Trail Ridge Road Elopement & Small Wedding Guide
Posted On | March 26, 2025
A Trail Ridge Road elopement in Rocky Mountain National Park offers a unique and stunning setting for your portraits. With breathtaking views, high-altitude landscapes, and an almost otherworldly atmosphere, it’s a memorable place to explore on your wedding day. While the logistics can feel a bit complicated, we’re here to break it down and help you plan your perfect, stress-free day for your Trail Ridge Road wedding!
Trail Ridge Road Elopement Quick Facts
Why Couples Love Trail Ridge Road
Trail Ridge Road offers an unforgettable backdrop of sweeping mountain views, alpine meadows, and rugged landscapes, making it a perfect spot for couples looking to add breathtaking scenery to their wedding day.
CAPACITY
Up to 10 people max
Cost to elope
$35 park entrance fee per car + $300 wedding permit if wanting to get married in Rocky Mountain National Park
Accessibility
Accessibility varies depending on where you go. There are several pull-offs that are handicapped accessible, as well as trails that are more rugged and require more mobility. It is important to properly acclimate before heading up to Trail Ridge Road’s high elevation.
Trail ridge Road Elevation
12,183 feet at its highest point
Where is Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park?
Trail Ridge Road is a scenic highway running through Rocky Mountain National Park, connecting Estes Park to Grand Lake, Colorado. This road is one of the highest paved roads in North America, offering panoramic views of the mountains, valleys, and wildlife in the park.
Can You Get Married on Trail Ridge Road?
Unfortunately, you can’t hold your ceremony on Trail Ridge Road, as the park prohibits any type of ceremony – even if it’s just the two of you – anywhere outside of their designated ceremony sites. However, you can head over to Trail Ridge Road for some stunning wedding portraits before or after your ceremony!
For alternative Trail Ridge Road venues, check out our list of our favorite spots for a Rocky Mountain National Park elopement!
Can You Take Wedding and Elopement Photos on Trail Ridge Road?
Yes! You can definitely take wedding and elopement photos on Trail Ridge Road as long as your ceremony takes place elsewhere. You won’t need a special permit for your photographer either, so you can explore different areas along the road and capture the beauty of your surroundings. Trail Ridge Road offers some truly spectacular spots for photos, so don’t forget to leave some time for that part of the day!
How Much Does it Cost to Get Married in Rocky Mountain National Park?
Aside from the $35 park entrance fee, which is required to enter Rocky Mountain National Park, you’ll also need a $300 wedding permit if you’re getting married at a designated ceremony site within the park. If you’re just taking photos and not holding a ceremony within the park itself, there’s no additional permit required outside of your entrance fee. Keep in mind that if you’re dreaming of a Rocky Mountain elopement, unfortunately you cannot hold your ceremony on Trail Ridge Road.
Do You Need a Time Entry Reservation for a Trail Ridge Road Elopement?
It depends!
From mid-May to mid-October, Rocky Mountain National Park requires a Timed Entry Reservation from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm for areas outside the Bear Lake Corridor, including Trail Ridge Road. If you have a wedding permit, it serves as your entry reservation starting two hours before your ceremony through the rest of the day anywhere in the park (including the Bear Lake Corridor!)
If you’re taking photos at Trail Ridge Road but not getting married in the park, you’ll need to reserve a timed entry spot in advance if visiting between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm. No reservation is required outside of these hours.
If you are hoping to explore a location inside the Bear Lake Corridor (such as Sprague Lake, Bear Lake, or Dream Lake) before or after your ceremony, a Timed Entry+ reservation is required from 5:00 am to 6:00 pm, unless you have a wedding permit.
Timed entry reservations allow visitors to enter RMNP within a two-hour window with no required departure time. Check the park’s website for release times and the latest updates on the reservation system.
What Are the Rules for Exploring Trail Ridge Road?
If you’re planning to explore Trail Ridge Road on your wedding day, remember that the park operates under Leave No Trace Principles. The ecosystem here is extremely fragile, and it can take decades to recover from any damage. Be sure to stay on the trails and avoid disturbing any wildlife. Respect the natural beauty of the area, and leave it just as you found it.
Keep in mind that dogs, drones, and wedding ceremonies are NOT permitted on Trail Ridge Road.
