COLORADO ELOPEMENT GUIDE
WHAT IS IN THIS COLORADO ELOPEMENT GUIDE?
Alright, you’re here because you’ve made the call to elope in Colorado, and let me tell you, it’s a choice I can get behind! I’m pumped to guide couples like you through this journey. Now it’s time to get stoked—picking the prime elopement spot and vow exchange locale in Colorado is where the real adventure kicks in! Let’s dive in and make magic happen!
As your native Colorado elopement expert, I’ve helped over 340+ couples find their perfect spot and plan their dream day, so I’ve Colorado elopements down to a science. This place is my literal playground and I’m stoked to share my expertise, passions, and favorite banger locations in Colorado for your big day. Consider the locations in this guide as the trailhead for your location inspiration. We’ll reach the summit of your final location together after booking!
My top elopement locations are nothing short of magical. Scroll below to get the lowdown the natives guide to best places to elope in Colorado!
WHY SHOULD YOU ELOPE IN COLORADO?
Colorado elopements offer an unforgettable experience amidst awe-inspiring views, with 15 majestic mountain ranges and over 54 peaks above 10,000 feet. The state’s tranquil alpine lakes, vibrant meadows adorned with wildflowers, and diverse backdrops make it a perfect choice for your elopement day.
What sets Colorado apart is its unique self-solemnizing option, allowing couples to marry themselves without an officiant. The simplicity and freedom of eloping in Colorado, accompanied by your dog as you sign your marriage license, resulting in truly unforgettable memories. Tell me a better experience!
With elopement packages, fantastic vendors, 420-friendly option, exciting hikes, and breathtaking outdoor venues, the possibilities are endless for your dream elopement in Colorado. Don’t hesitate any longer, let’s start planning your unforgettable Colorado elopement now!
“This dude is super chill, super fun to hang out with, and an amazing photographer. I think one of the things that really makes him excel, is that he kind of makes you forget about the photos entirely, and helps you truly embrace the moment. Which is why you’re there right? To embrace the day! And really, I think that makes his photos even better, because the only thing you’re doing in that moment is making beautiful memories with your new spouse that you’ll cherish forever.”
– Lauren & Jeff
WHAT IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO ELOPE IN COLORADO?
“Sean is simply incredible. From the very start he brought a passion and energy to making our dreams a reality that we didn’t think we would get in a photographer. He assisted in every step of the process: picking a date and time, assessing locations based off of what we imagined/what was physically feasible for us, and even facilitating a two-part day so we could include our families in the afternoon portion. He was communicative, organized, and constantly professional.”
– Delaney & Mat
JUNE (SUMMER BEGINS)
The beginning of summer is the starting point for couples eloping in Colorado. The kickoff to summer sets the stage for couples embarking on their Colorado elopement journey. You can expect crisp mornings that gradually warm up as the day unfolds. Keep in mind, higher elevations tend to dry out faster, yet you might encounter some stubborn snow patches on the trails, especially in early June, making access a tad trickier. But hey, you can’t expect those majestic snowcapped peaks without a little snow, am I right?
- JUNE PRO TIP: Mid to late June in Colorado is pretty changeable, so once you pick your date, we can figure out the best trails to hit!
JULY & AUGUST (SUMMER)
This is high summer, baby, and what a great time of year to elope in Colorado! The days are long, the alpine lakes are ripe for a swim, and the trails are clear and full of wildflowers. These months are also high tourist season, so aim for a sunrise elopement and enjoy hiking under the stars. July and August are by far my favorite months to capture Colorado elopements.
- JULY PRO TIP: July is monsoon season in Colorado so you can expect heavy doses of afternoon showers.
SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER (FALL)
Call me biased, but there’s nowhere more beautiful on earth than Colorado in the fall. The mornings can start cool, but we still get some warm days in September and even into early October. The leaves change somewhere around the 3rd to 4th week of September and the colors can be gone with one big wind storm! The aspen trees turn vibrant shades of gold, orange, and red, creating a stunning natural backdrop for your elopement in Colorado. The weather is cooler, but still comfortable for outdoor activities such as hiking!
- COLORADO FALL ELOPEMENT PRO TIP: Eloping in Colorado in late October can sometimes have snow, especially in higher elevations, so if you want fall colors, plan on mid-September through mid-October.
