The Best Colorado Springs Engagement Session Locations
Believe it or not, engagement photos are one of the first “wedding planning tasks” that couples get to check off their list. Engagement photos are also one of the first glimpses of wedding planning stress that couples are faced with. But have no fear, my friend. My hubs and I are a photo and video duo located in Colorado Springs bringing you some peace as you enter into this exciting season of life. Whether you’re a Colorado native, or you’re planning to visit for a little vacation, here’s a round up of the best Colorado Springs engagement session locations.
Important Note about Permitting for Engagement Photos
Before we dive into these stunning locations for engagement photos in Colorado Springs, we need to express just how important it is to pay special attention to permitting requirements and restrictions. While the Chuck and Shiloh team is diligent in obtaining the proper permitting necessary, not every photographer will offer that same assistance! So if you’re selecting locations on your own, make sure to research ahead of time. Many places require a 30 day minimum notice when submitting an application for special use.
You might be finding yourself wondering why you would possibly need a permit for just taking some photos. But here’s the deal: national parks, state parks, national forests, etc. are designed to preserve nature. By requiring permits, parks are able to better protect resources, preserve the wilderness, ensure the safety of wildlife and park visitors, and to overall provide an enjoyable experience for all.
With all that being said: the following locations on our little list of the best Colorado Springs engagement session locations currently do not have any restrictions in place, per the City of Colorado Springs. However, policies are subject to change, so you are encouraged to double check your chosen location ahead of time! Now, enough “business talk” — we all know why you’re really here! So let’s get into it.
Where to Take Engagement Photos in Colorado Springs
Garden of the Gods
It would feel completely wrong to kick off this list with anything but Garden of the Gods. When most folks picture Colorado, they picture vibrant green pines and snowcapped peaks. And while that’s certainly true of portions of Colorado, the unique landscape of Colorado Springs feels otherworldly. Often referred to as a “biological melting pot”, the grasslands of the Great Plains melts into the Southwest woodlands and kisses the base of Pikes Peak to make up this iconic park.
As runner up to Pikes Peak, the Olympic City brings in millions of visitors each year to marvel in the beauty of Garden of the Gods. Not only is the park free to visitors, it also offers 21 miles of trails varying in difficulty to give each visitor an opportunity to marvel in the raw beauty. There’s truly no shortage of locations for majestic engagement photos in Garden of the Gods.
The most iconic features of the park are Steamboat Rock, the Three Graces, and Balanced Rock; each rock formation is a work of art comprised of deep-red, pink, and white hues. It’s just one of those places that you need to see in order to fully appreciate the vast, dramatic landscape. Arguably, the best way to find picturesque locations within Garden of the Gods for engagement photos is to just pick a trail! To help you narrow it down, here’s just a few trails to consider in the park:
Hiking in Garden of the Gods
Ridge Loop Trail
Length: 0.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 75 ft
Difficulty: Easy
Features: Views of Pikes Peak
Terrain: Rocky, several stairsBalanced Rock Trail
Length: 1.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 137 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Features: Balanced Rock
Terrain: Rocky, uneven gravel and dirt, narrow and steepPerkins Central Garden Trail
Length: 1.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 88 ft
Difficulty: Easy
Features: White Rock and Kissing Camels
Terrain: Paved, wheelchair accessible.Bretag and Palmer Trail
Length: 2.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 321 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Features: Kissing Camels, Cathedral Rock, Pikes Peak views
Terrain: Rocky, uneven gravel and dirt, narrow, some stairs
Because the park brings in millions of visitors annually, be aware of parking limitations and how busy most locations will be. Plan your engagement session with this in mind. Additionally, dogs are allowed within the park which is just a sweet little bonus to mention!
