Northern Colorado is home to some of the most stunning and picturesque landscapes that make for perfect engagement photo locations. Whether you’re looking for rustic charm, mountain backdrops, or serene waterscapes, the Northern Colorado area offers a variety of photo-worthy settings. If you’re planning an engagement session near Fort Collins or in Northern Colorado, I’ve got you covered with the best locations to capture those beautiful moments.

1. Horsetooth Reservoir

Located just west of Fort Collins, Horsetooth Reservoir offers breathtaking views of the foothills and the reservoir itself. The unique landscape, with its rocky terrain and sprawling shoreline, creates a dynamic backdrop for engagement photos. Whether you want a sunset session with reflections on the water or dramatic shots against the mountainous backdrop, this is a top choice for couples.

Why it’s perfect:

• Expansive lake and mountain views
• Variety of landscapes including trails, rocky outcrops, and calm waters
• Sunset views that provide golden hour lighting

2. Lory State Park

Lory State Park, also just a short drive from Fort Collins, features picturesque rolling hills, wildflower fields, and a range of scenic overlooks. The park’s diverse terrain offers a mix of open spaces and wooded areas, giving couples the flexibility to choose the vibe that suits their style. Plus, with the stunning views of the foothills and Horsetooth Rock, this is one of the most beloved photo locations in Northern Colorado.

Why it’s perfect:

• Lush greenery and wide open meadows
• Close proximity to Fort Collins, easy access
• Views of Horsetooth Rock for iconic shots

3. The Cache la Poudre River

If you want to add some natural elements and want water in your engagement photos, the Cache la Poudre River provides the perfect setting. With its sparkling waters and surrounding wooded areas, the river offers a more intimate and serene atmosphere for your shoot. There are plenty of spots along the river with scenic trails that allow you to capture moments by the water, amidst the forest, or on nearby rocks.

Why it’s perfect:

• Peaceful riverside settings
• Picturesque bridges and forests
• Plenty of hidden spots for intimate photos

4. Rocky Mountain National Park

For couples who love the idea of mountain landscapes, Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the best engagement photo locations near Fort Collins. Known for its rugged mountains, alpine lakes, and wildflower-filled meadows, the park provides a majestic and dramatic backdrop that will make your photos unforgettable. The park is especially beautiful during sunrise when the morning light paints the peaks in soft hues. Check out some of the best locations in Rocky Mountain National Park in this post: “How To Elope in Rocky Mountain National Park”

Why it’s perfect:

• Iconic Rocky Mountain views
• Abundance of lakes and scenic vistas
• Versatile photo opportunities throughout the park

5. Downtown Fort Collins

If you prefer a more urban setting, downtown Fort Collins offers a charming blend of historic architecture, vibrant street art, and quaint alleyways. Capture the essence of your love against the backdrop of Victorian-style buildings, colorful murals, and cozy cafés. The area’s laid-back atmosphere and picturesque streets make it ideal for couples who want a more modern and intimate engagement session.

Why it’s perfect:

• Vibrant, colorful cityscapes
• Historic architecture and charming street art
• Perfect for a blend of urban and personal photos

6. Devil’s Backbone

Located just outside Loveland, Devil’s Backbone offers a dramatic setting with its distinctive rock formations and sweeping views of the plains and foothills. This location is perfect for couples who want a unique and bold setting for their engagement photos. The area also has several trails that lead to fantastic photo locations, where the light and shadows work together to create ART.

Why it’s perfect:

• Unique rock formations for striking photos
• Panoramic views of the plains and mountains
• A bit of a hike for adventurous couples

7. Carter Lake

Another great location for couples who love the outdoors is Carter Lake. Located west of Loveland, Carter Lake provides stunning lakefront views. With its lush surroundings and quiet atmosphere, it’s an ideal location for an intimate engagement shoot. The lake, combined with the surrounding hills, creates a tranquil environment, perfect for couples who want natural, serene photos.

Why it’s perfect:

• Calm waters ideal for reflection shots
• Peaceful and secluded atmosphere
• Beautiful combination of water and mountainous terrain

8. Poudre Canyon

For a more rugged and wild setting, Poudre Canyon offers towering cliffs, deep forest, and rushing waters. This area is perfect for adventurous couples looking to have their engagement photos taken in a remote, awe-inspiring location. The winding road through the canyon also offers several pull-offs with spectacular views, giving you multiple scenic spots to choose from during your photo shoot.