NOVEMBER – MAY
And for all you snow lovers out there, Colorado is a winter wonderland from December through March. The benefits of having an eloping in Colorado during shoulder season are that the trails are much less crowded. If you’re coming from out of state, the rates for flights and lodging are significantly lower. You can also try out different activities like snowshoeing, skiing, or snowmobiling.
One thing I know about shoulder season: It takes a special couple to want to get married in the colder parts of the year. My best advice would be to have experience in the snowy months and to get in touch and let me know what you’re thinking. I’m happy to weigh in with my experiences of what the conditions are like in the elopement locations you are considering!
- SHOULDER SEASON PRO TIP: Location accessibility is our main concern during these months, and what happened last year is not always a good indication of what will happen this year. Colorado is crazy that way!
WHERE SHOULD WE ELOPE IN COLORADO?
Honestly, this is the most significant and thrilling aspect of the puzzle I enjoy exploring with every couple right from the start, and I strive to personalize it as much as possible. With my intimate knowledge of Colorado, pinpointing epic locations is always a highlight for me. However, it’s crucial to refine certain key details with each couple based on their responses to their questionnaire.
Some of the questions you’ll see in your couples scouting questionnaire after booking will include:
- What type of scenery do you like the most? (Bodies of water, flowers, cliffs & edges, forests, waterfalls, ect)
- How many miles can you typically do in a hike? How many miles per hour? (If you want to hike) Do you want to hike in your wedding clothes, or change once you reach your location?
- What activities would you like to include in your elopement day (backpacking, hiking, first look, first dance, climbing, fly a kite, kayaking, picnicking, going to a brewery, paddle boarding, etc.)?
- Do you have any kind of celebration party, reception, drinks or meals planned? Where is and what time do you envision it happening?
- How do each of you feel about heights/exposure? How do you feel about being near the edges of cliffs/drop offs, etc? Can you describe some experiences you both enjoyed or didn’t enjoy related to heights? Would you prefer a location where that’s not an issue (i.e. no standing near the edge of cliffs, etc)?
SAN JUAN MOUNTAINS
This place hits differently and is the perfect spot for any adventure enthusiast! These mountains are ancient volcanic peaks that cut through the heart of southwestern Colorado. Today, the jagged peaks are home to a summer carpet of wildflowers and a number of breathtaking turquoise alpine lakes and off-roading routes.
The renowned Colorado towns of Telluride, Silverton, Ouray, and Durango are perfect outdoor playgrounds for exploring this corner of the state, making it one of the best places to elope in Colorado!
- BEST SEASON: Year-Round
- LOCAL PRO TIP: These roads can be windy, and rough, and require clearance. Be sure to add 15-20 minutes onto whatever GPS estimates so you are on time and aren’t rushing!
- ELEVATION: 8,000 to 14,309′
- PHOTOGRAPHY PERMIT: No
- CLOSEST AIRPORTS: Montrose & Telluride
- BEST CITIES FOR LODGING: Ouray, Montrose, Telluride
- LOCATION: https://goo.gl/maps/CDBngm7aGK3Lk78Q9
“By far the best elopement photos I’ve ever seen! Sean was by far the best decision we made for our special day. He took us to spectacular places in Colorado that dreams are made of. We couldn’t have asked for a better person to capture this moment that we will remember forever. If you are eloping in Colorado and looking for a unique and rememberable wedding, then Sean is your elopement ninja”
– Ashley & Brent
ASPEN, COLORADO
A little place called Aspen! This is one of the crown jewels of Colorado and has plenty of levels of adventure for any couple. You have mountain passes, lakes, and high alpine views of some of Colorado’s best peaks. And of course, Aspen is known for its abundance of aspen trees in the area and is especially popular in the fall when you’ll enjoy valleys lined in orange and yellow. Also, the alpine lakes in this area are top-notch. Perfect for a quick dive after a warm summer day!
- BEST SEASON: Summer – Fall
- LOCAL PRO TIP: Aspen can be expensive so look for lodging near Twin Lakes or Snow Mass.
