Breckenridge Elopement Guide & Locations for 2024
HOW, WHERE AND WHY TO ELOPE IN BRECKENRIDGE
If you’re planning a Breckenridge elopement, then you’re in the right place! Snuggled right into the mountains of the Ten Mile Range, Breckinridge is in the heart of the Continental Divide – we call these peaks on peaks on peaks! Add in some alpine lakes and some of the prettiest wildflowers in the summer and brilliant foliage in the fall, and it’s no wonder Breckenridge elopements are super popular for locals and visitors!
This charming town is action-packed and has a lot to offer for outdoor enthusiasts, vacations, and awesome elopements! I’m Sean, your Breckenridge elopement photographer, and I’ve worked with over 30 couples on their Breckenridge elopement, and know the area like the back of my hand. I’ve been photographing elopements in Breckenridge, hiking the trails, tapped into the local breweries, and skied the best slopes in the past decade and I’m stoked to share my love for this place!
You’d be hard-pressed to find a downside to eloping in Breckenridge between its amazing scenery, food, slopes, and hiking trails. Breck, as the locals call it, is really is an awesome spot to enjoy the days before and after your elopement, as it packs in plenty of things to do ensuring you’ll never get bored. It wears every season like a glove and is a favorite spot for local Coloradans.
Ready for the lowdown on my tips and tricks from your Breckenridge elopement photographer? Keep on reading!
“Sean was an endless book of knowledge. Though we lived in Illinois and traveled to Breckenridge, he made sure that we had zero worries and that all questions and concerns were answered well before the day! The day when we first met Sean in person it felt like we had known him the entire year. Sean knew the right spots in Breckenridge and was super accommodating the whole time whether we needed water breaks or just to stop to soak in the view to enjoy the day fully. If you’re looking for a little to stress-free wedding. Sean is your guy! “
-Jesse & Kate
5 INSIDER TIPS TO KNOW FOR YOUR BRECKENRIDGE ELOPEMENT
- In my eyes, Breckenridge embodies the perfect chance to venture through Summit County for your elopement, embracing Silverthorne, Keystone, Dillon, and Alma along the way.
- Breckenridge sits close to several mountain passes like Hoosier, Loveland and Boreas, providing fantastic spots for off roading elopements at sunrise or sunset. These spots are perfect for visitors craving awe-inspiring views without being acclimated to the altitude.
- Breckenridge tends to get quite pricey during its peak seasons: fall, summer, and winter. Looking to cut costs on lodging for your Breckenridge elopement? Aim for the shoulder season!
- I’ve really noticed that the trailheads around here have taken a beating over the last five years due to overcrowding and lack of care, resulting in some closures or shifts to shuttle services. It’s crucial to be responsible with parking during your Breckenridge elopement and always adhere to Leave No Trace principles.
- One of my favorite parts of Summit County, there’s no shortage of breathtaking family ceremony sites. Just remember to secure your reservation before encroaching on another couple’s Breckenridge elopement! You definitely don’t want to be “that couple,” and especially not “that photographer”!
BEST TIME OF YEAR TO ELOPE IN BRECKENRIDGE
Let’s just go ahead and tackle the one consistent for every season: For those unacquainted with Breckenridge, weekend traffic along I-70 to Denver can escalate into a significant ordeal, especially during accidents or snowstorms, resulting in hours-long delays. It’s advisable to arrive at the elopement destination in Breckenridge several days ahead to preempt such challenges.
Flexibility regarding scheduling is paramount. Scout potential elopement locations in Breckenridge prior to setting a date to maximize options. Midweek elopements are notably easier to arrange, given the hectic tourist activity on weekends.
Other than that, eloping in Breckenridge year-round is a great choice but keep reading below for more tips on the best months to elope in Breckenridge:
• SPRING
At nearly double the altitude of the Denver area, Breckenridge boasts a prolonged snow season, making it an ideal choice for skiing enthusiasts and snow aficionados alike. Spring typically commences in May, but lingering snowfall into early June, and even late June during cooler springs, is not uncommon. Personally, I love spring and it’s a great time still because you have access to a bunch of places. Even A basin is open til past May!
