The Ultimate Guide for your Garden of the Gods Elopement
Why You Should Plan A Garden of the Gods Elopement
Garden of the Gods is just outside of Colorado Springs; About 1 hour from Denver, Colorado. The red rock and greenery almost have a Sedona vibe – you’ll swear you’re out in the southwestern desert but with Colorado weather. If you’re on the hunt for an elopement or wedding ceremony location that is easily accessible, free, full of mountain views and unique rock formations then you might want to consider a Garden of the Gods elopement or intimate wedding.
Keep reading to learn more about this unique and scenic park near Colorado Springs!
* NOTE – Guide Updated For 2023 *
Table of Contents
What's the Best Time to Elope at Garden of the Gods?
1.) Winter (December - March)
It may seem crazy to some, but winter is one of my favorite seasons in Garden of the Gods. Why? You’ll typically see way less people in the park, and you never know what type of weather you’re going to get. It could be a perfect sunny 65 degree day or it could be a white out blizzard! February/March tend to be the months where we see the most snow.
The contrast between the snow and the vivid red rocks will enhance your photographs, and cold weather will mean less people on the trails and in the parking lots. Garden of the Gods is covered in Pinion pines and Douglas fir trees which means you will see green year around!
During the winter you’ll find that most of the bathrooms are closed with the exception of the established bathrooms near Central Garden or the Visitor Center. If you plan to hike extensively during this timeframe, check the recent weather conditions or All Trails for reviews from recent visitors. All of the photos below were taken during the winter, which is a great example of the crazy weather patterns we encounter here in Colorado.
Can you believe that the two photos below were taken a week apart?!
2.) Spring (April - Early June)
Spring in Colorado is an exciting season. Similar to winter, we just don’t know what we will get when it comes to weather. It’s not uncommon for the Colorado Springs/Denver area to see snow in April (or even early May), so plan accordingly and keep an eye on the weather forecast. You’re more likely to see afternoon showers during this season, but can typically expect temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees if the weather is cooperating.
Just a heads up if you plan to visit in spring on the weekends; it is very busy and hard to find parking. This will apply to all times of the day except for sunrise. Locals are tired of being cooped up inside and as soon as it gets above 55 degrees the park will be insanely crowds. The busiest Saturday I’ve ever encountered was a 65 degree day in March.
3.) Summer (Mid June - August)
Welcome to one of the busiest seasons in this beautiful park! Summer yields dryer trails and less afternoon storms, but be sure to keep an eye on the weather forecast. Temperatures typically range from 65 to 95 degrees. If you plan to visit during summer for engagement or wedding photos I would suggest to opt for a weekday or sunrise.
My second favorite time of the year to photograph in Garden of the Gods is during the summer at sunrise. The weather is perfect, and you can have the busiest and most scenic places in the park all to yourself. Why not make a date of it? Bring along coffee, a blanket, and watch the sunrise hit Pikes Peak and Central Garden. The glow from the red rocks is magical!
4.) Fall (September - November)
You will find that fall is very similar to summer, but with a slightly higher chance of snow. It’s unusual to see a snowstorm in September in Colorado Springs, but not impossible! You will likely see temperature swings with cooler mornings and hot/sunny afternoons. Temperatures can be a little milder (and unpredictable) this time of year, and you can expect anywhere from snow to 50/85 degrees.
If you’re looking for fall colors, I would not suggest Garden of the Gods. You won’t find groves of aspens here, but you may see a little foliage changing in the small plants and shrubbery. Most of the park is covered by coniferous trees that are green year around.
12 Tips on How to Elope at Garden of the Gods
1.) Get To Know The Park
To plan your elopement at Garden of the Gods, you’ll first want to know more about the park. It’s one of the most elopement-friendly public parks in Colorado, but that also means it’s a pretty popular place to come across others who had the same idea for an outdoor wedding as you. An estimated 4 million people visit this park per year. Due to the crowds a weekday morning or evening will be your best time to snag the exact location you’re hoping for, while also getting the best lighting!
