Discover the Best Places to Elope in Colorado
insider tips and top picks from a colorado local
Colorado – where couples come to elope in some of the best places nature has to offer. I’m talking turquoise blue alpine lakes, quaint mountain towns, waist high wildflowers, mountainsides covered in what looks like fairy dust when the seasons change, and really big mountains, like, realllly big. I get why you landed on this page – you’re looking to elope and you want to know some the best places to do it. I’m Kelly – I live in Colorado and have photographed and helped couples elope full time for 4 years now, and I’m here to give you what you came here for – a list of the best places to elope in Colorado.
In this guide, i’ll list out places i’ve photographed, as well as some places I haven’t yet (but dying to!). I’ll break it down by city, and some exact locations, even go over some venues if you’re eloping with family. I’ll give you all the info you need to know for each spot to help you make your decision. Things like permit requirements, how many guests that location can accommodate, costs, where exactly it is on the map, and arguably the most important – whether or not dogs are allowed.
And the good news? Whether you’re looking for a secluded place in the wilderness just for the two of you, or a more accessible location that can accommodate friends and family of any age and mobility level, there’s a perfect place in Colorado to match the wedding location of your dreams!
But first, who am I?
hi, i’m kelly! (that’s me <<<<)
Colorado is more than just beautiful backdrop for me; it’s home. The mountains play host to my everyday adventures, making me the local you’ve been looking for. Whether it’s hiking in the front range, or exploring the turquoise blue lakes in the San Juan’s, I’ve got the experience to lead you through both the natural wonders and the perfect shots for your Colorado elopement.
Although I’m not originally from Colorado, the mountains called to me and now I call them home. Grand Junction, CO is my home now! Just 30 miles from the Utah border, an hour and a half from Moab, and an hour and a half from Telluride, two hours from Breckenridge – I could keep going but I just love how it’s the perfect “junction” (see what I did there). It’s the best. I couldn’t think of a better place to call home, and to work and play!
This business has become so much more than a job and I feel truly honored to call so many clients my friends. It would be a pleasure to work with you and your soon-to-be spouse as we plan and execute your dream Colorado elopement in the places I now call home.
These are the best places to elope in Colorado
Ouray
Starting off with my personal favorite place to take my couples, Ouray, Colorado, which is now most famously known as “the Switzerland of America.” This former mining town has everything Colorado has to offer. Waterfalls, alpine forest, 4×4 roads that offer access to amazing natural settings, wildflowers that are waist high, turquoise blue alpine lakes, and endless mountain views for the perfect mountain backdrops for your elopement pictures. And it all sits just right outside of the town of Ouray, so you don’t have to travel too far away from where you can stay.
Best Time To Elope Here: Summer. For those who love wildflower meadows, and the lush greenery the summer season has to offer, Ouray is where you want to elope!
Best Time Of Day For Photos: If you’re planning to elope on the weekend, sunrise will be the best time to elope in Ouray to guarantee privacy.
How Many Guests Can It Accommodate: 10 guests
Location: Ouray, Colorado
Where it’s at on the Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/8YYg5vywtTjeCL7F8
Cost To Elope Here: Most national forest lands are free
Closest Major Airport: Montrose Regional Airport
Elevation: The town of Ouray sits at 7,792′
Wheelchair Accessible: Most public lands to elope at in Ouray are not wheelchair accessible
Are Dogs Allowed: Yes
Bathrooms: Not always
Telluride
Next up, my second favorite place to take my couples, is Telluride, Colorado. You don’t need to go far from town to get incredible mountain backdrops for your elopement here. Home to iconic places like Bridal Veil Falls, Black Bear Pass, and Blue Lakes, it offers quite the variety for any adventure wedding or elopement.
Best Time To Elope Here: Summer of Fall. In the summer, the waterfalls are roaring and make for great pictures. In the fall the aspens turn the mountainsides into a sea of fall foliage that is hard to beat!
Best Time Of Day For Photos: If you’re planning to elope on the weekend, sunrise will be the best time to elope in Telluride to guarantee privacy.
How Many Guests Can It Accommodate: 6-15 guests
Location: Telluride, Colorado
Where it’s at on the Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/it6ePVdsvTPi1Gy36
Cost To Elope Here: Most national forest lands are free
Closest Major Airport: Montrose Regional Airport
Elevation: The town of Telluride sits at 8,754′
Wheelchair Accessible: Most public lands to elope at in Telluride are not wheelchair accessible
Are Dogs Allowed: Yes
Bathrooms: Not always
Great Sand Dunes National Park
When most people think of Colorado, they think of frozen landscapes and snowy mountain peaks. But Great Sand Dunes National Park proves just how diverse the natural splendor of Colorado really is. The park is a beautiful desert located in the southern part of the state. The rolling dunes and the mountains beyond provide a one-of-a-kind view that makes for truly stunning Colorado elopement photos!
