If you’re wondering where to elope in Colorado, this guide is here to help you dream big and plan with your hearts wide open! From alpine lakes and dramatic peaks to quiet meadows and red rock canyons, Colorado is full of places that feel like they were made for a day this personal.

In this carefully crafted guide, you’ll find ten incredible locations, plus expert tips, seasonal advice, and a practical elopement packing list to help you create something that feels true to you. Let’s get into it!

1. Maroon Bells Amphitheater: Where to Elope in Colorado Surrounded by Iconic Peaks

This is one of the most iconic spots in Colorado, and honestly, it lives up to the hype. If you’ve seen a photo of Colorado in fall with fiery aspen trees, sharp mountain peaks, and a lake that looks like a mirror, this is probably it. Maroon Bells is stunning, full stop.

The main ceremony site here is the Maroon Bells Amphitheater, tucked right between the peaks and the lake. You’ll need to book this through Recreation.gov, and availability goes fast! You can learn all about how to book the Maroon Bells Amphitheater here!

What makes this place special is how the whole area feels like it’s been preserved just for you. The walk from the parking area to the lake is short with a slight incline, which means you can wear your actual wedding shoes and not regret it. But if you want to add in a pre- or post-vow hike, you absolutely can. There are also wide-open spots nearby for post-ceremony photos, quiet moments, or even a simple picnic if you want to stretch the experience out before heading back into town.

It’s not just the views that make this place magical. It’s the feeling of standing in a place so still and enormous that your words feel like they echo back to you with more weight. Maroon Bells doesn’t just look good in pictures. It feels good in real life. When couples are choosing where to elope in Colorado, it’s no wonder this location is at the top of their list!

Best Time to Elope: Late June to early October. Snow sticks around into June most years, and access is limited during mud season from late April through May.

Local Tip: The shuttle system into the area runs daily in summer and fall and is required for most of the day. When you reserve the Maroon Bells Amphitheater, you are given five parking passes, however, your guests can use the shuttle!

Bring: Layers. Even if it’s 75 degrees in Aspen, it’ll be chilly at higher elevations. Also bring comfortable shoes, water, and snacks.

2. Rocky Mountain National Park: Where to Elope in Colorado Amid Rugged Majesty

If you want big mountains, glacier-carved lakes, and a variety of terrain without having to backpack into the wilderness, Rocky Mountain National Park is a solid pick. There are thirteen designated ceremony sites within the park, and each has its own personality. Some are forested and intimate, while others open up to wide alpine meadows or crystal-clear lakes.

What makes RMNP unique is how accessible it is for elopements of all types, whether it’s just the two of you and an officiant, or a group of 15+ guests (depending on your ceremony site). You do need a permit for any kind of ceremony, and spots are limited each day, especially in summer. The park is also very protective of its spaces. No chairs, arches, or amplified sound are allowed, which honestly adds to the wild, stripped-back feel. Learn more about how to elope at Rocky Mountain National Park here!

3M Curve, Sprague Lake, and Hidden Valley are favorites for a reason. They’re easy to reach, offer incredible views, and are photogenic in every season. Just keep in mind, you’re at high elevation above 8,000 feet, and the weather can change quickly.

There’s also Trail Ridge Road, a seasonal scenic drive that climbs above 12,000 feet and delivers some of the most surreal, windswept views in the state. It’s only open for part of the year, but if you catch it while it’s clear, it’s well worth building into your day!

Best Time to Elope: Year round. Trail Ridge Road typically opens around Memorial Day and closes mid-October. Fall colors peak late September and wildflowers bloom mid July. Snow can come as early as October 1.

Local Tip: Do a sunrise vow exchange at Sprague Lake and then grab coffee and breakfast in Estes Park. If you’re game for a short hike, Dream Lake and Emerald Lake are absolutely worth the walk. Just start early, before the crowds show up.

Bring: Extra socks, water, and something salty. Altitude headaches are real. Also bring your RMNP wedding permit and know the time limits of your ceremony spot.

3. Loveland Pass: Where to Elope in Colorado with Sky-High Drama and Rugged Beauty

Loveland Pass is one of those places that makes your jaw drop before you even put the car in park. Topping out at nearly 12,000 feet, it’s a high-alpine playground of jagged peaks, wild winds, and 360-degree views that make you feel like you’re standing at the edge of the world.

