The Best Places to Elope in Colorado
Mountain, Lake, Forest, & Intimate Elopement Locations
This is why everyone and their dog wants to elope here
Because you can self-solemnize, eat snacks, have your dog sign your marriage license, and disappear into the mountains without a 4 hour hike.
The best places to elope in Colorado aren’t hard to find, but picking the right one is where you can get tripped up. You can self solemnize here (no officiant or witnesses needed!), but Colorado is popular, permits are real, and some locations go from peaceful to OH NO very fast.
This guide breaks down the best elopement locations in Colorado and links out to specific towns and areas so you can figure out what actually fits your day, your comfort level, and how far you feel like walking before you need a snack. So let’s find your spot. Your vibe. Your, “oh yeah, this is the place” place.
How to Choose Where to Elope in Colorado
accessibility vs. hiking
Some spots are a short drive and a quick walk and then bam: mountains everywhere. Others are a 4 hour uphill ordeal with a dog and a charcuterie board. So know how much hiking you actually want.
Privacy
Colorado is popular. Some lakes and vistas are basically Instagram highways. Others? Ghost town vibes. Decide if you want just you two, or you and a buncha tourists.
Dogs
Colorado is packed with off leash trails, alpine lakes, and fields where your pup can run wild (and photo bomb). Some spots are dog friendly, other can be dangerous.
Seasons
Winter? Snow globe vibes, frozen noses, hot cocoa required. Summer? Wildflowers, green mountains. Spring and Fall? Mud, changing leaves, unpredictable weather (classic Colorado). Pick your season based on what makes you happiest, not just the calendar.
Best Places to Elope in Colorado (By Location)
Aspen
Want an elopement that’s equal parts adventure and a lotta bit fancy?
Aspen is for couples who want jaw dropping scenery with some bougie luxury. I’m talking hiking to an alpine lake at sunrise, saying your vows with the Maroon Bells towering behind you, then wrapping up the day at a Michelin star restaurant. Whether you're all about exploring high altitude trails or sipping Veuve Clicquot after an epic day outside, Aspen gives you the best of both worlds. Wild adventure with a touch of high end comfort.
Aspen is a perfect elopement location for couples who:
Want to chase adventure but still end the day with a glass of wine and a cozy stay
Love dramatic mountain views, golden aspen groves, and crisp alpine air
Aren’t afraid to spend some cash to eat, stay, and play at high end places
Helpful Stuff for Eloping in Aspen
Boulder
Looking for an elopement that feels adventurous, but without going totally off grid?
Getting married in Boulder is perfect for couples who want a mix of mountain scenery and city comforts. This is where you can say your vows at a scenic overlook just minutes from downtown, and follow it up with celebratory drinks at a local brewery and dinner on a cozy patio. It’s the kind of place where you can spend the morning exploring a trail, and the evening wrapped in the city lights. No 4x4 or high altitude hikes required.
Whether you're dreaming of an intimate moment with the Flatirons as your backdrop or want a guest friendly celebration close to the Denver airport with good food and even better views, Boulder strikes that sweet spot between nature and convenience.
Great for couples who:
Want beautiful views without venturing too far from town
Prefer easy access spots over long hikes or remote trails
Love craft breweries, good food, and laid back vibes
Are planning an elopement that might include a few guests
Real Boulder Elopements
Brainard Lake Recreation Area
Mountain peaks close to the city without the crazy mountain drive.
If you want mountain drama without having to hike 20 miles or drive 5 hours, welcome to Brainard Lake Recreation Area. Glassy lakes, jagged peaks, tundra air, moose literally everywhere. This place is pure Colorado where you can say your vows on a lakeshore with the mountains looming behind you and be back in town for pizza and beer before your legs realize they were even outside.
A very important logistical heads up (because Brainard is beautiful but also popular): From July to October you need a parking permit to access the area. These are timed entry reservations and they go fast! In the winter, the parking lots are closed and access is via a winter trailhead which requires hiking. So basically this is a place where logistics matter a lot more, but the payoff is very worth it.
Great for couples who:
Want straight up alpine views without backpacking their souls into another dimension
Love lakes, peaks, tundra energy, but want accessibility
Are down to plan ahead if it means unreal scenery
Are okay with me interrupting your vows in case a moose is walking directly towards you because it has happened
Real Elopements at Brainard Lake Recreation Area
Breckenridge
Want an elopement that’s equal parts mountain magic and cozy charm?
