rocky Mountain National Park. You can refer to the permit process above in this article.
How do we find vendors and services for our Rocky Mountain National Park elopement?
I send over a vendor guide after booking as part of my Rocky Mountain National Park elopement packages. Vendors and services include officiants, videographers, hair and makeup artists, and florists who specialize in elopements within Rocky Mountain National Park. The guide also offers tips for coordinating with vendors and ensuring a seamless elopement experience. I still always recommend interviewing a number of different vendors and going over your timeline and your vision to make sure everything lines up!
So many amazing tips! I really want to visit Colorado now!
Such a beautiful place, def a bucket list item!
Love all these tips for couples looking to elope in Rocky Mountain National Park!!
Such great tips for couples eloping!
This information on eloping in RMNP is GOLD! You did such a good job laying out the information!
great tips and really helpful information on how to elope in rocky mountain national park!
This is such a helpful article for couples and photographers alike! I had no idea how much planning went into an RMNP wedding.
This is such a helpful list! I wish I had known about this when I got married!
These are such great tips! Rocky Mountain NP is an amazing place to elope so I hope that this encourages more couples to do so!
I love how thorough this is! Perfect blog for someone looking to elope in the Rocky Mountains