August 29, 2025

How to Get Married at 3M Curve in 2025  – Weddings & Elopements

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3M Curve is one of the best ceremony locations in Rocky Mountain National Park. With wide-open views of Longs Peak (the park’s only 14er) and a peaceful spot tucked back from the road, you can often have its gorgeous views all to yourself.

As a local Colorado elopement photographer, I’ve photographed dozens of elopements and intimate weddings at 3M Curve in every season since 2015 and I’m excited to share my insider tips to plan your perfect 3M Curve wedding ceremony so you can get the day you’re dreaming of!

How do you get married at 3M Curve?

If you want to have a wedding or elopement ceremony anywhere in Rocky Mountain National Park (even if it’s just the two of you exchanging vows) you’ll need a Special Use Permit, and your ceremony must take place at one of the park’s designated sites—like 3M Curve!

To get married at 3M Curve, you need to:

  1. Choose your date and hire your photographer ASAP
    The park only allows six total ceremonies per day (regardless of availability) and many dates (especially May–October) book out fast—often a full year in advance.
  2. Pro Tip: Applications open on the 1st of each month for the same month the following year. i.e. If you want to get married on June 21, 2027 you can apply for your permit on June 1, 2026.
  3. Know the guest limit
    3M Curve has a strict 15-person limit (which includes you two, your photographer, officiant, and any other vendors). Carpooling is helpful as you’re allowed 3 total vehicles.
  4. Get your Permit
    Visit the Rocky Mountain National Park webpage on weddings and download the Special Use Permit Application. Email the filled out application to romo_fees_permits@nps.gov. After you’re contacted, review the draft permit, sign it, and then pay the $300 fee. Once you receive your permit, distribute a copy to your entire group.
  5. Plan Your Timeline & Photo Locations
    Your permit allows you to take portraits elsewhere in the park before or after your ceremony. If you work with a local photographer who’s extremely familiar with the park (like me), I’ll help you find the best spots for golden light, epic views, and a secluded experience.
  6. Get Married!
    Bring a printed copy of your permit and soak in the moment. 3M Curve is a stunning place to say your vows and there’s so much more of the park to explore before or after.

Photographer Tip: There’s a way to angle your ceremony so that you can have an “aisle” walk down a cute little trail and have a perfect view of Longs Peak in the background. When we work together, I’ll share all my favorite positioning tips for the best light based on the time of day you’re getting married!

A group of people dressed in formal attire walk along a rocky path on a mountain, surrounded by trees and overlooking a scenic forested valley with distant mountains in the background.

When’s the best time to visit 3M Curve?

3M Curve is best to visit in the warmer months of May-October. At 7,500 ft elevation, it will be warmest in late June through August. For wildflowers, July is the best month.

To get the best combination of no people around and great lighting, I strongly suggest selecting a weekday wedding date and to be in the park either at sunrise or sunset (or both!) During those times of day, you’ll get the best soft light and next a lot less crowds. You can see photos of both a sunrise and sunset elopement and wedding at 3M Curve below.

If you want the most seclusion in the park, May and October are nice “shoulder season” months where the lower altitude areas of the park have nice weather while the higher altitudes get snow. 

Be aware that during the winter months 3M curve can get snowy, so if you don’t want that, avoid November through early May! March & April are typically our snowiest months here in Colorado.

3M Curve Summer Wedding

A bride and groom stand facing each other outdoors on rocky terrain, with mountains and clouds in the background, during their wedding ceremony.

Summer elopements (late June – August) at 3M Curve include highs in the mid-80’s, later sunsets if you want an evening elopement, and lots of greenery and wildflowers everywhere!

3M Curve Winter Elopement

A bride and groom stand on a rocky cliff, exchanging vows with two attendants, against a backdrop of snow-dusted mountains and pine trees. The bride wears a white gown and fur shawl; the groom is in a dark suit.

If you love the idea of white peaks, frosted rocks, evergreens dusted with snow, and few tourists, this is a great pick for a winter wedding! 

How do you get to 3M Curve? 