Spruce Mountain Open Space
Located about 30 minutes north of Colorado Springs, Spruce Mountain Open Space features views of towering pines and firs, sprawling plains, and views of Pikes Peak. There are a number of trails within the Spruce Mountain Open Space varying in difficulty, but each providing stunning views. If you’d like a true taste of just how diverse the geography of the Colorado Springs area is, this does exactly that! By traveling just a half an hour from the red rocks of Garden of the Gods, Spruce Mountain Open Space feels like the gateway to the wild west with sporadic mesas spilling into the cattle-covered grasslands. Throw on a cowboy hat or some hiking boots, and you’ll be set to explore with your honey!
Ute Valley Park
Ute Valley Park is a popular spot for Colorado Springs’ locals and visitors alike. With trails varying in difficulty, unique rock formations to marvel in, and beautiful towering pines, Ute Valley Park is a gem. Situated on over 500 acres, the biggest task will be narrowing down where to snag photos. Like most parks in the Colorado Springs area, there are several ways to enjoy the terrain. Whether you’re a couple who’d prefer a leisurely stroll with your pup in tow, or you prefer to get the adrenaline pumping with downhill mountain biking, Ute Valley Park has the best of both worlds.
Red Rock Canyon Open Space
Speaking of adrenaline junkies… Calling all rock climbers! Red Rock Canyon Open Space provides those picturesque views of red rocks and over 1,000 acres to explore. The parallel ridges (hogbacks) and canyons will have you wondering if you’ve stumbled into Garden of the Gods by mistake (which is located just a couple miles North). Although Red Rocks is like a mini Garden of the Gods, it still draws large amounts of crowds. Don’t be afraid to adventure further into the park to escape the crowds and soak up the dramatic terrain.
Image Courtesy of The City of Colorado Springs
Stratton Open Space
By this point, I know that I sound like broken record because I can’t get over just how beautiful Colorado is. Stratton Open Space is a gem with its diverse wildlife and unique terrain comprised of foothills, reservoirs, forests, and prairies alike.
If you’d really like to get creative with your Colorado Springs engagement photos, start at Stratton Open Space before heading into Garden of the Gods. It’s amazing just how vastly different the two locations are at just 15 minutes apart.
Palmer Park
Palmer Park is the perfect engagement session location for couples that want to truly embrace the beauty of Colorado Springs. A common theme with anywhere in this neck of the woods is the accessibility to activities. Palmer Park is no exception! With over 20 miles of trails to explore, the views of Pikes Peak and the foothills make Palmer Park worth a visit. The dog parks, picnic areas, and overlooks somehow make you forget that you’re in the center of the city. Because the park is centrally located (and Coloradans love the outdoors), try to opt for a weekday engagement session to avoid the busyness.
Image Courtesy of Trails and Open Spaces
Engagement Photo Activities in Colorado Springs
One of the most appeal aspects of living in (or visiitng) Colorado Springs is that there seems to be an endless amount of activities to partake in, no matter where your interests lie. Each season of the year makes every park feel fresh and exciting. Not to mention that most parks in Colorado Springs are dog friendly, so you have no excuse but to bring your little pup along to join in the fun.
If you and your boo are looking to add a little bit of “spice” to your engagement photos with some activities, here’s a list of some activities to consider:
Jeep Tour of Garden of the Gods
Horseback riding
Mountain biking
Ziplining
Hiking
Picnicking
Rock climbing
Bouldering
Brewery hopping
Visit the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Tackle the Manitou Incline
Stroll a Farmer’s Market
Wine tasting
Hot air balloon ride
Enjoy tapas in downtown Colorado Springs
Chuck and Shiloh | Colorado Springs Weddings and Elopements
Let us know which one of these Colorado Springs engagement session locations has your eye! Be sure to follow along with our Colorado adventures over on the ‘Gram (@chuckandshiloh). And of course, if you’re on the lookout for more Colorado Springs resources, we’ve got ya covered below. Happy planning, friend!
Additional Resources for Couples
5 Best Wedding Venues in Colorado Springs
The Ultimate Engagement Session Style Guide
6 Reasons You Need Engagement Photos
The Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Estes Park
5 Reasons to Hire a Wedding Videographer