Breckenridge is perfect for couples who want to soak in the stunning mountain scenery without skimping on comfort. Whether hiking through wildflower covered trails, exchanging vows by an alpine lake, or cozying up in a historic cabin, Breck offers the perfect mix of adventure and accessibility. With epic views, a charming downtown, and year round outdoor activities, it’s a spot that makes eloping feel effortless and fun. And lets be real, Breck is just…magical.
Great for couples who:
Want mountain town charm mixed with adventure
Love easy access to stunning scenery without needing a 4WD vehicle
Are excited about celebrating with a post elopement dinner or brewery stop in town
Have a few days to explore because there is SO much
Wedding Galleries From Breckenridge Elopements
Buena Vista
If towering peaks, river views, and small town vibes sound like your dream location, let me introduce you to Buena Vista (or as the locals call it, BV).
Buena Vista is a hidden gem for couples who want a stunning Colorado landscapes without the crowds. With the Sawatch Range as your backdrop, you can say your vows in a wildflower filled meadow, along the Arkansas River, or with an alpine lake behind you. Whether you’re doing an easy hike, soaking in nearby hot springs, or taking a scenic drive up Cottonwood Pass, BV is a dream for couples who want some adventure with a very laid back feel.
Great for couples who:
Want a mix of rugged mountain beauty and that chill small town energy
Love the idea of a riverside ceremony or a high elevation adventure
Are excited about post ceremony hot springs or camping under the stars
Real Buena Vista Elopements
Crested Butte
What Colorado wedding dreams are made of. Wildflowers, alpine lakes, and untouched mountain landscapes.
If you’re after breathtaking scenery, epic hikes, and the kind of solitude that makes you feel like the only two people in the world, Crested Butte delivers. This mountain town is known for its incredible wildflower meadows, crystal clear lakes, and stunning high alpine passes. Whether you’re hiking to a secluded spot, off roading to a “this can’t be real” viewpoint, or just taking in the beauty from town, CB is perfect for couples who want that middle of nowhere magic.
Great for couples who:
Want to be surrounded by wildflowers, peaks, and alpine lakes
Are cool with early mornings, a little dirt on their boots, and earning their views with a bit of adventure
Don’t mind sharing the beauty with a few others along the way. I promise the scenery is worth it
Best Real Crested Butte Elopement Locations
Gateway
Want to feel like you’re eloping in a wild west movie, minus the cowboys, plus epic red rock scenery?
Gateway is a hidden gem for couples who love the desert but don’t want to share it with the Moab crowds. I’m talkin’ towering canyon walls, winding scenic roads, and wide open spaces that make Gateway an unreal backdrop for an adventurous elopement. Whether you’re exploring the remote desert landscapes, taking a scenic drive on the Unaweep-Tabeguache Byway, or finding a quiet spot along the Dolores River, Gateway is perfect for couples craving something unique and off the beaten path.
Great for couples who:
Want desert vibes without the tourist packed trails
Love the idea of exchanging vows with towering red rock cliffs all around
Are down for a scenic drive or a remote, secluded ceremony spot
Gateway Colorado Elopement Galleries
Grand Junction
Where vineyards meet canyons and the desert meets the mountains.
If you want a landscape that’s a little bit of everything, rugged desert cliffs, lush orchards, and views that stretch for miles, Grand Junction is a stunning and versatile elopement destination. Whether you’re hiking through the monoliths of Colorado National Monument, sipping wine in Palisade, or finding a quiet spot along the Colorado River, this area is perfect for couples who want something truly one of a kind!
Great for couples who:
Want a mix of dramatic desert landscapes and vineyard views
Love exploring hidden gems and way less traveled scenic spots
Are up for hiking to epic overlooks or enjoying a post ceremony wine tasting
Grand Junction Elopement Locations
Guanella Pass
If easy drive, gorgeous view, and close to Denver sounds like your jam, let me introduce you to Guanella Pass.
Guanella Pass is that “oh wow we’re tiny specks on a giant mountain” kind of spot. Just outside Georgetown and about 45 minutes from Denver, it’s perfect for couples who want stunning views, and enough mountains to make you feel like you just wandered into a postcard. You can self solemnize at sunrise or sunset, snap some epic photos by wildflowers or peaks, or just pull over and soak in the alpenglow. And still be back in Denver for lunch.
Great for couples who:
Want to feel off the grid with endless mountain views without being too far away
Are up for a scenic drive
Love the idea of a peaceful, intimate day surrounded by untouched wilderness
Real Guanella Pass Elopements
Lake City
If “middle of nowhere” adventure sounds like your dream day, howdy. Lake City is calling.
