Whether you’re just starting to dream it up or deep in the planning process, this guide is here to help you figure out exactly how to bring your day to life in one of the most stunning, flexible, and laid-back places to get married. In this Colorado elopement guide, I’m breaking down everything you need to know: where to elope, when to go, how to get legally married, and how to make it all feel like you from start to finish.

If you’re someone who wants your wedding day to feel intentional, fun, and un-rushed—this guide is for you. Keep reading for real info, no fluff, and all the inspiration you need to plan a day you’ll actually want to relive again and again.

Table of Contents

• Eloping in Colorado: What You Need to Know About the State
• How to Travel Around Colorado
• Why Should You Elope in Colorado?
• FAQs About Eloping in Colorado
• Best Time of Year to Elope in Colorado
• Top 10 Colorado Elopement Locations
  • Crested Butte
  • Rocky Mountain National Park
  • Telluride & Ouray (San Juan Mountains)
  • Breckenridge
  • Great Sand Dunes National Park
  • Steamboat Springs
  • Aspen
  • Buena Vista
  • Indian Peaks Wilderness
  • Fort Collins & Lory State Park
• Colorado Elopement Legal Guide: Marriage Laws, Licenses, and Permits
• Where to Stay in Colorado
• Colorado Elopement Activities That Go Beyond the Vows
• Your Colorado Elopement Photographer
• Colorado Elopement Packages
• Final Tips for Eloping in Colorado

Eloping in Colorado: What You Need to Know About the State

If you’re planning a Colorado elopement and coming in from out of state—first of all, hell yeah. You’ve picked one of the most gorgeous, elopement-friendly places in the U.S. Colorado is located smack in the middle of the western half of the country, bordered by Wyoming, Utah, New Mexico, and a tiny bit of Oklahoma and Arizona. It’s known for its dramatic mountain ranges, cozy towns, and wild open spaces—and it’s ridiculously easy to elope here, both legally and logistically.

Whether you’re flying in with a few loved ones or road-tripping in for the week, Colorado offers something for every kind of elopement day—laid-back, luxurious, or somewhere in between.

Major Cities in Colorado:

Here’s a quick breakdown of Colorado’s major cities and what they’re near—super helpful when figuring out travel plans or choosing a home base.

Denver
Nearby landmarks: Red Rocks Amphitheater, Mount Evans Scenic Byway, Rocky Mountain National Park (1.5–2 hrs away)

Colorado Springs
Nearby landmarks: Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, North Cheyenne Cañon Park

Fort Collins
Nearby landmarks: Horsetooth Reservoir, Lory State Park, Cache la Poudre River Canyon

Durango
Nearby landmarks: San Juan Mountains, Million Dollar Highway, Mesa Verde National Park

Grand Junction
Nearby landmarks: Colorado National Monument, Palisade wineries, access to Moab and eastern Utah

National Parks in Colorado:

If you’re dreaming of mountain views, alpine lakes, or desert cliffs, these national parks are worth looking into for your elopement—or just exploring while you’re here.

Rocky Mountain National Park: Classic Colorado. Think alpine lakes, golden aspens, and peaks for days.

Great Sand Dunes National Park: Massive sand dunes with epic desert-meets-mountain backdrops.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park: Steep, dramatic cliffs with fewer crowds.

Mesa Verde National Park: Ancient cliff dwellings + high desert scenery = an underrated gem.

Best State Parks in Colorado:

Colorado’s state parks are just as beautiful—often with easier logistics, fewer people, and more flexibility. Here are a few of my favorites for elopements:

Lory State Park: Right outside Fort Collins with views, trails, and plenty of privacy.

Staunton State Park: Close to Denver, with aspen groves, rocky cliffs, and scenic trails.

Ridgway State Park: Tucked into the San Juan Mountains with unreal mountain backdrops.

Mueller State Park: Forested and peaceful, near Colorado Springs.

How to Travel Around Colorado

If you’re flying in for your Colorado elopement, you’ll want to have a solid plan for getting here and getting around. This state is big—like, actually big—and while public transportation exists in some areas, renting a car is usually the way to go. Especially if you’re planning to elope somewhere quiet and scenic (which…you are, right?). The good news? Colorado makes it easy to get where you need to go, with plenty of rental options and routes that are almost as pretty as the destination.

