Garden of the Gods Elopement Guide
Planning a Garden of the Gods elopement? This guide covers everything you need to know, from ceremony locations and permits to park rules, seasonal tips, and sample timelines.
Whether you're planning an intimate ceremony or a small celebration with family, I'll help you navigate the details and make the most of your day in one of Colorado's most beautiful locations.
What This Garden of the Gods Elopement Guide Covers
This guide is designed to help you find the information you need while planning your Garden of the Gods elopement. Explore the topics below, from ceremony locations and park regulations to photography timelines, seasonal advice, and frequently asked questions.
Can You Get Married at Garden of the Gods?
Yes! Garden of the Gods allows small, brief wedding and elopement ceremonies at six designated locations throughout the park. These locations are free to use and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are not available, and all ceremonies must follow the park's guest limits and guidelines.
Couples do not need a ceremony permit to get married at Garden of the Gods. However, the park remains open to the public, so you cannot reserve a private space or prevent other visitors from using the area. Decorations, arches, tents, amplified sound, and alcohol are not allowed.
Planning your ceremony can be easier with someone who knows the park. As a local Colorado elopement photographer, I help couples choose locations, plan around lighting and crowds, and create a relaxed timeline for their day.
“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
Garden of the Gods Elopement Rules & Restrictions
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Wedding ceremonies must be small, brief, and respectful of other park visitors.
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Ceremony locations are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are not available.
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Alcoholic beverages are prohibited throughout the park.
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No arches, trellises, tables, tents, or decorations are allowed.
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No throwing rice or confetti, or releasing balloons, birds, or butterflies.
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Chairs are permitted only for elderly or disabled guests.
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Stay on established trails and avoid disturbing vegetation.
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Do not block off ceremony areas or parking spaces.
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Drone use is prohibited in Garden of the Gods.
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Receptions are not allowed, except for picnics at the designated Scotsman and South Spring Canyon picnic areas.
Following these guidelines helps protect the park's natural beauty and ensures everyone can enjoy this special place.
Garden of the Gods Ceremony Locations & Guest Limits
Parking, Crowds, and Logistics
Parking and Getting Around
Garden of the Gods is free to visit, and parking is available throughout the park. However, parking can become limited during summer weekends, holidays, and other busy periods. The Visitor & Nature Center parking lot has fewer than 200 spaces and can fill up during peak hours.
There are several parking areas throughout the park, including the Main Parking Lot near the Central Garden, High Point Overlook, Scotsman Picnic Area, South Spring Canyon, and Balanced Rock. Choose your parking area based on your ceremony location rather than assuming you'll be able to park near every photo spot.
I recommend arriving at least 30–45 minutes before your scheduled ceremony. This gives you time to find parking, meet your guests, walk to the ceremony location, and settle in without feeling rushed.
Traffic and One-Way Roads
Garden of the Gods has a one-way road system through much of the park. Allow extra time if you're driving between ceremony locations or planning portraits at multiple spots. During busy periods, traffic can move slowly, and parking areas may fill quickly.
If you're planning to visit more than one location, build some flexibility into your timeline. I help couples plan their photography locations and route so they can spend more time enjoying the experience and less time moving between stops.
Best Times to Avoid Crowds
Garden of the Gods is one of Colorado Springs' most popular attractions, so you'll likely encounter other visitors, especially during summer weekends, holidays, and midday hours.
For a more relaxed experience, I generally recommend considering a weekday sunrise session. Early mornings often offer a quieter atmosphere, softer light, and more flexibility for portraits. Sunset can also be beautiful, although popular areas may still have visitors.
Keep in mind that no ceremony location is private or reserved. Other visitors may be present during your ceremony, even when you've planned ahead.
Planning for Your Guests
If you're inviting family and friends, share the ceremony location and parking information with everyone ahead of time. Don't assume all guests will arrive together or know their way around the park.
I recommend:
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Sharing the exact ceremony location and a map with your guests before the day.
