Estes Park is a hidden gem right in the heart of Colorado. Nestled just outside of the Rocky Mountain National Park, this area gives you those amazing views with all the city accommodations you could need for planning the day of your dreams. If you have been considering using this area for your engagement, I’m here to tell you everything you need to know! As an Estes Park elopement photographer, I’m lucky enough to join couples from across the world for their Colorado celebrations. Here is my guide on how to easily elope in Estes Park!
The Ultimate Guide for How to Elope in Estes Park
Why You Should Elope in Estes Park
So, why should you choose Estes Park for your elopement? Well, I’m so glad you asked! Maybe I’m biased, but if you ask me, Estes Park is the ideal location where you can go to have a nature-filled wedding without having to compromise on luxury. Here is what makes this spot so unique:
Personalized Service: Most of the spots you can book for your wedding come with that wonderful boutique approach. If you are the type of couple who prefers a venue for your elopement, it doesn’t matter how small your wedding is. Get prepared for the red carpet treatment throughout your wedding weekend!
National Park Proximity: On the other hand, if you are the type of couple who prefers a wedding ceremony filled with unforgettable hikes leading to gorgeous backdrops, Este Park can also help you there. A lot of the lodges are located just alongside the Rocky Mountain National Park entrance, putting you a short drive away from some of the best wedding locations. You can spend some time getting pampered, head out to your wedding spot, and come back to your hotel for an epic afterparty.
Simplicity: We’re going to go into all of this in just a minute, but Colorado weddings are pretty dang easy. They are one of the few states that allow self-solemnization, letting you head off into the mountains and have the ideal wedding without an officiant. Oh, and because you don’t need witnesses, a lot of people have their dogs sign off on their wedding license. If you are planning a pup-friendly celebration, it’s pretty perfect!
Wedding week adventure: I’m going to guess you chose an elopement because you’re the kind of people who prefer an experience over tradition (aka my kind of people). Estes Park gives you tons of things to do while you’re here, from gorgeous hikes to horseback riding. This is about to be a week no one will ever forget.
When to Elope in Estes Park
So, now that I’ve hopefully convinced you, it’s time to find your date. Estes Park is an all-seasons town with pros and cons throughout each. Here is what you can expect:
- Winter: The winter season is going to start out around October and last all the way through April. Yes, it’s going to get cold. Yes, it’s going to get snowy. But because Estes Park isn’t that remote, some snow isn’t going to shut down the entire town. If you plan an RMNP wedding, you might have to keep an eye on the forecast, but for the most part, the weather shouldn’t be a huge hurdle.
- Spring: During May and June, the weather can be a bit of a mixed bag. It could be sunny and warm with fields of wildflowers! Or it could be snowy and cold and muddy. While it’s impossible to know exactly what you can expect during this time, you can at least expect all the low-elevation trails to be open, giving you tons of great adventure possibilities.
- Summer: Throughout July and August, this area comes alive! The snow is melted, the wildflowers are showing off, and the iconic yellow aspens are going wild! This season is extremely beautiful, and a lot of people know it. Be prepared for lots of tourists, especially along the trails.
- Fall: If you want to see the iconic aspens, this is the time to do it. Throughout September and October, Estes Park becomes downright transcendent with colorful trees and quieter trails. The only issue is that the weather during this season can be a bit unpredictable. Be sure to bring along a lot of layers and be ready for all kinds of weather.
If you do choose to have an Estes Park area National Park elopement, be prepared for lots of crowds, especially when the weather is nice. If you would prefer a quiet ceremony, I would advise planning a sunrise wedding on a weekday. While you might still get a few stragglers, it should be pretty quiet as the rest of the world wakes up.
How Much Does it Cost to Elope in Estes Park?
The beauty of an elopement is that you can choose how much you want to pay for it. It’s impossible to say exactly what you can expect to pay solely because your elopement should be perfectly suited to you! That said, let’s dive into what you will need to work into the budget.
- The Necessities:
- Marriage License: In Colorado, this will cost around $30.
- Permits: This is going to depend on where you tie the knot. A lot of people choose public land or the National Parks. This will cost around $400 at most.
- The Accommodations:
- Hotel: You can expect to pay anywhere from $80-$250 a night.
- Transportation: This will include your plane ticket as well as how you will get around town while you are here.
- Food throughout the week: From little diners to exclusive restaurants, you are going to find something for every budget.
- Activities: This is going to include how you spend your downtime throughout your trip. We have everything from rented bobsleds to guided horse rides.
- Guest accommodations: think lodging, group dinners, shuttles, all that good stuff.
- The Actual Wedding:
- Clothing for you and your spouse
- Hair and Makeup
- Flowers
- Photography
- A reception venue
- Entertainment.
- Elopement planner
As I mentioned earlier, you get to decide what you do and do not want to include in your budget. On average, Colorado elopements cost anywhere from $4,000-$8,000.
