With jagged peaks that rise above the clouds, sparkling alpine lakes, and meadows full of wildflowers and wildlife, Rocky Mountain National Park is Colorado’s crown jewel. If you’re dreaming of an adventurous, soulful celebration surrounded by gorgeous nature, a Rocky Mountain National Park elopement is going to be epic!

I’m a Pacific Northwest & Colorado elopement photographer who loves helping free-spirited couples craft intentional days in breathtaking places. So in this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about eloping in RMNP, from the best time of year, travel tips, ceremony locations, and more!

Table of Contents

• Why Choose a Rocky Mountain National Park Elopement
• Best Time of Year to Elope in RMNP
• How to Travel to Your Rocky Mountain National Park Elopement
• Rocky Mountain National Park Elopement Locations
• My Fave Spots for Your Rocky Mountain National Park Wedding Photos
• Where to Stay in Estes Park
• Fun Things to Do During Your Elopement
• Getting Your Marriage License
• Getting Your Rocky Mountain National Park Wedding Permit
• Leave No Trace Principles
• Book Your Rocky Mountain National Park Elopement Photographer
• FAQs

Why Choose a Rocky Mountain National Park Elopement

RMNP is one of the most popular national parks in the U.S., and you can just see why. The diversity of landscapes here is nothing short of incredible! One minute you’re standing beside a mirror-like alpine lake at sunrise, and the next you’re wandering through golden aspen groves or standing on a windswept overlook with the entire Gore Range spread out in front of you.

It’s also perfect for couples who want those epic views without needing to hike 20 miles. Many of the best ceremony and portrait spots are just short walks from parking areas, making them accessible while still feeling wild and magical. Plus, Estes Park (the gateway town to RMNP) has tons of cozy cabins, lodges, and Airbnbs where you can get ready, relax, and celebrate.

Best Time of Year to Elope in RMNP

Time of Year

One of the most exciting things about RMNP is how different it feels in every season. And you can get married here any time of the year, it just depends on the type of vibe you’ve envisioned for your day.

In spring, the meadows start to thaw and wildflowers peek through, while snow still lingers on the peaks. It’s a quieter season, and you’ll often have the trails to yourself, but the weather is more unpredictable with a mix of snow, sunshine, and thunderstorms. Mornings and evenings can still be chilly.

Summer is when the park really comes alive. Wildflowers blanket the fields, alpine lakes sparkle, and Trail Ridge Road opens, giving you access to some of the most breathtaking high-elevation views in the state. Just know that afternoon thunderstorms are common, so sunrise ceremonies are your best bet for calm weather and soft light. Summer is also the busiest season, parking lots fill quickly, and trails also get crowded fast.

In fall, the aspen groves turn golden, the air gets crisp, and the elk begin their rut. Fall dates book up quickly, so it’s smart to apply for your permit well in advance. Winter is peaceful and magical. Snow covers the meadows, lakes freeze over, and the entire park feels still and serene. While higher roads close, lower-elevation spots like Sprague Lake make for beautiful snowy ceremonies. And if you’re up for it, winter portraits on snowshoes or skis can turn your elopement into a whole adventure.

Time of Day

Sunrise is absolutely magical in RMNP. The park is quieter, the light is dreamy, and you’ll often see the peaks glow pink in alpenglow. Sunset can be stunning too, but afternoons tend to bring more crowds and unpredictable thunderstorms in summer.

Time of Week

Always choose a weekday if you can! Parking is limited, and the park gets extremely busy on weekends. A midweek date will give you a much more relaxed and private experience. However, weekdays are likely going to be busy during peak season, as well, so we just have to make the best out of it! There are plenty of less popular nooks and trails where you can still steal private moments.

How to Travel to Your Rocky Mountain National Park Elopement

The closest major airport is Denver International Airport (DEN), about 1.5–2 hours from Estes Park. Once you land, I recommend renting a car or SUV (Trail Ridge Road climbs above 12,000 feet, so something reliable is best). Estes Park is your main hub for lodging, restaurants, and supplies, located right at the park’s east entrance.

There are three main entrances, each with its own vibe. Beaver Meadows is the most popular and closest to Estes Park, while Fall River offers another easy option nearby that’s slightly less crowded. On the other side of the Continental Divide, the Grand Lake Entrance brings you into the quieter west side of the park.

From May through October, the park requires a timed-entry reservation in addition to the standard entrance fee ($30 per vehicle). Your wedding permit will cover timed entry for the ceremony, but each guest still needs to pay their entrance fee when they arrive.

If you’re dreaming of exploring both sunrise and sunset in the park, I highly suggest booking a stay in Estes for a few nights so you can slow down and soak it all in.

Rocky Mountain National Park Elopement Locations

Rocky Mountain National Park has designated 13 specific sites for micro weddings and elopements, and permits cap group sizes at 15-30 people, depending on your chosen location. The number includes you, your guests, your officiant and your photographer, so keep that in  mind, too!

You also need to know that even when you get the permit, it doesn’t grant you exclusive use of the area. The area will remain open for public use alongside your ceremony. You’re also not allowed to bring any decorations, tents, arches, etc. You may be allowed to bring a few chairs for your guests who cannot stand for the duration of the ceremony.