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Encouraging guests to arrive early and allow extra time for parking.
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Carpooling when possible, especially for larger groups.
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Considering walking distances and accessibility when choosing your ceremony location.
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Having a backup plan in case your preferred location is busy.
Remember that parking spaces and ceremony areas cannot be reserved or blocked off for your group.
Is There a Shuttle at Garden of the Gods?
A free seasonal shuttle operates during selected busy periods, connecting the Visitor & Nature Center, overflow parking, Rock Ledge Ranch, and a stop near the Central Garden. However, the shuttle does not operate year-round, and its schedule changes.
I recommend checking the official Garden of the Gods shuttle schedule before your visit rather than planning your ceremony around shuttle availability. For wedding guests, driving and parking near your designated ceremony location is generally the more straightforward option.
For current parking information and park maps, visit the official Garden of the Gods directions and parking page.
Best Time to Elope at Garden of the Gods
Best Time of Day
Sunrise is one of the best times for a Garden of the Gods elopement. The park is generally quieter, temperatures are cooler, and the soft morning light creates beautiful conditions for ceremonies and portraits. It's especially worth considering during the busy summer months.
Late afternoon and the hours leading up to sunset offer another beautiful option. The warm light brings out the rich colors and textures of the red rock formations, creating a dramatic backdrop for your ceremony and photos. Keep in mind that popular areas can still be busy, particularly during weekends and peak tourist season.
Seasonal Breakdown
Spring (March–May): Spring brings cooler temperatures, changing weather, and fewer visitors than the peak summer months. Snow and sudden temperature changes are still possible, so dress in layers and stay flexible with your plans.
Summer (June–August): Long daylight hours and warm temperatures make summer a popular time for elopements. Expect more visitors, especially on weekends, along with the possibility of afternoon thunderstorms. Sunrise and evening ceremonies are usually the best options.
Fall (September–October): Fall is one of my favorite seasons for Garden of the Gods elopements. Comfortable daytime temperatures, cooler mornings, beautiful golden light, and generally fewer crowds make this a wonderful time to visit. Weather can still change quickly, so bring layers.
Winter (November–February): Snow-dusted red rocks create a beautiful winter backdrop, and the park is generally quieter. Be prepared for cold temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and potentially icy trails and walkways. Sunrise can be especially cold, so plan accordingly.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
No matter which season you choose, Garden of the Gods is a popular public park. Weekdays and early mornings generally offer a quieter experience, but you should always expect to share the park with other visitors.
As a local photographer, I help couples choose the best time and location based on lighting, seasonal conditions, group size, and the overall experience they're hoping for. A little planning goes a long way toward making your day feel relaxed.
Choosing the Best Season for Your Garden of the Gods Elopement
Garden of the Gods looks and feels different throughout the year. From snow-covered red rocks in winter to warm summer evenings and colorful fall scenery, every season offers a different experience.
Choosing when to elope involves more than just scenery. Weather, temperatures, crowd levels, daylight, and lighting can all influence your ceremony and photography experience.
I've put together seasonal guides featuring real Garden of the Gods elopements to help you see what each time of year is actually like. Explore the guides below to get a better feel for the scenery, conditions, and possibilities for your own day.
Garden of the Gods Spring Elopement Guide
Discover what to expect from spring weather, changing conditions, and the park as it transitions out of winter.
Garden of the Gods Summer Elopement Guide
Explore long summer days, warm evening light, popular locations, and ways to plan around peak-season crowds.
Garden of the Gods Fall Elopement Guide
See the beautiful fall colors, golden light, and cooler temperatures that make autumn a favorite season for many couples.
Garden of the Gods Winter Elopement Guide
Explore snow-dusted red rocks, quieter surroundings, and what to consider when planning a cold-weather elopement.
Colorado Marriage License & Self-Solemnization
One of the best things about getting married in Colorado is that you don't need an officiant or witnesses to make your marriage official. Colorado allows couples to self-solemnize, meaning you can legally perform your own marriage ceremony and sign your marriage license together.
