A Snowy Hiking Elopement in Rocky Mountain National Park

Bride and groom kissing in the snow during their Rocky Mountain National Park hiking elopement

Adventure, snow, and love were the themes of Shannon and James’s chilly hiking elopement in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Shannon and James epitomize what it means to be an adventurous couple: they met during a 10-day mountaineering trip, got engaged while rock climbing in Estes Park, and have had countless incredible adventures inbetween. When they reached out and shared their story I knew we’d get along!

Choosing a Rocky Mountain Backdrop

In their inquiry, Shannon and James said they wanted to elope in the mountains during late fall, but were flexible on location.

They were hoping to incorporate an alpine lake and some snow or ice into the backdrop of their elopement destination. They described a day with beautiful scenery, a private ceremony, and plenty of quality time together.

With that information in mind, I helped them choose an area that would be perfect at that time of year: Rocky Mountain National Park.

I absolutely adore Rocky in the winter. You can still easily access insane mountain views, and the crowds die down. It’s truly a winter wonderland!

Rocky Mountain National Park Elopement Guide

Bride and groom posing on a frozen lake during their Rocky Mountain National Park hiking elopement

Sunrise Hike

We started with a sunrise hike to some alpine lakes that are (unfortunately) not on the park’s list of designated wedding ceremony locations, but was a gorgeous spot for photos to start off the day. During the hike, we had fun chatting about how the couple met and all their adventures together. It really felt like the perfect way to start off the day!

We hiked all the way to the furthest lake, where Shannon and James changed into their wedding attire in a pop-up tent they brought along!

We got to watch the sun light up the mountains – absolutely stunning, but also quite cold! We took plenty of “warm-up breaks,” hiding from the wind behind a big rock and sharing hot drinks.

Then we started our hike back down, stopping at another lake along the way to take some photos with the mountains glowing in the early morning light. I also snagged some adorable pictures of Shannon and James enjoying the gorgeous snowy landscape together during the hike.

Couple hiking on a trail through the snow during their Rocky Mountain National Park hiking elopement
A groom reading vows to a bride on a frozen lake during their Rocky Mountain National Park hiking elopement

Ceremony at Bear Lake

We warmed up a bit in the car before heading back out to their ceremony location at Bear Lake – which is one of the coolest ceremony spots in Rocky Mountain National Park. I absolutely love when the lake freezes over!

Bear Lake is also the trailhead for several of the most iconic hikes in the Estes Park area, which makes it an especially great ceremony choice for a Rocky Mountain National Park hiking elopement!

Check out my blog on the best hikes in Estes Park for more hiking elopement inspiration!

Their VIP Guest

At the last minute, Shannon and James decided to extend their photography coverage so they could go pick up their dog – an adorable puggle named Roger – to include in some pictures. Roger even got to sign the marriage license!

Did you know?

Colorado is a self-solemnization state, meaning an officiant and witnesses aren’t legally required to get married, so in most counties your dog (or other kind of furry friend) can sign your marriage license!

Shannon & James’s Review

Sam was everything we could have hoped to have for our elopement. From our first phone call she exuded enthusiasm and made us feel like she truly had our backs. Her communication was prompt and professional, from location guide to timeline. She was so fun to spend the day with and accommodating of last minute adjustments all with a smile on her face. Her photos are gorgeous and speak for themselves. We were ecstatic to get many sneak peeks same day! We could not have asked for a better person to capture our day. Sam is skilled at what she does and is amazing company to boot!

A bride and groom posing next to a trail marker sign during their Rocky Mountain National Park hiking elopement

Ready to plan your own Elopement?

Hey there, the name’s Sam! I cannot wait to chat with you.

This is gonna be epic.

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