How to Elope in Colorado
Planning an adventurous elopement in Colorado is an exciting journey filled with endless possibilities and romance. To help you every step of the way, this guide on How to Elope in Colorado will provide expert tips on the best locations, trusted local vendors, and essential planning advice, covering everything you need to know about planning your dream mountain elopement.
Whether you’re choosing the perfect scenic backdrop or navigating the necessary permits, every detail plays a key role in making your special day extraordinary. With thoughtful preparation, elopement can become everything you’ve ever dreamed of. So without further ado, let’s dive in and start planning the adventure of a lifetime!
Why couples elope In Colorado
Colorado is a top elopement destination for couples seeking an adventurous, intimate day surrounded by natural beauty. With towering Rocky Mountains, alpine lakes, wildflower meadows, and charming mountain towns, the state offers diverse landscapes all within a short distance. Whether exchanging vows on a mountain pass at sunrise, beside a turquoise lake, or over sand dunes at sunset, Colorado provides endless breathtaking backdrops for an unforgettable elopement experience.
Another reason Colorado stands out is its easy, flexible legal process for eloping couples. It’s one of the few U.S. states where couples can self-solemnize, legally marrying without an officiant or witnesses. Combined with stunning landscapes, accessible adventures, and laid-back mountain culture, it’s clear why so many couples choose Colorado for their once-in-a-lifetime elopement.
Best time of year to visit Colorado
The best time to elope in Colorado is usually late spring through early fall, May to October, when trails are accessible and the weather is mild. Summer offers long sunny days, vibrant wildflowers, and lush mountain greenery. In fall, aspens turn golden, painting valleys and hillsides with colorful foliage. Winter can also be magical for couples seeking a cozy, intimate ceremony amid snow-capped peaks.
Imagine exchanging vows beneath golden aspens, beside waterfalls, atop alpine peaks, or near Colorado’s sand dunes and red rock formations. From secluded forest trails to scenic overlooks with sweeping mountain views, the state offers endless opportunities for a personalized, adventurous elopement. With its mix of rugged beauty, hidden spots, and charming small towns, Colorado lets couples create a truly unforgettable, intimate wedding experience.
Where to elope in Colorado
Colorado is filled with endless elopement possibilities, offering a landscape as varied as it is breathtaking. From towering Rocky Mountain peaks and serene alpine valleys to rolling meadows dotted with wildflowers, and even the otherworldly sand dunes of Great Sand Dunes National Park, couples have an extraordinary range of options for their ceremony. No matter where you choose to celebrate, Colorado’s natural beauty creates an unforgettable setting that feels both intimate and adventurous, making every elopement truly one-of-a-kind.
Things to consider when choosing your Colorado elopement location:
What type of scenery are you envisioning? Colorado offers golden aspens in fall, summer wildflowers, snowy peaks, and cozy winter scenes. Choosing your ideal backdrop helps pick the perfect season.
Will you be having any guests? Will you have any? Some remote spots may require hiking, 4×4 access, or have limited space for friends and family.
How will you be getting around? Consider how you’ll reach your location—scenic hikes, mountain drives, or jeep/4×4 adventures can each offer a unique experience.
Best places to elope in Colorado
Colorado is filled with breathtaking spots that are perfect for adventurous and intimate elopements. Whether you’re dreaming of an epic off-the-grid adventure, a quiet romantic ceremony, or a sentimental mountaintop exchange of vows, Colorado offers a location to suit every couple’s style and sense of adventure. With so many stunning backdrops to choose from, it’s easy to create a day that is not only beautiful and meaningful but also completely unique to your love story.
best places to elope in Colorado:
Maroon Bells, Aspen CO — One of Colorado’s most iconic alpine landscapes, Maroon Bells offers striking peaks reflected in pristine lakes (for good reason).
Great Sand Dunes National Park — For something truly unique, couples can exchange vows among the towering sand dunes with the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in the distance, creating a surreal and unforgettable setting.
Breckenridge
Breckenridge is also full of hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path spots that make for unforgettable elopements.
Loveland Pass
Loveland Pass offers a high-altitude, adventurous elopement setting with sweeping Rocky Mountain vistas and rugged terrain. It’s ideal for couples seeking bold, cinematic scenery.
San Juan Mountains – Bridal Veil Falls (near Telluride) — The San Juan Mountains are a dramatic and adventurous backdrop for elopements, with towering peaks, hidden alpine valleys, and rugged trails that feel completely off the beaten path.
