Colorado Elopement Planning Guide
So you’re interested in eloping in Colorado! You’ve got good taste, Colorado is by far one of the most beautiful places to elope on the planet, and we are thrilled that you’re here. When you elope in Colorado, you are spoiled with countless beautiful locations. Do you want to stand on a mountaintop and profess your love? Do you want to run through a meadow? Do you want to hike to a bright blue alpine lake? Or would you like to explore a pine forest? Colorado’s got you covered.
You’ve probably heard that wedding planning is stressful, but we assure you that this won’t be the case! Our goal is to make planning your elopement not only stress-free but also a lot of fun! In this guide, we help you create a vision for your wedding day, share some of our favorite locations to elope in Colorado, give you a low-down on what each month in Colorado is like, and give you tips and tricks for staying safe and making the most of your elopement!
Updated January 14th, 2023
Hi, we’re Lisa + Alex, and we are Colorado elopement photographers and videographers!
We were both born and raised in Colorado. When we’re not working, you can find us exploring, hiking, and scouting in the mountains with our adventure-loving chihuahua, Poppy. We love sharing our favorite places with our couples!
In 2016, we eloped with 12 guests, and that experience is the basis for everything we do. Planning our own elopement day meant running into a brick wall of choice, with no resources to help us. We had fun, but only after investing an insane amount of time to figure out how to make our elopement feel just as momentous as a wedding day should be. We didn’t want to feel like we just walked up a hill and said some vows, so we crafted a day that really allowed us to feel emotionally overwhelmed in all the best ways.
We’ve taken that process, improved upon it even more, and passed it on to every couple who works with us. Honestly, we don’t really consider ourselves just photographers and videographers anymore, we’re also planners, and experience providers, and the annoying mom who reminds you to drink enough water. Gotta stay hydrated.
One of the most common questions we get from our couples is “Where do I start with planning my own elopement in Colorado?” And that’s what we’re here for! We’ve lived in Colorado all our lives and we’ve helped many couples plan their dream elopements! To help get you started, we put together a resource filled with our tips for planning your own elopement in Colorado!
Disclosure: Sometimes we use affiliate links in our elopement planning blog posts. This does not cost you anything, but it helps support the creation of these free, informational blog posts. Thank you for your support!
What’s in this Colorado elopement planning guide?
Table of Contents
When You Should Elope in Colorado
How To Pick Your Elopement Date
How to Choose the Perfect Colorado Elopement Location
Recommended Regions in Colorado for Elopements
Gorgeous Colorado Elopement Location Ideas
Ceremony Guidance (What Does an Elopement Ceremony Look Like?)
How to Get a Colorado Marriage License
What to Wear to Your Colorado Elopement
Adventure Elopement Packing Essentials
How Much Does a Colorado Elopement Cost?
How to Avoid Altitude Sickness
Colorado Elopement Photography and Videography Packages
The Best Time of Year to Elope in Colorado
Colorado is beautiful year-round. The winter and spring offer magical snow, the summers are warm and sunny, and in the fall, the leaves change to the most beautiful colors.
Before choosing a wedding date, decide what your ideal weather is:
Are you okay with snowy or even blizzard conditions?
Are you more interested in warm weather?
Would you like the trees to be green or orange and yellow?
What kinds of activities do you want to be incorporated into your wedding day (hiking, off-roading, snowshoeing)?
Weather in Colorado
Colorado is known for having unpredictable weather. We often joke that we don’t know why we even look at the forecast because it changes so rapidly!
Winter weather sticks around much longer than people expect. Spring may officially start at the end of March, but it often doesn’t feel like spring until the end of May. Alex’s birthday is on May 17th, and it is not uncommon for it to snow on his birthday. Because of this, the snow can stick around until mid-June, and some high country roads don’t open until the end of June or early July.
Winter weather arrives earlier than in some other states. This is especially true in the high country. Snow can start falling in the mountains starting at the end of September, but most commonly in mid-October. Down in Denver, we usually get our first snow around Halloween.
Mountain afternoon thunderstorms are a daily occurrence in the summer. Fortunately, they typically move through quickly. We purposely build wiggle room into all timelines in case we need to wait out a storm. A great way to avoid thunderstorms if you’re planning on being out in the wilderness is to get married in the morning (sunrise ceremonies are our favorite). That way, you can be safe and off the mountain by the time the weather rolls in. Another option is to get married later in the day.
Temperatures are colder at higher elevations. Sometimes it can be difficult to look at the forecast once you’re out of a major town. We recommend checking the weather in the nearest town, but being aware that the higher in elevation you go, the chillier it will be. For example, if you’re getting married at Independence Pass, you can check the weather in Aspen to get a general idea of what you can expect as far as weather, and then know that it will be colder on the Pass than in Aspen. Even if you are getting married in the middle of summer, we suggest bringing a jacket or blanket to keep you warm, especially around sunrise and sunset.
JANUARY through APRIL are all considered winter in Colorado. While we do get a few scattered nice days, the chances for freezing temperatures and snow are high, particularly in the mountains. Many mountain passes will be closed, and blizzard conditions, as well as avalanches, are known to cause closures on the main mountain highways (such as I-70, Hwy 36, and Hwy 285) as well as hiking trails. Hiking may require snowshoes or microspikes and you’ll want to be sure to bundle up with jackets, gloves, and handwarmers to stay warm.
MAY is a transition month in Colorado. You can still expect cold/chilly temperatures and snow in the mountains. Day by day, the weather can vary greatly, ranging from the 70s to below freezing. Unless it has been a particularly snowy year, mountain passes usually begin to open toward the end of the month. For May weddings, we always suggest having a Plan B in case the weather takes a turn for the worse.
JUNE is the first month that Colorado begins to warm up. For most parts of the country, June is officially summer, but in Colorado, June feels more like spring. At the beginning of the month, temperatures will still be chilly, and there will likely still be snow on the mountains and some leftover snow on hiking trails. Mountain passes will continue to open, and most should be accessible by the middle of the month. By mid June, foliage will quickly begin to come back to life and the waterfalls will be flowing at full force.
JULY is when Colorado finally starts to feel like true summer. Wildflowers will begin to bloom and be in full force by the middle of the month. By now, most hiking trails, off-road trails, and mountain passes should be open. Still, at high elevation, particularly at sunrise, temperatures will be chilly, and we recommend a warm jacket and gloves. Apart from afternoon thunderstorms, the weather is usually warm and sunny during the day.
AUGUST, like July, has the best chance of warm weather and almost guaranteed access to hiking trails, off-road trails, and mountain passes. Still, we suggest packing a warm jacket and gloves just in case! Sunrise or a hike at 12,000ft is going to be chilly no matter what time of year it is!
SEPTEMBER is one of our favorite months to elope in Colorado. The beginning of the month usually has warm temperatures, but these will slowly drop as the month goes on. From mid-September until the end of September, the aspen leaves will begin to change colors, and the mountains glow with warm yellows and oranges. If fall foliage is a priority for you, it’s important to know that the leaves will peak at different dates depending on the region within Colorado. These exact dates can vary year-to-year based on temperatures and precipitation, but we can help you pick a date or location that will give you the best chance of peak fall foliage! Toward the end of the month, snow is possible at higher elevations.
OCTOBER is when the weather really starts to cool down in Colorado. If you’re still hoping for fall foliage you’ll need to head down to the Southwest (Crested Butte, Telluride, Ouray, Grand Junction, Durango, etc.) or the Front Range (Denver, Boulder, Golden, Colorado Spring, etc.) where the leaves usually change a bit later than the rest of Colorado. By mid-October, most of the leaves will have fallen, the temperatures start dropping, and snow becomes a real possibility. Toward the end of the month, mountain passes begin closing for the season and snow is much more likely.
NOVEMBER through DECEMBER is when winter really kicks off in Colorado. Similar to January through April, it is possible to get a few scattered nice days, but the chances of freezing temperatures and snow are high. Many mountain passes will be closed, and blizzard conditions, as well as avalanches, are known to cause closures on the main mountain highways (such as I-70, Hwy 36, and Hwy 285). Hiking may require snowshoes or microspikes and you’ll want to be sure to bundle up with jackets, gloves, and hand warmers to stay warm. But all that being said, it sure is beautiful!
How to Pick Your Elopement Date
The day you choose for your elopement can have a big effect on your experience. Many of our couples have flexibility when choosing their wedding date, so here are some things to consider:
Pick a Weekday
We always suggest that our couples elope on a weekday, if possible. We believe that your elopement day should be a private experience for you in nature, and choosing a weekday is a simple way to avoid crowds.
If you’re planning your wedding on a quick timeline, you are more likely to find accommodation and ceremony site availability if you choose a weekday. As a team that focuses solely on planning and capturing Colorado elopements, we estimate that 75% of our elopements are on weekdays.
Avoid Holidays
While it might initially make sense to elope on a holiday, we suggest avoiding eloping on a holiday or the days surrounding it. On weekends like Memorial Day and Labor Day and summer holidays like the Fourth of July, the mountains are full of locals and visitors taking a break in the mountains. This will flood hiking trails with people, and give you fewer options (and possibly increase prices) for your accommodation and ceremony.
How to Choose the Perfect Colorado Elopement Location
1. What kind of views do you dream about?
Many of our couples tell us that they want stunning mountaintop views, while others envision saying their vows at the edge of an alpine lake. Make a list of the landscapes that catch your eye, as well as a list of locations you’ve already found in your research.
For couples who hire us, we use this information to narrow down our location suggestions to places that fit their unique wedding vision.
2. How far you are willing to drive from Denver?
There are many incredible elopement locations within 3 hours of Denver (such as Rocky Mountain National Park and Breckenridge) as well as amazing locations within a 4-6 hour drive (such as Telluride, Aspen, and Crested Butte).
3. Would you like to hike or off-road?
Colorado has so many hiking trails that it is not impossible to be alone in a location, completely surrounded by nature. Are you not a hiker but still want some adventure in your wedding day? We also know of many amazing locations that are accessible using 4WD vehicles!
3. Are there any other activities you would like to do?
Thinking about the unique activities you would like to do will also help you select the perfect elopement location. Choose a pristine lake for stand up paddle boarding. Choose a dog-friendly trail if you plan to bring your furry best friend. Or find a private hot spring to relax in!
Where to Elope in Colorado - Best Areas in the State
When a couple hires us to help them plan (and photograph + film, of course) their elopement, we like to start broad when looking at possible locations. There are so many different regions and little mountain towns in Colorado, each with their own landscapes and personalities.
We start with a few questions to help us start to narrow down the perfect region of Colorado for your elopement:
What views inspire you the most? (mountaintops, pine forests, rivers, aspen trees, alpine lakes, mountain towns with lots of character)
What activities do you want to do? (hiking, off-roading, sunrise hot air balloon ride, picnic in the forest, calm morning at a cozy Airbnb)
What time of year would you like to elopement in?
How far are you wanting to drive from a major airport?
How many guests are you expecting?
Looking for the perfect venue for your Colorado elopement?
Breckenridge Elopements
If you’re looking for a location that is easily accessible from Denver, has countless restaurant options, and great views, then Breckenridge might be the perfect place for you! Located about an hour and a half from Denver, Breckenridge is a popular spot for elopements. The area, which also consists of the towns of Frisco, Dillon, and Silverthorne offer hundreds of hotel, Airbnb, and Vrbo accommodation options, so you’re bound to find the perfect place to stay!
Ceremony Options in Breckenridge
Sapphire Point Overlook - Many couples choose to have their ceremony at Sapphire Point Overlook, which is pretty easily accessible for guests of all ability levels. The site has room for up to 35 people and is perched on a cliff, overlooking Lake Dillon. Permits are available up to six months in advance and cost $110, and are available year-round.
Windy Point Campground - This is a great option for couples who want to have a lakeside ceremony and then a causal picnic-style reception afterward. The permits cost $250 and it’s dog-friendly!
The Lodge at Breckenridge - Have your ceremony on a beautiful deck that is perfect for ceremonies of all sizes. Between its easy access, convenient morning rental options, the ability to decorate the space, and amazing view of the Ten Mile Range, it’s one of our favorite places to have a small wedding in Breckenridge. It’s also dog-friendly!
Lake Dillon Marina Park Pavilion - Similarly to Windy Point Campground, the Marina Park Pavilion is an easily accessible ceremony site with gorgeous views of Lake Dillon, that also allows dogs. Reservations are only available from May 1st until September 30th, with reservations becoming available on the first business day in May of the current year.
Silverthorne Pavilion - This is a great option if you’re looking for an affordable but more traditional venue. You can choose between their indoor and outdoor ceremony sites, then enjoy cocktail hour on their patio, before heading into their ballroom for your reception. This site is available year-round.
Beaver Run Resort - This ceremony space is similar to The Lodge at Breckenridge. Beaver Run Resort has three outdoor ceremony sites to choose from: Patio on the Green, Spencer’s Deck, and The Coppertop Patio. Ceremony site fees include a two-hour rental. This rental includes chair set up and take down.
Adventure Options in Breckenridge
The area around Breckenridge is surrounded by incredible views! Hike through a forest of aspen trees, sit at the edge of Lake Dillon, stand at the edge of an alpine lake, take a bumpy dirt road to the top of a mountain, or look up at a waterfall.
Best Time of Year to Visit Breckenridge
The Breckenridge area is accessible year-round. In the summer and early fall months, the mountain passes and off-road trails are open. In the late fall, Breckenridge, Keystone, and Arapahoe Basin typically open up for the ski season. Popular locations such as Sapphire Point and some lower-elevation trails are still accessible throughout the year, unless there has been a recent snow storm.
Our Favorite Breckenridge Elopements
Interested in learning more about eloping in this region of Colorado?
Check out our Breckenridge Elopement Guide
Crested Butte Elopements
The small ski town of Crested Butte is one of our favorite places in Colorado. It’s located about four and a half hours from Denver, but it’s well worth the drive! The small downtown is adorable and packed with incredible restaurants (we recommend Sunflower, Bonez Tacos, and Secret Stash Pizza). And beyond the town itself, Crested Butte is surrounded by some of the most beautiful National Forest lands in Colorado. Drive up Kebler Pass, hike through the aspen trees, or drive up a 4x4 trail in a Jeep.
Ceremony Options in Crested Butte
Crested Butte has quite a few designated ceremony sites just a short drive from the center of town. The Mountain Wedding Garden is surrounded by wildflowers and has gorgeous mountain views. Uley’s Cabin and Ten Peaks are incredible spaces with expansive mountain views located at Crested Butte Mountain Resort. Or, if you have a smaller guest count and would rather be a little further from town, you can get married within the National Forest for between $150 and $300 depending on the time of year and the exact location you choose.
Adventure Options in Crested Butte
Crested Butte is packed full of beautiful places to explore. In the summer and early fall, you can take a drive up Kebler Pass or even stop in the revived ghost town of Gothic on your way up Schofield Pass. Mountain bike to your heart’s content, swim in a mountain lake or hike through the wildflowers.
Best Time of Year to Visit Crested Butte
The town of Crested Butte is accessible year-round, but our favorite times to visit are in July and September. During July, the entire area is covered in wildflowers, literally covered. In fact, we’ve never seen more wildflowers in our lives. Then in mid-to-late September when the leaves start changing is also stunning. Aspen trees can be found all over Crested Butte, so in the fall, the entire mountain glows with oranges and yellows.
Our Favorite Crested Butte Elopements
Estes Park Elopements
Estes Park is one of Colorado’s most popular elopement locations. There are a few different areas around Estes Park that are great for elopements, however, most of our couples decide to get married in Rocky Mountain National Park. Located just outside of Estes Park, Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the best “bang for your buck” locations. Whenever people we know only come to visit Colorado for a short amount of time, we always suggest a day trip to the park. The reason we love RMNP so much is that there is a huge variety of views in a relatively small area. The main entrances on the Estes Park side are both less than two hours from Denver, making it an easy drive.
Ceremony Options in Estes Park
There are quite a few different ceremony site options within Rocky Mountain National Park. Our favorite sites are Sprague Lake, Hidden Valley, 3M Curve, and Upper Beaver Meadows. Permits for weddings within RMNP cost $300 and give you a two-hour window to have your ceremony, but you can spend the rest of the day exploring the park. Click here to view all of the ceremony options within RMNP.
Adventure Options in Estes Park
Rocky Mountain National Park has something for everyone. Take a short hike up to Nymph and Dream Lake. Or take a long hike up to the gorgeous alpine lake named Sky Pond. Explore Moraine Park and feel surrounded on all sides by mountains. Or take a drive to the top of Trail Ridge Road and feel like you are on top of the world, and maybe catch a glimpse of some sunning marmots.
Best Time of Year to Visit Estes Park
The lower half of the park is open year-round, as are the ceremony sites. The road to Trail Ridge Road is typically open to vehicles from Memorial Day until mid-October. Our favorite time to visit the park is from June to the end of September.
Our Favorite Estes Park Elopements
Check out our Rocky Mountain National Park Elopement Guide
Aspen Elopements
You probably already have a vision in your head of what Aspen is like. And while it is one of the most expensive towns in America, where the rich and famous tend to gather, it’s also surrounded by some of the most beautiful landscapes in the state. Aspen is about four and a half hours from Denver, but we encourage you to make a road trip out of it with time for stops along the way.
