Upper Beaver Meadows Wedding Guide in Rocky Mountain National Park

Upper Beaver Meadows is an incredibly scenic wedding ceremony location in Rocky Mountain National Park, and is the perfect place to get married because:

  • It’s a large area so there is plenty of space to spread out.
  • You will see beautiful forest, meadow and mountain views (including 14er, Longs Peak).
  • There is a picnic area with restrooms.
  • It’s just a short drive from both the Beaver Meadows Entrance Station and Fall River Entrance Station.
  • There are nearby hiking trails, including some right out of the meadow.
  • It’s a popular spot to spot wildlife! Especially elk.
  • It only costs $300 for a wedding permit here.
Picnic site view from Upper Beaver Meadow

How to apply for an Upper Beaver Meadows wedding permit

Each year a limited number of wedding permits are available through Rocky Mountain National Park. It’s important that you apply for your permit as soon as possible.

Apply for a wedding permit up to one year in advance from your desired wedding month.

For example: if you would like to marry on June 15, 2025, apply for your permit on June 1, 2024.

Upper Beaver Meadows is accessible by vehicle between mid-May and mid-October. There is a road closure during the winter months, and must be accessed by foot during that time. This wedding site can accommodate up to 30 guests (including the couple and any vendors), and up to 10 vehicles.

When you’re ready to apply for your Upper Beaver Meadows wedding permit, here’s what to do:

  1. Check the website to make sure there is still availability for your desired month
  2. If so, download a Special Use Application
  3. Email your completed application to romo_fees_permits@nps.gov
  4. Once approved, they will send a Special Use permit to you with instructions for signing and payment.
  5. Make sure you have the approved permit with you on your wedding day!

Find out more information and apply for your wedding permit here.

Couple shares a first look on their wedding day in RMNP
Romantic couples portraits in Upper Beaver Meadow

Love a first look moment in the meadow!

Getting to Upper Beaver Meadows in Rocky Mountain National Park

Upper Beaver Meadows is accessible by the Fall River Entrance Station or Beaver Meadows Entrance Station. It’s conveniently just a few minutes drive from both locations!

Upper Beaver Meadows wedding ceremony in Rocky Mountain National Park

Best time of year for an Upper Beaver Meadows wedding

With the road to Upper Beaver Meadows being closed during the winter months (typically mid-October through mid-May), the best time to get married here is during the late spring, summer, or early fall.

Every month here is certainly beautiful in its own way, it just depends on the scenery + vibe you’re looking for!

Photos of Upper Beaver Meadows in the summer

Picture lush green meadows, wildflowers, and lingering snow on the high mountain peaks.

Intimate wedding ceremony where bride is hugging her father in a mountain meadow
Intimate wedding ceremony in Rocky Mountain National Park
Dirt path on the way to Upper Beaver Meadows ceremony site in RMNP
Bride and father of the bride walking up to ceremony in RMNP
Intimate wedding ceremony in Upper Beaver Meadows in June

Photos of Upper Beaver Meadows in the fall

Picture tall golden grass and warm hues against the blue mountains in the distance.

View of snowy Longs Peak from Upper Beaver Meadow in RMNP

View of Longs Peak, covered in snow during October

View of Upper Beaver Meadow and Longs Peak in October in RMNP
RMNP wedding ceremony during the fall at Upper Beaver Meadow

Upper Beaver Meadows wedding photography

Here are some real intimate weddings and elopements at this wedding ceremony site for inspiration!

How to get married in Rocky Mountain National Park

Learn even more about all the wedding ceremony site options in this how to elope in Rocky Mountain National Park guide, and find more information on permits as well as updated availability at the NPS site here.

Upper Beaver Meadow wedding ceremony in August

Rocky Mountain National Park wedding photographer

Interested in having your own Upper Beaver Meadows wedding or elopement ceremony? As a local Estes Park photographer, I can help make it a little less intimidating, and show you all of my favorite spots in the National Park for the best photos.

Schedule a discovery call now and let’s meet!

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