Ouray Alpine Lake and Jeep Elopement
Colorado Elopement Photographer
Colorado Elopement Details
Package:
Colorado Elopement Photography
8 Hours of Coverage
Having 8 hours to explore allowed H + K to explore many locations in the region with their dog. They had their first look at a bright green alpine lake, explored waterfalls and mountaintops, and had their ceremony at sunset.
Elopement without Guests:
H + K eloped without any guests. This allowed them to spend the entire day fully immersed in each other and their surroundings.
Location:
Ouray, Colorado - Learn more about eloping in the San Juan Mountains
Land Acknowledgement:
This elopement took place on the traditional territory of the Núu-agha-tuvu-pu (Ute), Diné Bikéyah, and Pueblo nations.
An off-road Jeep trail and a first look next to a blue alpine lake
K and H 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 K’s soul dog Bagel who passed away earlier this year).
For their elopement day, K and H 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, K visited Ouray, but this would be H’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 H 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. K and H both changed into their wedding attire and had their first look down at the edge of the lake.
A picnic in the forest and a waterfall adventure with wildflowers
Next, it was time for the most picturesque picnic next to the lake. K and H set up a beautiful charcuterie board complete with cheese, meats, their favorite snacks, wedding-themed dog treats for Blu, 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.
They spent the rest of the afternoon exploring another blue alpine lake, this one with grand views of the surrounding mountains, then they hiked down to a waterfall that was surrounded by wildflowers.
A mountaintop golden hour elopement ceremony and blue hour in the wildflowers
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. They self solemnized their marriage with Blu by their side and then snuggled up on a rock together to look out at the mountaintop views surrounding them.
As the sun set, K and H celebrated with champagne and their first dance surrounded by some of the most impressive wildflowers we’ve ever seen. Once the sun had officially set, we brought out our lanterns and watched as the last bit of light disappeared from the surrounding mountains.
We specialize in Colorado elopement photo + video
Let’s work together to make your Colorado elopement dreams come to life!
We have been doing this for over 10 years and have captured over 275 elopements. We are so lucky to work with about 20 couples each year and show them some of our favorite places in Colorado.
Are you looking for a meaningful and adventurous day in the Colorado Rocky Mountains? We would love to get to know you!
Check out some more elopements
Ouray, Colorado Elopement Photography + Highlight Film