A Lake Isabelle elopement is the kind of day that stays with you long after it ends. On July 16th, 2025, my husband and I had the incredible honor of hiking into the Indian Peaks Wilderness with Kirstyn and James for a sunrise elopement experience that felt completely intimate and alive. From the moment we met at the trailhead to the final cheers over riverside BBQ in Black Hawk, the day was filled with laughter, quiet moments, and Colorado’s rugged beauty surrounding every step.

Being a married Colorado elopement photographer and videographer team allows us to fully immerse ourselves in each couple’s adventure. We are not just observers. We are participants in their story. Hiking with Kirstyn and James, sharing in their excitement, photographing their glances, and filming every laugh and gentle touch, we were able to capture both the stillness and movement of their day. Sunrise at Lake Isabelle is breathtaking on its own, but experiencing it alongside a couple who feels like old friends makes it feel alive, intimate, and entirely personal.

Meeting Kirstyn and James at the Trailhead

We met Kirstyn and James at the Long Lake Trailhead at 5:30 AM. The sky was just beginning to blush pink and peach, and the cool, crisp air carried the scent of pine and wet earth. Gravel crunched under our boots as we approached. From the first hug, it felt like greeting friends we had known for years.

Kirstyn’s excitement was palpable, and a touch of nervous energy peeked through her laughter as she mentioned hiking in her wedding dress. James kept the mood light and playful, teasing about who would carry what, how to avoid snagging the bouquet, and joking about the early wake-up call. We laughed with them, me photographing every gesture while my husband captured their movement and dialogue on video.

Even at 5:30 in the morning, the conversation flowed effortlessly. We swapped stories about past hikes, the early morning beauty of Colorado, and the anticipation of being alone in such a pristine place. The connection was immediate, like catching up with old friends after months apart. Those first moments set the tone for the entire day. When couples feel this comfortable, their true personalities shine in both photos and video, creating memories that feel real and lasting.

Hiking to Their Lake Isabelle Elopement Ceremony

The hike to Lake Isabelle is moderate, steadily climbing through dense forests before opening into alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers. At over 11,000 feet elevation, the air is thinner, and every step feels slightly more challenging, but also more rewarding. Hiking this trail is part of the adventure itself, giving couples private moments and quiet space to reflect before the ceremony.

As we walked, the mountains came alive with alpenglow. Colors shifted from deep blue to soft pink and finally to shades of gold that reflected in the rivers and puddles along the trail. Kirstyn and James paused often, pointing out wildflowers or laughing at the occasional loose rock. We documented every small gesture and interaction, fingers brushing, hands held briefly for balance, whispered comments. My husband captured these moments on video, and I focused on freezing the fleeting expressions and candid interactions in photographs.

James offered his hand as Kirstyn carefully navigated a tricky section of the trail. She laughed as she stepped over rocks, and he squeezed her hand encouragingly. The crisp scent of pine, the sound of gravel beneath boots, and the cool breeze made each moment feel grounded in the present. These shared experiences on the trail add layers of depth to a Lake Isabelle elopement, making the ceremony feel like part of a broader adventure rather than a single event.

First Look at Lake Isabelle

Arriving at Lake Isabelle feels like stepping into a painting. The water perfectly mirrors the surrounding peaks, and the early morning light adds a soft, golden glow that seems almost ethereal. We were the only people there, giving Kirstyn and James the privacy they desired for their first look and ceremony.

They changed into their wedding attire in a small clearing among the trees. I photographed every quiet moment while my husband filmed the process. When James first saw Kirstyn, his face lit up with awe, and she laughed through tears of joy. They embraced, and the lake and mountains formed a perfect, natural backdrop. Capturing these details in both photos and video preserved the intimacy and emotion, from the way they held each other to the way Kirstyn rested her head on James’ shoulder.

For couples, these moments explain why Lake Isabelle elopements are so special. Privacy, pristine scenery, and a sense of timelessness allow their connection to shine in a way that feels deeply authentic.

Rock, Paper, Scissors, Vows!

Kirstyn and James decided who would read their vows first by playing rock paper scissors, a small and playful ritual that perfectly reflected their personalities.

Kirstyn went first. Her words were filled with honesty, humor, and warmth, capturing their relationship in a way that made James laugh and tear up at the same time. James followed. His voice started steady, then softened as the gravity of the moment set in. Every glance, gentle squeeze of hands, and shared smile was captured in photography and on video.

This is why having both photos and video at a Lake Isabelle elopement is so important. Photography freezes fleeting expressions and gestures. Video captures the rhythm of speech, laughter, tears, and movement. Together, they tell a story that allows the couple to relive the day in a way that feels immediate and immersive.

Post-Ceremony Portraits at Lake Isabelle

Sunrise at Lake Isabelle is not just beautiful; it is alive. The sky gradually transitions from deep midnight blue to pale peach and then fiery gold, perfectly reflected in the calm lake waters. The quiet of the early morning amplifies the sounds of nature: rustling leaves, distant birdsong, and the gentle lapping of the lake’s edge.