2.) Choose a Ceremony Location
Start by choosing where you want to have your ceremony. Below, I’ve detailed the 6 places in the park where ceremonies are allowed – create a list of your favorites! Have a backup, just in case your first choice is taken on the day of your elopement. Garden of the Gods is first-come first-served for weddings and unfortunately there’s no way to reserve your spot. Flexibility is the name of the game with this park, but I think it’s worth it for the beauty and accessibility!
3.) Create Your Guest List
Narrow your guest list to the 0-50 people allowed at your ceremony spot (honestly, anything over 25 is pushing it as parking is limited in the park). Encourage anyone you do invite to carpool! Garden of the Gods has limited parking, and street side parking is all that is available close to some of the below ceremony locations. There have been multiple occasions where I’ve had to wait 5 to 10 minutes for a parking spot, especially in the afternoon.
4.) Encourage Minimalism
No arches or decor are encouraged at Garden of the Gods, so you’ll want to embrace the natural scenery as your backdrop. Find ways to personalize your elopement style with a bouquet, clothing, and jewelry choices – be intentional about what few things you do include! You don’t have to feel limited by the lack of decor. Instead, showcase your wedding day with vow booklets or other small things that can have big significance.
5.) Plan a Reception
To celebrate with friends and family, you’ll want to plan something outside the park! There are a couple picnic areas in Garden of the Gods where you can bring lunch and hang out, but they are far from private and no alcohol is allowed – not exactly the best place to pop champagne. However, the park is only 5 miles from downtown Colorado Springs, where you’ll find quite a few event venues or restaurants perfect for celebrating your elopement late into the night!
6.) Bring Along Your Dog
Dogs are allowed in Garden of the Gods as long as they are on a 6 foot leash. Please remember to help keep this park clean and clean up after your pet. For all the dogs that love to go unleashed, take them to Garden of the Gods Off Leash Dog Area!
Did you know that your dog can sign as a witness on your marriage license? Yep! Colorado doesn’t officially require any witnesses in order to get married, so it’s common for dog-loving couples to stamp their furry friends paw print as a witness to their ceremony.
7.) Sunrise or Sunset? Time Your Ceremony Accordingly
This is a tough one. Sunrise gives you the best lighting and seclusion.. It’s hard to beat that in my book (but I’m crazy and don’t mind waking up at 3:30AM to hike). If you enjoy your beauty rest, then I would definitely suggest sunset. High Point Overlook is one of the best spots in the park to enjoy sunset any time of the year.
8.) Avoid Weekend Afternoons
This is crucial. The park is at it’s busiest in the early afternoons on the weekend, especially if the weather is perfect. Plus, the bright sun may cause harsh shadows if it’s not overcast.
9.) Visit More Than One Location In The Park
Did you know that Garden of the Gods is a registered National Natural Landmark? It’s not a very large park at 1,367 acres, so it’s very easy to see the best things in the park if the crowds aren’t too thick. The walk through Central Garden past Jaycee Plaza, Sentinel Plaza and Three Graces Plaza is one of my favorites and the best way to experience the 300 foot red sandstone rock formations that make up Garden of the Gods. Then head down to check out Balanced Rock and High Point Overlook if you have time. Just a note that most of the roads are one way and you may have to loop around if you miss something.
10.) Parking Can Be Difficult
I can’t stress this enough. I’ve even ran into parking issues on a Tuesday in March at sunset, so come prepared! Sometimes you just need to be patient and wait for a spot to open, otherwise you will just have to find another small pull off or loop around the park again.
11.) Leave No Trace
Please help keep our parks clean so they can be enjoyed for years to come! Avoid going off-trail, and always pack out what you bring with.
12.) Be On The Lookout for Altitude Sickness
Since you’ll be at high elevation, altitude sickness is a very common problem for those visiting from lower altitudes. Start hydrating as much as possible at least 48 hours before visiting, and keep hydrating throughout your stay. Alcohol and caffeine will only further dehydrate you and increase the chances of altitude sickness.
Best Places to Elope in Garden of the Gods
There are 6 main areas at Garden of the Gods where you can have a wedding ceremony. I’ll outline each of these locations below – along with any details you’ll need to know before choosing which is perfect for you!
- Jaycee Plaza
- Sentinel Plaza
- Three Graces Plaza
- High Point Overlook
- Scotsman Picnic Area
- South Spring Canyon Picnic Area
These rules apply to all 6 locations:
1.) Ceremonies must be brief and setup/takedown must be fast and environmentally friendly – no chairs or fixtures are allowed, and parking is extremely limited.
