3 IMPORTANT THINGS THAT I LEARNED BY PHOTOGRAPHING MY VERY FIRST ELOPEMENT IN ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK

1. The $300 Permit is Worth Every Penny!

Although there are a lot of incredible places in Colorado to elope in that are free, the scenery of RMNP is incomparable. It’s a whole new level of pristine, wild beauty. With all the majestic mountain views, vast lakes, and open meadows that the park has to offer, eloping here is an absolutely worthwhile opportunity. If you guys are looking for the cream of the crop views and adventure then RMNP is the spot🤘😜

You can get a Wedding Permit by calling the RMNP Concession Management Office at 970 586-1209. Once you confirm your date is available with the office, download the printable RMNP wedding permit application here.

SOME TIPS:
↟On the permit application, under “Proposed Activity”, put “Elopement ceremony and photos”.
↟Have your photographer help you decide on the preferred start and end time. They will know the time of day that is the least busy and has the best lighting✌️
↟ APPLY FOR A PERMIT EARLY!!!!!!!! Due to COVID, the park is only issuing a total of 250 permits for all of 2021🥴

2. Weekday Sunrises are the Quietest!

Being one of the most popular national parks in the U.S., it’s likely that we will not be completely alone during your elopement. Although, sunsets there are gorgeous, getting up early for the sunrise light definitely proves to offer more privacy. And since locals are just as much in love with the park as visitors, I found that parking lots and hiking trails fill up quickly on the weekends— even in the middle of winter! I recommend choosing to elope on a weekday for a quieter experience☺️

3. Some Areas are Not Open All Year Long

With an altitude of over 12,000 feet, the drive over Trail Ridge Road has many of RMNP’s most jaw-dropping vista views. There are areas up there where you feel like you’re on top of the world! However, the road is closed in the winter due to snow and safety.

Although the open and close dates for Trail Ridge Road vary each year depending on the weather conditions, according to the NP, you can usually plan on the road being open from Memorial Day weekend until mid-October.

I’d plan to have your elopement sometime in the summer or early fall if taking epic photos on the top of Trail Ridge Road is something you want to do on your wedding day😆