How to elope in Rocky Mountain National Park

In an effort to be fully transparent, I’ll admit that I’ve not yet shot in RMNP but it would be a dream…until that happens, I want to educate myself and my couples on what goes into camping in the park! Inquire here if you’re ready to capture your elopement in Rocky.

Rocky Mountain National Park is a beautiful and popular destination for elopements. Here are some things to keep in mind as you plan your elopement in the park:

Book ahead of time: Because the park is so popular, and its popularity for weddings + elopements is growing there are limited permit options for couples to choose from and this means limited dates when you can elope. Luckily, you can apply for a permit up to one year in advance of your desired wedding month!

Obtain the necessary permits: You will need a permit for your elopement ceremony and any photography or videography you plan to do in the park. You can obtain a permit by contacting the park’s special use permit coordinator. The park issues no more than 60 permits per month for May-October, and a max of 40 permits per month for November and December. All permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis! Permits are $300 for wedding ceremonies.

Know your limitations: You can’t have more than 30 people with you for your wedding ceremony, this includes you, your partner, and your photographer. Unfortunately, most spots are off-limits for wedding ceremonies…Within the park, there are 12 sites where you can hold your ceremony. Lastly, be sure to choose a location that is accessible and appropriate for your group size and mobility level! The elevation and vertical gain in RMNP is no joke.

Consider the weather: The weather in Rocky Mountain National Park can be unpredictable, so be sure to plan for the possibility of rain, wind, or even snow. Bring appropriate clothing and gear, and consider having a backup indoor location in case of inclement weather.

Respect the park and its wildlife: As you plan your elopement, be sure to respect the park’s rules and regulations, and take care to minimize your impact on the environment. Additionally, be sure to give wildlife plenty of space and avoid disturbing their natural behavior.

If you’re wanting to take photos in the park outside of a wedding ceremony, you can shoot anywhere in the park that is open to the public! There is a $50 fee for this.

Overall, Rocky Mountain National Park is a beautiful and memorable location for an elopement, but it’s important to plan ahead and be mindful of the park’s regulations and guidelines.

Want to work together for your RMNP elopement? Let’s chat!