When it comes to Colorado mountain views and blue skies, Estes Park is hard to beat. It is easily accessible from Denver International Airport and the Denver metro area, making it a popular destination for families, roadtrippers, honeymooners, and couples getting married. Estes Park is located just outside Rocky Mountain National Park and sees more than 2 million visitors each year.
Being born and raised just 45 minutes from Estes Park, I've spent a lot of time in the area and have now had the opportunity to photograph dozens of weddings there too! I've compiled a list of Top Wedding Venues in Estes Park to help guide your search for the perfect backdrop for your big day, along with information about weather and seasons in Estes Park.
Below is a current list (as of Jan 2025) of top wedding venues in Estes Park Colorado that includes notes about guest size limits, vendor restrictions, cost range, and photos.
Pricing key: $ = under $5000
$$ = $5000-10,000
$$$ = $10,000-15,000
$$$$ = $15,000-20,000
Estes Park Wedding Venues
Seasons in Estes Park & Rocky Mountain National Park
Let's talk a little about weather and seasons in Estes Park. Colorado is wildly unpredictable when it comes to weather conditions and seasonal differences. In every season, we can experience temperatures in the 70s, for example, that plummet to below-freezing temps on the same day. We may start the day in a tank top and shorts, and be wearing a winter coat later that evening! These wide swings are more common in the mountains (areas above 6000ft) but can happen along the Front Range and eastern plains as well.
Expecting the unexpected is a great mindset to have when planning a wedding in Colorado. There are many things to consider for your event to ensure that you and your guests are comfortable and can fully enjoy the beauty that this area has to offer. The biggest thing to consider while planning a wedding in Estes Park is the ability to have an INDOOR backup space. No matter what time of year you get married, there is a good chance of inclement weather in the Rockies, whether it's a quick passing summer thunderstorm or a regional winter storm. Many of the venues below offer indoor ceremony spaces, and a few offer stellar indoor ceremony sites that are perfect for year-round weddings (like The Boulders at Black Canyon Inn!).
Read more below about each season in Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park.
TOP ESTES PARK, COLORADO WEDDING VENUES
215 Virginia Dr, Estes Park CO
303-440-1315
MAX GUESTS: 60 seated
PRICE: $
VENDOR OPTIONS: in-house, alcohol in-house
3501 Fall River Road, Estes Park CO
866-966-3009
With both indoor and outdoor ceremony sites, Della Terra is a slice of mountain heaven. The property is surrounded by the Rocky Mountains and features terraced seating for guests, an impressive indoor grand hall, and lodging on-site.
MAX GUESTS: 200 indoor
PRICE: $ - $$$$
VENDOR OPTIONS: in-house or approved outside catering, alcohol in-house
Read more: https://www.herecomestheguide.com/wedding-venues/colorado/della-terra-by-wedgewood-weddings
6120 CO-7, Estes Park CO
970-577-3444
Dao House sits on 81 acres of land bordering Rocky Mountain National Park. Offering breathtaking views of Longs Peak and a charming indoor space. Lodging available on site.
MAX GUESTS: 125
PRICE: $$
VENDOR OPTIONS: no restrictions
1700 Colorado Peaks Dr, Estes Park CO
970-577-6400
MAX GUESTS: 150 indoor
PRICE: $$$+
VENDOR OPTIONS: no restrictions
6120 CO-7, Estes Park CO
970-586-5689
MAX GUESTS: 50
PRICE: $
VENDOR OPTIONS: ceremony only
3110 S. Saint Vrain Ave, Estes Park CO
970-577-0027
With both indoor and outdoor ceremony sites, Taharaa Mountain Lodge offers stunning views and unparalleled service. With on-site lodging, guests are sure to make it a vacation.
MAX GUESTS: 120
PRICE: $$ - $$$
VENDOR OPTIONS: in-house Twin Owls Steakhouse, alcohol in-house, day-of coordinator required
800 MacGregor Ave, Estes Park CO
970-652-8544
Located at the top of the Black Canyon Inn property, The Boulders offers a stunning indoor ceremony space with unparalled views of the Rocky Mountains, convenient getting ready spaces, a beautiful cocktail deck, and beautiful reception space.
MAX GUESTS: 200
PRICE: $$ - $$$$
VENDOR OPTIONS: in-house catering, alcohol in-house
1774 CO-66, Estes Park CO
970-820-0179
Family-owned summer camp for more than 100 years, this venue backs up to Twin Sisters Mountain with incredible views of Longs Peak.
MAX GUESTS: 200
PRICE: $$-$$$
VENDOR OPTIONS: approved catering, approved beverage vendors (TIPS certified)
800 MacGregor Ave, Estes Park CO
970-652-8544
At the center of the Black Canyon Inn property is the 1929 log structure that served as the original homestead for the Stacey family. Rich in rustic charm and history, the Homestead venue offers beautiful views and on-site lodging.
MAX GUESTS: 125
PRICE: $$+
VENDOR OPTIONS: in-house catering, alcohol in-house
1774 CO-66, Estes Park CO
970-820-0179
Cozy and charming venue on the river with views of the surrounding mountains, located minutes from Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. Exclusive use of the property is included with wedding bookings.
MAX GUESTS: 120
PRICE: $$-$$$
VENDOR OPTIONS: approved catering
333 Wonderview Ave, Estes Park CO
970-577-4000
Make your day unique at the historic Stanley Hotel, nestled in the Rocky Mountains. The Stanley Hotel features options for indoor and outdoor ceremony sites, on-site lodging, spa, and restaurant.
