Colorado Session Locations

The best places for photo sessions & elopements in Colorado!

Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs

This spot is iconic. It is home to gigantic jagged red rock formations that create an otherworldly landscape. It is a popular tourist location and can be crowded at the overlooks, so I recommend one of the more private spots tucked into the rocks for vows. This is always an all time favorite for folks seeing Colorado for the first time!

Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park

One of the most spectacular “must-see” spots in Colorado. Stunning mountainous landscapes are visible from many different locations, as well as creeks, rock formations, elk, and lush plains.

1.5 hours from Denver. Ceremonies must take place in a designated ceremony site and be reserved ahead of time (even ceremonies with just the couple). Sprague Lake is shown in the 2nd photo below. Couple/family photos can be taken anywhere in the park!

Loveland Pass

Loveland Pass has it all with some of the most sweeping and epic views of the mountains I have seen without having to go far from Denver! It is about 1-1.5 hours from Denver on the way to Lake Dillon and open year-round. At 11,990 feet, be prepared for some elevation! There is a summit lake, wildflowers (depending on month), and breathtaking mountain views. The area surrounding the lake is lush and green in the summer. It is a steep drive up with a drop-off alongside a small part of the road, but if you can brave the drive, it is so worth it!

Clinton Gulch Reservoir, Summit County

I love how secluded in the mountains this spot feels with only a 10 minute flat walk from the parking lot! It has stunning views in the background + water where you can fish, and little wildflowers depending on season. It is also surrounded by gorgeous pine trees for a wooded look. There are plenty of spots along shore to find privacy for vows. Sometimes you can hear very faint road noise in the background if it’s completely quiet but I barely notice!

Brainard Lake, Ward

This is one of my all time favorite spots. Open mid-June to mid-October. The stunning lake is surrounded by sweeping mountainous views, and rocky beaches. This spot encompasses all of the natural beauty Colorado has to offer in one location, plus is a 5 minute walk. They also allow groups larger than 12 (up to 40 guests.) The area provides picnic tables, benches, and bathrooms as well! Plus, you might see a moose. View a gallery here.

Lake Isabelle, Ward

Located above Brainard Lake, this 4.4 mile hike is perfect for intermediate hikers who want incredible scenery for their special day. We build 2-3 extra hours in for the hike, and once you reach the top, you’ll see why couples love this spot so much. The mountaintop lake nestled into the mountain backdrop is everything Colorado has to show off and more. And of course there are wildflowers during the summer! Prepare to have your mind blown with beauty here. View a gallery here.

Echo Lake, Idaho Springs

This serene and stunning lake is perfect for couples who don’t want a big hike or walk, but want to be surrounded by nature. Right before you make your way up Mt. Blue Sky, Echo Lake awaits midway up the mountain. You get those distant mountain views with the most stunning reflections on the lake water. The pine trees lining the lake provide greenery and shade if needed. The best part? It is a 5 minute totally flat walk from the car! View a gallery here.

Lake Dillon, Dillon

This is one of my favorite more private alternatives to Sapphire Point Overlook. Situated below Sapphire Point (which requires a reservation for elopements and can tend to get busy), this spot is quite private as it’s technically a fishing area! You can get right next to the water, and watch the gorgeous sunset behind the mountains. The lakeside area is perfect for a ceremony, and we can finish with photos 10 minutes up the mountain closer to Sapphire Point. It is also lined with aspen trees which become colorful in the fall!

Sapphire Point Overlook, Dillon

What a view! And can you believe this view is only a 10 minute walk? We can take photos at the overlook and then move down to the lake below for more backdrops that still showcase both mountains and lake. The lower portion that surrounds Lake Dillon also has rocky “beaches” that look out onto the water and provide more privacy for a ceremony (see the “Lake Dillon” location above.)

*Reservation required for elopements/small events.

Blue Lakes, near Breckenridge

This spot is quite otherworldly and encompasses a variety of backdrops, from the lake at the bottom surrounded by mountains, to the overlook up top (20 minute uphill walk.) The painted hills surround the water, and the fall colors really pop off here. If you aren’t into hiking, the lower lake spot is just as pretty, and has softer lighting!

Pike’s Peak Views, Woodland Park

This top secret spot is a hidden gem, and I hope to keep it that way! It is a pull off on a dirt road, and then a quick 2 minute walk, but is surprisingly private. A few people may come through here and there, but the PERFECT views of Pike’s Peak in the background are 100% worth it. There is also a forested area 5 minutes downhill that is private for vows, and has mountainous views in the background. Everywhere you look, you see mountains! View a gallery here.

Beaver Brook Watershed Trail, Evergreen

I love this hidden gem tucked into Evergreen, about 45 minutes from Denver! This offers distant mountain views and a gorgeous lake with interesting rock formations overlooking the water. And as the name implies, Evergreen is packed with evergreen trees. This is the perfect spot for a picnic! It is a 15 minute slightly uphill walk.

