Lake Isabelle is located in the Brainard Lake Recreation Area of Colorado. It offers couples an awe-inspiring, alpine destination for eloping. At nearly 11,000 feet, Lake Isabelle is celebrated for its stunning mountainous views, pristine waters, and serene atmosphere. This guide will walk you through every detail of planning your Lake Isabelle elopement.

Reserve Your Permits and Understand the Regulations

Since Lake Isabelle is part of the Brainard Lake Recreation Area, it falls under the management of the U.S. Forest Service and follows strict regulations for events and photography.

Necessary Permits for a Lake Isabelle Elopement

Special Use Permits for Ceremonies: If your group exceeds more than 8 people including your photographer and videographer you will need to apply for a large group permit which is $11. Contact the Boulder Ranger District at the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests for specific requirements (303-541-2500)

Parking Permits + Timed Entries: Between June and mid-October, parking permits and timed entries are required to access the Brainard Lake Recreation Area. Parking is limited and spots fill up quickly. Additionally, make sure to reserve your spot in advance on the official Recreation.gov website. The parking fee for one vehicle is $14 and the timed entry fee is $2.

Lake Isabelle Elopement Parking + Hiking Information

The best place to park for your Lake Isabelle elopement is the Long Lake Parking Lot. This is the closest parking lot to the trailhead. However, this parking lot does not open until July. If you leave from here the hike is 4.2 miles with 550 ft. in elevation gain. However, if you decide to park at the Brainard Lake Recreation area the hike is 6.2 miles with 750 ft. in elevation gain.

Do We Hike in Our Wedding Attire?

That’s totally up to you! I have eloping couples who like to hike in their wedding attire so that they can get photos of them hiking in it. But I also have couples who choose to change into their wedding attire when they reach the lake. It really comes down to what you’re comfortable with. Which also leads me to my next point…

What to Wear for Your Lake Isabelle Elopement

Wedding Dresses

When choosing a wedding dress for your elopement at Lake Isabelle you will need to prioritize comfort and mobility. Since this is an outdoor location that requires hiking you may want to consider lightweight fabrics which allow ease of movement and photograph beautifully in natural light. I abolustely love flowy A-line gowns and dresses with trains because they offer a ton of diversity for your photos. Also, if you aren’t planning on hiking in your attire and coming from out of state you may want to consider if your dress is easy to pack and transport. Something to also consider is having a detachable skirt or cape. This can add versatility and may be easier to hike in. As for foot wear, ditch the heels and opt for sneakers or hiking boots (break them in months before). I think it’s super cute pairing a dress with boots! Above all, choose a dress that feels authentically you and aligns with the intimate, meaningful nature of your elopement.

Suits

If you are planning on wearing a suit for your elopement it is important that you select fabrics based on the time of year you plan on eloping. If you are eloping in the summer make sure to choose lighter fabrics such as linen or cotton. For winter months, you may want to consider wool. Choose a tailored fit that allows for ease of movement, especially if your elopement involves hiking or adventurous activities. Neutral tones, earthy shades, or muted colors often complement natural backdrops beautifully, while darker hues provide a timeless look. Also, don’t forget to choose footwear that’s both stylish and practical for the terrain. I usually suggest splurging on a great pair of hiking boots. Make sure to break them in ahead of time!

Best Time of Year & Week to Elope at Lake Isabelle

July to Early October: The trail to Lake Isabelle is typically accessible during these months, as snowpack diminishes. Note that snow may still be present early in the season. Lake Isabelle is drained every August and can be quite empty if you choose to elope August-October. I also always suggest eloping at Lake Isabelle during a weekday as it is less crowded and offers more privacy.

Sunrise vs. Sunset

I love both sunrise and sunset at Lake Isabelle! The lighting is so beautiful you can’t go wrong with either choice. The only downside to eloping in the afternoon is the possibility of afternoon thunderstorms. Regardless, to get the best photo ops. you should definitely choose to center your day around either sunrise or sunset. I would avoid midday as the lighting can be very harsh.

Eloping with Friends & Family at Lake Isabelle

If you plan on bringing your guests along for a portion of your elopement, I suggest having your ceremony along the lakeshore of Brainard Lake. This cuts out the hiking for your guests and also helps maintain the integrity of the ecosystem. Lake Isabelle’s alpine territory is very fragile, so plan on having your own adventure with your spouse either before or after your ceremony is key to maintaining this beautiful place.

If you plan on hosting your ceremony at Brainard Lake please make sure you follow all the rules. The amount of guests you are allowed to have is 15 or less. Ideally, I would keep this at 10 including yourselves and your photographer. Additionally, you are not permitted to have any props or seating at this location. If your guests require being able to sit I would suggest hosting your ceremony at a location in either Nederland or Boulder.

Also, please make sure to avoid geotagging your photos and follow Leave No Trace regulations. If you bring it in, you pack it out.

Are Dogs Allowed at Lake Isabelle?

The short answer is yes. However, like all parks they need to be leashed at all times. This is for their safety as there is a lot of wildlife in the area.

Planning for Weather and Altitude at Lake Isabelle

Weather Conditions

Weather in alpine regions can be unpredictable. Summer temperatures can vary drastically throughout the day, so dress in layers. Be prepared for sudden rain showers, wind, or even snow at higher elevations.

Altitude Considerations

At an elevation of nearly 11,000 feet, altitude sickness is a potential concern. If either of you is traveling from a lower elevation, consider acclimating in Boulder or Denver for a day or two before heading to Lake Isabelle.