Enter through RMNP’s Beaver Meadows Entrance Station and travel about 3.5 miles down Highway 36. It isn’t marked on the park map, so be sure to keep a close eye on the markers as you travel. 3M Curve is at the GPS coordinates 40°22’50.1″N 105°36’12.1″W—you’ll see a large rock on the south side of the road with a few spots for parking. Once you park, you’ll see a small trail that goes behind the rock on the south side of the road and a clear area for your ceremony. 

How much does it cost to get married at 3M Curve?

The cost to get married at any site within Rocky Mountain National Park is $360 (that includes the special use permit fee, your marriage license from a local clerk, plus the cost at the gate for one car to enter). If you have more cars with you, they’ll need to pay a $30 fee each. All fees are card only.

The rest of your wedding or elopement budget can be whatever you’d like it to be based on how many guests you want to come, if you’re holding a reception somewhere after, any vendors, etc.! Many couples who hire me prioritize stunning locations and grand adventures, so they invest most of their budget into photography to document the day.

You can find my full cost of eloping guide here!

Are dogs allowed at 3M Curve?

No—dogs are not allowed at this location or on any trails at Rocky Mountain National Park. There are a couple of select spots in the park where you can have dogs at your ceremony, though, which I list in my Rocky Mountain National Park guide!

3M Curve Wedding & Elopement Photos

Since 2015, I’ve photographed more ceremonies at 3M Curve than I can count—it’s one of my all-time favorite RMNP spots.

Sunrise 3M Curve Micro Wedding  – Alica & Zach

Alicia & Zach eloped in late June and used 3M Curve as their ceremony site. Neither of them had been to Colorado in years, so I was happy to act as their boots-on-the-ground resource while they planned their elopement from out of state. They wanted a super intimate experience for their couples photos, so we headed to the higher altitudes of the park for their sunrise first look and couples photos. After their beautiful and emotion-filled ceremony with friends and family at 3m Curve, they headed back to their cabin for a cozy lunch celebration.

