If you're dreaming of mountain peaks, alpine lakes, and golden aspen groves as the backdrop for your wedding day, then eloping in Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) might be exactly what you're looking for.


With its jaw-dropping landscapes and romantic, wild vibes, RMNP is one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring elopement destinations in the U.S.—especially for couples who want a day that feels relaxed, intentional, and completely connected to nature.


But eloping in a national park means there are some logistics to figure out, including permits, rules, and how to pick the perfect ceremony location. As a Colorado elopement photographer who’s helped many couples plan their RMNP elopements, I’ve got you covered with everything you need to know.


Let’s dive in.

Why Elope in Rocky Mountain National Park?


RMNP offers a little bit of everything:

  • Majestic mountain peaks
  • Peaceful alpine lakes
  • Aspen groves that glow in the fall
  • Wildlife sightings (hello elk and marmots!)
  • Accessible trails and epic views—no 10-mile hike required


Whether you want a sunrise first look at a lake, a private vow exchange under golden trees, or a fun celebration hike with your pup (outside the park boundaries), this place delivers on magic.


Plus, eloping in a national park brings that intentional “just us” feeling that so many couples crave. It's not about the big production—it's about an experience you’ll never forget.

Newlywed couple walks along wooden boardwalk beside lake and rocky cliffs during golden sunset in mountain landscape.

Best Ceremony Locations in RMNP for Your Elopement


The National Park Service currently designates 12 specific ceremony sites where couples are allowed to get married inside RMNP. These spots are all incredibly scenic and were chosen to preserve the natural beauty of the park while still providing gorgeous backdrops.


Here are some of my personal favorites:



Sprague Lake


Best for: Water views + accessible paths


This is one of the most popular ceremony spots, and for good reason. Sprague Lake is a peaceful spot with a wooden dock overlooking the lake and panoramic views of the Continental Divide.


It’s wheelchair accessible, has restrooms nearby, and is absolutely stunning at sunrise or sunset.


Photographer Tip: In the fall, the reflections here can be magical. Go early to beat the crowds.



Moraine Park Amphitheater


Best for: Larger guest count + mountain backdrop

If you’re having a few more guests (up to 30), this is your spot. The amphitheater offers wooden benches, mountain views, and a quiet forest setting that feels secluded but accessible.

There’s also a parking lot nearby and minimal walking, making it great for grandparents or guests with limited mobility.



3M Curve


Best for: Panoramic mountain views + elopements with 10 or fewer people

3M Curve is a rocky overlook that gives you sweeping views of Longs Peak and the surrounding range. It feels intimate and wild, and it's one of the most private-feeling ceremony sites in the park.


Photographer Tip: It gets windy here—bring a flowy dress and a cozy blanket for cute post-ceremony photos!



Hidden Valley


Best for: Elopements with fall colors


Tucked into a quiet area of the park, Hidden Valley is filled with trees, trails, and a peaceful meadow. It’s ideal during the fall when the aspens light up in bright yellow.

It allows for more flexibility and has great golden hour light if you time it right.

A white lace wedding dress stands out against golden mountain meadows and misty peaks in a rustic outdoor setting.

RMNP Elopement Permit Info (Read This!)


To elope in RMNP, you must apply for and obtain a Special Use Permit from the National Park Service. Here’s what you need to know:


Permit Details:

  • Cost: $300
  • Permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis
  • You must choose from one of the designated ceremony locations
  • Permits include up to 30 total people (including your vendors!)
  • Only 60 permits are issued per month, and only 2 ceremonies per day are allowed in the entire park


When to Apply:

Apply as early as possible! 6 to 12 months in advance is ideal—especially for peak seasons (summer and fall). Permits open 1 year in advance on a rolling basis.


Pro Tip: September and early October dates go fast due to fall colors—set a calendar reminder to apply the moment your date becomes available.


How to Apply:

  1. Visit the RMNP Weddings & Permits Page
  2. Download and fill out the Special Use Permit application
  3. Email it to: romo_fees_permits@nps.gov
  4. Wait for approval and payment instructions


A couple shares an intimate moment on a mountain summit overlooking a dramatic rocky landscape under moody skies.

Photography Guidelines in RMNP


As your elopement photographer, I’ll guide you through all of this, but here are a few quick notes:

  • Drone photography is not allowed
  • No props or arches—you can bring a small bouquet, but elaborate setups are prohibited
  • We’ll stick to designated paths and practice Leave No Trace principles
  • I’ll help you plan around lighting, weather, and crowds for the best photos possible


My goal? To help you have a fun, relaxed day and capture real, beautiful moments—not force anything stiff or staged.

Best Time of Day to Elope in RMNP


This depends on your vibe, but here are a few options:

  • Sunrise: Peaceful, quiet, and usually fewer people around. The light is dreamy and romantic—perfect for lakes or higher elevation locations.
  • Golden Hour: Late afternoon light is warm and glowy. This is great for spots like Hidden Valley or Moraine Park.
  • Midday: Can be bright, but with the right locations (like shaded forests or hidden meadows), it still works beautifully.


💡 Weather Tip: The weather can change quickly! Always bring layers and a backup plan. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer.

Person in a white lace wedding dress puts on brown leather boots while seated in a rustic wooden room.

What to Pack for Your RMNP Elopement


Whether you're hiking or just wandering to your ceremony spot, here’s what I recommend:

  • Sturdy shoes (even under a dress!)
  • Layers, jackets, or a cute blanket
  • Water + snacks
  • Vows + rings
  • Flowers (optional, but beautiful)
  • Champagne or sparkling cider for a celebratory toast!
  • Headlamps or flashlights if you're starting or ending in the dark


I’ll bring my emergency kit, backup gear, and a whole lot of positive energy to keep things smooth and stress-free.

Making the Day Your Own


Remember: this is your day. Just because it’s in a national park doesn’t mean it has to feel rigid or generic.


You can:

  • Write private vows at sunrise, then celebrate with family later
  • Bring a picnic, a thermos of hot chocolate, or your favorite beer
  • Include a first dance in the forest or by a lake
  • Turn it into a multi-day adventure: explore Estes Park, take a Jeep tour, or go hiking the next morning
Silhouetted figures against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains and evergreen forest under blue skies in the wilderness.

Leave No Trace: Protecting the Park


As a licensed photographer in RMNP, I’m committed to Leave No Trace practices. That means:

  • Staying on trails
  • Respecting wildlife
  • Not picking flowers or disrupting nature
  • Carrying out everything we bring in


Eloping in nature is a privilege—and together, we’ll make sure we keep it beautiful for the next couple who falls in love here.

A couple shares a romantic moment at a scenic mountain overlook with towering peaks and railings at sunset.

Ready to Elope in Rocky Mountain National Park?


If your heart’s pulling you toward the mountains and you're dreaming of a peaceful, awe-inspiring elopement day—you’re in the right place.


Whether you know your date or you’re still figuring it all out, I’d love to help you plan your Rocky Mountain National Park elopement from start to finish. I’ll help you pick the right spot, secure your permit, build a timeline, and capture it all with photos that feel like you.