Lost Gulch Overlook Surprise Proposal in Boulder, Colorado
Austin & Madison’s Proposal Story
Austin reached out to me about a month before his trip to Colorado with his girlfriend, Madison. They were coming out for a Red Rocks concert—just a short vacation—but he had big plans to turn it into something a little more unforgettable. He wanted to propose while they were here, and wanted help pulling it off without Madison catching on.
The trip wasn’t long, so we had to find a spot that was close to Denver, but still felt scenic and special. As soon as he mentioned wanting epic views, I immediately thought of Lost Gulch. It’s one of those places where the sunset just hits. It has these dramatic cliffside views that look like they belong in a movie, and it’s super easy to get to from Boulder. Plus, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. You really can’t go wrong with it.
Once we settled on the location, we needed to figure out how to get Madison up there without raising any red flags. Austin told me she had mentioned before that when the proposal happened, she wanted to be dressed up. So, to keep things casual and still get her glammed up, I told him to take her to a nice dinner beforehand.
He went with the plan and told her they were going to dinner in Boulder, then maybe they’d catch the sunset at a scenic overlook nearby.
I showed up to Lost Gulch about 30 minutes early so that I could find the perfect angle, check the lighting, and pretend to be just some random person taking landscape photos. Austin texted me when they arrived at the parking lot and were heading out to the overlook.
Madison was dressed up and looked photoshoot ready! Austin was keeping it cool, but I could tell he was nervous. They walked out to the edge of the overlook, and I watched as he took a deep breath, turned toward her, and pulled the ring out of his pocket. Madison was so surprised and you can just feel the emotions in the photos! After the big surprise was captured we spent some time walking around at the overlook taking photos and then capped off the shoot by driving down to Chautauqua Park for some added diversity.
Why Choose to have a Lost Gulch Proposal
There are a ton of beautiful places to propose in Colorado, but Lost Gulch Overlook really hits the sweet spot—especially for couples who want those mountain vibes without needing to hike for two hours. It’s only about 15 minutes from downtown Boulder, but once you’re out on the cliffside, it feels like you’ve been transported into a whole other world.
The views up there are honestly insane. You get this full panoramic sweep of the mountains, and when the sun starts setting? GAME OVER – THIS PLACE IS EPIC. The rocks turn golden, the sky goes full cotton candy mode, and everything feels a little bit like magic. It’s the kind of place that makes you stop and go, “Wait—is this real life?”
Another reason I love Lost Gulch for proposals is because it gives you options. There are cliffS, boulders, pine trees, and trails where you can get a private moment. This is a busy location—especially at sunset—but if you go on a weekday or time it just right, you may get lucky like Austin and Madison.
For Austin and Madison, it was the perfect choice. It gave them that “wow” moment. She was all dressed up, the light was perfect, and the mountain backdrop made the whole thing feel even more cinematic. It was romantic, a little adventurous, and just low-key enough that it didn’t feel staged.
What Made this Lost Gulch Proposal Special to Me
Every proposal I photograph has something that sticks with me—and this one was no exception. First off, Austin was so thoughtful and intentional in how he wanted to plan everything. From making sure Madison felt beautiful and dressed up, to pulling off the perfect surprise without a hitch, you could just tell how much he cared. He wasn’t just trying to get the “yes”—he wanted it to be a moment she’d remember forever. That kind of effort is seriously sweet.
And then there was Madison’s reaction. She was completely caught off guard (in the best way), and the second she realized what was happening, her whole face lit up. That raw, real emotion—that’s what I live for. No posing, no prep, just a totally genuine, beautiful reaction that I got to freeze in time for them. It doesn’t get much better than that.
There was this sense of calm and joy that hung in the air afterward. The sun was setting, they were laughing and holding onto each other, and it just felt like time slowed down for a little while. It was one of those sessions where everything just clicks—the light, the mood, the connection between the two of them.
This proposal reminded me why I love what I do. Getting to witness these milestone moments—especially ones that are planned with so much love—is such an honor. It’s not just about the photos (though, yes, I’m a little obsessed with how good they turned out). It’s about helping someone create a memory that’ll live in their minds forever.
I left Lost Gulch that evening feeling really lucky to do what I do. There’s something so rewarding about being able to quietly step into a couple’s story for a few minutes and capture a moment they’ll look back on for the rest of their lives. These kinds of proposals—beautiful, personal, and full of feeling—are what it’s all about.
About the Couple: Q+A
How did you two meet, and what initially drew you to each other? We met at a local dive bar that we both happened to start working at around the same time. We connected instantly and quickly realized we had the same sarcastic humor.