Ceremony Options in Aspen
Aspen’s most famous ceremony site is the Maroon Bells Amphitheater, and there’s a reason thousands of people flock there every year, the views are otherworldly. Because of its popularity, getting a permit can be competitive. The Maroon Bells Amphitheater is typically open from the beginning of June until the beginning of October, with one wedding permitted per weekday (they do not allow weddings on Saturdays or Sundays). Permits become available starting 12 months in advance. Click here to reserve your Maroon Bells Amphitheater ceremony permit.
Maybe you’re hoping to elope sooner than 12 months and you can’t get a permit for the Maroon Bells, don’t worry, Aspen has other options for you! Have you ever considered getting married in a ghost town? Or maybe the idea of renting a private mountaintop cabin is more your style.
Adventure Options in Aspen
The mountains surrounding Aspen are packed full of hiking trails and overlooks. Take the 3.8 mile hike from the Maroon Bells Amphitheater to Crater Lake, run through mountain meadows, or drive to the top of Independence Pass.
Best Time of Year to Visit Aspen
While Aspen is a ski town and accessible year-round, we suggest aiming for June through September. This ensures that mountain passes, trails, and roads will be open.
Our Favorite Aspen Elopements
San Juan Mountains Elopements
When our couples ask about our favorite region in Colorado, we immediately think of the San Juan mountains in Southwestern Colorado. Located about 6 hours from Denver, the San Juans are one of the more remote areas to elope in. But if you’re looking for an adventurous elopement with amazing off-road Jeep trails, mind blowing views, and great hikes, we think it’s worth the drive. When visiting this area, most of our couples base themselves in either the ski town of Telluride or the quaint towns of Ouray and Silverton.
Ceremony Options in the San Juans
One of the most beautiful ceremony sites, San Sophia Overlook, sits high above Telluride and is accessible by ski gondola. The views from the ceremony site are stunning and it’s easy to get to for your guests. If you’re looking for a private and luxurious experience, consider renting out the entire “ghost” town at Dunton Hot Springs. If you have a very small guest count, you can get married within the National Forest and have a unique experience in the wilderness.
Adventure Options in the San Juans
We like to describe the San Juan mountains as “mean.” The mountains in this region are towering, sharp, and unlike anywhere else in the state.
The San Juans have some of the best off-road Jeep trails in the state. Whether you base yourself in Telluride or Ouray, you will have plenty of options to self-drive or hire a professional Jeep tour. Or if you’re more interested in hiking, there are countless hikes to waterfalls, alpine lakes, and mountaintop views.
Best Time of Year to Visit the San Juans
Unless you’re hoping to ski, we recommend eloping in Telluride or Ouray between mid-July and early October. Because so much of the draw to this area is hiking and off-roading, we recommend avoiding any of the snowy seasons unless you plan to rent a venue space.
Our Favorite Telluride and Ouray Elopements
Interested in learning more about eloping on an off road trail?
Check out our Off Road Elopement Guide
Colorado Elopement Locations
The amazing thing about eloping is that you don’t necessarily need a venue! We specialize in weddings that are nontraditional, and we love thinking outside the box in regards to venues. Here are some ideas to get you started!
Elopements in National Parks and National Forests
Most of our couples get married in either a National Park, National Forest, or another type of Public Land. These locations are perfect for casual ceremonies surrounded by nature. When choosing popular locations, we highly recommend getting married on a weekday and at sunrise to avoid crowds.
Note that the permit process will be different for each location, so we always recommend contacting the location for more information on their requirements
Rocky Mountain National Park
RMNP is one of Colorado’s most popular elopement locations. If you choose RMNP, you will have access to great hiking, beautiful alpine lakes, and even top-of-the-world views on Trail Ridge Road.
There are quite a few different ceremony site options within Rocky Mountain National Park. Our favorite sites are Sprague Lake, Hidden Valley, 3M Curve, and Upper Beaver Meadows.
Permits cost $300 and give you a two-hour window to have your ceremony, but you can spend the rest of the day exploring the park.
Golden Gate Canyon State Park
This park is a great option if you’re looking to stay within an hour or so of Denver. They have one ceremony site option: Red Barn Group Picnic Area.
The price for wedding permits ranges from $150-$300 depending on the site you choose and the day of the week.
The park is full of hiking trails that offer beautiful forest and mountain views.
Garden of the Gods
Located in Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods is an incredible and unique place for your wedding. It’s free to elope in Garden of the Gods, and you have 6 ceremony sites to choose from depending on your group size and view preferences, miles of hiking trails for exploring after the ceremony, as well as two picnic sites for you and your guests to share a meal at.
Your ceremony site cannot be reserved and is available on a first come, first served basis.
Elopements at Designated Sites and Small Venues
Colorado is full of elopement ceremony sites that can be rented at an affordable rate. Sites like these are often not as private and often limit you to 2-hour time slots, but they are perfect if you have a guest count larger than 6 or you don’t want to hike to your ceremony.
Maroon Bells Amphitheater
Located right outside of Aspen, the “Bells” are known for their stunning views and breathtaking sunrises. The Amphitheater is easily accessible for your guests and has benches for seating. It’s even tucked away in a pretty private area so other visitors will not interfere with your ceremony.
You can get married at the Maroon Bells Amphitheater for only $200. Because of its popularity, getting a permit can be competitive. The Maroon Bells Amphitheater is typically open from the beginning of June until the beginning of October, with one wedding permitted per weekday (weekend weddings are only allowed during certain months). Permits become available starting 12 months in advance at 8 am Mountain Time.
Sapphire Point Overlook
If you’re looking for a breathtaking ceremony site that is accessible for your family and friends, check out Sapphire Point Overlook outside of Breckenridge. The views of Lake Dillon and the surrounding mountains are gorgeous and there are many places to explore nearby.
The site has room for up to 35 people and is perched on a cliff, overlooking Lake Dillon. Permits are available up to six months in advance at 8:00 AM Mountain Time and cost $110. Sapphire Point Overlook is available year-round.