Why it’s perfect:

• Dramatic, rugged landscape
• Abundance of secluded, quiet spots
• Multiple scenic viewpoints for variety

9. Snyder’s Boulder Open Space

Located near Loveland, Snyder’s Boulder Open Space offers wide, sweeping views of the surrounding plains and mountains. This open space is known for its peaceful atmosphere and varied terrain, including meadows, grasslands, and rocky outcrops. It’s the perfect choice for couples who want a more private and rustic feel to their engagement session.

Why it’s perfect:

• Wide open spaces perfect for dramatic shots
• Beautiful mix of grasslands and boulders
• Quiet and secluded for a more intimate session

10. Hermit Park

Just outside of Estes Park, Hermit Park is a peaceful and beautiful location that offers panoramic views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains and valleys. The park’s variety of landscapes, from forested areas to open meadows, makes it a versatile spot for couples seeking both tranquility and natural beauty in their engagement photos.

Why it’s perfect:

• Expansive views of the mountains and valleys
• A variety of landscapes including forests and meadows
• Quiet, peaceful environment perfect for intimate photos

11. Knoll Willows Open Space

Located near Estes Park, Knoll Willows Open Space offers a stunning combination of epic mountain views and forested areas. The peaceful, natural setting provides a perfect location for rustic, intimate engagement photos. The area’s unique landscape makes for a beautiful backdrop. This peaceful location features beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and provides a natural, rustic backdrop for engagement photos. Its scenic meadows make it a great spot for couples seeking a more intimate, secluded setting.

Why it’s perfect:

• Scenic mountain views, forested areas and open fields
• Peaceful and secluded atmosphere
• Perfect for couples seeking a more rustic, natural feel

12. Viestenz-Smith Park

Just north of Fort Collins, Viestenz-Smith Park is a beautiful, serene park that sits along the Poudre River. With its lush greenery, wide open spaces, and river views, this park offers a calm, natural setting for engagement photos. It’s an ideal location for couples who want to combine forested areas with flowing water.

Why it’s perfect:

• Tranquil riverside setting with lush greenery
• Perfect blend of woodlands and open meadows
• Quiet location for a peaceful, romantic atmosphere

13. CSU Oval

The CSU Oval is one of the most iconic spots at Colorado State University in Fort Collins. With its historic buildings, stunning trees, and well-manicured lawns, the Oval provides an elegant, timeless backdrop for engagement photos. Whether you’re capturing the grandeur of the trees or the classic architecture of the surrounding buildings, this location exudes romance and beauty.

Why it’s perfect:

• Beautiful historic campus with stunning trees
• Ideal for couples looking for an elegant, classic feel
• Close to the heart of Fort Collins, perfect for a campus-themed session

14. City Park

Located in the heart of Fort Collins, City Park offers a lush, green setting with a tranquil lake and open meadows. Whether you’re near the water or surrounded by the park’s beautiful trees, this location is perfect for couples who want a peaceful engagement session close to Fort Collins, while still being close to nature.

Why it’s perfect:

• Beautiful lakeside views and parkland
• A serene and peaceful atmosphere right in Fort Collins
• Perfect for capturing intimate, nature-filled moments

15. Riverbed Ponds

Located just outside Fort Collins, Riverbed Ponds is a serene and secluded location, perfect for couples who want peaceful, intimate engagement photos. The ponds and surrounding vegetation offer a beautiful natural setting, ideal for capturing quiet moments amidst nature.

Why it’s perfect:

• Secluded and quiet for intimate photos
• Beautiful pond and surrounding natural landscapes
• Ideal for couples seeking a peaceful, serene location

Final Thoughts on Photo Locations in Northern Colorado

Whether you’re drawn to the rustic beauty of the foothills, the tranquil waters of the reservoirs, or the urban charm of downtown Fort Collins, Northern Colorado offers a variety of beautiful engagement photo locations. With so many stunning options available, it’s easy to find a place that speaks to you and captures everything on your wishlist.

Take your time exploring these scenic spots, and make sure to choose a location that resonates with you both as a couple. Wherever you decide to go, Northern Colorado’s natural beauty is sure to make your engagement photos unforgettable. If you are still looking for a location for your engagement photos or are ready to start planning your engagement session, reach out to me here. I look forward to capturing your engagement photos.