Best Places to Propose in Colorado 2024

When clients ask Durango photographers where they should propose in the Southwest we may have a difficult time answering the question because of the wealth of spots that would be beautiful to do so in and around the area and in Colorado in general.  This is my brief Durango photographer's guide to choosing the right location.

Before choosing a location it would be a great idea to answer a few questions regarding your plans.  The most important question to me is this: Do you want your significant other to be surprised?  If so, you'd better make sure you hire a photographer with a telephoto lens that is willing to hide for a decent amount of time before you arrive.  When proposing in the winter it can be a challenge to make sure your significant other dresses appropriately for the occasion, especially if it is going to be a surprise.  Another question pertains to whether or not you want to book your photography in a larger "all encompassing" service that would later include engagement photos, wedding photos, or a Colorado elopement package (or a Utah elopement package, etc.).  Durango wedding photographers often offer packages like that.

The greatest challenge is to choose the right location for your proposal.  I recommend somewhere beautiful, outside, and far enough from any roads or buildings that they won't ruin any photos of your Colorado proposal photography.  Most Colorado photographers should hopefully be able to assist you with this if they are familiar with their area.

If you plan on surprising your significant other be sure to make very exact plans with your photographer so that nothing goes astray.  Timing, your exact location, and which way you will face are VERY important things to know for proposal photographers.

The best places in Colorado to propose are relatively easy to drive within 10 minutes of, include a brief hike to get away from any random human interventions (these can change your exact proposal location and if you have a photographer in hiding that would be very unfortunate), and have a great view behind them or at least a pretty background like a waterfall or stream.

Don't be disheartened if the weather changes on your scheduled day.  Some of the best photos come from inclement weather.  In my opinion, the moodier the better.  Durango photography deals with this problem rather regularly!

There are several places to find inspiration for your special day.  You can start with my landscapes gallery if you need inspiration: Landscapes Gallery
For further insight I recommend this article: ​www.thecrazytourist.com/the-15-most-beautiful-spots-in-colorado/
Or this particularly well curated list of locations: www.colorado.com/articles/99-gorgeous-places-colorado-part-1-postcard-places
​To find "photographers near me" in Colorado, look no further than yours truly!
Southwest Durango Photography would love to be your proposal, engagement, or Colorado elopement photographer!