When Is the Best Time of Year for a Trail Ridge Road Elopement?
The best time to visit Trail Ridge Road is during the summer and early fall months, from late June through September. This is when the road is fully open and the weather is more likely to be favorable for your national park wedding. Snow is typically present from mid-October to late June, and the road is closed from mid-October until mid-June due to snow and hazardous conditions.
When Is the Best Time of Day to Take Wedding Pictures on Trail Ridge Road?
If you’re looking for a quieter time to take photos with fewer crowds, sunrise is your best bet. The lighting is soft and beautiful, though it can be quite cold at this early hour, especially at high altitudes. If you’re not a fan of early mornings, sunset also offers incredible lighting. For something even more magical, after dark can be an excellent time to capture photos with the Milky Way, as the limited light pollution in the area creates a perfect canvas for stargazing.
How Long Does it Take to Drive Trail Ridge Road?
Driving Trail Ridge Road typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours without stops. However, if you plan to stop for photos, short hikes, or to take in the scenery, expect the drive to take 3 to 4 hours or more.
Weather and traffic can also impact drive time, especially during peak summer months or if afternoon storms roll in. The road is usually open from late May to mid-October, but always check conditions before heading out, as snow can close it at any time.
How Do You Get Married in Rocky Mountain National Park?
- Choose Your Date – Consider the season and typical weather conditions. Keep in mind that Trail Ridge Road is closed from mid-October until mid-June!
- Apply for Your Wedding Permit at A Designated Ceremony Site– You can apply online, or if you hire us, we can handle the permit application for you! Remember, ceremonies are NOT allowed on Trail Ridge Road.
- 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.
Trail Ridge Road Tips
When planning your Trail Ridge Road micro wedding, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure the day goes smoothly:
Be prepared for changing weather.
The high altitude means conditions can shift quickly, so layering your clothing is essential. If you’re getting married in the summer months, be prepared for possible afternoon thunderstorms, and bring lightweight, waterproof jackets just in case. Keep in mind that temperatures can often be 10 to 20 degrees cooler up on the top of Trail Ridge Road compared to lower elevations in the park!
Have a backup plan.
Since much of Trail Ridge Road is above tree line, lighting can be extremely dangerous. Keep an eye on the forecast and consider having a backup plan in case afternoon thunderstorms are called for. The park is full of incredible spots, so you’ll always have nearby options if needed!
Don’t underestimate the effects of elevation.
Trail Ridge Road goes over two miles above sea level and is one of the highest paved roads in North America. If you’re traveling from a lower altitude, arriving a day or two early, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding alcohol can help prevent altitude sickness.
Consider Trail Ridge Road conditions.
Much of Trail Ridge Road is a paved, curvy two-lane road with steep drop-offs and limited guardrails. While the road is perfectly safe to drive, if you are afraid of heights or are uncomfortable driving on curvy mountain roads, consider letting someone else drive. This video is a great overview of what to expect on your drive!
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
Respect wildlife.
Wildlife is plentiful up on Trail Ridge Road. On any given day you might see deer, elk, moose, pika, marmots, foxes, or even big-horned sheep! Be sure to give them plenty of space, and do not feed them. Always be on the lookout for wildlife crossing the road!
Stay on the trail.
The ecosystem on Trail Ridge Road is extremely fragile and can take decades to recover from damage. Be sure to stay on designated trails and practice the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace to protect this special area for decades to come.
Consider a weekday Trail Ridge Road elopement.
If you’re looking for more privacy, a weekday wedding can help you avoid crowds and give you a more relaxed experience!
Don’t forget sunscreen and bug spray.
The high-altitude sun is strong, even on cloudy days, so sunscreen is a must. In the warmer months, mosquitoes and other bugs can be a nuisance, so pack some bug spray to stay comfortable.
Trail Ridge Road Wedding Pictures
Real Trail Ridge Road Weddings
The Proof Is In The Pudding! Check out a few of the Trail ridge Road Elopements We’ve Photographed
Lydia & Braxton
Kylee & Eric
Caroline & Donnie
Kaitlin & Sara
Trail Ridge Road 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:
Trail Ridge Road Wedding Packages
What’s Included
4+ Hours of Photography Coverage With A Trail ridge Road 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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