So, you’re considering a Rocky Mountain National Park elopement? Hell yes. You’ve just found one of the most breathtaking, intimate places to get married in Colorado—and you’re in the right place to figure out exactly how to make it happen.
Eloping in Rocky Mountain National Park isn’t just about picking a gorgeous backdrop (though, trust me, you have plenty to choose from). There are permits to secure, locations to consider, best times to go, and a few national park rules to keep in mind. But don’t worry—I’m here to break it all down for you in one complete guide.
In this blog, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to elope in RMNP, including:
✔ The best ceremony locations inside the park
✔ How to get your wedding permit (and why you need one)
✔ What time of year is best (spoiler: there’s no wrong answer)
✔ Where to stay, sample timelines and extra tips to make your day stress-free
By the end, you’ll have everything you need to start planning your Rocky Mountain National Park elopement with confidence—and if you need a photographer who knows RMNP inside and out, I’ve got you covered.
Let’s get into it.
Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) is one of the most stunning and accessible national parks in the U.S., located in northern Colorado. Sitting between the charming mountain towns of Estes Park and Grand Lake, RMNP offers over 265,000 acres of alpine lakes, rugged peaks, and winding trails. If you’re eloping here, you and your guests will have plenty of options for lodging, dining, and exploring before and after the big day.
Whether you’re a local or traveling in from out of state, here’s how far RMNP is from some major cities:
Estes Park, on the east side of the park, is the most common home base for elopements. Grand Lake, on the west side, is smaller and quieter, but just as beautiful.
If you’re flying in, here are the best airport options:
Denver International Airport is your best bet, with tons of rental car options and direct flights from all over the country.
No matter where you’re coming from, there are a few key things to know about driving into RMNP:
Once you’re in Estes Park or Grand Lake, getting to the park is straightforward, but parking can be difficult in peak summer months. If you’re eloping during the busy season (June–September), plan to arrive early.
Rocky Mountain National Park is a well-loved destination for elopements because it’s easy to access yet feels wild and remote—perfect for couples who want jaw-dropping scenery without an extreme trek. Whether you’re road-tripping from nearby or flying in for the experience, the journey to RMNP is just the beginning of an unforgettable wedding day.
So, you’re thinking about eloping in Rocky Mountain National Park? Hell yeah, you are. And honestly, it’s one of the best places you could pick. Whether you want to hike up to an alpine lake, say your vows in a quiet mountain meadow, or just soak up some unreal views with your person, RMNP has it all. Here’s why it’s a killer spot for your elopement:
Bottom line? Rocky Mountain National Park is the perfect mix of wild, accessible, and downright beautiful. If you and your person love the outdoors, value intimate experiences, and want a day that’s all about you, this is your spot. RMNP has everything you need for an unforgettable elopement experience.
Eloping in Rocky Mountain National Park comes with some logistics to figure out—nothing crazy, but definitely things you’ll want to know before the big day. Here are some of the most common questions couples ask when planning their RMNP elopement:
Yes! But RMNP has specific designated ceremony sites where weddings and elopements are allowed. You can’t just pop up anywhere and say your vows (as much as we’d love that). The park has a set list of locations where ceremonies are permitted, and you’ll need to apply for a special use permit to make it official.
Yep—a permit is required for all weddings and elopements, even if it’s just the two of you. I recommend snagging your permit as soon as you’ve picked a date to make sure you lock in your spot, see more details about permits below!
RMNP has a list of designated ceremony sites, each with different guest limits (ranging from just a couple of people to 30+ guests). These locations do change from time to time, so always double-check with the park’s website to see the most up-to-date list. I’ll go more in depth on specific locations further down in the blog post!
For the most part, no—dogs aren’t allowed on trails or ceremony sites in Rocky Mountain National Park. But there is one exception: Moraine Park Amphitheater is the only designated ceremony site in RMNP where dogs are allowed. If you’re set on having your pup be part of your elopement, this is your best option inside the park! Just keep in mind that they must be on a leash at all times.
Outside of that, dogs are only allowed in parking lots, campgrounds, and picnic areas, so if you want them involved in part of your day, we can always plan for some photos at a dog-friendly location nearby before or after your ceremony.
RMNP is one of the most visited national parks in the country, so yeah—it gets busy, especially in summer and fall. But don’t stress! If you elope at sunrise, on a weekday, or in the off-season (late fall to early spring), you’ll have a much better chance of finding quiet, intimate spots without the crowds.
It depends on what kind of vibe you’re going for:
Some spots are drive-up accessible, while others require a short walk or hike.
As long as you follow the park’s guidelines, it’s a pretty easy and stress-free process. If you have any other questions, I’ve got you—let’s plan the perfect elopement day for you!
