Lost Gulch Overlook Wedding & Elopement Guide for 2026
Hey there! My name’s Iver Marjerison.
I’m a Colorado-based micro-wedding planner and officiant, and over the years I’ve helped plan hundreds of small weddings and elopements across the state. This guide covers everything you need to know about getting married at Lost Gulch Overlook.
Lost Gulch Overlook is one of the most iconic elopement locations in Colorado, perched high above Boulder on Flagstaff Mountain with sweeping views of the Rocky Mountains and the city below. Located just a short drive from downtown Boulder—and about an hour from Denver International Airport—this breathtaking overlook is known for its dramatic 360-degree vistas, making it a stunning choice for both sunrise and sunset elopements.
However, like many popular outdoor wedding locations in Colorado, Lost Gulch comes with unique challenges—crowds, limited parking, and strict permit guidelines. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about eloping at Lost Gulch Overlook, including the best times to visit, weather tips, parking and accessibility info, nearby places to stay and dine, and essential planning considerations to help you make the most of your Boulder elopement experience.
What the Internet Won’t Tell You About Lost Gulch
I’ve planned and officiated hundreds of weddings in Colorado over the years, and Lost Gulch is definitely one of the best in terms of photos. However, it is very small, and a VERY BUSY location, so unless you do sunrise, expect to have a lot of people in the area. If you’re looking for privacy, there are much better spots!
If Lost Gulch doesn’t work for you—don’t worry!
There are lots of beautiful places in Colorado to get married.
Text or Email me the word “info” to learn about all the spots we use!
Iver@ColoradoMicroWeddings.com
720-598-2862
Everything You Need to Know About Getting Married at Lost Gulch Overlook
Lost Gulch Overlook is a beautiful public park located on the edge of Boulder, Colorado. It only requires a permit for the photographer, and technically allows groups with up to 12 people—though it’s really not comfortable for more than two guests.
Elevation: ~7,333
Max Group Size: 12 people total in your group—this includes all vendors!
Permit Fee: No wedding permit required (photographer needs a $25 permit)
Accessibility: All year around, but may close in the winter
Distance from Denver International Airport: Estimated 1 hour
Nearest Town: Boulder
Pros & Cons
This location is beautiful, easy to get to, and doesn’t require a wedding permit! However, it’s a small area that is always packed with other weddings and groups. If you want any level of privacy, this likely isn’t the spot for you.
Jump to Pros & Cons
Planning & Marriage License
Getting married at Lost Gulch Overlook is fairly simple, just make a timeline, get the marriage license, and secure any needed vendors, like photographer, officiant, etc. Most importantly - make sure your photographer has their OSMP permit.
Jump to How-To Get Married
Best Day, Month, and Time
The best option is a Tuesday or Wednesday, Mid June through Mid October, at sunrise.
Jump to Best Day, Time & Month
Good to Know
Lost Gulch Overlook is not handicap accessible. Dogs are allowed if they are on a leash. Alcohol is not allowed. Music is not allowed. Chairs and decorations are not allowed. Lots more info…
Jump to FAQs
Lodging
Honestly, anything in the Boulder area works fine. Lots of hotels and rental homes!
Jump to Lodging Guide
Dining & Reception
After a small outdoor wedding like this, most groups simply head to a local restaurant for their “reception.”
Jump to Dining Guide
Other locations? - I’ve got planning guides, packages, and resources for all the best small wedding and elopement locations across Colorado.
Jump to Other Guides & Locations
Need Help Planning Your Lost Gulch Elopement?
Colorado MicroWeddings
7+ Years of Service | 500+ Five Star Reviews
I’ll work with you 1-on-1 to fully plan your day.
Plus, you’ll get exclusive discounts with Colorado’s top photographers, officiants, florists, videographers and more!
All-Inclusive Lost Gulch Overlook Elopement Package
(Learn More)
Pros & Cons of Getting Married at Lost Gulch Overlook
Pros
The Views (Of Course)
The unobstructed views of the plains, distant mountain ranges nestled against the forest provide the perfect dramatic backdrop for wedding photos both morning and evening.
Sunrise
Lost Gulch is an incredibly popular location. However, it still offers a sense of seclusion and privacy during sunrise. At sunset, it's not uncommon that the parking lot is overflowing with people seemingly everywhere, but at sunrise it's possible to have the area completely to yourself. If privacy is a top priority for you, we recommend off season, sunrise and weekdays. Keep in mind exclusivity to any public site is never guaranteed.
