Colorado Trip: Exploring Mountains, Bison, and a Sunset Session
My Colorado Trip Will Always Have a Special Place In My Photographer Heart
In May, my best friend Rhema and I took a long overdue girls’ Colorado trip, and it ended up being one of the highlights of my entire year. I had been craving mountains and crisp air, and Colorado gave me all of that and more. We packed a whole lot of exploring into a few days, and I left feeling even more inspired as an elopement photographer and lover of all things outdoors.
If you’ve never been to Colorado or you’re dreaming about eloping somewhere with dramatic mountain ranges in the background, let me walk you through this trip. It was magic from start to finish.
Starting the Colorado Trip in Denver: Union Station & The Denver Botanical Gardens
We kicked the trip off at Denver Union Station, which honestly feels more like a boutique hotel lobby than a train station. I loved the architecture, the warm lighting, the little cafés, and the constant buzz of travelers moving through. It’s one of those places where you can sit down for five minutes and suddenly feel like you’re in a movie scene.
After that we visited the Denver Botanical Gardens, which was one of the most peaceful moments of the whole trip. I took so many photos there because every turn was a new color, a new texture, or a little hidden corner that looked like it belonged in a fairytale. If I ever photograph an elopement here, I already know the photos would be full of soft greens, florals, and dreamy pockets of light.
Visit the Denver Botanical Gardens: https://www.botanicgardens.org/
Butterfly Pavilion in Westminster
This place surprised me more than I expected. We walked into a warm, tropical room full of fluttering butterflies, and for a second you forget you’re still in Colorado. I took photos of a few species that landed close enough to pose for me. The entire building felt like a living, breathing art installation.
Rhema also got to hold a tarantula in her hand, but… it pooped on her. She wasn’t happy.
The Breakfast That Lives Rent Free In My Memory
Let me tell you. The way I talk about food on trips is the way some people talk about celebrities.
Le Peep in Longmont is officially that girl.
I ordered one of their gooey buns topped with slivered almonds, and it was so warm, soft, and sweet that I could not stop talking about it the rest of the day. If you ever visit, get the gooey bun. Get two. No regrets.
We also went to Tangerine-Longmont for brunch, which instantly became one of my new favorite breakfast spots. The entire place is bright orange and cheerful, and the food matched the vibe. It’s the kind of restaurant where you walk in and just feel happier.
Bison, Baby Calves, and Windy Saddle Cafe
During one of our guided tours, we drove through an area where bison were roaming, and there was even a tiny calf walking beside one of the adults. I think we both just stared with our mouths open because you never expect to see something like that so close.
After the bison excitement, we stopped at Windy Saddle Cafe in Golden. It had a cozy, local vibe, and the coffee was the perfect pick-me-up for the rest of the day.
Lookout Mountain & That Tiny Shoe-Sized Rental Car
Lookout Mountain was stunning. The views stretch forever and the wind up there could probably snatch your soul if you’re not holding on tight. This spot instantly became one of my favorites because it feels like the whole state is laid out at your feet.
Speaking of wind, let’s talk about my rental car.
I made the mistake of letting Enterprise choose my car for me, and they blessed me with the tiniest vehicle known to man. I swear that thing weighed about twelve pounds. The wind pushed it around like a leaf, and every time a truck passed us I considered writing my last words. But parking was a breeze, so I guess it balanced out. Next time, I will absolutely be picking my own car.
Pearl Street Mall & Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre
We walked around Pearl Street Mall, which is always full of energy, cute shops, buskers, and people just enjoying the day. It reminded me why I love exploring cities with character.
Then we made our way to Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre, which completely blew me away. The towering red rock formations make you feel small in the best way possible. I took photos here that quickly became some of my favorites from the trip. It’s one of those places where every angle looks like an album cover or a perfect elopement backdrop.
A Dreamy Sunset Session at McIntosh Lake
One of the highlights of this trip was photographing a couples session at McIntosh Lake. The mountains in the distance, the warm glow of the sunset, and the peacefulness of the water created the perfect atmosphere. It reminded me why I love shooting in new places. Colorado is a playground for photographers, and every direction has something breathtaking.
If you’re dreaming of photos with mountain ranges behind you and a soft sunset reflecting on the water, this spot is a perfect choice.
Why Colorado Is One of My Favorite Places for Elopements
After exploring all of these locations, I completely understand why so many couples choose Colorado for their elopement or engagement photos.
Colorado offers:
- Mountain backdrops that always look cinematic
- Tons of accessible viewpoints for all hiking levels
- Gorgeous sunsets that make every session feel extra magical
- A mix of rustic, natural, and urban settings for different styles
And the best part is that travel doesn’t scare me at all. Whether you’re in Colorado, Tennessee, Illinois, Arkansas, Puerto Rico, or somewhere completely new to me, I’m always ready to pack up my camera and document your love story.
Thinking About Eloping in Colorado? I’m Your Girl.
If the mountain views, wildflowers, golden-hour cliffs, and wide open landscapes of Colorado are calling your name, I would love to help bring your dream elopement to life. Travel is always welcome and encouraged. Your story deserves a backdrop that feels like magic, and Colorado has plenty of that to offer.
Reach out here and let’s start planning your adventure.
SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS