Escape to the Mountains A Stunning Estes Park Elopement
It’s hard to resist the allure of a picturesque mountain town that looks like something straight out of a Hallmark movie. With charming mom-and-pop shops, rustic and laid-back vibes, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures, Estes Park looks like a place you would find in a romantic comedy. From its glorious mountain views to its signature taffy and fudge, it’s a beautiful place for a secluded getaway or an intimate Estes Park Elopement.
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Set Your Sights On Planning A Dream Estes Park Elopement
The valley of Estes Park backs up to Rocky Mountain National Park and other spectacular locations brimming with Colorado beauty. It’s a true romantic mountain paradise, perfect for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts. Estes Park isn’t a ski town, but its small-town hospitality can’t be beaten. Only 90 minutes from the Denver airport and a 45-minute drive from the city of Boulder, it’s an accessible town that offers plenty to see and do.
Estes Park is also an incredible place for a small, intimate elopement. While it’s home to several larger venues that can accommodate full-scale weddings, too, it’s hard to resist the allure of a quiet celebration that’s all about you, your partner, and no one else. Consider this the Ultimate Guide to an Estes Park elopement, a great place to start if you’re searching for the perfect spot for your wedding day.
When You Should Elope in Estes Park & How to Pick Your Date
Like most Colorado towns, Estes Park sees a variety of weather throughout the year. You should pick your elopement date primarily based on the season in which you’d like to visit!
In the summer, Estes Park sees days that are long and warm and nights that are beautifully cool. Everything erupts in green, and the lakes and rivers are full and fresh. It’s the perfect season for hiking, horseback riding, boating, and plenty of other outdoor activities. Fall is one of the most popular times to elope, thanks to more temperate weather and the stunning changing leaves (typically from late September through early October.)
Snow can start falling as early as October, but typically, November is when you’ll start to see it accumulate. Since it isn’t a ski town, the crowds die down a bit in the winter, making it perfect for couples looking to avoid bigger crowds. Plan on temps that range anywhere from below freezing to the mid-40s – layering is key! Mid-April through June sees the snow melting off, sometimes resulting in muddy trails. It can also be perfect for lower-elevation elopements when everything is beginning to bud and come to life again after the cold! Not to mention, it’s a great season to take advantage of smaller crowds and lower prices throughout the town.
Estes Park becomes pretty popular in the summer and fall, so if you’re hoping for a more private elopement, you will want to consider a weekday date. If you have your heart set on a weekend, consider a sunrise ceremony so you can beat the crowds and take advantage of that gorgeous sunrise glow!
Elopement Locations – Rocky Mountain National Park elopement
These are some of my favorite Estes Park elopement locations. Since some of them are located within the spectacular Rocky Mountain National Park, keep in mind that you’ll need a permit in order to get married here. Don’t worry. We’ll figure out all the details together once you’ve chosen your perfect elopement spot!
Sprague Lake is an easily accessible elopement spot thanks to nearby boardwalks, docks, and bridges surrounding the water. Take advantage of views of the surrounding mountains, like Flattop Mountain and Hallet Peak. It’s a stunningly beautiful setting for a rugged, romantic elopement.
3M Curve is an iconic wedding ceremony location in Rocky Mountain National Park with some of the most breathtaking mountain views. You’ll need comfortable shoes due to the rugged terrain, and note that it’s not as accessible as Sprague Lake. For you, the views may still be worth it, though!
Upper Beaver Meadows is another great spot that is easy to get to and offers a private, gorgeous setting. Surrounded by grassy meadows and hills, it’s a quieter spot away from crowds of tourists; you may even see some of the famous Estes Park elk grazing beside you!
How to Get an Estes Park Marriage License
Like eloping anywhere in Colorado, getting your marriage license is a pretty straightforward process for your Estes Park elopement. Just visit a county clerk’s office anywhere in the state with the required documentation, pay your minimal fee, and you can walk out with your license in hand! In the state of Colorado, you don’t even need witnesses or an officiant; you can just take to the mountains with your partner and “marry” yourselves!
What to Wear to Your Elopement
What you choose to wear primarily depends on the season in which you choose to elope. You have far more flexibility with a summer or even a fall date; maybe pack a “just in case” jacket in case it gets chilly. In the winter, you’ll definitely want to prepare snow boots, microspikes, snowshoes, and a coat, especially if you plan to elope in the mountains. Most of all, you just want to feel comfortable and unequivocally gorgeous in whatever you wear – it’s your wedding day, after all!
How Much Does an Estes Park Elopement Cost?
Eloping in Estes Park gives you a lot of flexibility with your budget. You’ll need to account for the fees associated with your marriage license and your elopement site, which could top out around $350. Everything else is up to you! Think about what you’re comfortable spending on things like attire, travel, photography, and a post-elopement celebration. Details like hair and makeup, florals, and other vendors should be taken into consideration, too. Make a list of your wedding priorities and go from there!
Hiring an Estes Park Elopement Photographer
One vendor you really want to be sure of is your photographer. After all, they’re going to be adventuring by your side on this extraordinary day, making sure you have plenty of captured memories to look back on for the rest of your life. As an experienced elopement photographer, I know exactly what it takes to deliver an album full of breathtaking photos. I’d love to be the one to help you curate an incredible day that you’ll never forget. Let’s get started!!
You Will Absolutely Love The Photos We Create At Your Estes Park Elopement
Feeling inspired by the idea of an Estes Park elopement? Then jump on it! Let’s get started planning every detail so you can have the most exquisite day celebrating this pinnacle moment in your love story. It’s going to be amazing!
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Can you elope in Estes Park?
Yes, you can elope in Estes Park.
How much does it cost to get married at Estes Park?
The cost of getting married at Estes Park can vary depending on various factors such as the specific venue, services included, and the number of guests. It is best to contact the wedding venues or event planners at Estes Park directly for accurate pricing information.
Do you need a permit to get married in Estes Park?
You do not need a permit for locations within the town of Estes Park, but if you plan to say your vows in the national park, then yes you will need to apply for a permit.
How much to elope in Rocky Mountain National Park?
The cost of eloping in Rocky Mountain National Park can vary depending on various factors, such as the specific services you require, the number of guests, and the time of year. It is recommended to contact local wedding planners or elopement packages providers for accurate pricing information tailored to your preferences and requirements. The permit itself is 300 dollars.