The best colorado elopement locations (updated for 2026)
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?
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.
2026 COLORADO ELOPEMENT LOCATIONS
GOOGLE MAP VIEW
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
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:
- 3M Curve (15 people max)
- Sprague Lake dock (15 people max)
- Bear Lake (20 people max)
- Harbison Meadows (30 people max)
- Lily Lake Southside Picnic area (30 people max)
- Moraine Park Ampitheater (30 people max)
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
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:
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)
Traveling to Crested Butte:
- Closest airport is Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional, then Montrose airport (1hr 45), and Denver (4hrs)
Crested Butte ceremony locations:
- Woods Walk and Peanut Lake (open for reservation)
- Lake Irwin (more secluded spot)
- Kebler Pass (great for an adventure and photos!)
- Mt. Crested Butte/Snodgrass Trailhead
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
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:
- Maroon Bells Amphitheater
- Aspen mountain (lots of hidden spots for a small ceremony)
- Snowmass Wedding Terrace
- Aspen Cabin
- The Little Nell wedding deck
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 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:
- Gold Mountain Ranch in Ouray
- Yankee Boy Basin (adventurous, off-roading)
- Ridgway State Park Overlook
- Million Dollar Highway (lots of overlooks perfect for a small ceremony)
- Top of the Pines in Ridgway
BONUS: SMALL COLORADO WEDDING VENUES
Perfect for your elopement or micro wedding of less than 50 guests
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)
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.
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.
FAQ'S FROM COLORADO ELOPEMENT COUPLES
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
COLORADO NATIONAL FORESTS
COLORADO NATIONAL PARKS
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
COLORADO ELOPEMENT IDEAS
COLORADO ELOPEMENT TIMELINE EXAMPLES
FULL DAY EXPERIENCE
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
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
Hannah & Ethan's San Juan Mountains Elopement Story
Read the story here!
SEE A REAL TWO DAY COLORADO ELOPEMENT
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
where TO STAY FOR YOUR COLORADO ELOPEMENT
AIRBNB, hotels, & more
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.
- 4 bedroom home (Estes Park)
- 4 bedroom A-frame (Grand Lake)
- 4 bedroom cabin (Granby)
- Dao House Lodge (Estes Park)
- Camping in RMNP
ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK LODGING
- 5 bedroom home (Breckenridge)
- 4 bedroom home (Frisco)
- 4 bedroom home (Silverthorne)
- 3 bedroom condo (Keystone)
- The Lodge at Breckenridge
LOVELAND PASS LODGING
CRESTED BUTTE LODGING
- 2 bedroom home (Carbondale)
- 3 bedroom cabin (Carbondale)
- 4 bedroom home (Basalt)
- The Little Nell (Aspen)
- Hotel Jerome (Aspen)
LODGING IN ASPEN & NEARBY
- 4 bedroom home (Ouray)
- 3 bedroom apartment (Telluride)
- 3 bedroom home (Ridgway)
- The Western Hotel (Ouray)
- Mountain Village (Telluride)
LODGING IN THE SAN JUAN MOUNTAINS
Hannah & Ethan