Major Airports in Colorado:

Here’s a quick breakdown of Colorado’s most-used airports—so you and your guests can figure out the easiest arrival (and getaway) options.

International Airports

• Denver International Airport (DEN) | Central Colorado – Largest airport in the state with the most direct flight options
• Colorado Springs Airport (COS) | Southern Colorado – Smaller than DEN, but a good option for couples eloping near Pikes Peak or the Sangre de Cristos

Regional & Domestic Airports

• Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT) | Western Colorado – Best for elopements near the Colorado National Monument or Palisade
• Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO) | Southwest Colorado – Great for Telluride, Ouray, or the San Juan Mountains
• Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) | Central mountains – Closest to Vail and Aspen
• Yampa Valley Regional Airport (HDN) | Northwest Colorado – Best for Steamboat Springs and surrounding areas

How to Travel Around Colorado by Car

Let’s keep it real: unless you’re staying in Denver the whole time (which… you’re probably not), you’re going to want to rent a car. Most of Colorado’s best elopement spots are tucked into the mountains, spread out in national forests, or nestled near small towns—so rideshare options like Uber and Lyft can be limited or nonexistent in those areas. And while public transit exists in cities like Denver, Boulder, and Colorado Springs, it doesn’t really cover the scenic or remote areas where elopements tend to happen.

Pro tips:

• Rent an SUV or something with decent clearance, especially if you’re heading into the mountains or want to explore dirt roads.
• Plan for drive time. That scenic overlook or private cabin might be a few hours from the airport—Colorado is spread out!
• Watch the weather. Snow and ice can impact mountain travel well into late spring—and some high mountain passes don’t fully open until June or even July. Always check road conditions before heading out.

Why Should You Elope in Colorado?

You’re not planning your elopement to follow anyone else’s script—and Colorado gets that. This state gives you the freedom to slow down, make your own rules, and build a day that actually reflects your relationship. Whether that looks like sharing vows in the middle of a mountain meadow, grabbing beers at your favorite local spot, or spending the evening with your people around a fire—Colorado has the space (and the views) for it.

It’s laid-back, stunning, and wildly accessible. You can drive right up to some of the most beautiful places you’ve ever seen, no hiking boots required. Want to bring your dog? Go for it. Want to split the day between alone time and a dinner party with your favorite people? That’s the sweet spot. And legally? Eloping here couldn’t be easier. No officiant, no witnesses—you can even self-solemnize and sign your own license.

Colorado is right for your elopement if…

• You want a wedding day that feels intimate, relaxed, and personal
• You love being surrounded by natural beauty without doing a 10-mile hike to get there
• You’re down for a mix of cozy and scenic—cabins, breweries, mountain towns, and killer views
• You want time for both just-the-two-of-you moments and time with your closest people

Colorado might not be right for you if…

• You’re looking for an elopement location that stays warm year-round—Colorado can still get snow in June, especially at higher elevations
• You want everything to be super walkable without needing a car—most of the best spots here are spread out, and renting a car is pretty much essential
• You don’t love nature or don’t want to be outdoors at all during your day
• You’re not up for unpredictable weather—Colorado is known for sudden storms, shifting conditions, and wild temperature swings, so flexibility and solid backup plans are key

FAQ’s About Eloping in Colorado

Do I need an officiant for my Colorado elopement?

Yep—you can self-solemnize in Colorado, which means you don’t need an officiant or even any witnesses to legally get married. More on that below.

How many witnesses do I need at my Colorado elopement?

Zero! Colorado is one of the only states where you don’t need witnesses. You can even have your dog “sign” your marriage license with a paw print (not a joke).

Is Colorado a good place to elope?

Absolutely. It’s easy, beautiful, and full of laid-back places that don’t require a big hike to get to. Plus, the legal side is super straightforward. Scroll up to read why it might be perfect for you.

What’s the best time of year to elope in Colorado?

Short answer: late summer and fall are the most reliable for weather, but each season brings something different. Keep reading for a seasonal breakdown.

Do we need a permit to elope in Colorado?

Sometimes! It depends on the location—many national and state parks do require one. I help all my couples figure this part out, and we’ll get into the details later in the blog.

Where can we elope in Colorado without hiking?

So many spots. From scenic overlooks to alpine lakes you can drive right up to, you’ve got options. I’ll share some of the best low-effort, high-reward locations in the next section.

Can we include our family or friends in our elopement?

Yes! A lot of my couples bring 5–15 of their favorite people and split the day between solo time and time with their crew. Eloping doesn’t have to mean just the two of you.

Can we get beers after our vows?

Hell yes you can. Whether it’s a post-ceremony brewery stop, a champagne pop at the overlook, or drinks back at your Airbnb with your people—Colorado makes room for whatever feels like you.

Best Time of Year to Elope in Colorado

One of the best things about eloping in Colorado? Every season brings something totally different to the table. Whether you’re here for wildflowers, snow-dusted peaks, or golden aspen groves, there’s no wrong time to elope—but some months definitely make planning easier than others. Here’s what you need to know.

Colorado Seasons & Weather

Spring (March–May)
Spring is unpredictable—sunny one day, snowing the next. High-elevation roads and trails might still be closed, and muddy conditions can make some areas inaccessible. That said, spring can be peaceful, with fewer crowds and early wildflowers starting to pop at lower elevations.

Summer (June–August)
Summer is peak elopement season for a reason. Alpine areas finally open up, wildflowers peak in July, and there’s no shortage of places you can drive right up to and still get that jaw-dropping mountain backdrop. Just be ready for afternoon thunderstorms—and bring layers.

Fall (September–early November)
Fall in Colorado is chef’s kiss. It’s a sweet spot for elopements—less crowded than summer, more predictable than spring, and still totally accessible in most areas. Timing is key, September is peak foliage, especially in the mountains. Some roads may close by late October.

Winter (late November–February)
Snowy backdrops, cozy cabins, and dreamy ski town vibes. Ideal for winter lovers, but be prepared for cold, road closures, and backup plans. Some areas stay open and drivable, especially around the Front Range, but mountain elopements can require more logistics.

Best Time of Year to Elope in Colorado For…

Wildflowers: July – early August (best in the high alpine!)

Golden aspens: Mid – late September

Snowy backdrops: December – March

Avoiding crowds: May or late October

Warm weather with mountain access: Late June – September

Skiing & snowboarding: December – February

Low-effort mountain views (no hiking): July – October

Top 10 Colorado Elopement Locations

Colorado is full of beautiful places to say your vows—whether you want a chill lakeside picnic, dramatic mountain views, or something in between. Here are 10 of the best regions and landscapes for your Colorado elopement, with quick info to help you figure out what might be the best fit for your day.

1. Crested Butte

Alpine lakes, wildflower meadows, golden aspens—it’s hard to beat Crested Butte’s views. It’s remote in the best way, with some of the most stunning summer and fall scenery in the state. Want to elope here? I’ve got a full Crested Butte Elopement Guide for you.

Closest airport + driving time: Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport (45 mins) or Montrose Regional Airport (2 hrs)

Closest towns: Crested Butte, Gunnison

Best time of year to elope: July – early October

Permits needed: Varies depending on location—especially for Forest Service land

2. Rocky Mountain National Park

Iconic mountain views, easy-to-access ceremony spots, and lots of variety—from lakes to alpine overlooks. It’s popular for a reason, but it still offers pockets of privacy. Want all the details? Check out my full Rocky Mountain National Park Elopement Guide.

Closest airport + driving time: Denver International Airport (2 hrs)

Closest towns: Estes Park, Lyons

Best time of year to elope: June – October

Permits needed: Yes—RMNP special use permit required

3. Telluride & Ouray (San Juan Mountains)

Dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and some of the most jaw-dropping mountain passes in the state. Great for couples who want epic scenery without a huge crowd.

