Ouray Alpine Lake and Jeep Elopement

Kelsey and Han met while interning at NASA and bonded over their shared love of dogs, the outdoors, and travel. After getting engaged at the top of Tongariro Crossing in New Zealand, they started exploring options for their wedding. After realizing how much stress is involved with planning a big wedding, they decided to elope in Colorado with just their dog, Blu in attendance, as well as their other two dogs in spirit (Burt stayed home because he doesn’t travel well and Kelsey’s soul dog Bagel who passed away earlier this year).

For their elopement day, Kelsey and Han envisioned the great outdoors, some fresh air, beautiful trees and mountains, and the quiet, serene feeling that it all brings. They wanted to hike and explore and maybe celebrate with a picnic and champagne. They chose to elope in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado, which is our favorite region in the entire state. Years ago, Kelsey visited Ouray, but this would be Han’s first time.

On the afternoon of their elopement, we started their adventure with a steep and bumpy drive up and off-road trail. The location they chose is a little bit more difficult to access and includes a water crossing as well as some areas that require careful tire placement. But Han was up for the challenge and Blu excitedly rode in the backseat and stuck his head out far enough to catch the splashing mud.

When we arrived at the first alpine lake, we all took a moment to look around. The lake was the most beautiful blue-green color and the hillside was lined with wildflowers. Kelsey and Han both changed into their wedding attire and had their first look down at the edge of the lake.

Next, it was time for the most picturesque picnic next to the lake. Kelsey and Han set up a beautiful charcuterie board complete with cheese, meats, their favorite snacks (Flamin’ Hot Cheetos for Han and Goldfish for Kelsey), wedding-themed dog treats for Blue, and even personal cake cups. As they ate, a storm rolled through and it suddenly started pouring rain. They quickly packed up the food and took shelter in the Jeep. But in true Colorado fashion, the storm didn’t last long and soon it was sunny and warm again.

Next, we headed to a second alpine lake, this one with grand views of the surrounding mountains. Then, finally, it was time for their ceremony. We drove higher into the mountains to a location with incredible views in all directions. We hiked out to the edge of the mountain and they exchanged their vows with no other people in sight.

As the sun set, Kelsey and Han celebrated with champagne and their first dance surrounded by some of the most impressive wildflowers we’ve ever seen. Once the sun has officially set, we brought out our lanterns and watched as the last bit of light disappeared from the surrounding mountains.