Rocky Mountain National Park is filled with natural beauty, making it a stunning location for engagement pictures. Here’s what you need to know!

Rocky Mountain National Park Engagement Photos

Right from the start, I could tell this would be a fun and meaningful session. When they filled out my inquiry form, they expressed how important it was for them to capture authentic memories and moments – something that I could completely relate to. During their visit to Colorado, they were staying in Estes Park and they wanted to make the most of the stunning natural beauty here by having an engagement session at Rocky Mountain National Park.

We decided to hike up to Dream Lake for their shoot, and the scenery could not have been more breathtaking. Along the way, we even spotted some elk! As we arrived at the location, it started rumbling with thunder. But instead of calling it quits, I asked if they were okay with potentially getting wet on the hike back. Without hesitation, they said yes! Emily and Evan were truly up for anything and fully embraced the adventure. We spent about thirty magical minutes capturing their love against one of the most stunning backdrops.

Afterwards, we made our way down in the pouring rain and headed to Moraine Park, another gorgeous spot in the park. Despite the weather, we had such a blast! Emily and Evan are the type of couple you instantly connect with – down-to-earth, easy-going, and always up for a good time. If they lived closer, I have no doubt we’d be friends! I’m so grateful they fully embraced the weather that day and trusted me to capture these beautiful memories.

Where to take Rocky Mountain National Park Pictures

Rocky Mountain National Park is filled with countless stunning locations, making it a dream for amazing photos. For Emily and Evan’s session, we explored Dream Lake and Moraine Park – two of my absolute favorite spots.

Dream Lake

Dream Lake is a gem, nestled high in the mountains. The hike itself is part of the adventure, with breathtaking views around every corner. Once you arrive, the lake reflects the surrounding peaks and trees in an almost surreal way, making it the perfect backdrop for a romantic session.

Moraine Park

Moraine Park, on the other hand, offers vast open meadows with towering mountain views in the distance. It’s a great spot for capturing a more expansive, wide-open feel in your photos, and if you’re lucky like us, you might even spot some wildlife like elk or deer wandering through the fields.

Sprague Lake

Sprague Lake is a beautiful and easy option within Rocky Mountain National Park for photos, because there is a parking lot right by the lake. The perimeter of the lake is probably about a mile long, and very flat and with a paved surface. There is a walking path, a bridge that is a fun spot for photos, and plenty of areas along the water to stop at. This is a location that can attract more crowds, so consider this before planning your season!

Hidden Valley

Hidden Valley really is a hidden gem of locations. The area sees very few visitors compared to to other sites in RMNP, and is quietly tucked away in the woods at the bottom of Trail Ridge Road. Although it doesn’t have big sweeping mountain views, it has privacy, moody forest vibes, wildflowers, and a high chance of seeing moose!

Trail Ridge Road

Trail Ridge Road is a stunning location that really captures the natural beauty of the park. When you’re driving to the top, you can typically find plenty of stops along the way, each of them equally breathtaking. 

When to Take Engagement Photos at Rocky Mountain National Park

One of the best things about Rocky Mountain National Park is how it transforms with the seasons, each offering a different kind of magic for breathtaking photos.

Spring

Spring is a beautiful time for sessions, with wildflowers starting to bloom and snow still lingering on the higher peaks. The park is quieter, and the colors are vibrant as nature begins to wake up after winter.

Summer

Summer is peak season, with the trails fully open and accessible. You’ll find lush greenery and bright, sunny skies. It is an ideal time for couples who want to explore the park’s trails and lakes.

Fall

Fall is absolutely stunning here. The golden hues of the aspen trees, combined with the cooler, crisp air, make for a picturesque setting. If you time it right, you can catch the elk rut, which can add a unique touch to your photos.

Winter

Winter is perfect for people who want a snow-covered wonderland. The park turns into a winter dream, with icy lakes and snow-draped pines. While some areas may be less accessible due to snow, places like Bear Lake are still reachable, offering that perfect snowy backdrop.

What to Wear for Engagement Photos at Rocky Mountain National Park

Choosing the right outfit for your engagement session in Rocky Mountain National Park is key, not only for comfort but also to complement the natural beauty around you. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Layer up

Even in the warmer months, temperatures can drop, especially as you gain elevation. Bringing layers is a must! A jacket or cozy sweater can keep you warm and also add texture to your photos.

Choose the right shoes

Since many locations in Rocky Mountain National Park involve hiking, I always recommend wearing comfortable shoes or boots for the trek. You can switch into shoes once we arrive at our location if you’d like, but comfort is key for getting there.

Choose neutral tones

Neutral tones like creams, tans, and greys, as well as earthy colors like olive green or burnt orange blend beautifully with the park’s natural surroundings. These tones help you stand out against the mountain landscapes without being too distracting.

Flowy dresses or skirts

For those looking to add a bit of elegance, flowy dresses or skirts can look stunning in photos, especially with the wind adding some movement. Just keep in mind the terrain – if we’re hiking, you’ll want something that allows you to move comfortably.

Guys can keep it simple

For the guys, a classic and rugged look always works well. Boots, jeans, a hat, and a button-up shirt are perfect for a laid-back, natural vibe. If you want to dress it up a little more, consider adding a blazer or vest to elevate the look while still fitting into the background setting.

Colorado Wedding Photographer

Hi, I’m Lo, a Colorado-based destination wedding photographer! I am always ready to create a custom experience for my couples and leave you with photos as timeless as your love. So if you’re looking for someone to help you plan your Colorado engagement session + tell your love story, I’d love to chat!