Walking along the shoreline with Kirstyn and James, we captured moments of stillness and movement. Soft touches, quiet smiles, and laughter as they explored the lake were all preserved in photography and on video. Sunrise adds a cinematic quality to Lake Isabelle elopements, creating imagery that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.

If you want to deep dive into how to elope at Lake Isabelle, I wrote this blog just for you!

Celebration at Brainard Lake

After the ceremony, we hiked back to the cars and headed to Brainard Lake for celebration portraits and a champagne pop. Kirstyn and James laughed as the bubbles fizzed over their hands. Just as we thought the morning could not get more memorable, a moose wandered into the lake. Astonishment, laughter, and playful disbelief filled the air as we captured every reaction on camera and video.

The spontaneous wildlife encounter reminded everyone how alive these alpine spaces are. A Lake Isabelle elopement is not just about the couple, but also about the environment, wildlife, and natural rhythms that create memorable and unique moments.

Capturing Their Lake Isabelle Elopement on Video

Video preserves movement, sound, and subtle gestures that photos alone cannot. My husband captured the entire flow of the day, from the hike to first look, rock paper scissors, vows, and the celebration at Brainard Lake.

The video shows Kirstyn brushing a strand of hair from James’ face, their laughter echoing across the water, and the gentle touch of hands clasped during vows. This depth makes the story of their Lake Isabelle elopement feel alive, allowing them to relive the moment as if they were there again.

Ending the Day With BBQ in Black Hawk

After a morning full of adventure, the day ended with riverside BBQ in Black Hawk. The aroma of smoked meats combined with the sound of flowing water, creating a cozy, relaxed ending.

Kirstyn and James reflected on the morning, laughed about the moose, and toasted to the day. We captured candid moments of joy, reflection, and warmth in both photography and video. Ending the day this way provided a perfect contrast to the early morning alpine environment, grounding their adventure in celebration and human connection.

What Kirstyn and James Had to Say About Their Elopement

“My husband and I decided to elope because we wanted a day that was wholeheartedly and truly designed for US. We wanted to feel like ourselves and relish in a day focused solely on our marriage. Bailee and Jake gave us that!!!

Hiring Bailee and Jake was one of the best decisions we could have made. From the moment we met during our first consultation – and through each follow-up and check-in email, Bailee and Jake made us feel so comfortable, they minimized the jitters, got us excited, etc. You name it!

Meeting in person (at the trailhead at 5am !!) could have been awkward. But we felt like we’d known Bailee and Jake FOREVER! They are kind and loving and silly and inquisitive. They wanted to truly know us and who we were (and vice versa!)

My husband and I are not pros in front of the camera. We can be awkward and clunky sometimes. But, Bailee and Jake captured all of our quirks, love, silliness and joy SO BEAUTIFULLY. They helped us to embrace every perfectly imperfect moment of our day.

HIRE THEM. You will not regret it! I wish I could give them 1000 stars – because 5 is just not enough!!”
-Kirstyn and James

Planning Your Lake Isabelle Elopement

Eloping at Lake Isabelle is an extraordinary experience, but thoughtful preparation ensures your day is seamless, stress-free, and deeply personal. Unlike a traditional wedding, every detail of your day at Lake Isabelle is entirely up to you. The trail, the lake, and the surrounding peaks are your backdrop, and your adventure becomes part of the story. Planning well means you get to fully enjoy the moment without worrying about logistics.

Permits and Regulations

Lake Isabelle sits within the Indian Peaks Wilderness, a protected and pristine area that requires careful consideration. Because it is a wilderness area, every vehicle is required to obtain a timed entry, and there are strict limits on group size. This ensures that the lake and surrounding trails remain untouched and accessible for future visitors. You can learn more about Brainard Lake Recreation Area’s timed entry here.

Campfires are prohibited, so if you want to add any celebratory elements, like a small picnic or a champagne toast, make sure it is done safely and without disturbing the environment. Practicing Leave No Trace principles is essential: pack out everything you bring in, avoid trampling delicate alpine flora, and respect wildlife.

Planning ahead for permits, regulations, and environmental guidelines may feel like extra work, but it is what allows your Lake Isabelle elopement to happen in a way that is both private and protected. These rules preserve the wilderness and ensure that future couples can experience the joy of a Lake Isabelle elopement.

Timing Your Day

Timing is everything for a Lake Isabelle elopement. Most couples start their hike between 3-5 AM, giving them enough time to reach the lake by sunrise. This early start allows for a private first look, exchanging vows, and capturing portraits in soft, golden light before the day begins in earnest.

Sunrise light transforms the lake and mountains in a way that is truly cinematic. The alpenglow turns peaks pink, the water mirrors every color in the sky, and the world feels quiet and suspended in time. Hiking early also provides a sense of solitude and intimacy that is hard to find later in the day when other visitors arrive.