Closest airport + driving time: Montrose Regional Airport (1.5 hrs)

Closest towns: Telluride, Ouray, Ridgway, Silverton

Best time of year to elope: Late June – early October

Permits needed: Varies depending on location; many outdoor spots are on Forest Service land

A charming ski town that’s just as beautiful in summer and fall. Think alpine lakes, pine forests, and scenic overlooks you can drive right up to.

Closest airport + driving time: Denver International Airport (2 hrs)

Closest towns: Breckenridge, Frisco, Dillon

Best time of year to elope: June – August for greenery; September for peak fall colors

Permits needed: Varies depending on location; national forest areas often do

5. Great Sand Dunes National Park

Golden dunes, mountain backdrops, and one of the most unique landscapes in Colorado. Perfect for a minimal, cinematic vibe.

Closest airport + driving time: Colorado Springs Airport (2.5 hrs) or Denver International Airport (4 hrs)

Closest towns: Alamosa, Crestone

Best time of year to elope: Late spring and early fall—summer can be hot

Permits needed: Yes—Special Use Permit required

6. Steamboat Springs

Lush valleys, hot springs, and alpine lakes make this area feel like a hidden gem. Beautiful in both summer and fall, and great for a weekend getaway vibe.

Closest airport + driving time: Yampa Valley Regional Airport (30 mins)

Closest towns: Steamboat Springs

Best time of year to elope: July – early October

Permits needed: Depends on exact location—national forest permits may apply

7. Aspen

High-end meets high-altitude. Aspen is a stunner with luxury stays, drive-up lakes, and unreal fall foliage. Great for couples wanting comfort and views.

Closest airport + driving time: Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (10 mins) or Eagle Regional (2 hrs)

Closest towns: Aspen, Snowmass, Basalt, Carbondale

Best time of year to elope: Late June–early October

Permits needed: Depends on location—many areas near Maroon Bells require permits

8. Buena Vista

River valleys, 14ers in every direction, and a super laid-back feel. Great for couples who want a mix of epic views and a relaxed, less-crowded town.

Closest airport + driving time: Colorado Springs Airport (2 hrs) or Denver International Airport (2.5 hrs)

Closest towns: Buena Vista, Salida

Best time of year to elope: June – October

Permits needed: May vary based on location; many spots are in national forest or BLM land

9. Indian Peaks Wilderness

A local favorite just outside of Boulder, with alpine lakes, jagged peaks, and wildflowers. It’s gorgeous and accessible—but limited permits mean you’ll need to plan ahead.

Closest airport + driving time: Denver International Airport (1.5 hrs)

Closest towns: Nederland, Boulder

Best time of year to elope: July – September

Permits needed: Yes—required for groups and overnight use in many areas

10. Fort Collins & Lory State Park 

If you’re looking for rolling foothills, reservoir views, and fewer crowds, Fort Collins is a solid pick. Lory State Park offers easy access, mountain views, and flexible ceremony options.

Closest airport + driving time: Denver International Airport (1.5 hrs)

Closest towns: Fort Collins

Best time of year to elope: May – October

Permits needed: Yes—Lory State Park Special Activity Permit required for ceremonies

Colorado Elopement Legal Guide: Marriage Laws, Licenses, and Permits

Colorado makes it surprisingly easy to elope—no officiant required, no witnesses needed, and yes, your dog can sign your marriage license. Below is a quick overview of what you need to know about getting legally married in Colorado. If you want all the juicy details (and a step-by-step breakdown), head to my full blog post on How to Elope in Colorado.

Colorado Marriage Laws

• Witnesses required: None
• Officiant required: Nope—you can self-solemnize
• Waiting period: None
• License valid for: 35 days
• Filing deadline: Must be returned within 63 days after signing
• Fee: Around $30 (varies slightly by county)

How to Get Your Colorado Marriage License

1. Apply in person at any County Clerk and Recorder’s Office in Colorado
2. Bring valid ID (driver’s license or passport works)
3. Pay the fee (cash or card, depending on the office)
4. Sign the license on your elopement day—no officiant or witnesses needed
5. Return it by mail or in person within 63 days

No need to get married in the same county where you pick up your license—it’s valid anywhere in the state.

