Bear Lake Elopement & Small Wedding Guide
Posted On | March 24, 2025
A Bear Lake elopement in Rocky Mountain National Park offers an incredible mountain backdrop, surrounded by crystal-clear water and alpine beauty. This popular spot is ideal for couples looking for a picturesque and peaceful ceremony in a stunning location. Whether you’re drawn to its accessible setting, the breathtaking views, or its year-round appeal, here’s everything you need to know to plan your Bear Lake wedding.
Bear Lake Elopement Quick Facts
Why Couples Love Bear Lake
It’s located at the trailhead of the ever-popular Dream Lake hike and has views of the towering Hallet Peak that is distinguishable in that area.
Availability
Ceremonies are only allowed on weekdays from the second Tuesday in October to the Thursday before Memorial Day.
CAPACITY
Up to 20 people with parking for up to 5 vehicles
Cost to elope
$300 for a wedding permit + $35 park entrance fee per car
Accessibility
Since this location is only accessible in winter, conditions can sometimes make it tricky for those with accessibility needs. We highly recommend using foot traction to stay safe.
Restrooms
Vault toilets are available at the trailhead
Bear Lake Coordinates
Where is Bear Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park?
The Bear Lake wedding site is located along the Bear Lake Corridor of Rocky Mountain National Park, easily accessible from the Beaver Meadows Entrance near Estes Park. The lake is surrounded by stunning mountain peaks, offering multiple scenic viewpoints and a beautiful shoreline, which makes it an unforgettable elopement location.
Bear Lake Coordinates
How Much Does a Bear Lake Wedding Cost?
A wedding permit for the Bear Lake wedding venue costs $300 for a two-hour time slot. Whether you are holding your ceremony there or just taking photos, each vehicle in your party will also need to purchase a $35 day pass.
Rocky Mountain National Park wedding permits open on the first day of the month one year in advance. For example, if you plan to get married on June 15, 2026, you should submit your permit application on June 1, 2025.
Permits during peak season (May through October) are highly sought after and often sell out quickly. To increase your chances of securing your preferred date and location, we recommend applying as soon as reservations open. Flexibility with your date, considering a weekday ceremony, or being open to alternative locations can also be helpful!
Do I Need a Timed Entry Reservation for A Bear Lake Elopement?
It depends! From mid-May to mid-October, Rocky Mountain National Park requires a Timed Entry+ Reservation from 5:00 am to 6:00 pm for locations inside the Bear Lake Corridor, including Bear Lake.
- If you have a Bear Lake wedding permit, it acts as your reservation starting two hours before your ceremony and for the rest of the day.
- If you’re taking photos only at Bear Lake during the timed entry period, you will need to reserve a spot in advance.
Check RMNP’s website for the most up-to-date information on their timed entry system.
What Are the Rules for Eloping at Bear Lake?
To preserve the beauty of the park while allowing couples to celebrate, there are a few important guidelines to follow during your Bear Lake elopement:
- No weddings are permitted on weekends, nor from the Friday before Memorial Day through the 2nd Monday in October. This is a winter-only site.
- All ceremonies, even if it’s just the two of you, must take place at designated ceremony sites in the park, which include Bear Lake.
- Exclusive use of the site is not allowed, so you will likely have other visitors around during your ceremony.
- Drones are not permitted anywhere in the park.
- Dogs are not allowed at Bear Lake.
- Decorations, altars, tables, tents, floral displays, generators, and the scattering of materials (such as rice, confetti, or birdseed) are prohibited. Chairs are allowed only for guests who cannot stand during the ceremony.
- Your group size is limited to 20 people total, which includes the couple, any guests, and any vendors present.
When Is the Best Time to Get Married at Bear Lake?
A Bear Lake micro wedding is beautiful year-round, and each season brings something special.
Summer Bear Lake Elopement
Mid-June through Early September
Warm temperatures, vibrant wildflowers, and long daylight hours. Expect afternoon thunderstorms. Note – you can only take pictures at Bear Lake during the summer. No ceremonies are allowed.
Winter Bear Lake Elopement
Mid-November through February
A serene, snow-covered landscape with fewer visitors and dramatic mountain views. It can be quite cold, though.
Fall Bear Lake Elopement
Cooler air, stunning fall colors, and fewer crowds. Snow may arrive in early October. Note – you can only take pictures at Bear Lake in September and early October. No ceremonies are allowed until the second Tuesday in October.
Spring Bear Lake Elopement
March through May
Unpredictable weather with lingering snow, and it’s the least crowded time to visit. March tends to be the snowiest month!
What Is the Best Time of Day to Elope at Bear Lake?
Bear Lake is one of the most popular places to visit in RMNP. Because of this, we recommend aiming for sunrise and catching the alpenglow, or just before sunset in order to avoid crowds and have the most privacy.
How to Get Married at Bear Lake
- Choose Your Date – Consider the season and typical weather conditions for the time of year. Keep in mind that weddings are only allowed at Bear Lake on weekdays from the second Tuesday in October to the Thursday before Memorial Day.
- Apply for Your Bear Lake Wedding Permit – You can apply online, or if you hire us, we can handle the permit application for you!
- Hire a Photographer – We specialize in Rocky Mountain National Park elopements and know all the best spots in the park!
- Plan Your Attire – Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing for the uneven terrain and varying conditions. Traction devices on your shoes are recommended!
- Get Your Marriage License – Pick it up at any Clerk and Recorder’s office in Colorado. Learn more here.
Top Tips for Your Bear Lake Elopement
A little preparation can make your elopement stress-free and enjoyable. Here are some helpful tips for your day at Bear Lake:
Explore more of the park!
Before or after your ceremony, consider visiting some other scenic spots in RMNP. It’s a great way to capture even more photos and enjoy the diverse landscapes. Check out our guide to the best locations to explore!
Be ready for unpredictable weather.
Conditions at Bear Lake can shift quickly—clear mornings often lead to afternoon thunderstorms, especially in the summer. In the winter, snowstorms can blow in quickly and temperatures can suddenly drop. Be sure to bring layers, stay updated on the weather, and be prepared for any surprises. For more tips on staying warm for your winter elopement, check out this guide!
Give yourself time to adjust to the altitude.
RMNP sits between 7,500 and 14,000 feet, and Bear Lake is located over 9,400 feet in elevation. If you’re coming from a lower elevation, arrive at least a day or two early to acclimate. Stay hydrated and avoid excessive physical activity to prevent altitude sickness.
Bring traction devices for your shoes.
In the winter, snow and ice can make the trails around Bear Lake extremely slippery. It’s a good idea to bring traction devices like Yaktrax for your shoes. These will help keep you steady and safe as you walk to your ceremony spot.
Check the dates for free admission days.
On designated free days, entrance fees are waived, making the park more crowded than usual. If your wedding date falls on one of these days, be prepared for more visitors and limited parking. In 2025, the free admission dates are:
- Tuesday, November 11
- Thursday, January 9
- Monday, January 20
- Saturday, April 19
- Thursday, June 19
- Monday, August 4
- Saturday, September 27
Watch out for wildlife.
Bear Lake is home to diverse wildlife, including moose, elk, and deer. Always keep a safe distance and stay alert. While moose and other wildlife are generally peaceful, it’s important to respect their space.
Don’t forget sunscreen and bug spray.
The sun is strong at high altitudes, even on cloudy days and especially in winter, so sunscreen is essential. In warmer months, mosquitoes and other bugs can be persistent around the lakes and meadows. Bug spray will keep you comfortable during your ceremony and photos.
Plan for parking.
During peak times of day (typically sunrise through mid-afternoon), Bear Lake’s parking lot can fill up quickly. Arriving before sunrise or in the late afternoon will give you better chances for convenient parking. If the lot is full, you might be required to take the shuttle instead!
Bear Lake Wedding Pictures
Real Rocky Mountain National Park Weddings
The Proof Is In The Pudding! Check out a few of the RMNP Weddings We’ve Photographed
Wendy & Joseph
Ali & Tom
Paige & Braden
Lydia & Braxton
Bear Lake Wedding Photographers
Who We Are
We’re two born and raised Coloradoans who have spent our whole lives exploring every corner of this state.
Larissa (left) is the person who always chimes a smiley “hi!” on the hiking trail.
Bailey (right) is the person who will absolutely cry at your wedding.
Together we’ve planned and photographed 400+ elopements and small weddings in Colorado (100+ in the Rocky Mountain National Park alone), collectively been to 46 countries, and agree that cracking a local beer around a campfire is the best way to end a day.
We’re More Than Just Photographers
We’re here to make this process easier than “accidentally” binge-watching the newest season of your favorite show.
Every single elopement package includes:
Bear Lake Wedding Packages
What’s Included
4+ Hours of Photography Coverage With A Bear Lake Photographer
We intentionally document your day with both digital and film. Includes high-resolution digital images, printing rights, a shareable online gallery, and free album design.
Full Small WEdding Planning Assistance
When we say we help with it all, we mean it. Location scouting and ideas. Vetted, LGBTQ+ allied, Estes Park wedding vendors who know elopements. Recs for activities to do on your elopement day. Stress-free timeline planning. Planning resources and ideas. Unlimited communication because we never leave you high and dry.
Overwhelmed with How To Plan A Colorado Elopement?
Download Our Free Colorado Elopement Planning Guide & Checklist
40+ pages of ideas, tips, and a step-by-step checklist to make your dream elopement come to life.
Are You Freakin’ REady?
We’re 100% here for whatever day you’re dreaming up. Fill out our contact form to start chatting.
Are You Freakin’ REady?
We’re 100% here for whatever day you’re dreaming up. Fill out our contact form to start chatting.
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