2.) There are no permits available, which means there are no fees. However, you also can’t reserve your ceremony location! To try and avoid crowds on a potentially busy day, a sunrise or weekday elopement would be your best bet.
3.) No alcoholic beverages and no receptions in the park. You’ll want to plan any post-ceremony celebrations at a location outside Garden of the Gods.
4.) Follow Leave No Trace policies and always stay on trail.
If these rules aren’t deal breakers, then you should definitely consider having a Garden of the gods elopement or intimate wedding!
Garden of the Gods Wedding Locations
1.) Jaycee Plaza
Number of People: 50 (recommended to stay under 25 guests due to limited parking)
Bathrooms: Yes, year around at Central Garden parking lot
ADA Accessible: Yes
Estimation on Privacy: This is one of the busiest locations in the park. If you would like seclusion at this location then I recommend a sunrise wedding or elopement.
How To Get There: Click Here For Google Maps Directions
- Coordinates for Main Parking Lot: 38°52’52.52″N , 104°52’49.13″W
- Coordinates for Jaycee Plaza: 38°52’45.96″N , 104°52’47.56″W
To access Jaycee Plaza, park at the very first parking lot on your left hand side after entering the park just after the Visitor & Nature center. You will park in the large parking lot and walk down the sidewalk for a couple minutes before reaching the ceremony location. If the main lot for Central Garden trailhead and Jaycee Plaza is full, there is overflow parking located just outside the Visitor & Nature center. You will need to walk a bit further to reach the plaza if you decide to park in the overflow parking or on another small parking pull-off within the park.
What To Expect: The plaza itself is a circular stone area that is flat and easily accessible to people of all ages and mobility levels. The surrounding landscape is more open than some of the other options – and there can be beautiful greenery during many months of the year. As mentioned above, it’s not the spot for privacy as the main trailhead runs right next to the plaza. From this location you will be directly next to 5 major rock formation in the park: Kissing Camels, Tower of Babel, North Gateway Rock, White Rock and Signature Rock. Just a heads up you will not be able to get the epic mountain views of Pikes Peak from this location.
2.) Sentinel Plaza
Number of People: 25 (recommended to stay under 10 guests due to limited space)
Bathrooms: Yes, year around at Central Garden parking lot
ADA Accessible: Yes
Estimation on Privacy: This is also one of the busiest locations in the park, as it’s located at the intersection of several different hiking trails. If you would like seclusion at this location then I recommend a sunrise wedding or elopement.
How To Get There: Click Here For Google Maps Directions
- Coordinates for Main Parking Lot: 38°52’52.52″N , 104°52’49.13″W
- Coordinates for Sentinel Plaza: 38°52’41.68″N , 104°52’51.42″W
To access Sentinel Plaza, park at the very first parking lot on your left hand side after entering the park just after the Visitor & Nature center. You will park in the large parking lot and walk down the sidewalk for a couple minutes before reaching the ceremony location. If the main lot for Central Garden trailhead and Sentinel Plaza is full, there is overflow parking located just outside the Visitor & Nature center or additional pull offs along the main road. You will need to walk a bit further to reach the plaza if you decide to park in the overflow parking or on another small parking pull-off within the park.
What To Expect: I love this location as you can get right next to the rocks and you’re smack dab in the middle of the park (also known as Central Garden). There is a small and barely noticeable round space on the sidewalk that is the designated ceremony location, but I would recommend to stand closer to the rock formations as photographed below. If you decide to park at the main parking lot for Central Garden and walk down through the rock formations, you will also walk right by Jaycee Plaza. Once you reach Sentinel Plaza it’s a short 2 minute walk down the sidewalk to Three Graces Plaza. So if you choose sunrise make sure to visit all 3 plazas to fully immerse yourself in the unique rock formations!
3.) Three Graces Plaza
Number of People: 25 (recommended to stay under 10 to 15 guests due to limited parking)
Bathrooms: Yes, but it depends on which parking lot you utilize.
