20+ Best Colorado Engagement Photo Locations – Updated for 2025

It’s no secret that Colorado is one of the most scenic states in the whole county. This can make it hard to choose the best Colorado engagement photo locations! We have it all here; mountains, glaciers, lakes, desert, red rocks, ski towns, National Parks, and forests. With such a variety of geological options, it makes Colorado one of the best places to take engagement photos. But where should you take yours!?

If you’re like me, too many options can make such a tough decision even harder. I’ve narrowed down my top engagement session locations in Colorado, and they all have their unique perks.

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My Personal Top Colorado Engagement Session Locations;

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1) Lake Dillon/ Dillon Reservoir

Lake Dillon, (which is technically a reservoir), is a great option for couples that want mountains, forests, and a lake. It has it all! It is just over an hour from Denver, but easily accessible. Most people head straight to Sapphire Point. Personally, I’ve never been a huge fan of this spot. It is always crowded and because it is so steep, can be tough to play around. I tend to bring my couples to other spots around the lake! There are so many trails that lead down to the water, or other great views points that show the mountains in the distance. It is a great spot all year round!

Here is a winter engagement session at Lake Dillon.

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2) Chautauqua Park

Boulder is famous for their trademark Flatirons. The flatirons are covered in hiking trails and are well known for their great rock climbing. While this area and it’s trails are beautiful all year round, due to the high foot traffic it can get quite muddy in the spring. Because of the many people that come to the Boulder Flatirons for hiking and climbing (and photography), the OSMP (Open Space Mountain Parks) can be very strict with photography. A $50 photo permit is required to shoot at the Flat Irons, due to it being a popular Colorado engagement photo location, along with all other areas in OSMP.

While many photographers might say it’s overdone, theres a reason why this hot spot is packed with photographers and clients and tourists snapping away. This park is one of the most easily accessible picturesque backgrounds within 30 miles of Denver. You can get those ‘Coloardo mountain views’ without hopping on I-70. There are wildflowers in the spring and summer, and snow capped mountains in the winter. It’s popular for a reason!

Here is an adorable engagement session at the Boulder Flatirons at Chautauqua Park.

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4) Guanella Pass

Probably my favorite go-to mountain location for engagement sessions is Guanella Pass! I find this to be the perfect spot for photos because of all the variations of scenery you can get on one road. I usually have my couples meet me at the road crossing of County Road 62 and 285. From there we head up! There are so many pull offs with rivers, fields, and mountain views. The BEST time to go is definitely in the fall, when the aspen trees are bursting with color. At the very top of the pass you can get a great view of Mt Bierstadt! I also love this area because no photo permit is needed! It is one of my top used Colorado engagement photo locations!

I loved this engagement session up on Guanella Pass!

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4) Paint Mines

One of the most unique locations in Denver would be the Paint Mines! The first time I went, I said- how is this place even real? It seems totally out of place, which is why I love it. The paint mines were made by oxidized iron compounds, with beautiful color bands of red, purple, orange, and white. You are allowed to explore while staying on trails, and the sunset out this way is to die for! There is a hefty photography permit of $100 to shoot at the mines. You can contact the Parks Office for more information at (719) 520-7529.

Here is a fun engagement session at the Paint Mines.

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Engagement Locations near Boulder;

If you’re local to the Denver area, and are looking to stay closer to the city yet still want some “mountain views” withOUT getting on I-70 (which I don’t blame you for), the Boulder might be your best bet! There are some really great scenic locations that don’t require a hike or a long drive. Please note that ALL Boulder locations will require an OSMP photo permit.

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5) Flatirons Vista Trailhead

If you’re looking for a simple and minimalistic photo backdrop, that also happens to be very easy to get to, then I’d highly suggest the Flatirons Vista Trailhead fields in Boulder, Colorado! With rolling hills and views of the Flatirons, this spot is classic. It’s perfect for sunset dreamy colors, and its also very accesible.

To have an engagement session here, a photo permit with the OSMP is required.

Here is a Boulder Flatiron Vista engagement session example.

