How to Elope in Rocky Mountain National Park
How to Elope in Rocky Mountain National Park
You need a wedding permit to get married in Rocky Mountain National Park
You’ll need to apply for a wedding permit for a specific location in Rocky Mountain National Park that allows elopements, vow renewals and other ceremonies. You can apply for one here here:
You will need to know the ceremony location, date and time for the application.
If you’re a photographer or couple reading this, please do not skimp on getting a permit. It’s illegal to get married in RMNP without a permit and you risk being fined and possible jail time. Just get the permit! It’s only $250.00.
The good news is that weddings, ceremonies and other sessions can be scheduled up to one year in advance and no later than 7 days prior to the event.
Also the wedding photography permit acts as a photography permit for the photographer and covers the officiant as well. Make sure to screenshot or print off a copy of the permit and have it with you at all times!
Choose a ceremony location inside rocky mountain national park
Rocky Mountain National Park has designated areas throughout the park that allow wedding ceremonies and two people elopements. It’s illegal to get married or exchange vows in a location other than a designated spot, so make sure to exchange vows in an official area so you don’t risk getting fined or kicked out of the park.
You can also roam the park and go to different locations for photos after exchanging vows and sealing the deal! There are some incredible spots (like the one above) that are easy to access for exploring and photos.
If you’re looking for wedding location suggestions for the best views, get in touch with me.
Respect and follow the park rules for getting married
You’re in an awesome place, you want to get away from the crowds and get epic photos. I get it, but don’t be that person crossing barriers, leaving confetti and walking through protected areas.
That’s a good way for a Park Ranger to escort you out of the park.
I’m a firm believer of the Leave No Trace Policy in all areas of life. I can’t enforce this through a blog post, but I can ask that you respect Colorado and our natural lands. Don’t leave trash on the ground. Don’t walk in areas that are designated for restoration. Stay on the trail. Leave No Trace!
Plan ahead for your Rocky Elopement
Weekend traffic can be insane anywhere from 10AM-5PM throughout the day. If you have flexibility on a date, choose a weekday to get married and avoid weekends. The parking lots get full easily and traffic stops for construction can take 30 + minutes.
Plan on losing light a good hour before sunset. You should experience soft golden light or blue hour, but always plan on losing sunlight much earlier. The mountains block the sun both during sunrise and sunset, so it gets bright later and dark earlier.
Bring a jacket and warm boots. The weather changes drastically in the park year round. You can experience high winds, rain, sleet and snow!
Bring water + snacks to enjoy before and after your ceremony.
Take a potty break at the welcome center if you want clean and heated bathrooms! The toilets within the park get used a lot and aren’t the nicest.
HAVE AN AMAZING CELEBRATION
+ take in all the breath taking views
I hope you found this blog post to be helpful! You’re welcome to share it and if you have any questions please reach out to me.
The opinions and advice in this blog post do not hold authority with any local state or government laws. It’s the readers responsibility to double check availability, permit regulations, park requirements and wedding permits directly with Rocky Mountain National Park Services.