Planning your timeline carefully ensures that you are not rushing, leaving space for natural pauses, spontaneous laughter, and quiet reflection. A thoughtful schedule means your day is fully yours, allowing you to soak in every moment from the trailhead to the final toast.

Packing Essentials

Packing for a Lake Isabelle elopement is both practical and strategic. Everything you bring should be lightweight yet functional, allowing you to enjoy the hike and the ceremony without unnecessary stress. Here’s a detailed guide to essentials we recommend:

• Wedding attire:
  Pack your wedding attire in a backpack or garment bag designed for travel. Consider fabrics that can handle dirt or moisture and avoid overly delicate materials that may snag on the trail. Or better yet, just be okay with whatever the day throws at you!
• Hiking boots:
  Sturdy, comfortable footwear is essential. Even if you plan to wear dress shoes for photos, a good pair of boots for the trail ensures you arrive safe and comfortable.
• Water, snacks, and energy bars:
  Hydration and nutrition are vital at high altitude. Small, portable snacks keep energy up during the hike without weighing you down.
• Layers for warmth:
  Morning temperatures at Lake Isabelle can be surprisingly cold, even in July. Pack a light jacket, thermal layers, and a hat for warmth during the ceremony and portraits.
• Champagne or celebratory beverage:
  If you want to pop a bottle after vows, choose a lightweight, easy-to-carry bottle. Mini flutes or reusable cups make the celebration easy on the trail.
• Vow books or personal items:
  Anything you plan to use for the ceremony should be portable and durable. This includes handwritten vows, rings in a small box, or symbolic tokens meaningful to your relationship.

Packing strategically allows you to focus on the adventure, not on what you forgot. Every item contributes to making your Lake Isabelle elopement seamless and enjoyable.

Physical Preparation

Hiking at high elevation is part of the adventure, but it also requires preparation. Acclimating your body for a few days, hydrating consistently, and pacing yourself on the trail can make all the difference. While the hike may feel moderate, the combination of altitude and terrain makes preparation essential for enjoying the experience fully.

Simple physical preparation, such as short hikes at altitude in the days leading up to your elopement, ensures that the trail feels manageable. Stretching before and after hiking and taking breaks along the way helps prevent fatigue. Preparing your body allows you to arrive at the lake feeling energized and present, ready to fully enjoy your first look, vows, and portraits.

Every step is worth the effort. The views from Lake Isabelle, the intimacy of exchanging vows surrounded by mountains, and the joy of adventure shared together make the preparation feel effortless in retrospect.

Preparing Your Body for a Lake Isabelle Elopement

The high elevation and moderate trail make preparation important for any Lake Isabelle elopement. While the hike is accessible to most fit couples, understanding how your body reacts at over 11,000 feet ensures the experience is enjoyable and not exhausting.

Tips for high-altitude elopement hiking

• Acclimate: Spend a few days at elevation so your body can adjust naturally.
• Hydrate: Drink water consistently before and during the hike.
• Dress in layers: Morning temperatures at Lake Isabelle can be cold, even in summer.
• Wear proper footwear: Hiking boots with good grip are essential for safety and comfort.
• Snack often: Energy bars, trail mix, or fruit maintain steady energy.
• Pace yourself: Take breaks, breathe deeply, and enjoy the scenery.

Kirstyn and James’ thoughtful pacing allowed them to fully enjoy the trail. They stopped to admire wildflowers, laughed when they slipped on loose rocks, and exchanged stories about past adventures. These small moments may seem ordinary, but they become defining details of the story we capture in both photos and video. The effort required to reach Lake Isabelle only enhances the reward.

Why a Lake Isabelle Elopement is Worth Every Step

Lake Isabelle combines hiking adventure, alpine beauty, and intimate privacy. The trail itself becomes part of your story, and wildlife may appear to witness your day. The lake’s calm waters reflect the peaks above, creating a visual and emotional backdrop that is difficult to match.

As a married Colorado elopement photographer and videographer team, we observe the subtle interactions between couples: gentle touches, whispered words, and shared laughter. Every step and pause adds depth and intimacy to the narrative, making the story of a Lake Isabelle elopement feel multi-layered, alive, and profoundly personal.

The sense of accomplishment from hiking together, arriving at a secluded lake, and taking the time to celebrate each other elevates the experience far beyond a traditional wedding. The adventure, intimacy, and natural beauty all combine to create memories that last a lifetime.

Make Your Lake Isabelle Elopement Truly Your Own

A Lake Isabelle elopement is an investment in a day that is entirely yours. Every detail, from the timing of sunrise to the items you bring on the trail, reflects your personality, relationship, and sense of adventure. With thoughtful planning and the right support, it becomes a shared adventure full of laughter, heartfelt emotion, and awe-inspiring scenery.

We love helping couples design days that feel genuine and personal. From sunrise ceremonies and playful first looks to champagne celebrations and unexpected wildlife encounters, we capture it. If you’re ready to start planning your Lake Isabelle elopement, reach out to us and we’ll be with you every step of the way!