How to Make Your Elopement Official
Colorado’s simple legal process makes it a popular elopement destination. Couples can get a marriage license from any county clerk’s office with just a valid photo ID and no waiting period. Even better, self-solemnization allows you to officiate your own ceremony without a third-party officiant. This flexibility, minimal paperwork, and quick process make Colorado ideal for couples seeking a stress-free, adventurous wedding.
Obtaining your marriage license
Getting a marriage license in Colorado is incredibly easy and hassle-free. You can obtain your license and get married on the same day. Bring a valid ID to any county clerk’s office to get your marriage license, and you’re all set! Colorado allows self-solemnization, meaning you don’t need an officiant or witnesses; you can legally marry yourselves! Even better, your pets can “sign” the marriage license with their paw print, making your special day even more unique.
How to Self-Solemnize
Colorado is one of the few U.S. states that allows self-solemnization, letting couples legally marry without an officiant or witnesses. You simply obtain a marriage license from any county clerk, fill it out, and sign it yourselves. This makes private, intimate ceremonies possible anywhere—on a mountain, beside an alpine lake, or in a quiet meadow. Self-solemnization lets couples create a meaningful, personalized wedding, and you can even have your dog “sign” as a witness for a fun, unique touch.
Intimate Stays in Colorado
In addition to Colorado’s breathtaking natural backdrops, there is also a variety of intimate venues that are perfect for an elopement. For couples who prefer a more private, all-in-one experience, these venues often provide a blend of comfort, convenience, and stunning scenery. Moreover, many offer personalized packages or on-site amenities, making the planning process even smoother.
Alta Lakes Observatory is a private backcountry cabin nestled by an alpine lake, offering stunning views of 13,000-foot peaks. You can view Bryce & Kyle’s Intimate Wedding at Alta Lakes here.
Dunton Hot Springs is a luxurious, rustic retreat with hot springs, cozy cabins, and stunning mountain views. You can view Erin & John’s Romantic Elopement at Dunton Hot Springs here.
Luxury Treehouse near Pikes Peak. A unique forest getaway with panoramic views, modern comforts, and a magical treetop setting that feels a world apart.
Little Red Treehouse (Lyons) A cozy, whimsical treehouse offering a romantic escape with mountain views and a serene, nature‑immersed atmosphere.
Colorado Elopement Vendors
Colorado is home to an incredible network of elopement vendors who specialize in crafting intimate, unforgettable weddings. From stunning floral arrangements and professional hair and makeup to a single-tier cake or a styled picnic in the mountains, there are so many ways to make your elopement uniquely yours. With so many passionate, experienced professionals across the state, your vision can become a reality with ease.
Over the years, I’ve had the joy of collaborating with some of Colorado’s finest vendors. Whether you’re looking for a florist, hair and makeup artist, stylist, cake designer, or even an adventurous guide to take you off the beaten path, I can help you connect with the right people. Together, we’ll bring your style, personality, and dream day to life in the perfect Colorado setting.
Elopement Activities in Colorado
You can make your elopement truly unforgettable by weaving activities into your day. Whether it’s hiking to a mountaintop for sunrise vows, taking a scenic gondola ride, enjoying a cozy picnic by a waterfall, or relaxing in a charming mountain cabin or B&B, there are endless ways to showcase your personalities. The beauty of eloping in Colorado is that your day can be fully customized, blending adventure, romance, and relaxation into one magical experience.
Fun Activities to Make Your Colorado Elopement Unforgettable:
– Take a sunrise hike to a scenic peak
– Canoe or paddleboard on a mountain lake
– Enjoy a cozy picnic under a beautiful waterfall
– Jeep to a secluded alpine spot
– Go rock climbing or via ferrata for an extra thrill
– Horseback ride through the mountains
– Share your first dance at sunset with panoramic views
– Camp overnight under the stars
What to wear for your mountain Elopement
Eloping in the mountains requires careful planning, especially when it comes to what you wear. Rugged trails, uneven terrain, and rapidly changing weather can impact comfort, mobility, and even your photos if your outfit isn’t suited for the environment. Choosing the right attire ensures you can move freely, stay comfortable, and look your best throughout your elopement. This guide will walk you through the key considerations for selecting wedding attire that is both practical and beautiful for your mountain adventure.
Elopement Packing Checklist
Being well-prepared is key to a magical Colorado elopement. A thoughtful packing checklist—from clothing and sturdy shoes to essential gear—lets you focus on the moments that matter, whether it’s a quiet sunrise, mountaintop laughter, or a private meadow moment. With the right items, you can embrace the day confidently, making your adventure effortless, joyful, and unforgettable.