The only drawback of Sapphire Point is that it is on a busy hiking trail, so there isn’t a whole lot of privacy, but people are usually respectful.
Piney River Ranch
Maybe you’re imagining a more traditional venue for your small wedding. Piney River Ranch is our favorite venue in Colorado. Located an hour from Vail, up a bumpy dirt road. (a vehicle with good clearance is highly recommended). Because of snow, the venue is open from June 21st until the end of September.
What makes Piney River Ranch so incredible is the view from the deck. Say your vows in front of Piney Lake, with Mt. Powell towering behind you. Then, celebrate with dinner and speeches in their reception pavilion.
The Lodge at Breckenridge
If you’re looking for a ceremony site that is easily accessible, offers accommodation for you and your guests, and is in a convenient location for your adventures in Breckenridge, then you might consider The Lodge at Breckenridge!
They have a special elopement package that includes use of their wedding deck on a weekday from 10am until 12pm. They will set up the chairs and you even have the choice of adding a champagne toast and a charcuterie board.
Ceremonies + Receptions at Private Rentals
You could spend hours and hours looking through gorgeous rental homes in Colorado. No matter what your style (modern, log cabin, Victorian), you’ll be able to find something that you love. We find that the best regions in Colorado for private rentals are Breckenridge, Grand Lake, Steamboat Springs, Crested Butte, and Telluride.
It’s possible to rent an incredible home with beautiful views and host your entire wedding day there!
The kinds of houses that are a good fit for this vision have large kitchens with dining space for you and your guests. If you’d like to stay on the property for your ceremony, keep an eye out for a convenient space, either on a large patio or in a yard with mountain views.
Note that it is important to check with your host prior to booking to make sure they allow events at their home! Some will require an additional deposit or fee for your event based on your guest count and your plans.
For couples wanting to go this route, we provide a list of our favorite rental options in their chosen location!
Event-Friendly Vrbo Listings in Colorado
We provide the couples who book with us a long list of rental options, but here’s a couple to get you started! Be sure to double-check each listing’s event policy prior to booking in case they’ve changed since this blog post was published.
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• Click here to view the listing on Vrbo
• Sleeps 8 (2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms)
• Pets Allowed
• Events Allowed -
• Click here to view the listing on Vrbo
• Sleeps 6 (4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms)
• Pets Allowed with Fee
• Events Allowed -
• Click here to view the listing on Vrbo
• Sleeps 8 (3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms)
• Pets Allowed
• Events Allowed -
• Click here to view the listing on Vrbo
• Sleeps 6 (4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms)
• Pets Allowed
• Events Allowed -
• Click here to view the listing on Vrbo
• Sleeps 10+ (5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms)
• Pets Allowed with Fee
• Events Allowed with Fee -
• Click here to view the listing on Vrbo
• Sleeps 16 (4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms)
• Pets Allowed
• Events Allowed -
• Click here to view the listing on Vrbo
• Sleeps 12 (5 Bedrooms, 4.5 Bathrooms)
• No Pets Allowed
• Events Allowed -
• Click here to view the listing on Vrbo
• Sleeps 22 (8 bedrooms, 7.5 bathrooms)
• Pets Allowed with Fee
• Events Allowed -
• Click here to view the listing on Vrbo
• Sleeps 25 (5 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms)
• Pets Allowed
• Events Allowed -
• Click here to view the listing on Vrbo
• Sleeps 12 (7 bedrooms, 6.5 bathrooms)
• Pets Allowed with Fee
• Events Allowed with Fee -
• Click here to view the listing on Vrbo
• Sleeps 15 (6 bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms)
• Pets Allowed
• Events Allowed -
• Click here to view the listing on Vrbo
• Sleeps 10+ (5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms)
• Pets Allowed with Fee
• Events Allowed with Fee -
• Click here to view the listing on Vrbo
• Sleeps 32 (7 bedrooms, 8.5 bathrooms)
• Pets Allowed
• Events Allowed
See Some Elopements at Private Rentals
Looking for some unique ideas for your Colorado elopement?
Check out our 41 ideas for your outdoor elopement
What Does an Elopement Ceremony Look Like?
What we love the most about elopement ceremonies is that they can be fully personalized to you! No matter how formal or informal you imagine it, we are here to help you brainstorm and bring your ideas to life!
Are you not interested in having a traditional walk down the aisle? Skip it. Do you love the idea of incorporating hand fasting or a ring warming to your ceremony? Let’s do it! Want to rent chairs for your family to sit at? Let’s find some beautiful wooden chairs! Want your guests to stand with you during the ceremony? We’ll help arrange everyone so you feel surrounded by their love and support.
Self-Solemnized Elopements
In Colorado, you are not required to have an officiant (or witnesses) at all to get legally married! This is our favorite option for elopements with zero or very few guests because it gives you ultimate freedom when choosing your ceremony location and ceremony time. Often during these ceremonies, Alex will do a short reading to set the mood, then give you space to read your vows. Then, he can help walk you through exchanging rings before telling you to kiss! If you’d rather guide your own ceremony, that’s okay, too!
Family or Friend Officiants
As we mentioned above, having an officiant is not required by law here in Colorado, but are often a great way to personalize your ceremony. It can be so special to have someone who knows you well speak at your ceremony because they can tell stories of your relationship and provide insight that no one else could! Because Colorado does not require an officiant, your family member or friend does not have to be ordained.
Hired Officiants
Hiring an officiant is a perfect option if you want a formal ceremony and you don’t have a guest to officiate. There are many options for hiring an officiant, no matter your religious or non-religious preferences. Many officiants will work closely with you to craft a custom and personalized ceremony.
We are happy to recommend officiants to you!
Are you feeling overwhelmed about writing vows for your elopement?
Check out our step-by-step guide & workbook for writing your own vows! We’re here to help you get over your fear of the blank page and guide you in writing personal and thoughtful vows.
