Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the best places to elope in Colorado. Whoa, I know. That is seriously a big claim but I’m not afraid to make it! One of the best things about choosing a winter Rocky Mountain National Park elopement is that it is accessible year round and wintertime is one of the most underrated seasons in the park.

Tori and Mike both work at a ski resort in New Mexico, so when they reached out to me about their Rocky Mountain National Park elopement, they knew it had to be in winter! When they reached out to me about their elopement, they told me that they had never visited Rocky Mountain National Park. I was so excited to show Tori and Mike around one of my favorite places in Colorado while also documenting their love story. And let me tell you, it was one for the books!

Eloping in Rocky Mountain National Park

There are thirteen designated ceremony sites within the park. Tori and Mike chose to elope at Bear Lake and then hike up to Emerald Lake. I absolutely adore Bear Lake for winter elopements because you get really incredible views no matter where you are on the lake. If you want to learn more about eloping in Rocky Mountain National Park, this blog is for you! Here is the official park website for more information.

When Bear Lake is completely frozen, you can actually have your ceremony right on the lake! Tori and Mike met me at the trailhead where we then scoped out the perfect ceremony location. They shared the sweetest vows privately, just the two of them, exchanged rings, and sealed it all with a kiss. It was truly one of the most tender ceremonies I have ever seen.

Wintry Rocky Mountain National Park Elopement Portraits at Bear Lake

After Tori and Mike’s heartfelt ceremony on Bear Lake, we kept the adventure going by hiking around the lake for additional portraits before setting out for Emerald Lake. Can we take a minute to SWOON over Tori’s black wedding dress?! You totally don’t need to wear white on your wedding day, you can wear literally whatever color you want! I loved that Tori’s floral crown perfectly complimented her black gown. Looking for some non-traditional dress inspo? I’ve got just the blog for you!

Hiking to Emerald Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park

After romping around Bear Lake, Tori, Mike, and I strapped on our spikes and headed out for Emerald Lake. It was such a fun experience having the entire trail to ourselves! Before Emerald Lake, we passed Dream Lake where Tori and Mike shared a small cake and celebrated their love. We ended their elopement day by watching the sun set over Emerald Lake. It was the most peaceful and incredible way to end a wedding day with the most incredible views!

Let’s Plan Your Colorado Elopement!

We might be a little bit biased, but we think that Colorado is the perfect place to elope any time of year! Whether you’re looking for a winter snowshoe elopement, to say your vows among the changing aspen trees, or those big mountain views, there is something for everyone here!

Hey, we’re Jake and Bailee. We’re a husband and wife Colorado elopement photography and videography team. We’re two easy-going humans who love the outdoors and are passionate about Colorado adventure elopements. We wholeheartedly believe that marrying your best friend in the great outdoors is the best way to get married! Not only will we document your elopement, but we’ll help you every step of the way to make sure that you have the most incredible wedding experience! Ready to start planning the Colorado elopement of your dreams? Click here to reach out! We can’t wait to meet you both!