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6) NCAR

If Chautauqua Park is too crowded for your liking, then finding another alternative viewpoint of the flatirons is a great option! NCAR offers great trails all around the base of the foothills, with usually less crowds. A photo permit from the OSMP is required, and couples must stay on trail at all times.

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7) Lost Gulch

A the top of Flagstaff Mountain in Boulder is a *Very* popular lookout spot called Lost Gulch. While yes, this place is EPIC, there are a few things you should be prepared for and aware of. First being, this place gets CROWDED. It’s a hotspot for Boulder college kids to catch the sunset, and they will post up on the rocks for hours on end. Second being, this place is very rocky, and therefor pretty dangerous. Heels are NOT recommended. I also would stay away from this location in the winter time due to ice and snow. If neither of those things scare you off, this pull off lookout spot is amazing for its closeness to Denver and insane mountain views!

Check out this Lost Gulch engagement session!

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Engagement Locations in Rocky Mountain National Park;

RMNP is a destination where couples from all over the country come to visit and hope to take engagement photos. It’s also a GREAT option for winter mountain views because the park and roadws are still accessible! While Dream Lake is my #1 photo location within the park, it does require a hike. There are many spots within the park that are much more accessible (and still have insane views). Park reservations are required to enter the park, but the recently got rid of their photo permit requirements.

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8) Sprague Lake

A lake that is close in location to Dream Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park is Sprague Lake. The best part about this lake is that is very accessible without any strenuous hiking. There is a parking lot nearby, and a flat ‘grandfathers walk’ that goes around the entire lake. A dock sticks out that faces the same rocky mountain tops that can be found at Dream Lake!

Here is a fun engagement session at Sprague Lake in the summer.

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9) Moraine Park

Another easy spot for photos in RMNP is the drive down to Moraine Park. This valley right in the middle of the park, and a 10 minute drive from the Beaver Meadows Entrance, has insane views of the Rockies. There is also a serpentine river that runs through it. Certain times of the year you will see full herds of elk grazing in the meadow!

Here is a fall time engagement session at Moraine Park.

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10) Dream Lake (Rocky Mountain National Park)

Dream Lake is my favorite lake in RMNP for engagement photos. While Maroon Bells is a bit further than metro Denver than RMNP, this is the next best thing! Dream Lake is a one mile hike from the Bear Lake Parking lot in Rocky Mountain National Park. The hike isn’t too strenuous, but can definitely by a challenge due to the 9,900′ elevation! In winter, ice spikes are HIGHLY recommended. Note that parking at Bear Lake can be very limited, so it is a good idea to give yourself extra time to figure that part out. Also, to take engagement photos in RMNP, there is a $50 photography permit fee. You can request a photo permit on their website.

Here is my favorite winter engagement session at Dream Lake!

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11) Trail Ridge Road

Trail Ridge Road is one of the most wild spots to take couples for engagement photos. The top of this pass goes above 12k elevation! You will for sure be trying to catch your breath while walking around, but the views are 100% worth it. You may see a lot of marmots and the occasional big horn sheep! Note that this road is only open SEASONLY. Here is a site you can find if the road is open or not.

Here is an example of what Trail Ridge Road looks like!

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12) 3M Curve

Kind of a hidden spot that is not labeled on any map, 3M curve is a beautiful spot in Rocky Mountain National Park for easy access and epic views. You’ll have to know where to find it, and where to park. A short walk from your parking spot will open up to some insane vistas of the Rocky Mountains! You might have to rock scramble a bit for some certain shots, but it’s all part of the adventure in the park! You may even see some herds of elk below you on the valley floor.

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Engagement Photo Locations in Downtown Denver;

With the majority of Colorado’s population living in the Denver Metro area, a lot of couples want to have their engagement photos taken close to home! I have a few favorite spots that scream ‘Denver’ that I love.

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13) Byron White Courthouse

If you are looking for sleek and modern and timeless, this option might be best for you! The Byron White Courthouse in downtown Denver has tall marble columns that reflect such beautiful light. Its sleek and sexy and simple! Heads up that it is a popular public space so you might be fighting for the best spot or waiting for random pedestrians to walk by. Photos are not allowed inside the building, but anything around the outside is free game!

