2026 Garden of the Gods Elopement & Wedding Guide

Q: High Point Overlook

Number of people: Up to 50 people. But, if you want more of the rocky vibes, instead of the pavilion, we recommend 20 or less people. Best for: Couples who want big views without a big hike. This overlook sits at one of the highest accessible points in the park, with sweeping views of the red rocks and Pikes Peak in the distance. It's paved and easy to reach, but it's also popular with tourists, so plan accordingly. Sunrise or late afternoon will give you the best shot at some quiet.

Q: Jacyee Plaza / Chuckwagon Pavilion

Number of people: Up to 50 people Best for: Couples who want a solid backup plan or need easy accessibility. Jacyee Plaza is located near the Chuckwagon Pavilion and offers covered seating, which makes it a smart choice if the weather looks questionable or if you have guests who need shade or shelter. The views aren't quite as dramatic as some of the other spots, but you're still surrounded by red rocks and the convenience factor is hard to beat. This is also a great option if you want to transition straight into a casual picnic reception without moving locations. It's practical without sacrificing the beauty that makes Garden of the Gods special.

Q: Three Graces Plaza

Number of people: Up t0 25 people Best for: The classic Garden of the Gods backdrop. Three Graces is probably the most iconic view in the park, and for good reason. The towering red rock formations create a natural cathedral, and the plaza itself is flat and paved. Just know that this is also one of the busiest spots, especially midday in the summer. If this is your spot, go early or late.

Q: Sentinel Plaza

Number of people: Up to 25 people Best for: Couples who want dramatic rock formations with a bit more elbow room. Sentinel Plaza sits near the central Garden area and offers stunning views of some of the park's most impressive spires. It's paved and accessible, making it easy for guests of all mobility levels. This spot tends to be slightly less crowded than Three Graces, but you'll still see visitors passing through. The rock formations here create a powerful backdrop without feeling overwhelming, and the plaza itself gives you enough space to gather your people without feeling cramped.

Q: Scotsman Picnic Area

Number of people: Up to 25 people Best for: Couples who want to include a casual picnic or small reception right after the ceremony. This is one of the only spots in the park where you can have food and hang out for a bit without feeling like you're in the way. There are picnic tables, some shade, and space to spread out. It's less dramatic visually, but if community and celebration are big parts of your day, this could be your spot.

Q: South Spring Canyon Area

Number of people: Up to 50 people Best for: A quieter experience with less foot traffic. This area is tucked into the southern part of the park and tends to see fewer visitors. You'll still get beautiful rock formations and open sky, but with a bit more breathing room. It's also another option if you want to include a picnic as part of your celebration.

Posted On | February 9, 2026

Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs is one of Colorado’s most popular free elopement venues, offering dramatic red rock formations and no permit requirements for wedding ceremonies under 50 people. It’s accessible, only an hour south of Denver, incredibly photogenic, and perfect whether you’re eloping just the two of you or celebrating with a small group.

This complete guide covers logistics, the best ceremony locations, timing, rules, and what to expect when you get married at Garden of the Gods in 2026.

View Garden of the Gods Wedding & Elopement Packages

Garden of the Gods Wedding FAQs

Yes, you can elope or have a small wedding and get married at Garden of the Gods.

Choose from ceremony spots like Three Graces Plaza, High Point Overlook, or Sentinel Plaza

$0 for the venue and $35 for your Colorado marriage license.

There’s no fee to get married at Garden of the Gods. The only required cost is your Colorado marriage license ($35), which you can pick up from any county clerk’s office. Your total wedding budget will depend on optional services like photography, an officiant, or flowers.

No permit is needed for groups under 50 people.

No, all ceremony locations are first-come, first-served.

Arriving 30-60 minutes early (especially at popular spots like Three Graces) gives you the best chance of securing your desired location. Because it’s a publicly accessible area, blocking off areas (including parking) is not permitted.

Yes, you can have up to 50 guests without a permit (25 at some locations). However, parking is extremely limited, so groups of 15-20+ will struggle. Weekday sunrise ceremonies work best for larger groups.

Sunrise (5am-7am) or sunset (golden hour, ~2 hours before dark) are best. Sunrise offers fewer crowds and better privacy, especially on weekdays. Sunset has stunning golden light but expect more tourists. Avoid midday on weekends when crowds peak.