When did you realize this relationship was something special? I realized quickly that he was the one for me because I was always smiling/laughing around him and would anxiously anticipate our next date!
What did you think you were coming into town for? What did you guys do on your trip to Colorado? I honestly thought we were coming to see everything that Colorado had to offer as far as scenery/views and because we had talked about visiting the place he had went to school since we started dating.
Tell me about the moment you realized a proposal was coming—did you have any idea it would happen that day? I had a feeling something was going to happen since he had planned out our evening (which I always make the plans). I was definitely doubting myself as far as thinking he was going to propose but it was not 100% off my radar!
What went through your mind the moment they got down on one knee? Well… he held the ring box upside down initially so I was thinking how do I tell him to fix it 🤣 On a serious note, I was so excited and relieved that this moment was actually happening and I could spend forever my with soulmate!
Why did you choose to propose (or be proposed to) at Sapphire Point Overlook? What made it meaningful to you? My Fiancé chose this spot and knew it was important to me that we have this moment somewhere meaningful and beautiful and I think that the overlook easily checked those boxes!
Was there anything unexpected, funny, or memorable about the day?
We ended up finishing dinner early and found another spot to have a drink which happened to have a Mariachi band that played us songs his grandparents loved to listen to!
How did you feel seeing the proposal photos for the first time? I was absolutely speechless! They were the most stunning photos and I could not wait to share them with everyone!
What are you most looking forward to as you plan your wedding or next chapter together? I am looking forward to having the same last name as our two beautiful children we have together and officially being unified.
Do you have a favorite image from the session? If so, why is it your favorite?
My favorite photo is the one of Austin covering his face while wiping away tears at the same time I am clapping with joy because it truly shows how much that moment meant to both of us! I have it as my background on my phone and I don’t know if I’ll ever change it.
Client Testimonial
“Brenna was nothing short of incredible to work with while planning my proposal. I verbalized what I had in mind and she brought it to life, just better. Brenna was very responsive leading up to the big day, offering helpful insight throughout. As a man that doesn’t plan much, that was a necessity. I can not say enough about the entire experience and the amazing pictures. Wouldn’t recommend any other photographer!” – Austin
“Brenna is an amazingly talented, professional, and super friendly photographer. She helped my Fiancé pull off a beautiful engagement and provided us with the most incredible gallery. HIGHLY recommend!!” – Madison
Important Information about Lost Gulch Overlook
How to Get to Lost Gulch Overlook?
Lost Gulch Overlook stands majestically atop Flagstaff Mountain. It offers panoramic views of Boulder to the east and the rugged front range of the Rockies to the west. This is a popular destination for tourists, providing an ideal spot to soak in some of the best views in Colorado.
Accessing Lost Gulch involves ascending Flagstaff Mountain. You will pass notable landmarks such as, Flagstaff House, the Halfway House, and Realization Point. Lost Gulch’s parking lot is reached by continuing approximately a mile along Flagstaff Road.
It is important to note that driving up to Lost Gulch can be a bit nerve racking. It is a steep, winding road that demands careful navigation. This is particularly true during fall, winter, or early spring when snow and ice pose significant threats. Adequate preparation, including snow tires and a 4WD vehicle, is crucial for safe travel. Moreover, summertime travelers should be mindful of sharing the road with cyclists. During dawn and dusk exercise vigilance for wildlife.
Photography Permits + Parking
Your photographer must obtain a permit from Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks prior to capturing your photos at Lost Gulch. To acquire the permit, you must reach out to Boulder OSMP and adhere to their application process outlined here. Additionally, your photographer must possess liability insurance and furnish a certificate of insurance to OSMP during the permit application procedure.
The fee for a limited annual permit, accommodating up to 50 visitors within one calendar year (comprising the photographer plus two clients equating to three visitors), is $50. Alternatively, an unlimited annual permit is available for $300.
If your car is not registered in Boulder County you’ll need to stop by the pay station to pay for parking. This is located at the first overlook on Flagstaff on the right hand-side of the road.
What is the Best Time of Day for Photo’s at Lost Gulch Overlook?
I generally prefer photographing at this location at sunset because I love how the sun comes through the trees and casts a beautiful glow over the city of Boulder. I also loveee blue hour at Lost Gulch Overlook because it paints the mountains such a beautiful blue and orange. Sunrise at Lost Gulch Overlook is very pretty, but it goes by very quickly. This will leave you with pretty harsh lighting as the sun gets higher in the sky.
Ready to Start Planning Your Proposal?
I would love to help you plan a proposal that knocks your partners socks off! Reach out here to get started.