Best Time To Elope Here: Early autumn. The dunes can get quite hot in the summertime, so autumn is the perfect time to enjoy the beauty of the dunes without burning your feet!
Best Time Of Day For Photos: Sunrise or sunset, especially since the sun is quite hot in the park during the day.
How Many Guests Can It Accommodate: 40-50
Location: Mosca, Colorado
Where it’s at on the Map: https://goo.gl/maps/xrnRtmQCdSsmHgVx7
Cost To Elope Here: $200 for the required wedding and photography permits. There is also a $25 entrance fee per car.
Closest Major Airport: Denver International Airport
Elevation: 7,500 feet
Wheelchair Accessible: Certain campsites throughout the park are wheelchair accessible, as is the visitors center.
Are Dogs Allowed: Yes and No. Some areas allow dogs, some areas don’t
Bathrooms: Yes
Colorado National Monument
Enormous canyons and towering stone monoliths make Colorado National Monument one of the best places to elopement in Colorado, and it’s twenty minutes from my house! I’m blown away every time I go here, and i’m always excited to show people my favorite places to take stunning adventure elopement photos.
Kat + Luke’s Colorado National Monument Engagement Session
Check out Kat + Luke’s engagement pictures at the Colorado National Monument!
Best Time To Elope Here: The monument is beautiful year-round, from its gorgeous snowfalls in the winter to its colorful leaves in the fall, so the time of year you go depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for!
Best Time Of Day For Photos: Sunrise, especially if you’re having a summer elopement since the monument can get quite hot later in the day.
How Many Guests Can It Accommodate: 15-50 guests, depending on the venue.
Location: Grand Junction, Colorado
Where it’s at on the Map: https://goo.gl/maps/qWzqxYXs2GsXj1wB9
Cost To Elope Here: $150 for required permits.
Closest Major Airport: Grand Junction Regional Airport
Elevation: 4,700 feet to 7,028 feet
Wheelchair Accessible: Certain campsites throughout the park are wheelchair accessible, as is the visitors center.
Are Dogs Allowed: No
Bathrooms: Yes
Eleven Mile State Park
Eleven Mile State Park surrounds the gorgeous Eleven Mile Reservoir, and the mix of this majestic body of water and the adjacent forests make this one of the most unique locations for a Colorado wedding.
The park is usually not very crowded, so it’s easy to find a spot where it’s just you, your guests, and the crystal clear waters of the reservoir. If an intimate and secluded setting is what you’re looking for, Eleven Mile State Park is a great choice.
Sarah + John’s Eleven Mile State Park Elopement
Check out Sarah + John’s Eleven Mile State Park Elopement.
Best Time To Elope Here: It all depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for! Spring and summer are amazing times of year to take advantage of Eleven Mile State Park’s natural beauty. You might even get a chance to see the fish jumping in the reservoir! However, in the winter, the park is covered in a beautiful blanket of snow and the reservoir turns into a beautiful lake of crystalline ice. In the fall the aspens turn golden yellow, and there are a few aspen trees here, so if you’re wanting a location with lower elevation, water, easy to get to, and private, with aspens and mountains as your background this is your spot!
Best Time Of Day For Photos: Sunrise and sunset. The lighting is perfect and reflects beautifully off the water!
How Many Guests Can It Accommodate: Eleven Mile State Park can accommodate up to 15 guests.
Location: Lake George, Colorado
Where it’s at on the map: https://goo.gl/maps/yCYx4FLbHePGvjm89
Cost To Elope Here: $10 per vehicle for a daily pass.
Closest Major Airport: Denver International Airport
Elevation: 8,597 feet
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Are Dogs Allowed: Yes
Bathrooms: Bathrooms at the state park’s campsites are available at the park’s camper services building from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day, but otherwise bathroom access is limited.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Towering mountains, forests filled with aspen trees, and awe-inspiring alpine tundra are just some of the amazing things you’ll see during your Rocky Mountain National Park elopement. Located in northern Colorado, the park is famous for its hiking trails and stunning vistas, so it’s perfect for couples who are really seeking what the state has to offer.
Best Time To Elope Here: The time of year you choose an adventure elopement in Rocky Mountain National Park really depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. In the summer the park is filled with wildflowers, the changing leaves provide stunning color in the fall, and the park looks beautiful covered in snow in the winter. The busiest time of year in the park is the time between Memorial Day And Labor Day, so be aware there might be crowds if you plan your adventure elopement in Rocky Mountain National Park during that time.
Best Time Of Day For Photos: Golden hour (fancy photographer lingo for the first hour after sunrise and the last hour before sunset).
