anna harrington

How to Elope in Colorado in 2026

The ultimate Colorado elopement guide

Colorado is the perfect place to elope the way that truly feels like you!

LOVE THE MOUNTAINS, BUT NOT THE PRESSURE OF A BIG WEDDING? ELOPING IN COLORADO MIGHT BE FOR YOU...

Why elope in Colorado?

Best time of year to elope in Colorado

Where to elope in Colorado

TABLE OF CONTENTS

How to pick Colorado elopement vendors 

Where to stay for a Colorado elopement 

Colorado elopement laws & permits

Colorado elopement checklist

Typical cost of a Colorado elopement

Colorado elopement ideas

WHY ELOPE IN COLorado?

Colorado is one of the best places to elope in 2026, offering adventure-friendly locations and the unique ability to self-solemnize—meaning you don’t need an officiant or witnesses to legally marry! Whether you dream of saying “I do” on a mountaintop, next to an alpine lake, or in a golden aspen grove, a Colorado elopement is perfect for laidback, outdoorsy couples.

Here in Colorado, couples can legally marry themselves, without needing an officiant or witnesses present. All you need to do is apply for a marriage license at any Colorado county clerk’s office, and once it’s in your hands, you have the flexibility to say your vows anywhere. Some couples even include their dog as the "witness" by stamping their paw print on the license!




SELF-SOLEMNIZATION




COLORADO MOUNTAINS


Colorado is home to some of the most breathtaking backdrops in the U.S., like Rocky Mountain National Park, Crested Butte, Maroon Bells, and the San Juan Mountains. The mountains provide sweeping views with fields of wildflowers in late June through August. In addition to mountain peaks, you’ll also find waterfalls (like Bridal Veil), alpine lakes (like Emerald Lake), and golden aspen groves in the fall.



YEAR-ROUND ACTIVITIES 

The summer is ideal for hiking and enjoying wildflower meadows, turquoise lakes, and warm starry nights. Fall brings crisp air and colorful foliage, with aspens turning shades of yellow and orange. Winter transforms Colorado into a snowy wonderland, perfect for cozy lodge vibes, snowshoeing, or skiing elopements. In the spring, you'll find fresh waterfalls and greenery as the snow thaws. Each season offers a different kind of adventure, so your Colorado elopement can be customized to the time of year that feels right for you.


MEET YOUR COLORADO ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER

I'm Anna, and I help laidback couples say ‘I do’ in the great outdoors of Colorado. It's such an honor to come alongside my couples as a guide, and to see their dream day unfold! If you're looking for an expert elopement planner and photographer, then let's chat! 

My personal favorite Colorado locations:






San Juan Mountains 

Aspen & mt. sopris

Loveland Pass

ROCKY MOUNTAIN NP







COLORADO ELOPEMENT LAWS & PERMITS

COLORADO ELOPEMENT LAWS & PERMITS

"DO I NEED A PERMIT TO ELOPE IN COLORADO?"

You may need a location permit for your elopement ceremony if it is in a national park or other landmark. The requirements vary depending on the location, so it's essential to check in advance and apply early if you do need a permit. 

2026 colorado marriage permits

Currently, no specific permit is required for an elopement ceremony in a Colorado National Forest, as long as the group is small (less than 20 people) and there are no props in use. See the links below on specific forest information for your Colorado elopement.

COLORADO NATIONAL FORESTS

Most national parks require a Special Use Permit for a small wedding or elopement ceremony. Here is further information for the requirements of specific parks: Rocky Mountain National Park, Great Sand Dunes, Black Canyon of the Gunnison.

COLORADO NATIONAL PARKS

Permits and regulations vary for State Parks. While some don't require a Special Use Permit, others may require a reservation for a ceremony. Find more information here.

