The Ultimate Dream Lake Elopement Guide
Dream Lake Elopement Guide
For couples seeking a remote alpine lake that isn’t too difficult of a hike, a Dream Lake elopement is hard to beat. Just as its name suggests, Dream Lake feels like something out of a fairytale — a breathtaking alpine lake cradled at 9,905 feet in Rocky Mountain National Park. With pine forests wrapping around its shores and the dramatic cliffs of Hallett Peak towering above, this spot feels like the heart of the Rockies. Sunrise and sunset here are especially enchanting when the alpenglow sets the mountains ablaze and reflects across the glassy water.
This Dream Lake Elopement Guide includes everything you need to know to plan your big adventure — from permits and ceremony sites to the hike itself, the best seasons to visit, and, of course, inspiration for stunning Dream Lake elopement photos.
Dream Lake Elopement Permits
Here’s the catch: you can’t actually have your wedding ceremony at Dream Lake itself. The National Park requires all ceremonies to be held at one of the 13 designated wedding sites. However, you can still hike to Dream Lake for portraits before or after your ceremony, which makes for the perfect adventure add-on to your elopement.
Keep in mind:
- Dream Lake is a popular trail, so we recommend keeping your group very small (ideally just the two of you and your photographers).
- Trails are narrow, and the shoreline is limited, which makes it better for quiet elopement photos rather than group gatherings.
- A $15 day-use pass is required to enter the park and a timed entry pass is required to access the trailhead parking at Bear Lake from May – October.
✨ If you book one of our Dream Lake elopement packages, we’ll obtain your permit for you so that you don’t have to spend your time with that.
Where to Have Your Ceremony
For a Dream Lake elopement, the best ceremony sites are the ones closest to Bear Lake Road. This makes it quick & easy to hike up for portraits afterward.
- Bear Lake – Located right at the trailhead to Dream Lake, this is the most convenient option. Note that it’s only available during cooler months.
- Sprague Lake – A favorite ceremony site with its own picturesque wooden dock, accessible trails, and wide-open mountain views.
- 3M Curve – Iconic rocky outcrop with sweeping valley views.
- Hidden Valley – A peaceful meadow setting surrounded by forested hillsides.
Each of these ceremony sites requires a reservation through Rocky Mountain National Park. Permits book up fast, so plan ahead!
Hiking Dream Lake Trail
The hike to Dream Lake is a 2-mile round trip with about 459 feet of elevation gain. It’s considered easy to moderate, but don’t underestimate it — at nearly 10,000 feet above sea level, the thinner air can make it feel tougher.
The trail starts at Bear Lake and winds through pine forests, with several overlooks along the way. You’ll pass Nymph Lake, continue to Dream Lake itself, and if you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can hike farther to Emerald Lake or Lake Haiyaha.
Tips for your Dream Lake hike:
- Go at sunrise or sunset for fewer crowds and the best light.
- In winter, bring snowshoes or micro-spikes as the trail is snowy and icy.
- Always stay on the trail and respect restoration areas.
- Never feed wildlife
Dream Lake Elopement Rules
To protect this fragile alpine environment, couples must follow all Rocky Mountain National Park rules and Leave No Trace principles:
- No ceremonies at Dream Lake (photos only).
- Stay on trails and do not cross restoration barriers.
- No amplified music, flower petals, confetti, rice, seeds, or bubbles.
- No pets allowed.
- Pack out everything you bring in.
Best Time To Visit Dream Lake
Dream Lake is beautiful year-round — the “best” time really depends on the experience you want to have.
- Spring – still pretty snowy with icy trails. The lake is likely to be partially frozen well into June.
- Summer – Clear trails, green pines, wildflowers, and stunning reflections in the lake. Summer is also the busiest season, so plan for sunrise to avoid crowds.
- Fall – Golden aspens line the trail, with crisp air and quieter mornings. Higher chances of snow and freezing waters begin in late October.
- Winter – The lake will freeze completely, creating unique photo opportunities with snow-covered peaks and ice textures. Snowshoes are a must.
Dream Lake Elopement Photos
This is one of the most photographed lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park — and for good reason. Whether you’re walking hand-in-hand along the frozen shoreline in winter, gazing into the mirror-like reflections of summer, or standing under glowing autumn aspens, your Dream Lake elopement photos will be nothing short of memorable & magical!
We’ll help you time the best lighting, navigate the hike, and find quiet corners throughout to make your portraits feel personal and intimate.
Dream Lake Elopement Packages
If the idea of exchanging vows nearby and hiking up to Dream Lake for photos makes your heart race, we’ve got you covered. Our Dream Lake elopement packages are designed to give you a stress-free, unforgettable experience.
With nearly a decade of experience, we’ll:
- Secure necessary permits for you
- Recommend trusted local vendors
- Build a personalized & efficient timeline
- Capture every breathtaking moment in photo & story
Your only job? To soak in the beauty, adventure, and intimacy of your Dream Lake elopement.
👉 Ready to plan your Dream Lake adventure? Let’s connect and start dreaming together!