- ELEVATION: 8,000′
- PHOTOGRAPHY PERMIT: Yes
- CLOSEST AIRPORTS: Aspen & Denver International
- BEST CITIES FOR LODGING: Aspen, Snowmass, Twin Lakes
- LOCATION: https://goo.gl/maps/zxkyQDav7b51EwDZ9
VAIL
Vail is boujee, and it has rightfully earned that title. But don’t let the fur coats and expensive coffee fool you! Located right inside the White River National Forest, Vail is situated perfectly for couples looking to head out on big hiking adventures, backpacking, skiing, or snowboarding elopements. The Gore Range is really perfect for couples looking to head out on an overnight trip. Trust me!
- BEST SEASON: Year-Round
- LOCAL PRO TIP: A lot of the trails start in residential areas so be mindful of the locals when parking and exploring the Vail area.
- ELEVATION: 8,150′
- PHOTOGRAPHY PERMIT: Some Places
- CLOSEST AIRPORTS: Eagle County & Denver International
- BEST CITIES FOR LODGING: Vail, Eagle, Avon, Silverthorne
- LOCATION: https://goo.gl/maps/LNuUcEEKxBNMNQSBA
“Eloping in Colorado with Sean was like we were with an old close friend that you’re having a blast with, who just happens to also be an elopement ninja! The day was very natural and not staged whatsoever. We couldn’t even tell Sean was snapping all our amazing photos to document our day. Our photos turned out amazing and we are truly happy with every single one of them! There has not been a single day that goes by where I have not looked through our elopement photos with the biggest smile on my face. Sean has a natural talent and we could not recommend him enough!”
– Josephine
BRECKENRIDGE
Breck, as the locals call it, is a laid-back ski town full of Western spirit. It’s known for having amazing skiing, summer hiking, and year-round high-alpine activities (including a roster of fun festivals). It’s also conveniently located right off I-70 which is a huge bonus for those traveling to Colorado.
Breckenridge is particularly stunning in two seasons: In the summer when there are countless wildflowers and open vistas for you to explore! And the fall when the aspens are litski in orange and yellow.
- BEST SEASON: Year-Round
- LOCAL PRO TIP: I especially love the sunrise hikes in the area as most of them are western facing, giving off some amazing morning alpenglow!
- ELEVATION: 9,600′
- PHOTOGRAPHY PERMIT: Some Places
- CLOSEST AIRPORT: Eagle County & Denver International
- BEST CITIES FOR LODGING: Breckenridge, Frisco, Silverthorne.
- LOCATION: https://goo.gl/maps/mzBhgz1GZFPjZ3NP8
“If you want someone laidback and easy to be around with expertise, look no further. I truly felt like I was hanging out with a friend who happened to be an amazing, talented photographer. I received countless compliments from our family and friends about Sean as well. They were impressed by his professionalism and friendliness. Our elopement in Colorado would not have been the same without Sean and we would not have changed a thing!”
– Megan & Bob
BOULDER
Boulder is at the foothills of the Indian Peaks Wilderness in Colorado where you’ll find over 45,000 acres of jagged peaks and plenty of alpine lakes to explore for your elopement in Colorado! You can find plenty of scenic spots right outside Boulder or venture further out for a bigger adventure. Either way, you will have a lot of choices!
Not only are the local trails amazing but you can bike in the surrounding areas and even head up to Nederland or Eldora for some local bites after your big day.
- BEST SEASON: Year-Round
- LOCAL PRO TIP: Head over to Pearl Street for some beer and bites to cap off your big day!
- ELEVATION: 5,328′ to 11,000′
- PHOTOGRAPHY PERMIT: Yes
- Photographers should either have a limited or unlimited annual commercial use permit.
- CLOSEST AIRPORT: Denver International
- LOCATION: https://goo.gl/maps/tH84PT3C7KGDyt5b9
ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK
Rocky Mountain National Park is an ever-popular destination that distills the best of Colorado into 415 square miles of alpine vistas, crashing waterfalls, stunning rock ledges, open meadows, and breathtaking alpine lakes. With more than 300 miles of hiking trails, this park is a favorite of out-of-towners and locals alike, which makes it one of the more popular places to elope in Colorado.
According to the National Park Service, the cost to get married in the park is $300 and comes with a reserved ceremony location.