Easy to get to: Being just a few minutes drive from the heart of Boulder, Lost Gulch Overlook is relatively easy to reach compared to more remote mountain wedding locations. The short drive from the heart of Boulder is one of the most scenic short drives!
Cons
Popularity and Crowds
Due to its expansive views and close proximity to Boulder, Lost Gulch Overlook is a very popular location for weddings and photo shoots. It is also a popular spot for hikers, tourists, and college kids (a lot of whom are partaking in a smoke sesh). This means there’s a chance that your ceremony could coincide with other visitors enjoying the spot (and often college kids offering you a hit of their blunt).
Sunrise is the best time to get a bit of privacy, but even then, expect other groups to be in close proximity. If you want any level of privacy on your wedding day, this is not the spot for you.
Pro Move: There are several private ceremony sites nearby (Like Sunrise Amphitheater) where you can do the ceremony in peace, and then head to Lost Gulch to do your portraits!
Text or Email me the word “info” for my full list of Colorado micro-wedding spots!
Iver@ColoradoMicroWeddings.com
720-598-2862
Parking and Accessibility
The parking area at Lost Gulch Overlook can fill up quickly, particularly on weekends, sunset and during peak tourist seasons. Because of this, we recommend carpooling and keeping your vehicle count as low as possible. The overlook parking lot requires a $5 parking permit if your vehicle is not registered in Boulder County.
While Lost Gulch Overlook is accessible in terms of proximity to the city, we absolutely do not recommend this location if you or any of your guests have impaired mobility, use a wheelchair, etc. Essentially, the overlook is a cluster of uneven rocks and boulders that do not create a proper pathway. If mobility is a concern of yours, we can give you a list of options that may be better suited for you!
Weather & Elevation
With the high elevation and exposed rock face of this location, weather can be volatile, and strong wind is common. Plan accordingly with extra layers, and be prepared for high winds.
How to Get Married at Lost Gulch Overlook
Pick a Ceremony Date & Time
Whatever works for you! mid-June through mid-October is the most popular wedding season, with Tuesday and Wednesday being the least busy days in the park. When possible, sunrise is best to avoid crowds, but sunset is also great lighting for photos if you don’t mind having a ton of people around. Click here to learn about the best time to elope in Colorado.
Find Your Wedding Vendors
This is optional technically, but many couples like to have a wedding officiant and/or photographer for their day. Click here for our All-Inclusive Lost Gulch Overlook elopement package info.
OSMP Photography Permit
Make sure your photographer has an active OSMP photography permit ($25). More info.
Get the Marriage License
Colorado makes getting a marriage license simple! You and your fiance simply need to go into a Colorado County Clerk during business hours to pick up the license. Boulder County has their own office, but they are difficult to work with. I suggest finding another County Clerk nearby. Here’s my full Colorado Marriage License Guide.
Get Married!
On the day of the wedding, you and your guests will meet your wedding vendors at Lost Gulch. You’ll have the ceremony, sign the license, take photos (you may also want to take some photos at Chautauqua Park down the road), and then most groups simply head to a local restaurant to celebrate!
Best Day, Time, Month to Elope at Lost Gulch Overlook
When is the best time of year to elope at Lost Gulch Overlook?
The best time of year to elope at Lost Gulch Overlook is mid-June through mid-October. This avoids winter storms that may close the road to the site. Lost Gulch Overlook Closure Status.
When is the best time of day to elope at Lost Gulch Overlook?
The best time of day to elope at Lost Gulch Overlook is sunrise. This avoids the large crowds of people that arrive at the site later in the day. Though, technically speaking, sunset is also very good lighting for photos.
When is the best day of the week to elope at Lost Gulch Overlook?
The best day of the week to elope at Lost Gulch Overlook is Tuesday or Wednesday. These are the days with the lowest amount of foot traffic and other events.
What is the weather like at Lost Gulch Overlook?
Lost Gulch Overlook is a high elevation cliff ledge, so the weather can be volatile, with wind and rain common. While the location is technically open all year around, Mid-June thru Mid-October is the best time to avoid winter storms.
Lost Gulch Overlook Elopement FAQs
Do I need a permit to get married at Lost Gulch Overlook?
If your total group size, including vendors, is under 12 people, Boulder OMSP currently states that you do not need a permit to get married at Lost Gulch. However, if your event is being photographed, your photographer will need to hold an active OSMP photography permit ($25). Additionally, while the guideline is groups under 12, we recommend as small of groups as possible at this location due to its very limited parking, size and its high popularity. Lost Gulch Permit info from OSMP.
