Garden of the Gods Elopement Guide (Colorado Springs, 2025-2026)
Plan an effortless, unforgettable elopement among Colorado Springs’ iconic red rocks — with a local photographer who knows the park by heart.
If you’re considering other stunning spots across Colorado, don’t miss my Colorado Elopement Guide where I share my favorite mountain and alpine lake locations beyond Garden of the Gods.
Your Complete Guide to Garden of the Gods Elopements
If you’re dreaming of a red‑rock ceremony with mountain views minutes from town, Garden of the Gods delivers—year‑round. I’m Bobak Radbin, a Colorado Springs elopement & wedding photographer. I’m in the park weekly and built this guide to help you plan a smooth, beautiful day without guesswork or hidden rules.
In this guide you’ll find: where you can hold a ceremony (and guest limits), when to go for the best light and fewest crowds, what to bring (and what’s not allowed), how to use Colorado’s self‑solemnization, dog & accessibility notes, photo‑ready timelines, and local next‑step ideas.
Why Elope in Colorado?
Colorado is a dream destination for couples who crave adventure, intimacy, and awe-inspiring scenery. From majestic peaks to red rock wonders, the state offers a diverse range of backdrops for every type of love story.
Not quite sure what eloping means? No worries—check out this article to get the full scoop! And feel free to reach out anytime—I’m here to help!”
“Wow!! Bobak was an amazing photographer. He cracked jokes and had us laughing the entire hour. He knew great places in the Garden of the Gods to take pictures all in great lighting. The photos turned out perfectly.”
Kristie
Quick Facts
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Park hours: 5:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. (Nov–Apr) • 5:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. (May–Oct)
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Reservations/permits for a ceremony: Not required for small, brief ceremonies at designated sites.
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Cost: $0 for park use (ceremony only). No alcohol, no receptions inside the park.
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Guest limits: 25–50 depending on the site (see list below).
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Dogs: Welcome on leash (6 ft). One off‑leash area just outside the Central Garden.
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Drone use: Prohibited without a special permit; assume no drones.
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Accessibility: Multiple paved/ADA‑friendly paths; details below.
Tip: Weekday sunrise or late‑day light = the best photos + easiest parking. Summer afternoons can bring quick thunderstorms; have layers and a plan B.
Can You Get Married at Garden of the Gods?
Ceremony Locations & Guest Capacities
Choose one of these six official sites. I’ll help you match the light, views, and logistics to your group size and mobility needs.
1) High Point Overlook — up to 50
Big vistas toward Pikes Peak and the Central Garden; gorgeous at sunrise and sunset. Short walk from Parking Lot #9. Wind can pick up.
2) Jaycee Plaza (Chuckwagon Pavilion) — up to 50
Circular stone‑walled plaza with room to gather and a classic red‑rock backdrop. Wheelchair‑friendly surfaces nearby.
3) South Spring Canyon Area — up to 50
Wooded feel with nearby picnic area for a casual post‑ceremony snack (non‑alcoholic). Good shade on bright days.
4) Scotsman Picnic Area — up to 25
Cozy, tree‑lined area close to trails. Works well for intimate groups wanting a quieter pocket.
5) Sentinel Plaza — up to 25
Towering fins and a tucked‑in feel. Paved approaches; watch for foot traffic in peak hours.
6) Three Graces Plaza — up to 25
Dramatic spire backdrop and sculpted walkways. Slightly more walking from parking; less busy than the Central Garden core.
Want to see how Garden of the Gods compares to other epic places in Colorado? Check out my Colorado Elopement Guide for options like Twin Lakes, Rocky Mountain National Park, and beyond.
Insider note: Even if you hold your vows at one site, we can wander to Siamese Twins (beautiful “window” framing Pikes Peak), the Perkins Central Garden Trail for towering formations, or quieter ridgelines for portraits.
When to Elope (Light, Crowds, & Seasons)
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Best time of day: Sunrise (glowing rocks, coolest temps, minimal crowds) or ~2 hours before sunset for warm light and depth in the landscape.
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Spring (Mar–May): Crisp air, emerging greens; variable weather. Layer up. Great for soft light and fewer visitors.
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Summer (Jun–Aug): Long days, lush greens. Expect crowds and possible afternoon thunderstorms—sunrise or evening is best.
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Fall (Sep–Oct): Comfortable temps, golden light, thinner crowds. A favorite for color and clarity.
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Winter (Nov–Feb): Red rock + snow can be spectacular. Cold mornings; bring traction if it’s icy.
Parking, Flow & Summer Shuttle
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Arrive 30–45 minutes early to secure parking and settle in.
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The park’s main loop (Juniper Way) is one‑way; factor that into timing if we change spots.
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In peak season, a free shuttle may run between central stops—handy for small groups. I’ll confirm current operations when we plan.