How Many Guests Can It Accommodate: All wedding parties in the park are limited to thirty people. This includes the couple, the photographers, the officiant, and the guests.
Location: Estes Park, Colorado
Where it’s at on the Map: https://goo.gl/maps/ikdhngFSMZpkZFyC7
Cost To Elope Here: $300 for all necessary permits, plus $30 per car entry fee.
Closest Major Airport: Denver International Airport
Elevation: 7,860 feet to 14,259 feet
Wheelchair Accessible: Many trails in the park are wheelchair accessible.
Are Dogs Allowed: No
Bathrooms: Yes
Free Resources for your Rocky Mountain National Park Elopement
Garden of the Gods
This one-of-a-kind park with its unique and legendary rock formations is one of the most iconic locations in Colorado. It’s even been declared a National Natural Landmark, and for good reason! From the miraculous Balanced Rock to the Jaycee Plaza In the main garden to the stunning view of Pike’s Peak, Garden Of The Gods offers tons of incredible opportunities for an amazing Colorado elopement. With the park being in Colorado Springs, you’ll have many accommodations to choose from, it’s a win-win.
Best Time To Elope Here: In the spring months of March to May, the weather in Garden Of The Gods is absolutely beautiful and the views are completely unbeatable. The one thing to keep in mind, though, is that the excellent weather tends to attract large crowds. If you’d like a more secluded elopement ceremony, consider a wedding in September or October–the weather will be a bit cooler and the crowds will be a bit smaller!
Best Time Of Day For Photos: Sunrise or sunset
How Many Guests Can It Accommodate: Wedding locations like the main garden can accommodate up to 50 guests, while other locations like Three Graces Plaza are limited to 25 guests.
Location: Colorado Springs, Colorado
Where it’s at on the map: https://goo.gl/maps/bcCSoip6Q7mWRKkXA
Cost To Elope Here: $Free.99!
Closest Major Airport: Denver International Airport. The smaller Colorado Springs Airport is even closer, though flights are slightly more limited.
Elevation: 6,400 feet
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Are Dogs Allowed: Yes
Bathrooms: Yes
St. Mary’s Glacier
For the couple with a truly adventurous spirit, St. Mary’s Glacier offers a completely one-of-a-kind wedding experience. This is an honest-to-goodness real glacier right in the middle of the United States. Due to its high elevation, getting to the glacier requires a moderately difficult, mile-long hike. If you’re thinking of eloping here, definitely be sure that you’re prepared for the journey.
Best Time To Elope Here: St. Mary’s Glacier is a great location to get married year-round, depending on what you’re going for. It offers all 4 seasons, but doesn’t have many aspens so if you’re looking for golden aspens this wouldn’t be your pick. In the summer it’s lush and green, and in the winter it’s covered in snow!
Best Time Of Day For Photos: Lighting is best at either sunrise or sunset. Sunrise is particularly great because you can beat the crowds!
How Many Guests Can It Accommodate: While there’s no hard limit on the number of guests you can bring, with the rugged hike and rocky terrain it’s probably a good idea to limit your group to between 10 and 15 guests.
Location: Idaho Springs, Colorado
Where it’s at on the map: https://goo.gl/maps/nythqKtYY4cP84P46
Cost To Elope Here: $Free.99!
Closest Major Airport: Denver International Airport.
Elevation: 11,200 feet
Wheelchair Accessible: No. The rocky trails are not well-suited for wheelchairs.
Are Dogs Allowed: Yes
Bathrooms: There are some portable bathrooms at the beginning of the trail.
Sapphire Point Overlook
This amazing mountain overlook offers unbelievable views of the mountains and Lake Dillon. There are plenty of scenic vistas for some truly amazing Colorado wedding photos!
Sapphire Point Overlook Wedding Guide
Read more about having your adventure wedding at Sapphire Point Overlook
Best Time To Elope Here: Spring and summer
Best Time Of Day For Photos: Sunset
How Many Guests Can It Accommodate: Up to 30
Location: Dillon, Colorado
Where it’s at on the map: https://goo.gl/maps/XxrwGJwgzyyScMQ96
Cost To Elope Here: A wedding ceremony at Sapphire Point requires both a wedding permit and a paid reservation for a 2-hour time slot. In total, the cost is around $118.
Closest Major Airport: Denver International Airport
Elevation: 9,500 feet
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Are Dogs Allowed: Yes
Bathrooms: Yes
San Sophia Overlook
This mountaintop overlook is accessed via the Telluride gondola and it’s absolutely breathtaking. San Sophia Overlook has amazing views of the surrounding mountains and the nearby town of Telluride. Weddings are held on a wooden deck in a grass amphitheater which makes this overlook a perfect spot for couples with a large guest list!