*2024 UPDATES: June permits are SOLD OUT
- BEST SEASON: Year-Round
- LOCAL PRO TIP: Trail Ridge Road is closed seasonally because the roads aren’t maintained at higher elevations.
- ELEVATION: 7,860′ to 14,259′
- PHOTOGRAPHY PERMIT: Yes. The Special Use Permit requires a non-refundable administrative fee of $300 for each wedding application
- Maximum Permit Limits:
- May – October: 60 per month on a first come – first serve basis
- November- April: 40 per month on a first come – first serve basis
- Maximum Permit Limits:
- MAX GROUP SIZE: Group size can’t exceed 30 people or the normal site limit, including the couple, guests (including infants and young children), officiants, and photographers.
- CLOSEST AIRPORT: Denver International
- BEST CITIES FOR LODGING: Estes Park, Granby, Boulder
- LOCATION: https://goo.gl/maps/NzijRDuw7mM33y5s6
“Sean knew the best places in Colorado, routes, locations, etc., and was determined to make out day special and beautiful despite the weather. Our photos turned out to be a dream, our friends and family won’t stop raving about them! I was so grateful for his easy-going personality and his eye for a great shot. His appreciation for the land reflects in his photos and we are so thankful we chose him!”
– Phoebe & Joe
GREAT SAND DUNES NATIONAL PARK
Surprise! Did you know that Colorado is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America? The Great Sand Dunes are like something out of a dream, an otherworldly pocket of rippling sand bordered by mountains on one side and a vast valley (home to the other kind of otherworldly) on the other.
It makes the perfect location for couples wanting an earthy, boho vibe. This national park is remote, meaning you’ll feel like you’re walking among the stars on moonless nights! It’s truly a different and unique experience for couples looking to elope in Colorado but not necessarily wanting big peaks as their main backdrop.
Please note that you must apply and pay anywhere from $50 – $250 for the photography permit at the Great Sand Dunes National Park.
- BEST SEASON: Year-Round
- LOCAL PRO TIP: The Great Sand Dunes are amazing for astrophotography as there is little light pollution in the area.
- ELEVATION: 7,520′
- PHOTOGRAPHY PERMIT: Yes
- MAX GROUP SIZE: 50
- CLOSEST AIRPORT: San Luis Valley & Denver International
- BEST CITIES FOR LODGING: Alamosa, Pueblo
- LOCATION: https://goo.gl/maps/q5sx8w2UddfWJ7WW6
“There were multiple reasons why we chose an elopement in Colorado with Sean. The promise of epic photos is what initially drew us in. I can’t remember exactly how I first came across Sean’s work on Instagram, but I remember excitingly telling my now husband about 2 years before we eloped “THIS is what I want and what I envision our wedding day to be!” The rest is history. We would do it again in a heartbeat. Our photos and the location in Colorado that Sean chose for us truly were EPIC. “
– Jeff & Nina
TELLURIDE
Ask someone to name towns in Colorado, and chances are they’ll mention Telluride. It’s remote, rugged, yet comfortable with luxury. Telluride sits at the head of a box canyon, where the state’s tallest waterfall—fittingly named Bridal Veil Falls—crashes 365 feet to the canyon floor.
This town is known for its skiing (and après ski) and annual festivals. This is a great elopement location for couples to set up camp in the surrounding area. It’s by far one of my favorite locations and a true Colorado town through and through! Come here in the fall time and the Aspen trees are on fire in orange and yellow. You won’t be disappointed!
- BEST SEASON: Year-Round
- LOCAL PRO TIP: The gondola is free and takes about 13 min from point A to point B.
- ELEVATION: 8,750′
- PHOTOGRAPHY PERMIT: No
- CLOSEST AIRPORTS: Montrose & Telluride
- BEST CITIES FOR LODGING: Telluride, Mountain Village, Ouray, Ridgeway
- LOCATION: https://goo.gl/maps/vWURAqkiUZaR2DcM6
“Sean was more like a photographer and elopement planner, as he gave suggestions for what to do for the day, handled some logistics, and gave us a timeline for the day after we filled out a questionnaire. He made the experience really memorable by suggesting the best locations to make it possible to rock climb on our elopement in Colorado!”
