Imagine exchanging vows surrounded by towering pines with the crisp scent of evergreens in the air and soft light streaming through the tree canopy above. This is the magic of Colorado forest weddings—a setting that blends breathtaking natural beauty with a sense of peace and seclusion. Whether you’re drawn to the idea of an intimate gathering or simply want to celebrate your love in a space that feels both grounding and awe-inspiring, a Colorado forest wedding offers an experience that’s as unforgettable as your love story.
Planning a wedding in the heart of nature might feel daunting at first, but with the right tips and guidance, you can create a day that’s deeply personal and perfectly tailored to you. This guide is here to help you envision, plan, and celebrate your dream Colorado forest wedding.
Why Choose a Colorado Forest Wedding
When to Plan Your Colorado Forest Wedding
Where to Plan Your Colorado Forest Wedding
How To Plan Your Colorado Forest Wedding
Why Choose a Colorado Forest Wedding?
Colorado’s forests provide a truly special setting for your wedding day—cozy, intimate, and straight out of a fairytale. Melodic birdsong and the gentle rustling of leaves create a natural soundtrack for your ceremony, and the smells of pine and sweet tree sap fill the air. In this serene beauty, you’ll find an escape from the noise of everyday life, allowing you to focus solely on each other for a deeply personal and meaningful experience.
Plus, there’s something uniquely magical about being surrounded by nature. The quiet solitude of the forest naturally invites connection—both with each other and the environment around you. It’s the perfect place to celebrate your love in a way that feels completely your own, with nature amplifying every moment.
Every detail of your ceremony, woven into the beauty of the outdoors, ensures that your forest wedding will be an unforgettable, intimate experience you’ll treasure forever.
When to Plan Your Colorado Forest Wedding
When it comes to timing, summer and fall are undoubtedly the best seasons for a Colorado forest wedding. Summer brings pleasant weather with plenty of sunshine, and the shade and elevation of the forest offer a refreshing coolness, even on warmer days. The lush greenery, flowing streams, and wildflowers in bloom create a vibrant backdrop for your ceremony.
Fall, however, offers a completely different kind of beauty. The temperatures cool down, and the aspen forests transform into a golden wonderland as the trees burst into brilliant shades of yellow. The surrounding shrubs and plants turn deep oranges and reds, adding a fiery contrast to the deep green of the evergreens. If you love the idea of early snow, higher elevations might even offer a touch of winter’s first snowfall toward the end of October or early November.
While spring and winter are less popular choices due to fickle mountain weather, they do offer advantages in terms of vendor availability and lodging. Winter can be challenging with the potential for accumulated snow and frigid temperatures, especially in shaded areas of the forest. Spring can also be tricky, as it’s Colorado’s snowiest season, with snow oftentimes continuing until late May. The season’s continued precipitation and melting snow pack can make trails muddy and less accessible. However, if you don’t mind a little mud and cold, spring and winter can still offer some quiet, magical moments in the forest before the summer crowds arrive.
Where to Plan Your Colorado Forest Wedding
Colorado’s diverse forest landscapes offer an incredible range of stunning locations for your wedding day, from lush valleys to high-elevation mountain forests. With nearly 24 million acres of public forest land and 11 national forests entirely within state borders, there’s no shortage of options for tying the knot surrounded by nature’s beauty.
Colorado’s forests are diverse, ranging from riparian habitats to high-elevation spruce-fir forests. Whether you’re dreaming of a serene setting with lush greenery, flowing streams, or breathtaking mountain vistas, the state’s forests provide a variety of landscapes, all perfect for an intimate and memorable ceremony.
With towering lodgepole pines, golden aspen groves, and more, Colorado’s forests will surround you with natural beauty, no matter where you choose to say “I do.”
Public Lands, Airbnbs, and Forest Wedding Venues in Colorado
With so much forest land, there are no shortage of established locations to choose from for your Colorado forest wedding or elopement. From serene public lands to charming Airbnbs and dedicated wedding venues nestled in the heart of nature, these spots offer a luxurious experience while still immersing you in Colorado’s breathtaking forest landscapes.
Moraine Park Amphitheater
For a private forest wedding in Colorado, consider Moraine Park Amphitheater in Rocky Mountain National Park. This picturesque spot, nestled at the base of Eagle Cliff Mountain, offers a secluded and serene space to exchange your vows. Surrounded by towering pines and expansive views, it’s the perfect choice for a tranquil, nature-filled celebration.
