The Best Pagosa Springs Engagement Location: A Hidden Gem for Adventurous Couples

Why Pagosa Springs is Your Dream Spot for an Engagement Session

So, you’re engaged?! First off—huge congrats! Now comes the fun part: choosing the perfect place for your engagement session. And if you’re anything like me, you want somewhere stunning, somewhere unique, and definitely somewhere without a bunch of tourists in the background. Enter: Pagosa Springs, CO.

Let’s Capture Your Colorado Engagement Photos in Pagosa Springs

Most people know Pagosa for its hot springs (which, yes, are amazing) and the crazy-good skiing at Wolf Creek. But what if I told you there’s a hidden spot that gives you insane mountain views, wide-open meadows, and a river winding through the cliffs—all without the crowds?

Let me introduce you to Piedra Road and the Piedra River Overlook! 

Piedra Road & Piedra River Overlook: The Hidden Gem You NEED to Know About

If you want cinematic, playful, and wildly romantic engagement photos, this is the spot. 

• Dramatic cliffs that make you feel like you’re in a movie.
• Towering pine forests straight out of a dream.
• Golden hour magic with light streaming through the trees.
• Zero crowds (aka no awkward photobombers).
• A solid chance of wildlife sightings—last time I was here, a massive herd of elk just casually walked by.

And the best part? It’s completely free to shoot at. No permits, no fees—just pure, unfiltered Colorado beauty.

If you’re into adventure, take a short hike to the overlook for an even more jaw-dropping backdrop.

Meet the Couple Who Made It Feel Like a Scene from the Notebook

One of my favorite sessions ever was with a couple who grew up in Pagosa Springs. These two were all about hiking, hot springs, and just soaking up every second of being outside, so choosing Piedra Road was a no-brainer for them.

The day of their session? Absolutely unreal. The sun was hitting just right, they were laughing, dancing, and totally in their element. Their gallery? A literal dream—golden-hour glow, storybook-worthy moments, and a whole lot of love.

Planning Your Pagosa Springs Engagement or Elopement

Thinking about making a weekend out of it? Here’s what you need to know:

How to Get There & Where to Stay

• The closest airport: Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO), about 1.5 hours away
• Lodging options: Cozy cabins, luxury resorts, and even spa retreats nearby, there’s something for every vibe.
• Best time to visit: Spring through fall (winter is absolutely stunning but can get tricky with snow).

Why This Spot in Pagosa Springs is Ideal for Engagements & Elopements

• Affordable & Breathtaking: If you’re looking for a budget-friendly elopement location, this is it! No need to drop $$$ on a permit here!
• No Crowds, No Stress: it’s all about you two.
• Versatile Backdrops: mountains, rivers, forests, open meadows. You get everything.
• Perfect for Proposals Too: if you’re looking for the place to pop the question, this is it.

Want to see more cinematic couples photos in the mountains? Check out this blog!

Colorado Cinematic Wedding Photographer | Sasha Takes Pictures

If you want engagement photos that feel cinematic, creative, and so unapologetically you, let’s do this. Pagosa Springs is waiting, and I’d love to capture your love story here. Get in touch, here!