There’s no gondola, no ski village, no fancy après scene, just raw, wild Colorado in all its glory. And that’s the appeal. You can pull off the highway and walk just a few steps to get incredible photos, or hike one of the nearby ridgelines for a little more solitude and perspective. When couples are choosing where to elope in Colorado, it’s no wonder this location is at the top of their list!

You can do your vows right at the pass, with views that stretch toward Arapahoe Basin and the surrounding peaks, or take a short hike along the Pass Lake trail for a little more privacy. In summer, wildflowers dot the tundra. In fall, the light gets soft and golden. Check out this blog post about how to elope at Loveland Pass!

Best Time to Elope: Late June through October. Snow lingers into June, and the pass can close in early winter due to storms. Summer offers the easiest access, but fall has that quiet, golden magic.

Local Tip: Plan for a weekday sunrise or sunset to avoid crowds and catch the best light. This is a very popular stop for tourists and photographers, so aim off-peak for a more intimate vibe. And remember, there are no bathrooms or facilities, so come prepared.

Bring: Layers, water, wind protection, and a printed map in case cell service drops out. Bonus points for bringing a thermos of coffee or hot cocoa (or some whiskey) to warm up after you say your vows on the summit!

4. San Juan Mountains (Telluride, Ouray, Silverton): Where to Elope in Colorado for The Ultimate Adventure

If Colorado had a crown jewel of rugged romance, it’d be the San Juans. These mountains are steeper, more jagged, and more colorful than most other ranges in the state. And the towns tucked into their valleys? Equal parts charming and gritty.

Telluride is home to Bridal Veil Falls, the state’s tallest free-falling waterfall. There’s a trail that leads up the falls and a Jeep road that gives you even higher access to alpine lakes and peaks. Ouray is like a tiny Swiss village, complete with hot springs and a via ferrata if you’re feeling spicy. Silverton feels like a mining ghost town and has backdrops that could convince anyone to grow a beard and live off the grid.

You’ll want a local photographer or guide to help you access the best spots. Many of the trails are unmarked or require high-clearance vehicles and experience. If you’re eloping here, you’re signing up for real adventure. That also means you need to plan ahead, pack smart, and know your own limits with elevation and distance.

What you get in return is total privacy and out-of-this-world scenery. Fields of wildflowers in July, golden aspens in September, and maybe even a mountain goat as your witness. These locations aren’t just pretty. They’re legendary!

Best Time to Elope: July through early October. Wildflowers peak in late July. Roads stay snow-covered well into June. Some passes may not open until July.

Local Tip: You can rent Jeeps in Silverton or Ouray for a DIY alpine lake mission. Or splurge on a guided off-road elopement and let someone else handle the hairpin switchbacks while you relax and enjoy the ride. If you’re not into 4×4, stick to accessible trails like Ice Lakes or Blue Lakes Basin.

Bring: Dramamine if you get carsick. These roads are no joke. Also hiking boots, headlamps, plenty of snacks, and printed directions in case you lose cell service.

5. Crested Butte: Where to Elope in Colorado with Wildflower Fields and Autumn Glory

Crested Butte is small, scenic, and outrageously colorful when the seasons hit right. It’s known as Colorado’s wildflower capital, and that title’s earned. Lupine, columbine, fireweed, and more blanket the hills in early summer, while fall brings neon-yellow aspens as far as the eye can see.

The town itself is quiet but full of personality. It’s mine and Jake’s favorite mountain town! There are cozy spots to stay, great food, and trail access that’s hard to beat. Whether you want to hike into a meadow, drive up a mountain pass, or wander into a golden aspen grove, Crested Butte delivers.

Mount Crested Butte, Kebler Pass, and Washington Gulch are all local favorites. The views are sweeping, and the trails are mellow enough to wear something nicer than hiking gear if you want to. You don’t need to be a pro hiker to access incredible spots, and even the roadside pull-offs are breathtaking. When couples are choosing where to elope in Colorado, it’s no wonder this location is at the top of their list!

Best Time to Elope: July for wildflowers, late September to early October for fall colors. Spring is muddy and winter is snowy but beautiful if you want a ski elopement!

Local Tip: Skip the crowded festival weekends unless you want a parade of mountain bikers clapping during your vows. Go midweek, early in the morning, and you’ll likely have entire valleys to yourselves.

Bring: Bug spray, layers, water, and a celebratory meal planned. The Wildflower Festival is fun, but a private meadow with lunch and your person is better.

6. Summit County (Breckenridge, Dillon, Frisco): Where to Elope in Colorado with Ski-Town Charm

Summit County is one of the most accessible, versatile, and downright fun places to elope in Colorado! It includes towns like Breckenridge, Frisco, and Dillon, and it strikes the sweet spot between stunning natural beauty and charming small-town convenience with a quick drive from DIA. If you want mountain views without a long drive into the wilderness, or you like the idea of ending your elopement day with a local craft beer and live music, Summit County delivers!

You’ve got plenty of ceremony options here. Sapphire Point is a well-loved favorite, a scenic overlook above Lake Dillon that’s just a short walk from the parking lot. It’s popular, so permits are required, but it gives you classic lake-and-mountain views with relatively little effort. Breckenridge Ski Resort offers mountaintop ceremony options via gondola, and Frisco’s marina area is great for lakeside vows with sailboats gliding in the background.

What sets Summit County apart is the mix of ease and beauty. You can elope in hiking boots or heels, depending on your vibe. Stay in a cozy cabin or book a high-end lodge. Go kayaking after your ceremony or ride a gondola to brunch. There’s something here for nearly every style of elopement!

Best Time to Elope: Year-round. Winter brings snowy magic and skiing, summer and fall bring wildflowers, sunshine, and golden aspen leaves.

Local Tip: If you’re eloping at Sapphire Point, book early and go for a sunrise or weekday slot to avoid the tourist rush. For winter elopements, check the snowpack and consider hiring a local planner who knows how to handle unpredictable conditions.

Bring: Water, layers, a blanket or wrap for photos, and your sense of adventure. And maybe your swimsuit if you want to cap the day with a hot tub soak.

7. Garden of the Gods: Where to Elope in Colorado with Front-Range Views and Red Rock Drama

If you want to stay closer to the Front Range but still have a dramatic backdrop, Garden of the Gods is a gem. Located right in Colorado Springs, it’s famous for its towering red rock formations, dramatic spires, and easy accessibility. And the best part? It’s free to use for elopements! No permits. No entrance fees. Just show up, be respectful, and soak in the scenery.

There are designated ceremony spots for weddings here, and you can learn all about that here. Sunrise and early mornings are best for privacy and soft light. By late morning and afternoon, the park fills up quickly with visitors, hikers, and photographers.

Don’t let the location fool you. Even though you’re technically in town, Garden of the Gods can feel surprisingly wild, especially when you find a quiet trail or overlook away from the main loop. Bonus points if you follow your ceremony with a picnic or celebration in one of the park’s meadow areas, or venture into nearby Manitou Springs for a post-elopement bite and some quirky small-town charm!

Best Time to Elope: Year-round, though summer and early fall are the most popular. Sunrise is your best bet for privacy.

Local Tip: Avoid weekends and holidays unless you’re okay with bystanders watching. Bring comfy shoes and keep your ceremony simple and mobile so you can pivot to a quieter spot if needed.

Bring: Water, sunscreen, a sun hat, and maybe an umbrella for shade. Colorado sun is no joke, even in spring or fall.

8. Steamboat Springs: Where to Elope in Colorado with Laid-Back Charm and Hot Springs

Steamboat Springs flies under the radar compared to some of Colorado’s bigger-name towns, which makes it a total win if you’re looking for fewer crowds and that low-key mountain-town charm. The area offers alpine lakes, open meadows, aspen groves, and natural hot springs. That’s a pretty solid elopement checklist!

Fish Creek Falls is a local favorite, a powerful waterfall that’s easy to reach and ridiculously photogenic. Strawberry Park Hot Springs is another gem. Picture yourself saying vows near a creek in the woods, then soaking under the stars afterwards. The town itself has great food, friendly locals, and all the gear shops and coffee stops you’ll need to fuel your day.

The surrounding Routt National Forest is full of hidden spots if you want something totally off the beaten path. Hire a local guide or photographer who knows the area and can help you find a trail, overlook, or meadow where you can be completely alone with the views.

Best Time to Elope: June through October for mountain access, December through March for snow-covered winter magic. Steamboat gets some of the best powder in the state!

Local Tip: Book hot springs visits in advance and consider staying overnight at one of the cabins if you want a rustic, off-grid experience post-ceremony. They’re lit by lantern and candlelight and make the whole day feel like a storybook.

Bring: Swimsuits, towels, water shoes, and your comfiest post-vow clothes. And don’t forget snacks for the hike or a thermos of something warm if you’re going for a winter ceremony.

9. Leadville and Buena Vista: Where to Elope in Colorado with High Peaks and Laid-Back Vibes

If you’re looking for a mix of alpine drama and quiet lakeside beauty, the area around Leadville and Buena Vista is a fantastic pick. These towns are small, unpretentious, and surrounded by massive mountains. Leadville sits at over 10,000 feet and is the highest incorporated city in the U.S. Buena Vista is known for its river access, chill vibe, and access to Cottonwood Pass.

You’ve got so many elopement location options here! Say your vows near Twin Lakes with the Collegiate Peaks reflected in the water. Hike or drive up Cottonwood Pass for a 12,000-foot backdrop. Stroll along the Arkansas River and find a quiet overlook just off the river trail.

It’s not polished or high-end, and that’s the charm. You get big views and beautiful spaces without the crowds or hype. After your ceremony, soak in Mount Princeton Hot Springs or head into town for coffee and tacos. This is Colorado at its most relaxed.

Best Time to Elope: June through early October. Cottonwood Pass typically opens in June depending on snow. Fall color is beautiful in late September.

Local Tip: Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer. Plan for a morning or early afternoon ceremony and build in time for a nap, soak, or meal before evening plans.

Bring: Water, snacks, a warm layer even in summer, and maybe a bottle of champagne to pop lakeside.

10. Brainard Lake Recreation Area: Where to Elope in Colorado with Alpine Lakes and Quiet Forest

If you want alpine lakes, snow-capped peaks, and that high-elevation feeling without a long drive into the backcountry, Brainard Lake is a great option. Tucked into the Indian Peaks Wilderness just outside of Boulder and Nederland, it’s a local favorite for good reason. And even though it’s more accessible than some high-country spots, it still feels like you’re way out there.

The main lake is easy to reach with just a short walk from the parking lot. You’ll get huge views of the Continental Divide, a bright blue lake, and often, wildlife wandering nearby. Elk, moose, and marmots are frequent guests. If you want to go a little further, hikes to Long Lake or Lake Isabelle give you even more seclusion. When couples are choosing where to elope in Colorado, it’s no wonder this location is at the top of their list!

The road to this area is only open seasonally, usually from late June through mid-October, depending on snow.

Best Time to Elope: Late June through mid-October. July and August have the best trail access and wildflowers. September brings golden tones and cool air.

Local Tip: It gets chilly fast up here, even on sunny days. Plan to arrive early, pack your layers, and bring extra water since you’re over 10,000 feet.

Bring: Good shoes, bear spray, permit paperwork, and a warm blanket for post-vow coziness.

Seasons in Colorado: When to Elope and What Each Month Really Feels Like

Timing your elopement isn’t just about picking a pretty month, it’s about understanding what Colorado actually feels like during different times of the year. Here’s the real scoop on what each season offers, what to expect weather-wise, and why one couple’s perfect timing might be another’s muddy misadventure!

Spring (Late April to Early June)

Spring in Colorado is a mixed bag. At lower elevations like Garden of the Gods or Steamboat Springs, wildflowers and green fields start to show up by May. But up high, we’re talking Maroon Bells, Brainard Lake, or Loveland Pass, trails are often still snow-covered or just barely thawing out. Access can be limited.

The good news? You’ll avoid the tourist crush, enjoy mild temperatures, and catch that fresh, hopeful vibe of a landscape waking up. Snowmelt feeds waterfalls, the air smells like pine and promise, and everything feels crisp and new. But pack layers and waterproof shoes. Mud and surprise snow are very much still in play.

Summer (Mid-June to August)

This is peak season, and for good reason. Trailheads are open, wildflowers go wild, lakes reflect like mirrors, and the weather, apart from those feisty afternoon thunderstorms, is often perfect. You’ll get the widest access to Colorado’s most beautiful places during summer.

Just know that everyone else knows it too. Popular spots like Maroon Bells, Rocky Mountain National Park, and Summit County fill up fast. You’ll want to book permits early and aim for weekdays or sunrise ceremonies to find a little more solitude. Also, bring a rain jacket. Storms love a dramatic 3 p.m. entrance.

Fall (September to Mid-October)

Fall in Colorado is a fleeting masterpiece. For a few precious weeks, the aspen groves turn brilliant gold, the air cools, and the bugs leave. The light gets softer, the trails get quieter, and everything feels a little more still.

If you can time it right, early fall is one of the most photogenic and romantic times to elope here. But be warned, weather can turn fast at higher elevations. A trail that’s dry one day might be dusted with snow the next. Always bring a warm layer and a backup plan.

Winter (Late October to April)

If snowy backdrops and cozy post-ceremony fires sound dreamy, winter might be for you. Colorado transforms into a wonderland. Snowy peaks, frozen lakes, and ski-town charm create a totally different kind of elopement experience.

You’ll need to be flexible, as storms, road closures, and snow-packed trails can all change plans on a dime. But with the right gear (and maybe snowshoes), you can have an elopement that feels like a private alpine fairy tale. Bonus: hot springs are even better when it’s snowing.

Quick-Glance Seasonal Cheat Sheet:

• April–May:
  Still snowy in most mountain areas. Lower elevations begin to green. Mud season in between.
• June:
  Best mix of accessibility and quiet. Wildflowers begin. Roads open. Still cool at elevation.
• July–August:
  Wildflowers explode. Warm days, unpredictable afternoons. High traffic. Start early.
• September:
  Aspen trees pop with color. Fewer crowds. Cool mornings, perfect light.
• October:
  Fall winding down. Early snow possible. Great for rustic, moody elopements.
• November–March:
  Winter wonderland. Quiet, magical, logistically trickier. Great for snow lovers.

Expert Tips for Planning Your Colorado Elopement

You’ve picked where to elope in Colorado, now let’s talk logistics! These aren’t the sexy parts of planning, but they’re the reason your day will feel effortless instead of chaotic. Whether you’re hiking in your wedding attire, saying vows at sunrise, or snowshoeing to your ceremony spot, these tips will help you stay sane, safe, and grounded in the moment.

Permits and Reservations

Do not skip this step. Seriously! Every public land agency in Colorado has its own rules, and many places limit where and how you can hold a ceremony. Some require permits just for photography. Others have specific group size limits or blackout dates for events.

Places like Rocky Mountain National Park have very clear permitting processes. Other areas, like National Forests or State Parks, can be a bit more patchwork. Always check with the managing agency and start early. Some permits take weeks or even months to process, some places do not require permits at all.

Local planners or experienced elopement photographers (hey, that’s me!) are gold here. Many already know the rules for specific spots and can help you avoid fines or last-minute cancellations.

Prepare for Altitude

Altitude is no joke in Colorado. If you’re coming from sea level, give yourself a day or two to acclimate before heading above 10,000 feet. Even fit, healthy people can get hit with nausea, headaches, or fatigue. Hydration helps. So does taking it easy the day before and skipping alcohol until after your vows.

If you’re eloping at high elevation, places like Maroon Bells, Loveland Pass, or Brainard Lake, keep snacks on hand, pace yourself, and be gentle with your body. It’s supposed to be joyful, not punishing!

Dodge the Crowds

Deciding where to elope in Colorado to avoid the crowds matters! If you’re not into sharing your vows with hikers, tourists, or selfie sticks, you’ll want to plan carefully. Sunrise is your best friend. So are weekdays, especially Tuesday through Thursday.

Peak locations like Sprague Lake or Sapphire Point are incredible but popular. If solitude is important to you, consider less-visited alternatives or have a primary and backup location just in case. Many trailheads have several scenic offshoots nearby.

Also, pay attention to local event calendars. Mountain towns love their festivals, races, and parades. Nothing says mood killer like trying to find parking next to a BBQ cook-off and 5K race.

Work With People Who Know the Terrain

This goes for photographers (hey, that’s me!), planners, officiants, and even hair and makeup artists. The mountain environment is different from other wedding destinations. You want vendors who know how to handle unpredictable weather, remote logistics, and dusty trails without blinking.

A good Colorado elopement photographer will know how to read the light at 11,000 feet. A local planner will already have the permit links saved and know which roads get gnarly after a rainstorm. Trust me, we will make your day smoother, easier, and way less stressful!

Have a Backup Plan

Weather can change fast in the mountains. A bluebird morning can turn into hail, lightning, or snow by the afternoon. Always have a Plan B. That might mean choosing a lower-elevation alternate location, packing rain gear, or shifting the timeline to get ahead of a storm.

Even if you don’t end up using it, just knowing there’s a backup takes pressure off the day. Flexibility is freedom. Go in with a plan, but don’t white-knuckle it. Some of the best photos come from the unexpected moments anyway. Don’t worry, I provide a “Plan B” with every timeline!

Know the Leave No Trace Basics

You’re getting married in a place that existed long before your ceremony and should be just as beautiful when you leave. Stick to marked trails, pack out all trash, and don’t bring confetti or flower petals unless they’re biodegradable (and even then, check if they’re allowed).

Want something extra special for your ceremony? Try a reusable vow book, a wool blanket to sit on, or a handfasting ribbon. They add visual detail without leaving anything behind. Learn more about Leave No Trace here.

What to Pack for Your Colorado Elopement Adventure After You Decide Where to Elope in Colorado

You don’t need a lot of stuff to elope in Colorado, but what you bring matters. This isn’t your standard wedding checklist with seating charts and ballroom decor. This is the smart, weather-aware, terrain-ready list that helps you stay comfortable, prepared, and fully present on your day. Most of these items are lightweight, practical, and easy to toss in a pack. A few are deeply personal. All of them make a difference.

Layers, Layers, Layers

Colorado weather is a rollercoaster. You can start your day in the sun and end it in sleet, even in July. Bring:

• A base layer like a breathable tee or tank
• A mid-layer such as a fleece, flannel, or light sweater
• An outer shell that blocks wind and repels water

If you’re hiking to your spot, wear your warm layers on the way in and strip down for photos. Bonus points for a wrap or shawl that looks great in pictures but also keeps you from freezing.

Footwear That Works

If you’re walking more than five feet on dirt or rock, choose shoes that grip. Trail runners, hiking boots, or waterproof boots are all solid choices. If you have a dress or suit that hides your feet, who cares what the shoes look like? Prioritize comfort and stability.

You can bring backup shoes for photos if you want something more formal. Just make sure you can change into them quickly without balancing on a rock.

Elopement Outfit Hacks

You don’t need a bridal emergency kit, but it helps to have:

• Safety pins or fashion tape for dress adjustments
• Extra bobby pins or hair ties
• A small towel to clean off wet shoes or muddy hems
• Foldable flats or sandals for the hike out
• A portable mirror or compact for touch-ups

Some couples carry their outfits in garment bags and change at the location. Others hike in their wedding clothes. There’s no wrong way to do it, as long as you’re comfortable.

Water and Snacks

Do not underestimate how fast you’ll get dehydrated at elevation. Bring more water than you think you need. A reusable bottle or hydration pack works best. For snacks, keep it light and energy-rich:

• Trail mix or dried fruit
• Protein bars
• A small sandwich or wrap
• Electrolyte drink mix packets

You don’t want to get hangry right before your vows. Fuel up.

Printed Permit and Location Info

If your ceremony spot requires a permit, bring a printed copy with you. Cell service is spotty in many locations, and it’s helpful to have something physical to show rangers or land managers if needed.

Also print trail maps or directions. GPS apps like Gaia or AllTrails can be helpful, but don’t rely on them as your only source.

First Aid Basics

You’re not going on a wilderness expedition, but it still helps to have:

• Blister pads or Band-Aids
• Ibuprofen or Tylenol
• Antiseptic wipes
• Tweezers
• Bug spray
• Sunscreen
• Hand sanitizer

Even minor scrapes or headaches can throw you off, so pack a tiny kit and toss it in your backpack.

Something Personal

This is the part that turns your elopement from an epic hike into a real ceremony. A few ideas that are practical, meaningful, or just plain fun:

• Vow books or printed vows
• Champagne or sparkling water
• A blanket for sitting, snuggling, or photos
• A small Bluetooth speaker for your first dance
• A letter box or time capsule you can open on an anniversary
• A small bouquet or boutonnière

Keep it simple, but make it feel like you. That’s the whole point of eloping in the first place!

Leave No Trace Gear

If you bring it in, pack it out. If your ceremony involves props or decor, make sure nothing gets left behind. This includes:

• Trash bag or stuff sack for wrappers and tissues
• A brush or towel to clean dirt off clothes or shoes before heading back to the car
• No real candles, balloons, or anything plastic

Colorado’s wilderness is incredible because people take care of it. You’re a part of that now! Woohoo!

What to Do the Day Of (and After)

You’ve got the permits. You’ve packed the gear. You know where you’re going and what you’re wearing. Now let’s talk about how to actually move through your elopement day with presence, ease, and joy. This is where everything comes together. The landscape. The planning. The emotion. Here’s how to make the most of it!

