Scattering Ashes in Colorado — A Complete Guide

Everything Colorado families need to know about ash scattering laws, designated scattering gardens, Rocky Mountain National Park permits, and cremation options in the Centennial State.

Author's Note: Well, I have never been to Colorado, but my entire vision of what Colorado is like comes from decades of listening to John Denver's music, and he made it sound magical!

If you are thinking of scattering ashes in the state of Colorado, it may be helpful to know the official symbols:

  • State Flower: Rocky Mountain Columbine 🌸
  • State Tree: Colorado Blue Spruce 🌲
  • State Bird: Lark Bunting 🐦
  • State River: Colorado River 🌊
  • State Gem: Aquamarine 💎
  • State Song: "Where the Columbines Grow" 🎶
  • State Motto: "Nil sine numine" (Nothing without Providence) ✨

How Prevalent Is Ash Scattering in Colorado?

The practice of scattering ashes has become increasingly popular in Colorado, reflecting a broader national trend toward cremation and personalized memorials. In 2020, the cremation rate in Colorado was approximately 75% — one of the highest in the country. With this increase, more families are seeking meaningful and personalized ways to honor their loved ones, including scattering ashes in designated gardens, cemeteries, or Colorado's extraordinary natural landscapes.

Colorado's mountains, alpine meadows, red rock formations, rivers, and high desert plains make it one of the most naturally compelling states for outdoor ash scattering. Whether families choose a landscaped memorial garden in the Denver metro, a meadow in Rocky Mountain National Park, or a trusted mail-in service, Colorado offers a wide range of meaningful options for honoring a loved one's memory.

Colorado Laws on Scattering Ashes

Colorado has among the fewest restrictions on ash scattering of any state. There are no specific Colorado state laws governing where ashes may be buried or scattered. The key statutes governing cremation and disposition in Colorado are:

  • Colorado Revised Statutes § 25-2-111 — Authorization required before final disposition, including cremation
  • Colorado Revised Statutes § 12-135-307 — Standards of practice for cremation, including proper processing and disposition of cremains
  • Colorado Revised Statutes § 12-135-302 — Covers handling of unclaimed cremated remains

Rules by location type:

  • Private Property: Scattering on your own land is freely permitted. Scattering on another person's private property requires the landowner's consent — written permission is advisable.
  • Public Land (city and county): Colorado has few state-level restrictions, but individual cities and counties may have their own ordinances. Check with the local governing authority before proceeding.
  • Colorado State Parks: Colorado State Parks generally allow ash scattering in undeveloped areas. Contact the specific park's ranger office to confirm any location-specific rules or guidelines.
  • BLM Land: The Bureau of Land Management treats individual, non-commercial ash scattering as casual use on most Colorado BLM land. Keep ceremonies small, scatter at least 100 yards from trails, roads, and facilities, and leave no containers or markers. Confirm with the relevant BLM field office.
  • National Parks: Each Colorado national park has its own policy. Rocky Mountain National Park offers a free no-cost permit (see important note below). Other Colorado parks — including Mesa Verde, Great Sand Dunes, and Black Canyon of the Gunnison — have their own rules; contact each park directly.
  • ⚠️ Places Where Scattering Is NOT Permitted: Despite being popular destinations, ash scattering is not permitted at Pikes Peak summit, Garden of the Gods, Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, Cave of the Winds, and Seven Falls. Always verify with the specific site before making plans.
  • Scattering at Sea: For families choosing ocean scattering, the federal Clean Water Act requires remains to be scattered at least three nautical miles from shore, with EPA notification within 30 days.

Rocky Mountain National Park — Free Permit Available

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of Colorado's most popular locations for ash scattering, and the National Park Service actively facilitates this through a free, no-cost permit process. Key guidelines include:

  • Location must be away from all developed areas (parking lots, trailheads, campgrounds, picnic areas, and buildings)
  • Ashes must be scattered at least 200 feet from any water source (lake, stream, or river)
  • Ashes should be spread downwind over an area — not buried or piled
  • No markers, cairns, plaques, or objects may be left behind
  • Ceremonies should be conducted discreetly; mornings are recommended for privacy
  • Suggested scenic locations include Upper Beaver Meadows, Mill Creek Basin, Moraine Park, Horseshoe Park, and Hidden Valley

Download the application and submit by email to the park directly: nps.gov/romo — Scattering Ashes

Because permission depends on the specific location and managing authority, families considering any particular site in Colorado should always confirm requirements directly with the appropriate agency before proceeding.

