Best Engagement Photo Locations within 2 hours of Denver, Colorado (And What Makes Them Special)
So you’re engaged (YAY!) and dreaming of photos that feel like you—epic, a little wild, maybe a little weird, and full of heart. Lucky for you, Colorado is basically Mother Nature’s flex reel, and I’ve spent years scouting the perfect spots for love, laughter, and a little PDA in the wild. Here are a few of my favorite engagement photo locations in Colorado—and why they’re total magic. Bonus: They are all located within a reasonable driving distance from Denver, so if you are just hopping in to town for an amazing shoot I’ve got you covered!
Rocky Mountain National Park - Estes Park, Colorado
This place never misses. Think sweeping views, alpine lakes, rogue rainbows - perfect for couples who want their photos to feel like a postcard and a poem at the same time. I love RMNP with all my heart, and highly recommend that if you decide to shoot here, you do it during the week, and as far away from any holiday weekend as possible!
Best for: Sunrise lovers, avid hikers, mountain lovers.
Pro tip: Bring layers—those mountain winds do not care that your hair was just behaving. Be prepared for alot of driving!
2. Guanella Pass - Georgetown, Colorado
If golden aspens make your heart skip a beat, meet your new favorite place. Guanella Pass is stunning year-round, but come September? It’s like stepping into a painting. That being said, don’t underestimate summer here - greens are vibrant, sunsets are gorgeous, and you might catch a rainbow or two. A word of caution though - weekend traffic here is CRAZY!
Best for: Couples who want high alpine views and gorgeous fall foliage.
Bonus: Wildflowers and foggy mornings in summer are a total chef’s kiss too.
3. St. Mary’s Glacier - near Idaho Springs, Colorado
A short (but challenging!) hike gets you to a gorgeous alpine lake surrounded by peaks (and sometimes snow... even in July). It's peaceful, a little crunchy, and perfect for vows or moments that feel sacred. If you get lucky, you might even catch some wildflowers.
Best for: Strong hikers, alpine lake lovers, and anyone wanting to catch a glimpse (or maybe ski down!) of a glacier.
Pro tip: Wear comfy shoes, it can be a steep hike!
4. Mount Falcon West - Indian Hills, Colorado
Rolling trails, piney forests, and mountain views that hit just right when the sun dips low—Mount Falcon West is a total gem. It’s peaceful, easy to access, and gives you all those dreamy Colorado vibes without the drive to the high country.
Best for: Couples & Families who want a laid-back session with big pay-off views and that magical golden glow.
Pro tip: Parking can be tricky here, especially on a busy weekend - plan wisely!
5. Chautauqua - Boulder, Colorado
This one’s a classic, but she’s still got it. The Flatirons make a stunning backdrop, and there are trails galore for those candid, wind-in-your-hair shots. Come in early June for some gorgeous poppies and other wildflowers.
Best for: Nature lovers, Boulder locals, and dogs who think they’re the star of the session (they are).
Vibe: Earthy, romantic, and just the right amount of granola.
6. Loveland Pass - near Keystone, Colorado
If you're down for a little wind and a lot of wow, Loveland Pass is where it's at. Perched high in the Rockies, this spot brings the drama: sweeping alpine views, jagged peaks, and a sky that feels endless. Also, this place is a blast in the winter!
Best for: Brave hearts, elopers, and anyone ready to soak in that Colorado magic at 11,000+ feet.
Warning: Altitude may steal your breath—but so will the view. Come prepared!
7. Sapphire Point/Lake Dillon - Dillon, Colorado
Tucked between Breck and Dillon, Sapphire Point serves up Lake Dillon views, alpine vibes, and an easy-access trail that feels straight out of a fairytale. It’s intimate, stunning, and super photogenic—like your love story, but with pine trees and a beautiful lake.
Best for: Micro weddings, elopements, and couples who want sweeping views without a brutal hike.
You should know: Chipmunks might crash your shoot. No regrets.
8. Red Rocks Park - Morrison, Colorado
If you're into epic rock formations, golden hour glow, and maybe a cheeky air guitar moment, Red Rocks is calling. It's iconic for a reason—and not just for concerts.
Best for: Local couples, music nerds, and anyone who wants to party with tailgaters after the shoot.
Bonus: Walk around the museum for a peek into some pretty amazing Colorado history.
9. Rino - Denver, Colorado
If you’re dreaming of a session that’s colorful, creative, and a little bit quirky—RiNo delivers. With its ever-changing murals, edgy textures, and artsy alleyways, this Denver neighborhood is a love letter to the weird and wonderful.
Best for: Couples or families who need a break from the mountains and need several pops of color.
Pro tip: Come ready to strut, laugh, and maybe grab tacos after. RiNo’s that kind of vibe.
10. Kenosha Pass
If fall is your love language, Kenosha Pass is your soulmate. Rolling hills covered in glowing aspens, crunchy leaves underfoot, and mountain views that go on forever.
Best for: Leaf peepers, latte lovers, and anyone who owns a cozy sweater collection.
Peak season tip: Go early (like sunrise) to beat the crowds—and pack snacks. And maybe a bottle of champagne.
11. Lost Gulch Overlook - Boulder, CO
Up the hill and above the clouds—Lost Gulch brings the drama. Misty mornings, glowy sunsets, and sweeping mountain views that’ll make you gasp. There are a lot of people here at sunset, so I highly recommend going at sunrise!
Best for: Couples who want their love to feel cinematic (and aren’t afraid of heights).
Warning: Might make you want to elope on the spot.