Engagement Photos at Lily Lake | Rocky Mountain National Park

Lily Lake is one of my favorite spots for engagement photos (and proposals too!) in Rocky Mountain National Park. It’s easily accessible, yet you still get those big mountain views, sparkling (and sometimes frozen) water, and a mix of pine forests and aspen groves.

The best part? It’s outside the main entrance stations of RMNP so you don’t have to wait in a line to wander around here! Plus, it’s less than a 10-minute drive from downtown Estes Park, which makes it the perfect spot for couples who want gorgeous photos and a fun evening out afterward.

There’s a flat trail that loops around the lake, a dock right by the parking lot, and ridge hikes nearby if you want something with more of a mountain overlook. Lily Lake even has three wedding ceremony sites! If you’re thinking ahead to tying the knot here, check out this Lily Lake Wedding Guide.

Why Choose Lily Lake for Engagement Photos

If you’re looking for a location that packs a lot into one spot, Lily Lake is it. You’ve got:

• Scenic variety: mountain views, water, forests, and more!
• Easy access: no long hikes required, which means you can dress up and still look fresh
• Crowd-friendly options: walk the loop for a laid-back session or head up the ridge for more privacy
• Seasonal beauty: golden aspens in the fall, snow-dusted peaks in winter, and even some wildflowers in the summer

For this couple, the moody skies on their session day made the whole place feel extra magical. Colorado is known for sunshine, but when those clouds roll in, it adds so much drama and romance to the photos.

Tips for Engagement Photos at Lily Lake

1. Be prepared for Colorado weather.

The mountains love to keep us on our toes! Bring layers since the temps can shift quickly, even in summer. A light jacket, scarf, or blanket not only keeps you comfortable but also looks cute in photos.

2. Pack water + snacks.

Even though Lily Lake has a flat loop, the elevation here is nearly 9,000 feet. A quick snack or sip of water makes a huge difference, especially if you’re not used to the altitude.

3. Time your session with the light.

Sunrise and sunset are dreamy here, with soft light reflecting off the water and mountains. Sunrise and early morning photo sessions tend to be less busy. Weekdays too!

4. Expect crowds (but don’t worry!).

Lily Lake is popular location (for good reason). Don’t stress if the main parking lot is full, there’s overflow parking across the street. Plus, I know all of the tucked-away corners where we can find privacy for photos.

5. Make it your own.

Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy, moody session, a golden light glow, or even including a short hike up the ridges nearby, there’s so much variety to play with! Consider bringing things to your session that you and your partner enjoy or represent you! Think games, favorite picnic food, or love letters to read during your session to make it even more unique and memorable.

More Rocky Mountain National Park Engagement Photo Locations

Looking for more inspiration on other engagement photo locations? Estes Park has no shortage of mountain and lake views. Find your spot in this Guide to Engagement Photos in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Meet Your Estes Park Engagement Photographer

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