Whether you're planning an intimate elopement at Garden of the Gods or somewhere else in the Colorado mountains, the process is relatively straightforward.
What Is Self-Solemnization?
Self-solemnization means you and your partner can legally officiate your own wedding ceremony. You don't need to hire an officiant, have a judge perform the ceremony, or ask friends and family to serve as witnesses.
You can exchange vows, share rings, and celebrate your marriage in whatever way feels meaningful to you. Once you've completed the required information and signatures on your marriage license, you'll return it to the county clerk and recorder for recording.
Colorado law specifically allows couples to solemnize their own marriage.
How to Get a Marriage License in El Paso County
If you're getting married in Colorado Springs or Garden of the Gods, here's how to obtain your marriage license through the El Paso County Clerk and Recorder.
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Complete the online application. Both applicants must complete the online marriage application before visiting the office.
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Visit the Clerk and Recorder's Office. At least one applicant must appear in person. Both parties need valid identification.
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Pay the license fee. The current marriage license fee is $30.
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Receive your marriage license. Your license is valid immediately upon issuance and must be used within 35 days.
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Get married and complete the license. After your ceremony, make sure the required information and signatures are completed.
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Return your completed license. The completed marriage license must be returned to the El Paso County Clerk and Recorder within 63 days after your ceremony.
El Paso County Clerk and Recorder
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Address: 1675 W. Garden of the Gods Road, Colorado Springs, CO
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License fee: $30
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Validity: 35 days from issuance
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Return deadline: Within 63 days after the ceremony
You can find current instructions and start your application through the official El Paso County Marriage License page.
Can You Get Married Without Witnesses?
Yes! Colorado does not require witnesses for a marriage to be legally valid. You and your partner can exchange vows privately, sign your marriage license, and make it official without anyone else present.
Of course, you're welcome to invite family and friends to witness your ceremony if that's what you want. But there's no legal requirement to have them there.
Can Your Dog Be Part of Your Elopement?
Absolutely! Your dog can still join you for your Garden of the Gods elopement, appear in your photographs, and be part of the celebration.
One important distinction: although some Colorado counties have allowed pet paw prints on marriage licenses, El Paso County no longer accepts pet paw prints in the witness section because of document scanning issues. If you're getting your license in another county, check its current policy first.
If you're bringing your dog to Garden of the Gods, remember to follow the park's pet rules and keep your dog leashed.
Dog-Friendly Elopements at Garden of the Gods
Your dog is part of your family, so why not include them in your Garden of the Gods elopement? Dogs are welcome throughout the park, making it possible to bring your four-legged family member along for your ceremony, portraits, and celebration.
Whether your dog walks down the aisle, joins you for a few portraits, or simply hangs out while you exchange vows, a little planning can help make the experience enjoyable for everyone.
Garden of the Gods Dog Rules
Before bringing your dog to the park, keep these guidelines in mind:
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Keep your dog on a leash: Dogs must remain on a leash at least six feet long throughout the park, including trails, ceremony areas, and photo locations.
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Clean up after your dog: Bring waste bags and dispose of pet waste properly. Cleanup bags are also available near the Visitor & Nature Center.
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Stay on established trails: Keep your dog on designated trails and avoid disturbing vegetation or wildlife.
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Respect other visitors: Garden of the Gods is a popular public park. Keep your dog under control and give other visitors and animals plenty of space.
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Bring water: Colorado's dry climate and summer temperatures can make dogs thirsty quickly. Bring fresh water and a portable bowl.
Dogs are welcome in most outdoor areas of the park, but they must follow the same leash and park regulations as other visitors.
Is There an Off-Leash Dog Area?
Yes! Garden of the Gods has a designated off-leash dog area near the park's main entrance.
The area is located south of Gateway Road, between 30th Street and Rock Ledge Ranch. It's a separate recreation area where dogs can exercise off leash under voice control.
