Chautauqua Park Engagement Session Guide

Chautauqua Park Engagement Photos

Chautauqua Park in Boulder is such a classic spot for engagement photos, and Sam and Anastasia’s session was no exception. If you’re planning your own shoot here, you’ll see why so many couples love this location — the dramatic Flatirons, rolling meadows, and golden light make for truly unforgettable photos.

Here’s everything you need to know if you’re considering an engagement session at Chautauqua!

A couple sits together on a rock with mountains and golden fields in the background.

A romantic couple relaxes in a golden meadow with mountains in the distance.

Close-up of hands embracing against an autumn backdrop.

A couple shares a joyful moment in a sunlit mountain meadow.

Planning Your Session at Chautauqua

Chautauqua Park is one of Boulder’s most popular photo locations, and for good reason. The scenery is breathtaking, with the iconic Flatirons as the backdrop and endless grassy fields that capture Colorado’s beauty. But because it’s so popular, you should be prepared for some challenges.

When we shot Sam and Anastasia’s session, there were two weddings happening at the same time, along with other photographers and hikers all over the park. The parking situation can also be a little tricky, especially on weekends. That said, Chautauqua is a large enough space that with a little walking, you can always find quiet spots to avoid crowds and get those clean, uninterrupted shots.

A couple shares an intimate moment in a sun-drenched mountain meadow.

Couple shares intimate moment standing in mountain meadow during late afternoon golden light.

Preparing for your Session at Chautauqua Park

For any session in Colorado, it’s important to come prepared for the elements, and Chautauqua is no different. With very little shade and wide-open spaces, you’ll definitely want to bring:

Water to stay hydrated.
Sunscreen to protect from the high-altitude sun.
Comfortable shoes for the rocky and dusty trails — especially if we’ll be walking up into the meadows for better views.

The trail is relatively easy, but a little bit of planning goes a long way toward making sure your session is fun and stress-free!

Two figures walk hand in hand down a winding trail at sunset.

Romantic couple dancing playfully on a dirt trail through golden grass at sunset in the mountains.

Couple embracing on mountain trail during golden hour with sunlit meadow in background.

Silhouetted couple walking together on scenic mountain path through sunlit meadow.

Permit Requirements for Chautauqua

As with most spots in Boulder’s open space areas, your photographer will need a permit to shoot at Chautauqua. If you book with me, don't worry — I’ve already got it covered! I hold an annual OSMP permit, so you won’t have to worry about any logistics when planning your session here.

Couple walking together on dirt path through golden mountain meadow at sunset.

Close-up intimate moment between couple backlit by golden sunset in mountain meadow.

Couple strolling together on scenic mountain trail through golden grass at sunset.

Two hands reaching towards each other against mountain landscape at sunset.

What Time to Shoot at the Flatirons?

Because Chautauqua Park sits right in front of the Flatirons, the sun sets a bit earlier than at other locations. If you're considering a golden hour session here, I recommend starting your shoot at least two hours before sunset to make the most of the light.

However, once the sun dips behind the mountains, there is still plenty of cool, diffused light to shoot in, and the flatirons stand out even more, so it's totally up to your preference! With Sam and Anastasia, we kept shooting for a few minutes after the sun was out of sight, and I love the variety it adds to their gallery!

If you’re up for an early morning, sunrise is another beautiful option. It’s quieter, and you'll have more of the park to yourselves, but keep in mind that the sun rises on the opposite side from the Flatirons, which will change the lighting and backdrop compared to an evening session.

Book your Session with Blythe Photo

Ready to book your Chautauqua park photoshoot? Head over to my inquiry page and shoot me a message! I can't wait to meet you and bring your vision to life!