At an elevation of 8,100 feet, Moraine Park Amphitheater is framed by ponderosa pines, providing naturally shaded seating. Beyond the forest, you’ll also enjoy views of Moraine Park and the Big Thompson River, creating an idyllic backdrop for your intimate ceremony.
This charming Colorado forest wedding venue accommodates up to 30 guests, with a limit of 10 vehicles. A $300 Rocky Mountain National Park wedding permit is required and can be applied for up to a year in advance. Due to the venue’s popularity, early planning is essential especially for popular summer and fall wedding dates. Additionally, a $30 national park entrance pass is required for all vehicles entering the park, except the one carrying the wedding permit.
While the amphitheater lacks modern amenities like electricity or running water, it is one of the few locations in the park that allows you to have a ceremony arch and to bring your pups—just be sure to disclose their attendance on your wedding permit application.
No trails are directly accessible from this location, increasing its privacy and sense of seclusion. Sunset ceremonies here are particularly enchanting, with the warm glow casting a golden light over your celebration. If you’re seeking a dog-friendly Colorado forest wedding venue with included guest seating, then Moraine Park Amphitheater is a perfect choice.
For more tips on planning your Rocky Mountain National Park wedding day, check out my other blog using the button below.
Bear Lake
If you’re planning a winter forest wedding in Colorado, Bear Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park offers a serene and picturesque location. This beloved spot features a gentle 0.7-mile trail that circles a tranquil mountain lake, providing stunning views of the surrounding peaks and a glimpse into the park’s breathtaking subalpine zone.
Bear Lake is exclusively available for weekday ceremonies during the winter months, with a maximum party size of 20 guests and a limit of five vehicles. Its winter exclusivity makes it a peaceful and intimate setting, perfect for an unforgettable celebration among Colorado’s snowy forest landscape. In the depth of winter, you’ll even be able to walk across the frozen lake, providing a unique view of the surrounding forest.
A $300 Rocky Mountain National Park wedding permit is required and can be applied for up to one year in advance. Additionally, a $30 national park entrance pass is required for all vehicles entering the park, except the one carrying the wedding permit. It’s essential to plan ahead, as Bear Lake’s beauty draws many visitors, even in winter.
The short trail to the lake can be snowy and slippery in winter conditions, so extra caution and reliable foot traction are essential for navigating safely. Due to the icy and uneven terrain, this location may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments. However, if you are seeking a unique and quiet winter wedding in a Colorado forest, Bear Lake offers an unparalleled blend of natural beauty and tranquility.
Hidden Valley
Hidden Valley is one of my favorite Rocky Mountain National Park wedding locations. Although it doesn’t feature the same grand mountain views of much of the park, it more than makes up for it with its fairy-tale-like forests. Not only is this location beautiful, but it also tends to be one of the most private and secluded areas to get married in Rocky Mountain National Park.
The 0.4 mile wheelchair accessible Hidden Valley Trail runs alongside Hidden Valley Creek and is surrounded by diverse plant life, including spruce and fir trees, fairy slipper orchids, and mosses. The area also features three footbridges, enhancing its natural charm.
With a maximum party size of 30 guests and parking for 10 vehicles, Hidden Valley offers ample space for your intimate celebration. Just be sure to leave the picnic sites and trail unobstructed for use by other visitors.
A $300 Rocky Mountain National Park wedding permit is required and can be applied for up to one year in advance. Additionally, a $30 national park entrance pass is required for all vehicles entering the park, except the one carrying the wedding permit.
If you’re considering spending your wedding day in Estes Park, Colorado, be sure to check out my guide to learn more about this quaint town that is home to Rocky Mountain National Park.
Creekside Chateau
Creekside Chateau provides a dreamy forest escape just 10 minutes from Main Street Breckenridge. Surrounded by national forest and set in a quiet cul-de-sac, this private retreat features a charming waterfall and creek, offering a stunning natural backdrop for your Colorado micro wedding or elopement.
The Chateau accommodates up to 20 guests, with a spacious interior that includes four king beds, three queen beds, and additional sleeping options. Rustic mountain charm blends seamlessly with modern renovations, creating a cozy yet elegant atmosphere. Inside, multiple lounges with gas fireplaces provide warm and inviting spaces for you and your loved ones to gather.