Tucked away in the San Juan Mountains, Lake City is for couples who want jaw dropping mountain scenery, remote 4WD trails, and honestly, the kind of quiet that makes it feel like the rest of the world doesn’t exist. You can exchange vows by a secluded alpine lake, off road to a high mountain pass, or take in the breathtaking views along the Alpine Loop. If solitude and adventure are at the top of your list, this tiny mountain town is worth the journey. I think Lake City is the top most underrated location in Colorado and if you were to ask me where I think you should elope in Colorado if you want privacy, I’m gonna say here.
Great for couples who:
Want to feel completely off the grid with endless mountain views
Are up for a scenic drive or off road adventure to a remote ceremony spot
Love the idea of a peaceful, intimate day surrounded by untouched wilderness
Helpful Info for Eloping in Lake City Colorado
Leadville
Historic streets, lakes, and the kind of solitude that makes it feel like the mountains are there just for you.
If you’re chasing big sky views, quirky old mining town charm, and a vibe that’s part high altitude wilderness and part dusty backroad magic, Leadville’s got it. You can paddle on a lake at sunrise, drive up to your ceremony spot with a coffee in hand, and say your vows with your dog curled up next to you - all without spending Aspen prices (or hiking 9 miles uphill).
Great for couples who:
Want the small mountain town feel, with access to great food and affordable prices
Don’t mind a little extra driving to find secluded spots off the radar
Would rather eat a charcuterie board next to an alpine lake than sip champagne with 200 guests
Tips for Eloping in Leadville, Colorado
Red rock cathedrals, quiet sandstone arches, wide open desert views that make you feel like you’re on another planet. If you want an elopement day with warm sun, wild colors, and that cozy “we’re tiny” in the best way feeling, Moab hits every sweet spot. Between sunrise over the canyons, sneaking off to a quiet arch, or wandering sandy trails with your person, it’s the kind of place you’ll never forget.
Great for couples who:
Love dramatic desert scenery and red rock views
Want an easy access adventure and don’t mind some 4x4 adventures to get there
Are dreaming of warm light, starry skies, and a wild elopement that feels otherworldly
Moab, Utah Elopement Locations
Ouray
The lovechild of Colorado, Switzerland, and a far too many 4x4 trails (just kidding, that’s not a thing). With hot springs and alpenglow that’ll make you emotional if you stare too long.
Ouray’s nickname is the "Switzerland of America," and honestly... they aren’t wrong. It's rugged, it’s remote, and the perfect playground for an elopement. Imagine hiking to a waterfall before lunch, off roading up a cliff in the afternoon, saying your vows in front of a glacial amphitheater, then soaking in a hot spring by sunset, beer in hand, staring at the stars.
Perfect if you're the kind of couple who:
Wants actual mountains in your mountain elopement (no offense, Denver)
Likes your landscapes rugged, your roads a little sketchy, and your adventure options endless
Think a hot spring soak after getting married sounds like a damn good idea (because it is)
Real Ouray, Colorado Elopement Locations
Ridgway
Best for couples who want a quiet mountain escape with a Wild West feel.
Ridgway is the perfect mix of rugged adventure and peaceful mountain town charm. Surrounded by towering peaks and rolling meadows, this area is ideal for couples who want insane views without the crowds. With access to scenic backroads, hidden alpine lakes, and quiet aspen groves, Ridgway offers a secluded yet easily accessible elopement experience. Plus, with a handful of cozy lodges and hot springs nearby, you can end your adventure with a well earned soak under the stars.
Great for couples who:
Want stunning San Juan Mountain views without the tourist traffic
Love the idea of a peaceful, nature filled elopement with a touch of rustic charm
Are up for exploring a mix of high elevation passes, rolling meadows, and secret alpine lakes
Ridgway, Colorado Elopement Places
Rocky Mountain National Park is for couples who want the full Colorado experience. Towering peaks, alpine lake after alpine lake after alpine lake, and wildlife casually wandering by like they own the place (because they do). With drive up overlooks, easy hikes, and views that range from “is this real” to “okay I might poop my pants”, RMNP is perfect. If you want a classic mountain wedding day filled with jaw dropping scenery, elope here. Bonus tip: this is the best place to elope in the winter in Colorado as everything stays accessible year round.
Great for couples who:
Want iconic Colorado mountain views without trekking miles into the backcountry
Love the idea of alpine lakes, sweeping overlooks, and wildlife
Are down for an early morning start to avoid the crowds
Rocky Mountain National Park Elopement Locations
Silverton
Best for couples who want a remote and high altitude adventure with access by 4x4.
If you’re craving an elopement that feels like stepping into the middle of nowhere (in the best way), Silverton delivers. Surrounded by some of the most rugged peaks in Colorado, this tiny mountain town is all about adventure. From 4WD roads leading to panoramic views to hidden basins and backcountry lakes, Silverton is for couples who want to embrace the wild. Whether you’re exchanging vows on a dramatic mountain pass or celebrating with a quiet moment by an alpine lake, it’s an unbeatable setting for an off the grid elopement.