• SUMMER
Summer in Breckenridge is where it’s at, with temperatures rarely exceeding the upper 70s. This is my favorite time of year, as the landscape bursts into a profusion of wildflowers shortly after the 4th of July, lasting through early September. For those seeking to avoid crowds, aiming for midweek adventures can offer a more serene experience and you can avoid the daunting I-70 traffic. I wouldn’t touch this area for holiday weekends but otherwise, come for July and August and enjoy the warm weather and greenery!
• FALL
I remember my first fall in Breckenridge as a magical season, where the aspens transform into hues of amber and gold. If you are leaf hunting for your Breck elopement, I suggest planning for that last week of September to the first week of October, otherwise you might be too early or too late! As mid-October approaches, the crisp mountain air hints at imminent snowfall, signaling the beginning of winter elopement opportunities amidst the picturesque landscapes.
• WINTER
From December to April, there’s no shortage of elopement activities to enjoy in the area with a number of ski resorts ready to host you. Planning an elopement in Breckenridge and its neighboring areas, like Silverthorne or Keystone is also great options for the winter time!
“A review isn’t enough! Not only are you a legitimate elopement ninja, but Sean’s energy was exactly what we needed to kick off a lifetime together. Everything from start to finish was amazing and the photos really captured all of the moments we shared together for our elopement in Breckenridge.”
– Elizabeth and Chris
BEST PLACES TO ELOPE IN BRECKENRIDGE
One of the great things about Breckenridge elopements is that you have a super small wedding at the base of the mountain, or right along the shores of 7 different alpine lakes. Or, if your guest list is long, there are a lot of great lodges that have all the amenities. Finding things to do for your elopement in Breckenridge won’t be a challenge, I guarantee that!
And after your ceremony, there are so many great little locally-owned brewpubs, restaurants in Breckenridge, and more to do outside like hiking, mountain biking, fly fishing, and white water rafting. It’s just an awesome area to send family off on their own so you don’t have to be a tour guide!
Here are some of the best places to elope in Breckenridge!
BLUE LAKES ELOPEMENT
This might be hard to believe, but eloping in Colorado feature’s over 2,000 alpine lakes! And eloping in Breckenridge narrows it down and gives you the options of some of the better ones within the front range and you’ll be sure to catch some early morning reflections, wildflowers, and even wildlife!
Many of these lakes are conveniently located near the town of Breckenridge, so you can minimize your early morning commute and enjoy a bit more sleep before your Breckenridge elopement. It’s as if they’re lined up for us to pick from! Moreover, these lakes face west, ensuring optimal lighting at sunrise, with the sun casting its stunning morning alpenglow on the surrounding peaks. What an awesome experience it will be!
CHOOSE AN EPIC WATERFALL
Another great thing about eloping in Breckenridge is the abundance of places to take photos by an epic waterfall. If you want to get married near a rushing waterfall, then there are a few locations that look great year-round and others that are more weather/rainfall dependent. As the snow melts, the rivers and streams start to roar, which leads to some epic waterfalls for your Breckenridge elopement. Most of the waterfalls require a small trek and are the best in late June through September.
HOOSIER PASS
Between Breckenridge and Fairplay, the highest point on HWY 9 is Hoosier Pass and it’s somewhere I always catch sunset if I’m passing through. It’s usually a little less crowded than nearby Boreas Pass, and not as difficult to get to, which can be important if the timing is an issue. Hoosier Pass elopements will have epic mountain and lake views. You can cross-country ski here in the winter and hike the trails nearby in the summer months.
LAKE DILLON
Lake Dillon is tucked right between the Ten Mile and Gore Mountain ranges in Breckenridge. It’s a vast lake, and with the peaks topping around it out at 14,000 feet, there are so many photo opportunities in this area it always makes my photographer’s heart pitter-patter a bit! Lake Dillon elopements can have light hiking, or we can find a secluded place, or you can also take advantage of the boat rentals and get hitched on the water with a mountain view. This is also an awesome spot to post up with a paddle board if you have some free time to lounge after your elopement!
BRECKENRIDGE LOCAL SPOTS
When it comes to Colorado elopements, Breckenridge offers a plethora of unnamed yet stunning locations that I’d love to reveal to you! I have a special affinity for spots that beckon exploration and adventure. Allow me to be your trusted guide to discover some of the best hidden gems in and around the Breckenridge area for your memorable elopement.
