All my friends and family will tell you I’m not a morning person. They’re not wrong.

BUT I’m a totally different person when it comes to a sunrise elopement. Maranda and Sam have an adventurous lifestyle and wanted to get married their own way, so we woke up at 3 a.m. for a sunrise Lake Isabelle elopement with their pup.

The Details

  • We spent the night before their elopement in Nederland, which is about a 30-minute drive from Lake Isabelle. This meant we got to sleep in a little bit longer, but coffee was still a necessity
  • It was super important to involve their dog in their special day. Lake Isabelle was the perfect spot since doggos are allowed, as long as they’re leashed
  • Because of Colorado’s badass self-solemnization rule, their pup signed their marriage license for them
  • These two spent intentional time getting ready together once we got to the trailhead and spent more time together with a sweet picnic after saying “I do”
  • A couple days after their elopement, they celebrated with their family at an intimate dinner in downtown Denver. They even hired me to stop by and take some pics!
  • This hybrid experience was exactly what Sam and Maranda wanted – intentional time together, but also dedicated time for celebrating with friends and family

Must Knows

  • The hike is about 5 miles round trip and fairly moderate, so I love recommending this spot for my couples who want to incorporate a hike into their elopement
  • During peak months, timed entry permits are required to enter the park. They can be hard to get since Lake Isabelle is a popular hike
  • I STRONGLY suggest a sunrise Lake Isabelle elopement. You 1.) don’t need a timed entry permit that early in the morning and 2.) you avoid the large crowds and have a more intimate setting with bae.

Vendors

A hike AND an elopement? I’m in!