ADA Accessible: Yes (only on the sidewalk, the actual ceremony location is not ADA accessible)
Estimation on Privacy: Like Jaycee and Sentinel Plaza, this location is also extremely busy in the afternoon and at sunset. You will be more likely to have space for an intimate wedding at this location vs. Sentinel Plaza on a busier day, but typically I only recommend this spot for sunrise elopements and intimate weddings.
How To Get There: Click Here For Google Maps Directions
- Coordinates for main parking lot: 38°52’52.52″N , 104°52’49.13″W
- Coordinates for alternate parking lot #2: 38°52’34.60″N , 104°52’58.84″W
- Coordinates for alternate parking lot #3: 38°52’31.59″N , 104°52’56.45″W
- Coordinates for Three Graces Plaza: 38°52’34.61″N , 104°52’52.42″W
There are 3 main parking lots for Three Graces Plaza. Alternate parking lot #2 and #3 listed above will get you closer to the rock formations, but if you park in the main parking lot you will have access to bathrooms and walk past Jaycee Plaza and Sentinel Plaza before reaching this location (about a 5 to 10 minute walk).
What To Expect: This location is also accessible by flat stone walkways, but it is notably different from the above two options because of the towering red rock formations taller than most others in the park. Standing before these natural pillars creates a dramatic backdrop for a ceremony, and there is plenty of flat space to move around. From this location you will be directly next to 2 major rock formation in the park: Three Graces and Cathedral Spires. Just a heads up you will not be able to get the epic mountain views of Pikes Peak from this location.
4.) High Point Overlook
Number of People: 25 (recommended to stay under 10 to 15 guests due to limited parking)
Bathrooms: No
ADA Accessible: No
Estimation on Privacy: Like most locations on the list, sunrise or sunset is the best time for an intimate wedding or elopement at High Point Overlook. Most local photographers who have worked at this location before know a good spot to get away from the crowds and tourists, so chat with your photographer or wedding officiant if you want to get the most seclusion at this spot! In March of 2021, I arrived at this location for a sunset elopement on a Saturday we could not get parking, so be sure to plan accordingly or be prepared to wait around for 5 minutes for a spot to clear up.
How To Get There: Click Here For Google Maps Directions
- Coordinates for main parking lot: 38°51’56.41″N , 104°52’44.70″W
- Coordinates for High Point Overlook: 38°51’57.93″N , 104°52’45.64″W
There are two ways to access High Point Overlook. You can either drive in from the south on Ridge rd (recommended), or you can enter the park across the street from the Nature & Visitor’s center. Since Garden of the Gods mostly consists of one way roads you will need to drive through the park in order to make it to the parking lot at High Point. Most people have cell reception at this location which makes things a bit easier.
What To Expect: High Point Overlook is further into the park – to the left past the visitor center on Ridge Road. This is the only ceremony location in Garden of the Gods with a structure to stand under. The slated wooden roof won’t protect you from any rain, but it can create dramatic shadows during many times of day – so plan accordingly! Stepping out from under the structure, this location has more rocky footing with incredible views of the nearby mountains. This is my most photographed location as it’s easily accessible, has a larger parking lot, and it’s one of the best spots in the park to enjoy the sunrise or sunset. You can also see Central Garden and the 9 biggest rock formations in the park from a distance when you stand at the top of High Point Overlook.
5.) Scotsman Picnic Area
Number of People: 25 (parking is extremely limited)
Bathrooms: Yes, but they are closed during the winter/early spring.
ADA Accessible: No
Estimation on Privacy: Less busy than other locations on the list, and it’s likely you will only see a couple people here if you opt for sunset. I honestly wouldn’t recommend this location at sunrise, as there are better spots in the park to capture the gorgeous lighting.
How To Get There: Click Here For Google Maps Directions
- Coordinates for main parking lot: 38°52’20.28″N , 104°53’6.36″W
- Coordinates for Scotsman Picnic Area: 38°52’18.73″N , 104°53’5.20″W
The easiest way to access this area is from the north end of the park. Start at the Visitor & Nature center, enter the park and drive past the first parking lot on your left for Central Garden. You’ll encounter a fork in the road, go right and the parking lot will be just ahead on your left hand side.