BEST FAMILY LOCATIONS TO ELOPE IN BRECKENRIDGE
Breckenridge offers a fantastic opportunity to include your families in your elopement. If you’re considering Breckenridge for your intimate ceremony, I recommend exploring the plethora of family-friendly ceremony spots available for rent, many of which boast breathtaking views of the surrounding Ten-mile area that I’ll go over below. From rustic mountain lodges to charming outdoor venues, Breckenridge offers a variety of options that cater to different tastes and preferences, making them incredible choices for couples looking to have a micro-weddings in Breckenridge.
Keep reading to get the lowdown on my favorite family locations in Breckenridge!
WINDY POINT CAMPGROUND
I have really come to love Windy Point over the years, because it’s so much more private than other spots in the area and way less competitive to get a reservation. Windy Point Campground is located on the bank of Silverthorne and has some of the best views of the Ten Mile Range of Breckenridge. Because Windy Point Campground requires a reservation, it is known for its seclusion, offering privacy and intimacy for couples exchanging vows in Breckenridge. This is a great elopement location in Breckenridge for couples looking to elope with their families!
SAPPHIRE POINT ELOPEMENTS
Sapphire Point makes things easy. It’s super accessible, so if you have friends or family members who aren’t up for a hardcore hike, it’s a great choice for self solemnizations or micro weddings. This is one of the few spots in Breckenridge that allows you to choose a specific time and date since most other locations just give you the permit, and you have to cross your fingers that it’s not busy.
- 2024 UPDATE: Sapphire Point is currently undergoing enhancements for interments throughout the year and will remain closed during this period. Please note that specific dates and months may not be accessible for elopements.
MARINA PARK PAVILION
This spot right here, it’s a real hidden gem and a spot I love, boasting some of the most breathtaking vistas of Lake Dillon. And it won’t break the bank despite its prime location near Breckenridge. But here’s the scoop: you can only snag this beauty from Monday to Friday, and it’s strictly a summer affair as it’s closed October 1st – April 30th. So, if you’re aiming for those stunning view, family friendly and budget-friendly vibes, mark your calendar and make your move!
HOW AND WHERE TO GET YOUR MARRIAGE LICENSE IN BRECKENRIDGE
After we take some fantastic photos of your day, it’s time to sign your marriage license in Summit County! This courthouse is super cute and awesome for getting photos taken at! Some couples will elect to get their stuff the day before, which can leave more room for your actual elopement day. However, you can totally get married on the same day as well!
Important to note that Summit County limits their appointments to just three per day so be prompt when making an appointment.
Here is a step by step guide for how to legally get married in Breckenridge and Summit County:
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT:
Weddings and elopements in Breckenridge are exclusively conducted by appointment, which can be scheduled by calling (970) 547-2614. You can call in beforehand – Monday through Friday, with appointments available at 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, and 2:00 PM.
PICK UP AND FILL OUT LICENSE:
Both parties are required to pick up the license at the Summit County Justice Center, located at 501 N. Park Avenue in Breckenridge. Additionally, they must fill out the certificate and ensure that both signatures are present on the form.
ELOPE IN BRECKENRIDGE!
In Breckenridge, you are not required to have a witness for elopement ceremonies. You have the option to handle all aspects privately or enlist the services of an officiant to manage everything on your behalf.
DROP OF YOUR LICENSE
You need to fill out everything and send it in before 60 days. I would suggest dropping it off on the way out of town of your elopement!
BRECKENRIDGE ELOPEMENT PACKAGES
Eloping in Breckenridge is an awesome experience, and I want you to enjoy every minute! I’ve put together a Breckenridge elopement package that will help you plan out your trip, go over locations where you can get hitched, and hook you up with the best vendors in the area.
BRECKENRIDGE ELOPEMENT PRICING:
- STARTING @ 5,000 – read more about my all inclusive Colorado elopement packages!
- ALL DAY COVERAGE
- BRECKENRIDGE ELOPEMENT LOCATIONS – there are tons of epic Breckenridge elopement locations and I’m stoked to match you up with the best one!