With that out of the way, here are a few of my favorite Rocky Mountain National Park elopement locations (you can see the full list and all the rules here)

Sprague Lake

Sprague Lake is one of the most iconic elopement spots in the park, and for good reason. The short, flat trail is wheelchair accessible, and the backdrop of the Continental Divide reflecting in the lake is breathtaking. At sunrise, the peaks light up with alpenglow, making it one of the most magical spots in all of RMNP. It’s a designated ceremony site with group limits (15 people in summer, 30 in winter), making it perfect for intimate elopements.

3M Curve

Just a short drive from the Beaver Meadows Entrance, 3M Curve offers sweeping views of Longs Peak (the tallest mountain in the park) and the surrounding valley. The ceremony site is perched on a rocky outcrop, giving you that “on top of the world” feeling without needing to hike. Here you can have a maximum of 15 people.

Upper Beaver Meadows

If you’re dreaming of wide-open spaces framed by mountain peaks, Upper Beaver Meadows might be your perfect match. This meadow is expansive, golden in the fall, and lush green in summer, with wildflowers dotting the grasslands. Upper Beaver Meadows is also one of the larger ceremony sites in RMNP, allowing up to 30 people and 10 vehicles, so it’s a great option if you’re bringing a handful of loved ones with you. 

Moraine Park Discovery Center Amphitheater

The rustic amphitheater overlooks sprawling meadows with mountains in the background, and in the fall, this is one of the best places to hear elk bugling. It can accommodate up to 30 people, making it one of the more flexible options for couples who want to include a handful of guests.

This is also the only area in RMNP where you’re allowed to have an arch, so if that’s important for you, this is your spot!

Lily Lake 

With a loop trail circling the lake and multiple scenic spots for vows, Lily Lake is both easy to access and versatile. The southside picnic area is also the only location in the park where you can hold a small celebratory picnic or reception (with a separate permit). Imagine popping champagne by the lake with your closest people after your ceremony!

Note that Lily Lake Dock, Lily Lake Trail, and the Picnic area are three different areas, and one permit doesn’t grant you access to all the areas. 

Hidden Valley

Tucked away from some of the busier areas, Hidden Valley offers aspen groves, open grassy meadows, and a more private feel. It’s accessible year-round and feels especially magical in summer when the wildflowers are blooming, or in fall when the aspens turn golden. Hidden Valley allows for up to 30 people in your party.

My Fave Spots for Your Rocky Mountain National Park Wedding Photos

While official ceremonies are limited to the designated park areas, the rest of your portrait session can happen anywhere in the park. Some of my favorite photo spots are along the Trail Ridge Road. It is one of the most unforgettable parts of RMNP! 

Stretching 48 miles from Estes Park to Grand Lake, it climbs to over 12,000 feet and is the highest continuous paved road in the United States. Because of the elevation, Trail Ridge Road is only open seasonally (typically late May through mid-October, depending on snow conditions), but when it’s open, it’s a must for elopement portraits. And it makes for a fun road trip to celebrate the day as well!

Here are some of my favorite photo spots along the road!

Ute Trail

Starting right off Trail Ridge Road, this trail meanders across alpine tundra with endless 360° views of jagged peaks and valleys below. It’s just sky and mountains stretching as far as you can see! It’s especially magical at sunrise or sunset, when the light turns the tundra golden and you feel like you’ve stepped into another world.

Lava Cliffs

Perched along Trail Ridge Road at over 12,000 feet, Lava Cliffs is a dramatic roadside overlook that makes you feel like you’re standing on the edge of the earth. The jagged rock formations and sheer drop-offs are breathtaking, and the views stretch across the Continental Divide. This spot is easily accessible, making it perfect for couples who want those bold, rugged mountain shots without a hike.

Gore Range

Just a few minutes up the road from Lava Cliffs, Gore Range Overlook offers sweeping views of the Gore Range. These peaks are some of the most rugged and photogenic in Colorado! The light here at sunset is especially soft and golden, perfect for dreamy portraits that still capture the grandeur of the Rockies.

Alpine Ridge Trail

Right above the Alpine Visitor Center, this short but steep paved trail climbs to over 12,000 feet, where you’ll find jaw-dropping panoramic views. Because of the elevation, you’ll be surrounded by alpine tundra, and in early summer, wildflowers bloom across the rocky slopes.

Where to Stay in Estes Park

Most couples choose to stay in Estes Park, the gateway town right outside the Beaver Meadows and Fall River entrances. Here you’ll find cozy A-frame cabins, mountain lodges, riverside Airbnbs, and even the historic Stanley Hotel (for a little Shining thrill). On the west side, Grand Lake offers a quieter, lakefront atmosphere with charming rental homes and lodges.

If you’re bringing a dog, look for pet-friendly cabins or vacation rentals—you’ll need one of the designated dog-friendly ceremony sites, but you can still include your pup in your day!

