Garden of the Gods Elopement & Engagement Photo Guide
Located minutes outside of downtown Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods offers an amazing location for any kind of photography session or elopement! If you’re dreaming of an intimate elopement or adventurous engagement session in Colorado, Garden of the Gods might be one of the most underrated locations in the state. The red rocks of the Garden of the Gods offers a dramatic landscape with the towering Pikes Peak in the background looming over this incredible park.
Whether you’re planning a sunrise elopement, sunset portraits, or a spontaneous engagement session, this guide covers everything you need to know to plan a seamless experience at Garden of the Gods.
Why Choose Garden of the Gods for your Elopement or Engagement Session?
Garden of the Gods is one of the most accessible locations in Colorado, which makes it perfect for couples who want epic views without a long hike.
Reasons couples love Garden of the Gods:
Epic views with minimal hiking
You can park and instantly be immersed in the red rocks of the high desert.
Alpine and desert scenery
With Pikes Peak looming in the background Garden of the Gods has the best of both worlds!
Perfect for sunrise or sunset
Soft mountain light creates dreamy colors across the rock formations.
Close to the city and major airports
This park sits just outside Colorado Springs downtown area making it very accessible to Denver International and Colorado Springs airports.
Best Time of Year for Garden of the Gods Sessions
Every time of year is the best time to elope in Garden of the Gods and Colorado Springs.
Sprint (March-May)
This is the most popular time for elopements and sessions. Wildflowers are in bloom and the trees are turning green giving even more color to the dramatic landscape! Spring also brings rain and with rain comes occasional muddy trails.
Summer (June-August)
Summer brings warm sunny days ranging from 70-90 degrees on average with lush greenery, and long days. Crowding can peaks during this time of year and late afternoon thunderstorms are abundant to say the least.
Fall (September-November)
Fall lasts a little longer in Colorado Springs than it does in the rest of the higher elevation areas of Colorado. The temperatures are cooler making this time of year ideal for a Garden of the Gods elopement.
Winter (December-February)
Snowy red rocks and snowy peaks surrounding Garden of the Gods make for some of the most dramatic scenery. This time of year also is the windiest and coldest so plan accordingly!
Sunrise vs Sunset: Which Is Better?
Both times of the day are incredible, but if you are eloping I highly recommend sunrise to avoid the crowds at the pass. It’s also much less risky as far as thunderstorms to elope early in the day during the summer months.
Do You Need a Permit for Garden of the Gods?
No permit is currently required for most professional photography sessions where the final photos are for the customer’s personal use, including:
Engagement photos
Wedding portraits
Graduation or family portraits
Landscape or location portraits taken by a paid photographer
Professional photographers can shoot at Garden of the Gods without a specific permit for these types of sessions.
This means:
If you’re photographing a couple for their personal images, you do not need a commercial photography permit at Garden of the Gods right now.
When do you need a permit?
A Commercial Film/Photography Permit is required for:
Commercial photography or video used to advertise or market a product, service, or destination (e.g., commercial campaigns, paid promotions, advertisements).
Real estate or corporate shoots intended for business use.
Drone photography or videography — drone use is only allowed with expressed written permission and a permit.
In these cases, you must contact the Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Office of Special Events to apply for a permit.
Tips for a stress free Garden of the Gods elopement
Planning ahead will help your day feel relaxed and adventurous rather than stressful.
Prepare for the altitude
At nearly 6,400 feet, the altitude can affect people quickly. Drink water, eat beforehand, and take it slow, especially if you are coming from sea level and going immediately to your elopement within a day. If you can fly in a few days early that is usually ideal.
Dress for the weather
Mountain weather changes fast. Expect wind. Always dress for the occasion with warm layers, rain gear, shells in the winter, and most importantly a hat or hood to stay warm between photos. Most heat escapes through your head.
Garden of the Gods & Colorado Springs is famous for its strong winds, so hairstyles, dresses, and veils should be chosen with that in mind.
Marriage License
You can obtain a marriage license from any Colorado County Clerk. There is no waiting period, and self-solemnization (marrying yourselves) is legal.
Is Garden of the Gods dog friendly?
Yes, Garden of the Gods is dog friendly on all trails as long as your dog is kept on leash and you properly clean up after them! Fun fact, I have actually seen a cat on leash at the park before!
Nearby Locations to Pair With Your Session
One of the best parts of shooting at Garden of the Gods is how close it is to other incredible mountain locations. Consider adding photos at:
Cheyenne Mountain State Park
Red Rock Canyon
Blodgett Open Space
Lake George
This allows couples to create a full adventure session with multiple backdrops in one day.
Garden of the Gods is perfect for couples who want big mountain views, a sense of adventure, and an intimate experience surrounded by nature. With minimal hiking and dramatic red rock scenery, it’s one of the easiest ways to capture that iconic Colorado mountain look.
Whether you’re planning a sunrise elopement, engagement session, or anniversary shoot, Garden of the Gods offers an unforgettable setting.