- BRECKENRIDGE MAPS AND PERMITS – Ready to get the lowdown on Breckenridge? I’ll walk you through where to look for lodging, and maps for local activities and hold your hand through the permit process if need be.
- BRECKENRIDGE ELOPEMENT VENDORS – I work with some of the best vendors in Breckenridge throughout the year and these peeps know how to make Breckenridge elopements extra special!
- NEXT DAY TEASERS – Can’t wait to share the news of your awesome days with social and family? I’ll hit you with some next-day bangers to hold you over until your full album is ready!
- ONLINE GALLERY: Ready to drool over your Breckenridge elopement photos? You’ll get a full gallery online where you can download, share, and print your photos.
IS IT BETTER TO ELOPE IN BRECKENRIDGE AT SUNRISE OR SUNSET?
When it comes to crafting the perfect elopement in Breckenridge, let me tell you, sunrise ceremonies are where it’s at. Picture-perfect western-facing locations tucked away in secluded spots not only provide privacy with fewer hikers to amplify the intimacy of your elopement. But also, sunrise guarantees primo lighting, steering clear of any pesky overexposure or harsh shadows mucking up your epic photos.
Now, if you’re dead set on a sunset elopement soirée, here’s the scoop: head on over to a mountain pass. Trust me, you’ll want those elevated viewpoints to keep the sun from ducking behind the peaks too soon. It’s all about that epic backdrop as you exchange vows in Breckenridge, my friend!
WEATHER IN BRECKENRIDGE
Ah, Breckenridge, where the weather’s as unpredictable as a game of roulette! You might wake up on your big day, hoping for sunshine and clear skies, but Mother Nature decides to throw in a twist – a dash of monsoon in summer, a sprinkle of snow in fall, or a blizzard day in winter.
Now, here’s the scoop: if you’re planning your elopement, mornings are your golden ticket. Breckenridge, is western facing, giving you that magical lighting for your photos. But remember, don’t let the weather forecast drive you bonkers. It changes every minuet, so save yourself the stress and only peek at it a day or two before. Trust me, it’s a sanity saver!
GETTING AROUND FOR YOUR BRECKENRIDGE ELOPEMENT
So, you’re all set to elope in Breckenridge, huh? Chances are, you’ll kick off your adventure in Denver. This is going to be the closest place to look for flights, but don’t fret, you can drive to Breckenridge in around two hours. I would still highly recommend getting a rental car for the drive out to Breckenridge and for the day of your elopement at least. You’re going to need transportation to your elopement location and having your own car is easier than flagging a Uber at 3 am. Trust me!
You can also take advantage of other means of transportation in town, like rental bikes or taking the Free Ride bus service. Biking is a great option because it offers expansive views of the Ten Mile Range outside of Breckenridge and the bus service is great to cut down on congestion within the town.
THE BEST LODGING FOR YOUR BRECKENRIDGE ELOPEMENT
I’ve handpicked captivating elopement venues in Breckenridge, ranging from charming cabins nestled alongside murmuring mountain streams to luxurious multi-million-dollar designer residences and secluded treasures perched atop the peaks. Whether you envision an intimate gathering or a grand event, Breckenridge offers an array of options, where the potential for your ideal elopement is as expansive as the awe-inspiring mountain scenery. In Breckenridge, the possibilities are boundless!
Staying at an Airbnb in Breckenridge can be a great home base for you and your friends and family as you explore the area and take in all the fantastic things to do and see here. Or you can get extra pampered by lodging at one of Breckenridge’s beautiful hotels. It’s completely up to you!
Check out some of my favorite lodging options for your Breckenridge elopement:
- Breckenridge Marriot – Situated perfectly right in town, these hotel rooms are stocked with full kitchens, balconies, and full-on living areas.
- Gravity Haus – This place is amazing! The location is perfect in downtown Breckenridge and every year is modern and updated. I’ve had plenty of past Breckenridge elopement couples rave about their stay here!
- Welk Resort – If you want luxury, look no further! The Welk Resort will absolutely elevate your Breckenridge elopement experience with its big rooms and balconies and intimate fireplaces.
- The Lodge at Breckenridge Elopement – This place doubles as an awesome chalet and a wedding venue. You can knock out two birds with one stone here and can even cap off your Breckenridge elopement at the spa!