San Sophia Overlook Wedding Guide
Read more about having your adventure wedding or elopement at San Sophia Overlook
Best Time To Elope Here: While San Sophia Overlook is beautiful year-round, certain amenities, including a bespoke yurt for the bridal party, are only available in the summer.
Best Time Of Day For Photos: The venue requires all music to end by 6:00 p.m., so if you want some candid shots of your ceremony, it’s best to book a photo session for the morning or afternoon.
How Many Guests Can It Accommodate: 200
Location: Telluride, Colorado
Where it’s at on the map: https://goo.gl/maps/NQgziuW9KcdtiYaSA
Cost To Elope Here: $5,000 (price includes in-house catering)
Closest Major Airport: Montrose Regional Airport
Elevation: 10,540 feet
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Are Dogs Allowed: Yes
Bathrooms: Yes
Bridal Veil Falls
The majesty of Colorado’s natural beauty is on full display at Bridal Veil Falls. At 365 feet, it’s the highest waterfall in Colorado. The falls are surrounded by scenic hiking trails and they’re capped with an extremely cool hydroelectric power plant dating all the way back to 1907! The natural splendor and sheer variety of Bridal Veil Falls make it an awesome place for a Colorado elopement.
Renee + Andrew’s Elopement at Bridal Veil Falls
Check out Renee + Andrew’s Telluride hiking elopement at Bridal Veil Falls!
Best Time To Elope Here: There’s no wrong time of year to visit Bridal Veil Falls! The spring and summer are excellent times to see the falls in action, and in the winter the falls freeze and create gorgeous ice formations.
Best Time Of Day For Photos: Sunrise, to beat the crowds.
How Many Guests Can It Accommodate: Due to the challenge and length of the hiking trails, I recommend limiting yourself to only a few adventurous guests.
Location: Telluride, Colorado
Where it’s at on the map: https://goo.gl/maps/xbE6okJk6494pGRH7
Cost To Elope Here: Free!
Closest Major Airport: Montrose Regional Airport
Elevation: 10,279 feet
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Are Dogs Allowed: Yes
Bathrooms: No
Officers Gulch
This beautiful, glassy pond is surrounded by alpine forests and offers a stunning reflection of the Tenmile Mountain Range. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely hike and offers plenty of secluded spots for a beautiful Colorado elopement or adventure wedding.
Best Time To Elope Here: Summer and fall
Best Time Of Day For Photos: Sunrise or sunset
How Many Guests Can It Accommodate: 20 to 30
Location: Frisco, Colorado
Where it’s at on the map: https://goo.gl/maps/JSzKavWvWceqCtJ56
Cost To Elope Here: $Free.99!
Closest Major Airport: Denver International Airport
Elevation: 9,500 feet
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Are Dogs Allowed: Yes
Bathrooms: No
Estes Park
Located in Northern Colorado, and is the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park is a charming mountain town with a lot to offer.
Best Time To Elope Here: There’s no wrong time of year to visit Estes Park! You can expect gorgeous scenery the entire year.
Best Time Of Day For Photos: Sunrise, to beat the crowds.
How Many Guests Can It Accommodate: I would recommend staying under 8 guests on public lands.
Location: Estes Park, Colorado
Where it’s at on the map: https://goo.gl/maps/xbE6okJk6494pGRH7
Cost To Elope Here: Free!
Closest Major Airport: Denver International
Elevation: 7,522 feet
Wheelchair Accessible: Some are but limited
Are Dogs Allowed: Yes and no. Be sure to check!
Bathrooms: Yes
a few more locations i haven’t photographed yet!
These are a few locations that I really wanted to include in The Best Places to Elope in Colorado list that I haven’t photograhed at yet. So if you have your heart set on one of these 4 below, shoot me a message and let’s start planning. I’d love to shoot here!
Chautauqua Park
Chautauqua Park is one of the most popular trailheads in the entire city of Boulder, and for good reason – it has amazing hiking trails and stunning views that make it perfect for a Colorado elopement location.
Best Time To Elope Here: The park is beautiful year-round, but weekdays are best to avoid extremely heavy crowds.
Best Time Of Day For Photos: Sunrise.
How Many Guests Can It Accommodate: 40-50 at designated ceremony sites.
Location: Boulder, Colorado
Where it’s at on the map: https://goo.gl/maps/9HGyKqdjBQrVp4GT6
Cost To Elope Here: $50 for required permits.
Closest Major Airport: Denver International Airport
Elevation: 5,170 feet
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Are Dogs Allowed: Yes
Bathrooms: Yes
Dunton Hot Springs
Dunton Hot Springs is a 19th-century ghost town located in southwest Colorado. It combines an amazing glimpse of the state’s history with stunning natural surroundings. From waterfalls and rivers to towering mountains and the hot springs that give the town its name, Dunton Hot Springs is a one-of-a-kind place to elope in Colorado.