What To Expect: The Scotsman Picnic Area is toward the center of Garden of the Gods, and away from the towering red rock structures. Here you’ll find lush green plants, low trees, and 5 picnic tables up for grabs. This location is perfect for an intimate ceremony as there are more places to step away from the most popular trails in the park! During the spring/summer months the mountain views will be covered by trees, but you will have a fantastic view of North Gateway Rock from this area. Note – It’s important to stay on trail and leave no trace!
6.) South Spring Canyon Picnic Area
Number of People: 50 (recommended to stay under 25 guests due to limited parking)
Bathrooms: No
ADA Accessible: No
Estimation on Privacy: One of the more secluded locations at sunset with a large parking lot. The picnic area makes it popular with tourists during the day but quickly clears out the closer we get to sunset. If you are more worried about seclusion than epic mountain views or standing next to unique rock formations then this may be the spot for you!
How To Get There: Click Here For Google Maps Directions
- Coordinates for main parking lot: 38°51’55.59″N , 104°53’25.06″W
- Coordinates for South Spring Canyon Picnic Area: 38°51’55.83″N , 104°53’26.62″W
The easiest way to reach South Spring Canyon Picnic Area is to enter Garden of the Gods from the south at the Trading Post. Drive just past the trading post on the 1 way road and you will run into the picnic area right away on your left hand side. There is also bus parking at this location.
What To Expect: The South Spring Canyon Area is in the southwest corner of Garden of the Gods and like the Scotsman Picnic Area, it is a more forested spot covered in greenery and farther from the rocky desert-vibes of the first six locations listed here. There are 6 picnic tables at this location – perfect for gathering around if you want to celebrate with family in the park! If you want my true opinion on this location for ceremonies or portraits – it’s not my favorite, but it’s a really good spot to go for mountain views if the park is extremely busy.
7.) Hiking Trails
My favorite one! There are hundreds of acres of land in Garden of the Gods and many different hiking trails that are less crowded. If you have a good pair of boots, no guests at your elopement, and would like a little seclusion then reach out to me! I will take you to my favorite spots (leave no trace friendly of course).
How To Get Your Marriage License
Is an officiant or witness required?
You can self-solemnize in the state of Colorado, which means a witness or officiant is not required. There is no waiting period and you do not need to pick up your marriage license in the same county you’re getting married in.
Steps To Get Marriage License in Colorado Springs
- Visit the website for El Paso County Clerk & Recorder here for all the latest details.
- You will need to complete the online marriage application and it will prompt the two of you to schedule a weekday to pick up your marriage license in person.
Garden of the Gods Wedding Reception & Celebration Ideas
- Bring along a blanket and have a sunset picnic with a pre-made charcuterie board from Graze Craze
- Find a quiet spot in the park and enjoy your first dance at sunset
- Pop sparkling water for photos (champagne is not allowed in Garden of the Gods)
- Obtain a permit for rock climbing or bouldering and go on an epic rock climb right in the middle of the park
- Reserve a campground spot ahead of time at Cheyenne Mountain State Park. Pick up pizza for dinner. Enjoy your first dance around a campfire, and end the night with s’mores and photos under the stars and city lights.
- Go on a hike at one of the many hiking trails!
- Bring along your dog, go on a hike with them then take them to Dargen of the Dogs for mountain views and off-leash running at the fenced in dog park.
- Visit Cave of the Winds, go zip-lining and on thrill seeking rides!
- Ride the Pike’s Peak Cog Railway to the top of Pike’s Peak
- Drive to the top of Pike’s Peak via the Pikes Peak Highway.
- Book a romantic dinner at Garden of the Gods Resort or other nearby restaurant.
- Visit a local brewery for a tour or just to enjoy a flight of cold beer. I’d recommend Goat Patch Brewing Co. as they have indoor/outdoor seating, good beer and an open floor plan.
- If you plan to elope at sunrise and have a truck, set up a cute picnic in the back complete with french press coffee, blankets, and cake!
Hopefully this list gives you a little bit of inspiration on the possibilities!! Colorado has so many amazing things to offer, no matter what you love. I highly recommend making your elopement day extra special by incorporating things that you love to do together into your wedding day.
Eloping FAQ's
This stunning 1,300 acre park sits at 6,400 feet in elevation at the base of a well known 14’er, Pikes Peak.
