Where to Propose in Colorado

Colorado is an incredibly popular destination not only for weddings, but for proposals as well. If you’re planning on proposing to your significant other in Colorado, you’re probably trying to narrow down locations. Truthfully, you could pull over anywhere on the side of the highway and have an equally beautiful view in this state. But if you want your proposal to be a memorable experience, we’ve listed ten great options below. Without further ado, here’s where to propose in Colorado.

1. Bishop Castle

Greenhorn Valley local, Jim Bishop built this castle single-handedly, stone-by-stone over the course of his adult life. It’s a true testament to perseverance. And even cooler, it was Jim Bishop’s wish before he passed that the castle always remain open and free to visitors. If you and your partner are into the Lord of the Rings or Game of Thrones, this would be the perfect place to propose. Just be careful if you climb to the top!

2. Black Canyon of the Gunnison

Everyone in the world knows the Grand Canyon, but few non-Colorado residents are familiar with Black Canyon of the Gunnison. The two places are very similar, but BCotG doesn’t receive nearly as many visitors. So, if you want to propose at a canyon and don’t want spectators, look no further.

3. City Park Denver

Looking for more of an urban setting for your proposal? City Park, just east of downtown Denver, offers great views of the Denver skyline and the Rocky Mountains beyond. It’s especially pretty at sunset.

4. Dream Lake

There are approximately 4,000 great locations in Rocky Mountain National Park. That said, we’ve chosen Dream Lake because it’s an easy hike from the Bear Lake parking lot, but it’s still enough of a hike to make it feel like a real wilderness experience. An, of course, it’s a jaw-droppingly beautiful place. Photos below from both summer and winter to give you a better idea.

5. Garden of the Gods

Garden of the Gods is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Colorado. Located just west of downtown Colorado Springs, the park is famous for its monolithic red rock formations, as well as its incredible views of Pikes Peak. And, it’s free to all visitors. Our recommendation would be to arrive as early in the morning as possible to avoid the crowds.

6. Great Sand Dunes

Great Sand Dunes National Park is easily Colorado’s most ethereal destination. Eight-hundred foot sand dunes surrounded by the snow-capped mountain peaks of the Sangre de Cristo range. It feels like you’re standing on the surface of a different planet. And, in May and June, Medano Creek runs through the area at the base of the Dunes, adding a leisurely beach-like element to the experience.

7. Loveland Pass

If you’re wondering where to propose in Colorado, you could do a lot worse than Loveland Pass. It’s perched atop of the Continental Divide, meaning the majority of the area is well above the tree line. There are a ton of great hiking trails that lead to various 13ers and 14ers (peaks that are above 13,000 and 14,000 feet, respectively) and offers views that go on seemingly forever.

8. Paint Mines

The Paint Mines are an off-the-beaten path destination just outside of Calhan, Colorado, east of Colorado Springs. The area reminds us of a smaller version of Badlands National Park in South Dakota. The best part: you likely won’t run into many other people here, especially if you go on a weekday and arrive early in the morning, or stay after dark for star photos.

9. Red Rocks

Red Rocks Amphitheater is one of the most notable live music venues in the world. Nearly every major act has stopped here at some point while touring. The amphitheater itself is surrounded by massive red rock monoliths, and outside of that is a nature preserve with miles and miles of hiking trails to explore. It’s also a great place to watch the sunrise or to view the city lights in Denver at night.

10. Royal Gorge

Last, but certainly not least, the Royal Gorge and the suspension bridge (the highest in the U.S.) that spans it is truly a sight to behold. And in recent years, it has turned into a veritable theme park, with rides for kids, bungee jumping, a rock climbing experience, and gondola that crosses from one side to the other, added to the park. But even with all of those tourist trappings, simply walking across the bridge while looking down at the Arkansas River nearly 1,000 feet below is still our favorite activity.

So, there you have it! Ten of the coolest locations in the Centennial State. But if you’re still wondering where to propose in Colorado, feel free to reach out to us. We could probably come up with 100 more great options. And, of course, you can always bring us along to take photos of your proposal and engagement portraits afterward.

Until then, thanks for reading!