You cannot bring: alcohol, decorations, chairs (except for elderly/disabled guests), tables, arches, tents, amplified sound, or any items you plan to release (balloons, confetti, rice, flower petals, butterflies). Keep it simple and natural

Yes! Dogs are welcome at your Garden of the Gods elopement. They must be on a 6-foot (or shorter) leash at all times, and you’re responsible for cleaning up after them. Bring water for your pup, especially in summer.

Start Here To Plan Your Garden of The Gods Wedding

Cost & Permits

Garden Of The Gods Wedding Cost

Here’s the best part: there’s no fee to get married at Garden of the Gods. The only required cost to get married at Garden of the Gods is your Colorado marriage license, which runs $35 and can be picked up from any county clerk’s office in the state.

How Much Does It Cost to Elope?

Garden of the Gods Wedding Permit

You don’t need a permit if you’re keeping it under 50 people. Garden of the Gods allows small, brief wedding ceremonies without any paperwork or advance notice. You just show up, say your vows, and that’s it.

If you’re planning a larger gathering (50+ people), you’ll need to either rent one of the park’s pavilions or apply for a Special Event Permit. But for most couples eloping here, this isn’t something you’ll need to think about.

Best Ceremony Spots At Garden of the Gods

High Point Overlook

Number of people: Up to 50 people. But, if you want more of the rocky vibes, instead of the pavilion, we recommend 20 or fewer people.
Best for: Couples who want big views without a big hike. The High Point Overlook wedding site sits at one of the highest accessible points in the park, with sweeping views of the red rocks and Pikes Peak in the distance. It’s paved and easy to reach, but it’s also popular with tourists, so plan accordingly. Sunrise will give you the best shot at some quiet. Since it’s one of the best places within Garden of the Gods to watch the sunset, it’s not always quiet here in the evenings.

Jacyee Plaza / Chuckwagon Pavilion

Number of people: Up to 50 people
Best for: Couples who want a solid backup plan or need easy accessibility. Jacyee Plaza is located near the Chuckwagon Pavilion and offers covered seating, which makes it a smart choice if the weather looks questionable or if you have guests who need shade or shelter. The views aren’t quite as dramatic as some of the other spots, but you’re still surrounded by red rocks and the convenience factor is hard to beat. This is also a great ceremony option if you want to transition straight into a casual picnic reception without moving locations. It’s practical without sacrificing the beauty that makes Garden of the Gods special.

Deep Dive Into Your Elopement at Garden of the Gods

Wedding Ceremony Locations at Garden of the Gods

Where can you get married at Garden of the Gods? There are a handful of ceremony spots that work really well, depending on your vibe and how many people you’re bringing. Here’s what you need to know about each one.

Ceremony Location	Why Choose It?	Capacity	Accessibility	Crowd Level
Three Graces Plaza	Most iconic backdrop	25 people	♿ Paved	⚠️ High (especially midday)
High Point Overlook	Panoramic views with the mountains	50 people	♿ Paved, but some rocky areas for best views	⚠️ High (especially midday)
Sentinel Plaza	Great views, less crowded	25 people	♿ Paved	✓ Medium-High
Jacyee Plaza	Dramatic views, designated area	50 people	♿ Paved	⚠️ High (especially midday)
Scotsman Picnic Area	Post-ceremony picnic	25 people	♿ Paved	✓ Low-Medium
South Spring Canyon	Most privacy	50 people	⚠️ Trail access	✅ Low

Legend:
♿ = Wheelchair accessible
⚠️ = Plan accordingly

Three Graces Plaza

Capacity: 25 people
Accessibility: ♿ Paved
Crowd Level: ⚠️ High (especially midday)
Why Choose It: Most iconic backdrop

High Point OVerlook (Our Fave For Small Groups)

Capacity: 50 people
Accessibility: ♿ Paved, but some rocky areas for best views
Crowd Level: ⚠️ High (especially midday)
Why Choose It: Panoramic views with the mountains

Sentinel Plaza

Capacity: 25 people
Accessibility: ♿ Paved
Crowd Level: ✓ Med – High
Why Choose It: Great views, slightly less crowded

Jacyee Plaza (Our Fave For Large Groups)

