How many guests can we have at our elopement?

Most national parks, including Great Sand Dunes, have small group size limits, often around 10 to 15 people. If you’re planning something more intimate, this location works perfectly. If you’re unsure, I can help you plan something that fits within the park guidelines.

Can we bring our dog to our elopement?

Pets are allowed in certain areas of Great Sand Dunes National Park, but they are restricted in others, especially deeper into the dune field and protected areas. If including your dog is important to you, we can plan around the pet-friendly zones or incorporate them into part of your day.

What is the best time of day to elope at the dunes?

Sunrise is usually the best option. It offers cooler temperatures, fewer people, and untouched sand, which makes a big difference for both the experience and your photos. Sunset can be beautiful as well, but it tends to be more crowded and the dunes may have more footprints.

Is the sand really that hot?

Yes, especially in the summer. Midday temperatures can make the sand extremely hot and uncomfortable to walk on barefoot. This is why sunrise and sunset are strongly recommended during warmer months.

Do we have to hike far for photos?

Not necessarily. You can get incredible views close to the parking area, especially around the first ridge or High Dune. That said, if you’re open to hiking further, you’ll get more privacy and a more secluded experience.

What should we bring with us?

A few essentials make a huge difference: • Water • Comfortable shoes or sandals • Layers (temperatures can change quickly) • Sunglasses or eye protection if it’s windy I help all my couples prepare so nothing gets overlooked.

Can we decorate or bring an arch?

No. National park rules and Leave No Trace principles do not allow structures, arches, or decorations in most areas. The good news is you don’t need them. The dunes themselves create a clean, natural backdrop that doesn’t need anything added.

Are drones allowed in Great Sand Dunes National Park?

No, drones are not allowed in national parks.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Conditions can change quickly, especially with wind. I always help build flexible timelines and backup plans so your day still flows smoothly no matter what.

Do you help with planning or just photography?

I help with the entire experience. From choosing locations and building your timeline to guiding you through permits and what to expect, I’m there for more than just photos. You can learn more about how I support couples through my Colorado elopement packages or start planning with my Colorado elopement guide.

How far in advance should we plan our elopement?

I recommend reaching out at least a few months in advance, especially if you’re planning around a specific season or date. That said, I’ve helped plan elopements on shorter timelines too.

Great Sand Dunes National Park landscape with sweeping sand dunes and Sangre de Cristo Mountains under a blue sky

Great Sand Dunes National Park Elopement Guide

Q: Great Sand Dunes National Park

Yes, a Special Use Permit is required for any wedding or elopement ceremony within the park. You’ll need to apply through the National Park Service in advance, and there is typically a fee involved. Group sizes are limited, and certain areas may have restrictions depending on conditions. I guide all my couples through this process so everything is handled correctly and stress-free.

Great Sand Dunes National Park is one of the most unique places you can elope in Colorado. Instead of forests and alpine lakes, you get wide open space, massive dunes, and light that constantly shifts across the landscape. It feels quiet, raw, and completely different from anywhere else in the state.

If you’re looking for something minimal, cinematic, and truly unforgettable, this is it.

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Why Elope at Great Sand Dunes National Park

This place doesn’t feel like Colorado.

The dunes stretch for miles, backed by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, creating a landscape that feels almost otherworldly. There are no trees, no distractions, and no fixed viewpoints. You can walk out into the dunes and create your own space.

That freedom is what makes this location so powerful for elopements.

It’s simple. It’s intentional. And it allows you to focus entirely on the experience.

If you’re still exploring locations, you can check out my guide on the best places to elope in Colorado to compare different options.

“Bobak is so fun and made our elopement photos absolutely perfect. These are some of the most memorable pictures we have and I just can’t get over how wonderful he did! 10/10 will use him again!”

Kerri

Great Sand Dunes National Park with expansive sand dunes and Sangre de Cristo Mountains under dramatic clouds

Best Ceremony Locations in the Park

There’s no single designated ceremony spot here, which is part of what makes it so special.

High Dune

The most accessible option with incredible panoramic views. A great balance between effort and payoff.

Star Dune

More remote and less crowded. Ideal if you want privacy and a more adventurous experience.

First Ridge / Lower Dunes

Perfect for couples who want something beautiful without a long hike.

