Home / Engagement Locations / Colorado / Golden Gate Canyon State Park
Golden Gate Canyon State Park is a great choice for engagement photos in Colorado during the spring, summer or fall because of the beautiful surroundings and variety of backdrops.
Located about 45 minutes west of Denver, Golden Gate Canyon State Park provides endless opportunities for engagement photos. I have shot here a ton and know all of the great locations.
Sessions typically start by meeting couples at Cannonball Creek Brewing in Golden for a beer. Then we all jump in one car together since parking is limited at some locations and we only have to pay for one car pass ($7/day).
Kriley’s Pond is a great location to begin the session. There is a small aspen grove above the pond and a open meadow just across the street. From late summer to mid fall, Mountain Base Road is open and you’ll find pockets of aspen trees and tall pines. The sun screams in on Gap Road on the opposite side of the park which makes it an excellent location during golden hour.
All state parks require a photography permit at least two weeks ahead of time so keep that in mind when scheduling your session.
VENUE DETAILS
Location: 39°50'00.3"N 105°25'44.3"W
Nearest Town: Golden
Elevation: 8,368 ft.
Permit: Required
WHY WE LOVE IT
Since the area is slightly lower in elevation compared to many other locations in the high country the temperature is usually warmer, it dries out faster in the spring and the fall color peaks later in the season. So I often use this location for couples who want mountain photos when the conditions in Summit, or Eagle County aren't ideal. There is rarely anyone around in the evenings when we're shooting which is ideal for the session. Of all the engagement locations, this is one of my favorite.