Self‑Solemnization & Marriage License (Colorado‑Easy)
Colorado allows couples to marry themselves—no officiant or witnesses required. Steps:
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Apply for a marriage license (El Paso County Clerk & Recorder).
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License is valid immediately; must be used within 35 days, then returned within 63 days after solemnization.
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You can self‑solemnize at your ceremony and return the completed license to the Clerk.
Note: The county no longer accepts pet paw prints in the witness section. You may still include your dog in photos and the day’s story—just not on the license.
Dog‑Friendly Elopements
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Dogs are welcome on a 6‑ft leash throughout the park; please pack out waste.
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Off‑leash exercise area is near the main entrance (outside the Central Garden). Great for a pre‑ceremony zoom.
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Summer rock surfaces get hot—plan early/late. Bring water for pups.
Sample 8-Hour Elopement Timeline at Garden of the Gods
Curious about how timelines and coverage work across different packages? My Elopement Investment Page breaks down all my options, from short two-hour sessions to multi-day adventures.
9:00 AM — Getting Ready
Relax and enjoy a slow morning at your Airbnb or cabin. I’ll capture detail shots, anticipation, and candid prep moments.
10:00 AM — First Look & Private Vows
Share an emotional first look at a quiet overlook, followed by private vows surrounded by the red rocks.
11:00 AM — Adventure Portraits
Wander through Garden of the Gods for portraits at iconic spots like Siamese Twins and the Central Garden Trail.
12:30 PM — Ceremony
Say “I do” at one of the six official ceremony sites (High Point Overlook, Jaycee Plaza, etc.), with guests or just the two of you.
1:30 PM — Family Photos & Small Celebration
Capture group photos, followed by a light picnic or champagne toast nearby.
2:30 PM — Scenic Couple’s Session
Head to quieter corners of the park for intimate portraits with dramatic rock formations and mountain views.
4:00 PM — Sunset Portraits
Golden light hits the rocks beautifully—perfect for dreamy couple’s shots.
5:00 PM — Wrap Up
End your adventure with final portraits as the sun sets, closing the day with joy and connection.
Accessibility Notes
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Perkins Central Garden Trail is a 1.5‑mile paved loop with minimal elevation change, excellent for portraits with towering fins.
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The Visitor & Nature Center has ADA features (ramps, elevator, accessible restrooms).
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We can prioritize flatter, paved paths and close parking for mobility‑conscious guests.
What You Can & Can’t Bring
Allowed (within reason):
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A few chairs for elderly/disabled guests
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Small bouquet/boutonniere, vow books, rings
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Layers, flats/boots for walking, water, snacks
Not allowed:
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Arches, tables, tents, aisles, installations, generators
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Confetti, glitter, rice, petals, balloons, releases of any kind
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Alcohol
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Drones (without a special permit)
Always: Stay on trails/rock‑safe areas and leave every spot better than you found it.
Weather & Safety
Altitude: The park sits ~6,400 ft. Hydrate, snack often, and pace your walk.
Summer storms: Plan early/late to avoid heat and lightning; keep a light rain shell handy.
Winter/shoulder seasons: Pack warm layers; consider microspikes if trails are icy.
Wind: Hair ties/pins and a weighted bouquet ribbon help. I bring clear umbrellas when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do we need a permit?
Not for a small, brief ceremony at the six designated sites. Commercial filming/large productions require city permits.
Can we reserve a site or rope off an area?
No—sites are first‑come, first‑served and remain open to all visitors. We’ll keep things nimble and courteous.
How many guests can we invite?
25–50 depending on the site. For 15–20+, consider parking and crowd flow carefully.
Can we bring decorations or an arch?
No arches/tables/installations. Keep décor minimal; the landscape does the heavy lifting.
Can we fly a drone?
Assume no. Drone operations in city parks require special permission; the park follows a strict policy.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes—on a 6‑ft leash. There’s an off‑leash area near the main entrance if you want a pre‑ceremony run.
Is the park accessible?
Yes—Perkins Central Garden is paved and relatively flat. We can keep locations close to parking and choose firm surfaces.
What’s the best time for photos?
Sunrise or the last two hours of light. Weekdays are best to avoid crowds.
Can we self‑solemnize?
Yes—Colorado allows couples to marry themselves. You still need a license from the county and must return it after the ceremony.
“Bobak made our elopement session magical! My husband and I are from out of state, and he helped us every step of the way planning a time and place. He was excellent helping us with posing, photo ideas, and everything in between. He was a great communicator and answered any and all of my questions within great time. I cannot say enough good things about Bobak! He’s an excellent photographer and person! Would recommend to anyone!”
Emma
About Your Photographer
I’m Bobak Radbin, a Colorado elopement & wedding photographer based in Colorado Springs. I craft intentional, down‑to‑earth experiences for couples who love the outdoors—from Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak to Twin Lakes and Independence Pass. I handle the logistics so you can stay present: light, timing,