Snowy Elopement in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Rocky Mountain National Park is a must see. Even if you aren’t planning your big day here, it’s a special location you need to put on your bucket list! I was so excited when this couple hired me to capture their snowy elopement in Rocky Mountain National Park, and I am thrilled to be sharing it with you all now. It was by far, one of the most favorite experiences from 2022.

I met up with this amazing couple at Bear Lake in RMNP where we began with a beautiful private ceremony. Afterwards, we hiked up the mountain to Dream Lake. It was a snowy, cold winter wonderland full of laughter. We created so many magical memories in the heavy downfall of snow while using hand warmers to keep us going. Seriously, though, this bride was a total trooper!!

The elopement in Rocky Mountain National Park was everything she and her husband had dreamed of, and the snow just made it all that more memorable and magical.

Every single detail was absolutely perfect, even there hiking gear– which came from Amazon and is easily accessible for everyone looking for a similar experience. The florals were from the talented Flora Wilde Designs. It was defiantly an unforgettable day that I’m so excited to share with you here!!!

3 Things to Remember When Planning an Elopement in Rocky Mountain National Park

Planning a private ceremony amidst the stunning landscapes of Colorado requires attention to detail and a thorough understanding of the local regulations. This blog will guide you through the essential tips for orchestrating a beautiful elopement in RMNP, touching upon Colorado laws regarding self-solemnization and the permitting process within the national park.

The first step is selecting the perfect location. RMNP has more than 250,000 acres of land. That’s a lot to cover. Finding the ideal location for your ceremony should be based on factors like accessibility, weather conditions, and the level of privacy each location offers.

Along the same lines, is booking the date. Timing is everything. The Rocky Mountains are known for their unpredictable weather, so timing is crucial when planning your elopement. Consider the season, time of day, and any potential weather challenges that may arise. Early morning or late afternoon ceremonies often offer the best lighting and more favorable weather conditions.

Following the selection of your ideal location, date, and ceremony time, familiarize yourself with the permitting process within RMNP. Permits are required to “reserve” specific locations and can be obtained by visiting their official website. Ceremonies can be scheduled up to a year in advance but must be obtained at least seven days prior to the ceremony. Occasionally, last minute ceremonies may be accommodated, but there are no guarantees.

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Understanding Colorado’s Self-Solemnization
Did you know that in Colorado, you don’t need an officiant? Colorado is one of the few states that allows couples to officiate their own wedding ceremony which creates a greater sense of intimacy and privacy for any elopement experience! However, it’s crucial to ensure you adhere to all legal requirements, such as obtaining a marriage license.

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