Red Rocks Park is a location that tends to delightfully surprise couples in person. The scale of the red rock formations, the open views, and how close it is to Denver all make it feel different from most Colorado trails.

Located just outside Denver in Morrison, Colorado, Red Rocks Park is a great choice for engagement photos if you want something that looks like a desert-style landscape—without committing to a long hike or having to travel to Sedona!

This session guide covers what you should know when planning your engagement session at Red Rocks Park, including which trail I recommend, the best timing, photography permit rules, parking, outfit considerations, and what to expect once you’re there.

Why Choose Red Rocks Park for Your Engagement Photos

Red Rocks stands out because it’s vastly different from many Front Range photo locations. Instead of evergreen trees or alpine lakes, you’re surrounded by red sandstone formations. Plus, the best backdrops are accessible with short walks and the location itself is under 30 minutes from Denver.

Best Locations for Engagement Photos at Red Rocks Park

You don’t need to explore too far at Red Rocks to get a lot of variety in your gallery that’s also the best of the scenery. My favorite area to photograph within Red Rocks Park is near the Trading Post!

Trading Post Trail

The Trading Post Trail is my favorite trail in Red Rocks Park. It offers uninterrupted red rock views, textured sandstone, and enough room to roam. While the trail itself isn’t long (at least not long to where we need to go), it is steep in places. If you’ve ever heard that Red Rocks will take your breath… it’s true—literally and metaphorically!

Here is the Google maps link so you know where to park.

Trading Post Gift Shop Area

I think the most underrated location in Red Rocks Park is the Trading Post itself (aka the visitor center). The adobe-style architecture and flat courtyard make for the perfect place to twirl, run, and get creative with composition.

If you’re planning to wear a more formal outfit with heels or dress shoes, I recommend doing this portion of your session here before hitting the trail.

Pro Tip: This is also a great spot for a proposal if you’re reading this blog because you’re trying to find a spot to pop the question!

Best Time of Day for a Red Rocks Engagement Session

Timing has a big impact on both the lighting and overall logistics at Red Rocks Park.

Evening Sessions

I recommend starting 90–120 minutes before sunset. This allows us enough time to explore all of the spots at the Trading Post and on the trail, wait out any foot traffic passing by, and take full advantage of the best light of the day.

Weekdays vs. Weekends

Weekdays are usually the best option for your session here. Red Rocks is popular and weekends tend to bring heavier foot traffic, especially to shows at Red Rocks Amphitheatre.

Check the Event Calendar

Red Rocks Park is joined to the amphitheater and event days can significantly affect traffic and parking—I just consider event days as not an option to be safe. If you’re hoping to do your engagement photos at Red Rocks, please check the amphitheater calendar before choosing your date!

Photography Permits at Red Rocks Park

Good news: a photography permit is NOT required at Red Rocks Park when your group has fewer than 5 people total (including the photographer) and you are only utilizing the trails. Red Rocks Park is managed by Denver Mountain Parks, and the amphitheatre is managed separately. You DO need a photography permit to take photos inside of Red Rocks Amphitheater. I honestly suggest just sticking to the trails!

Another pro of this location is that there is no entry fee required. Admission to Red Rocks park is FREE!

What to Wear for Engagement Photos at Red Rocks

I suggest choosing colors that stand out against the red rock rather than blending in. Coordinating outfits—rather than matching exactly—helps everything photograph cohesively.

The trails are steep enough that footwear matters. I recommend some fashionable tennis shoes or boots with a solid grip like chelsea boots. If you want to wear heels or dress shoes, plan to do that near the Trading Post Visitor Center where the ground is flat.

Parking at Red Rocks Park

On non-event days, parking at Red Rocks is usually plentiful and close to the main photo areas. There is a parking lot at the Trading Post as well as plenty of parking along the road next to it if that lot is full. Parking is FREE!

Red Rocks Park, Colorado Engagement Photographer

Hi, I’m Logan Ferree, a Colorado wedding photographer based in Northern Colorado, serving Denver, Aspen, Boulder, Estes Park, and couples across the state. If you’re considering engagement photos at Red Rocks Park and want help planning timing, outfits, permits, and logistics, you can reach out here to get started. I can’t wait to hear all about your vision for your engagement session!