Best Time To Elope Here: Winter, to see the town and surrounding mountains covered in snow and the gorgeous frozen waterfalls, and to enjoy the hot springs.
Best Time Of Day For Photos: Sunrise
How Many Guests Can It Accommodate: Up to 60
Location: Dunton, Colorado in the San Juan Mountains
Where it’s at on the map: https://goo.gl/maps/WZAVRLn1i5QX2x2p9
Cost To Elope Here: $2,800 for a single-day elopement ceremony.
Closest Major Airport: Montrose Regional Airport
Elevation: 8,600 feet
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Are Dogs Allowed: No
Bathrooms: Yes
Lost Gulch Overlook
From alpine forests to mountain views, Lost Gulch Overlook is an amazing elopement venue in nature with something for everyone. Located on Flagstaff Mountain in Boulder, Lost Gulch Overlook is easy to access and full of amazing places to discover.
Best Time To Elope Here: Lost Gulch Overlook offers stunning views year-round, but only the truly adventurous should plan for a winter elopement at Lost Gulch Overlook since the terrain gets easy and requires advanced hiking skills!
Best Time Of Day For Photos: Sunrise, for the best light and to avoid crowds
How Many Guests Can It Accommodate: No guests are permitted for elopements at Lost Gulch Overlook.
Location: Boulder, Colorado
Where it’s at on the map: https://goo.gl/maps/ek3y6kbUqijfeqFs5
Cost To Elope Here: $50 for necessary permits.
Closest Major Airport: Denver International Airport
Elevation: 7,600 feet
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Are Dogs Allowed: Yes
Bathrooms: Yes
Horsetooth Reservoir
A gorgeous reservoir surrounded by dense alpine forests makes Horsetooth Reservoir one of the most scenic wedding venues in Colorado! It’s a popular site, so there might be crowds, but there are also plenty of places where a couple can sneak away for a secluded and intimate ceremony.
Best Time To Elope Here: Crowds at Horsetooth Reservoir tend to be quite large in summer, so I would recommend a spring or autumn elopement.
Best Time Of Day For Photos: Sunrise or sunset
How Many Guests Can It Accommodate: 50 to 100 guests, depending on the location.
Location: Fort Collins, Colorado
Where it’s at on the map: https://goo.gl/maps/nTn4ebFo1tK4NRJP6
Cost To Elope Here: $10 for vehicle permit.
Closest Major Airport: Denver International Airport.
Elevation: 5,430 feet
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Are Dogs Allowed: Yes, but they must be leashed
Bathrooms: Yes
“I CAN NOT RECOMMEND KELLY ENOUGH. 5 STARS DOESN’T EVEN BEGIN TO COVER HOW AMAZING SHE DID. I KINDA WANT TO DO IT AGAIN THOUGH BECAUSE IT WAS SO FUN.” – BRENNA
mountain passes
Colorado is home to many beautiful mountain passes, which are navigable paths through a mountain range or high ridge. Some of the more challenging Colorado mountain passes might require a 4×4 vehicle to navigate, but others are paved and can be accessed with two wheel drive vehicles! If you’re up for a journey through some rugged terrain, an elopement on a mountain pass offers amazing opportunities for gorgeous natural surroundings and unbeatable views of some of Colorado’s most majestic peaks. Mountain passes are some of my favorite locations, and some of the best places to elope in Colorado!
Below is a list of some of my favorite mountain passes for a Colorado elopement. Keep in mind that some of these mountain passes can get a bit crowded since they offer truly amazing views of 13ers or 14ers (mountains that are at least 13,000 or 14,000 feet). However, if you plan your elopement for a weekday, you’re more likely to encounter smaller crowds!
Guanella Pass
For a pass that offers a perfect blend of stunning scenery and easy accessibility, look no further than Guanella Pass. This scenic pass climbs to the timberline and offers awesome views of the alpine tundra and the 14er Mt. Bierstadt. With its convenient location just an hour’s drive from Denver, this pass is a popular spot for both locals and visitors alike. But don’t let the crowds deter you – with its wide open spaces and breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, there’s plenty of room for everyone. And if you’re up for a bit of a hike, there are plenty of trails that will take you deeper into the wilderness, where you can exchange vows surrounded by the beauty of the Rockies.
Open Year Round: Closed in winter.
Best Time To Elope Here: Summer and fall
Best Time Of Day For Photos: Sunset. The alpenglow on Mt Bierstadt at the end of the day is something you don’t want to miss! (pictured above!)