How to Get a Colorado Marriage License
We always joke that it’s almost too easy to get married in Colorado. But here’s what you can expect when you get yours and how it all works!
How to Get a Marriage License
You can get your marriage license in any Colorado county and use it anywhere within the state. Some of our couples choose to get their license at the county clerk + recorder where they are getting married, and some stop in Denver on their way into the mountains. Either way is fine!
There is no waiting period in Colorado, you can pick up your marriage license on the same day of your elopement!
What you need to get your marriage license:
Make an appointment in advance
Fill out your marriage license application
Pay a fee of $30
Bring proof of identity to your appointment
Who Can Sign Your Marriage License
As we mentioned above, Colorado allows self-solemnized marriages. This means that no one needs to sign as officiant or witnesses on your license, unless you want them to! You can even have your dog sign your marriage license!
After your elopement day, you can either drop your license off in person, or mail it back in. You have 63 days to do this, but we recommend doing it as soon as you can!
What to Wear to Your Colorado Elopement
This is a question we get all the time. We all know what we’re expected to wear for a traditional wedding, but what should you wear on your elopement day?
All of this advice pertains to your guests as well! Many guests feel obligated to dress up for weddings, but we recommend giving your guests permission to dress warmly and comfortably. Suggest that they wear shoes that are comfortable to walk in, and let them bundle up and bring an umbrella if necessary. When you’re having an outdoor adventure elopement in Colorado, comfort is the most important thing!
How to Dress for Your Hiking Elopement
Many of our couples choose to spend at least part of their wedding day hiking. It is important to note that hiking is not required to have an incredible and adventurous wedding day! Some couples start their wedding day before sunrise and hike to their first look or ceremony site. In this case, we find it most convenient to hike up in warm hiking clothes and then change once we arrive. Other couples prefer to hike in their wedding clothes.
Disclosure: Sometimes we use affiliate links in our elopement planning blog posts and as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. This does not cost you anything, but it helps support the creation of these free, informational blog posts. Thank you for your support!
The Dress
Our couples often ask what makes a good adventure elopement dress. In our experience, it comes down to two things: comfort and movability. Get a dress that you can easily and freely move in and one that doesn’t constrict you or keep you from slinging a backpack on. Also, buy a dress and be okay with it getting dirty. You might be hiking through mud, crossing streams, twirling in the dirt, or dancing in the snow.
The Suit
Similar to our suggestions for the dress, make sure your suit is comfortable and not too tight. You don’t want to rip your pants while climbing up onto some rocks!
The Shoes
It’s common for our couples to ditch the heels and wear hiking boots instead. Pick out something that you like aesthetically, but also keep in mind comfort, warmth, and traction.
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Thursday Boot Co. Captain Boots
(view on Amazon)Danner Adrika Hiker Waterproof Boot
(view on Amazon)Danner Women's Inquire Waterproof Boot
(view on Amazon)Kodiak Low-Rider Original Ankle Boot
(view on Amazon)Kodiak Mahone Hiking Boot
(view on Amazon) -
Thursday Boot Co. Captain Boots (view on Amazon)
Thursday Boot Co. Rugged Captain Boots (view on Amazon)
Danner Men's Jag Waterproof Boot (view on Amazon)
Danner Men's Explorer 650 Hiking Boot (view on Amazon)
Kodiak Berkley Ankle Boot (view on Amazon)
Kodiak Clayburn Ankle Boot (view on Amazon)
How to Dress for the Weather
Even if you’re getting married in the middle of summer, it’s always a good idea to be prepared for all kinds of weather! We always recommend bringing layers so you are prepared no matter what Mother Nature throws at us!
If You’re Wearing a Dress
If your elopement begins at sunrise, is above 10,000 feet, is outside of the summer season, or just happens to be on a cold day, it can sometimes be too chilly to wear your dress by itself. Because of this, we recommend bringing a jacket, shawl, or even blanket that you can wear while in photos. This will keep you warmer, but compliment your dress. We also recommend having a pair of leggings or fleece-lined tights to keep your legs warm.
No Matter What You’re Wearing
We never recommend coming to Colorado without a warm, waterproof jacket. These can save the day on windy mountainsides or during a sudden downpour. This jacket can also keep you warm while you hike and travel in between locations. A pair of gloves and warm socks for your hiking boots can also be lifesavers. If the forecast looks particularly cold on your wedding day, look into buying a few packs of hand warmers and/or some adhesive body warmers.
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Smartwool Merino 250 Base Layer Bottoms
(view on Amazon) (view on REI)Romastory Fleece Lined Thick Tights
(view on Amazon)Smartwool Women's Hike Full Cushion Crew Socks
(view on Amazon) (view on REI) -
Smartwool Merino 250 Base Layer Bottoms
(view on Amazon) (view on REI)Smartwool Merino 250 Crew Base Layer Top
(view on Amazon) (view on REI)Smartwool Men's Hike Full Cushion Crew Socks
(view on Amazon) (view on REI) -
HotHands Hand Warmers
(view on Amazon)HotHands Body Warmers
(view on Amazon)HotHands Insole Foot Warmers
(view on Amazon)Zippo HeatBank Rechargeable Hand Warmer
(view on Amazon) (view on REI)
Colorado Packing List
Colorado Adventure Elopement Packing List
When you choose to have an outdoor, adventure elopement, there are some unique items that you may want to make sure you bring! We’ve compiled this list based on a general adventure elopement in Colorado, but you may want to curate these items based on the activities you have planned for your elopement day. As always, be sure to read reviews and do your own research to find out if an item is right for you and your elopement!
Disclosure: Sometimes we use affiliate links in our elopement planning blog posts and as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. This does not cost you anything, but it helps support the creation of these free, informational blog posts. Thank you for your support!
Hiking Essentials
Hiking Backpack - A good backpack is essential for not only carrying your things (sometimes even your wedding attire), but also for keeping your back and shoulders from getting sore. If possible, we recommend trying on hiking backpacks in person because each brand will fit a little bit differently. Click here to read REI’s tips for choosing the right hiking backpack. A backpack can also act as a really great “prop” for your photos. We love photographing couples hiking with a bouquet sticking out and a “just eloped” sign hanging on their backpacks.
