Sprague Lake Wedding & Elopement Guide
Posted On | March 9, 2025
Eloping at Sprague Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park offers a breathtaking backdrop of mountains, a peaceful alpine lake, and a serene atmosphere perfect for an intimate ceremony. Whether you’re drawn to its accessibility, year-round beauty, or tranquil setting, here’s everything you need to know to plan your perfect Sprague Lake elopement!
Sprague Lake Elopement Facts
Why Couples Love Sprague Lake
Sprague Lake is easily accessible year-round with stunning views of the mountains, as well as a bit more privacy on the dock. It is also one of the few lakeside locations in the park where ceremonies are allowed!
CAPACITY
Up to 15 people in summer (Memorial Day weekend to early October), 30 in winter
Cost to elope
$300 for a wedding permit + $35 park entrance fee per car
Accessibility
Fully accessible, making it a great option for all guests
Distance Around the Lake
0.8 miles around the full lake, but only 0.25 miles to the dock
Restrooms
Vault toilets are available year-round in the parking lot. Flush toilets are available during the summer season.
Where is Sprague Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park?
Sprague Lake is located on the east side of Rocky Mountain National Park, just a short drive from the Beaver Meadows Entrance near Estes Park. The lake features a scenic, wheelchair-accessible loop trail. Although you can hold your ceremony at any spot around Sprague Lake, many couples choose to hold their wedding ceremony at the picturesque dock which tends to be slightly more private.
Sprague Lake Dock Coordinates
How Much Does It Cost to Get Married at Sprague Lake?
A wedding permit for a Sprague Lake elopement 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.
Wedding permits open on the first day of the month one year in advance. For example, if you want to get married on June 15, 2026, you should apply on June 1, 2025. Peak season (May through October) permits are in high demand, so we recommend applying as soon as reservations open. Being flexible with your date, considering a weekday ceremony, or keeping an alternative location in mind can increase your chances of securing a permit!
Do I Need a Timed Entry Reservation for a Sprague 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 Sprague Lake.
- If you have a 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 Sprague 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 Sprague Lake?
Rocky Mountain National Park has guidelines to protect its landscapes while allowing couples to celebrate their special day. If you’re planning a Sprague Lake wedding, be sure to follow these rules:
- Weddings can only take place at designated ceremony sites like Sprague Lake. Even a private vow exchange must be held at an approved location.
- You cannot reserve exclusive use of the site, meaning other visitors may be in the area. However, most people are respectful and give couples space.
- Drones are prohibited anywhere in the park.
- Dogs are not allowed at Sprague Lake.
- Decorations, altars, tables, tents, floral displays, generators, and the scattering of any materials (including rice, confetti, and birdseed) are not permitted. A few chairs are allowed only for guests who cannot stand during the ceremony.
- Group size limits: 15 people in summer (Memorial Day weekend to early October) and 30 people in winter.
- Following the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace is highly encouraged to help keep Sprague Lake pristine for future visitors!
When Is the Best Month to Get Married at Sprague Lake?
A Sprague Lake elopement is stunning year-round, but each season offers something unique:
Spring
March – May
Unpredictable weather with lingering snow, but it’s the least crowded time to visit. Heads up, March is usually the snowiest month!
Summer
Mid-June – Early September
Warm days, lush green landscapes, wildflowers, and long daylight hours. Afternoon thunderstorms are common.
Fall
Mid-September – Early November
Crisp air, vibrant autumn colors, and fewer crowds. Snow is possible starting in early October.
Winter
Mid-November – February
A peaceful, snowy wonderland with dramatic mountain views. The park is less crowded, but temperatures can be frigid.
What Is the Best Time of Day to Elope at Sprague Lake?
The dock at Sprague Lake faces west, making late afternoon or evening the best time for soft, golden lighting. If you’re an early riser, the alpenglow just before sunrise is also breathtaking!
How to Get Married at Sprague Lake
- Choose Your Date – Consider the season and typical weather conditions.
- Apply for Your Sprague 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 – The terrain can be uneven, so choose comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.
- Get Your Marriage License – Pick it up at any Clerk and Recorder’s office in Colorado. Learn more here.
Top Tips for Your Sprague Lake Elopement
A little preparation can make your elopement experience stress-free and enjoyable. Here are some key tips:
Explore more of the park!
Before or after your ceremony at Sprague Lake, consider visiting one or two of our other favorite scenic spots in RMNP. It’s a great way to capture even more stunning photos and experience more of the park’s diverse landscapes. Check out our guide to the best locations to explore!
Be ready for unpredictable weather.
Conditions at Sprague Lake can change quickly—clear mornings often give way to afternoon thunderstorms, especially in the summer. Temperatures can also swing dramatically between day and night. Bring layers, keep an eye on the forecast, and be prepared for whatever the weather may bring.
Give yourself time to adjust to the altitude.
Rocky Mountain National Park sits between 7,500 and 14,000 feet, and Sprague Lake is over 8,600 feet in elevation. If you’re coming from a lower altitude, plan to arrive at least a day or two early to acclimate. Drinking plenty of water, avoiding alcohol, and taking it easy before your ceremony can help prevent altitude sickness.
Bring traction devices for your shoes.
In the winter, snow and ice can make the trails around Lily 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.
Don’t forget sunscreen and bug spray!
The high-altitude sun is strong, even on cloudy days, so sunscreen is essential for any outdoor ceremony or photoshoot. In the warmer months, mosquitoes are common around lakes and meadows, so bringing bug spray will help keep you comfortable.
Check the dates for free admission days.
On select days each year, RMNP waives entrance fees, bringing more visitors into the park. If your wedding falls on one of these days, expect larger crowds 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
Opt for a weekday to avoid crowds.
Sprague Lake is one of the most popular spots in RMNP, making weekends especially busy. Choosing a weekday elopement will give you more privacy, easier parking, and a quieter, more relaxed experience.
Be aware of moose!
Sprague Lake is home to frequent moose sightings. While they’re typically peaceful, always be sure to give them plenty of space and keep a safe distance. It’s important to stay alert as you explore the area, especially if you venture into less-trafficked spots!
Sprague Lake Wedding Photos
Real Sprague Lake Elopements
The Proof Is In The Pudding! Check out a few of the Sprague Lake Weddings We’ve Photographed
Meredith & Pat
Kylee & Eric
Paige & Braden
Lydia & Braxton
Sprague 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:
Sprague Lake Wedding Packages
What’s Included
4+ Hours of Photography Coverage With A SpraGue 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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