Keep in mind that this is not within the main Garden of the Gods ceremony areas. Your dog must be leashed again when entering the park.
Tips for Including Your Dog in Your Elopement
Having your dog at your elopement can make the day even more meaningful, but it's worth thinking through a few details beforehand.
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Bring someone to help: Ask a friend or family member to be responsible for your dog before, during, and after the ceremony. This allows you and your partner to enjoy the moment without worrying about handling the leash.
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Choose a dog-friendly ceremony location: Consider walking distances, terrain, crowds, and how comfortable your dog will be in the area.
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Schedule a little extra time: Allow time for bathroom breaks, water, walks, and a few relaxed portraits with your dog.
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Consider the weather: Summer temperatures can make pavement and exposed surfaces uncomfortable for dogs' paws. During colder months, snow and icy conditions may also be challenging.
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Bring familiar supplies: Pack water, a portable bowl, waste bags, treats, and anything else that helps your dog feel comfortable.
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Keep expectations flexible: Dogs can be unpredictable, especially in unfamiliar surroundings. Don't worry about getting every photograph exactly as planned. Some of the best moments happen naturally.
A Note About Your Dog's Comfort
Garden of the Gods sits at approximately 6,400 feet above sea level. The elevation, dry air, changing temperatures, and busy trails can be a lot for some dogs, especially older dogs or those not accustomed to longer walks.
Keep an eye on your dog's comfort, take breaks when needed, and avoid pushing them through hot or icy conditions. You want them to enjoy the experience just as much as you do.
Planning an elopement with your dog? I love including four-legged family members in wedding photographs. As we plan your day, we can choose suitable locations, build in time for dog portraits, and make sure there's room in the timeline for everyone to enjoy the experience.
Sample Garden of the Gods Elopement Timeline
Curious about how timelines and coverage work across different packages? My Elopement Investment Page breaks down all my options, from one-hour ceremonies to multi-day adventures.
Every elopement is different. Some couples want a short and intimate ceremony followed by portraits, while others want to spend the day exploring, celebrating with family, and visiting multiple locations.
The sample timeline below shows what a relaxed, full-day Garden of the Gods elopement could look like with approximately 10 hours of photography coverage. It includes getting ready, a first look, private vows, the ceremony, family photographs, and plenty of time to explore the park together.
Looking for a shorter experience? My Colorado elopement photography packages include options ranging from intimate one-hour ceremonies to extended adventures.
9:00 AM — Getting Ready
Start the morning slowly at your Airbnb, cabin, or accommodation. I'll photograph the details, getting-ready moments, final touches, and candid interactions as you prepare for the day. This is also a great opportunity to capture photographs with family or friends before heading to the park.
10:00 AM — First Look & Private Vows
Share a first look in a quiet location surrounded by Colorado scenery. Take a moment to enjoy each other before the ceremony, exchange private vows, or simply spend some time together away from the excitement of the day.
11:00 AM — Adventure Portraits
Explore Garden of the Gods and capture portraits among its iconic red rock formations. We can visit a few scenic locations, take our time, and enjoy the experience without rushing from one spot to another.
12:30 PM — Wedding Ceremony
Gather with your guests at one of Garden of the Gods' six designated ceremony locations, or exchange vows privately if you're celebrating just the two of you. Enjoy the moment, exchange rings, and make it official.
1:00 PM — Family & Group Portraits
After the ceremony, we'll photograph family members, friends, and group combinations. I'll help organize these photographs so we can capture everyone without taking too much time away from your celebration.
2:00 PM — Time to Celebrate
Enjoy a relaxed break with your guests. This could include a picnic at a designated picnic area, a meal elsewhere in Colorado Springs, or simply some time together before continuing your portraits.
3:00 PM — Scenic Couple's Portraits
Head to another scenic area for more relaxed portraits together. We can explore different backgrounds, enjoy the scenery, and capture natural moments as you experience your first hours as a married couple.
