It's about a 2 hour drive. It is recommended that you leave yourself time to adjust to the altitude prior to the wedding. Either a night in Denver before heading up the mountain, or planning to get to the VRBO on Thursday, so you can have Friday to adjust is encouraged.
Yes. You will need to rent a car to get up to the VRBO. If possible, it's encouraged that you try to work with other guests to reduce the amount of vehicles. We are only allowed 10 for the VRBO so if you are familiar with someone else going, it's best to share a car. We would not recommend Sixt. They weren't a good company when we traveled here and we ended up spending a lot more once we got on the ground. It would be best to stick with well known car company like Alamo, Enterprise, Budget, etc.
Yes! The road up the mountain has lots of quick twists and turns. If you are prone to motion sickness, we encourage you to take some before heading up the mountain.
Other what you have planned for the wedding (dressy but not formal), it's what ever you want! I've listed some places to visit near and around the VRBO. You'll need to pack based on what your plans are. Our family most likely will be spending time in the national park and have plans to bring layers because it can get cool/colder on the mountain. Socks and shoes are important if you are planning to go hiking. Also a back pack to carry water bottles and snacks. This is big game country so you could come across a bear or moose. Please be prepared.
Its encouraged! We have an onsite hot tub that we can use at any point! It is going to be summer, and you can play in the streams in the national park in certain places so it might be best for little ones to have their bathing suit too.
Ryan and I will be putting together a menu for the whole weekend and will provide it once it's complete. You are not obligated to eat what we have prepared, but you'll be responsible for your own meals if you prefer something different.
Yes! Its encouraged! You may need a timed entry permit if you are planning to enter before 2PM. You can find out more about the timed entry permits here. https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/timed-entry-permit-system.htm
Yes! It is bear country so be mindful. Ryan and I saw elk, deer, all kinds of birds and butterflies when we traveled here in October. You might even get to see a moose if you're lucky!
We know it's cliche to say, but we appreciate everyone coming to our wedding and your presence is present enough. If you insist on a gift, we would prefer it be shipped to our home to open after the wedding as we will be traveling with the kids and won't have room to take things home.