Outside, the multi-level wrap-around deck is ideal for soaking in the peaceful forest surroundings. The private hot tub offers a relaxing retreat after a day of celebration, while the outdoor dining area, complete with a gas fire pit and creekside views, invites you to enjoy intimate moments with loved ones.
Despite its secluded feel, Creekside Chateau is close to all the exciting activities Breckenridge has to offer. Guests can explore the town’s rich history, shop at charming boutiques, or enjoy outdoor adventures like bird watching, fly fishing, or relaxing in nearby hot springs. Whether your loved ones are looking for leisurely strolls or adventurous activities, this forest setting offers something for everyone.
To make your celebration truly special, Creekside Chateau also provides access to personalized services such as a VIP concierge and private chef, allowing you to tailor your wedding day to your vision. Combining Colorado’s natural forest beauty with luxurious amenities, Creekside Chateau creates an unforgettable setting for a wedding surrounded by the elements.
If you’re considering Breckenridge for your intimate wedding day, be sure to check out my Breckenridge wedding and elopement guide to learn all about this charming mountain town.
Whisky Jack Lodge
Whisky Jack Lodge offers a luxurious Scandinavian-inspired forest escape, perfect for your Colorado forest wedding. Located at the foot of Mt. Guyot, just under an hour and a half from downtown Denver, this newly built cabin sits on three acres of mature pine, offering total privacy and stunning forest views.
The lodge features three double bedroom suites with adjoining bathrooms, including a master suite with a 60-inch marble tub and private deck. The fully equipped kitchen provides ample space for dining with guests, and the spacious living room includes an 86-inch TV and surround sound. Outside, you’ll find six decks and a six-person hot tub.
Situated near the Colorado Trail, Whisky Jack Lodge offers access to hiking, mountain biking, and nearby fishing lakes and streams. In winter, nearby Breckenridge offers skiing and snowboarding. Combining luxury with natural beauty, this VRBO wedding rental is perfect for an unforgettable celebration of up to 20 guests.
To see more VRBO and private estate options for your wedding day, be sure to check out some of my favorites in the blog linked below.
Whispering Pines
Whispering Pines is a stylish mountain retreat perfect for a Colorado forest wedding in the town of Bailey. This property specializes in micro weddings and elopements, with personalized packages designed to make your celebration unique. With a brand-new 6-person hot tub, two outdoor decks, and a cozy firepit, the rental provides plenty of space to relax and connect with your loved ones.
This luxuriously remodeled VRBO accommodates up to 10 guests, featuring high-end mattresses and a fully stocked kitchen for preparing meals together. Just minutes from local trails, Whispering Pines offers easy access to hiking and the beauty of Pikes National Forest, making it an ideal location for nature-loving couples.
The pet-friendly property includes a fully enclosed backyard and access to 1.5 acres of outdoor space, perfect for celebrating with your furry friends. Nearby attractions like Red Rocks and skiing options add to the appeal, making Whispering Pines an unforgettable setting for your intimate mountain wedding experience.
If you’re interested in learning more about activities you can include to make your Colorado wedding day one-of-a-kind, check out my blog linked below!
Sky Valley Chateau
Sky Valley Chateau is a breathtaking mountain lodge located at the base of Rabbit Ears Pass, offering sweeping views of the Yampa Valley. Crafted from heavy timber and moss rock, this stunning three-story private estate features 10 bedrooms, multiple bathrooms, a great room, a wet bar, and a 16-person hot tub. With 2,400 square feet of turf and a spacious backyard, it provides an ideal outdoor space for your intimate Colorado forest wedding.
Located just under three hours from Denver, Sky Valley Chateau is perfect for enjoying a multi-day wedding experience in the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. Flexible spaces accommodate small ceremonies, on-site dinners, and receptions, allowing you to tailor your celebration to your vision. With the capacity to host up to 31 overnight guests, this venue is an exceptional choice for your Colorado forest micro wedding.
