3M Curve at Rocky Mountain National Park is my favorite of the approved wedding and elopement ceremony spots. This spot is found off Trail Ridge Road (which can be closed during the Winter and due to inclement weather. It usually opens around June and closes in October). However, the portion of Trail Ridge Road is almost always open and plowed during the Winter, making this an accessible wedding spot no matter the time of year. This site features gorgeous views of Longs Peak and feels more private than other ceremony sites in the park.
Are you looking for a photographer to take your wedding photos at 3M Curve in Rocky Mountain National Park? Send me a message! I’d love to chat about your vision!
How to have a 3M Curve wedding or elopement
Getting a permit for a 3M Curve wedding
- Email romo_fees_permits@nps.gov to inquire about your date and availability.
- Fill out an application, application found here and pay your $300 non-refundable booking fee.
- Send completed application to the above email.
- Sign and print your completed permit. You must have your permit with you at all times.
How to get to 3M Curve
3M Curve does not show up directly on maps, so you’ll want to input the coordinates 40°22’50.3″N 105°36’13.3″W. This wedding location is off of Highway 36 about 10 minutes past the main RMNP ticket entrance. There are only 10 parking spots available, but you are only allowed 3 cars (so plan ahead and carpool or hire transportation)
What is the best time for a 3M Curve wedding?
As with all locations in RMNP, 3M Curve can be busy on the weekends. For that reason, I highly recommend eloping or reserving for a weekday or aiming for a sunrise reservation! However, 3M Curve is more private than some other ceremony spots (like Sprague Lake or Lily Lake) so even if there are people hiking around, it is more secluded. This spot looks absolutely gorgeous at sunrise or the hour before sunset. There is not much shade so the lighting can be quite harsh during the day.
How accessible is 3M Curve?
Highway 36 up to 3M Curve is usually well maintained and plowed in the winter, but the path and trail to the elopement spot is not. So if you’re eloping in the winter you might have to trek through some snow. The path to the spot is at a slight incline downhill with some rocks. It takes about 5-10 minutes to walk there and is pretty accessible. Wheelchairs and strollers might have some issues though.
Is 3M Curve a private elopement spot?
3M Curve is definitely more private than other locations due to the trees and small walk down from the main street. However, it is still a super popular location and I’d be prepared to not be completely alone unless you choose a sunrise weekday reservation. In my experience, folks will see you before you see them and usually turn to leave once they see a wedding is happening.
Recent Rocky Mountain Park updates
Weddings for 2021
As of January of 2021, Rocky Mountain has issued all of its 250 available 2021 wedding permits. If you are looking to elope at Rocky Mountain this year (2021) that unfortunately doesn’t look like a possibility. However, there is the option of getting legally married outside the park (at an equally gorgeous location) and then entering the park for portraits.
Weddings for 2022
May-October 60 permits per month will be issued.
November – April 40 permits per month will be issued.
As of June 1, 2021, Rocky Mountain National Park will resume issuing permits a year in advance on that wedding month. (Ex: October 2021 you can be issued your October 2022 permit).
If you are wanting to elope at RMNP I highly recommend getting your permit as soon as possible. The number of permits is extremely limited and they will go quickly.
Update for 2025 weddings
Fall of 2025 is officially booked up as of March 2025. There are still a few remaining off season dates– so definitely reach out asap!
Reception Venues near 3M Curve
Wondering what to do after your 3M curve wedding celebration? Luckily the town of Estes Park is just a short drive away and has plenty of wonderful spots to keep the party going. Whether you’re planning a small elopement or micro-wedding in Estes Park and want a reception space that feels more like a cozy dinner party than a full-blown ballroom bash, this list is for you.
Nest Above
Website: nestaboveestespark.com
Location: 1221 High Dr, Estes Park, CO 80517
Vibe: Elevated, intimate, private dining
Capacity: Up to 70 guests
Price Range: Varies based on custom menu and event size
Nest Above is a tucked-away gem offering private events with sweeping mountain views and high-end, seasonal cuisine. It’s ideal for elopement receptions, rehearsal dinners, or even a dreamy farewell brunch. Think chic mountain lodge meets chef-curated menu.
Crag’s Lodge
Website: cragslodge.com
Location: 300 Riverside Dr, Estes Park, CO 80517
Vibe: Historic lodge with rustic charm
Capacity: Up to 150 guests
Price Range: Moderate to high, depending on setup and guest count
Perched above Estes with unbeatable views, Crag’s Lodge brings that classic mountain lodge ambiance. While it can host larger events, it’s still a great option for cozy, elegant receptions with a vintage touch.
Bristlecone Inn
Website: bristleconeinn.com
Location: 215 Virginia Dr, Estes Park, CO 80517
Vibe: Quaint, romantic, personalized
Best For: Micro weddings and intimate gatherings
Price Range: Moderate
This charming inn specializes in elopements and micro weddings. With on-site catering, warm hospitality, and a sweet garden setting, Bristlecone Inn feels more like a private dinner at a friend’s beautiful mountain home.
View a wedding reception at Bristlecone Inn
Bird & Jim
Website: birdandjim.com
Location: 915 Moraine Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517
Vibe: Trendy, mountain-modern eatery
Capacity: Ideal for small groups
Price Range: $30–50 per person
Bird & Jim is a local favorite for a reason. With a focus on Colorado-sourced, seasonal food and craft cocktails, this spot is ideal for foodie couples who want a stylish reception with a laid-back, modern feel.
Ed’s Cantina
Location: Estes Park, CO 80517
Vibe: Chill, riverside, casual
Capacity: Small groups
Price Range: $20–35 per person
Ed’s Cantina offers a private upstairs room overlooking the river—perfect for relaxed post-ceremony hangs with tacos, margaritas, and your favorite people. It’s fun, unfussy, and right in the heart of downtown.
The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern
Website: rockinnestes.com
Location: 1675 CO-66, Estes Park, CO 80517
Vibe: Rustic tavern with live music
Capacity: Small to mid-sized groups
Price Range: $20–30 per person
Want a cozy, Colorado-style celebration? The Rock Inn has cabin vibes, hearty food, and often live music—great for couples who want something laid-back yet totally memorable.
The Wheel Bar
Website: thewheelbar.com
Location: 132 E Elkhorn Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517
Vibe: Casual, local, relaxed
Capacity: Up to 50 guests (private upstairs room)
Price Range: Budget-friendly
One of the oldest establishments in Estes Park, The Wheel Bar offers a private upstairs space that’s great for a casual celebration. Toast your new life together with a Colorado craft beer in hand.
Meet Leah- Colorado wedding photographer
Hey there! I hope you enjoyed this post all about eloping at 3M Curve! Rocky Mountain weddings are some of my favorite things to photograph. If you love colorful, energetic and authentic photos, send me a message! I’d love to chat with you about your 3M Curve wedding!
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