Eloping in a national park means following a few extra rules—but I promise, it’s worth it. Rocky Mountain National Park has a permit system in place to help protect the land and keep things running smoothly for everyone who visits. If you’re eloping here, you’ll need a Special Use Permit for your ceremony, plus you and your guests will still need to pay park entry fees. Here’s everything you need to know to make sure you’re set up for a stress-free wedding day.
To have an official ceremony inside RMNP, you must apply for a Special Use Permit. This permit allows you to have your wedding at one of the park’s designated ceremony sites—but there are some rules to keep in mind.
RMNP only issues 60 wedding permits per month, and they fill up fast—especially in peak seasons. You can apply up to one year in advance, and I highly recommend doing it as early as possible, especially if you’re eloping in summer or fall.
The Special Use Permit costs $300 and is non-refundable.
RMNP has a limited number of designated wedding sites, and each has its own guest limit—see more on this below!
Parking is limited at most ceremony sites, and carpooling is highly recommended. No shuttle services are provided by the park for elopements, so plan accordingly if you have guests. Some locations (like Sprague Lake) require you to park in the main lot and walk a short distance.
Yes—your Special Use Permit does NOT cover park entry fees. Everyone attending your elopement (including you) will need to pay the standard park entrance fee or have a valid park pass.
In addition to your Special Use Permit, you and your guests will need to pay the park entry fee to enter RMNP. If you’re visiting during peak season, you might also need a timed entry reservation to access the park.
I know—permits sound like a hassle, but they’re not too bad if you plan ahead! The main things to remember: apply early, pick from the park’s designated locations, follow the rules, and make sure you and your guests have park entry passes. Once that’s squared away, you’re free to focus on what really matters—having the most incredible, stress-free, and beautiful elopement day in one of the most breathtaking places in the country.
If you need help navigating the permit process or figuring out which location is best for your elopement, I’ve got you friend—just reach out, and we’ll make this as easy as possible!
Rocky Mountain National Park is packed with insane views—but not every spot is perfect for an elopement. Most locations are easily accessible, and some require a short walk to reach. Whether you want an intimate ceremony by a lake, a mountain view, or a quiet meadow, RMNP has something for you. Here are my top 10 picks for the best elopement locations in the park:
NPS Photo / Ann Schnolau VIP
If you want stunning lake views, easy access, and an intimate ceremony spot, Sprague Lake is a top choice. This is one of the most popular elopement locations in RMNP, and for good reason—the glassy water reflects the surrounding mountains, making for a jaw-dropping backdrop.
If you want huge mountain views with an easy-to-reach location, 3M Curve is perfect. This spot is less crowded than some of the lakes and has wide-open views of Longs Peak and the surrounding valleys.
Hidden Valley is a forest-meets-meadow location with tons of space, making it one of the most versatile elopement spots in RMNP. It’s great for a small group ceremony or for couples who want a more secluded, peaceful spot.
Moraine Park Amphitheater is the ONLY designated ceremony site in RMNP where dogs are allowed! It’s a stunning open-air amphitheater with wooden benches and mountain views, perfect for a small wedding or elopement with guests.
Visit Estes Park
Bear Lake is one of the most iconic spots in RMNP, but it’s only available for weddings in winter to avoid the crazy summer crowds. If you’re down for a snowy, intimate elopement, this place is unreal.
NPS Photo / Ann Schonlau
For couples wanting a less crowded elopement spot with wide-open meadow views, Harbison Meadow is a hidden gem. Located on the west side of RMNP near Grand Lake, this spot has a peaceful, untouched feel.
Lily Lake is a calm, scenic spot with an easy trail circling the lake. It’s great for small ceremonies and offers beautiful reflections of the mountains in the water.
A peaceful meadow setting with mountain views, Upper Beaver Meadows is less crowded than some other spots, making it ideal for an intimate, private ceremony.
Located near Wild Basin, Copeland Lake is a peaceful, tucked-away location with gorgeous reflections of the surrounding mountains in the water.
Alluvial Fan is a unique waterfall spot that feels like a quarry due to it’s rocky features.
RMNP has so many epic elopement locations, and picking the right one depends on your vision. Outside of your ceremony, we have an entire park to explore on your elopement day. Need help narrowing it down and planning it all? Let’s chat and plan your dream day!
One of the best things about eloping in Rocky Mountain National Park? You’ve got tons of lodging options, whether you want a cozy cabin, a luxury lodge, or a campsite under the stars. Estes Park and Grand Lake are the two closest towns to RMNP, and each has its own vibe—Estes Park is the more popular, tourist-friendly option, while Grand Lake is quieter and more remote.