Medano Creek (seasonal)

Flows in late spring and early summer, creating reflections at the base of the dunes that add a completely different dimension to your photos.

The best “location” is often about timing, light, and how far you want to explore.

South Zapata Lake alpine scene with rocky peaks, snow patches, and reflective water near Great Sand Dunes National Park

South Zapata Lake Trail: A More Adventurous Option Nearby

If you’re looking for something more off-the-beaten-path than the dunes, the South Zapata Lake Trail is one of the most rewarding experiences in the area.

This is not a quick stop. It’s a full-on alpine hike.

The trail is about 9 miles round trip with significant elevation gain, taking you from desert terrain into a completely different environment. As you climb, the views open up behind you, revealing a sweeping overlook of the Great Sand Dunes from above.

At the top, you reach South Zapata Lake, an alpine lake surrounded by rugged peaks and quiet wilderness.

It feels remote. Peaceful. Completely removed from everything.

This is a great option for couples who want to turn their elopement into more of an experience. Whether that means hiking in together, doing a day-after session, or just exploring somewhere that most visitors never see, this trail adds a completely different layer to your story.

If you want a full breakdown of the hike, including what to expect and how to prepare, check out my South Zapata Lake trail hiking guide.

rolling sand dunes at Great Sand Dunes National Park under a blue sky with soft clouds and textured ridgelines

Best Time of Year to Elope

Spring (April to June)

One of the best times overall. Cooler temperatures and a chance to see Medano Creek flowing.

Summer (July to September)

Very hot during the day. The sand can become difficult to walk on, so sunrise or sunset is essential.

Fall (October)

Cooler weather, fewer people, and soft light. One of the most underrated times to elope here.

Winter (November to March)

Cold, windy, and quiet. A great option if you want a peaceful and minimal experience.

If you’re planning for colder conditions, you can check out my Colorado winter elopement guide.

Pro Tip

Timing here changes everything.

Sunrise

Cooler temperatures
Fewer people
Smooth, untouched sand
Soft and even light

Sunset

Warmer tones
More dramatic skies
More foot traffic

If you want a quieter, more private experience, sunrise is usually the better choice.

dog standing on sand dunes at Great Sand Dunes National Park with rolling dunes in the background

Permits and Rules You Need to Know

Great Sand Dunes National Park requires a Special Use Permit for elopements and ceremonies.

Here’s what you need to know:

Permits must be applied for in advance through the National Park Service
There is a permit fee (typically around $100, subject to change)
Group sizes are limited
Certain areas may have restrictions depending on conditions

Leave No Trace principles are strictly enforced:

No decorations or structures
No leaving anything behind
Respect the landscape

Also:

Drones are not allowed
Pets are restricted in certain areas

I help all my couples navigate this so everything is handled properly.

wide view of Great Sand Dunes National Park with layered dunes and distant mountains under soft light

What to Wear at Great Sand Dunes

This environment is raw and constantly changing.

You’ll be dealing with wind, sand, and temperature swings.

Flowy outfits work incredibly well because they catch movement in the wind. Neutral tones like beige, white, and earth tones blend naturally with the dunes.

Footwear is something most people underestimate.

Going barefoot can be great for photos, but having easy slip-on shoes makes moving across the dunes much easier.

If you want a full breakdown, check out my what to wear for your Colorado elopement guide.

How to Plan Your Great Sand Dunes Elopement

Planning here is about intention and preparation.

Choose the right time of day

This impacts lighting, temperature, and crowds.

Decide how far you want to go

Some couples stay close. Others hike deeper into the dunes.

Prepare for the conditions

Water, layers, and timing matter.

Keep things simple

This location shines when you let it speak for itself.

I help couples plan everything from location scouting to timeline creation so the day feels natural and stress-free.

You can explore my Colorado elopement packages or dive deeper with my Colorado elopement guide.

Frequently asked questions

Colorado photographer holding tripod at Garden of the Gods with red rock formations in the background

Let’s Plan Your Elopement

If you’re thinking about eloping at Great Sand Dunes National Park, I’d love to help you create something intentional and unforgettable.

From planning to location guidance to capturing the experience, I’ll be there every step of the way.

You can reach out to me here, and let’s start building your elopement together.