A bride in a white gown approaches a person in black standing on rocky terrain, with dramatic mountain peaks and patches of snow in the background.
A bride in a white dress stands on a rocky ledge, gently resting her hand on the back of a groom in a black suit. They face large, snow-patched mountains under a soft evening light.
A bride and groom stand together on a rocky cliff, with snow-capped mountains in the background. The bride wears a white gown, and the groom is in a black suit. They are gazing at each other, outdoors in nature.
A bride and groom stand on large rocks overlooking a dramatic mountain landscape with snow patches, under a clear sky.
A bride and groom embrace on a mountain, with snow-capped peaks in the background. The bride wears a white dress and holds a bouquet, while the groom wears a black suit. A bouquet lies on the ground beside them.
A bride in a white dress and a groom in a black suit embrace on a rocky mountain ledge. The background features rugged peaks and patches of snow. A bouquet of flowers lies on the ground nearby.
A bride and groom stand on rocky terrain in front of a mountain with patches of snow. The bride is in a white dress holding a bouquet of pink and white flowers, while the groom embraces her from behind, wearing a dark suit.
A couple in wedding attire stands on a rocky outcrop in a mountainous landscape. The bride holds a bouquet, and both look towards the camera. Snow-capped peaks and rugged terrain are visible in the background under a clear sky.
A bride and groom walk hand in hand on a grassy hillside surrounded by mountains and clouds. The bride wears a white dress and holds a bouquet, while the groom wears a dark suit. The background features a misty, mountainous landscape.
Bride in a white gown holding a bouquet and groom in a dark suit embrace in a mountainous landscape. Clouds and mountains form the backdrop. The scene is serene and romantic.
A couple in wedding attire walks across a grassy landscape, with rugged mountains and clouds in the background. The expansive cloudy sky adds a dramatic touch to the scene.
A couple in formal wedding attire embraces on a grassy hilltop. The bride holds a bouquet and wears a flowing gown, while the groom stands close, caressing her head. Mountain peaks and a cloudy sky create a dramatic backdrop. The image is in black and white.
A couple embraces joyfully on a rocky hilltop with the bride lifted in the air. She wears a white wedding gown, and the groom is in a dark suit. They are surrounded by clouds and distant mountains, creating a serene and breathtaking backdrop.
A bride in a strapless white gown holds a large bouquet featuring pink and white flowers, a protea, and long flowing ribbons. The background is an outdoor grassy area.
A bride and groom embrace on a mountain overlook, surrounded by mist and rugged peaks with patches of snow. The bride holds a bouquet of flowers, and both wear formal attire. The scene is serene and dramatic.
A bride in a white gown and a groom in a black suit hold hands on a rocky mountainside. Mist surrounds them, and snowy peaks rise in the background. The bride carries a bouquet, and both look at each other, smiling.
A group of seven people dressed formally stand on a rocky outcrop with a scenic mountainous backdrop. The sky is overcast, and pine trees surround them. Some wear suits, others dresses, in colors ranging from black to light pink.
A bride and groom walk hand in hand toward a small group of people gathered on rocky terrain. The backdrop features misty mountains and pine trees under a cloudy sky, creating an intimate outdoor setting.
A black-and-white photo of a wedding ceremony. The bride, holding a bouquet, stands between two men, one of whom is officiating the ceremony. Another couple stands behind them, all focused on the proceedings. Flowers and formal attire are visible.
A black and white photo of an emotional moment. A woman, wiping her tears, stands beside a man in a suit. Both appear solemn, in an outdoor setting, sharing a tender, heartfelt moment.
A small wedding ceremony takes place on a rocky outcrop with a panoramic view of a mountainous landscape. The bride and groom stand together, surrounded by a few guests under a cloudy sky. Trees and distant hills are visible in the background.
A bride and groom stand facing each other during their wedding ceremony. The groom gently touches the bride's face while holding her hand. A man stands beside the bride holding a bouquet. They are outdoors with a blurred background.
A groom places a wedding ring on the bride's finger during a ceremony. The bride's dress is decorated with lace. The officiant stands in the background, slightly out of focus.
A bride and groom embrace during a wedding ceremony on a rocky mountain overlook. Four guests stand nearby, two wearing formal dresses and two in suits. Pine trees and misty mountains are in the background under a cloudy sky.
A rustic, semi-naked three-tier wedding cake on a wooden stand is adorned with pink and red flowers. Next to it is a bouquet of matching flowers, feathers, and greenery, placed on a wooden table with a warm, soft background.
A group of people gathered, each raising a champagne flute in a toast. They are seated around a table with floral decorations. The mood appears celebratory, with both men and women participating in the toast.
A couple dances closely in a cozy wooden setting. The woman, in a white dress, embraces the man, who wears a black suit. Two women in formal dresses stand in the background, observing them with warm expressions.
A bride and groom stand in a grassy field with tall trees, laughing as the groom sprays champagne. The bride is in a strapless white dress, while the groom wears a black suit. The background is slightly blurred with hints of a landscape.

Sunset 3M Curve Elopement – Brooke & Farzin

Brooke & Farzin had their intimate wedding ceremony at 3M Curve in the late afternoon where they gathered at the ceremony site and their guests read prepared mini-speeches to the couple. They had a ring-warming, where all of their guests put their hands in to hold the rings and send positive vibes to the couple for their marriage, which I thought was such a sweet way to include them. They even signed the marriage license right there in the park off the back of one of their guests! Afterwards Brooke & Farzin and I explored the rest of the park to adventure by themselves for sunset, which was a beautiful way to wrap up their day. 