Fun fact, you CAN legally elope here, but you will need to make an appointment to do so. How fun!

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14) Downtown Studio Spaces

Denver is full of studio spaces to rent for a sleek and simple background option. A lot of winter engagement sessions might like this option for an indoor location that will be guaranteed to happen no matter the weather! (Nothing worse than having to cancel a photoshoot due to extreme weather). Some studios will have a nice getting ready space, or even some high end furniture or prop options for you. Light can be easily controlled and sometimes having a blank canvas background can lead to some very creative ideas for photos.

Every studio is different, but most do require a 1-2 hour minimum to book. Keep in mind studio fees in additional to your photography coverage when considering a studio space option. One of my favorite studios to shoot in is Realm, which is just on the outskirts of the RiNo arts district. They always have the cutest couches and furniture to use, as well as the larger white cyc wall!

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15) Downtown Denver- RiNo

RiNo, the term given to the area known as River North, sits just north of downtown. The area is known as the arts district and for its colorful graffiti, local breweries, and artist studios. It’s raw and industrial, but SO lively and filled with character. A heads up that while the same rules apply for photographing here as they do at Red Rocks, it is highly advised to give credit to any graffiti artist that you shoot as a background. I also love this area for some cool views of the Denver Skyline!

Here is a funky engagement session in the RiNo area!

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16) Union Station

Union Station is seen as the quintessential “Denver” shot. Built in the late 1800s, Union Station is still used as the main railway station for Denver today! Shooting inside can be tricky due to crowds, but it has a very beautiful 1920s feel! There are also bars and restaurants inside. A few blocks away is the Dairy Block, which has also been an up and coming photography location downtown. With both so close, you can do two spots in one shoot! Both locations do require a photography permit for more than 5 people in attendance.

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17) Parking Decks Downtown Denver

There are some parking garages in the downtown area that have amazing views of the city skyline. This can be a great idea to meet there for some photos of the skyline before heading out and about around town to maybe grab a drink or other fun activities. Please note that it is important to research if you are allowed to take photographs on the top deck of most of these garages. Some garages will have strict restrictions on photography, or may require a permit.

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Engagement Photo Locations in the Foothills of Denver;

Almost all newly engaged couples want a lovely mountain view for their Colorado engagement. The best part is, there are SO many options that aren’t too far from Denver!

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18) Mt Falcon (West)

Just on the other side of the mountain in Morrison where the Red Rocks are, is a lush forest with a beautiful spot for sunset over some beautiful Colorado mountains and is called Mount Falcon. This park is located in Jefferson County, which does require a permit. You can actually get a yearly permit for $100! This park is great because it has a parking lot not too far from some of the best lookout view points. You can keep walking down the trails through some meadows and forested areas as well.

Here is a sunset engagement session at Mt. Falcon West.

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19) Lookout Mountain

Located right on the edge of Golden, Colorado is Lookout Mountain, about a 20-30 mins drive from downtown Denver. Fun fact, at the top of the mountain is actually the grave of Buffalo Bill! The road to the top is a winding one, but along the way are some great pull offs to a few stunning views. The views face down the canyon of Clear Creek and face west, which is perfect for some backlit photos. I do have a favorite spot to shoot on this mountain, but it is a bit of a steep hike to get to. So if you are down to hike up a dirt trail for 10mins to get insane views not too far from Denver, this spot might be perfect for you!

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20) Clear Creek in Golden

The bike path along Clear Creek in Golden is a great year-round option for something easy and beautiful. I’ve seen it shine in the spring with wildflowers, the summer with bright colors, the fall with orange hues, and the winter with icy river banks. There are a few gorges and walkable path ways all up and down the river with easy access.

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21) Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Voted the best outdoor concert venue by Rolling Stone (and like, everyone else in the world), Red Rocks Amphitheater is quite the scene! While the actual amphitheater is beautiful, I love this location for its surrounding trails! There are still beautiful vibrant red rocks to walk around and explore that make a beautiful and unique backdrop. Bonus is that it is only 20 minutes from downtown Denver. There is a photography permit required to shoot here as well, but only if there will be more than 5 people in attendance. Here are the specifics on photography permits at Red Rocks.