You may like: How to Plan the Perfect Dog-Friendly Wedding Elopement

The Stanley Hotel

If you love history and a touch of drama, The Stanley Hotel is absolutely iconic. This historic hotel inspired Stephen King’s The Shining and has old-world charm with sweeping mountain views. It’s perfect if you want a grand, cinematic vibe paired with a bucket-list stay.

Romantic River Song Inn

This bed & breakfast is nestled by the Big Thompson River and feels intimate, cozy, and romantic. With wooded trails, garden nooks, and a quiet atmosphere, it’s an ideal retreat for couples who want a slower-paced, tucked-away feel.

Estes Park Resort

Right on the shores of Lake Estes, this resort combines mountain views with lakeside beauty. It has modern amenities, a spa, on-site dining, and plenty of space if you’re bringing a small group of family or friends. Sunrise over the lake here is absolutely breathtaking.

Fun Things to Do During Your Elopement

To make the most out of your big day, I really recommend doing something fun and meaningful together to celebrate! These are some ideas of things to do for your day in RMNP!

• Take a scenic drive on Trail Ridge Road. It is one of the highest paved roads in North America, crossing the Continental Divide with unforgettable overlooks.
• Hike to an Alpine Lake! There are many short hikes with big payoffs.
• Go wildlife watching. RMNP is famous for elk, especially during fall rut season, but you might also spot moose, marmots, and even bighorn sheep.
• Enjoy a horseback ride! Several outfitters in Estes Park offer guided horseback rides through the meadows and foothills.
• Pack a basket and enjoy a quiet picnic.
• Go kayaking or paddleboarding.
• Enjoy stargazing!
• Explore Estes Park. Browse downtown shops, grab ice cream, visit a local brewery, or ride the Estes Park Aerial Tramway for sweeping views.

Getting Your Marriage License

Getting legally married in Colorado is simple. You can apply for your license at any County Clerk’s Office, and there’s no waiting period—you can use it right away. The closest offices are located in Fort Collins and Estes Park. 

To get your marriage license, you’ll need to bring a valid ID. The marriage license fee is about $30, but it can vary depending on the county.  Colorado also allows couples to self-solemnize, which means you don’t even need an officiant or any witnesses if you’d rather keep your ceremony private.

Getting Your Rocky Mountain National Park Wedding Permit

Every wedding or elopement in RMNP requires a Special Use Permit. The fee is $300, and applications open one year in advance. These permits are limited—60 per month from May through October, and 40 per month in the quieter months—so applying early is key.

Your permit gives you a two-hour window at your ceremony site, and the rest of the day is open for exploring and taking portraits. Photographers and officiants are covered under the permit, but everyone else in your party still needs to pay their own entrance fee.

Ceremonies are intentionally simple and rustic. A few chairs are allowed for accessibility, but no arches, tables, tents, generators, or floral installations. It’s about celebrating surrounded by the park’s natural beauty, without distraction.

Leave No Trace Principles

Leave No Trace is a wonderful organization that aims to protect the outdoors by spreading awareness about sustainability practices. When on your epic adventure elopement in RMNP, be sure to respect the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace so that the beauty of this gorgeous National Park can stay wild and pristine for generations to come:

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
4. Leave What You Find
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
6. Respect Wildlife
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

Book Your Rocky Mountain National Park Elopement Photographer

Ready to plan your dream Rocky Mountain National Park elopement day? Hi, I’m Erica, a PNW & Colorado elopement photographer & planner. If you and your partner are looking to plan an epic elopement, I’m here to capture a day you’ll never forget! 

Be sure to check out my Colorado elopement packages and reach out to me via my inquiry form here! I can’t wait to explore this beautiful state while celebrating you and your partner’s beautiful love story. Let’s create an unforgettable day in the Rockies together!

FAQs

Can you get married in Rocky Mountain National Park?

Yes! With a Special Use Permit, you can hold a simple ceremony at one of the designated sites.

What are the ceremony size limits?

Up to 30 people, including the couple, officiant, photographer, and guests.

Which entrance is best for Rocky Mountain National Park?

The Beaver Meadows Entrance near Estes Park is most convenient for the majority of ceremony locations. However, you should check which entrance makes the most sense and is the closest to your elopement plans.

How much does it cost to elope in RMNP?

Eloping in RMNP can be as affordable or luxe as you’d like it to be. At minimum, you’d need to spend $300 permit + $30 entrance per vehicle + ~$30 marriage license. . Then add in things like your travel, lodging, florals, and of course photography. The beauty of eloping is that you can scale it up or down to fit your vision and budget! Most couples spend anywhere between $5,000 to $15,000 for an intentional, adventure-filled day.

Do we need to pay the park entrance fee?

Yes. Permits cover timed entry, but not the $30 entrance fee per vehicle.

When should I apply for a wedding permit?

Applications open one year in advance of the month you want to marry. Weekdays and off-season dates are your best bet for availability. Book your permit ASAP, because they go super quickly!

What’s included in the permit?

Your permit covers your ceremony window plus full-day access to roam around and capture your photos.

Can we bring our dog?

Yes, but only on leash and only at Moraine Park Discovery Center Amphitheater, Timber Creek Amphitheater, and Harbison Meadows. Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on other trails or any of the other ceremony sites.