The Best Places to Propose in Colorado for a Romantic Moment

Do you want to embark on a journey to declare your everlasting love against the breathtaking backdrop of the Rocky Mountains and the great outdoors? Yes, please. The best places to propose in Colorado take romance and intertwine the vibe with stunning landscapes. From alpine lakes reflecting the sunset to majestic peaks reaching the sky, there is no shortage of places to declare your love.

We spoke with McCory James, the owner of Wanderlight Wedding Photography, for some insight into the best places to pop the question in the Centennial State. With over 20 years of experience as a wedding photographer, he helped narrow down the top proposal spots in Colorado. One of these is sure to be the perfect location to start you off on the right foot.

In this story:

• How to Decide Where to Propose in Colorado
• The Best Time of the Year to Propose in Colorado
• Romantic Places to Propose in Colorado
• Beautiful Places to Propose in Colorado
• Private Places to Propose in Colorado

How to Decide Where to Propose in Colorado

You might think deciding where to propose in Colorado is challenging because everywhere you look there are stunning views, cascading mountains and glistening lakes screaming romance and beauty. But the owner of Wanderlight Wedding Photography, McCory James, believes the abundance of choice makes the decision easy. Because the beauty of Colorado is everywhere you look, it's not hard to find a great location to pop the question.

If there is a spot that holds special meaning to you both, that's definitely a way to go. Otherwise, make a fresh memory in someplace new by choosing a place with a backdrop you'd like to see in your proposal pictures. That can help narrow your choices and whittle down your checklist. To tick more things off your list and gather a team to help pull your proposal ideas together, consult The Knot Vendor Marketplace.

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The Best Time of the Year to Propose in Colorado

Colorado is lovely year-round, with budding trees and flowers in the spring and romantic falling snow in the winter. Summers are great too because the temperatures are mind in the mountains, making the hike to your destination pleasurable. James suggested that couples use the scenery to decide the best time of year to propose in Colorado. Those who love crisp air and snow might want to choose winter or fall, while others who enjoy flowers and greenery lakeside might opt for spring or summer. Using a proposal planner and mapping out your choices can help you organize your thoughts and make the moment perfect.

Romantic Places to Propose in Colorado

Love will already be in the crisp Colorado air during your proposal, but a romantic spot to pop the question will boost your moment to a whole other level. Consider planning your Colorado proposal at one of these unique locations. Make sure your proposal photographer is on board with your plan so they can get the best shots.

The Little Nell

The Little Nell is a luxury five-star hotel in Aspen, Colorado, with ski-in/ski-out access to the stunning Aspen Mountain. Whether you pop the question on the slopes, in the cozy tavern or on the rooftop terrace, The Little Nell is a perfect place to propose and celebrate your love.

Garden of the Gods

Garden of the Gods is a public park in Colorado Springs that features stunning red rock formations against the backdrop of snow-capped Pikes Peak. The venue also has a pool to reflect the beauty all around. What could be a more romantic place for your proposal? Just imagine the pictures.

Pikes Peak

Pikes Peak is a majestic 14,115-foot mountain that offers breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and Colorado Springs. While the backdrop is second to none, the journey is just as important—much like your upcoming marriage. Either drive, hike, bike or take the cog railway to the top and drink it all in.

Royal Gorge Bridge

Romance fills the air at the Royal Gorge, a deep canyon carved by the Arkansas River. The Royal Gorge Bridge spans the chasm 956 feet in the air. If you and your intended are not afraid of heights, walk the bridge and choose the perfect place to bend your knee and ask for their hand.

Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse

Those looking for a serene and cozy atmosphere will want to consider the Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse for their romantic Colorado proposal. This stunning and unique venue was handcrafted in Tajikistan and gifted to Boulder. The architecture, ceramic panels and intricate artwork set the scene for your once-in-a-lifetime moment.