Where to Elope in Estes Park
Now comes the fun part. Finding your elopement location around Estes Park! There are so many magical spots all across the area, whether you prefer to get married in the city itself or disappear into the National Parks for a few hours. Here are some of my favorite spots:
- Lake Estes Trail: This is a great option for those who would prefer a waterfront wedding. The trail itself goes on for four miles and is pretty easy to navigate. You will be able to find pretty much every kind of backdrop, from the scenic lake to the lush forests.
- Knoll – Willows: If you would prefer some place a little more unique, this might just be your best option. Thanks to its convenient location, this spot was originally slated to be an outlet mall. Luckily, those plans fell through, leaving a stunning spot right outside the city. While you will find tons of great options for your ceremony, I think the favorite spot is inside the ruins of the stone bungalow. There is also a quaint log cabin along the way!
- The Stanley Hotel: Horror lovers and romantics alike will adore The Stanley Hotel! This spot gained a reputation after Stephen King spent one night here in the 70s and was promptly inspired to write The Shining. There are some ghost stories here, and they regularly host paranormal tours. No matter where you land on all of that, there’s no doubt that the exterior is one of the most lovely views in the entire city, with an outdoor pavilion overlooking the mountains.
- YMCA of the Rockies: This is a one-of-a-kind resort founded through the YMCA. Located on over 860 acres, you will have no shortage of things to do throughout your week. The venue features four ceremony sites as well as wedding packages guaranteed to give you the day of your dreams.
- Hermit Park: If you want to get a great view of the aspens, this is the perfect spot! The park is filled with trails that will take you past the most lovely aspen groves around. There is also a Group Pavilion site where you can host up to 150 guests.
- Della Terra Mountain Chateau: This Wedgewood venue was designed for micro-weddings and elopements. Throughout your wedding, you will have outdoor courtyards and lodge-inspired ballrooms. This space doubles as a vacation home, giving you the best spot to stay throughout your wedding weekend.
- The Lyons Farmette: If lush flower fields are your kind of thing, you are going to adore this quaint spot! This area is filled with colorful blooms, thick cottonwood trees, and the cutest farm animals around! You will also have access to a modern barn, a farmhouse, and a vintage Airstream.
- National Forests/State Parks: Beyond the RMNP, this area is filled with public spots where you can host your ceremony amidst nature. You can try out locations like the Roosevelt National Forest, the Arapaho National Forest, and the State Forest State Park. With all of these spots, you are going to have miles of untamed land just waiting to welcome you in your next great adventure!
If you would prefer to get married in RMNP, here are some great options:
Lily Lake
This is one of the most popular spots in the entire National Park, and for good reason! The picturesque water along the majestic mountains gives you a breathtaking backdrop all year long. While Lily Lake Dock is picture-perfect, it does get quite crowded, especially during the day. This is one of those spots where a sunrise wedding is practically a necessity! Outside of here, you can try out the Southside Picnic Area or the Trail. Because there is way more terrain in these areas, you should be able to find a remote spot.
Moraine Park Discovery Center Amphitheater
This area manages to give you a more traditional wedding site with tiered seating leading down to a dirt clearing. You can exchange your vows surrounded by pines with the mountains just off toward the back. This area is able to host up to 30 guests.
Upper Beaver Meadows
This spot is perfect if you do have a larger elopement planned. Nestled right alongside the Continental Divide, the area gives you plenty of spots along the plains where you can exchange your vows. The area is able to host up to 60 guests.
Alluvial Fan Bridge
If you want a break from the grassy meadows, you might really adore this spot. This location gives you a rocky beach alongside the rushing waves of the waterfall. The area is also lined with aspens that transform once autumn hits.
3M Curve
This area gives you a bit of everything. The dirt overlook can serve as a wedding space where you can exchange your vows while overlooking the surrounding meadows. As you look out, you are going to see clear blue skies, snow-capped mountains, and a dirt trail. The area is incredibly easy to access and gives you enough space for up to 15 people total.
Harbison Meadow
This area is positively breathtaking, giving you lush green fields that lead up to the mountains and the pines. You can trade your I dos beneath the legendary Colorado skies before hosting a small cocktail hour in the neighboring pavilion.
The Legalities of Eloping in Estes Park
As I mentioned earlier, getting married in Colorado is incredibly easy. The first thing you need to think about is the marriage license. You can get this at any county clerk’s office across the state (the closest will be Larimer County in Fort Collins). There is no waiting period for it, enabling you to get your license the day you get in town. You and your partner will both need to be present with a photo ID.
Colorado is one of the only states that allows self-solemnization. Essentially, you don’t need an officiant to conduct your ceremony. If you want this elopement moment to just be the two of you, you will have the ability to do so in Estes Park! You also don’t need any witnesses. The ability to self-solemnize your wedding is especially great when it comes to navigating the National Parks, since a lot of the areas do have a small guest cap (and that will include your vendors).
National Park Weddings
Oh, and speaking of National Park weddings, if you do want to plan your wedding at RMNP, you will need a permit ahead of time. Luckily, applying for one couldn’t be any easier. First, pick out the place where you plan to host your wedding. The National Park will have the information you need to reserve your spot right on their website. Just fill out the form and send it to romo_fees_permits@nps.gov.
