Grand Lake Elopement with Horseback Riding, Hiking, and Pizza
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If you’re looking for a Colorado wedding spot that feels peaceful, charming, and incredibly picturesque, Grand Lake might just be the elopement destination for you.
Tucked on the west side of Rocky Mountain National Park, the quieter side, Grand Lake is surrounded by epic mountain views and (you guessed it) lakes. It has a little bit of Western flair too, which makes it all the more fun.
And fun fact? This is actually where my husband and I got married, so you know it’s good.
Today I’m sharing photos from a real September elopement in and around Grand Lake. This day included getting ready and a first look at a cozy Airbnb, a short hike with amazing views for their ceremony, a pizza and beer pit stop to sign the marriage license, and some horseback riding to wrap it all up.
It was such an incredible day. One that felt like a true representation of S & J’s life together because they infused all the things they love.
Grand Lake Cabin Getting Ready Photos
Pro tip, anyone? Book aesthetically pleasing lodging for your elopement day!
Natural light, thoughtful decor, and great views will certainly make all the difference. This Grand Lake Airbnb was so cute and absolutely perfect for wedding photos. We even found the perfect wooded spot along the driveway for an easy-to-arrange first look!
Wedding Ceremony Hike
You know what we love around here? A really long wedding aisle. Or even just a 1 mile long aisle, like this one.
That’s right. This lovely ceremony spot is just one mile into the trail! I think it’s safe to say that no on else has ever stood in this exact spot to marry their person. How cool is that?
Elopement Day Pizza & Beer, Anyone?
I can’t think of a better way to sign your marriage license than over pizza and beer at a local spot. Shout out to Alchemy Pizza in Winter Park. That pineapple and jalapeño pizza is going to haunt my dreams in the best way.
There’s something so special about calling your own shots on your wedding day. If a spontaneous pit stop at a local pizzeria speaks to you, just do it.
Elopement Day Horseback Riding
After pizza, it was time to go back to Grand Lake to meet up with some horses! S & J booked a private horseback ride through Thunder Horse Outfitters! They rode horses along the lakeshore like naturals, while dreaming of someday owning their own horses.
The evening light made everything a little more magical. And the dress draped over the horse? I mean, come on!
Horseback riding is a great way to create core memories on your wedding day, all while capturing storytelling images. For couples thinking about it, make sure you book a private ride and let you guide know you’ll be doing photos! In my experience, they’re extremely accommodating and will take you to all the most scenic locations.
And if horseback riding isn’t your thing, check out more Elopement Activity Ideas here!
Colorado Wedding Vendor Shoutout
Photographer: Story Maker Photo
Hair & Makeup: Cate Hair & Makeup
Florals: Jellycat (how unique!!)
Horseback Riding Outfitter: Thunder Horse Outfitters (shout out to Travis)
Rings: Brilliant Earth
Meet Your Grand Lake Elopement Photographer
Hey, I’m Amber!
I’m a Colorado-based elopement and intimate wedding photographer who’s all about capturing your day in a way that feels laid-back, fun, and so you.
Beyond being there to beautifully photograph your day, I’m also here to make the entire process exciting and stress-free—helping you plan, explore incredible locations, activities, and to help feel completely at ease every step of the way.
Think we might be a good fit? Then fill out the inquiry form below to get started!
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