We are among the privileged here in Colorado Springs, my friends. I grew up looking at that majestic mountain skyline, and it has never gotten old! We are blessed to live in the midst of such breathtaking scenery and views. Maybe I'm a bit snobbish in my feelings, but I've always felt that Colorado Springs is the most perfectly situated city in the nation. We may not have the lush green of some other locations, but we live in the midst of wild and beautiful mesas, valleys, prairies, evergreen forests, a majestic peak, and wide open blue skies. And while the weather can make people crazy with its lack of predictability, it can offer opportunities to get some great cloud formations rolling off the Peak, gorgeous sunsets, or snow and blooming trees in the middle of April. It's a photographer's paradise!
So, how do you choose where to have your family photos? I'll share with you my favorites and why I love them.
Palmer Park
In the heart of Colorado Springs, this majestic city park offers amazing views of Pikes Peak, canyons, white rock formations, native evergreens, gambel oak groves, and high plateau meadows that host wildflowers in summer. It is beautiful in any season. There are plenty of parking lots for easy access to breathtaking panoramas and rock formations, so it's perfect for families with kids of all ages. The variety of backdrops, foliage, and views are vast here, so it has earned my #1 spot. See the gallery of Palmer Park family and senior sessions below.
Red Rock Canyon Open Space
With its majestic red rock formations, old quarry scars, a picturesque pond, and open meadows with views of the foothills and the south slope of Pikes Peak, this location is a favorite! It's much easier to access than Garden of the Gods, but offers a similar feel. Parking is simple with three large lots to access different areas of the park. The variety of backdrops allows for creative compositions and that true "Colorado" feel! You will need shoes for walking at this location, as the most picturesque areas require a small hike. It's a particular favorite for fall photos with the aspens and grass turning golden against the rusty rock! See the gallery below for examples!
Bear Creek Park
Nestled into the foothills near Cheyenne Mountain, Bear Creek Park, in southwest Colorado Springs, has many access points and is so large, it offers many different views and opportunities. In late summer, black-eyed susans and sunflowers bloom in the meadows. Near the Bear Creek Nature Center, stands of aspen and cottonwoods glow golden along the creek, and creeping vines turn bright red. Areas near the neighborhood of Skyway allow on-street parking and a short walk to the top of the hill with panoramic views of Cheyenne Mountain to the south, the city of Colorado Springs to the east, and Garden of the Gods and the Pikes Peak foothills to the north. I love this location for its variety and easy parking, which makes it perfect for families with kids of all ages. Its variety of landscape and beauty in all seasons make it a top spot! Check out the example gallery below!
Monument Valley Park
Perfect for families with littles and those who want the option of green grass beneath their feet, Monument Valley Park in downtown Colorado Springs has so much variety! Boasting flower gardens, ponds, open grassy playing fields, natural trails with towering cottonwoods, stone walls, and mountain views, MVP has a mix of backdrops that is almost unbeatable. There are many picture-perfect views of Pikes Peak steps away from convenient parking, making it a great place for Extended Family photos and for those with mobility concerns.
Check out the gallery below to see all that this park has to offer!
Garden of the Gods
The crown jewel of our city- Garden of the Gods. I wouldn't be a proper photographer without adding in this location! It is impossible to beat the drama of this park- voted as the most beautiful park in America. With its massive rock walls, views of Pikes Peak, and beautiful foliage, this park is a paradise of options. The downside of using a popular park is, well, it is popular! Parking can be tricky, and it takes extra planning to find a time when the park will be less busy. It's perfect for sunrise sessions, Sunday sunset sessions (when it's less busy), and weekday sessions. Beautiful in every season, this park is a winner!