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Osprey Skimmer 20 Pack (view on Amazon)
Osprey Skimmer 28 Pack (view on Amazon)
Deuter Trail 28 Pack (view on Amazon)
Osprey Sirrus 36 Pack (view on Amazon)
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Osprey Talon 22 Pack (view on Amazon)
Deuter Trail 30 Pack (view on Amazon)
Osprey Stratos 36 Pack (view on Amazon)
Water Bottles + Reservoirs - You’ll want to be sure to pack enough water with you, particularly if it is warm out or if you plan to do any hiking. The amount needed will depend on the length of the hike as well as the time of year. We prefer water bottles over water reservoirs, but you can opt for either! Either way, be sure your water bottle will fit nicely in your backpack!
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Miir Water Bottle 16 fl. oz. (view on Amazon)
Hydro Flask 24 fl. oz. (view on Amazon)
Hydro Flask 32 fl. oz. (view on Amazon)
Hiking Boots - We see our couples wear a wide range of boots on their elopement days. When choosing your boots, be sure to choose some with good tread and break them in before your elopement day.
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Thursday Boot Co. Captain Boots (view on Amazon)
Danner Adrika Hiker Waterproof Boot (view on Amazon)
Danner Women's Inquire Waterproof Boot (view on Amazon)
Kodiak Low-Rider Original Ankle Boot (view on Amazon)
Kodiak Mahone Hiking Boot (view on Amazon)
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Thursday Boot Co. Captain Boots (view on Amazon)
Thursday Boot Co. Rugged Captain Boots (view on Amazon)
Danner Men's Jag Waterproof Boot (view on Amazon)
Danner Men's Explorer 650 Hiking Boot (view on Amazon)
Kodiak Berkley Ankle Boot (view on Amazon)
Kodiak Clayburn Ankle Boot (view on Amazon)
Headlamps - If your elopement plans have you hiking before sunrise or after sunset, then you’ll need a headlamp to light the way.
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Black Diamond Storm 400 Headlamp (view on Amazon)
Petzl Actik Core Headlamp (view on Amazon)
Trekking Poles - If the hike you are planning to do is particularly steep, rocky, snowy, of if you have weak knees (like Lisa), then we highly suggest trying out a pair of hiking poles. We love having lightweight poles that fold up to make them easier to travel with.
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Black Diamond FLZ Trekking Poles - Women's (view on Amazon)
Black Diamond Distance Z Trekking Poles (view on Amazon)
Safety Essentials - We always recommend being prepared for the unexpected, whether that is an injury or an unwanted run-in with an animal.
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Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight .5 (view on Amazon)
Adventure Medical Kits Hiker Medical Kit (view on Amazon)
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Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 (view on Amazon)
Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50 (view on Amazon)
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Light Fluid Face Sunscreen SPF 60 (view on Amazon)
EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen SPF 46 (view on Amazon)
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Counter Assault Bear Deterrent Spray 8.1 oz (view on Amazon)
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BOOST OXYGEN 10 Liters (view on Amazon)
BOOST OXYGEN 3 Liters (view on Amazon)
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HotHands Hand Warmers (view on Amazon)
HotHands Body Warmers (view on Amazon)
HotHands Insole Foot Warmers (view on Amazon)
Zippo HeatBank Rechargeable Hand Warmer (view on Amazon)
How Much Does A Colorado Elopement Cost?
The Average Cost of a Colorado Wedding
According to The Knot, in 2022, the average wedding cost in the United States was $30,000. There are a lot of variables that go into the average cost of a Colorado wedding. What venue did the couple choose? How many guests did they have? What vendors did they hire? How much did they spend on attire? And what was their overall vision for the day? It is very easy for that $30,000 to grow to a 6 figure expense!
Many of our couples tell us that they decided to elope after starting to plan a traditional wedding. They quickly found themselves feeling overwhelmed with decisions, high costs, and the opinions of their families and friends. Maybe this is similar to your own elopement journey, or maybe you always knew that an elopement was the right decision for you!
The beauty of an elopement is that you get to make the rules! The traditional idea of an elopement being just two people running off and not telling anyone is changing. Maybe you want the day to be just you and your partner, or maybe you can’t imagine getting married without your immediate family present. Maybe you want to have your ceremony at sunrise, or maybe you want to hike to a gorgeous alpine lake.
The Average Cost of a Colorado Elopement
Eloping is a great way to save thousands of dollars on your wedding, prioritize quality time with your partner and guests, ignore the outside pressures of what your wedding should be, avoid compromise, and have a day that is stress-free and memorable.
Like with a traditional wedding, there are a lot of variables that go into the average cost of a Colorado elopement. When you’re planning your elopement, you get to prioritize what you spend your money on. For most of our couples, they prioritize the documentation of their elopement with photography and videography. They also prioritize location. Sometimes this means that they spend money on their location (whether this is a ceremony site or a great place to stay), sometimes this means they spend time and effort getting to their location (often gorgeous hikes and views are super affordable). They also prioritize their wedding attire. When you aren’t spending $10,000+ on a caterer, you can often afford to spend more money on your dream wedding attire.
We put together two elopement cost breakdowns based on guest count. Know that your choice in location, time of year, and other preferences may affect the cost of your Colorado elopement. Some categories, such as wedding attire, accommodation, and meals can be easily adjusted to fit your budget!
"We eloped because we wanted only the people who we couldn't see not being at our wedding there - only our closest friends and family were invited. We wanted to celebrate with only those who had made an impact on us individually or as a couple. We had a smaller budget and could stretch it more if we invited fewer people."
Cost of a Budget Colorado Elopement with 0 Guests
Ceremony Site = $0 - $300+ permit (on average)
Florals = $50 DIY bouquet
Wedding Attire = $1,000 (check out our blog post on how to save money on a wedding dress)
Hair + Makeup = $0 DIY your own
Nice Accommodation = $300/night (we’re estimating 2 nights)
Officiant = $0 if you choose to self-solemnize
Marriage License = $35
Picnic Setup = $50 (takeout sandwiches + an affordable bottle of champagne)
Professional Photography, Videography, and Planning = Price will vary
Starting around $1,735 - $2,035
(Not including Photography, Videography, or Planning)
Cost of an Average Colorado Elopement with 0 Guests
Ceremony Site = $0 - $300+ permit (on average)
Florals = $450 for a professional bouquet and boutonniere
Wedding Attire = $3,000
Hair + Makeup = $400 - $500 (this doesn’t include possible travel fees)
Nice Accommodation = $300/night (we’re estimating 2 nights)
Officiant = $0 if you choose to self-solemnize
Marriage License = $35
Nice Picnic Setup = $200 (professional charcuterie board, a bottle of champagne)
Small Cake or Cupcakes = $50
Professional Photography, Videography, and Planning = Price will vary
Starting around $4,735 - $5,135
(Not including Photography, Videography, or Planning)
Cost of a Budget Colorado Elopement with 10 Guests
Ceremony Site = $300 - $1,500+ permit (on average)
Florals = $50 DIY bouquet
Wedding Attire = $1,000 (check out our blog post on how to save money on a wedding dress)
Hair + Makeup = $0 DIY your own
Nice Accommodation + = $300/night (we’re estimating 2 nights, guests pay for their own)
Officiant = $0 if you choose to have a guest perform the ceremony
Marriage License = $35
Dinner at a Restaurant = $65/person (12 people total)
Professional Photography, Videography, and Planning = Price will vary
Starting around $2,765 - $3,965
(Not including Photography, Videography, or Planning)
Cost of an Average Colorado Elopement with 10 Guests
Ceremony Site = $300 - $5,000+ permit (on average)
Florals = $500 - $800 for a professional bouquet, 3 boutonnieres, 2 corsages (for guests)
Wedding Attire = $3,000
Hair + Makeup = $900 - $1,200 (3 people getting hair + makeup done, this doesn’t include possible travel fees)
Nice Accommodation/Reception Location = $1,500/night (accommodation doubles as a reception space, we’re estimating 3 nights)
Officiant = $0 if you choose to have a guest perform the ceremony
Marriage License = $35
Furniture Rentals = $350 (tables + chairs for reception)
Private Chef to Cater = $80/person (12 people total, this doesn’t include possible travel fees)
Cake = $250 for a professional wedding cake
Professional Photography, Videography, and Planning = Price will vary
Starting around $11,905 - $16,095
(Not including Photography, Videography, or Planning)
How to Avoid Altitude Sickness
Elevation Sickness is something that can affect anyone traveling to Colorado, no matter how athletic you are. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to prevent getting altitude sickness.
If possible, we recommend that you and your guests arrive in Colorado a few days before the wedding day. Spend 1-2 days in Denver and then spend 1-2 days up in the mountains. That will help your body acclimate to the elevation. We recommend taking these days slow.
Drink LOTS of water!
Pack snacks, particularly healthy snacks that are sources of carbs. Whole grains are great!
Avoid or limit alcohol, it is known to worsen the symptoms of elevation sickness. You will also get drunk faster at elevation.
Before coming to Colorado, consider talking to your doctor about Diamox to help prevent altitude sickness. Just note that it is a diuretic.
Buy bottled oxygen from a sporting goods store. It might sound silly, but it does help!
Watch for the Symptoms of Altitude Sickness:
Headache, Dizziness, Shortness of Breath, Feeling Tired, Nausea and Vomiting, Faster Heart Rate, Difficulty Sleeping, Loss of Appetite, and Overall Not Feeling Well
Let’s Get Started With Your Colorado Elopement!
So have you packed your bags for Colorado yet?
Many people will tell you that wedding planning is stressful, but we’re here to say that elopement planning doesn’t have to be. Every couple deserves a fun, stress-free wedding experience, and that is what we aim to provide to each of our couples! We will walk you through each step of the planning process and share all of our expertise and hidden gem locations with you!
We captured our first elopement in 2015, and we haven’t looked back since. Over 230 weddings later, we’ve perfected the art of providing you with an incredible experience in addition to your photos + videos.
Elopement Planning
All of our packages include our in-depth and personalized elopement planning help:
• Collaborative Planning Portal + App
• 100-Page Elopement Planning Guide
• Planning To-Do List
• Location Recommendations
• Custom Map with our Favorite Locations
• Vendor Recommendations + Permit Help
• Non-Traditional Ceremony Ideas
• Practical Elopement Information
Colorado Elopement Packages
We offer both elopement photography and elopement videography packages.
Elopement Photography
Lisa + Alex as your Team
Online Photo Gallery + Print Rights
Handcrafted Wedding Album
100-Page Elopement Planning Guide
Personalized Elopement Planning Portal
Personalized Payment Plans Available
Elopement Photo + Video
Lisa + Alex as your Team
Online Photo Gallery + Print Rights
Highlight Film
Drone Use (Weather + Location Permitting)
Handcrafted Wedding Album
100-Page Elopement Planning Guide
Personalized Elopement Planning Portal
Personalized Payment Plans Available
Check Out Some More Colorado Elopements
Are you ready to start your Colorado elopement adventure?
We’re Lisa + Alex (those goofballs in the photo above). We are local Colorado elopement photographers and videographers who are passionate about giving our couples the most incredible wedding day possible. We work closely with each of our couples to offer location options, vendor recommendations, and fun ideas to personalize their wedding day.
Each couple who books with us will receive their own, collaborative Elopement Planning Portal. We know that planning your elopement can seem overwhelming, but we’re here to make the planning process easy and fun.
Breckenridge, Colorado Elopement Photo + Video