You can view my full guide on the Essential Elopement Packing Checklist here.
What it’s like working with a Colorado elopement photographer
Specializing in Colorado elopements, I help couples navigate every step of their adventurous mountain day. From finding the perfect location to planning the timeline and activities, I make sure your day flows effortlessly. My goal is to create a personalized, unforgettable experience where adventure, romance, and Colorado’s natural beauty come together seamlessly. With my support, you can focus on each magical moment, turning your elopement into a stress-free, truly memorable adventure.
Benefits of working with a Colorado Elopement Photographer
Stress-Free Planning Process
Hiring a local photographer takes the guesswork out of your day, making the planning process easier and completely stress-free.
Knowledge of the Area
Guiding you to the perfect locations and timing for sunrise or sunset, while navigating trails, hidden spots, and sharing local expertise.
Trails and Weather Expertise
I plan for the best conditions so you get optimal light, access, and safety for your adventure-filled day.
Help with Travel & Accommodations
From travel logistics to choosing the perfect accommodations, I make sure your planning process is smooth and worry-free.
Colorado Elopement Photographer
Specializing in planning and documenting adventurous, heartfelt elopements, ensuring every breathtaking moment of your day is beautifully captured.
Includes everything in my Elopement Experience
• Full planning and expert support
• Unlimited guidance and resources
• Personalized list of amazing locations
• Curated vendor recommendations
• Fun activity recommendations
• Custom timeline for your day
• Professionally hand-edited images by me
• Secure online gallery
Based in Colorado. No travel costs or hidden fees of any kind.
Photographer, Planner + Guide
Hey lovers!
I’m Amy Bluestar –
Your Colorado Elopement Photographer
I’m Amy Bluestar, your Colorado elopement photographer creating one-of-a-kind, adventure-driven elopements for couples around the world.
At every step, my goal is the same, to create a day that’s completely yours, full of adventure, and one you’ll never forget.
Based in Telluride, I’ve traveled to 18 countries and counting.
“Amy is so much more than your elopement photographer!”
She’s your planner, advice giver, officiant, supporter and friend on the most important day of your lives. Amy is so down to earth and is truly the sweetest soul ever.
– Stehanie & Zach
Helping Couples Create Their
dream elopement experience
Choosing to elope is an exciting step, and it’s normal to feel a mix of emotions, not knowing exactly where to start, what will be the right fit for you, or how to figure out all the details. That’s why I’m here! My goal is to make the entire process not just stress-free, but fun, adventurous, and unforgettable, crafting a day you’ll never want to end.
With personalized guidance, intentional planning, and an emphasis on meaningful experiences, your elopement becomes more than a day, it becomes a deeply personal adventure, tailored to who you are as a couple and the love story you’re living.
View Real stories I’ve had the honor of planning and documenting
FAQ
Questions About Eloping in Telluride
Contact me
Fill out my quick contact form and I will get back within 2 business days.
Free Consult
We will get in touch and chat about your dream elopement.
plan your dream day
I’ll take care of every detail, crafting a day that’s entirely yours.
Get in touch
Thinking about eloping in Telluride? Reach out, I’d love to help!
Your photographer, planner & guide.
xo Amy Bluestar
Colorado Elopement Photographer
Specializing in planning and documenting adventurous, heartfelt elopements, ensuring every breathtaking moment of your day is beautifully captured.
Includes everything in my Adventure Elopement Experience
• Full planning and expert support
• Unlimited guidance and resources
• Personalized list of amazing locations
• Curated vendor recommendations
• Fun activity recommendations
• Custom timeline for your day
• Professionally hand-edited images
• Secure online gallery
Based in Colorado. No travel costs or hidden fees of any kind.
Your Colorado Elopement Photographer
Hey lovers!
I’m Amy Bluestar- your Colorado elopement photographer specializing in crafting one-of-a-kind elopements for couples who love adventure.
Every step of the way, my goal is the same: to create a day that feels completely yours and a story you’ll remember forever.
Crafting Dream Elopements
Choosing to elope is an exciting step, and it’s normal to feel a mix of emotions, not knowing exactly where to start, what will be the right fit for you, or how to figure out all the details. That’s why I’m here! My goal is to make the entire process not just stress-free, but fun, adventurous, and unforgettable, crafting a day you’ll never want to end.
With personalized guidance, intentional planning, and an emphasis on meaningful experiences, your elopement becomes a deeply personal adventure, tailored to who you are as a couple and the love story you’re living.
View Real love stories I’ve had the honor of planning and documenting