5:00 PM — Evening Portraits & Golden Hour
Depending on the season and sunset time, we'll plan for the best available evening light. The warm glow across the red rock formations can create beautiful opportunities for romantic portraits.
7:00 PM — Wrap Up
Finish the day with a final set of photographs and enjoy a few quiet moments together. Whether you're heading to dinner, celebrating with family, or continuing your adventure, you'll have a collection of photographs documenting the experience.
A Note About Your Timeline
This is only one example of how a full-day elopement could unfold. Your actual schedule will depend on the season, sunset time, ceremony location, guest count, travel between locations, and the experience you want to create. I'll help you build a personalized timeline that gives you enough time to enjoy the day without feeling rushed.
Accessibility at Garden of the Gods
Garden of the Gods offers several accessible features that make it possible for visitors with different mobility needs to experience the park's incredible scenery. Paved walking paths, accessible parking, and facilities at the Visitor & Nature Center provide options for couples and guests who may have difficulty navigating uneven trails or longer walks.
If you're planning an elopement with older family members, guests using wheelchairs, or anyone with limited mobility, it's worth considering accessibility when choosing your ceremony location and planning your photography timeline.
Accessible Trails and Scenic Areas
Perkins Central Garden Trail
The Perkins Central Garden Trail is one of the most accessible ways to experience the park's iconic red rock formations. This approximately 1.5-mile paved loop has less than 30 feet of elevation gain and provides close-up views of some of the park's most impressive rock formations.
It's a wonderful option for visitors using wheelchairs, mobility equipment, or strollers. You can also enjoy shorter portions of the paved trail rather than completing the entire loop.
Gateway and Central Garden Trails
The paved Gateway Trail connects the park's main entrance area with the Central Garden. Some sections provide relatively easy walking access, although route conditions and distances should be considered when planning for guests with mobility limitations.
Not every trail in Garden of the Gods is accessible. Many other routes have gravel, uneven surfaces, stairs, steep sections, or rocky terrain.
Accessible Parking and Facilities
Garden of the Gods has accessible parking spaces throughout designated parking areas, including near the Central Garden.
The Visitor & Nature Center also offers several accessibility features:
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Accessible parking and building entrances.
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Entrance ramps and elevator access.
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Automatic doors.
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Accessible restrooms.
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Wheelchairs available at no charge on a first-come, first-served basis.
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Seasonal shuttle service with ADA-compliant vehicles.
Wheelchairs at the Visitor & Nature Center cannot be reserved, so availability is not guaranteed. The seasonal shuttle also operates only during selected periods of the year.
Choosing an Accessible Elopement Location
If accessibility is important for your wedding day, I recommend choosing your ceremony location based on the needs of your guests rather than simply selecting the most dramatic scenery.
Consider the following when planning:
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Walking distance: How far will guests need to walk from the parking area to the ceremony location?
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Trail surfaces: Are the paths paved, or do they include gravel, rocks, stairs, or uneven ground?
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Elevation and terrain: Are there slopes or changes in elevation that could make access difficult?
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Parking: Is accessible parking available reasonably close to the ceremony location?
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Restrooms: Will guests have access to nearby restroom facilities?
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Weather: Will heat, cold, snow, or ice affect the comfort and safety of your guests?
One important consideration: accessible trails and parking do not automatically mean every designated wedding ceremony location is wheelchair accessible. Check the specific route and ceremony area before making your plans.
Planning an Elopement With Accessibility in Mind
As your photographer, I can help you build a timeline that considers walking distances, parking, lighting, and the needs of everyone attending. We can prioritize paved routes, minimize unnecessary walking, and allow additional time between locations.
You don't need to hike or explore difficult terrain to have beautiful photographs at Garden of the Gods. There are plenty of opportunities to capture the scenery and celebrate your marriage without requiring a strenuous adventure.
For the latest accessibility information, trail details, and visitor services, visit the official Garden of the Gods accessibility guide and Garden of the Gods trail guide.
