Where should you do your photos?
There are so many amazing places to do photoshoots in Colorado. The list is truly endless. But, what if you don't want to drive hours or hike up the side of a mountain for that perfect shot? Well, you're in luck, because there are plenty of places to do a photoshoot that are less than an hour from Denver and extremely walkable. Here is a list of my top ten favorite places to do a photo session in and around Denver.
Union station | Denver, CO
If you're looking for an urban spot my favorite is Union Station in Denver. Not only is the building itself amazing, but there are a few really cool streets close by where you can get great back drops for a photo. You can also go behind the building a do some shots in front of the trains. One more option is to go inside of Union Station, it is absolutely gorgeous inside and is really special at Christmas time. See one of my photoshoots at Union Station.
Red Rocks Trading Post Trail | Morrison, CO
Another great spot within thirty minutes of Denver is Red Rocks in Morrison, Colorado. Trading Post Trail is absolutely beautiful with red rock formations, the hogback mountain in the background and tall grasses. This is a great option if you want a mountain vibe without going too far. It's also extremely easy to access and is a great spot regardless of the season. See one of my photoshoots at Red Rocks Trading Post Trail.
Cheeseman Park | Denver, CO
Cheeseman Park is a great spot in the city limits. It can be an excellent option during the winter due to the beautiful memorial pavilion. The memorial is made of marble in the neoclassical style with high columns and stairs perfect for photoshoots. The park also has many trees, a reflecting pool and views of downtown Denver. See one of my photoshoots at Cheeseman Park.
Matthews/winters park | Morrison, CO
For mountain views and rolling hills Matthews/Winters Park near Red Rocks in Morrison is a great spot. The park is especially pretty during fall and is a good spot during summer and spring when the leaves are on the trees. This locations is very popular and can get busy so it is recommended to go on a weekday. See one of my photoshoot at Matthews/Winters Park.
Flatirons vista | Boulder County, CO
For open fields and jaw dropping views of the Flatiron Mountains the Flatirons Vista Trail is a great place for photos. Just south of Boulder along the foothills the trail is about a 35 minute drive from Denver. The trail is relatively flat and easy to access with a parking lot just off of Hwy. 93.
Ralston Creek Trail | Arvada, CO
The Ralston Creek trail is a great spot for photos during the fall, spring and summer. It is easy to access as it has concrete paths and many different places for parking. There is a creek running through the trail, large trees, open spaces with tall grass and bridges. This location is particularly beautiful during the fall when the leaves are golden and is only a 20 minute drive from Denver. See photos from one of my photoshoots at Ralston Creek Park.
Bearcreek greenbelt | Lakewood, CO
The Bear Creek Greenbelt is another great location just 20 minutes from Denver. This spot has a ton to offers including trails with large trees, open spaces, lakes, a creek, fallen trees and stumps and if you're lucky some horses or even wildlife! This is another spot that is particularly lovely in the fall and is a great option in the spring and summer months. It is easily accessibly with concrete and dirt paths and several areas for parking.
Rino Art district | Denver, Co
For an urban and artistic spot look no further than the RINO (River North) Arts District near downtown Denver. This can be a fun and vibrant location with bright murals on the buildings, but it also has more low-key spots with vines, brick backdrops and architectural interest. This is a great spot during the winter months when the landscape is less colorful.
Downtown golden | Golden, CO
Home to the Coors brewery and located at the base of the foothills Golden has so much to offer. This is a great location if you are looking to combine some town vibes with some outdoor/mountain vibes. Clear Creek runs through the area offering an outdoor feel with bridges, rocks and trees. The Golden History park is right along the creek and has cute old buildings and barns that can add visual interest to photos. Or if you want to go full downtown there are many cute spots with brick facades, sculptures and even beautiful flowers during the spring months.
Mount Falcon Park | Morrison, CO
This popular park offers several different areas that are great for photoshoots including views of the front range mountains, historical sites (including mansion ruins), and evergreen trees offering year round interest. In some spots you can even see the red rocks from a distance offering a gorgeous panoramic backdrop. With the park being only 40 minutes outside of Denver it is a great mountain spot that is easy to get to.
These are just a few of my favorite places for photoshoots near Denver. For more ideas get in touch with me by clicking on the "contact me" page on my website.
-Kelli