Juniper Mountain House
Juniper Mountain House is the ultimate forest retreat, and honestly, I always think this is one of the most perfect forest wedding venues. Located just 30 minutes from Denver in the Colorado foothills, this venue offers an enchanting setting for micro weddings and elopements. With 10 acres of stunning grounds, the property features two cozy lounges, a bar, two deck areas, an outdoor fire pit, hot tub, and private hiking trails. Accommodating up to 50 guests, it provides a secluded yet accessible location for an unforgettable celebration.
The venue offers five private bedrooms, each uniquely designed with thoughtful amenities, including en suite bathrooms, plush robes, complimentary coffee, and WiFi. Pet-friendly rooms ensure your four-legged besties can join in your celebration.
For your ceremony, The Meadow offers a magical forest setting amidst evergreen and ponderosa pine trees, complete with custom wood benches, a rustic wedding arch, and charming overhead string lights. The Mountain View Deck, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, provides a reception space, with seating for up to 50 guests. Even if the weather doesn’t cooperate, the deck is equipped with overhead heaters, ensuring your day stays comfortable.
Juniper Mountain House features several intimate wedding packages tailored to different preferences and group sizes. Whether you choose the Couple’s Elopement Package for a private “just us” experience or the Juniper Wedding Package for up to 50 guests, it’s the ideal venue for an unforgettable, nature-filled celebration in the forest. Be sure to book early, as they host fewer than 30 weddings each year!
Blackstone Rivers Ranch
Blackstone Rivers Ranch is a luxury Colorado forest wedding venue, just 35 minutes from downtown Denver. Located along the serene banks of a tranquil creek, this venue blends the breathtaking beauty of the Colorado wilderness with refined rustic elegance. With only one event hosted per day, the entire venue becomes your own private escape for your celebration.
Blackstone Rivers Ranch is perfect for smaller gatherings and offers two micro wedding and elopement packages starting at $1,800. Both packages include an intimate creekside ceremony and fine dining experience, allowing you and your guests to fully immerse yourselves in the natural beauty of the mountains and surrounding forest.
If you’re envisioning a more traditional reception or after-party, their full wedding package might be a better fit. Alternatively, continue your celebration at a nearby Airbnb or VRBO. If this sounds like everything you’ve been looking for, request a brochure to start planning your day at one of Colorado’s best intimate wedding venues.
RHIZE Mountain Retreat
Tucked high in the Rocky Mountains within a 43-acre aspen grove, RHIZE Mountain Retreat offers a truly special setting for your Colorado forest wedding. Specializing in micro-weddings and elopements, this venue creates an unparalleled experience surrounded by the natural beauty of the Pikes Peak National Forest.
For on-site lodging, RHIZE offers a distinctive glamping experience with four A-frame cabins and a cozy R-pod camper, accommodating up to 12 guests overnight for Sunday wedding dates. These rustic, no-frills cabins allow you to embrace nature and unwind with your loved ones. As an added perk, overnight guests can enjoy a griddle pancake breakfast the following morning. Keep in mind, this is a true back-to-nature experience—guests should bring their own sleeping bags and pillows, as these accommodations are simple and rustic.
RHIZE can host up to 20 of your closest family and friends for your intimate celebration, with both outdoor and indoor options to suit your preferences. Located just 75 minutes from Colorado Springs and about two hours from Denver, RHIZE is easily accessible, though it’s recommended that guests use an all-wheel drive or 4×4 vehicle for the last mile, as the roads are unmaintained.
Whether you’re craving outdoor adventures or a peaceful forest escape, RHIZE Mountain Retreat offers the perfect combination of intimate ceremony spaces and cozy, nature-filled lodging.
How To Plan Your Colorado Forest Wedding
For a full month-by-month breakdown of how to plan your intimate Colorado wedding, check out my dedicated guide!
Research + Obtain Your Colorado Forest Wedding Permits
When planning your Colorado forest wedding, it’s important to understand that each national forest or park has its own specific rules and permit requirements. Some Colorado forests and parks require a special event or wedding permit for ceremonies held on public lands. The need for a permit often depends on factors like your chosen location and group size.
Some locations, like wilderness areas, may have more stringent regulations due to their protected status. While many locations within national forests do not require permits for small gatherings, it’s always a good idea to communicate your plans with the park or forest service where you plan to marry.
The process of applying for a permit is straightforward—simply communicate your plans with the relevant park or forest service, learn about the application process and associated costs, and submit any required paperwork. It’s a good idea to plan ahead, as some parks can take time to process permits.