Loch Lomond, Empire

If you are a couple who has always wanted to rent a Jeep and drive somewhere a little more challenging, this spot requires a 4x4 vehicle, truck, or SUV to access. The road up is very rocky (some rocks are quite large) so with the help of a high clearance vehicle, you are able to access this incredible location next to the water. Something about how the mountains look here is so uniquely colorful, and well worth the 30 minute uphill hike.

Maroon Bells, Aspen

Located 4 hours from Denver, this iconic spot is what many think of when they think of Colorado. Not only is it beautifully colorful in the fall, but the lakefront view provides lush greenery in the warmer months. Aspen is known for it’s mountainous views, and there is no lack of those here. It is generally reservable May-October, and reservations must be made well in advance on a first come first serve basis, which can be done here for $200. And yes, we got snow in October!

Lookout Mountain Park, Golden

Lookout Mountain includes great elevated mountainous views, surrounded by forest and pine trees. There are multiple lookout points, plus it is easily accessible via a 30 minute drive from Denver. This spot does tend to get crowded, but there are some private areas nestled in the pine trees for vows. Some lookout spots may be seasonally closed. *This area is no longer recommended for elopement ceremonies due to the lack of private options with views, but is a gorgeous spot near Denver to take photos after a ceremony!

Guanella Pass, Georgetown

I love Guanella Pass, especially in the fall! This is THE spot to see fall colors, but is surprisingly private on weekday evenings (don’t try to go on a weekend during peak fall colors unless you like traffic.) It has incredible views year-round and a small lake nestled within the mountains, a 15 minute walk from the parking lot (2nd photo.) There are also plenty of areas within a 2 minute walk. Wooo variety!

Bald Mountain, Boulder

Bald Mountain offers gorgeous sweeping mountainous views of the city below. It is a 15 minute hike from the parking lot and a quick 30 minute drive from Denver. This area stays quite private given its close proximity to the city. There are many different backdrops, including a rocky formation overlooking the mountains. You can also nestle yourself into the evergreen trees.

Lost Gulch Overlook, Boulder

Lost Gulch has some of the most spectacular mountain views that you can get without traveling more than an hour from Denver. You feel like you are on top of the world, and it’s only a 3 minute walk from the parking lot. Because this spot is so iconic, it can be extremely busy at certain times of the year. However, it can be paired with a more private session or elopement at Sunrise Amphitheater down the road.

Sunrise Amphitheater, Boulder

This rentable amphitheater is the perfect option if you want privacy, or have guests joining you as it can accommodate 100 guests. There is a parking lot right next to it, a restroom, and it’s an easy short walk. Plus watching the sunset from this elevation over the city is breathtaking! If you’re after more epic mountain views, Lost Gulch is a 5 minute drive from here and showcases the other side of the mountain range (pictured above.)

Chautauqua Park, Boulder

This popular park in Boulder showcases some of the best views of the flatirons in the background. Grassy areas lead to many different trails where you can see plenty of mountain views, and even wildflowers during certain summer months. This park tends to be crowded but allows space to walk to find privacy.

South Mesa Trailhead, Boulder

This spot blew me away with how many different beautiful mountain views it had and within only a 10-20 minute walk from the parking lot. It is also full of lush greenery and interesting foliage in the spring and summer! It is reminiscent of Chautauqua Park’s flat irons, but much more private.

NCAR Trail, Boulder

You may notice that there are a lot of gorgeous spots in Boulder. This one is no exception. There are flatiron rock formations nestled into the mountains that are visible from all angles. There is also a sweeping overlook of the city right on the main trail. The spots shown below are an uphill ~15 minute walk. Plus dogs are allowed (as they are in most Boulder locations!) View a gallery here.

Kenosha Pass, Park County

This is one of the best places in Colorado to watch the leaves change in fall. It is surrounded by gorgeous aspen trees and has sweeping views of the mountains. Plus you can get incredible views with only about a 5-10 minute walk from the parking lot.

Golden Gate Canyon State Park, Golden

This is another spectacular area to take in those fall colors during early October. There are private spots for elopements, such as the Red Barn which can be reserved May-October (click here). This area is close to Denver, and there are plenty of beautiful areas to explore within the park.

Roxborough State Park, Littleton

What a special spot. Giant red rock formations are surrounded by sweeping views of the mountains in the distance, as well as lush greenery from spring until early fall. Fountain Valley Overlook and Lyons Overlook are both rentable for elopements, up to 25 guests, with pricing ranging from $75-300.

Red Rocks Canyon State Park, Colorado Springs

This location quickly became one of my all time favorites. It reminds me a lot of Garden of the Gods, and you can actually see those rock formations in the background from this park! However it is larger and more open than Garden of the Gods, and therefore has better spots for privacy and avoiding tourists. There are tons of gorgeous red rock formations, red sand, and mountainous views here. Plus it is an easy walk from the parking lot, even to the more secluded spots! View a gallery here.

Colorado Paint Mines Interpretive Park, Calhan

This is hands down one of the most unique spots I have ever seen. The colorful rock formations appear to be painted with pink and orange (all natural!) and are out of this world and make for an unforgettable experience immersed in nature. It is an easy 10 minute walk from the parking lot, and a 1.5 hour drive from Denver. Special photo permit is required and dogs are not allowed.