How Many Guests Can It Accommodate: 10 – 15
Location: Smack dab in the middle of Georgetown, CO & Grant, CO
Where it’s at on the map: https://goo.gl/maps/NJvCTD9KxYSZbNP99
Cost To Elope Here: $Free.99!
Closest Major Airport: Denver International Airport
Elevation: 11,669 feet
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Are Dogs Allowed: Yes
Bathrooms: Yes
Loveland Pass
This twisting-turning mountain pass is the highest road in the nation that is open year round! So, if you’re looking for a pass that’s sure to take your breath away (literally), then Loveland Pass is the one for you! At over 11,000 feet, this pass offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. And if you’re willing to visit on a weekday, you can avoid the crowds and enjoy the scenery all to yourselves. But even on busy days, the area is so wide open that with a little leg work, you can find a secluded spot for your ceremony that will make you feel like you have the whole pass to yourself. With breathtaking views in every direction, Loveland Pass is a perfect location for couples who want to tie the knot surrounded by the beauty of the Rockies. Just make sure to pack some water and snacks to keep yourself grounded at this altitude!
Loveland Pass Elopement Guide
Read more about having your adventure wedding or elopement at Loveland Pass
Open Year Round: Yes.
Best Time To Elope Here: Summer
Best Time Of Day For Photos: Sunrise and Sunset
How Many Guests Can It Accommodate: 10 – 15
Where it’s at on the map: https://goo.gl/maps/MbCiXjFgWRPGaXmQ7
Cost To Elope Here: $Free.99!
Closest Major Airport: Denver International Airport
Elevation: 11,990 feet
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Are Dogs Allowed: Yes
Bathrooms: No
Black Bear Pass
A trip through Black Bear Pass gives you stunning aerial views of Telluride and is absolutely unforgettable. It’s a challenging pass, with dramatic landscapes and narrow passages, so chances are you’ll need a 4X4 to navigate it, but for those craving a real Colorado adventure elopement, traversing Black Bear is a one-of-a-kind thrill!
Renee + Andrew’s Elopement at Black Bear Pass
Check out Renee + Andrew’s Telluride hiking elopement at Black Bear Pass!
Open Year Round: Only open in the summer and fall.
Best Time To Elope Here: Summer and Fall
Best Time Of Day For Photos: Sunrise and Sunset
How Many Guests Can It Accommodate: None, guests are not recommended for an elopement at Black Bear Pass
Location: Telluride, CO
Where it’s at on the map: https://goo.gl/maps/V9bTeSbjKMitAqZz8
Cost To Elope Here: $Free.99!
Closest Major Airport: Montrose Regional Airport
Elevation: 12,840 feet
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Are Dogs Allowed: Yes
Bathrooms: No
Hoosier Pass
Straddling the Continental Divide, the Hoosier Pass is home to some stunning vistas, including a view of the 14er Quandary Peak.
Open Year Round: Yes.
Best Time To Elope Here: Summer and Fall. Winter or spring if you want to go snowshoeing!
Best Time Of Day For Photos: Sunset
How Many Guests Can It Accommodate: 5 – 10
Location: Smack dab in the middle of Breckenridge, CO & Alma, CO
Where it’s at on the map: https://goo.gl/maps/JvDepH9FKBrZG4nm9
Cost To Elope Here: $Free.99!
Closest Major Airport: Denver International Airport
Elevation: 11,542 feet
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Are Dogs Allowed: Yes
Bathrooms: No
Cottonwood Pass
Couples journeying through this towering 12,126-foot pass are guaranteed to be treated to stunning views of vast, colorful alpine forests. These forests surround Cottonwood Pass on all sides, and the sea of trees is absolutely breathtaking.
Open Year Round: Typically closed from October to May.
Best Time To Elope Here: Summer and Fall
Best Time Of Day For Photos: Sunrise or Sunset
How Many Guests Can It Accommodate: 20
Location: Buena Vista, CO
Where it’s at on the map: https://goo.gl/maps/5ohu9ks2ewJL8G2w9
Cost To Elope Here: $Free.99!
Closest Major Airport: Denver International Airport
Elevation: 12,126 feet
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Are Dogs Allowed: Yes
Bathrooms: Yes
a few more mountain pass locations i haven’t photographed yet!
Here are a few mountain pass locations that I haven’t photographed at yet, but still think they deserve to be on The Best Places to Elope in Colorado list! I’ve explored these areas by myself and truly think they’re great locations, so please if any of these catch your eye (not sure how they will with no pictures, BUT) let me know and let’s start planning!
California Pass
This stunning mountain pass reaches a staggering 12,960 feet and requires a 4X4 to reach its summit, but the long trek to the top is definitely worth it! California Pass offers panoramic views of the San Juan Range’s mountain peaks and the California Gulch valley far below.