Here’s a breakdown of the best places to stay near RMNP:
For a cozy, private stay with stunning views, renting an Airbnb or VRBO is the way to go.
Estes Park has so many options for you to choose from, think cozy cabins with mountain views, secluded a-frames with hot tubs, and large chalets all within ~10 minutes of RMNP.
Grand Lake has incredible stays to choose from too, from lakefront cabins, luxury mountain lodges and even cozy tiny homes. Still keeping it close to RMNP, but less busy than Estes Park.
For the best availability and pricing, book your Airbnb or VRBO at least a few months in advance, especially if you’re eloping during peak season (June–October).
If you prefer a traditional stay with amenities like pools, on-site dining, and spas, there are some great hotels and lodges near RMNP.
For couples who want the full outdoor experience, there are campgrounds inside and near RMNP. Most require reservations, especially in the summer.
No matter what kind of stay you’re looking for, you’ll find plenty of options near RMNP. Whether you want a mountain cabin, a lakeside lodge, or a tent under the stars, there’s a perfect place to make your elopement trip unforgettable.
If you’re thinking about eloping in Rocky Mountain National Park you’re making an incredible choice—this place is pure magic, and I’d be stoked to capture every second of it for you.
I’m Rachel, a Colorado-based elopement and micro-wedding photographer with a deep love for RMNP. I specialize in earthy, nostalgic, true-to-color photography. More than just snapping epic photos, I’m here to make sure your elopement is an easy, fun, and completely “you” experience.
I’ve spent countless hours exploring RMNP, and I still get chills every time I’m up here. It’s one of those rare places that feels wild and intimate at the same time—with landscapes that go from alpine lakes to rugged peaks to golden meadows, all within a short drive or hike. Whether you want a quiet sunrise ceremony by Sprague Lake, an intimate vow exchange in a secluded meadow, or a just-the-two-of-you adventure in the mountains, this park has it all.
The best part? Eloping here strips away the stress. No overwhelming timelines. No endless guest lists. Just you, your person, and the beautiful moment of getting married in a place that actually means something to you.
Let’s be real—planning a national park elopement can feel overwhelming with all the permits, locations, and logistics. That’s where I come in. I don’t just show up with a camera—I help you craft a day that feels effortless, laid-back, and 100% true to you. Here’s how I’ve got your back:
✔ Helping you pick the perfect location: Whether you want an easy-access spot for your vows or a secluded ceremony followed by a day exploring the park, I know Rocky Mountain National Park inside and out and can guide you to the best locations.
✔ Navigating permits & logistics: No stressing over paperwork. I’ll walk you through the process and make sure you’ve got everything covered.
✔ Creating a relaxed timeline: No rigid schedules here. We’ll plan your day around the best light, the best views, and what feels most natural to you.
✔ Giving you vendor recommendations: Need an officiant, florist, or makeup artist? I’ll hook you up with the best of the best in the area.
If you’re eloping in Rocky Mountain National Park, you deserve a photographer who does more than just show up and snap some photos. I’m here to help you plan, guide you through the logistics, and make sure your day feels effortless and unforgettable. Whether you want an intimate ceremony and portraits before heading back to your cozy Airbnb to celebrate or a full-day experience exploring the park, I’ve got an elopement package that fits your vision.
✔ Personalized elopement planning: I help you with location scouting, permit guidance, vendor recommendations, and crafting a timeline that flows naturally.
✔ All travel fees included: No hidden costs—I’m based in Fort Collins, Colorado, so there are no extra travel fees for RMNP elopements.
✔ Unlimited support: Got questions? Need help picking a ceremony spot? I’m here for you every step of the way.
✔ A storytelling approach to your photos: No stiff poses, just real, emotional, cinematic moments captured beautifully.
✔ Sneak peek photos within 48-72 hours: Because waiting forever for your photos sucks.
✔ A full online gallery: High-resolution images delivered straight to you, so you can relive your day over and over.
Perfect for couples who want a simple, beautiful elopement experience—whether it’s a sunrise ceremony at Sprague Lake or a golden-hour vow exchange in a scenic meadow.
Best For:
For couples who want the full experience—taking their time to soak it all in, explore multiple locations, and celebrate in a way that feels fully them.
Best For:
Want to turn your elopement into a full-on experience? A multi-day elopement lets you slow down, explore, and make the most of your time in RMNP—without having to cram everything into one day.
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Before you head off to say your vows in one of the most stunning places in Colorado, here are a few last things to keep in mind:
Most importantly—enjoy every second. Your elopement should be stress-free, meaningful, and completely yours. If you need help planning or want to book a photographer who’s got your back, let’s chat!