How to Have a Private Garden of the Gods Elopement on a Weekend

One of the biggest fears couples have when planning an elopement at Garden of the Gods is crowds. And honestly, that concern is valid. It is one of the most visited parks in Colorado.

The good news is this: a private garden of the gods elopement on a weekend is absolutely possible if you plan it the right way.

I’ve photographed a lot of intimate ceremonies here for couples traveling in from out of state, and privacy always comes down to timing, location choice, and having someone guide you who actually knows how the park flows on weekends.

Let’s break it down.

Why Garden of the Gods Feels Crowded on Weekends

Garden of the Gods is free, easy to access, and iconic. That combination brings visitors from all over the world, especially on Saturdays and Sundays.

Crowds are usually heaviest:

• Late morning through mid afternoon

• Near paved trails and famous viewpoints

• During spring, summer, and fall weekends

This doesn’t mean you should avoid a weekend elopement. It just means you need a smarter strategy.

If you want a full breakdown of permits, ceremony rules, and best spots, start with my guide: Best places to elope in Colorado.

The Best Time for a Private Garden of the Gods Elopement on a Weekend

Timing is the single biggest factor when it comes to privacy.

The quietest moments in the park happen when most visitors are not there yet.

The best options for a private experience:

• Sunrise ceremonies

• Early morning within the first hour after the park opens

• A carefully planned sunset timeline with realistic expectations

Sunrise is hands down the calmest option. It’s also the best light, the best energy, and the easiest way to avoid random people standing ten feet from your vows.

If you’re traveling from out of state and want help building a simple timeline that actually works, my Colorado elopement guide is a great starting point.

Choosing the Right Locations Inside the Park

Not every spot inside Garden of the Gods works for a private ceremony.

Some locations are busy all day because they’re right off the main paved paths. Other areas feel quiet because they require a little intention, a little walking, and a photographer who knows how to position you so your photos feel private even if someone is around.

When I help couples plan a private garden of the gods elopement on a weekend, I focus on:

• Areas that are naturally quieter at sunrise

• Angles that keep crowds out of the background

• Simple movement from one spot to the next so your day stays relaxed

A lot of couples feel pressure to pick the “most famous” viewpoint. The truth is, the most famous viewpoints are usually the most crowded. Privacy comes from choosing what actually fits your vibe.

If you’re also considering other locations with more built-in quiet, my Best places to elope in Colorado page is packed with options.

What It’s Like Working With a Garden of the Gods Elopement Photographer

My job isn’t just taking photos. It’s protecting your experience.

When couples book me for a private garden of the gods elopement on a weekend, I help with:

• Choosing the best time for privacy and light

• Picking ceremony spots that feel intimate

• Building a timeline that doesn’t feel rushed

• Keeping things calm, natural, and fun

You can see what my coverage looks like here: Colorado elopement packages.

And if you’re traveling in and want to keep planning simple, this post helps a ton: How to plan a Colorado elopement if you’re traveling from out of state.

The Simple Weekend Game Plan That Works

If you want the short version, here’s what I recommend for most weekend elopements:

1. Choose sunrise

2. Meet early and keep the plan simple

3. Pick locations that are not the busiest “main pull-offs”

4. Move efficiently and intentionally

5. Wrap portraits before the park gets busy

This approach keeps things relaxed and private, and it gives you a better overall experience than trying to fight crowds mid-day.

Final Thoughts

A private garden of the gods elopement on a weekend is absolutely doable. You just need the right strategy.

If you want your ceremony to feel calm, meaningful, and truly yours, I’d be honored to help you plan it and capture it.

📩 Ready to talk dates and options? Reach out to me here.

Helpful links (quick access)

• Best places to elope in Colorado 

• Colorado elopement packages 

• Colorado elopement guide 

• How to plan a Colorado elopement from out of state 

• Engagement & proposal packages 

• Contact Bobak