Capacity: 50 people
Accessibility: ♿ Paved
Crowd Level: ⚠️ High (especially midday)
Why Choose It: Dramatic views, designated area

Scotsman Picnic Area

Capacity: 25 people
Accessibility: ♿ Paved
Crowd Level: ✓ Low-Medium
Why Choose It: Post-ceremony picnic

South Spring Canyon

Capacity: 50 people
Accessibility: ⚠️ Gravel trail
Crowd Level: ✅ Low
Why Choose It: Most privacy, post-ceremony picnic

Garden of the Gods Elopement Ceremony Location Details

Number of people: Up to 50 people. But, if you want more of the rocky vibes, instead of the pavilion, we recommend 20 or less people.
Best for: Couples who want big views without a big hike. This overlook sits at one of the highest accessible points in the park, with sweeping views of the red rocks and Pikes Peak in the distance. It’s paved and easy to reach, but it’s also popular with tourists, so plan accordingly. Sunrise or late afternoon will give you the best shot at some quiet.

Number of people: Up to 50 people
Best for: Couples who want a solid backup plan or need easy accessibility. Jacyee Plaza is located near the Chuckwagon Pavilion and offers covered seating, which makes it a smart choice if the weather looks questionable or if you have guests who need shade or shelter. The views aren’t quite as dramatic as some of the other spots, but you’re still surrounded by red rocks and the convenience factor is hard to beat. This is also a great option if you want to transition straight into a casual picnic reception without moving locations. It’s practical without sacrificing the beauty that makes Garden of the Gods special.

Number of people: Up t0 25 people
Best for: The classic Garden of the Gods backdrop. Three Graces is probably the most iconic view in the park, and for good reason. The towering red rock formations create a natural cathedral, and the plaza itself is flat and paved. Just know that this is also one of the busiest spots, especially midday in the summer. If this is your spot, go early or late.

Number of people: Up to 25 people
Best for: Couples who want dramatic rock formations with a bit more elbow room. Sentinel Plaza sits near the central Garden area and offers stunning views of some of the park’s most impressive spires. It’s paved and accessible, making it easy for guests of all mobility levels. This spot tends to be slightly less crowded than Three Graces, but you’ll still see visitors passing through. The rock formations here create a powerful backdrop without feeling overwhelming, and the plaza itself gives you enough space to gather your people without feeling cramped.

Number of people: Up to 25 people
Best for: Couples who want to include a casual picnic or small reception right after the ceremony. This is one of the only spots in the park where you can have food and hang out for a bit without feeling like you’re in the way. There are picnic tables, some shade, and space to spread out. It’s less dramatic visually, but if community and celebration are big parts of your day, this could be your spot.

Number of people: Up to 50 people
Best for: A quieter experience with less foot traffic. This area is tucked into the southern part of the park and tends to see fewer visitors. You’ll still get beautiful rock formations and open sky, but with a bit more breathing room. It’s also another option if you want to include a picnic as part of your celebration.

For more help finding the perfect elopement location in Colorado, check out these helpful guides:

Best CO Elopement Locations

Best CO Small Wedding Venues

Rules & Regulations for Garden of the Gods Wedding

Garden of the Gods is pretty chill, but there are a few guidelines to keep in mind:

✅ Weddings must be small, brief ceremonies. Think vows and a kiss, not a full production.
❌ No receptions unless you’re picnicking at Scotsman or South Spring Canyon.
❌ Absolutely no alcohol. Not even champagne for a toast.
❌ No chairs (except for elderly or disabled guests), tables, tents, arches, or decorations of any kind.
❌ Don’t release anything. No butterflies, birds, balloons, rice, confetti, or flower petals.
✅ Stay on established trails. Don’t block parking or pathways.
✅ Respect other visitors. This is a public park, and you’ll likely share your ceremony spot with hikers and tourists.
❌ Noise permits aren’t granted, so keep sound levels reasonable.

The rules exist to protect the landscape and make sure everyone can enjoy the space. Honestly, we love that about this place. You don’t need props or extra stuff to make a Garden of the Gods wedding feel special. The rocks do the work.

When To Get Married in Colorado Springs

Best Time Of Year To Get Married in Colorado Springs

There’s no bad season here, but each one has its own personality.

🌸 Spring (Apr – May) Our Top Pick!

