Trout Lake Elopement
Fall in Telluride is hard to beat. The aspens turn golden, the San Juan Mountains become even more dramatic, and the cooler weather makes it the perfect time for an adventure elopement. For Erica & Keith, we decided to make the entire day about chasing those fall colors while creating space for both private moments and a family celebration.
The day started by exploring the mountains and looking for the best pockets of fall color. Rather than staying at one location all day, we moved around, stopping whenever we found beautiful aspens, mountain views, and little moments worth experiencing.
Private Vows at a Hidden Waterfall
Before meeting up with their family, the couple shared private vows beside a waterfall. It was just the two of them, surrounded by the mountains and the sound of rushing water. I love incorporating private vows into family-inclusive elopements because it gives couples a moment that’s completely theirs. You can then have your family join you later without sacrificing that intimate part of the day.
A Family Ceremony at Trout Lake
After chasing fall colors and sharing their private vows, we headed to Trout Lake for their family ceremony. Trout Lake is one of the most acessible spots for family members.
The lake sits beneath towering peaks, surrounded by forests and, in the fall, brilliant golden aspens. It feels completely immersed in the mountains without requiring your entire guest list to tackle a major hike. That makes Trout Lake especially appealing for couples who want an adventurous elopement and want parents, siblings, or close friends there to witness the ceremony.
Their family gathered at the lake, they exchanged their official vows, and they got to celebrate their marriage together in one of the most beautiful settings in the area!
Why I love Trout Lake for Elopements
Trout Lake is a great option for couples who want a dramatic Colorado mountain setting, beautiful fall scenery, and the ability to include family without turning the day into a traditional wedding.
The best part is that Trout Lake doesn’t have to be your entire elopement. You can spend the morning hiking or exploring, chase fall colors, share private vows somewhere quiet, and then meet your family at Trout Lake for the ceremony.
Their wedding wasn’t just a ceremony at a lake. It was an entire day exploring the area, sharing private moments, and celebrating with the people they love.
Your Elopement Photographer, Location Scout & Full-Service Planner
I don’t just photograph elopements. I plan them, scout the location myself, handle the permits, and connect you with local vendors so you don’t have to think about any of it.
I live in Colorado full time, not just for elopement season. This isn’t a weekend trip for me. I’ve spent years learning these mountains, and I use that to find you a spot nobody else would think to send you to.
My Story
I’m Sean. I moved to Colorado 14 years ago and spent the first few years just exploring every corner of the state I could find. Eight years ago I started doing elopements in Colorado and it clicked immediately.
Hundreds of couples later and I’m still going out before sunrise to find those hidden locations, fixing broken dress zippers mid elopement, and building days where couples tell me they completely forgot I was even there. That the whole thing felt natural and unscripted, like hanging out with an old friend who just happened to be capturing everything. I’ve had couples deal with weather that had no business being on their wedding day, and their friends and family still couldn’t stop raving about the photos. That’s what I’m after every single time!
This place is not a backdrop to me. It’s home. That’s the difference between hiring someone who flies in for your elopement and hiring someone who genuinely lives in the mountains you’re getting married in.
Sound like the perfect match? Check out my All Inclusive Elopement Packages and reach out if you’re ready to elope in Colorado.