A bride in a white lace dress stands smiling behind a groom in a dark suit outdoors, with trees, a lake, and mountains under a partly cloudy sky in the background.
A bride and groom stand outdoors, holding hands and kissing with a scenic mountain lake and forested hills in the background under a partly cloudy sky.
A bride in a white dress and a groom in a dark suit stand outdoors holding hands, surrounded by trees and rocks, with mountains and a lake in the background under a sunny sky.
A group of people dressed in formal attire walk along a rocky path on a mountain, surrounded by trees and overlooking a scenic forested valley with distant mountains in the background.
A bride and groom stand together outdoors on rocky terrain, surrounded by their wedding party, with mountains and trees in the background under a bright sky.
A small wedding ceremony takes place on a rocky overlook with mountains and trees in the background. The bride and groom stand together, surrounded by their wedding party and guests under a cloudy sky.
A bride and groom stand outdoors, holding hands during their wedding ceremony. The bride holds a bouquet of flowers, and both look at each other warmly. Mountains and trees are visible in the background.
A wedding ceremony on a rocky ledge with mountains in the background. The bride in a white dress stands beside the groom, surrounded by guests in formal attire as an officiant reads from a paper.
A small wedding ceremony takes place on a rocky mountain overlook, with the bride and groom standing together, surrounded by guests. Pine trees and distant mountains fill the scenic background under a cloudy sky.
A bride in a lace wedding dress smiles warmly at a man in a dark suit during an outdoor ceremony, with blurred guests and greenery in the background.
A close-up of a person in a black suit gently placing a ring on another person’s finger, suggesting an engagement or wedding ceremony.
A bride and groom kiss during an outdoor mountain wedding ceremony, surrounded by friends and family who applaud and smile. Rocky mountains and trees are visible in the background under a partly cloudy sky.
A bride and groom walk hand-in-hand on rocky terrain with dramatic, sunlit mountains and a cloudy sky in the background. The bride carries a bouquet and wears a flowing gown and shawl.
A bride and groom embrace on a mountaintop at sunset, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery and soft, warm light.
A bride and groom stand hand in hand on a rocky hilltop under a blue sky with scattered clouds, with mountains in the background.
A bride in a white dress and a groom in a dark suit walk together along a rocky hillside, with dramatic mountains and a cloudy sky in the background.
A bride and groom stand on a rocky slope, the bride holding her dress as she walks ahead. In the distance, mountains are visible under a cloudy sky. The black-and-white image evokes a dramatic, romantic atmosphere.
A bride in a flowing white dress walks on a rocky hillside toward a groom holding a bouquet; dramatic mountains and a cloudy sky are in the background.
A bride and groom stand on a rocky hilltop, with the bride's dress billowing in the wind. Majestic mountains and a partly cloudy sky create a dramatic backdrop.
A bride and groom walk together on a rocky mountain slope at sunset, with dramatic peaks and a cloudy sky in the background.
A bride and groom walk hand in hand on a rocky hillside at sunset, with mountains in the background. The bride holds her white dress and the groom carries a bouquet. Warm sunlight bathes the romantic outdoor scene.
A bride and groom walk hand in hand on a rocky mountain ridge under a cloudy sky, with rugged peaks and rolling hills in the background.
A couple in wedding attire stands on a rocky mountain ridge at sunset, surrounded by dramatic peaks and soft evening light under a partly cloudy sky.
A bride and groom embrace on a rocky mountain peak at sunset, with sweeping mountain ranges and a dramatic, cloudy sky in the background.
A couple in wedding attire stands on a rocky mountain peak, surrounded by vast, rugged mountains under a cloudy sky at sunset.
A bride and groom stand on rocky terrain, surrounded by mountains at sunset. The bride’s white dress flows in the wind, while the groom gently holds her waist. The dramatic landscape creates a romantic, adventurous scene.
A bride and groom stand on rocky terrain with mountains in the background. The bride holds up her flowing white dress as the groom stands beside her, both looking serene under soft, natural light.
A bride and groom, holding hands, stand on a mountain overlook at sunset with soft sunlight, dramatic clouds, and distant mountain peaks in the background. The couple is out of focus in the foreground.
The sun sets behind dark mountains, partially hidden by thick clouds, with rays of light streaming through, casting a warm, reddish-orange glow across the sky.
A bride and groom embrace on a rocky mountain slope at sunset, with soft sunlight, rolling hills, and distant mountains in the background.
A bride in a flowing white dress and a groom in a dark suit embrace on a mountain ridge at sunset, with distant peaks and a soft pink sky in the background.
A bride and groom embrace on a mountain slope at sunset. The bride's white dress flows in the wind as the groom holds her, with layers of mountains and a pink sky in the background.
A couple in formal attire lovingly embrace and touch noses on a mountain, with the woman’s hand gently on the man’s neck. The black-and-white image captures an intimate, romantic moment at sunset.
A couple embraces outdoors on a mountainside at sunset. The woman, in a lace wedding dress, gently hugs the man, who is facing away from the camera in a suit. The mountains are blurred in the background.

