A Sunrise Vow Exchange in Rocky Mountain National Park || Mark + Morgan
Mark and Morgan were preparing for their best day, surrounded by all their loved ones. They were ready to say “I do” at their beautiful Estes Park venue—but they also knew they wanted something more. Something small. Something intimate. Something just for them.
The morning before their wedding, we ventured into Rocky Mountain National Park for a private vow exchange. It was quiet, emotional, and full of meaning. A moment just for the two of them, tucked away in the mountains before the celebration began.
For Mark and Morgan, exchanging vows in Rocky Mountain National Park felt like the perfect way to kick off their wedding weekend in Estes Park. A lot of couples are beginning to create space in their timelines for a private vow exchange outside the wedding day hustle. Some, like Mark and Morgan, choose to get all dolled up the day before their wedding day for this private exchange, while others choose to schedule in a quiet moment the day of their wedding. In either case, whether it’s to keep those words between just the two of you, or to ease the nerves before the ceremony, it’s a powerful way to ground yourselves in what truly matters.
You can read about it and see photos from Mark and Morgan’s wedding day here!
Pro Tips for a Rocky Mountain National Park Vow Exchange
Time it right: Sunset (or sunrise!) in RMNP is stunning.
Wear layers: The weather changes fast in the mountains!
Pick a weekday if you can: Fewer crowds and more peace.
Clean up after yourself: Don’t forget to be mindful of the world around you, pick up your trash and leave no trace!
Consider your footwear: If you are hiking to your vow exchange location, your wedding day heels may not be the best choice.
Getting the Right Permits (for Ceremony & Photography)
If you’re planning a vow exchange in Rocky Mountain National Park, even if it’s just the two of you, you’ll need a Special Use Permit from the National Park Service. This applies to both the ceremony itself and any professional photography that happens during it.
Here’s what to know:
Apply Early – RMNP only issues a limited number of permits per month, and they book up fast—especially during peak seasons (summer + fall). You can apply up to a year in advance of your wedding month.
Where to Apply – You can find everything you need on the RMNP Weddings & Ceremonies page, including the application form and location guidelines.
Permit Fee – There’s a $300 non-refundable administrative fee for the permit. Only pay after your application is approved!
Pick an Approved Location – The park has designated sites where ceremonies are allowed. Each has a max group size (often 15–30 people), so make sure to choose one that fits your vision.
No Need for Timed Entry – Once your permit is approved, it doubles as your timed entry reservation for the day of your ceremony.
Photography Is Covered – If your photographer (hi, that’s me!) is included in the permit
Planning Your Own Pre-Wedding Vow Exchange
You don’t have to follow the “traditional” timeline to have a meaningful experience. Whether you’re getting married in the Rockies or at home in Nebraska, there’s room to make the day (or weekend!) truly your own.
Want help dreaming up your own vow exchange in Rocky Mountain National Park? I’d love to help you plan it! From location scouting to timing to capturing the emotion in a way that feels 100% true to you.