– Emma & Jacob
GRANBY
The less traveled and explored side of the Indian Peaks Wilderness resides near Granby, Colorado. This is by far one of my favorite areas for couples eloping in Colorado with the rugged peaks and secluded alpine lakes. You better have some good endurance because the hiking and backpacking trails here aren’t for the faint of heart!
- BEST SEASON: Summer – Fall
- LOCAL PRO TIP: Granby can connect to Rocky Mountain National Park via Trail Ridge Road.
- ELEVATION: Trails starting at 7,935′
- PHOTOGRAPHY PERMIT: Yes
- CLOSEST AIRPORT: Denver International
- BEST CITIES FOR LODGING: Granby, Frasier
- LOCATION: https://goo.gl/maps/QfbdPPQmotbbLLMW7
“Can we have more than five stars!? From the first message and then the phone call with Sean, we felt totally comfortable. He made sure we went into our elopement completely educated and prepared. We are not Colorado natives so we had lots of questions! Sean’s talent and intoxicating energy are unmatched. No questions asked, hands down, we couldn’t ever recommend anyone other than Sean”
– Corrine & Mat
MAROON BELLS AMPHITHEATER
Maroon Bells, outside of Aspen, is home to the two most iconic peaks in Colorado. This location is a mountain paradise, lined with aspen trees, dreamy lakes, and breathtaking views. It makes for the perfect postcard for couples eloping in Colorado. “The Bells” are stunning in all seasons, especially in fall when the quaking aspens burn gold and yellow.
There is a $200 application fee to elope in Maroon Bells Wilderness Area. You can reserve your ceremony spot at recreation.gov.
- BEST SEASON: Summer – Fall
- LOCAL PRO TIP: Explore the 5.4 – mile hike around Cathedral Lake after your Maroon Bells elopement!
- ELEVATION: 9,880′
- PHOTOGRAPHY PERMIT: Yes
- Permits are released from June 7, 2024, through October 6, 2024.
- MAX GROUP SIZE: 50
- CLOSEST AIRPORTS: Aspen & Denver International
- BEST CITIES FOR LODGING: Aspen, Snowmass, Twin Lakes
- LOCATION: https://goo.gl/maps/5jpHPjNDVvwQkg9o9
LOVELAND PASS
You don’t have to venture far from Colorado’s biggest city (that’d be Denver) to find epic landscapes. We have mountain passes that climb over 12,000 feet to wide-open tundra and they’re even located along the Front Range of Colorado. These passes are perfect for couples looking for a high mountain, high alpine feel.
- BEST SEASON: Summer – Fall
- LOCAL PRO TIP: Prepare yourself for the altitude by driving slow up the passes.
- ELEVATION: 11,991′
- PHOTOGRAPHY PERMIT: No
- CLOSEST AIRPORT: Denver International
- BEST CITIES FOR LODGING: Georgetown, Breckenridge, Silverthorne
SAN SOPHIA OVERLOOK
The best part about San Sophia? You get to combine your wedding and honeymoon into one big adventure in one of the most scenic areas of Colorado! Take a free gondola ride up to this gorgeous overlook where you can show off the San Juan mountains to friends and family for your ceremony. The grass amphitheater overlooking Telluride can accommodate up to 250 guests.
The price for renting out San Sophia Overlook starts at $5,000.
For availability, you can reach out to their coordinator at weddings@tellurideskiresort.com
- BEST SEASON: Year-Round
- LOCAL PRO TIP: Don’t forget to get some gondola shots after your ceremony!
- ELEVATION: 10,540′
- PHOTOGRAPHY PERMIT: Yes
- MAX GROUP SIZE: 250
- CLOSEST AIRPORTS: Montrose & Telluride
- BEST CITIES FOR LODGING: Telluride
- LOCATION: https://goo.gl/maps/aVBG7aci8uYWGu5V8
ESTES PARK
Quaint, old-school Estes Park is the base camp for all things in Rocky Mountain National Park. It’s known for its wildlife (check out elk bugling in the fall!) and is surrounded by miles of jagged peaks, secluded forests, open tundra, and beautiful lakes. Estes Park perfect spot for those eloping in Colorado that are wanting convenient services, good food, and big views.
- BEST SEASON: Year-Round
- LOCAL PRO TIP: Be sure to visit the famous Stanley Hotel on your visit to Estes Park.
