Rocky Mountain National Park, especially Dream Lake, is one of my absolute favorite engagement session locations in Colorado. So when Amy and Rico told me they wanted a session that showcases the forest-y, mountain vibes they love – I knew exactly which spot to recommend!
Their day was filled with laughter, joy, and the stunning backdrop of the Rockies. We hiked, chatted about their wedding plans, and enjoyed the natural beauty surrounding us. One of the most memorable moments was waiting out an afternoon rain storm under the coverage of a few trees and our umbrellas. Even with the downpour, they couldn’t stop laughing and saying how much fun they were having. They truly are best friends and in this post I’ll be sharing all about Amy and Rico’s adventurous Dream Lake engagement photos.
Where We Captured Their Dream Lake Engagement Photos
The hike to Dream Lake starts at Bear Lake and, while not too long, does have a moderately steep beginning. The view at Dream Lake is absolutely iconic, and I love the adventure the hike adds to your session here! The elevation can lead to quickly changing weather, so it’s important to come prepared. Plus, the layers and outfit changes will bring more versatility to your final images, just like they did for Amy & Rico! I always recommend bringing waterproof gear like boots, rain coats, and umbrellas.
The hike to Dream Lake is 2.2 miles out and back. Once you’ve parked, make your way to the west end of the Bear Lake parking lot. The trailhead is located to the right of the ranger station at the bridge, beginning at an elevation of 9,475 feet.
Tips for Planning Your Dream Lake Rocky Mountain National Park Engagement Session
- Footwear: Bring hiking shoes for the trek and change into your session shoes at the lake.
- Layers: The weather can be unpredictable even on seemingly sunny days, especially in the mountains. It gets windy here a lot, and during summer afternoon rain showers are really common especially between 2-5pm.
- Essentials: Water and snacks are a must! Stay hydrated and keep your energy up for the hike.
- Restrooms and Changing: Restrooms are available at the trailhead, but you’ll need to change clothes on the trail, so plan your layers accordingly.
- Acclimation: Give yourself a day or two to get used to the elevation before attempting the hike.
Dream Lake Engagement Photo Permits
From May to October, you’ll need a timed entry permit for Rocky Mountain National Park. It’s $2 per vehicle and can be secured online ahead of time. For this hike, you need the Bear Lake Corridor option.
You’ll also need an RMNP or America the Beautiful Parks Admission Pass, which you can get here!
Your photographer doesn’t need to get a photography permit to capture your engagement session here, however, they would need one for an elopement or wedding ceremony. Sadly, ceremonies aren’t allowed at Dream Lake, but you can read my comprehensive guide about how to get married in Rocky Mountain National Park here.
You can read more about RMNP photography permits here.
Amy & Rico’s Colorado Wedding Package
Amy and Rico chose a custom 7-hour package, which includes two photographers and an engagement session.
Their wedding venue coordinator sent them my information and once they inquired, we had a 30 minute Zoom meeting for their initial wedding consultation and instantly felt like we were long lost friends. It’s super important that you find a wedding photographer you feel comfortable with and that’s exactly what this initial consultation is for. I cannot wait to capture Amy and Rico’s wedding day this fall at Venue on The Rocks in Estes Park!
Once they booked, I shared my engagement session questionnaire to learn what they were envisioning and when they needed their photos. Then, we we had another consultation where I pulled up galleries and locations to show them and they loved Dream Lake the most! It’s definitely one of the most gorgeous backdrops in the Rocky Mountains, so I was extra excited.
My engagement sessions, included in my full day wedding packages, include up to 4 hours of coverage, providing ample time to explore and capture ALL the beautiful moments. You also receive my client exclusive guides and resources to help you prepare for your session! Plus, I’m available via phone or email to answer any questions and help you choose your outfits, sentimental details, and more.
Here are some kind words from another Dream Lake engagement session!
Client Testimonial
“I couldn’t recommend Logan & Mrs. Ferree Photography more!! She captured our Dream Lake engagement photos and our wedding, and not only is the final product SOOO good, the experience from start to finish was really special. She helped my husband and I feel so comfortable, and because of that, our pictures capture our personality and love for one another so well! Our wedding was the best day of our lives, and our photo gallery brings us back to moments that we never want to forget.
During engagement pictures, Logan hiked up to a lake in Estes Park to capture our mountain dreams, and for the wedding, she had fun prompts, great organization, and pre-selected photo spots to make the day seamless. Logan really goes above and beyond to make her clients feel loved, heard and celebrated. She’s the BEST hype girl, but also gave me and my husband quiet moments to just soak in the day. And as a cherry on top, Logan is so quick to give a preview gallery that, if you’re anything like me, will bring you to tears. :’) We are SO grateful that we chose Logan as our photographer, and I PROMISE you will be too!!!”
Colorado Wedding Photographer
If you’re dreaming of an extraordinary engagement session in the Rockies, I’m happy to help!
Hi, I’m Logan, and I would love to capture your Colorado engagement photos (and the wedding to follow!) I deeply value personal connection with my couples and share the same love of travel, adventure, and effortless experiences as you. When you hire me, you aren’t just getting someone who is going to take beautiful photos. Though I’ll do that, you should know that you’re gaining your new, right-hand woman who will do everything in her power to help you have a seamless experience.
Want to learn more about my engagement session packages? You can check them out here, and when you’re ready, inquire with me here!
