3M Curve Wedding & Elopement Guide: Getting Married in RMNP

3M Curve in Rocky Mountain National Park is an incredibly picturesque wedding ceremony location. Whether it’s just the two of you or you’re bringing along your closest people, you’re going to LOVE it here.

As an Estes Park local (and a wedding photographer who’s a little obsessed with this place), I’m here to walk you through everything you need to know about having a wedding ceremony at 3M Curve.

Let’s get into it.

3M Curve at a Glance

Imagine standing on a rocky overlook, meadows and mountains stretching endlessly behind you, the golden light hitting just right. It’s intimate, it’s wild, and it’s one of the most picturesque wedding spots in Rocky Mountain National Park. Here’s why couples love it:

• Available Year-Round – 3M Curve is accessible and available for weekends in every season!
• Close to Estes Park – No long hikes or commutes necessary! Once inside the park at the Beaver Meadows Entrance Station, it’s only about a 6 minute drive to this spot. It’s about a 10 minute drive from the Fall River Entrance Station.
• Epic Views Without the Crowds – While still one of the more popular ceremony sites in the park, it’s usually a little more low-key than sites like Bear Lake or Sprague Lake. This is especially true for sunrise or weekday weddings.
• No People in the Background – Unlike other ceremony sites like Sprague Lake, Lily Lake, and Bear Lake, it’s very unlikely people are going to be down below the ceremony spot here since there are no hiking trails there!
• Easy Access for Guests – If you’re inviting family and friends, this location doesn’t require a major trek! It’s just a short walk from the parking area to the ceremony site.
• Perfectly Sized for Intimate Weddings & Elopements– You can host up to 15 people total, including your vendors and the couple. You’re also allowed 3 vehicles to park in the designated lot, making it a great option for small, intimate gatherings.

How to Get to 3M Curve in RMNP

3M Curve is not labeled with any signage, but it is a rather large pull-off beside a large rock outcropping. It’s located between the entrance to Upper Beaver Meadows and Deer Mountain Trailhead. Once you’ve parked, take one of the dirt trails on either side of the large rock and you can’t miss the ceremony site!

GPS Coordinates for Parking Lot: 40.38059276260519, -105.60345292987546

GPS Coordinates for 3M Ceremony Site: 40.38005465965477, -105.60267985435695

The Wedding Permit Process (Yes, You Definitely Need One!)

Since 3M Curve is within Rocky Mountain National Park, you’ll need a wedding permit to hold your ceremony here. The park only allows a limited number of permits each year. They book up fast, so applying early is key!

Wedding Permit Cost: $300
When to Apply: Up to one year in advance from your desired wedding month. For example, if you want to get married on November 11, 2026, you can apply on November 1, 2025.
Where to Apply: Through Rocky Mountain National Park’s official website

Your permit reserves the ceremony site, but it doesn’t grant exclusive use of the area. That said, most people are respectful when they see a wedding happening!

Learn more about getting married in Rocky Mountain National Park here.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re flexible with your date, consider a weekday wedding to avoid crowds. This will also increase your chances of securing a permit.

Nearby Wedding Photo Locations

If you want to explore a bit before or after your ceremony for stunning wedding portraits, you’re in luck! Some of my favorite nearby spots include:

• Endovalley & Alluvial – Great spot for streams, meadows, aspen groves, and wildlife
• Upper Beaver Meadows – The wide open meadows just below 3M Curve. Also a great wedding ceremony site!
• Trail Ridge Road – A bit of a drive up to the top, but SO worth it
• Fall River Road – take this dirt road up to the top and come back down on Trail Ridge Road for a big tour of the park!)
• Deer Mountain – A great summit hike that’s about 6 miles roundtrip. The trailhead is located about a 30 second drive from 3M Curve. Heck, you could just walk there.

If you’re up for a little extra adventure or want more incredible hiking options, head up to the Bear Lake Corridor in the National Park.

💡 Pro Tip: Since you’re already inside RMNP with your wedding permit, you won’t need an additional photography permit for portraits in these locations!

Things to Keep in Mind

• No arches, chairs, or decorations – The park has strict rules to preserve its natural beauty. Keep things simple and let the scenery do the talking.
• Leave No Trace – Pack out everything you bring in, and be mindful of the delicate landscape. And please, no flower petals or biodegradable confetti either!
• Weather Can Change Fast – The mountains are unpredictable! Bring layers, and be ready for anything from sun to sudden snow. Because, well, it happens.
• Sunrise & Sunset Are Pure Magic – If you want the most dreamy lighting, consider an early morning or golden hour ceremony.

3M Curve Wedding & Elopement Photos

Here are some more posts that include wedding photos at 3M Curve that I think you might enjoy.

• Summer wedding portraits at 3M Curve
• Fall intimate wedding ceremony at 3M Curve

Your 3M Curve Wedding Photographer