The ultimate Colorado elopement experience: Rocky Mountain National Park! Before you start to make plans there are things you need to know first. Keep reading for the best professional tips on planning the perfect intimate elopement at Colorado’s iconic Rocky Mountain National Park.
Lauren + Cris’s Intimate Elopement in Rocky Mountain National Park
I had the pleasure of photographing Lauren + Cris’ engagement photos summer of 2022, right after moving back to Denver. Click here to view their engagement session. Lauren’s sister is married to one of my husband’s Space Force coworkers / friends so we instantly connected. I was so thrilled when they asked me to photograph their elopement after they received their full engagement gallery.
Knowing Lauren + Cris on a personal level, I couldn’t have dreamed up a more beautiful August afternoon for them to exchanging their vows. Being that Lauren is a true Swiftie at heart + the weather oh-so-perfectly gave all the folklore vibes (iykyk)!
Tips + Tricks
Best time of year. You can elope during any season but ultimately the season is dependent on what you are most drawn to. Memorial Day through Labor Day is the busiest time of the year.
Heavy traffic. RMNP is one of the most popular parks in the US, rightfully so, which means there are a lot of visitors each day. With that said, it’s very important that you plan ahead for traffic.
Inclement weather. Colorado is notorious for moody, unpredictable weather but that won’t stop us from creating everlasting memories. Due to the higher elevation of the park, prepare yourself for the potential of winds, rain or even snow depending on when you are eloping. Be sure to pack plenty of water, layers + rain coats. It’s better to overpack than to under-pack and be freezing your tooshie off or be sopping wet.
No fur babies. If you’re a proud fur parent like myself, sadly you do need to leave your fur babies behind as national parks do not allow pets. This might be a deal breaker for those traveling to Colorado to have their dog be their witness.
Permits. To legally wed / have your ceremony inside RMNP, you must obtain a permit + stick to one of the 12 designated ceremony sites. More information can be found on nps.gov. Please note they only offer a limited amount of permits per season per year (offered up to one year in advance) and they do fill up extremely quickly. If you simply want to capture couples portraits inside the park, as of January 1, 2024 you no longer need a photography permit.
Timed Entry Reservations. From May 24 to October 20, 2024 a timed entry ticket is required to gain entrance to Bear Lake Road Corridor between the hours of 5 am + 6 pm. Simply visit nps.gov for more information.
Leave no trace. In order to continue loving our beautiful land, simply leave no trace by collecting any/all trash and personal belongings prior to your departure.
Hire Mae Meadows Photography as Your Colorado Elopement Photographer
I specialize in intimate weddings and elopements and absolutely love helping my clients plan their perfect adventure. Get in contact with me by submitting an inquiry here.
Now it’s time to admire Lauren + Cris’ sweet elopement photos:
Planning a Rocky Mountain National Park elopement?