Beautiful Places to Propose in Colorado

There's no shortage of beauty in the Centennial State, so choosing a beautiful place to propose should be a snap. These locations will encapsulate the beauty of the state, serving as a lovely backdrop for your special moment. Photographer McCory James offered one tip for those hiking for their proposal: Be sure your intended is picture-ready! They will thank you later when sharing your proposal pics.

Sapphire Point

Sapphire Point in Breckenridge is a stunning overlook, giving a panoramic view of the sparkling Dillon Reservoir and the majestic peaks of the Gore and Tenmile mountain ranges. The location was the first spot James mentioned, saying the point was a popular Colorado proposal spot.

Maroon Bells

Maroon Bells are a pair of majestic peaks that rise thousands of feet in the Elk Mountains near Aspen. As one of the most beautiful places to propose in Colorado, they offer stunning views of the red rock formations and the reflective Maroon Lake. A fall proposal will also add the golden aspen groves to your backdrop.

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater

The Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater makes the list because of its wondrous views, exciting concerts and hiking trails. This location has a world-famous venue and unique spaces, giving you a chance to admire the natural red rock formations as you share this special moment with your partner.

Echo Mountain

If you ski as a couple, consider proposing at Echo Mountain. This location is a ski resort near Denver and is one of the most beautiful places to propose. At an elevation of over 10,500 feet with the Rocky Mountains and Continental Divide at your back, this spot is unforgettable. Consider asking for their hand underneath a starry sky or during a live musical performance at the lodge.

Paint Mines

There is no shortage of beautiful places to propose in Colorado, but this one is truly unique. Your proposal photographer will surely snap some stunning photos if you choose to bend your knee at the paint mines just outside Colorado Springs. The mines are part of the Paint Mines Interpretive Park, featuring colorful clay formations and hoodoos shaped by erosion over thousands of years.

The Coloradan

If you're looking for a more urban vibe, The Coloradan might be the perfect location for you. The newly renovated Denver spot offers an incredible rooftop with panoramic views of the Mile-High City. Enjoy the sunset and the lights in the town down below as you ask your partner to walk through the rest of forever with you.

Private Places to Propose in Colorado

Not everyone wants to pop the question in front of a crowd, and we get that. Here are some proposal spots in Colorado where you can still capture the atmosphere of the state while keeping your moment a bit more private. Ask the venues ahead of time about any proposal packages they may offer.

Granby Ranch

If you want to feel like you're on top of the world, the Granby Ranch might be the perfect place. The resort is in the heart of the Rocky Mountains and is pure magic. Take a romantic chairlift to the peak and gaze over the postcard-worthy landscape as you pop the question your partner is likely dying to hear.

Emerald Lake

Located in Rocky Mountain National Park, Emerald Lake offers a private proposal setting with stunning views of not only the alpine lake but also the surrounding peaks. The hike isn't too strenuous and is lovely any time of year. It's easy to find a secluded spot along the trail for just the two of you, like Nymph Lake, filled with lily pads, or Dream Lake, with views of Hallett Peak.

Clock Tower Events

While James said there are plenty of places in Colorado where you could steal away for a private proposal, he said the Clock Tower stands out from the rest. The historic D&F Tower and winding staircase give this spot a fairy-tale feel. The venue has five floors to choose from and multiple balconies with spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains and Denver skyline—a memorable place to start your marital journey.

Piney River Ranch

Along the shore of a pristine alpine lake in Vale sits a secluded mountain paradise called Piney River Ranch. The Gore Range serves as a backdrop for this rustic location. James suggested that happy couples time their proposals around the background they desire. Early in the year gives you blooming flowers and melting snow, while later delivers a blanket of fall colors.

The Stanley Hotel

Stephen King fans might think the Stanley Hotel looks familiar. He used the stately building as his inspiration for The Shining. Don't worry, this one isn't haunted. Consider booking the Sunrise Suite, which has a fireplace and private balcony overlooking the Rocky Mountains and Lake Estes. The venue could mark the perfect start to your new life together.