Taking care of these details early will ensure a relaxed forest wedding day, allowing you to focus on celebrating your love surrounded by Colorado’s stunning natural beauty.
Practice Leave No Trace Principles for Your Colorado Forest Wedding
When planning your Colorado forest wedding, it’s critical to respect the environment by practicing Leave No Trace principles. These guidelines help minimize your impact on the stunning landscape, ensuring that Colorado’s forests remain pristine for future generations.
The 7 principles of Leave No Trace (LNT) are especially important when hosting an outdoor forest wedding, as events like these can unintentionally leave waste or other damage behind. Here’s how you can apply these principles of outdoor ethics to your Colorado forest wedding:
- Plan Ahead and Prepare: Understand the specific regulations of the forest where you’re hosting your wedding. By knowing the rules and areas where ceremonies can (and cannot) take place, you can avoid disrupting sensitive ecosystems in Colorado’s forests.
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stick to established trails and durable surfaces when traveling to and setting up your ceremony site. By choosing areas with low-impact paths, you prevent unnecessary damage to Colorado’s delicate ecosystems, allowing the forest’s natural beauty to remain undisturbed.
- Dispose of Waste Properly: This principle is especially important for Colorado forest weddings, where champagne pop residue, confetti, or food scraps might be left behind. Be sure to pack out all trash, including biodegradable items like flower petals and food waste, which can harm wildlife if left in the forest. Your goal should be to leave the space the same or better than how you found it.
- Leave What You Find: Opt for nature-inspired décor and avoid leaving non-natural items behind. Respect historical and cultural structures, as well as natural artifacts, by not touching them. Always leave rocks, plants, and other natural objects as you find them. Avoid introducing or transporting non-native species and do not build structures or disturb the forest floor. By embracing the natural landscape and limiting your décor to sustainable choices, you’ll protect the habitat and wildlife for future visitors.
- Minimize Campfire Impact: If you’re considering a campfire for your wedding, be aware of and respect any fire bans in effect. Always use a designated fire pit and avoid collecting wood from the forest. Ensure all fires are fully extinguished prior to leaving the area.
- Respect Wildlife: Colorado’s forests are home to diverse wildlife. Keep your distance and never feed animals or leave food where they could easily access it.
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Keep in mind that many people visit Colorado’s national forests for their own outdoor experiences. By being respectful and considerate of other visitors, your wedding can remain a peaceful celebration of love while allowing others to enjoy the forest’s tranquility.
By following these Leave No Trace principles, you help protect the integrity of Colorado’s forests, ensuring that your Colorado forest wedding leaves no lasting impact on the environment. Abiding by these principles will help preserve the natural beauty of the forest for future couples who choose to get married in the same stunning locations.
For more information on how to have a sustainable Colorado forest wedding, make sure to read my other blog.
Get Your Colorado Marriage License
Securing your marriage license is an essential step when planning your Colorado forest wedding. Be sure to check with the county where your wedding will take place, as each county has its own rules and regulations. Some counties only allow residents to obtain their marriage license there, so it’s important to confirm that you meet the requirements before applying.
If you’re not a resident of the county where your wedding will be held and the county requires residency, don’t worry! You can always visit another area, like Denver, where marriage licenses are available to everyone, regardless of residency. Just make sure to check the specific requirements for both the county where you’re marrying and where you plan to get your license.
The application process is simple and can often be started online, but both parties will need to appear in person to finalize everything. If the paperwork feels overwhelming, another option is to complete your marriage license in your home state before or after your wedding.
For more details on obtaining your marriage license in Colorado, check out my other blog linked below.
Let’s Plan Your Colorado Forest Wedding
Your Colorado forest wedding offers the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in nature’s beauty while enjoying a memorable, intimate celebration. From understanding permit requirements to practicing Leave No Trace principles, each step plays a vital role in enjoying the landscape to its fullest while preserving it for future couples. With so many stunning forest locations across the state, you and your partner are sure to find the perfect one for your celebration.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful forest escape or an adventurous outdoor celebration, Colorado’s forests provide the best of both. If you’re ready to bring your dream Colorado forest wedding to life, I’d love to help with expert advice, personalized guidance, and breathtaking photography that captures every moment of your celebration!
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