TAHARAA MOUNTAIN LODGE WEDDINGS

If you’re looking for a wedding venue that truly feels like you’re immersed in the mountains, this is it. Even by Estes Park standards, Taharaa Mountain Lodge which is part hotel, part restaurant, part event venue, feels incredibly secluded, which is getting harder and harder to find in Colorado.

I’ve been photographing weddings at Taharaa since 2013, so I’ve had a lot of experience helping couples create an amazing photography experience here.

Most couples who get married at the lodge choose to include on-site lodging, which makes getting ready for the day super convenient. I’ve seen a lot of brides stay in the Cattle Baron Suite, but honestly, all of the rooms on the property are great options. And for those who prefer a different setup, there’s also an on-site salon that can accommodate an entire wedding party.

When it comes to ceremony locations, most couples go with the pergola and outdoor amphitheater. In the fall especially, the aspens behind the ceremony space turn into incredible shades of gold and orange, creating a really stunning backdrop. I typically don’t do family portraits right at the pergola since it faces southwest and can lead to some squinty eyes – but just a few steps away, there’s a nearby field with beautiful light and a forest backdrop that works perfectly.

If you’d rather stay indoors, Taharaa also offers a covered balcony for ceremonies. It’s a great option for avoiding the elements and can double as a reception space for smaller weddings as well.

For larger celebrations, couples can rent out the entire Twin Owls Steakhouse for their reception. The space is big enough to host over 100 guests and has incredible panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains in every direction.

Like many Estes Park venues, one of the biggest perks of Taharaa is how close it is to Rocky Mountain National Park. It’s less than a five-minute drive to Lily Lake, which offers some absolutely incredible scenery for wedding photos. I always encourage my couples to take advantage of this because it really adds something special to the overall experience.