What You Can and Can't Bring to Your Garden of the Gods Elopement
Garden of the Gods is a protected natural landmark, so wedding ceremonies have a few restrictions designed to preserve the park and keep public spaces accessible to everyone. The good news is that you can still bring the essentials for a meaningful, beautiful ceremony without needing elaborate decorations or setups.
Here's what you should know before packing for your elopement.
What You Can Bring
The following personal items are generally suitable for a small Garden of the Gods ceremony:
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Wedding bouquets and boutonnieres: Bring your flowers to add a personal touch to your ceremony and portraits. Keep them handheld rather than setting up floral decorations.
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Wedding rings: Bring your rings and anything else you need for your vows.
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Vow books: Personal vow books and small items you can carry with you are great for an intimate ceremony.
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Comfortable footwear: Consider bringing walking shoes or boots for exploring the park, even if you plan to wear dress shoes during your ceremony.
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Layers and weather protection: Colorado weather can change quickly. Bring jackets, warm layers, sunscreen, and other essentials depending on the season.
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Water and snacks: Bring water to stay hydrated and small snacks for yourself and your guests. Remember to pack out all trash.
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Chairs for certain guests: Chairs are permitted only for elderly or disabled guests.
What You Cannot Bring
Garden of the Gods has strict restrictions on wedding decorations, equipment, and certain activities. The following are not permitted during wedding ceremonies:
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Arches, trellises, and ceremony structures: No wedding arches, backdrops, or similar installations.
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Tables and tents: These are not permitted at ceremony locations.
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Wedding decorations: Decorations of any kind are prohibited.
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Confetti, rice, and flower petals: Do not throw or scatter anything during your ceremony.
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Balloons and releases: Releasing balloons, birds, or butterflies is prohibited.
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Alcohol: Alcoholic beverages are not allowed anywhere in the park, including champagne toasts.
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Amplified sound: Speakers, microphones, and amplified music are not permitted for weddings.
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Drones: Drone use is prohibited throughout Garden of the Gods.
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Blocking public areas: You cannot reserve, close off, or block ceremony spaces, trails, or parking areas for your group.
These restrictions help protect the park's natural environment and ensure that other visitors can continue enjoying the area.
A Few Things to Remember
Garden of the Gods is a public park, not a private wedding venue. Keep your ceremony small and brief, stay on established trails, and be respectful of other visitors who may be sharing the same location.
If you'd like to enjoy a picnic after your ceremony, the park allows picnics at the designated Scotsman and South Spring Canyon Picnic Areas. These areas are first-come, first-served, and alcohol is still prohibited.
My recommendation is to keep things simple. Bring your flowers, rings, vows, comfortable shoes, and anything you need to enjoy the day. You don't need elaborate decorations to create a meaningful elopement surrounded by Colorado's incredible scenery.
Weather & Safety at Garden of the Gods
Garden of the Gods is beautiful in every season, but Colorado's weather can be unpredictable. Sunny mornings can turn into windy afternoons, summer thunderstorms can develop quickly, and winter conditions can bring snow and ice.
A little preparation goes a long way toward keeping your elopement comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Here are a few things to consider when planning your day.
Altitude and Hydration
Garden of the Gods sits approximately 6,400 feet above sea level. If you're visiting from a lower elevation, you may notice that physical activity feels more demanding than usual.
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Drink plenty of water before and during your visit.
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Take your time when walking between locations.
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Bring snacks and take breaks when needed.
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Avoid overexertion, especially if you're not accustomed to higher elevations.
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Consider arriving in Colorado a day or two before your elopement to give yourself time to adjust.
You don't need to hike a mountain to enjoy Garden of the Gods, but even short walks can feel different at this elevation.
Summer Heat and Thunderstorms
Summer in Colorado brings long days, warm temperatures, and beautiful afternoon light. It also brings the possibility of sudden thunderstorms, particularly during July and August.
For a more comfortable experience:
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Consider scheduling your ceremony early in the morning or later in the evening.
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Bring water, sunscreen, sunglasses, and lightweight clothing.