COLORADO state parks

COLORADO MARRIAGE LICENSE

  • Where: Any county clerk and recorder’s office in Colorado
  • Who: Both partners must appear in person
  • Cost: Typically $30
  • No Waiting Period: You can use the license immediately
  • Expiration: The license is valid for 35 days

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

WHAT YOU NEED TO BRING

  • Proof of identity: driver's license or passport
  • Your social security number
  • Birth certificate (required in some locations)
  • Your specific ceremony date
  • Optional: a cool folder to put your license in
Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests
Pike-San Isabel National Forests
Uncompahgre National Forest
San Juan National Forest
White River National Forest

STEP-BY-STEP COLORADO ELOPEMENT CHECKLIST

1. START WITH VISION

Take time to dream up your perfect Colorado elopement day. Do you imagine hiking to a mountaintop at sunrise, saying your vows beside an alpine lake, or having a cozy winter ceremony in a snowy forest? Defining your vision helps guide every decision, from your location to your timeline, and ensures your elopement feels true to you as a couple.

2. BOOK A PHOTOGRAPHER

Hiring a Colorado elopement photographer early on is key. A local photographer (like me!) not only documents your day, but also helps with location scouting, permits, and timeline planning. They know the hidden gems and how to navigate Colorado’s unpredictable weather. I'd love to be your Colorado elopement guide to ensure your experience is stress-free and unforgettable. I'm booking for 2026, with limited spots available, so let's chat!

3. PICK AN ELOPEMENT DATE

Choose a date that aligns with the season and scenery you love most. Colorado’s summer months are perfect for wildflowers and alpine hikes, while fall brings golden aspens, and winter offers snowy wonderland vibes. Keep in mind weekdays often mean fewer crowds at popular spots, making them ideal for an intimate elopement.

4. CHOOSE A LOCATION

Colorado has no shortage of incredible elopement locations, from Rocky Mountain National Park and the San Juan Mountains to hidden alpine lakes and off-the-beaten-path trails. Consider accessibility, scenery, and the type of adventure you want.

5. BOOK TRAVEL

Once your date and location are set, book your travel, lodging, and other key details. Colorado offers everything from luxury cabins and mountain lodges to rustic campgrounds and cozy Airbnbs. Don’t forget to secure your marriage license, research permits (if needed), and plan for transportation—especially if your location requires off-road access or a hike.

6. MAP OUT A TIMELINE

A custom elopement timeline makes your day run smoothly while leaving space for spontaneity. Plan around travel time to and from your location and breaks to soak in the moment. If you work with me, I'll create this timeline for you, and we'll tweak it together as needed!

7. ELOPE!

When the day arrives, let go of stress and fully enjoy the experience. This is your chance to celebrate your love in one of the most beautiful places in the world. Whether you’re hiking through the mountains, skiing down a slope, or simply exchanging vows under the open sky, your Colorado elopement will be an unforgettable start to your marriage.

Where to elope in Colorado

2026 COLORADO ELOPEMENT LOCATIONS

LOVELAND PASS, BRECKENRIDGE

This is one of my favorite Colorado elopement locations with easy access! Just a few steps from the parking lot are incredible views of the surrounding rocky mountains and the valley below. There is a second parking lot less than a minute from the first. That one leads to two small lakes, which are both perfect for a small ceremony location.

Pros of eloping at Loveland Pass:

  • Easily accessible
  • More secluded
  • Epic views
  • No permit required for ceremonies less than 15 people

Cons of eloping at Loveland Pass:

  • More tourists will be present during the summer
  • Can be pretty windy, as it's at 12,000 feet

ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK

Rocky Mountain National Park is an iconic place to elope in Colorado. Its alpine lakes, mountain views, and wildlife offer a special place for your elopement. As it is a National Park, Rocky Mountain can be very busy and crowded in the summer months (June-August). You'll need a timed entry pass for specific locations and times.

Pros of eloping at RMNP:

  • Iconic location and scenery
  • Great for sunrise & sunset
  • Wildlife viewing
  • Close to Estes Park with more accommodations for guests

Cons of eloping at RMNP:

  • $300 required permit to get married in the park
  • Lots of tourists and crowds
  • Parking can be limited during the summer season

CRESTED BUTTE, GUNNISON COUNTY

Crested Butte, Colorado is often called the “Wildflower Capital of Colorado,” and for good reason. This charming mountain town offers colorful alpine meadows, rugged peaks, and a laid-back vibe perfect for couples who love the outdoors. In summer, it’s filled with endless trails for hiking and biking, while fall brings glowing aspen forests, and winter transforms it into a world-class ski destination. With its breathtaking scenery and small-town charm, Crested Butte is a dreamy spot for an adventurous elopement.

Pros of eloping in Crested Butte:

  • Surrounded by mountain views
  • A true four-season destination
  • A charming place to stay

Cons of eloping in Crested Butte:

  • More remote
  • Some spots can be trickier to access (4x4 required)

ASPEN, COLORADO

Aspen, Colorado is a world-famous mountain town known for its upscale charm, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. Nestled in the heart of the Rockies, Aspen offers breathtaking backdrops for elopements—from golden aspen groves in the fall to snow-covered peaks in the winter. Beyond its luxurious resorts and fine dining, you’ll find endless outdoor adventures, including hiking, skiing, and exploring the iconic Maroon Bells. With its mix of elegance and rugged scenery, Aspen is a dream destination for couples wanting both adventure and sophistication on their wedding day.

Pros of eloping in Aspen:

  • Iconic views of the Maroon Bells
  • Luxury resorts mixed with outdoor adventure
  • Year-round beauty with changing seasons
  • Endless hiking, skiing, and alpine lakes

Cons of eloping in Aspen:

  • Popular spots can get crowded
  • Limited parking and permit requirements
  • Advanced booking often necessary

GOOGLE MAP VIEW

Traveling to Rocky Mountain NP:

  • Closest major airport is Denver, at just under a 2 hr drive
  • Closest place to stay nearby is Estes Park (10 min drive to the Beaver Meadows Entrance) 
  • Other towns to stay in: Grand Lake, Granby, Loveland
  • I recommend renting an AWD vehicle while in RMNP

Ceremony locations in Rocky Mountain:


SAN JUAN MOUNTAINS

The San Juans are such a hidden gem! They spread across southwest Colorado in the towns of Ouray, Telluride, and Silverton. They are called the "Switzerland of America" due to their unique jagged peaks. This mountain range is especially beautifully in early Spring when the snow still coats the ground. Depending on where you stay, there are lots of entry point trails and open areas for a ceremony, private vows, and exploring on your elopement day. 

Pros of eloping in the San Juans:

  • Private and secluded
  • Hidden gem spots
  • Unique jagged mountains
  • No permit required for most spots
  • Beautiful year-round

Cons of eloping in the San Juans:

  • Roads are rugged and can be harder to access
  • Very high altitudes 9,000 ft and up (arrive at least a  few days before your elopement to acclimate)

Traveling to Loveland Pass:

  • Closest major airport is Denver, at a 1hr 30min drive
  • Close towns to stay in: Breckenridge, Dillon, Silverthorne, Frisco 

Other things to see nearby:


Traveling to Crested Butte:

  • Closest airport is Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional, then Montrose airport (1hr 45), and Denver (4hrs)

Crested Butte ceremony locations:


Traveling to Aspen:

  • Closest airport is Aspen/Pitkin County, then Denver (3hr 45mins away)
  • Stay in downtown Aspen, Snowmass, Basalt, Carbondale, or Glenwood Springs

Aspen ceremony locations:

Traveling to the San Juans:

  • Closest airport is Montrose Regional (50 min drive from nearby towns)
  • Stay in Ridgway, Ouray, Telluride, or farther south in Silverton

San Juan Mountains ceremony locations:


BONUS: SMALL COLORADO WEDDING VENUES

Perfect for your elopement or micro wedding of less than 50 guests

Grand Lake Lodge

Manor Vail Lodge

Mountain Wedding Garden in Crested Butte

Trappers Cabin in Beaver Creek

Gold Mountain Ranch in Ouray

San Sophia Overlook Telluride

Airbnb example for a micro wedding

Best time of year to elope in Colorado

Summer is one of the most popular times to elope in Colorado, especially in the high country. Wildflowers blanket alpine meadows from late June through August, and long days mean plenty of time for hiking and exploring. This season is ideal for couples wanting mountain adventures and accessible trails, though afternoon thunderstorms are common, so sunrise or sunset ceremonies are often best.