Are dogs allowed at Lost Gulch Overlook?
Yep! Dogs are allowed at Lost Gulch Overlook, but must be kept on leash at all times. Please consider your dogs behavior and comfortability when planning to include them, as this spot is rocky and high up!
Is alcohol allowed at Lost Gulch Overlook?
No, alcohol is not allowed at Lost Gulch Overlook.
What is the parking like at Lost Gulch Overlook?
There is paid parking in the lot right next to Lost Gulch Overlook. Availability is often limited, so give yourself extra time.
What are the best photo spots near Lost Gulch Overlook?
Artist Point and Chautauqua Park are the best photo spots near Lost Gulch Overlook.
Where to Stay Near Lost Gulch Overlook
While Lost Gulch is just a short drive from downtown Boulder, the area offers several lodging options for couples and their guests. Whether you prefer a cozy mountain retreat, a boutique hotel, or a charming bed and breakfast, Boulder and its surroundings have something for everyone! If you feel like getting out of the city, we recommend accommodations nearby in Lyons, Nederland or even Estes Park!
1. Airbnb+VRBO Options
For some of the most unique and private options, we highly recommend checking out the incredible spaces on these rental sites.
Want a rental home for your party?
Colorado Wedding Homes
Event & Group Friendly Rental Homes!
2. The St. Julien Hotel & Spa
Distance: About 15 minutes from Lost Gulch Overlook
Description: A luxury hotel offering world-class amenities, including a full-service spa, rooftop bar with stunning views of the flatirons with a prime location near Pearl Street. This is a perfect option for couples looking for a relaxing and high-end experience in Boulder.
3. Basecamp Boulder
Distance: About 15 minutes from Lost Gulch Overlook
Description: For a very “Boulder” experience Basecamp Boulder offers a fun, boutique hotel with a laid-back, rustic vibe that’s perfect for couples looking for an adventure while staying comfortable. Basecamp is close to the trails and offers easy access to both downtown Boulder and the mountains. They have firepits, indoor rock climbing and are pet friendly! Check it Out
4. The Boulder Adventure Lodge
Distance: About 20 minutes from Lost Gulch Overlook
Description: Offering a little bit of everything! Situated just outside the city, the Boulder Adventure Lodge offers a more outdoorsy vibe with lodge-style accommodations. This is an excellent option if you want to combine your wedding with a more rustic experience. This spot offers campsites, hostel and cabin lodging options to match whatever vibe you want! Check it out
Where to Have a Reception After Your Lost Gulch Overlook Wedding:
Boulder is known for its thriving food scene, with plenty of farm-to-table restaurants and cozy eateries. Whether you’re looking for a celebratory dinner post-wedding or a casual breakfast before your ceremony, Boulder has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.
1. Flagstaff House
Distance: About 5 minutes from Lost Gulch
Description: An incredible unique dining space nestled into the trees of Flagstaff Mountain. Think fine dining and incredible wines overlooking Boulder.
2. Frasca Food and Wine
Distance: About 20 minutes from Lost Gulch
Description: A renowned, Michelin-starred Italian restaurant offering exceptional food and a beautiful, upscale atmosphere. We love this spot for a romantic post-wedding dinner.
3. Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery
Distance: About 15 minutes from Lost Gulch
Description: If you're in the mood for something more laid-back, Mountain Sun offers great local brews and hearty pub food. It's an excellent place for a more casual reception or dinner. Located in the heart of Pearl Street Mall!
4. OAK at Fourteenth
Distance: About 15 minutes from Lost Gulch
Description: An upscale restaurant offering wood-fired dishes, cocktails, and an extensive wine list. It’s a perfect place for a small, intimate wedding dinner and our clients love this spot!
Colorado Micro-Wedding & Elopement Packages
Starting at $1,300
—Officiant (starting at $300)
—Photography (starting at $500)
—Videography (starting at $900)
—Flowers (starting at $100)
—Wedding Planner (starting at $500)
Everything you need for a beautiful and stress-free small wedding!
All-Inclusive | 100% Customizable | 0 - 80 Guests
Vendors | Venues | Marriage License | Permits | Dining | Lodging
Looking for Other Location Options?
This guide is part of our Colorado Small Wedding & Elopement Guides
View All Location Guides
Want Help Planning Your Colorado Small Wedding?
If you’d like help coordinating permits, logistics, and vendors, you can also explore our all-inclusive options.
View All-Inclusive Elopement Packages
