Rocky Mountain National Park is an absolute gem and it’s no surprise that it’s one of the most visited places in the state. With its vast expanse of trails and stunning vistas that can be easily accessed, it’s the perfect spot to pop the question!

As avid visitors of the park ourselves, we want to ensure that your proposal goes off without a hitch. Here are a few recommendations to help you make the most of your Rocky Mountain National Park proposal.

Best Places to Propose in Rocky Mountain National Park

Sprague Lake Proposal

If you’re looking for a proposal spot that’s both accessible and stunningly beautiful, then Sprague Lake is the perfect choice. This beloved spot is easily reached with a short walk from the trailhead and boasts wheelchair-accessible trails, making it a popular destination for hikers and visitors alike.

What sets Sprague Lake apart, however, is its picturesque dock that’s just ideal for popping the question. Imagine getting down on one knee with dramatic views of the majestic mountains and crystal-clear lake in the background – it’s truly a moment you and your partner will cherish forever.

Check out Jamie and Zach’s engagement session at Sprague Lake!

3M Curve Proposal

If you’re a couple that’s into awe-inspiring rock formations and breathtaking mountain views, then 3M Curve should definitely be on your radar. This spot is truly a hidden gem, offering a small rock outcropping with stunning vistas of the meadows below and the iconic Longs Peak – which towers at 14,000 feet – in the background.

What’s more, this scenic location also provides a semi-private and intimate setting that’s just perfect for a proposal. Whether you’re looking for a quiet and peaceful spot to ask the big question, or want a picturesque backdrop for your engagement photos, 3M Curve ticks all the boxes.

Check our Bryson + Marisa’s 3M Curve Proposal for inspiration!

Moraine Park Proposal

Moraine Park is an absolute dream come true for nature lovers. With its expansive meadow, majestic mountain views, and meandering creek, this spot truly has it all. It’s no wonder that it’s also a favorite spot for the park’s resident elk, making it a must-see for wildlife enthusiasts!

But what makes Moraine Park truly special is its romantic and intimate setting – perfect for a proposal. With plenty of privacy to set the stage for your special moment, you’ll be able to bask in the stunning natural beauty of your surroundings and create a memory that you and your partner will cherish forever.

Amye + Harper’s engagement session at Moraine Park is a great example!

Dream Lake Proposal

For couples seeking a romantic proposal spot that combines breathtaking scenery with a moderate hiking challenge, Dream Lake is an absolute dream come true (pun intended!). This 2.2-mile round-trip hike offers stunning views year-round, making it an ideal spot for a proposal that’s sure to take your partner’s breath away.

With just the right balance of hiking adventure and ease, you’ll get your heart pumping without having to hike too far before popping the question. And when you finally reach the tranquil and serene Dream Lake, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and picturesque views, you’ll know you’ve found the perfect place.

But be forewarned – this popular hike is also one of the busiest in the park. To avoid the crowds and ensure privacy for your proposal, it’s best to plan for early morning or late afternoon, and avoid weekends and holidays.

Check out Allison and Ben’s winter engagement session at Dream Lake!

Trail Ridge Road Proposal

For the adventurous couple seeking a proposal spot that’s both exhilarating and breathtakingly beautiful, look no further than Trail Ridge Road. This stunning route is only accessible during the summer and early fall, but the views it offers are absolutely worth the wait.

As you wind your way up the mountain, you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world – and in many ways, you are. At an elevation of around 10,000 feet, the views from Trail Ridge Road are truly awe-inspiring.

But as with any delicate ecosystem, it’s important to tread lightly and stay on the trail when exploring this alpine tundra. By staying on durable surfaces and following all posted guidelines, you can help preserve this fragile ecosystem for generations to come.

Kevin and Emily’s engagement session on Trail Ridge Road is the perfect inspiration!