MAX GUESTS: 250
PRICE: $ - $$$
VENDOR OPTIONS: approved caterers or in-house catering, beverage minimum, in-house alcohol
970-586-1482
With 13 ceremony sites and endless views, Rocky Mountain National Park is perfect for small weddings of up to 30 guests (depending on site). A wedding permit is required in advance and dates fill up quickly.
MAX GUESTS: 30
PRICE: $
VENDOR OPTIONS: ceremony only
510 Moraine Ave, Estes Park CO
970-673-3654
Rustic and simple venue located in Estes Park on the river, Venue on the Rocks offers a serene atmosphere and pond with views of the surrounding hills.
MAX GUESTS: 160
PRICE: $
VENDOR OPTIONS: no restrictions
300 Riverside Dr, Estes Park CO
970-586-1087
Stunning views and rustic reception space, this venue provides a birds-eye-view of the Estes Valley and surrounding peaks.
MAX GUESTS: 150
PRICE: $
VENDOR OPTIONS: in-house catering, in-house alcohol
1130 CR 84 W, Allenspark CO 80510
970-432-8411
With two unique ceremony sites and jaw-dropping views of the Rocky Mountains, Wild Basin Lodge offers a quiet, serene sanctuary for your wedding day. New renovations are coming in early 2025, including deck heaters, new dressing rooms, and flooring!
MAX GUESTS: 200
PRICE: $$ - $$$
VENDOR OPTIONS: in-house catering & alcohol, food & beverage minimum for weekends
2515 Tunnel Road, Estes Park CO
970-586-3341
With sweeping 360-degree views, this faith-based venue is a beautiful choice for weddings. There are mulitple outdoor ceremony sites and reception spaces to customize your event, along with cabins and on-site lodging.
MAX GUESTS: 500
PRICE: $ - $$$
VENDOR OPTIONS: in-house catering, beverage minimum, BYOB & bartending through Peaks Beverage required
Read more: https://www.herecomestheguide.com/wedding-venues/colorado/ymca-of-the-rockies-estes-park-center
SEASONS IN ESTES PARK & ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK
Winter in Estes Park (Nov-April)
Winter in Estes Park, Colorado typically lasts from mid-October through mid-May and is accompanied by cold temperatures and picturesque snow-covered landscapes. With average highs ranging from the mid-20s to low 30s°F (-4 to 0°C) during the day and lows often dipping below 10°F (-12°C) at night, it's also low season for tourism which means a lower number of visitors. Snow is common, blanketing the town and surrounding Rocky Mountains, creating a winter wonderland perfect for activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The town itself tends to see around 60" of snow annually, though some years can bring heavier snowfall. Winter storms can occasionally cause road closures or delays, particularly in the higher elevations, but the beauty of the snow-covered mountains and peaceful, quiet atmosphere make Estes Park a popular destination for those seeking a serene winter retreat.
Thinking of planning a winter wedding in Estes Park? Read my article for tips: https://www.sarahgoffphotography.com/post/tips-for-planning-the-perfect-winter-wedding-in-colorado-a-photo-guide
View this incredible January portrait session at Dream Lake where we had temps in the 30s:
View this snowy May elopement at Sprague Lake, complete with moose, that went viral:
Spring in Estes Park (April-May)
Spring in Estes Park, Colorado, brings gradual transition from harsh winter cold to milder temperatures, with daytime highs ranging from the mid 40s-60s°F (7-18°C) and nighttime lows often still dipping below freezing. Early spring can be unpredictable and still bring occasional snowstorms. Typically by early May, the weather becomes more consistent with longer, sunnier days. Snow begins to melt, revealing the vibrant new growth in the valleys and surrounding forests as wildflowers start to bloom. This season is a great time for outdoor activities like hiking, wildlife viewing, and fishing, as the snowmelt feeds into rivers and streams, and animals like elk, deer, and bighorn sheep become more visible as they emerge from winter habitats. Spring in Estes Park is often quieter than the summer months, providing a peaceful atmosphere.
Don't miss this snowy May engagement in Rocky Mountain National Park:
Summer in Estes Park (June-Aug)
I don't know whether my favorite season in Estes Park & Rocky Mountain National Park is summer or fall (read more below!). Truly, summer in the mountains is hard to beat. With warm, fresh sun-drenched air and the last remaining bits of snow on the high peaks, it's refreshing for the soul. Summer wedding are the most popular as the temperatures are comfortable with highs in the 70s and 80s, and lows in the 40s.
Summer also brings high season to Estes Park, with thousands of visitors each day. Parking is a real issue, to be sure to plan ahead and allow plenty of time (and patience) when visiting. There is a free parking garage just a short walk from downtown, along with paid parking lots along the main strip. Be sure to browse the downtown local shops, enjoy a drink at The Barrel, Full Throttle Distillery, or Elkins Distillery, view the waterwheel at Tregent Park, and grab dinner at Bird & Jim or Glubsteak!
Read more about this summer engagement session in RMNP:
Fall in Estes Park (Sept-Oct)
Fall in Estes Park, Colorado, is a refreshing season, marked by crisp, cool air and vibrant foliage as the leaves change color. Daytime temperatures typically range from the mid 50s-70s°F (13-24°C), with cooler nights that can drop to the 30s. The fall season is especially popular for hiking, wildlife watching, and scenic drives. It is also the season for the famous elk rut when large herds of elk gather and call across the valleys. These animals are wild and unpreditable. Be sure to enjoy from a good distance! The weather can also be unpredictable, with the potential for early snowfalls, but most of the season enjoys clear skies and mild temperatures. Crowds are especially heavy during this season, which runs mid September through end of October. It's a great time of year to enjoy cozy jackets and a warm drink.
Are you engaged and planning to your dream Estes Park wedding? Let's connect so that I can show you how easy it is to love your photos!
Commentaires