Temps: 60s/40s
Best for: Wildflowers and less crowds
Watch out for: Unpredictable weather (can snow in May)
Pro tip: Monitor the forecast closely and have a backup plan ready

☀️ Summer (Jun – Aug)

Temps: 80s/50s
Best for: Long daylight hours, guaranteed warm weather
Watch out for: Crowds, afternoon thunderstorms, heats
Pro tip: Do sunrise ceremonies to beat heat and crowds

🍂 Fall (Sep – Nov) Runner Up

Temps: 60s/30s
Best for: Golden light, slightly fewer crowds, stable weather
Watch out for: Temperatures drop quickly as you move toward November
Pro tip: This is prime time for finding quiet moments at Garden of the Gods

❄️ Winter (Dec – Mar)

Temps: 40s/20s
Best for: Fewer crowds, easier access than mountain towns
Watch out for: Less snow than high-altitude locations
Pro tip: Boulder is warmer and more accessible than Breckenridge/RMNP in winter

When’s the best time to elope in Colorado?

Best Time of Day To Get Married in Colorado Springs

Sunrise Elopement at Garden of the Gods

Avoid crowds, better parking
Avoid afternoon thunderstorms
Soft light, peaceful atmosphere
Chilly temps (good in summer – cold in other seasons)
4-5 AM wake-up, getting ready in the dark

Sunset Elopement at Garden of the Gods

Unreal golden hour (last hour before sunset)
Most stunning light with west-facing, mountain views
Sleep in, no rush getting ready
More crowded, harder parking
Potential thunderstorms in summer

How Does Time of Day Impact Your Photos?

Planning Tips

Get Your Marriage License Early
Colorado makes this easy—no waiting period, no residency requirement. Visit any county clerk’s office with your IDs and $35. Colorado allows self-solemnization, so you don’t even need an officiant if you don’t want one. How to Self-Solemnize in Colorado →

Plan for a Weekday
If privacy matters to you, aim for Monday through Thursday. Weekends get busy, especially in summer. Weekday mornings are the quietest.

Check Weather Forecasts
Mountain weather changes fast. Check the forecast the morning of your ceremony and bring layers. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer but usually pass quickly.

Arrive Early
Get to your ceremony spot 30-60 minutes before your planned start time. All locations are first-come, first-served, and popular spots fill up fast.

Prepare for High Altitude
At 6,400 feet, you might feel slightly off if you’re coming from sea level. Drink more water than you think you need, take it slow, and give yourself time to adjust.

Pack Smart
☀️ Sunscreen – The sun is intense at elevation
🦟 Bug spray – Can be needed depending on season
🧥 Layers – Temperature can drop 10-15°F after sunset
💧 Water – Stay hydrated at altitude
🗑️ Trash bag – Pack out everything you bring in

Respect Wildlife
You might see bighorn sheep, deer, or other animals. Keep your distance, don’t feed them, and let them do their thing.

Casual Dining & Drinks in Colorado Springs

Bristol Brewing Company – Local brewery with patio seating, 10 min from the park
Wines of Colorado – Wine tasting room with Colorado wines, great for intimate groups
Garden of the Gods Trading Post Café – Convenient, right at the park entrance
The Rabbit Hole – Upscale cocktails and small plates in downtown Colorado Springs

Sit-Down Reception Dinners in Colorado Springs

The Famous Steak House – Upscale steakhouse, private dining available
Shuga’s – Farm-to-table restaurant, cozy atmosphere
Paravicini’s Italian Bistro – Romantic Italian spot in Old Colorado City

Private Reception Venue Rentals (if you want a dedicated space) in Colorado Springs

Cheyenne Mountain Resort – Full-service resort with event spaces
The Mining Exchange – Historic downtown hotel with beautiful private rooms
Kinship Landing – Boutique hotel with rooftop terrace

Make a weekend of it! Here’s what to do beyond your elopement:

Outdoor Adventures

Pikes Peak Summit – Drive or hike to 14,115 feet (allow 4-6 hours round trip)
Manitou Incline – Intense 2,000+ step hike (if you’re feeling ambitious)
Red Rock Canyon Open Space – Less crowded alternative hiking near Garden of the Gods
Cave of the Winds – Underground cave tours