Here is an example of an engagement session on the trails at Red Rocks.

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Locations with the BEST mountain views;

Here are a few other ‘last but definitely not least in the slightest’ favorite engagement session location in Colorado.

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22) Maroon Bells

Maroon Bells is noted as the ‘most photographed place in Colorado’. It should be pretty obvious why! The 14er peaks are just a few miles from Aspen, and are beautiful year round. A heads up that the road to Maroon Bells is closed during the winter, and can really only be accessed by renting a snowmobile. In the other months, a reservation is needed to get to the scenic spot due to the crowds! Luckily, no photography permit is needed, *but* the reserving a date and time to enter and park can still be a challenge. If you are feeling adventurous, you can even hike a 3.6 round trip hike to Crater Lake! Maroon Bells is especially beautiful during the fall when the aspens turn bright orange and yellow. It’s not wonder why this is one of the most googled Colorado engagement photo locations!

Check out this Sunrise Engagement session at Maroon Bells!

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23) Sand Dunes

The Great Sand Dunes National Park is probably the most unique national park the Colorado has to offer! It is about a 4 hour drive from Denver, with the nearest town being Salida for a great place to stay the night and grab some dinner. The park is literally a massive sand dune! They have the tallest sand dunes in the country! While your mind thinks you may be at the beach, or in the Sahara, it’s hard to believe you are actually in Colorado and close to the Rocky Mountains. Don’t be fooled- this location is not for the faint of heart. You are still at a very high elevation and need to HIKE about a mile in thick sand to get to some of the more remote dunes. Bring water and snacks!

Please note that there is a steep photo permit for engagement sessions in the park. A lot of Denver based photographers (like myself) may also have a higher sessions fee for this location due to it being a bit further away and fairly remote.

Check out this Great Sand Dunes National Park engagement session!

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24) Loveland Pass

Loveland Pass sits right on the Continental Divide. On one side, water flows to the Pacific, and on the other, to the Atlantic. (I’m a nerd for that sort of stuff, so I think thats pretty cool!) This pass is HIGH. The pass alone sits at 11,990′ elevation! But…you’re going to want go higher. I love hiking up the trail towards Mt. Sniktau. Just above the ridge, there is an insane lookout over the Continental Divide. I personally think this is the BEST sunrise engagement session location in all of Colorado. Just a warning, it can get windy! And COLD! Don’t forget that you will be above 12k elevation, so hike slowly! Loveland Pass does not require a photography permit. I think this is a very underrated Colorado engagement photo location!

Check out this Loveland Pass Engagement Session!

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25) Garden of the Gods

Garden of the Gods has a very similar look to Roxborough. There are pros and cons to this park though. Pro is that it is free to shoot there! And! Dogs are allowed! Con is that this park is insanely popular as a park, but also for Colorado engagement photo location. It is *always* busy with people. Located in Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods has some epic view points like High Point Overlook.

Here is an engagement session with epic views at Garden of the Gods.

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26) Brainard Lake and Isabelle Lake

Brainard Lake recreational are is a showstopper. This area is bustling with Colorado locals in the summertime who come to swim in the lake and have a cookout. It is also home of some amazing backcountry backpacking in the Three Peaks Wilderness. With it’s popularity comes some cons to shooting here. Parking can be a disaster. Sometime they have reservation time slots that you are allowed to enter. You may be waiting over an hour to just park! While there is no photo permit to shoot here, there will be an entrance fee to park. With insane views and pretty lakes, there will be crowds. A lot of couples opt to hike the 3 miles out to Lake Isabelle for less crowds and better views with an icy blue alpine lake. Note that Brainard Lake recreational area closes their main gate in the winter. There is a winter parking lot 3 miles away. So hiking to Lake Isabelle in the winter would be about 13.5 miles round trip, (and snowshoes would be advised).

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