West Alluvial Fan Proposal

If you’re a couple seeking a more secluded proposal spot with spectacular scenery, West Alluvial Fan might just be the perfect place for you. Tucked away from the busier tourist areas, this hidden gem offers stunning views of a peaceful creek, vibrant aspens, and the picturesque Endovalley.

Unlike other proposal spots in the park, West Alluvial Fan tends to be less crowded, making it an ideal spot for a more intimate and private proposal experience. So if you’re looking for a quiet and romantic spot to pop the question, West Alluvial Fan is definitely worth considering.

Tips for Planning Your Rocky Mountain National Park Proposal

If you’re looking to propose in Rocky Mountain National Park, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind.

Plan to Avoid Crowds

Rocky Mountain National Park gets extremely busy on weekends and holidays. In order to have the most privacy, we strongly recommend planning your proposal on a weekday. If a weekday isn’t an option, sunrise can also be a good option to avoid crowds and enjoy a bit of privacy! The park is typically the busiest from mid-morning through the afternoon. If you’re planning on hiring a photographer, the best time of day for good lighting (and typically the least-busy times of day!) are sunrise and sunset.

Photography Permits are No Longer Required

As of December 2023, photography permits are no longer required for proposals in Rocky Mountain National Park!

Check to See If Timed Entry Is Required

Rocky Mountain National Park has implemented a Timed Entry Permit System during peak season. As of January 2024, reservations are required May 24 through late October 2024. If you are planning to propose at this time, be sure to reserve your slot!

As of January 2024, a 1-day pass is $30 and a 7-day pass is $35. The Fee-Free Days for 2024 are:

• Monday, January 15 — Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
• Saturday, April 20 — First Day of National Park Week
• Wednesday, June 19 — Juneteenth
• Sunday, August 4 — The Great American Outdoors Act
• Saturday, September 28 — National Public Lands Day
• Monday, November 11 — Veterans Day

Since Fee-Free days tend to be incredibly busy in the park, we recommend avoiding them if possible.

Be Prepared for Your Rocky Mountain National Park Proposal

Weather changes rapidly in Rocky Mountain National Park, especially at higher elevations. If you are planning to propose in the park be sure to check the weather forecast beforehand. The weather in Rocky Mountain National Park can be significantly different from other places in the state, such as Denver or Boulder!

During the warmer months, anyone planning to hike should consider bringing layers (including a rain jacket), lots of water, bug spray, sunglasses, a snack, sunscreen, and sturdy footwear at the very minimum. During the winter you will also likely need gloves, a hat/earmuffs, snowshoes or microspikes, and hand/foot warmers.

Give Wildlife Space

There is a high probability that you’ll see wildlife when in the park. Elk, moose, pika, marmots, chipmunks, birds, deer, and foxes are just some of the animals that call the park home and might make an appearance during your proposal! While it is always an incredible experience to see wildlife, it is important to be sure to give the animals lots of space and not to try to feed or touch them.

Leave No Trace

Rocky Mountain National Park is a beautiful place to explore. By practicing Leave No Trace while in the park, we can work to keep it that way for generations to come! The seven principles of Leave No Trace are:

1. Plan Ahead & Prepare
2. Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
4. Leave What You Find
5. Minimize Campfire Impact
6. Respect Wildlife
7. Be Considerate of Others

You can learn more about how you can Leave No Trace here!

Where to Celebrate after Your Rocky Mountain National Park Proposal

After you’re finally engaged, there’s no better way to celebrate than with dinner or drinks! Below are some of our favorite local restaurants and businesses to celebrate at.

Restaurants for a Nice Meal

• Dunraven
• Twin Owls Steakhouse
• Bird and Jim
• Seasoned
• Mama Rose’s

Where to Get a Celebratory Drink

• The Barrel
• Lumpy Ridge Brewing
• Avant Garde Aleworks
• Rock Cut Brewing
• Snowy Peaks Winery
• The Stanley Hotel’s Whiskey Bar

Planning to Propose in Rocky Mountain National Park?