Relaxation & Culture

Manitou Springs – Quirky mountain town with galleries, shops, and mineral springs
Old Colorado City – Historic district with boutiques, antique shops, and cafes
Downtown Colorado Springs – Coffee shops, breweries, and local restaurants
Olympic Training Center – Free guided tours

Romantic Activities

Sunrise hot air balloon ride – Float over Colorado Springs at dawn
Couples spa day – The Broadmoor Spa
Sunset at Palmer Park – Less crowded overlook with city views
Stargazing – Garden of the Gods at night (park closes at 10pm/9pm in winter)

This place gets a lot of love, which means it needs a lot of care:
✓ Pack out everything you bring in
✓ Stay on established trails
✓ Don’t move or stack rocks
✓ Take only photos, leave only footprints
✓ Keep noise levels reasonable (it’s a public park)
Following Leave No Trace principles helps keep this spot beautiful for everyone.

View Garden of the Gods Wedding & Elopement Packages

Inspiration

Real Garden of the Gods Wedding Photos

Garden of the Gods Elopement Packages

Real Garden of the Gods Elopement Stories

The proof is in the pudding! Check out a few of the real Garden of the Gods weddings & elopements we’ve photographed.

Let Us Plan It For You

Garden of the Gods Elopement Photographers & Planners

Larissa and Bailey, Colorado elopement photographers, standing on rocky outcropping with backpacks and camera gear

Who We Are

We’re two born and raised Coloradoans who have spent our whole lives exploring every corner of this state. Summit County has been a favorite of ours for backpacking, camping, hiking and kayaking.

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 (50+ in the Breckenridge area alone), collectively been to 46 countries, and agree that cracking a local beer around a campfire is the best way to end a day.

Learn About What We Stand For

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:

Adventure Elopement Planning Guide with step-by-step plans, insider tips and resources.
A custom location guide with hidden gems.
Email us anytime, anywhere, about anything.
Recommended, LGBTQ+ affirming elopement vendors.
A custom, stress-free timeline for the elopement of your dreams.
Local knowledge about Colorado’s quirky features (because we’re locals).
A built-in back up photographer you know you can trust (because we’re a team).

Garden of the Gods Elopement Packages

What’s Included

1+ Hours of Photography Coverage With A Garden of The Gods wedding 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, Summit County 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.

Garden of the Gods Elopement Packages

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.

Download Your Free Planning Guide

wedding couple in the mountains on cover of We, The Light Photography's Colorado Elopement Planning Guide and Checklist

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.

2026 Garden of the Gods Elopement & Wedding Guide

Garden of the Gods Wedding FAQs

Start Here To Plan Your Garden of The Gods Wedding

Cost & Permits

Garden Of The Gods Wedding Cost

Garden of the Gods Wedding Permit

Best Ceremony Spots At Garden of the Gods

High Point Overlook

Jacyee Plaza / Chuckwagon Pavilion

Deep Dive Into Your Elopement at Garden of the Gods

Wedding Ceremony Locations at Garden of the Gods

Three Graces Plaza

High Point OVerlook (Our Fave For Small Groups)

Sentinel Plaza

Jacyee Plaza (Our Fave For Large Groups)

Scotsman Picnic Area

South Spring Canyon

Garden of the Gods Elopement Ceremony Location Details

Rules & Regulations for Garden of the Gods Wedding

When To Get Married in Colorado Springs

Best Time Of Year To Get Married in Colorado Springs

🌸 Spring (Apr – May) Our Top Pick!

☀️ Summer (Jun – Aug)

Best Time of Day To Get Married in Colorado Springs

Sunrise Elopement at Garden of the Gods

Sunset Elopement at Garden of the Gods

Planning Tips

Inspiration

Real Garden of the Gods Wedding Photos

Real Garden of the Gods Elopement Stories

Lauren & Ed

Morgan & Jacob

Patricia & Jerry

Let Us Plan It For You

Garden of the Gods Elopement Photographers & Planners

Who We Are

We’re More Than Just Photographers

Garden of the Gods Elopement Packages

What’s Included

Overwhelmed with How To Plan A Colorado Elopement?

Download Our Free Colorado Elopement Planning Guide & Checklist

Are You Freakin’ REady?

Are You Freakin’ REady?

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