If you imagine exchanging vows surrounded by sun-warmed dunes, wild mountain backdrops, a Great Sand Dunes National Park elopement could be for you. The Sand Dunes is an experience crafted for couples who crave raw emotion and adventure over formality. As a documentary Colorado adventure elopement photographer, I specialize in capturing real moments in stunning Colorado settings—allowing your love story to unfold naturally against the backdrop of golden dunes and rugged mountains. If you imagine exchanging vows with just the wind and endless sand as your witnesses, a great sand dunes national park elopement brings that vision to life.
How to Elope at Great Sand Dunes National Park
- Permits: All elopements and ceremonies in the park require a Special Use Permit. Apply directly through the National Park Service, ideally as early as possible; applications open January 1 of your elopement year and are processed on a first-come, first-served basis. The current permit fee is $200. Your location is public—no ceremony site is fully private—and ceremonies are limited to two hours.
- Marriage License: You’ll need a Colorado marriage license, which you can get at any County Clerk’s office. Colorado allows self-solemnization, so you don’t need an officiant or witnesses—ideal for intimate, adventurous elopements.
- Park Rules: Tables, chairs, tents, arches (outside the amphitheater), décor, and confetti are prohibited in the backcountry and on the dunes. Keep music low and embrace leave-no-trace principles to protect the fragile landscape.
Best Elopement Locations in Great Sand Dunes National Park
- Main Dunefield: Hike up the iconic dunes for dramatic, 360° ceremony views; sunrise or sunset provides privacy and golden light. Expect a strenuous hike if you want a top-of-the-dunes ceremony.
- Medano Creek: In spring and early summer, this ephemeral creek flows at the base of the dunes; wade, splash, or exchange vows barefoot for uniquely playful photos.
- The Island (Cottonwood Grove): A small grove on a sandbar with bright green leaves in spring or golden cottonwoods in fall; an easy walk, but expect a few visitors.
- Grasslands & Low Dunes: If you want easier access, privacy, and great variety for photos, these foothills and grassy areas beyond the creek are a favorite for many couples.
- Picnic Areas & Offroad Spots: With a 4WD vehicle, secluded picnic areas like Sand Pit or Castle Creek offer privacy and differing dune perspectives (do not attempt in a standard rental car).
What to Wear for a Great Sand Dunes National Park Elopement
- Footwear: Easy-off shoes or sandals for crossing the creek, sturdy shoes for hiking the dunes. Barefoot is popular on the soft sand (bring a towel to brush off after).
- Clothing: Lightweight, flowing attire catches the wind beautifully on the dunes. Plan for layers—mornings and evenings are cool, while midday can be hot.
- Extras: Bring sunglasses, a hat, and a windproof outer layer. Dune sand reflects sunlight and can be harsh on bare skin.
- Colors: Earth tones, neutrals, or soft pastels look beautiful against the golden sand and blue sky.
What to Pack for Your Elopement
- Water, snacks, and sunscreen—the sand and altitude can dehydrate you quickly.
- Extra layers for chilly mornings or brisk winds.
- A blanket for sitting or an impromptu picnic.
- Wet wipes or a brush for sand cleanup.
- Headlamp or flashlight if planning sunset or nighttime photos.
- Any emotional items (letters, mementos, vow books—just leave out confetti and décor).
- Your marriage license and valid ID.
- Your America The Beautiful card (or money for entry fee)
Other Things to Do Near Great Sand Dunes National Park
Your elopement can easily expand into a full adventure, thanks to the area’s variety of activities and landscapes. Here are some ideas to help you plan an unforgettable experience:
Alamosa: Your Local Base
Alamosa is the closest town, offering cozy accommodations, restaurants, breweries, and local shops—plus easy access to the dunes. It’s a great launchpad for early-morning starts or relaxed evenings after a day outdoors.
Chase a Waterfall: Nearby Cool Contrast
Just a short drive from the dunes, a hike to a hidden alpine waterfall adds a striking twist to your day. The rushing water and mossy rocks create a dramatic contrast with the sandy landscape and work beautifully for intimate, documentary-style portraits—perfect for couples wanting variety in their elopement gallery.
Offroad Trails: Explore Beyond the Dunes
For couples up for adventure, the park and surrounding areas include several 4WD and off-road routes—like the Medano Pass Primitive Road—where you can experience solitude, alpine forests, and even river crossings. It’s an opportunity for candid, wind-in-your-hair photos in wild places most visitors never see.
The possibilities for fun and meaningful experiences here are endless and all contribute to a more personal, unforgettable elopement day.
Fun Things to Do on Your Great Sand Dunes National Park Elopement
Beyond exchanging vows, your elopement day can be filled with memorable activities that make your experience extra special. At Great Sand Dunes National Park, you can rent sandboards right near the dunes to try thrilling sand sledding — a joyful, playful way to connect with the landscape. It’s a unique adventure that brings out smiles and laughter, perfect for candid documentary photos. You can rent sandboards and sandsleds near Great Sand Dunes National Park at several locations:
- Spindrift Sandboards in Blanca, CO (about 25 miles southeast of the park entrance). They offer high-quality rentals with helpful instruction and are open daily during the season (8 AM to 6 PM). They recommend reserving in advance to ensure availability.
- Oasis Store, located 4 miles from the Great Sand Dunes Visitor Center near the park entrance, rents sandboards and sleds March through October.
- Kristi Mountain Sports in Alamosa (about 35 miles southwest of the park) rents sandboards and sleds year-round, but you should call ahead to reserve.
Additional rental locations include Sand Dunes Swimming Pool and Recreation near Hooper and Spanish Peaks Outfitters in La Veta. Most rentals cost around $20 per day. It’s best to book ahead, especially in peak season. Locations often provide wax and some instruction to get you ready to ride. Renting at Blanca or the Oasis Store is convenient since they are near the park entrance.
Another wonderful perk? The park is dog-friendly! You’re welcome to bring your furry friend along (leashed, of course) to share in your celebration and explore this wild, beautiful place together. Including your dog can add even more genuine moments to your elopement story — from sandy paws to joyful running on the dunes.
Meet me, Brooke, your Great Sand Dunes National Park Elopement photographer
Best Time of Year for a Great Sand Dunes National Park Elopement
- Spring (May–June): Medano Creek is typically flowing, perfect for playful, unique photos.
- Summer/Fall: Fewer crowds; sunset provides softer light and cooler temps. Fall brings golden trees around the dunes.
- Sunrise or Sunset: These times offer better light, privacy, and milder temperatures for comfort and photography.
Your Great Sand Dunes Elopement, Your Way
A Great Sand Dunes National Park elopement is more than just a ceremony with a view—it’s a fully immersive, adventurous, and personal celebration of your love story. As your documentary adventure elopement photographer, I’ll guide you through sandy trails, alpine streams, and all the “wow, this is real” moments—capturing the honest, unscripted beauty of your day. If you’re ready to start planning your great sand dunes national park elopement, reach out and let’s create an experience that’s as wild and genuine as you are.
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