Colorado National & State Park Special Use Permits

National Parks:

Eloping in places like Rocky Mountain National Park or Great Sand Dunes National Park? You’ll need a Special Use Permit, and many parks limit how many weddings they allow per day. These permits can take weeks to process, so apply early.

State Parks:

Most state parks (like Lory, Staunton, or Ridgway) require a Special Activity Permit for ceremonies. Fees and rules vary by park, so I always help my couples sort through the details when we plan your day.

Where to Stay In Colorado

Whether you’re crashing in a cabin, posting up in a boutique hotel, or rolling into camp under the stars, Colorado’s got options for every kind of elopement weekend. Here are a few ideas based on the vibe you’re going for—plus some of the best regions to look depending on what kind of stay you’re into.

Airbnbs/VRBOs

Perfect if you want a cozy, private space to get ready, unwind, or even host a post-ceremony dinner with your people. These are ideal for elopements with family and friends, or if you want your stay to double as a beautiful photo backdrop.

Crested Butte: Think A-frame cabins in the woods or restored mining homes in town

Telluride/Ouray: Mountain lodges with hot tubs and massive views

Buena Vista: Riverfront cabins and modern-rustic homes near downtown

Steamboat Springs: Spacious stays near the slopes or tucked into the pines

Fort Collins: Backyard cottages, modern farmhouses, and foothills getaways

Pro tip: Book early for peak summer and fall weekends—places go fast.

Hotels, Lodges, & Resorts

Want more amenities? These stays are great for couples who want something low-maintenance, with luxe touches and easy access to restaurants or spas.

Aspen: The Little Nell (high-end, ski-in/ski-out), Hotel Jerome (historic + design-forward)

Breckenridge: Gravity Haus, The Lodge at Breckenridge, or smaller boutique inns near Main Street

Telluride: Madeline Hotel & Residences, New Sheridan Hotel

Estes Park (RMNP): The Stanley Hotel (if you’re into spooky history) or The Inn on Fall River for riverside cabins

San Juans: The Wyman Hotel (modern meets wild west charm), or rustic luxury lodges in the mountains

Campgrounds

For couples who want to sleep under the stars, start a fire after their vows, or just keep things simple and scenic.

Indian Peaks Wilderness: Camp near Brainard Lake (permits required in summer)

Great Sand Dunes: Ramble—a beautifully designed, modern campground with private sites and unreal views of the dunes

Crested Butte: Gothic Campground, Lake Irwin, or dispersed camping along Slate River Road

San Juan Mountains: Amphitheater Campground (above Ouray), or dispersed sites on Last Dollar Road

RMNP: Moraine Park and Glacier Basin are solid picks—permits book out months in advance

Colorado Elopement Activities That Go Beyond the Vows

Your elopement isn’t just about the ceremony—it’s about creating a day (or a few days) that actually feels like you. Whether you want to keep it chill or make it a full-on celebration, Colorado’s packed with fun, meaningful things to do before, during, and after you say your vows. Here are just a few ideas to get the wheels turning:

Low-Key, Feel-Good Additions for Your Elopement Day

• Grab coffee at your favorite local spot before getting ready
• Pop champagne or crack a beer at your ceremony location
• Head to a brewery or restaurant with your people afterward
• Cook dinner together or hire a private chef at your Airbnb
• Take a sunset drive or stargaze somewhere quiet
• Soak in hot springs (hello, Steamboat and Ouray)

Make Your Colorado Elopement an Adventure

• Rent a Jeep and explore a scenic mountain pass (like Imogene or Last Dollar Road)
• Go paddleboarding or kayaking on a high-alpine lake
• Ride the gondola in Telluride or Aspen for unreal views
• Plan a sunrise or sunset hike to a favorite overlook
• Go horseback riding in the foothills or high country
• Take a scenic train ride (like the Durango & Silverton or Georgetown Loop)

Group-Friendly Fun for the Elopement Weekend

• Book a group yoga class or wellness experience
• Host a backyard pizza night or bonfire at your rental
• Plan a group float trip, brewery crawl, or post-vow brunch
• Rent paddleboards, bikes, or snowshoes for the crew
• Visit a local farmers market or festival during your trip

Colorado gives you room to do whatever makes your day feel full—not just with views, but with connection, comfort, and maybe even a little chaos (the good kind). Want help planning what this could look like for you? I’m here for it.

