If you’re planning a wedding day hike to your elopement location, can I just say, I’m already cheering you on! There’s something truly magical about starting your marriage in nature, surrounded by fresh air, golden light, and the kind of stillness that just doesn’t exist at a traditional venue. Whether it’s a short trail with an epic view or a sunrise summit with just the two of you, planning ahead will help your day feel effortless and memorable in all the best ways.
As a Denver elopement photographer, I’ve helped countless couples plan wedding day hikes across Colorado, and I’m here to walk you through the essentials, what to consider, what to pack, and how to make sure your elopement feels like the adventure of a lifetime.
Choose the Right Trail for Your Wedding Day Hike
The first step to planning a wedding day hike? Choosing a trail that aligns with your energy, comfort level, and vision for the day. Want a mellow walk to a mountain lake? Or are you dreaming of an early morning trek with vows at the summit? Think about the distance, elevation gain, trail conditions, and how easy it will be to carry your gear (or wedding attire) along the way.
When I work with couples as their Denver elopement photographer, I help match them with trails that are stunning and realistic for their timeline and vibe. You want to feel confident and at ease, not exhausted when it’s time to say “I do.”
Time It Right for the Best Light
Lighting can make all the difference on your wedding day hike. Sunrise hikes give you privacy, cooler temps, and magical golden light as you start your day. Sunset hikes offer a slower pace and warm evening glow, though you may be hiking back in the dark.
No matter what you choose, plan a flexible timeline with extra breathing room. The best moments on a trail often happen in between the planned ones.
Pack Smart (But Light)
Packing for your wedding day hike is all about balance. You’ll want to be prepared, but you don’t need to carry a full wedding wardrobe. Some couples hike in their wedding clothes, others change once they reach the top.
Here’s what I recommend for most wedding day hikes:
- Your wedding attire (if not wearing it on the hike)
- Comfortable hiking shoes or boots
- Daypack or hiking backpack
- Water and trail snacks
- Touch-up items (lipstick, hair pins, tissues, deodorant)
- Headlamps if you’re hiking early or late
- A small towel or changing mat
- Vow books, rings, and marriage license
- A lightweight bouquet, if you’re bringing one
As your Denver elopement photographer, I can also help carry a few essentials and make sure your dress, hair, or details stay photo-ready during the adventure.
Think Through Who’s Coming With You on Your Wedding Day Hike
One of the perks of a wedding day hike is that it can be just the two of you, or include a few close guests who are up for the trek. Be realistic about the trail’s difficulty and whether your guests can comfortably make it. The goal is to create an intimate and joyful experience, not stressful.
If you want to include more loved ones who can’t make the hike, plan a second gathering or celebration where everyone can join, like a dinner party, mountaintop picnic, or post-elopement reception.
Don’t Forget the “After”
After your ceremony and photos, what comes next? Whether you’re hiking down to a private dinner, enjoying a mountaintop picnic, or heading to a hot spring soak and a cozy Airbnb, think about how you want to end your day. Your wedding day hike is about more than the hike itself, it’s a full experience. Build in time for slow moments, reflection, and whatever feels celebratory to you.
Your wedding day hike is a chance to start your marriage in motion, step by step, surrounded by beauty, intention, and each other. With a little preparation and a thoughtful plan, it can be one of the most meaningful and memorable days of your life.
As a Denver elopement photographer who loves hiking just as much as I love photographing emotion-filled love stories, I’d be honored to help guide your day from the trailhead to “I do.”
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