I don’t think I’ll ever be able to top this Lost Mine Trail proposal at Big Bend National Park.
Jorge knew from the beginning that he wanted to propose on Lost Mine Trail, one of the most iconic hikes in Big Bend National Park. The trail already held meaning for him and his girlfriend, Olivia—and now, he was ready to make it unforgettable.
I first met Olivia and Jorge back in 2021, when Olivia surprised him with a photo session while they were visiting the Texas Hill Country. She told me Jorge was always the one dreaming up elaborate surprises, so she wanted to give him one of his own. So when Jorge reached out to plan a surprise proposal, I couldn’t wait to help bring it to life.
The two of them originally met through a hiking club. They spent some of their favorite moments exploring Big Bend together.
When it came time to choose the perfect proposal spot, we kept coming back to the Lost Mine Trail.
With sweeping desert views and a summit that feels otherworldly, it is the ideal place to ask a life-changing question.
To pull off the surprise, I posted a fake model call on Instagram for a couple’s session at Big Bend. Jorge made sure Olivia saw it, and she messaged me right away to volunteer. The day of the proposal, we set out together on the Lost Mine Trail and took portraits along the way.
At the top—surrounded by golden light, mountain air, and absolute stillness—Jorge got down on one knee. Olivia said yes!
And then… it was time for the harrowing journey back down the mountain in pitch-black darkness. (The only part of the day I’d rather not relive!) But every step was worth it.
I’m so glad Jorge got to ask Olivia to marry him at the top of a mountain, and that I got to bear witness to such a meaningful, unforgettable moment. I’m excited to share a few of my favorite photos from the hike. It was truly a journey, in every sense of the word.
Looking for a photographer to help you plan your surprise proposal? Contact Tess Leslie today.
