Trail Ridge Road Engagement Session in Rocky Mountain National Park, Co | Shayla and Dave
When Shayla and Dave insisted on climbing boulders at Bear Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, I knew we were in for a wild ride, in the best way possible. These two brought the energy, the laughs, and the mountain-loving spirit to their Colorado engagement session, and I was here for all of it.
After we wrapped up their alpine lake portraits, we headed up one of Colorado’s most iconic drives: Trail Ridge Road. Often called the “highway to the sky,” this scenic byway stretches 48 miles through Rocky Mountain National Park, peaking at over 12,000 feet in elevation. And trust me, once you reach the top, you can feel every one of those feet. The wind was whipping and temps were freezing, but the views? Absolutely worth it.
Alpine Wildflowers and Once-in-a-Lifetime Views
Our timing couldn’t have been better. Colorado wildfires have been throwing off sunset visibility all summer, but somehow, we landed a clear evening with just enough glow to illuminate the alpine tundra and rolling ridgelines. Wildflowers danced in the breeze, and I could almost hear Horace Albright’s words echo through the peaks, when the National Park Service director declared in 1931 that Trail Ridge offers “the whole sweep of the Rockies before you in all directions,” he really wasn’t kidding.
Next Stop: Lake Geneva, Wisconsin Wedding Magic
Freezing wind aside, I wouldn’t trade a minute of this session. Shayla and Dave were absolute troopers, adventuring, laughing, shivering, and celebrating every second. Their love for the mountains (and each other) made this an unforgettable shoot, and I already know their upcoming wedding at The Abbey on Lake Geneva in Wisconsin is going to be just as incredible.
Planning your own Colorado mountain engagement session? Whether you're dreaming of Bear Lake, Trail Ridge Road, or somewhere entirely your own, let’s make it happen. Or check it out some RMNP engagement sessions below, in all seasons.
xx,
Jennifer Lourie