- ELEVATION: 7,522′
- PHOTOGRAPHY PERMIT: Yes
- CLOSEST AIRPORT: Denver International
- BEST CITIES FOR LODGING: Estes Park, Boulder
- LOCATION: https://goo.gl/maps/rJse5H4jiC6fc9FDA
GUANELLA PASS
Guanella Pass is one of Colorado’s iconic mountain roads. Less than an hour from Denver, the free road climbs along a tumbling river and up above the timberline. In this vast, high-elevation land, you’ll find epic views of Mount Bierstadt (a 14er) and plenty of open tundras to explore during your elopement in Colorado. The road up Guanella Pass descends past an alpine lake to historic Georgetown, where you can share a beer at a local brewery afterward!
- BEST SEASON: Summer – Fall
- LOCAL PRO TIP: The road up to Guanella Pass closes seasonally.
- ELEVATION: 11,670′
- PHOTOGRAPHY PERMIT: No
- CLOSEST AIRPORT: Denver International
- BEST CITIES FOR LODGING: Georgetown
- LOCATION: https://goo.gl/maps/R9s3T1HnycJkVo1o7
SAPPHIRE POINT OVERLOOK
Sapphire Point Overlook used to be one of my favorite spots to catch the sunset after a long day on the mountain. It perches at 9,500 feet and overlooks a stunning view of Dillon Reservoir, a large lake with a squiggly, forested coastline surrounded by the Gore Range. Sapphire Point is an ideal spot for year-round couples eloping in Colorado because you can drive up to the location and rent out two-hour blocks for your ceremony. This is a great choice for couples wanting to include family members!
You can make your reservations for your Sapphire Point elopement online.
- BEST SEASON: Year-Round
- LOCAL PRO TIP: Check out the nearby Windy Point Campground if your desired date is already booked.
- ELEVATION: 9,500′
- PHOTOGRAPHY PERMIT: Yes
- MAX GROUP SIZE: 35
- CLOSEST AIRPORT: Denver International
- BEST CITIES FOR LODGING: Silverthorne, Frisco, Breckenridge
- LOCATION: https://goo.gl/maps/3rEEEGZGDojNBQxCA
BRAINARD LAKE
Brainard Lake is situated right at the front of 10 different hiking trails and is one of my favorite spots in the summer. Do you want some big views? This lake is accessible by car and has stunning views of the peaks and forests in the surrounding area. This is a great location for couples that are having family join them on their elopement in Colorado!
*2024 UPDATE: Brainard Lake requires a day-use permit. You can make a reservation online.
- BEST SEASON: Summer – Fall
- LOCAL PRO TIP: The road to Brainard Lake closes seasonally as the roads aren’t maintained all year.
- ELEVATION: 10,300′
- PHOTOGRAPHY PERMIT: No
- CLOSEST AIRPORT: Denver International
- BEST CITIES FOR LODGING: Boulder, Nederland
- LOCATION: https://goo.gl/maps/btq5cN4LN8mE6gFu7
GEORGETOWN
Georgetown perfectly encompasses what eloping in Colorado is all about—adventurous, intimate, and small-town charm. This little spot right off 70 is tucked between two peaks and offers limitless locations for those seeking big views and tons of adventure for those eloping in Colorado. Thirsty elopers can cap off their day at one of the local breweries!
- BEST SEASON: Summer – Fall
- LOCAL PRO TIP: Explore the area by visiting the Georgetown Loop Railroad.
- ELEVATION: 8,530′
- PHOTOGRAPHY PERMIT: No
- CLOSEST AIRPORT: Denver International
- BEST CITIES FOR LODGING: Georgetown, Silverthorne, Breckenridge
- LOCATION: https://goo.gl/maps/XgxcGctVGBgRszfW7
SAINT MARY’S GLACIER
Saint Mary’s Glacier is just an hour outside of Denver and has an amazing alpine lake situated between some peaks, and, of course, the glacier. This is my go-to location when friends come into town because the elevation won’t kill anyone and the views are incredible. This is the perfect location for those eloping in Colorado that are wanting a shorter hike and a taste of snow year-round.