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Wear comfortable shoes for walking between locations.
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Keep an eye on the forecast, especially when thunderstorms are predicted.
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Have a backup plan in case weather conditions change.
Important lightning safety: If you hear thunder or see lightning, stop outdoor activities and immediately seek shelter in a substantial building or an enclosed vehicle. Picnic shelters, trees, and rock formations are not safe lightning shelters. Wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunder before returning outdoors.
Winter Weather and Changing Conditions
Winter elopements at Garden of the Gods can be beautiful, especially when snow highlights the red rock formations. However, cold temperatures, icy paths, and changing weather conditions require additional preparation.
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Dress in warm layers that can be added or removed throughout the day.
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Bring gloves, warm socks, and insulated footwear.
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Consider traction devices such as microspikes if walking surfaces are icy.
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Allow extra time when traveling between locations.
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Be cautious on shaded trails and paved paths, where ice can remain even when other areas have melted.
Snow and ice can make some areas difficult to access. Always prioritize safe walking conditions over reaching a particular photo location.
Wind and Photography Conditions
Wind is something couples should consider when planning an outdoor ceremony in Colorado. Exposed overlooks and open areas can become especially windy, making it difficult to manage hair, veils, bouquets, and lightweight clothing.
A few simple preparations can help:
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Bring hair ties, pins, or extra styling supplies.
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Consider a hairstyle that can handle some wind.
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Secure your bouquet and any loose accessories.
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Bring a jacket or shawl for cooler conditions.
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Consider a sheltered location if strong winds are forecast.
I also recommend keeping your timeline flexible. If conditions are better at a different time of day or location, we can adjust the photography plan accordingly.
General Park Safety
While exploring Garden of the Gods, remember that you're visiting a protected natural area with millions of visitors each year.
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Stay on established trails and paved pathways.
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Do not climb or walk on the rock formations.
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Wear comfortable shoes with good traction.
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Keep a safe distance from wildlife and never feed or approach animals.
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Keep dogs leashed and under control.
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Follow posted signs and park regulations.
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Pack out everything you bring into the park.
Planning Around the Weather
Colorado weather doesn't always follow the forecast, and conditions can change throughout the day. I recommend checking the forecast shortly before your elopement and staying flexible with your plans.
As your photographer, I'll help you consider lighting, wind, temperatures, and weather conditions when building your timeline. If we need to adjust the order of locations or move portraits to another time, we can work that into the plan.
Your safety and experience always come first. Beautiful photographs are important, but enjoying your wedding day comfortably and safely matters even more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do we need a permit to get married at Garden of the Gods?
No. Small, brief wedding ceremonies at the six designated locations do not require a ceremony permit. Locations are free to use and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Professional wedding planners may need a separate commercial-use permit. Personal wedding photography for the couple does not currently require a commercial photography permit.
Can we reserve a ceremony location?
No. Garden of the Gods does not accept reservations for wedding ceremony locations. All six sites are first-come, first-served, and remain open to the public. Other visitors may be present during your ceremony, so it's a good idea to have a backup location in mind.
How many guests can we invite?
Each ceremony location has a different maximum capacity:
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Jaycee Plaza: 40 people
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Sentinel Plaza: 25 people
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Three Graces Plaza: 20 people
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High Point: 20 people
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Scotsman Picnic Area: 20 people
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South Spring Canyon: 30 people
These are maximum group sizes, not additional guest allowances. Choose your location based on your total group size and remember that parking can become limited during busy periods.
Can we bring decorations, an arch, or chairs?
Wedding arches, tables, tents, trellises, and decorations are not permitted. Throwing confetti, rice, or flower petals and releasing balloons, birds, or butterflies are also prohibited. Chairs are allowed only for elderly or disabled guests. Simple personal items such as bouquets, rings, and vow books are suitable for your ceremony.
Can we have a reception or champagne toast in the park?