Your Colorado Elopement Photographer

Hey, I’m Rachel—Colorado elopement photographer and Super 8 filmmaker obsessed with good light, real connection, and helping couples create a day that actually feels like them. I’ve photographed elopements all over this state—from the wildflower meadows of Crested Butte to the windy overlooks in Rocky Mountain National Park—and I know how to help you plan a day that’s relaxed, meaningful, and full of moments you’ll actually want to remember.

Whether you’re dreaming of a weekend tucked away in a mountain town with your closest people or something low-key and private with just the two of you, I’m here to guide you through it. I help with everything from timelines to permits to location scouting—and I’ll document the full story of your day, not just the posed stuff. Expect plenty of candids, some grainy film vibes, and images that feel just like you remember it.

If you’re reading this thinking “ohhh yep, this is exactly what we want”—I’d love to hear from you.

Limited spots available for 2025, and now booking into 2026—you can check out more of my work and get in touch here.

Colorado Elopement Packages

Whether you’re planning a two-person ceremony on a mountaintop or a weekend-long celebration with your closest crew, I offer Colorado elopement packages that give you the space and time to actually enjoy it all. No rushed timelines, or stiff posing. Just real moments, great light, and a day (or few) that feels like you.

I offer packages ranging from 6 hours to 3 days, so whether you’re keeping things simple or turning your elopement into a whole weekend experience, there’s room for it here.

Pricing starts at $4,500, and all packages include:

• Personalized location suggestions and on-the-ground scouting to help find your spot

• Vendor research and recommendations to bring your day together

• Custom timeline creation built around how you actually want to spend your day

• Permit and travel guidance

• Help finding lodging and activity ideas that match your vibe

• Access to my full elopement planning guide

• Unlimited consultation calls to help you feel supported from day one

• Previews delivered within 72 hours

• An online gallery with printing rights

• Optional Super 8 film or other add-ons

• Travel anywhere in Colorado—no extra fees

Want to jeep into your ceremony spot, grab drinks at your favorite brewery, or watch the sunrise from your Airbnb the next morning? Hell yes. Let’s make it happen. Reach out here to get the full pricing guide and check availability.

Final Tips for Your Colorado Elopement

Before you start packing your bags and dreaming up your timeline, here are a few final things to keep in mind when planning your Colorado elopement. These are the little things that can make your day smoother, your photos better, and your experience that much more fun:

You can self-solemnize in Colorado. That means you don’t need an officiant or witnesses to make your marriage legal. You can sign your own license—and yes, your dog can too.

Weather is unpredictable. Even in summer, you might get afternoon thunderstorms or snow at higher elevations (sometimes into June or July). Always have a backup plan—and bring layers.

Start early. Not just with planning, but with your actual elopement day. Popular locations fill up fast (both for permits and parking), and early mornings usually mean fewer people and softer light.

Altitude is no joke. If you’re coming from out of state, give yourself a day or two to acclimate—drink water, go easy on booze, and don’t plan a high-altitude hike right after landing.

Rental cars book fast. Especially during peak summer and fall weekends. Book early, and if you’re heading into the mountains, try to rent an SUV or something with decent clearance.

Permits are a thing. Whether you’re eloping in a national park, state park, or national forest, you’ll likely need a permit. I help all my couples navigate this part so you don’t have to stress.

Sunsets are stunning—but short. Once the sun dips behind the mountains, it gets dark fast. If you’re planning golden hour photos, we’ll time it just right so you don’t miss the good stuff.

Ready to Elope in Colorado?

Whether you’re already set on the mountains or just starting to imagine what your day could look like, I hope this guide helped you feel a little more excited—and a little more grounded—in planning a Colorado elopement that actually feels like you. If you’re ready to start dreaming up your day together, I’d be stoked to help.

Get in touch here to check my availability, get the full pricing guide, and start planning a day you’ll never want to forget.