- BEST SEASON: Year-Round
- LOCAL PRO TIP: Plan your Saint Mary’s Glacier elopement during the week, as the weekends can get busy!
- ELEVATION: 11,236′
- PHOTOGRAPHY PERMIT: No
- CLOSEST AIRPORTS: Denver International
- BEST CITIES FOR LODGING: Georgetown, Silverthorne, Breckenridge
- LOCATION: https://goo.gl/maps/6JCwo5GjsPeRMiRp6
ELOPING IN COLORADO AT SKI RESORTS
Colorado has some of the best ski resorts in the country and most are available year-round! Each resort brings something unique and different but you can count on each having its own incredible views! Choosing the best ski resort comes down to a number of different things like location, season, availability, and budget. Ski resorts are also great for couples who might have friends and family joining as they’re generally super accessible!
- BEST SEASON: Year-Round
- LOCAL PRO TIP: Some of the best locations are near Denver.
- PHOTOGRAPHY PERMIT: Some Places
- LOCATION: Colorado has 32 ski resorts to choose from all over the state for your elopement.
ELOPING IN COLORADO AT RENTAL PROPERTIES
Epic vacation homes make for a great option for those eloping in Colorado. Some areas have AirBnB’s that are big enough to host your entire wedding. This makes it super easy for friends and family to join, while also keeping your travel to a minimum. Make sure to scour the photos from each place and keep an eye out for open spaces with big mountain views for the ceremony or reception!
- BEST SEASON: Year-Round
- PHOTOGRAPHY PERMIT: Check with your hosts to make sure that holding an event is OK with them. Some places might require an additional fee, while others are free!
“We would highly recommend Sean to anyone, especially if you are looking to elope in Colorado, the photos speak for themselves and I truly believe our day with Sean’s guidance was even more special than we initially planned.”
– Jen & Kyle
GARDEN OF THE GODS
Garden of the Gods stands out from typical places in Colorado because of its towering red rocks overlooking nearby Pikes Peak. These formations make for a unique and beautiful backdrop for couples eloping in Colorado Springs.
Eloping in Garden of the Gods is especially appealing to couples who have bigger group sizes as there are six designated elopement spots that can accommodate up to 50 guests. These spots are free and first come first serve, so make sure to arrive early!
You can read more about eloping in Garden of the Gods HERE!
- BEST SEASON: Year-Round
- LOCAL PRO TIP: You can explore the Garden of the Gods via foot, segway, horse, or by car.
- ELEVATION: 6,400′
- PHOTOGRAPHY PERMIT: No
- MAX GROUP SIZE: 25-50
- CLOSEST AIRPORTS: Colorado Springs & Denver International
- BEST CITIES FOR LODGING: Colorado Springs
- LOCATION: https://goo.gl/maps/CcjfhnvKvt5SoUz17
HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR ELOPEMENT LOCATION
One of the best parts of eloping in Colorado is it gives you a chance to adventure in an epic backdrop. Colorado’s landscape and topography are diverse and each location evokes different emotions.
But there are some things you should consider when narrowing down your elopement spot.
- Your elopement location should resonate with you—have you seen a photo from above that got you super stoked? Was there a place on that trip where you shared a special moment together? This place should inspire and be unique to you!
- When choosing a place to elope, consider the season. If you are looking for certain features such as alpine lakes and wildflowers, then you’ll want to stick to the summer months. When choosing your location, the accessibility of the place is huge!
- How intimate is the location? Some areas of Colorado are more popular than others. I work with each of my couples to narrow down the best places that ensure you the privacy and intimacy you deserve!
- Are you having guests? You should probably consider a location that does not require long distances of driving such as places in the front range. You can choose a location in more secluded parts of the state, but you might have to fly to smaller airports.
- Consider the activities. There are some places in Colorado that better than others for hiking, rock climbing, backpacking, and Jeeping.
LET’S GET STARTED ON YOUR COLORADO ELOPEMENT!
My name is Sean, and I can’t wait to help choose your awesome elopement spot! I’m a Colorado-based 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 to Colorado, where I can follow my heart and share my love for the outdoors with others on their elopement day. It’s truly an awesome experience, and I’m stoked every time I get to document your day in Colorado.
Sound like the perfect match? Check out my packages and reach out if you’re ready to elope in Colorado!