Start Early

Whether your ceremony is at sunrise or not, getting an early start is your best move. Colorado mornings are quieter, cooler, and more private. Trailheads are empty, light is soft, and wildlife is more active. No rushing or dodging other visitors. You can breathe. You can take your time.

Even if your vows are planned for later in the day, starting the day early gives you space. Maybe it’s breakfast together before you separate to get ready. Maybe it’s a drive with your favorite music. However you do it, give yourself more time than you think you need.

Ease Into the Moment

Once you arrive at your location, pause. Take it in. Don’t rush into the ceremony just because you’re on a timeline. This is the beginning of something. Let yourself arrive emotionally, not just physically.

Take a deep breath. Look around. Hold hands. Walk around the area together. The slower you move through this part, the more real it feels. This is your wedding day, not a checklist!

Say the Words That Matter

When it’s time for your vows, speak honestly. You don’t have to write a novel or perform. You just have to show up and say the thing that brought you here. No audience. No pressure. Just the two of you and the open sky.

You can read vows from a notebook or speak from the heart. You can whisper or cry or laugh through the whole thing. There’s no wrong way to do this, as long as it’s yours. If you’re looking for inspiration for how to write your wedding vows, this blog might be helpful!

Where to Elope in Colorado to Celebrate With Intention

After the vows, celebrate in a way that feels natural. Pop some bubbly. Share a cupcake. Play your favorite song and dance on a rock ledge. Hike to a viewpoint. Soak your feet in a creek. The best part of eloping is that there are no rules. You can craft a celebration that fits your relationship.

Some couples bring a picnic. Some book a dinner reservation. Others just hold each other and watch the light change. Whatever you do, make space for joy.

Do Something After or Before That Feels Like You

You don’t have to rush into the next thing. This is your day, and it can keep unfolding however you want. Hike a little further. Check into a hot springs cabin. Go for a paddle on a lake. Take a hot air balloon ride. Head into town and eat something incredible. Lay on a blanket and look up at the stars.

Some of the best memories come from the small, unscripted moments after the big one. So give yourself room to wander.

Stay Out for Sunset or Stars

Colorado light is one of the best parts of the whole state. Sunset brings this glowing, honey-colored magic that makes every landscape feel like a painting. And once the sun is gone? If you’re lucky enough to be in a dark sky area like Brainard Lake or the San Juans, the stars will absolutely show off for you.

Bring a warm drink and a blanket if you just want to watch the stars come out together. Either way, don’t rush back to normal life too quickly!

Writing Your Own Story in the Colorado Wild

So you’ve been asking yourself where to elope in Colorado, and now you’ve got answers! But more than that, you’ve got a feeling and real places in mind. You’ve got seasons that spark something in you. You’ve got packing lists and trail maps, a thoughtful timeline and trail snacks, permit plans and post-vow celebration ideas. You’re not just planning a ceremony, you’re crafting an entire wedding experience.

This state is a patchwork of wild spaces and cozy corners. The two of you can say your vows in the golden light of a Maroon Bells sunrise or the quiet hush of a Brainard Lake alpine morning. You can hike past wildflowers in Crested Butte or watch the stars come out over the dunes above Loveland Pass. You can soak in hot springs, toast each other with beers in Buena Vista, or dance in the red rock shadow of Garden of the Gods.

Whether your day is private and quiet or full of laughter and music, it’s yours. That’s the beauty of eloping in Colorado. You don’t have to perform, there’s no need to impress anyone. You just have to show up and mean it.

So here’s your plan:

• Pick the place that makes your chest expand when you picture it.
• Choose the season that feels like it fits your rhythm.
• Pack the gear that keeps you comfortable.
• Hire people who get what you’re going for.
• Plan just enough so you can let go once you get there.
• And on the day of, let go and be present.

Colorado will take care of the rest. The wind will lift your hair. The sky will open up. The rocks, the rivers, the trails, the light, the quiet, they will hold you steady while you promise your lives to each other. No audience. No pressure. Just love, clarity, and the wide-open world.

Ready to plan your Colorado elopement for real?

Whether you already have a spot in mind or you’re still dreaming of where to elope in Colorado, I’m here to help you bring it to life. I photograph wildly meaningful elopements across Colorado and help couples craft experiences that feel like them: honest, beautiful, and unforgettable.

Let’s build your day together. Reach out, tell me your story, and let’s make this adventure official!