Hey I’m Maddie Mae

3M Curve Elopement Photographer

I’m a Colorado born-and-raised elopement photographer, and I live just 45 minutes from Rocky Mountain National Park—home of 3M Curve! For over a decade I’ve been designing, planning, & photographing adventure elopements across the state of Colorado and anywhere else on the planet that you can dream up.

If you’re looking for an experienced local elopement photographer who knows Rocky Mountain National Park like the back of her hand… you’re in the right place!

A woman with long brown hair and glasses smiles at the camera. She wears a black blazer, a black top, and a pendant necklace. The background is a plain light gray wall.

3M Curve Elopement Packages

Planning any kind of wedding (even a small one like an elopement) can be stressful—which is why I include extensive planning help in all of my elopement photography packages.

You won’t have to worry about how to find the best locations, when the best time of day for lighting is, how to figure out permits, or deal with any annoying logistics. With 300+ elopements planned & photographed and a lifetime of experience in Colorado, I’m ready to be your guide to getting married your way (and having the incredible photos to prove it). 

includes:

4+ Hours of guided, fun photography coverage by Maddie Mae

The Adventure Instead Elopement Experience™

Unique & secluded locations, bespoke activity ideas with pre-vetted guides, fun & luxurious lodging options, an experience-focused timeline, mood board & personalized styling suggestions, travel advice, VIP Planning Guide, and customized packing checklists

Free initial planning consultation call, direct access to Maddie Mae via text & email, unlimited planning consultations, unlimited collaboration & revisions, pre-vetted local vendor recommendations, and advice &and help with permits & marriage licenses

Guided + FUN photography experience, empathetic posing & directing, creative GIFS &and drone photography, hand-crafted editing, full-resolution image files with printing rights, digital gallery to view, download, & print, complementary album design, and convenient print ordering

My travel costs are covered and included to anywhere in Colorado

Starting at $6,000 for 4-hours of coverage.

Full-day, multi-day, and custom packages available.

No added travel costs. No hidden fees of any kind.

INQUIRE FOR AVAILABILITY & MORE INFO

Hey there!

I’m Maddie Mae

Your Elopement Photographer, Experience Designer & Planning Consultant



For the last 14 years I’ve traveled to 40 countries, all 7 continents, and planned & photographed over 300 elopements all over the world.

A woman with long brown hair and glasses smiles at the camera. She wears a black blazer, a black top, and a pendant necklace. The background is a plain light gray wall.
About Maddie Mae Elopement
Packages & Pricing Contact Me

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Ready to start planning your dream destination elopement?

Hey, I’m Maddie Mae

Your Elopement Photographer, Experience Designer & Planning Consultant

A person with long hair and glasses is sitting on sand, smiling at the camera. They are wearing a black lace cardigan over a beige top, with hoop earrings and a necklace. The background is a sandy expanse.

“The woman who sparked the adventure
elopement trend”  – Forbes

I don’t just photograph elopements –
I design and plan a curated, unique experience around the two of you—one you’ll enjoy every minute of.

I want to get to know what makes you two feel alive and create an experience worthy of this
incredible love you’ve found

about me
packages

“The woman who sparked the adventure elopement trend”  – Forbes

40

countries and 7 continents worth of travel experience and knowledge

13

years experience planning and photographing elopements & weddings

300

one-of-a-kind elopements & intimate weddings planned & photographed

2019

the year I eloped too (after planning my own destination elopement in just 6 weeks)

What makes my elopement packages different?

Every Adventure Instead elopement experience includes:

    A simple black and white drawing of a folded map with two location markers. A dotted line connects the markers, indicating a route.

    One-of-a-kind
    Experience Design

    A simple line drawing of a checklist with three items, each marked with a check. A large light bulb is depicted to the right of the checklist, symbolizing ideas or inspiration.

