WEDDINGS IN ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK
REGULATIONS
Weddings in RMNP are popular, thanks to the magnificent
scenery, open air, and wildlife. The Department of the Interior has instituted
non-refundable fees ($50 to $200) for your ceremony and, of course, a form to be
completed too. We’ll get to the form later.
In addition, you and your guests will pay usual entrance
fees and will be required to obey the park’s rules and regulations. RMNP does
have a “lump sum” entrance fee payment which can be paid by calling
970-586-1451. Carpooling is strongly recommended. Your guests can park in town
(e.g., The National Park Village shopping center) or utilize the Town of Estes
Park public parking. Be sure to look for signage that may give you a time limit
on parking.
CEREMONY LOCATIONS
Weddings are not permitted in public facilities such as
visitor centers, roadside turnouts, parking areas, overlooks, or in special or
seasonal wildlife viewing areas. Endovalley Road and Upper Beaver Meadows will
accommodate small groups (15 or less). The Moraine Park Museum Amphitheater is
available for groups of 35 0r less. Lily Lake and the Harbison Meadows can both
accommodate groups less than 100.
No ceremony site will be reserved just for your
ceremony. Park events, programs and other organized activities may be
scheduled right next door. You may have to share your space.
OTHER REGULATIONS
Park visitor centers, restrooms, and other buildings may
not be used for wedding preparations such as dressing, picture-taking,
rehearsals, and waiting areas. These facilities cannot be used in the
event of inclement weather (everybody back to the car and wait 10 minutes). I
suggest that you rent or use someone’s RV for wardrobe, make-up, indoor potty
and a refuge if the weather wants to attend your wedding too. Facilities for
receptions and parties do not exist in the park. Do not bring alcoholic
beverages to your ceremony. Getting a ticket on your special day ruins the fun
for everyone.
Equipment such as tables, chairs, carpets, tents, awnings,
floral displays, signs, banners, flags, generators (remember the RV), and
amplifiers cannot be used in the park. There are facilities with electricity for
that RV. Throwing and scattering of rice, birdseed, flower petals, or other
materials is prohibited.
HOW DO I GET MY APPLICATION?
Finally, here’s how to get the application form. You can
call 970-586-1219 (get the answering machine, press 2 on your phone) or write to
Chief Ranger’s Office, RMNP, Estes Park, CO 80517 or go to
www.NPS.gov then click on the “Park and Recreation” box (lower left), then
click on “View all Parks A-Z,” then click on “R” in the alphabet, now click on
“Rocky Mountain National Park” then go to the rectangle in the upper right hand
corner and type in “wedding permits.” Now click on the “GO” button and you will
see the final sets of links you will need to download a permit application. Be
sure to fill in all areas or you will get it back to complete.
You may submit applications up to one year in advance. DO
NOT send payment with your application. Wait until the permit is issued and then
pay the fee given on the permit.
Best wishes
for your Wedding Day!