This park is forever free to access, thanks to Charles Elliot Perkins and his family. They donated it to Colorado Springs on the condition that it remain permanently free for everyone to enjoy.
Yes! The park is completely free and does not require a permit or fee to enter or get married.
There are over 21 miles spread across 6 trails at Garden of the Gods. These trails range from 1/3 to 3 miles in length. More information on these trails can be found here.
Yes. The park is also ADA accessible. Parking can be minimal during high traffic times, so plan accordingly.
Sunrise is the best time of day if you are looking for seclusion. The park is busiest in the mid-morning to late afternoon and on the weekends.
Tuesday – Thursday, and avoid weekends if you can.
This stunning 1,300 acre park sits at 6,400 feet in elevation at the base of a well known 14’er, Pikes Peak. Great news for those who may fear altitude sickness during their visit.
This park is forever free to access, thanks to Charles Elliot Perkins and his family. They donated it to Colorado Springs on the condition that it remain permanently free for everyone to enjoy.
Yes! The park is completely free and does not require a permit or fee to enter or get married.
There are over 21 miles spread across 6 trails at Garden of the Gods. These trails range from 1/3 to 3 miles in length. More information on these trails can be found here.
Yes. The park is also ADA accessible. Parking can be minimal during high traffic times, so plan accordingly.
Sunrise is the best time of day if you are looking for seclusion. The park is busiest in the mid-morning to late afternoon and on the weekends.
Tuesday – Thursday, and avoid weekends if you can.
How Other Couples Got Married at Garden of the Gods
Styled Garden of the Gods Winter Elopement at Sentinel Plaza
Photographer: Paige Weber Photography
Design: Paige Weber Photography & Captured by Marcela
Makeup Artist: Sabrina Deemer
Florals: Bridal Wish Floral Design
Black Wedding Dress: Flutter Dress
Looking for Full Elopement Galleries or Hourly Pricing Details?
Visit my contact page – I’d love to hear about your wedding day!
Starting prices can be found below.
17 thoughts on “The Ultimate Guide for your Garden of the Gods Elopement”
This is STUNNING!!! I love how moody their outfits are (SO dreamy!!), and you’ve packed this post full of amazing info!
Wow this is so stunning! What a helpful blog post for your couples!!
This is such a great resource for this location and these photos are BEYOND stunning!! I need to go there!
amazing!! the way the white of the snow contrasts with the red rock is so unique and gorgeous!! These are stunning, Paige <3
Thank you so much, Laura!! That is so sweet. I’m obsessed with this place and it’s hard to believe it’s free to shoot here and so accessible.
Amazing material! Is this place really exists? Such an amazing stylish couple and they were lucky to have you as their photographer!
It’s hard to believe this place is just a few minutes away from downtown Colorado Springs. What you don’t see in these photos is the 14’er this park sits at the base of.
So awesome!!!
This is an incredible guide to Garden of the Gods! Such useful information for anyone planning an elopement there and what gorgeous photos! Very well organized too – made it super easy to read and find the information. I thought this location did need a permit but that is nice that it is free (but sounds very busy) for all. So great! Love this!
Thank you!! A wedding or photography permit is not required unless you are purely doing commercial work/styled shoots. Hired weddings, elopements and portrait sessions do not require a permit at this time but per the website they are working on a new system for this. Those costs will likely fall in the form of a photography permit not a wedding permit, though. Hope this helps! You can find more info on their website for special permits.
Wow, this guide is so in depth for Garden of the Gods! Even for just travellers, there’s so much sweet info in here! Thanks 😀
Great work with this guide Paige! You totally knocked it out of the park and I love all of the details here!
Wow! This is an incredible guide! Gorgeous work as well!
WOW these photos and location are stunning! What a great post with so much great info. I need to visit sometime.
I hope I can go to Garden of the Gods one day. Then I will for sure use this super guide! Lovely photos and what a place!
Ah…Colorado has so many breathtaking spots…and Garden of the Gods is just a dream one!!!! So many insightful tips for anyone who wishes to say yes!
This is so detailed and helpful for ANYONE planning on a photoshoot in GotG! Great photos of course, and terrific information on when, how, and where. You showed us the why!