Ash Scattering Gardens in Colorado

Several cemeteries and organizations in Colorado offer scattering gardens — designated, permanently maintained spaces where families may scatter cremated remains and create a lasting place of remembrance. Here are verified options:

Fairmount Cemetery — High Line Gardens Scattering Area

Location: 430 S. Quebec St, Denver, CO 80247 Phone: (303) 399-0692

Founded in 1890, Fairmount is Colorado's most prominent cemetery and Denver's largest arboretum, spanning 280 beautifully maintained acres in southeast Denver. The cemetery is home to more than 180,000 interments, three Denver Historic Landmarks, and one of the country's largest collections of Old Garden Roses. In 2011, Fairmount added High Line Gardens — a natural cremation area along the High Line Canal, near a 50-foot-tall wind chime — specifically designed for families who prefer cremation in a natural setting. The cemetery also offers ash scattering services and can assist families in planning a meaningful ceremony. Fairmount's full-time staff welcome visitors to the grounds daily for reflection, tours, and events.

Website: fairmountfuneralhome.com — Ash Scattering Services

The Cremation Gardens

Locations:

  • Parker Road: 11148 E. Dartmouth Ave, Denver, CO 80014
  • County Line Road: 5303 E. County Line Rd, Centennial, CO

Phone: (303) 743-8804

The Cremation Gardens are not-for-profit cemeteries in perpetual endowment, designed to reflect Colorado's natural beauty through native plants, water features, winding pathways, and panoramic mountain views. Founded in 2004 with a garden expansion completed in 2017, the Parker Road location has been designated an Official Wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation (Certificate #58590). Both locations offer scattering gardens, family estates, individual memorials, granite memorial walls, garden chapels, and companion and individual cremation niches. Families may also collaborate with monument designers to create fully custom memorials. The Cremation Gardens are affiliated with Horan & McConaty Funeral Homes, which provides comprehensive funeral and cremation planning support.

Website: cremationgardens.com

Evergreen Memorial Park

Location: 26624 N. Turkey Creek Rd, Evergreen, CO 80439 Phone: (303) 674-7750

Set on 100 acres in the foothills just west of Denver, Evergreen Memorial Park is a family-owned, full-service mortuary, crematory, and cemetery offering panoramic views of the Continental Divide. The property is a sanctuary for wildlife — including elk, fallow deer, and a buffalo herd — with a working animal ranch on the grounds. The park's centerpiece is a historic Barn Chapel assembled from five antique local barns, featuring stained-glass windows and a warm rustic interior. The cemetery offers scattering of cremated remains, in-ground burial, and columbarium options, along with green burial for families seeking an eco-friendly choice. The "Gardens of the Pioneers" features three restored stone and timber cabins with a distinctive memorialization option using bronze-covered cremains.

Website: evergreenmemorialpark.com

When considering scattering ashes in Colorado, always consult with your chosen location or service provider to understand their specific policies and any necessary permissions. Ensure the scattering process aligns with all local regulations and respects both the environment and other visitors.

Are There Mail-In Options for Ash Scattering Services?

Yes. Families who prefer a meaningful alternative to Colorado's land-management processes — or who simply want a peaceful, rural setting without permits or travel — may choose a mail-in ash scattering service.

Farmstead Scattering Garden is located on a working farm in northwestern Pennsylvania and offers a private, customizable mail-in experience. Cremated remains are mailed directly to the farm, where the scattering is carried out respectfully according to the options selected by the family. While this service is not located in Colorado and is not affiliated with state or federal lands, it provides a simple and meaningful option for families who value a lush, pastoral setting — a serene complement to Colorado's rugged mountain terrain.

