A Paddleboard Elopement in Colorado: Lucas & Lizzie

There’s something special about a day that feels both adventurous and deeply personal, and Lucas and Lizzie’s paddlebaord elopement in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado was exactly that.

Getting Ready at Seven Keys Lodge

We started the day at Seven Keys Lodge, where Lucas was getting ready, pulling on a tuxedo that once belonged to his grandfather, paired with a cowboy hat, boots, and a bolo tie that felt just right for the occasion. Lizzie got ready nearby, pinning her grandmother’s diamond brooch to her dress and carrying a bouquet made from flowers her parents lovingly picked. It was clear from the beginning that their families’ presence and support meant the world to them, and they were so thankful their parents could be there to witness the day.

Their first look outside the lodge was quiet and sweet, a moment where all the nerves settled into excitement. Afterward, they sat together on the porch of their cabin, where Lucas pulled out his guitar and sang a song to Lizzie. It was one of those small, powerful moments — full of sentiment, full of intention — that made the day feel even more personal.

A Ceremony With Views

After a short drive into Rocky Mountain National Park, we arrived at 3M Curve, with sweeping views of Longs Peak in the background — a mountain that had become a meaningful symbol in their relationship. Their close friend John officiated the ceremony, and as they exchanged vows and rings, their families rang cowbells to celebrate. Lizzie and Lucas tucked their vow books into a chest, the keys destined for Seven Keys Lodge’s key museum.

After the ceremony, they celebrated with macaroons and sparkling cider. It wasn’t lost on anyone how special it was to share such an intimate day together. From there, Lucas, Lizzie and their family made their way to The Stanley Hotel for a celebratory dinner before returning to their cabin to cut their cake and pop champagne.

A Sunset Paddleboard Elopement

As the evening cooled off, we headed to Lily Lake for a sunset paddleboard. It was the perfect way for Lucas and Lizzie to unwind — laughing, floating, and savoring the beauty around them with Longs Peak still standing proudly in the distance.

After sunset, we stayed a little longer for blue hour photos, using lanterns to light up the night in a quiet, magical way. By the end of the night, the excitement was still buzzing — but we all knew tomorrow held another big adventure: summiting Longs Peak together. Hiking that mountain, just like building their life together, was a challenge they were ready to meet head-on, side-by-side.

Lucas and Lizzie’s elopement day wasn’t rushed or overly planned. It unfolded naturally, giving them space to soak in every moment. They built a day around their love of the outdoors, their connection to family, and their shared sense of adventure. And standing there with them, it was easy to see: this was exactly how it was meant to be.

“Meeting Lucas felt natural and right,” Lizzie had shared with mus before the day, and you could feel that ease between them all day long. Lucas motivates Lizzie to keep climbing, and Lizzie reminds Lucas to stop and enjoy the view. Watching them, you couldn’t help but believe that whatever mountains they face together, they’ll find their way — and have a lot of fun doing it.

Their Estes Park Elopement Vendors

Estes Park Elopement Photographer | We, The Light Photography

Hair Stylist | Joshua Sadler

Makeup | Beauty By Liz

Wedding Dress | Timeless Gowns

Cake | Mystic Moon Bakery

Need a Estes Park Elopement Photographer?

Meet Larissa + Bailey! As two born and raised Coloradans who have photographed 250+ couples in 100+ locations across Colorado, we specialize in creating a different kind of wedding day that is just as adventurous as you are. We use our experience and knowledge to craft a different kind of wedding day that feels completely authentic to you. Want to hike to a high alpine lake? We can give you trail options for that! Want to canoe along the banks of a mountain lake? We can tell you the best lakes to do it on! Want to watch the sunset from the top of the world? We’ll lead you to our favorite spots for sunset! Book your Estes Park elopement photographer today!