Sprague Lake Elopement in RMNP with Trail Ridge Road Photos

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Airbnb Wedding Photos in Estes Park

This is a real wedding story of K & D, and their Sprague Lake elopement in Rocky Mountain National Park.

The day began at a beautiful Airbnb in the mountain town of Estes Park, Colorado. It was in the early morning hours when I arrived, well before the sun had even come up. They were already awake, excitedly stirring throughout the home while they dressed into their elopement attire. Excitement was high because in just a few hours they would exchange vows, officially starting their next best adventure together.

Bridal bouquet by Lace and Lilies in Fort Collins Colorado

close up of a beautiful wedding flower bouquet

Wedding dress hanging on "mrs." hanger by the fireplace

wedding day details photo of shoes and jewelry

close up of wedding rings with mountains on them

Groom getting ready for his wedding day at Airbnb in Estes Park Colorado

Bride getting ready for her wedding day inside an Airbnb in Estes Park

Trail Ridge Road Wedding Photos

All the way up on top of Trail Ridge Road is where they shared their first look, right at sunrise. The morning light was beautifully soft. Since it was the beginning of June, snow still lingered on the ground. Trail Ridge Road is an incredible spot for photos because the views make you feel like you’re on top of the world! We even saw an elk!

We took our time savoring every viewpoint while wandering trails on top of these epic mountains. One of the best parts about Trail Ridge Road is that you can see so much within a short distance.

Road winding through big snowy mountains

Sunrise view of mountains on Trail Ridge Road

Pink and purple sunrise on Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park

wedding couple walking hand in hand in the snowy mountains

Candid photos of bride and groom in the mountains on their elopement day

Documentary photos of couple laughing and walking on snow in the mountains on their wedding day

Sunrise on Trail Ridge Road with snowy mountains in June

Romantic mountaintop elopement photos in Colorado

Couple snuggling on top of a rocky mountain

elk standing on top of a mountain ridge with snowy mountaintops in the distance

Sprague Lake Wedding Ceremony

Following the high alpine explorations, we drove back down the mountain toward Sprague Lake. It’s the ceremony location they chose for their elopement ceremony.

Sprague Lake is surrounded by lovely pine trees and has panoramic mountain views from the North side of the lake. The 0.8 mile loop around the lake is flat and easy. Plus there are many places to stop and rest along the way before continuing on. Sprague Lake is a favorite spot for elopement ceremonies in Rocky Mountain National Park because of it’s easy access and picturesque views!

K & D enjoyed a private lakeside elopement ceremony at Sprague Lake. Meanwhile, a mother elk with her two young calves splashed around on the far side of the lake.

Yep, these are the kind of wedding crashers you might expect when eloping in Rocky Mountain National Park.

We took our time savoring the last few minutes in the park before moving back to their Airbnb.

wedding couple standing on the shore of Sprague Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park with mountains in the distance

couple eloping on the shore of Sprague Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park with mountains in the distance

bride and groom sharing first kiss at Sprague Lake with mountains and trees in distance

Couple in the forest near mountain Lake spinning and dancing

couple standing on a bridge at Sprague Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park

bride and groom looking through binoculars at mountain lake

elk with calves at sprague Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park

Airbnb Wedding Reception with a Private Chef

They hired Chef Kent who was working diligently at the Airbnb while we adventuring. He made sure every detail was in place for them when they arrived back to the home. He prepared a lovely tea spread for them on the front porch, followed by many delicious courses out back. The menu consisted of a colorful charcuterie spread, red velvet pancakes, locally sourced meats, and even a full wedding cake! When the moment felt right, they had an impromptu first dance in the living room.

Mr & Mrs wedding day mugs in front of a tea spread

Private chef on wedding day catered a beautiful spread of tea and scones in the mid-morning light

Couple sitting on the porch on their elopement day

Couple getting ready for a private chef brunch in Estes Park on the porch of their Airbnb

bride and groom having a first dance in a beautiful modern living room

Couple shares spontaneous first dance in the living room on their wedding day

private chef preparing brunch for wedding couple

Corn and meats on the wedding day brunch spread

Learn more about all the wedding options in this how to elope in Rocky Mountain National Park here, or apply for your wedding permit at the NPS site here.

Meet Your Estes Park Wedding Photographer

Looking for a local Estes Park wedding photographer who can help make your day beautiful, meaningful, and memorable?

Hey, I’m Amber! Not only do I take the photos and help ensure you have a laid-back wedding day, but I can help with the planning process as well. From matching you with the best location(s) to connecting you with amazing vendors to help elevate your day even more, I’m your person.

Think we might be a good fit? Fill out the inquiry form below and let’s start dreaming up your wedding day!