Alcohol is prohibited throughout Garden of the Gods, including champagne toasts. Wedding receptions are not permitted in the park, with the exception of picnics at the designated Scotsman and South Spring Canyon Picnic Areas.
Can we fly a drone for our wedding photographs?
No. Drone use is prohibited throughout Garden of the Gods Park. This restriction applies to wedding photography and video as well.
Are dogs allowed at Garden of the Gods?
Yes! Dogs are welcome throughout the park as long as they remain on a leash at least six feet long. Owners must clean up after their pets. There is also a designated off-leash dog area near the park entrance, separate from the main park.
Is Garden of the Gods wheelchair accessible?
Some areas are accessible, including the paved Perkins Central Garden Trail, accessible parking, and facilities at the Visitor & Nature Center. However, not every ceremony location or trail is wheelchair accessible. Consider walking distances, surfaces, slopes, and proximity to parking when choosing your ceremony site.
What is the best time of day for an elopement?
Sunrise is often a great choice for fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and soft morning light. Late afternoon and the hours before sunset can also provide beautiful warm light across the red rock formations. Weekdays generally offer a quieter experience than busy weekends.
Can we get married at Garden of the Gods without an officiant?
Absolutely! Colorado allows couples to solemnize their own marriage, meaning you can legally marry yourselves without an officiant or witnesses. You'll still need a valid Colorado marriage license and must return the completed paperwork to the issuing county clerk and recorder.
Where do we get our Colorado marriage license?
If you're getting married in Colorado Springs, you can apply through the El Paso County Clerk and Recorder. The license costs $30, is valid immediately upon issuance, and must be used within 35 days. The completed license must be returned within 63 days after your ceremony.
What happens if it rains or the weather changes?
Colorado weather can change quickly, especially during summer afternoons when thunderstorms are common. I recommend keeping your timeline flexible and having a backup plan. If lightning or dangerous weather develops, outdoor activities should stop until conditions are safe. Your safety always comes first.
Where can we park at Garden of the Gods?
There are several free parking areas throughout the park, including near the Central Garden, High Point, Scotsman Picnic Area, and other popular locations. Parking can fill quickly during summer weekends and holidays, so allow extra time and choose parking based on your ceremony location.
Planning a Surprise Proposal at Garden of the Gods?
Not planning an elopement but thinking about proposing at Garden of the Gods? You're in the right place.
Garden of the Gods is one of Colorado's most beautiful locations for a surprise proposal. From choosing the right scenic overlook to finding a quieter spot and planning the timing, a little preparation can make all the difference.
I help plan and photograph surprise proposals throughout Garden of the Gods, capturing the moment discreetly so your partner can experience the surprise while you get to relive it through photographs.
Planning to pop the question? Visit my Garden of the Gods Proposal Photographer page to learn more about the experience, planning assistance, and photography packages.
“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
Real Garden of the Gods Elopement Galleries
Every Garden of the Gods elopement is different. The season, weather, lighting, location, and personal touches all help shape the experience.
Below are a few real elopements I've photographed throughout the park. Explore the galleries to see the ceremonies, candid moments, portraits, and beautiful red rock scenery that make each celebration unique.
Whether you're planning an intimate ceremony with just the two of you or celebrating with family and friends, these galleries offer a closer look at what your own Garden of the Gods elopement could look like.
About Your Garden of the Gods Elopement Photographer
I'm Bobak, a Colorado Springs-based elopement photographer specializing in intimate, adventurous weddings throughout Colorado.
Garden of the Gods is one of the places I know best. From choosing the right ceremony location and finding beautiful portrait spots to planning around lighting, crowds, and seasonal conditions, I help couples navigate the details so they can focus on enjoying their wedding day.
My approach is relaxed, personal, and focused on capturing genuine moments. Whether you're exchanging vows privately or celebrating with family and friends, I'll help you create an experience that feels natural, meaningful, and true to you.
If you're dreaming of getting married among the iconic red rocks of Garden of the Gods, I'd love to hear what you're planning.
Let's start planning your Garden of the Gods elopement.