Open Year Round: Impassable when heavy snowfall.
Best Time To Elope Here: Summer and Fall
Best Time Of Day For Photos: Sunrise or Sunset
How Many Guests Can It Accommodate: None, guests are not recommended for an elopement at California Pass
Location: Silverton, CO
Where it’s at on the map: https://goo.gl/maps/3jrE99jWosVoHKr88
Cost To Elope Here: $Free.99!
Closest Major Airport: Montrose Regional Airport
Elevation: 12,963 feet
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Are Dogs Allowed: Yes
Bathrooms: No
Independence Pass
Want to feel like you’re on top of the world? Then Independence Pass is the perfect spot for your Colorado elopement! With an elevation of over 12,000 feet, this pass offers sweeping panoramic views that will make you feel like you’re soaring among the clouds.
Open Year Round: Typically closed from November to June.
Best Time To Elope Here: Summer
Best Time Of Day For Photos: Sunrise
How Many Guests Can It Accommodate: 5 – 10
Location: Smack dab in the middle of Twin Lakes and Aspen, CO
Where it’s at on the map: https://goo.gl/maps/9sePdJVQpUA8RBYt8
Cost To Elope Here: $Free.99!
Closest Major Airport: Denver International Airport
Elevation: 12,095 feet
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Are Dogs Allowed: Yes
Bathrooms: Yes
Georgia Pass
This remote, unpaved road through the Front Range Mountains stretches across the continental divide. It offers amazing views of the surrounding mountains, including the 13er Mt. Guyot, and is perfect for a 4X4 adventure.
Open Year Round: Impassable when heavy snowfall.
Best Time To Elope Here: Summer
Best Time Of Day For Photos: Sunrise or Sunset
How Many Guests Can It Accommodate: 5 – 10
Location: Jefferson, CO
Where it’s at on the map: https://goo.gl/maps/TDQoQnJ48Mj5aD4h8
Cost To Elope Here: $Free.99!
Closest Major Airport: Denver International Airport
Elevation: 11,598 feet
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Are Dogs Allowed: Yes
Bathrooms: No
Berthoud Pass
Berthoud Pass is a dynamic, curving path through the Front Range Mountains that showcases the absolute best of Colorado’s natural beauty. In a single trip through Berthoud Pass, you can expect to encounter towering mountain peaks, epic canyons, beautiful waterfalls, and a truly gorgeous array of wildflowers. It’s one of my favorite mountain passes for Colorado elopements and provides a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Open Year Round: Impassable when heavy snowfall.
Best Time To Elope Here: Summer
Best Time Of Day For Photos: Sunrise or Sunset
How Many Guests Can It Accommodate: 5 – 10
Location: Winter Park, CO
Where it’s at on the map: https://goo.gl/maps/i61mJBdcMREoN8D29
Cost To Elope Here: $Free.99!
Closest Major Airport: Denver International Airport
Elevation: 11,306 feet
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Are Dogs Allowed: Yes
Bathrooms: Yes
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City Love: Exploring the Best Places to Elope in Colorado
When it comes to eloping in Colorado, the possibilities are endless. From the soaring peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the vast expanses of the Great Plains, this state is full of breathtaking landscapes that make for an unforgettable wedding experience. While some couples might prefer to exchange vows in the heart of nature, others may prefer the convenience and charm of a city elopement. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the best cities for a Colorado elopement. Whether you’re looking for a picturesque mountain town, a hip urban setting, or a quaint historic district, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s take a closer look at some of the best places to elope in Colorado, city style.
Telluride
Telluride is absolutely one of the best places to elope in Colorado! Telluride is a town as rich in history as it is in natural beauty. The town was a former center of gold and silver mining, and the Telluride Historic District still features many old storefronts from its 19th-century mining days. A walk through Telluride can feel like a journey back in time to the days of the Wild West!
These days, Telluride is best known for its majestic skiing slopes and turquoise blue alpine lakes. It’s one of the premier spots to get married in Colorado, and there are tons of amazing locations to elope. Visitors can traverse the town via a free gondola which makes stops at the San Sophia Overlook and the nearby town of Mountain Village. Mountain Village is also home to Alpino Vino, a wintertime restaurant that sits at an elevation of nearly 12,000 feet and is an excellent spot for a celebratory meal with up to 24 guests after you’ve said your vows!
Ouray
Another former mining town, Ouray is now most famously known as “the Switzerland of America.” The town’s high elevation, alpine forests, and incredible ski slopes make you feel like you’ve found a town nestled in the heart of the Alps!
The nearby San Juan Mountains offer access to amazing natural settings and perfect locations for an adventure elopement!
