Rocky Mountain National Park Ceremony Sites

So you’re looking for the wedding sites inside Rocky Mountain National Park? Well, you found yourself in the right place because this post was written just for you! I’ll give you a full rundown of the 11 designated ceremony sites within Rocky Mountain National Park, including guest size, accessibility, bathroom access, whether your dog can attend, and a brief description of what each site looks like. As an experienced elopement and micro-wedding photographer with over one hundred RMNP elopements under my belt, I’m here to guide you through the entire process and make sure your Rocky Mountain wedding is nothing short of magical.

Discover Your Perfect Ceremony Site

Rocky Mountain National Park offers a variety of designated ceremony sites, each with its own unique vibe. Whether you’re dreaming of exchanging vows with panoramic views of mountains and meadows or lakeside surrounded by forests and aspen groves, there’s a spot in the park that’s perfect for you. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you choose the ideal location for your special day. Note that the overall group size includes the couple, guests, officiant, photographer, and any other vendors.

1. 3M Curve

• Ceremony Size: Up to 15 people
• Max Vehicles: 3
• Description: Imagine saying your vows on a large rock outcrop with panoramic views of mountains, meadows, and moraines. It’s a picturesque spot that will make your hearts soar.
• Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible

2. Alluvial Fan Bridge

• Ceremony Size: Up to 20 people
• Max Vehicles: 5
• Description: *Photo courtesy of The Denver Post* This site features a boulder-strewn river with a cascading waterfall, a charming wooden footbridge, and a grove of aspen trees. It’s a favorite during the summer, so expect some company.
• Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible

3. Bear Lake

• Ceremony Size: Up to 20 people
• Max Vehicles: 5
• Description: Nestled on Bear Lake, this site offers stunning mountain views and a tranquil aspen grove. Note that it’s a popular spot, and weddings are restricted from the Friday before Memorial Day through the second Tuesday of October. No weekend weddings allowed.
• Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible

4. Copeland Lake

• Ceremony Size: Up to 30 people
• Max Vehicles: 10
• Description: With its serene lake and forested area dotted with aspen trees, Copeland Lake provides a peaceful, more secluded setting for your ceremony. Restrooms are nearby.
• Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible

5. Hidden Valley

• Ceremony Size: Up to 30 people
• Max Vehicles: 10
• Description: This spot is tucked away in the mountains and has aspens, pines, summer wildflowers, a wooden footbridge, and restrooms. Plus, it’s wheelchair accessible!
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

6. Lily Lake

• Ceremony Size: Dock: Up to 10 people, Trail: Up to 20 people
• Max Vehicles: 10
• Description: With 360° mountain views, a scenic lake, and a loop trail, Lily Lake is perfect for an intimate ceremony. The trail is wheelchair accessible, making it a great choice for all guests.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible trail

7. Sprague Lake

• Ceremony Size: Summer: Up to 15 people, Winter: Up to 30 people
• Max Vehicles: Summer: 3, Winter: 10
• Description: Sprague Lake offers a dramatic backdrop of mountains and lake, with a dock, knoll, and wooden footbridge. The trail is wheelchair accessible, but expect crowds, especially in summer.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

8. Timber Creek Campground Amphitheater

• Ceremony Size: Up to 20 people
• Max Vehicles: 5
• Description: Located on the west side of the park, this amphitheater offers partial views of the Colorado River, restrooms, and a large nearby campground. It’s also wheelchair accessible and pet friendly (must be on leash). *photo courtesy of Rocky NPS website*
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

9. Upper Beaver Meadows

• Ceremony Size: Up to 30 people
• Max Vehicles: 10
• Description: This site features open meadows with views of the Continental Divide. It’s an idyllic spot for a larger gathering, but note that vehicle access is limited in winter.
• Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible

10. Moraine Park Discovery Center Amphitheater

• Ceremony Size: Up to 30 people
• Max Vehicles: 10
• Description: With pine trees, views of Moraine Park and Longs Peak, and a rustic wooden amphitheater, this site is perfect for nature lovers. Plus, you can bring your furry babies on a leash! *photo courtesy of Rocky NPS website. Morraine Park is currently closed to a major reconstruction project.
• Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible

11. Harbison Meadow Wedding Site

• Ceremony Size: Up to 30 people
• Max Vehicles: 10
• Description: On the west side of the park in a large meadow offering breathtaking mountain views. Unfortunately, no restrooms nearby. *photo courtesy of Rocky NPS website
• Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible

Planning Your Rocky Mountain Wedding

To ensure your ceremony goes smoothly, here are a few important tips:

• Permits: You’ll need a permit to hold your ceremony in the park. Rocky Mountain National Park starts accepting wedding permit applications one year prior to your wedding date. For example, if you plan on getting married in July 2025, you would apply for your wedding permit on July 1, 2024. The permit costs $300 and does not include the entrance fee into the park. Permits tend to go fast since Rocky Mountain National Park is a popular destination for elopements and smaller weddings, so I highly encourage you to apply for your permit ASAP. They only approve 600 per year. To submit your wedding permit request, download the Special Use Application, fill it out, and email it to romo_fees_permits@nps.gov.
• Weather: Be prepared for unpredictable mountain weather. Have a backup plan for inclement conditions.
• Respect the Park: Remember that these sites are open to the public. Share the space respectfully with other visitors.

For more detailed information, visit the official Rocky Mountain National Park website.

Rocky Mountain National Park is a magical place to begin your journey together. Whether you’re eloping or having a micro-wedding, the park’s natural beauty is the perfect backdrop for your love story. As your photographer and planner, I’m here to help you capture every precious moment and make your day as stress-free and memorable as possible.

Ready to start planning your dream wedding in Rocky Mountain National Park? Fill out my contact form to schedule your free consult call with me!