SUMMER (JUNE-AUGUST)

HOW CAN WE AVOID CROWDS?

To avoid tourists and large crowds in popular locations like Rocky Mountain National Park, you should choose an off-time or season to elope. The busiest months are June-September, and the busiest times are the weekends. 

If you want to get married during those months, I suggest a weekday for your elopement. You'll have a unique wedding date! To be as close to prime weather as possible while remaining in tourist low season, pick a day in late May or October. 

WHAT'S THE BEST TIME OF DAY TO ELOPE IN COLORADO?

Honestly, anytime you want! I always recommend full-day adventure elopements to my couples in Colorado. That way they can spend an entire day exploring together with no time constraints. When it comes to your Colorado elopement ceremony, sunrise is a wonderful time. If you're having some close friends and family members join in, you can make it an adventure for them too! Your day could look like: sunrise ceremony with your 10 people, private vows, an outdoor breakfast celebration, take a break, go for a hike, afternoon picnic, sunset with a view, then stargazing under a candlelit dinner. 

Fall in Colorado is absolutely magical, with aspen trees turning golden across the mountainsides. September usually offers crisp air and sunny days, while October brings cooler temps and a higher chance of snow at higher elevations. Fall is one of the busiest times for visitors, so weekday elopements are best for avoiding crowds and securing the most peaceful locations.

FALL (SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER)

WINTER (NOVEMBER-MARCH)

Winter transforms Colorado into a snowy wonderland, perfect for cozy, intimate elopements. Ski towns like Breckenridge, Aspen, and Telluride offer both adventure and charm, with options to ski right after your ceremony or snuggle up in a mountain lodge. While conditions can be harsh at high elevations, winter elopements are breathtaking for couples who love snow-covered peaks and want a truly magical backdrop.

SPRING (APRIL-MAY)

Spring in Colorado brings melting snow, rushing waterfalls, and fresh greenery in the lower elevations. While mountain passes may still be snow-covered through May, this season is perfect for couples who want fewer crowds and cooler weather. Just keep in mind that spring conditions can be unpredictable—one day might be sunny and mild, while the next could bring late snowfall.

FAQ'S FROM COLORADO ELOPEMENT COUPLES

Typical cost of a Colorado elopement

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO ELOPE IN COLORADO?

The cost of eloping in Colorado can vary widely depending on the type of experience you want. Some couples spend under $6,000 for a simple, adventurous day, while others invest $10,000+ for a full-service, custom experience with travel, lodging, and curated details. The beauty of eloping in Colorado is that it’s customizable—you can keep it simple and budget-friendly or create an all-out, once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Here's a general breakdown cost for a Colorado elopement in 2026:

  • Marriage license: $30
  • Photographer: $6,000–$9,000+ (depending on coverage and experience)
  • Travel & lodging: $500–$3,000+ (cabins, Airbnbs, or mountain resorts)
  • Attire: $500–$3,000+ (dress, suit, accessories)
  • Hair & makeup: $200–$700
  • Florals: $150–$600 (bouquet, boutonniere, extras)
  • Permits/park fees: $0–$500 (location dependent)
  • Other vendors (officiant, videographer, planner, picnic, etc.): $1,000–$5,000+

COLORADO ELOPEMENT IDEAS

Hannah & Ethan's San Juan Mountains Elopement Story

Read the story here!