Supplies to Bring

Bug Spray

Bear spray

Sunscreen

Food + Water

Extra Socks

Hiking Boots

Backpack

Rain gear

Layers

Lodging for Your Lake Isabelle Elopement

Nederland (30min): Closest town to Brainard Lake, offering cozy lodges and bed-and-breakfasts.

Boulder (60min): Offers a range of hotels and vacation rentals, providing a comfortable option for couples wanting more amenities.

Activities for Your Lake Isabelle Elopement Day

Picnicking by the Lake: There are several scenic picnic spots that you could take a break and relax with having a quiet picnic. This is a lovely way to unwind and take in the full experience.

Fishing at Brainard Lake and Long Lake: Fishing is permitted at Brainard Lake and Long Lake. You can catch, anglers, trout and other species. Colorado fishing licenses are required and can be purchased online or at local retailers.

Horseback Riding: There are a couple places around Brainard Lake Recreation area that offers horseback riding tours. This is great for couples who want a slower-paced activity with plenty of photo ops, horseback riding is a memorable addition to the day.

Hot Air Balloon Ride in Boulder: Floating above Boulder in a hot air balloon provides unparalleled views of the mountains and surrounding landscape. Many balloon rides operate at sunrise, offering a peaceful, romantic way to take in Colorado’s scenic beauty from the sky.

Kayaking, Paddle boarding or Canoeing: If your a couple that loves getting out on the water you may want to consider adding this into your day. It can be a great way to take it all in and really live in the moment.

How to Choose Your Rental Vehicle

Lake Isabelle located within the Brainard Lake Recreation area, requires a vehicle that can handle the conditions of the area, which varies depending on the season. Here are some considerations for the best vehicle:

June – October: (General Access Season)

Type of Vehicle: Any passenger car or SUV is typically sufficient.

Road Conditions: The main roads leading to Brainard Lake are paved and well-maintained during the warmer months when the area is open to vehicles.

Features to Look For:

Adequate ground clearance to handle occasional bumps or uneven patches.

Reliable brakes and handling for navigating curves in the mountainous terrain.

Fuel efficiency for longer trips into the mountains.

Winter (Closed Gate with Hiking or Snow Access)

Type of Vehicle: 4WD or AWD vehicle.

Road Conditions: The access roads can be icy or snowy, as the gate to Brainard Lake itself is closed, requiring a trek from the winter parking area.

Features to Look For:

Winter tires or chains for improved traction.

Heated mirrors and defrosting capabilities for visibility.

High-clearance.

Year-Round Recommendations

High-Altitude Capabilities: Choose a vehicle with good engine performance for driving at high elevations.

Durability: A vehicle designed for rugged terrain is a bonus for peace of mind.

Space: If you’re eloping, ensure the vehicle has enough cargo space.

For ease of access and safety, always check the latest road and weather conditions before heading to Brainard Lake Recreation Area, especially during shoulder seasons when conditions can change quickly.

How to Obtain Your Marriage License for Your Lake Isabelle Elopement

Choose a County Clerk’s Office

Marriage licenses can be obtained at any county clerk’s office in Colorado. Since Lake Isabelle is in Boulder County, the Boulder County Clerk’s Office is a convenient option. However, licenses are valid statewide, so you can obtain one from any county in Colorado if that better fits your travel plans.

Application Requirements

Both parties must appear in person to apply for a marriage license. However, in certain cases (such as if one party is out of state or unavailable), an absentee affidavit can be arranged, allowing one partner to apply on behalf of both.

Identification: Bring a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport.

Fee: The marriage license fee in Colorado is $30, payable by cash or card depending on the office.

Other Important Marriage License Information

No Waiting Period: Colorado has no waiting period, so you can use the license immediately upon issuance. This flexibility makes it easy for couples who want to pick up their license shortly before their elopement.

License Validity: Once issued, the marriage license is valid for 35 days. This is helpful for couples who want to pick up their license early to allow extra time for travel and planning before their ceremony.

Unique Benefits of Colorado Marriage Law for Eloping Couples

Self-Solemnization

Colorado is a state that allows self-solemnization. This means you don’t need an officiant to legally marry you—you and your partner can marry yourselves simply by signing the license. For couples eloping at Lake Isabelle, this is a major advantage, as it allows you to keep the ceremony entirely private and personal.

This also means there’s no need to coordinate with a third-party officiant, making it ideal for couples who want an intimate, nature-focused elopement.

Colorado does not require witnesses for a marriage to be legal. You and your partner can complete and sign the marriage license without anyone else present, which is particularly convenient if you’re planning a private elopement without any guests.

Returning the License and Finalizing Your Marriage

After your elopement you’ll return the signed marriage license to the county clerk’s office where it was issued.

Fill Out the License: After your ceremony, complete the license by filling in the required information, including your names and signatures. If you opted for a self-solemnized ceremony, no officiant or witness signatures are necessary.

Return the License: The completed license must be returned to the county clerk’s office within 63 days after your ceremony. You can return it in person or by mail. If returned after this period, there may be additional fees for late processing.

Requesting Certified Copies: Once the license is processed, you can request certified copies for official records. These copies are often needed for name changes, legal purposes, or as keepsakes. Certified copies can typically be ordered directly from the county clerk’s website or in person.

Additional Tips for Out-of-State Couples

Arrive Early: If you’re traveling from out of state, plan to arrive a day or two early to pick up your marriage license and acclimate to the elevation.

Timing with County Office Hours: Most county offices are closed on weekends and public holidays. Make sure to visit on a weekday and check their website to see when they are open!

I’d Love to Help you Plan Your Elopement at Lake Isabelle!

Reach out here to get started.