Park County Locations Guide (Summer and Fall)
- Ryan Lundgren
- Apr 30
- 4 min read
Fairplay/Alma
Fairplay Beach
Best for smaller groups, but could potentially work for an extended family
Located in the heart of Fairplay, this recreation area is a popular trail with lots of wildlife and scenic views. It requires a short hike to see all of the views the location has to offer.
There are two different parking locations, if you're interested in this spot we will discuss the best option for your family based on your needs!
Valley of the Sun
Great for any type of portrait session
***Parking is incredibly limited
This mountain meadow has a gorgeous backdrop with lots of pine trees and aspens. It does not have adequate parking for more than 1-2 vehicles. Since parking is along the side of a shoulder of dirt road, it isn’t ideal if you aren’t comfortable with that. It is a short 3 minute walk to the view. We've photographed a variety of sessions here, from couples to extended and small families. Since it's more of a local's spot, there isn't a Google link. Just let us know if you'd like to see more photos we've taken here.
Pennsylvania Mountain Trailhead
Great for any type of portrait session
***Will have snow until late May/early June
This spot is typically only accessible June-September. It features wildflowers in early-mid summer and a lovely view right when you get out of the car with no hike required. Although, if you're willing to hike a bit you'll be rewarded with some insane views as shown in the Google listing at the link below. The ground is pretty level and there are lots of pine trees along with a fair amount of parking. It is located in the Valley of the Sun and requires a drive down a bumpy dirt road to access it.
Beaver Creek Trailhead
Would work for any type of portrait session
***Usually not accessible until late May/early June
This location has lots of aspens and would be a wonderful spot during the height of golden leaves in autumn. There are also a variety of wildflowers here, a nice bridge and a serene view. It isn’t super busy here and is only easily accessible June-October. To access it there is a pretty long drive in a dirt road, but no hike is required. There is a spot for parking that can be used by 1-4 vehicles.
Here is the Google pin- it does have a nice 360° photo to view
Mt. Silverheels Trail
Great for any type of session
This spot is very close to in town of Fairplay and the dirt road to get out to it isn't bad. It's a nice open field with grass and wildflowers that bloom in early summer! On the right there is a winding dirt road and even a hiking trail with aspens, pine trees and cool rock formations. Although you can hike for more woods-y photos, you don't have to if you don't want to. We love this beautiful mountain meadow!
Jefferson/Como
Kenosha Pass
Would work for any type of portrait session
This scenic location features a mountain view and sooo many aspens! It's very popular in the fall, but also has lots of parking and is extremely accessible- right off of HWY 285. It doesn't require a hike to the view and is a great option for all types of portrait sessions. Since it's the top of a mountain pass it can get a bit windy out.
Tarryall Reservoir
We haven't scouted this spot personally, but we highly recommend checking out the photos and reviews in the Google listing below. If you're looking for a great location in Jefferson, this might fit your vision perfectly!
Hartsel
Illuminations Ranch
Great for any type of portrait session
This breathtaking wedding venue belongs to some good family friends of ours. If your date is available, it's a great spot for all types of sessions and since it's private property you won't encounter random people. No hike is required to the view- the property has bathrooms and features aspens, pine trees and wildflowers along with great views.
Wilkerson Pass*
This pass would likely work for any type of portrait session. Although we've driven by it many times, we haven't had a chance to fully scout around and hike. The views are very pretty and there is great parking.
If you'd like to see more pictures from any of the spots we mentioned just shoot us a text or email! Or, if you have a particular place in mind that isn't listed above, let us know so we can check it out. We're so excited to help you find the perfect location to capture your time in the mountains!
*We haven't fully scouted or taken professional photos at spots labeled with an asterisk. Want to be the first person we shoot at one of these locations? Just tell us and we will take a look to make sure it'll be a good option for you!
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