Breckenridge
Breckenridge’s close proximity to Denver International Airport, its wide variety of alpine hiking trails, and tons of lodging options make it a solid contender in my Best Places to Elope in Colorado list! Whether you’re planning a private ceremony with just the two of you or are inviting a handful of guests to share in the celebration, Breckenridge is a perfect Colorado elopement location.
Megan + Thomas’ Breckenridge Sunrise Elopement
Check out Megan + Thomas’ Breckenridge Sunrise elopement!
Vail
This world-famous ski resort town offers stunning mountain views that are easily accessed via a wide variety of hiking trails. Vail is surrounded by the White River National Forest, which offers countless great locations for an adventure elopement. In the fall, the sea of alpines that encircle the city turn a beautiful golden color that you have to see to believe!
Grand Mesa
My backyard! (So it’s gotta be on my list of The Best Places to Elope in Colorado 😉 ) Grand Mesa is the largest flat-topped mountain in the world, and it offers a stunning amount of variety for adventurous nature lovers. While exploring the mesa you can encounter over 300 beautiful lakes and reservoirs, epic hiking trails, and sprawling Grand Mesa National Forest. With so many different elopement locations, Grand Mesa truly has something for everyone!
Gunnison National Forest
Gunnison! The most underrated National Forest in the state! This vast forest encompasses towering mountains, majestic canyons, and over 3,000 miles of hiking trails. It offers tons of awesome spots for a secluded, intimate elopement surrounded by miles of Colorado’s natural beauty.
Keystone
This beautiful little ski town is the perfect spot for a mountainside elopement. There are lots of hiking trails that weave through gorgeous alpine forests and stunning slopes, and plenty of secluded cabins where you can spend the night in the heart of nature!
Jefferson
Jefferson is known as The Gateway To The Rockies, and it offers a stunning amount of natural majesty to explore! It’s home to numerous state parks and national forests, along with tons of hiking trails that offer scenic routes into the mountains. If eloping while surrounded by towering aspens, majestic mountains, and beautiful wildlife sounds good to you, Jefferson is definitely worth checking out!
Buena Vista
This small town is nestled between the staggeringly high Collegiate Peaks and the beautiful Arkansas River. It’s a paradise for those with an adventurous spirit, known for its whitewater rafting, awesome hiking paths, and thrilling off-road trails. It’s also home to a variety of natural hot springs! This combination of natural beauty and rugged terrain makes Buena Vista one of my favorite areas for an adventure elopement.
Crested Butte
While Crested Butte is well known for its towering mountains and world-class skiing, its beauty isn’t just limited to winter. Crested Butte has been classified as “the wildflower capital of Colorado,” and in the spring the whole area is filled with stunning, vibrant colors. The unparalleled natural beauty and thrilling hiking trails make Crested Butte a one-of-a-kind spot for an adventure elopement, with tons of amazing spots for breathtaking photoshoots!
Aspen
The awe-inspiring mountain slopes that surround Aspen have made it one of the most famous skiing destinations in the world. But Aspen’s incredible mountain views and thrilling hiking trails aren’t all this amazing city has to offer. From the clear blue waters of Crater Lake to the epic views of the Maroon Bells valley, Aspen, Colorado has countless breathtaking locations for a gorgeous adventure elopement!
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Ready to get started?
click on the little orange button below, fill out my contact form, and let’s start planning your elopement!
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Best Places to Elope in Colorado With Family
Top Venues for an Intimate Wedding
Many of the public lands listed in The Best Places to Elope in Colorado list can really only accommodate about 15 guests at most. For this reason, some couples who want to celebrate with their friends and family opt for a private wedding ceremony in the morning and then meet up with their guests to celebrate afterwards.
If this option sounds good to you, I have a few venues in mind that can accommodate a larger group:
- Rhize is the perfect blend of elegance and rustic beauty. It’s located in the heart of Pikes Peak National Forest and provides an intimate atmosphere while still being able to accommodate up to 40 guests.
- Spring Creek Ranch. The full scope of Colorado’s natural beauty is on display at Spring Creek Ranch. It’s surrounded by towering mountains, lush meadows, and sparkling rivers and streams. The event barn and majestic pavilion can accommodate plenty of guests.
- Winter Park Resort. This secluded resort in the heart of the Rockies provides a romantic, intimate atmosphere in an epic natural setting. The resort also has a selection of hotels, condos, lofts, and lodges, all nestled into the mountains and perfect for lodging all the friends and family who have traveled to celebrate with you.
- Three Peaks Ranch. This luxurious ranch sits on 160 acres of sprawling Colorado meadow at the foot of three towering mountains. It provides a stunning natural setting with all the comforts of a world-class resort, so you can rest assured that your guests will be able to celebrate in comfort.