Once they accept your application, you will pay the fees to formally reserve your spot. Their reservations are available on a first-come, first-served basis and can be requested up to a year in advance. They open up their reservations on the first of the month. Say you want to get married on May 16th, you can submit your application as early as May 1st of the previous year. Make sense?
If you are getting married on Estes Park public land or inside a National Forest, the protocol can change. Just look up your spot and see what they recommend. They typically make it pretty simple to reserve your spot!
Accommodations for Guests in Estes Park
Now that you have all the Estes Park logistics for your elopement day, it’s time to start thinking about how you can spend your week along with your guests. Estes Park is the ideal spot to go when you want to spend the week surrounded by nature without compromising on comfort. Here are the best places your party can enjoy while you are there.
Where to Stay
- The Estes Park Resort: If you want to spend your weekend feeling spoiled, this is going to be your spot! This space combines breathtaking views with high-end luxury to ensure your guests will have a trip they will never forget. The on-site spa definitely doesn’t hurt!
- Tahaara Mountain Lodge: This location is going to put you near the mountains, giving you that rustic camp experience plus all the furnishings you could need. The attached Twin Owls Steakhouse is also a favorite option when it comes to receptions!
- The Stanley Hotel: This space gives you high-end luxury, gorgeous views, and an experience you will remember for years to come. They give you several options for tours, plus they have several on-site restaurants to keep your party well-fed!
- The Inn on Fall River: This hotel was designed to invite nature in. You can choose from cabins, several lodges, and luxury suites. Whether you want to hang out in the only infinity pool in Estes Park or go and explore the best local trails, they’ll give you options!
If you would prefer a rental home, you will have several options all across the city! A lot of the houses were designed to stay true to the Colorado spirit with natural materials on the inside and mountain views just outside. You can pick from high-end vacation homes, woodsy cabins, and remote retreats.
Closest Airports
While there are a few regional airports around the Estes Park area, most people fly into Denver International Airport ahead of their elopement. This airport welcomes flights from all across the world and services most major airlines. When you fly in, you will be about an hour and 19 minutes away from Estes Park.
Local Food Locations to Try
If you are a foodie at heart, you are going to adore Estes Park! You can find restaurants made for every kind of palette. Here are a few of my favorite spots:
- Bird & Jim: This restaurant specializes in mountain cuisine prepared with locally sourced meat and produce. Their wine selection is also pretty darn impressive!
- The Hive at Estes Park Brewery: In addition to their delicious beers, this spot has a variety of pub fare, including elk and bison burgers.
- Kind Coffee: If you are in the mood for a really, really good latte, this cafe is your spot. They also have shakes made with your favorite coffees.
- Mountain Home Cafe: If you ever overdo it with celebrating, this is the spot that will nurse you back to health. Their breakfast food is absolutely delicious, with something for every diner.
- Antonio’s Pizza: If you want to dine like a local, this pizzeria has you covered!
- Estes Thai: For those in the mood for authentic flavors, this restaurant is going to become your new favorite space.
Things to Do in Estes Park
Throughout your elopement week, you are going to have plenty of Estes Park activities to fill your schedule! If you are looking for the best way to enjoy this town, try out some of these ideas:
Explore the National Park: This one might seem like a given, but there are so many ways to check out RMNP. Throughout the winter, you can rent out some snowshoes and go for a hike, or you can go bob sledding across Hidden Valley. Once the snow starts to thaw, you can check out miles and miles of trails.
Check out the Stanley Hotel: You don’t have to book a stay to get a lot out of this hotel. The mazes out back give you the perfect way to disappear for a bit. You can also check out a tour that will teach you all about the history of the iconic location.
Go for a gondola ride: If you love the mountains, why not get a little closer with a gondola ride that will take you high above the city?
Visit Historic Park Theater: Designed during the Golden Era of cinema, this location is the oldest operating theater in the entire Western United States. It’s ideal for cinephiles and history-lovers alike!
Go for a horseback ride: There are a number of stables that will let you rent a horse for a few hours and check out all the trails in the area.
Hiring An Estes Park Elopement Photographer
As you plan your Estes Park wedding, you need to make sure you have a way to remember every wonderful second. I’m going to guess you decided to plan an elopement because you are the type of person who loves a good adventure. The most important thing you can now make is a photographer ready to be there for every step of your journey, helping you plan the next chapter while capturing every single moment. That’s where I come in as a Estes Park elopement photographer!
I have spent years documenting weddings. I know how to capture this jaw-dropping backdrop while keeping you the star of the show! If you have been looking for an elopement photographer and want to see if I might be a match, I would love to tell you all about my custom packages so you can see how I can be there for you!
You Now Have Everything You Need to Elope in Estes Park!
If you have been looking for some help planning how to elope in Estes Park, I really hope this guide helped you out! If so, stick around! Let’s have a conversation so you can decide if I’m a match. Hope to chat soon!
