Best Places to Elope in Colorado (Local Photographer’s Guide)
Dreaming of an intimate wedding surrounded by towering mountains, alpine lakes, and golden sunsets? You’re not alone. Colorado has quickly become one of the most popular elopement destinations in the United States — and for good reason. With breathtaking landscapes, easy marriage laws, and endless scenic locations, couples from all over the world come here to say “I do.”
As a Colorado wedding photographer with more than 30 years of experience, I’ve had the privilege of photographing elopements in some of the most beautiful places in the state. If you’re planning a small, meaningful celebration, this guide will help you discover some of the best places to elope in Colorado.
Whether you’re dreaming of a mountain summit, a quiet alpine lake, or a romantic forest ceremony, Colorado offers a location that feels perfectly you.
Why Colorado Is Perfect for an Elopement
Couples love eloping in Colorado for several reasons:
• Incredible mountain scenery
• Beautiful locations in every season
• Simple marriage laws (you can even self-solemnize)
• Ideal for adventure-loving couples
• Endless options for intimate ceremonies
One of the most unique things about getting married in Colorado is that you don’t need an officiant or witnesses. This means couples can truly create a private and personal experience.
7 Best Places to Elope in Colorado
Rocky Mountain National Park
One of the most iconic places to elope in Colorado is Rocky Mountain National Park. With dramatic peaks, alpine lakes, and scenic overlooks, it’s a dream setting for couples who want a classic Colorado mountain backdrop.
The park has several designated ceremony locations that are perfect for small weddings and elopements. Popular spots include:
• Sprague Lake
• Lily Lake
• Moraine Park
Sunrise ceremonies here are especially magical, with soft golden light illuminating the mountains.
Tip: A permit is required for ceremonies inside the park.
Maroon Bells
Often called the most photographed mountains in North America, the stunning Maroon Bells are one of the most breathtaking elopement locations in the state.
Located near Aspen, this location features twin peaks reflected in a serene alpine lake, creating an unforgettable backdrop for your ceremony.
Fall is particularly spectacular here when the golden aspen trees light up the landscape.
Best for: Couples who want dramatic, postcard-worthy mountain views.
Garden of the Gods
If you’re looking for something truly unique, Garden of the Gods offers towering red rock formations set against the backdrop of Pikes Peak.
The contrast of red rock and mountain scenery creates incredible photos and a truly memorable ceremony location.
This location is especially beautiful at sunset when the rocks glow warm shades of orange and red.
Sapphire Point Overlook
For couples dreaming of a panoramic mountain ceremony, Sapphire Point Overlook is one of the most popular elopement locations in Colorado.
Perched high above Dillon Reservoir, this overlook offers sweeping views of the Tenmile Range.
It’s easily accessible and perfect for intimate ceremonies with a few close family members.
Telluride
For couples who want a truly magical mountain setting, Telluride is hard to beat.
Surrounded by towering peaks and waterfalls, Telluride offers some of the most dramatic landscapes in Colorado. One of the most popular ceremony locations is Bridal Veil Falls, the tallest free-falling waterfall in the state.
The charming historic town also provides beautiful spots for post-ceremony photos.
Breckenridge
The historic mountain town of Breckenridge is another incredible place to elope.
With alpine lakes, scenic overlooks, and charming streets lined with colorful Victorian buildings, Breckenridge offers a mix of mountain adventure and cozy mountain town vibes.
Nearby trails and lakes make it easy to find a private ceremony spot surrounded by nature.
Boulder Mountain Locations
For couples who want both stunning nature and easy access to great restaurants and accommodations, Boulder is a wonderful option.
The dramatic sandstone formations at Chautauqua Park provide a beautiful backdrop for intimate ceremonies with views of the Flatirons.
Sunset elopements here are particularly beautiful, with warm light illuminating the mountains.
Tips for Planning Your Colorado Elopement
Planning an elopement in Colorado is surprisingly simple, but there are a few things to keep in mind:
Check permit requirements
Many parks and scenic locations require special use permits for ceremonies.
Consider the time of day
Sunrise and sunset offer the best lighting and fewer crowds.
Plan for changing weather
Colorado weather can shift quickly, especially in the mountains.
Hire a photographer who knows the area
A local photographer can help you find hidden locations, navigate permits, and plan the perfect timeline.
Capturing Your Colorado Elopement
Your elopement day will be filled with meaningful, once-in-a-lifetime moments. Choosing the right photographer ensures those moments are beautifully preserved.
With more than 30 years of experience photographing weddings and elopements throughout Colorado, Jeanine Thurstonspecializes in capturing natural, timeless images that tell the story of your day.
From mountain summits to quiet forest trails, Colorado offers endless possibilities for unforgettable elopements — and I’d love to help you capture every moment.
Planning a Colorado elopement?
Visit jeaninethurston.com to learn more about elopement photography and start planning your perfect mountain wedding.
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