Echo Lake Sunrise Elopement with Maya & Daniel
Maya and Daniel had the most beautiful intimate morning surrounded by nature for their sunrise elopement at Echo Lake. Echo Lake is located right outside of Idaho Springs, Colorado. The morning was so perfect. Their day started by waking up and getting ready at the gorgeous and cozy Flying Moon Cabins. I highly recommend you consider a cabin or an Airbnb to wake up in on the day of your elopement! There is something so unique about waking up with just the person you are about to marry on your wedding or elopement day at a secluded location. You can have breakfast or coffee together and simply enjoy the morning before getting ready.
After Maya and Daniel got ready, they packed up what they needed for their elopement and headed to Echo Lake. Upon arriving at Echo Lake they were greeted by fog over the water with sun peeking through the tree-covered mountains in the background. This was the most breathtaking backdrop for Maya and Daniel to share their vows. Adding to the scenery, the most beautiful weather was around for their sunrise elopement. They chose to elope in August which was perfect considering the weather in Colorado can be cold if you go anytime other than Summer!
The absolute sweetest highlight of Maya and Daniel’s day was after they got done reading their vows, a couple of ducks swam up in the water and greeted the couple. It is so special when candid moments happen especially with wildlife. This was something they can look back on forever! It is always a pleasure to capture authentic and real moments that show how much a couple loves one another.
Why Should You Elope At Echo Lake?
Echo Lake in Colorado offers a stunning backdrop for your elopement. Here are two great reasons why I think you should elope at Echo Lake:
Breathtaking Mountain Views
Echo Lake is nestled in the majestic Rocky Mountains, providing stunning views everywhere you look! The snow-capped peaks, serene alpine lakes, and dense forests create a setting that is truly the best background for a mountain elopement. Whether you choose to exchange vows against the backdrop of the glistening lake or within the mountains, Echo Lake offers a natural beauty that is hard to match.
Accessibility and Convenience
One of the advantages of eloping at Echo Lake is its accessibility. Located just off the road, it is easily reachable, making it a convenient choice for your elopement! Echo Lake is in close proximity to Denver and Idaho Springs. Being close to bigger cities allows for a quick trip to nature without having to travel super long distances. Additionally, Echo Lake provides so many different spots for couples to choose from, ensuring that you can find the perfect location for your intimate ceremony!
What time of year should you elope at Echo Lake?
Summer Months:
If you’re planning to elope at Echo Lake in Colorado, it’s important to consider the best time of year for your special day! Echo Lake is known for its stunning natural beauty and picturesque surroundings. Choosing the right season can greatly enhance your elopement experience. One time I recommend eloping at Echo Lake is during the summer months, from June to August. During this time, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from the 70s to 80s Fahrenheit. In addition, the greenery on the mountains and blooming wildflowers can create such a vibrant backdrop for your vows or ceremony, making it a perfect choice if you appreciate the beauty of nature.
Fall Months:
Another great time to elope at Echo Lake is during the fall season, think September and October. When leaves change, the scenery transforms into breathtaking colors of red, orange, and gold. The cooler temperatures can give a cozy and intimate atmosphere to your elopement, while the reflections of the leaves on the lake’s surface add to your photos. Fall also offers the advantage of fewer crowds of people compared to the summer months, allowing you to enjoy a more private and serene elopement in the mountains.
What are some activities to do near Echo Lake?
There are plenty of activities you can enjoy at or near Echo Lake, Colorado! Here are some of my suggestions:
- Hiking: Explore the beautiful hiking trails around Echo Lake and take in some views of Mt. Evans.
- Fishing: Enjoy trout fishing along the shoreline of Echo Lake. It’s a great spot to relax and add to your elopement location.
- Picnicking: Pack a picnic and enjoy a meal at Echo Lake! I highly suggest my couples add this to their elopement timeline. Sharing a meal together can make for such a special moment, like you would a traditional wedding!
- Wildlife Viewing: A great opportunity for nature enthusiasts is to keep an eye out for wildlife such as birds and other animals that call Echo Lake their home! You may even have ducks join you on your elopement day like Maya and Daniel did!
- Camping: Set up camp at one of the nearby campgrounds and spend a night under the stars. It’s a wonderful way to include yourself in the natural beauty of the area.
- Horseback Riding: Embark on a horseback riding adventure and explore the trails surrounding Echo Lake. It’s a unique way to experience the mountains and outdoors in Colorado.
Always remember to check local regulations and guidelines before engaging in any activities, and leave no trace. These are some perfect examples of how to make a weekend out of your elopement at Echo Lake!
Where should you stay at Echo Lake?
If you are looking to stay near Echo Lake in Colorado or in Idaho Springs here are some of my recommendations:
Flying Moon Cabins
Maya and Daniel chose to stay and get ready at the Flying Moon Cabins. I highly recommend this location to any couple! The Flying Moon cabins are a cozy and rustic retreat since they are right in the heart of nature. The Flying Moon cabins are located just 10 minutes away from Idaho Springs, Colorado which is close enough to the city if you need something quick! It is also far enough away to have privacy and seclusion for your elopement. If you want a creekside cabin with a vintage feel including all the modern amenities, certainly this might be the place for you! Check out an elopement I previously captured where the couple stayed at the Flying Moon Cabins.
Airbnb & Hotels
If you are wanting a more traditional or bigger place to stay and get ready for your elopement day I suggest looking into an Airbnb or Vrbo. There are many options that can accommodate you and your guests if you so choose to bring them along! Some couples choose to have their family stay with them in an Airbnb. Some choose to stay separately in a hotel, while still being together. Whether you want to be in Idaho Springs, or out in nature, there is sure to be something perfect for you on your elopement day.
How do you get to Echo Lake?
Getting to Echo Lake can be so simple if you have a plan! I would recommend you fly into Denver and get a rental car. Traveling from Denver, you have around 40 miles to drive if you are heading straight to Echo Lake. The drive to Echo Lake is full of scenery in the Rocky Mountains. Make sure to drive with caution as there are windy roads and you may encounter wildlife along the way!
As you pull up to Echo Lake on a paved road there is parking available, and you wouldn’t need a special vehicle to get there. Off the road there is a short trail to get directly to the lake. Additionally, there are so many other trails to explore in this area if you are wanting to really be in nature and see different views of and around Echo Lake.
Are You Ready to Make Echo Lake your Elopement Spot?
Overall, Maya and Daniel’s morning at Echo Lake in Colorado was a jaw dropping setting for anyone looking to elope. With its easy accessibility and numerous activities nearby, Echo Lake offers the perfect backdrop for a memorable elopement or intimate wedding. The natural beauty will make it a perfect choice for those of you seeking intimacy and privacy on your special day. Whether you dream of a sunrise elopement or a lakeside celebration, Echo Lake can create your memories to last a lifetime.
If you are ready to book your mountain elopement at Echo Lake contact me today for your free consult call, and let’s start putting together your magical day!