- The Carlin – Since summer 2023, perched on Main Street, this spot took cues from European guesthouses, stacking suites atop not one, but two restaurants. Definitely more upscale than some of the other spots in the area!
“Sean brought a sense of comfort to us, as this trip was completely out of our comfort zone! It couldn’t have gone better. Sean became a wedding planner-of-sorts and provided the perfect elopement in Breckenridge, with photos including the most breathtaking scenery in numerous landscapes surrounding the Breckenridge area. I could not recommend him enough if I tried.”
-Jen & Mat
BRECKENRIDGE ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHERS
My name is Sean, your Breckenridge elopement photographer, and I can’t wait to help you plan and photograph your epic elopement in Breckenridge! I’m your Colorado elopement guide – a free spirit who has dedicated my life to exploring this wild world and connecting to the people in it.
I know firsthand what an important and personal decision this is—my wife and I eloped to Northern Ireland. You’re trusting me to capture this amazing day, and I make it my responsibility to make sure you have an incredible experience from start to finish.
My passion has led me here, where I can follow my heart and share my love for the outdoors with others on their wedding day. It’s truly an awesome experience, and I’m stoked every time I get to document your day in Breckenridge.
When I’m not photographing couples, I love to go exploring in my van with my corgi, Deebo.
Sound like the perfect match? Check out my All Inclusive Colorado elopement packages for more information!
FAQ
Are there any restrictions or permits required for elopements in Breckenridge’s outdoor locations?
Yes, some outdoor locations in Breckenridge may require permits for elopements, particularly places that require reservations like Sapphire Point or Windy Point Campground. You might also encounter hiking trails that have restrictions on the areas where you can take photos, such as Blue Lakes, which now has limitations on where you can shoot your photos. It’s essential to work with your Breckenridge elopement photographer regarding any necessary permits or restrictions. Additionally, be mindful of Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of the area so that everyone can continue eloping in Breckenridge for years to come!
How can I find the best location for my Breckenridge elopement?
I work with each of my couples individually in choosing the perfect location for their Breckenridge elopement ceremony, depending on their preferences and vision for their special day. We go over a number of different factors such as distance, scenery, accessibility, privacy, and any necessary permits. This is a pretty extensive process, and some couples might have two different ceremony backdrops depending on whether they include family or not.
What are the most unique Breckenridge elopement locations?
A lot of the locations listed are starting points and not exact locations. So uncovering the hidden gems and most unique locations generally requires a booking from most photographers in Breckenridge.
Can you help us with vendors with booking vendors for our Breckenridge elopement?
Yes, of course! Part of my Breckenridge elopement packages includes connecting you with awesome local vendors in Summit County. These folks offer services such as officiating, floral arrangements, catering, hair, and makeup. I still suggest reaching out to each of the Breckenridge-based vendors, reading reviews, and scheduling consultations to find professionals who understand your vision and can bring it to life on your special day because you really want to work with people you mesh well with and who can clearly see your vision!
BRECKENRIDGE ELOPEMENT GALLERY INSPIRATION
Looking for some inspiration for your Breckenridge elopement? Take a peek at these breathtaking galleries for a glimpse into what your special day could entail in Breckenridge!
Kelsey & Eric Breckenridge, Elopement
For their special day, Eric’s and Kelce’s Breckenridge elopement started at 3:15 AM for a pre-sunrise hike. Once settled at the summit, they separately got dressed and prepared for their first look.
Desi & Hannah Breckenridge, Elopement
Desi and Hannah opted for an intimate elopement, prioritising the inclusion of their two beloved dogs over a grand ceremony. Envisioning snow-capped peaks and lush foliage in Breckenride.
Alexa & Gabe’s Breckenridge Elopement
We met up for a first look near Breckenridge and explored the snowy mountains before warming up with coffee on the way to meet the family. We then met up with their families and Alexa freshened up in the car.
Ray and Natalie Breckenridge Elopement
Our next step was a first look near Dillon. This Breckenridge spot is especially beautiful because it shows off the areas beautiful snow capped peaks! Ray’s reaction to Natalie’s first look was one for the books as well!