Great for couples who:
Want an elopement that feels truly remote and adventurous
Love high altitude mountain landscapes with dramatic scenery
Are up for exploring rugged 4WD trails and finding the perfect secluded spot
Best Silverton, Colorado Elopement Locations
Telluride
Best for couples who want jaw dropping and easily accessible views with a touch of luxury.
Telluride is one of Colorado’s most iconic mountain towns, and for good reason. With massive peaks towering over town, a historic downtown full of charm, and access to some of the most scenic spots in the state, this place is a dream for elopements. Whether you’re riding the gondola up to a stunning overlook, exploring the San Juan mountains for a private ceremony, or celebrating with a gourmet dinner afterward, Telluride is perfect for couples who want both epic adventure and a little bit of indulgence.
Great for couples who:
Want a mix of adventure and upscale mountain town charm
Love the idea of eloping somewhere with stunning peaks, waterfalls, and alpine lakes
Are excited about hiking, easy off roading, or taking the gondola up for unbeatable views
Real Telluride Elopement and Wedding Locations
Winter Park
The mountain town for couples who want epic views without the ego.
Winter Park is the cool black sheep of the Colorado mountain towns. It’s got endless trails, cozy cabins, and a super relaxed energy where nobody is trying too hard. The whole place is a vibe for elopements. You can sneak off to 4WD roads for a private ceremony, wander through pine forests, ski the backcountry, and still end the day with comfort food in front of a fireplace. This place is cozy AF.
Great for couples who:
Want a relaxed mountain feel without the intimidation factor
Love the idea of sneaking into the forest, finding a private spot, and saying vows surrounded by pine trees
Are okay with a longer, bumpier drive up a 4x4 road for some privacy and great views
Best Places to Elope in Winter Park
Free Places to Elope in Colorado
Yeeees we have free places to elope in Colorado! But no that doesn’t mean YOLO, vows anywhere, zero rules.
Most National Forest and BLM land now fall under the Explore Act, which basically means you can get married without a permit if you keep it under 6 people and chill. No big setups, no arches, rugs, chairs, bumpin’ music. Just you and your person.
National Parks are different. Those always need permits. Some State Parks too. We’ll avoid the ones where a ranger could roll up mid-vows and ruin the vibe.
So yeah, free is absolutely doable. You just need to know where it’s actually allowed, what counts as “simple,” and how to not accidentally plan something that turns into OH NO. That’s where I come in.
★★★★★
“Kimberly helped us find the most beautiful ceremony location and knows the mountains like the back of her hand! She was the ideal adventure wedding photographer—driving with us up to 12,400 ft on Jones Pass to capture our ceremony on gravel roads. The following morning, we returned for sunrise photos. We couldn’t be happier with how they turned out. Looking through them brings the day right back to life. We can’t recommend working with Kimberly enough!”
Kind Words From a Past Couple
HOW THIS WHOLE THING GOES DOWN
Okay, here is where we let go of the “perfect” wedding, the family opinions, the social pressure, the imagined shots. You pick the moments, the place, and the vibe that feels right for you.
1. Burn the rulebook and
celebrate your way.
2. I help you dream it up, plan it
out, and make it feel easy.
Locations! Activities! Permits! Timing! Lighting! The backup plan when Colorado does something weird with the weather...all handled. You just show up, take some deep breaths, and soak it all in.
Somewhere between the laughter, the wind blown hair, the ugly crying and the cake crumbs, it hits you. This is exactly what you wanted. All heart, perfect, unforgettable, and 100% yours.
3. We make it ridiculously yours.
Ready for the Easiest Yes of Your Life?
Here’s How to Book
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I know you’ve probably looked through a hundred websites by now and are super overwhelmed SO - let’s just hop on a call and talk! We can bounce ideas, talk seasons, get to know each other, and I promise it will all become a little less scary. Fill out the contact form to get the ball rollin’!
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This is where I get really nosey. How did you meet (I promise I won’t judge if you met on tinder because, same)! How long have you been together! What do you like to do together! What are you dreaming up?! What is the ideal backdrop for where you wanna say your vows? How do you imagine your time around your wedding day?
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If we all jive and vibe and the feelin’s are all mutual, I’ll send over a contract outlining the proposal and services. Signing the contract and submitting a non-refundable retainer via ACH or bank transfer secures your date, so we can officially start planning your adventure together!!!!! Then basically I take it from there.
