Perfect Proposal Spots in Boulder

We love a good proposal story. And one of the most important elements? The perfect setting! Whether you’ve been planning it for ages or you’ve just decided to pop the question, these romantic Boulder proposal spots are sure to elicit a big “yes!”

Already engaged? Get more ideas for your engagement and wedding photoshoots here.

Boulder Falls

Pack a post-proposal picnic and head up Boulder Canyon about 11 miles to Boulder Falls. Park in the pull-out on the left, then (carefully!) cross the road to the trailhead. From there, it’s an easy, 100-yard hike to a scenic view of the waterfall. It’s beautiful when the water is running, but we think the frozen falls offer an especially breathtaking backdrop to get engaged.

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Colorado Chautauqua

What could be more iconic than a proposal in front of Boulder’s beloved Flatirons? Or, if you’re up for a trek, secret the ring away in a backpack or pants pocket and pop the question along one of the park’s many trails, such as Wood Quarry or Royal Arch (as long as you're okay being sweaty for the big moment; this is a strenuous hike). Afterward, celebrate your new engagement with a romantic meal at the Chautauqua Dining Hall or a concert at the historic Chautauqua Community House (year-round) or Chautauqua Auditorium (summer only).

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Hot Air Balloon Ride

Hearts will soar when you plan a proposal in a hot air balloon! Book a spectacular sunrise flight with Life Cycle Balloon Adventures, Aero-Cruise Balloon Adventure or Fair Winds Hot Air Balloon Flights. Make the ask as you float above the Front Range or during the post-flight champagne or cider toast.

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Lost Gulch Overlook

Hiring a photographer to document your engagement? For dramatic proposal pics, it’s tough to beat Lost Gulch Overlook, just six miles west of downtown Boulder on Flagstaff Road. Scale the rocks at sunset, drop to one knee and let the photographer and the views do the rest.

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Flagstaff House Restaurant

Call ahead to arrange a seat at Flagstaff House's huge picture windows, or on the patio, for grandiose views of Boulder from atop Flagstaff Mountain. Then enjoy an unparalleled, old-school gourmet experience and customized desserts for your special occasion. Flagstaff House has been recognized with consecutive Forbes Travel Guide Four Star, AAA Four Diamond and Wine Spectator's Grand awards every year since 1983, so you know you and your sweetheart will be in good hands.

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University of Colorado

For lovebirds who met in college, what better place to pop the question than beneath the rosy red roofs of the CU campus or the brick bridge overlooking Varsity Lake, between the vine-covered walls of the Mary Rippon Amphitheater, or beside one of the pretty arched features common among the campus' Tuscan Vernacular architecture.

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Breweries, Wineries, Distilleries and Cideries

Swap the champagne bubbly for a locally brewed beer when you craft the perfect proposal at one of Boulder’s many breweries. Not a beer drinker? Boulder is also home to numerous wineries, distilleries and cideries so you can toast to your love with your libation of choice.

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The Flagstaff Star

This one is seasonal, but since 40 percent of proposals happen between Thanksgiving and Valentine’s Day, it’s well worth mentioning. The Flagstaff Star has been a Boulder tradition since 1947 and consists of 365 LED light bulbs strung in the shape of a star on Flagstaff Mountain from mid-November to early January. You can drive up Flagstaff Road and park in the lot just beneath the star, or hike up via the Flagstaff or Viewpoint Trails. Both trails are a little over a mile in length and gain about 900 feet of elevation. (Be sure not to damage the fragile ecosystem by going off-trail, and remember these Leave No Trace principles). Don’t forget your headlamp, a thermos of hot chocolate — and the ring!