Red Rocks, Morrison

Colorado is full of beautiful red rocks that make perfect backdrops for photos. Red Rocks in Morrison is just one of the many places you can see these unique formations. There are also driveable overlook views of the city and mountains below. It is a very easy walk around the park, and a 30 minute drive from Denver. Smaller elopements are allowed, and for larger groups, there are rentable areas throughout the park like the Trading Post and Upper Deck.

Red Rocks Trail, Woodland Park

A quick 10 minute uphill walk from the parking lot leads you to fantastic red rock formations. You can nestle into the red rocks for a ceremony, which are quite private and can accommodate a small group. This is a unique, other-worldly location that is different from the typical Colorado mountain vibe, and also offers pine tree for a wooded look!

St. Mary’s Glacier, Idaho Springs

THESE VIEWS. The 30-40 minute hike uphill is so worth it. The glacier is snowy for most of the year, and the lake and mountains everywhere you look are just stunning. You get that snowcapped look without having to hike far into the mountains. The temperature is comfortable when the sun is out during the summer, but a jacket is always recommended. My couples always love sessions and elopements at this spot, as it really is one of a kind. View a gallery here.

Horsetooth Reservoir, Fort Collins

This is such a unique spot. 1.5 hours from Denver. Photos can be taken right by the water, or higher up with aerial views of the deep blue water below. This location is adorned with interesting rock formations and a Mars-like terrain. This is a great spot for a couples session or small elopement!

Mount Falcon Park, Morrison/Indian Hills

There are two different trailheads for Mount Falcon Park. The one pictured below (in Indian Hills) showcases mountain views and forest trails. The Morrison trailhead has spectacular views of the red rock formations from a lower elevation. Both are incredible spots for photos, and an easy walk! Note that the Indian Hills side lookout does get crowded, but there are other private spots 10 minutes down the trail that have similar mountainous views and much more privacy.

Twin Lakes, Leadville

This is a spot I am going to heavily recommend after visiting! 2.5 hours from Denver, Twin Lakes offers THE most gorgeous mountainous views tucked right behind 2 large (twin) lakes, and it is especially stunning in the fall as the colorful aspens lace yellow through the mountainous peaks. A rocky shore lines the lake which is perfect for a water-side ceremony as well as water activities like fishing or boating (if you want to incorporate something fun into your day!) It is surrounded by biking and hiking trails, and is near some of my favorite camping sites. Plus, you’ll stay pretty cool by the lake year-round, as this area doesn’t get as warm as locations closer to the city.

Chatfield State Park, Littleton

This is a totally different vibe than the typical mountains and fields of Colorado. If you’re feeling beachy and craving some water, this is the spot for you! The sandy beaches offer a cozy place to lounge and snuggle up on a blanket, maybe even have a picnic. Run along the shores of the water and dip your feet in the lake to cool off.

Rabbit Ears Pass, Steamboat Springs

Passes in Colorado are known for their amazing views. Rabbit Ears Pass has lots of pull offs and hiking spots that showcase the mountains in the background. This is also a great spot for post-wedding couple portraits. Steamboat Springs is a 2.5-3 hour drive from Denver.

In Home Session

Get ready for lots of snuggles in bed, cooking together in the kitchen, hanging out on the couch drinking beers, pillow fights, a cozy bath in the claw foot tub, or all of the above. In home sessions offer endless possibilities for capturing how you truly are as a couple in the comfort of your home. These sessions can be done in your own home, in a rented airbnb, or in my home (click here to see it).

Downtown Denver

What better way to explore the historic neighborhoods and stunning architecture of Denver than with a downtown couple/engagement session or elopement? Industrial buildings, cozy homes, murals, blooming flowers, vibrant trees, and brick walls are just some of the downtown elements that we can incorporate into your photos. We can finish your session by grabbing a drink or some food at one of the numerous breweries or restaurants within the city (many also happen to have very picturesque interiors!)

Night Out

What do you two like to do when you go out together? Perhaps its grab some beers, attend a concert in the park, or play pool at your local dive bar. Whatever it is that you enjoy, we can plan a session around it. One of my favorite “out on the town” sessions included bar hopping for fancy cocktails, sipping martinis and taking photos on the floor, getting giant macaroni burritos, and then finishing at a hookah bar. There is so much room for adventure and I make a pretty good third wheel if I do say so myself.

• Hiking locations with mountainous views:

• Butler Gulch - 1hr from Denver, incredible mountain views, wildflowers, water crossings, 5.5mi hike (2-3hr).

• Mayflower Gulch Trail - 1.5hr from Denver, 1.5mi hike uphill until mountainous gulch views and wildflowers.

• Shrine Pass - 1.5hr from Denver, moderate 4mi hike, abundant wildflowers in summer.

• Other beautiful locations:

• Denver Botanical Gardens - near downtown Denver, permit fee required

• Georgetown Lake - 30 minutes from Denver

• Million Dollar Highway - Silverton/Telluride, 6 hours from Denver