SEE A REAL TWO DAY COLORADO ELOPEMENT

COLORADO ELOPEMENT TIMELINE EXAMPLES

FULL DAY EXPERIENCE

9:00 a.m. Meet at Airbnb + getting ready
Coffee/tea, breakfast together, writing vows on the porch
10:30 a.m. Ceremony
11:30 a.m. Brunch with a view
1:30 p.m. Activity 1
Horseback riding, kayaking, waterfall, etc
3:30 p.m. Break for a picnic
In a meadow or by a lake
4:30 p.m. Activity 2
Wildlife viewing, painting together, etc
5:00 p.m. Head to sunset spot
5:30 p.m. Sunset private vows
7:00 p.m. Dinner under the stars
Campfire, local restaurant, private chef

Day One:
8:00 a.m. Meet at Airbnb + getting ready 
Coffee/tea, breakfast together, writing vows on the porch
9:30 a.m. Ceremony
10:30 a.m. Break for brunch
Back in the nearby town
12:30 p.m. Activity 1
Horseback riding, kayaking, waterfall, etc
2:30 p.m. Break for lunch/picnic
4:00 p.m. Activity 2
Hiking, wildlife viewing, painting together, etc
5:00 p.m. Head to sunset spot
6:00 p.m. Sunset private vows
7:30 p.m. Dinner under the stars
Campfire, local restaurant, private chef

Day Two:
12:00 p.m. Meet at location 1
Nature trail, waterfall, lake, etc
12:30 p.m. Activity/hiking 
2:30 p.m. Go into town/casual moments
Late lunch with a view, grabbing coffee, exploring
4:00 p.m. Activity 
5:00 p.m. Early dinner with family and friends


TWO DAY EXPERIENCE

When choosing what to do on your elopement day, remember what's most important to the two of you. Sit down together, and think about how you want to celebrate and enjoy your elopement. Here are some ideas to get you started:


  • Hiking
  • Horseback riding
  • Share a picnic
  • Swimming
  • Morning coffee
  • Private dinner
  • Camping
  • Kayaking
  • Exploring a town
  • Getting coffee/coffee shop
  • Taking a gondola
  • Popping champagne/wine

ACTIVITIES FOR YOUR COLORADO ELOPEMENT

CHOOSING COLORADO ELOPEMENT VENDORS

HOW TO DECIDE ON VENDORS

COLORADO ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHY & PLANNING

As a Colorado elopement photographer, I love helping my couples plan and photograph their dream day stress-free. It's all about making your elopement come to life and celebrating the way that truly feels like you, If you're looking for a photographer to be to be your built-in elopement guide, then let's chat!

Choosing a photographer you not only connect with personality wise, but someone who knows all about Colorado is important. This is something you should put high value on, as the experience and photos will be what remains after your elopement day. 

I recommend choosing vendors based on what you truly need. Book people that will love to be a part of your day and become friends throughout the process.

You may decide to order a bouquet from a local florist or a speciality cake for your elopement picnic. Whatever you decide, make sure it resonates with how you want your elopement day to flow. Remember to ask the question,"What is most important to us?"

Here are some ideas for Colorado vendors in specific locations:

FLORISTS

BAKERIES

HAIR & MAKEUP

COLORADO ELOPEMENT LODGING & LOCATIONS

COLORADO ELOPEMENT LODGING

where TO STAY FOR YOUR COLORADO ELOPEMENT

AIRBNB, hotels, & more

When looking for a place to stay for your elopement in Colorado, I always recommend to research Airbnbs first. Most couples find an ideal home or condo that is near/in the location they want to elope. You can find hidden gem cabins that are tucked away in the mountains, as well as some larger homes for you and your several guests to stay in together.

Hotels are a great option if you want to be as close to a specific town as possible. Bed and Breakfast's are also a nice cozy option if it's just the two of you staying together. 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK LODGING

LOVELAND PASS LODGING

CRESTED BUTTE LODGING

LODGING IN ASPEN & NEARBY

LODGING IN THE SAN JUAN MOUNTAINS

Hannah & Ethan

"Anna did such an amazing job at not only capturing the most beautiful photos but creating an experience that we will reminisce on for the rest of our days!"

I'll help you plan all the details for your 'I do' in the great outdoors!

DO YOU NEED HELP PLANNING YOUR ELOPEMENT?