Visit our service page at farmsteadscattering.com/collections/services, or call or text us at (814) 450-5432 to learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions About Scattering Ashes in Colorado

Is it legal to scatter ashes in Colorado?

Yes. Colorado has very few limits on where ashes may be kept or scattered. There is no specific state law governing ash scattering locations. Common sense applies: scatter discreetly, away from high-traffic areas, obtain permission from landowners or managing agencies, and always check location-specific rules before proceeding.

Do I need a permit to scatter ashes in Colorado?

No statewide permit is required. However, specific locations have their own requirements. Rocky Mountain National Park offers a free no-cost permit (recommended to apply in advance). Other national parks and monuments require their own advance permissions. BLM and state park lands generally allow discreet, private scattering. Cities and counties may have local ordinances worth confirming.

Can I scatter ashes in Rocky Mountain National Park?

Yes, with a free no-cost permit. The NPS allows scattering in RMNP but requires a permit. The location must be away from developed areas and at least 200 feet from any water source. Ashes should be spread downwind over an area — not buried. No markers may be left behind. Mornings are recommended for privacy. Download the application at nps.gov/romo and submit by email to the park.

Can I scatter ashes at Garden of the Gods or Pikes Peak?

No. Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak summit, Pikes Peak Highway, Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, Cave of the Winds, and Seven Falls do not permit ash scattering — despite being popular destinations. Always verify directly with a specific site before making plans.

Can I scatter ashes on Colorado BLM land?

Generally yes. The BLM treats individual, non-commercial ash scattering as casual use. Keep ceremonies small and private, scatter at least 100 yards from trails, roads, developed facilities, and water sources, and leave no containers or markers. Confirm with the local Colorado BLM field office for your specific planned area.

Can I scatter ashes in Colorado state parks?

Colorado State Parks generally allow scattering in undeveloped areas. Contact the specific park's ranger office in advance to confirm any guidelines or conditions for your chosen location.

Can I scatter ashes in Colorado rivers or mountain lakes?

For inland waterways, contact the managing agency — Colorado Parks and Wildlife, the Army Corps of Engineers, or the relevant BLM or National Forest office — for the specific body of water you have in mind. For ocean scattering, federal law requires remains be scattered at least three nautical miles from shore, with EPA notification within 30 days.

What if there is no scattering garden near me in Colorado?

The Denver metro area has strong options at Fairmount Cemetery, The Cremation Gardens (two locations), and Evergreen Memorial Park. For families in western Colorado, the Western Slope, or rural areas far from Denver, Farmstead Scattering Garden in northwestern Pennsylvania accepts cremated remains by mail and carries out the scattering on a private working farm. Call or text (814) 450-5432 for more information.

Can I mail ashes for scattering if I live in Colorado?

Yes. Cremated remains may be legally mailed within the United States via the U.S. Postal Service using Priority Mail Express — the only domestic carrier federally permitted to transport cremated remains. Remains must be properly packaged and labeled. Farmstead Scattering Garden can walk you through the mailing process when you contact us.

Is a funeral home required to scatter ashes in Colorado?

A licensed funeral home or crematory must handle the cremation itself. Colorado requires authorization for final disposition under CRS § 25-2-111. Once remains are in the family's custody and all paperwork is complete, no funeral home is required for the scattering itself — unless you are using a cemetery scattering garden, which may coordinate through a funeral director.

How much does ash scattering cost in Colorado?

Costs vary by provider and service type. Fairmount Cemetery, The Cremation Gardens, and Evergreen Memorial Park each set their own pricing — contact them directly for current rates. Rocky Mountain National Park's permit is free of charge (though standard park entry fees apply). Mail-in services like Farmstead Scattering Garden offer flexible options. Call or text (814) 450-5432 for details.

Can Colorado's open-air cremation laws affect ash scattering?

Colorado is the only state that permits open-air funeral pyres — specifically in the San Luis Valley in southern Colorado. This is a separate process from standard cremation and ash scattering, and requires specific arrangements. It does not affect the general rules for scattering cremated remains in Colorado.

Legal and Regulatory References


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