    Expert Planning
    Consulting

    Black and white line drawing of a rosette with a circular center and two ribbon tails hanging down.

    Award-Winning
    Photography

    A sketched illustration of a winding path with three map location pins. The pins are placed along the path, and the final pin features sun rays around it, signifying a destination or goal.

    Stunning & Secluded
    Location Ideas

    Line drawing of an A-frame cabin with a triangular shape. The structure features a chimney on the left side and a simple door at the bottom. The cabin is composed of horizontal panels, creating a minimalist and geometric look.

    Unique & relaxing
    lodging
    recommendations

    A black and white line drawing of a hot air balloon. The outline is simple with vertical segment lines and a small loop at the bottom representing the basket attachment.

    Personalized & Fun Activity Ideas

    A hand-drawn calendar with interconnected lines and a clock icon in the center, symbolizing time management or scheduling.

    Customized, Experience-Focused Timeline

    Line drawing of a clothes hanger with a fan of paint swatches hanging from it, symbolizing a blend of fashion and color selection.

    Personalized Mood Board & Styling Suggestions

    A simple black and white sketch shows a globe with continents outlined. A small airplane is flying around it, indicated by a dashed circular path. The airplane appears on the right side of the globe.

    No Additional Travel Fees

    A simple line drawing of overlapping speech bubbles containing ellipsis dots, suggesting an ongoing conversation or dialogue. The design is minimalistic and monochrome.

    Direct Access & Full
    Support by Maddie Mae

    A black and white illustration of an infinity symbol with four small, sparkling stars surrounding it. The design is simple and clean, emphasizing the concept of endlessness and continuity.

    Unlimited Planning
    Consultations & Revisions

    Line drawing of a bouquet featuring a large protea flower, surrounded by leaves and smaller flowers.

    Pre-Vetted Local
    Vendor
    Recommendations

    Illustration of a document with lines of text and a signature at the bottom. Next to it is a large checkmark inside a circle, indicating approval or completion.

    Expert Advice on Permits, Marriage Licenses & Safety

    Black and white illustration of a wheeled suitcase with a handle. A large tag is attached to the suitcase, featuring a checkmark symbol.

    Specific Gear Advice + Packing Checklists

    A simple black and white line drawing of an open book with multiple pages visible, giving a sense of depth.

    “How to Adventure Instead” VIP Planning Guide

    A hand-drawn calendar with interconnected lines and a clock icon in the center, symbolizing time management or scheduling.

    Customized, Experience-Focused Timeline

    Simple line drawing of two stick figures holding hands with arms raised, surrounded by lines suggesting movement or excitement.

    Guided & Fun
    Photography Experience

    A simple line drawing of an open hand with a heart above it, surrounded by small sparkles and lines radiating from the heart. The image conveys a sense of care and affection.

    Empathetic,
    Introvert-Friendly
    Posing & Directing

    Line drawing of a quadcopter drone with four propellers, viewed from above.

    Creative GIF’s &
    Drone Photography

    Line drawing of an artist's palette with five circles representing paint colors, accompanied by a paintbrush.

    Artistic, Hand-Crafted Editing

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    All Your Photos to
    Keep Forever

    Line drawing of an open photo album with three photo slots, one square on the left page and two rectangular on the right page.

    Complementary
    Album Design +
    Convenient Print
    Ordering

learn more about my elopement packages

Reach out & we’ll start planning your dream elopement

Don’t worry, most couples who inquire with me have no plans at all. 
Helping turn vague ideas into a thrilling plan is my specialty.

I can’t wait to hear your ideas and help bring them to life

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Note: I usually only photograph weddings with 25 guests or less
A laptop displaying a planning guide and checklist titled "How to Plan Your Elopement" sits next to a plant and mug, setting the scene for an inspired workspace. A smartphone with text rests on the desk, hinting at an adventure instead of tradition.

Not quite ready to reach out, but want help planning your elopement?

I created the ultimate destination elopement planning guide & checklist to help you get started

download the pdf guide