HOW TO ELOPE IN COLORADO:
The Ultimate Colorado Elopement Guide
With its jagged mountain peaks, lush green valleys, meadows dotted with colorful wildflowers, dramatic waterfalls, and quiet tree groves that line miles of hiking trails, Colorado offers some of the most incredible scenery!
You know you want a wedding day that’s a little (or a lot) out of the ordinary —one that’s outside the box and outside the walls of a traditional venue; one that’s laid back and adventurous, stress-free and exhilarating, and perfectly, uniquely you. When you elope in Colorado, you’ll experience a one-of-a-kind adventure in some of the most breathtaking landscapes, but there are a few things you need to know first!
This Colorado Elopement Guide will explain how to elope in Colorado, and tell you everything you need to know to start planning. Here’s what’s inside:
- Reasons to Elope in Colorado
- The Best Time to Elope in Colorado
- The Best Places to Elope in Colorado
- Tips for Eloping in Colorado
- Colorado Elopement Packages
HOW TO ELOPE IN COLORADO:
The Ultimate Colorado Elopement Guide
With its jagged mountain peaks, lush green valleys, meadows dotted with colorful wildflowers, dramatic waterfalls, and quiet tree groves that line miles of hiking trails, Colorado offers some of the most incredible scenery!
You know you want a wedding day that’s a little (or a lot) out of the ordinary —one that’s outside the box and outside the walls of a traditional venue; one that’s laid back and adventurous, stress-free and exhilarating, and perfectly, uniquely you. When you elope in Colorado, you’ll experience a one-of-a-kind adventure in some of the most breathtaking landscapes, but there are a few things you need to know first!
This Colorado Elopement Guide will explain how to elope in Colorado, and tell you everything you need to know to start planning. Here’s what’s inside:
- Reasons to Elope in Colorado
- The Best Time to Elope in Colorado
- The Best Places to Elope in Colorado
- Tips for Eloping in Colorado
- Colorado Elopement Packages
REASONS TO ELOPE IN COLORADO
Before we dig into the nitty-gritty of how to elope in Colorado, let’s make sure a Colorado elopement is right for you! Here are just a few reasons why so many couples choose to elope amongst the Rocky Mountains.
Self-Solemnization in Colorado
Did you know that eloping couples travel from all over the country to tie the knot in Colorado? And there’s one big reason why they choose this state: Colorado is one of the few states that allows self-solemnization, and it’s the easiest state to elope in for a self-solemnizing ceremony.
Self-solemnization means that you and your partner can marry yourselves—you don’t need an officiant to perform a ceremony or to sign the papers. You can exchange vows and sign your marriage license, and be legally married! Without having to work out the logistics of finding an officiant and two witnesses, you’re free to have an elopement that’s exactly how you want it—a day that’s private and intimate, flexible and spontaneous, and allows you to tie the knot in whatever way feels right.
The Scenery in Colorado
This is probably the best reason to elope in Colorado—the incredible scenery, jaw-dropping landscapes, and endless natural beauty. There are easily accessible overlooks, long backpacking treks, and everything in between! So no matter what kind of scenery you’re looking for, you’ll find it in the mountain peaks, wildflower meadows, waterfalls, and forests of Colorado.
An Intimate, Stress-Free Wedding Day
Lisa’s a big believer that every couple deserves the wedding day of their dreams—unrestricted by expectations and unrestrained by traditions. She and her husband eloped, so she’s seen it from both sides of the camera! They said our vows surrounded by towering Redwoods and spent the day exploring a rocky beach. It was perfect, stress-free, and exactly what we wanted. Eloping gives you the freedom to begin your marriage in a way that reflects the two of you and allows you to be intentional and ensure that the focus is on doing what truly makes you happy.
Reasons to Elope in Colorado
Before we dig into the nitty-gritty of how to elope in Colorado, let’s make sure a Colorado elopement is right for you! Here are just a few reasons why so many couples choose to elope amongst the Rocky Mountains.
Self-Solemnization in Colorado
Did you know that eloping couples travel from all over the country to tie the knot in Colorado? And there’s one big reason why they choose this state: Colorado is one of the few states that allows self-solemnization, and it’s the easiest state to elope in for a self-solemnizing ceremony.
Self-solemnization means that you and your partner can marry yourselves—you don’t need an officiant to perform a ceremony or to sign the papers. You can exchange vows and sign your marriage license, and be legally married! Without having to work out the logistics of finding an officiant and two witnesses, you’re free to have an elopement that’s exactly how you want it—a day that’s private and intimate, flexible and spontaneous, and allows you to tie the knot in whatever way feels right.
The Scenery in Colorado
This is probably the best reason to elope in Colorado—the incredible scenery, jaw-dropping landscapes, and endless natural beauty. There are easily accessible overlooks, long backpacking treks, and everything in between! So no matter what kind of scenery you’re looking for, you’ll find it in the mountain peaks, wildflower meadows, waterfalls, and forests of Colorado.
An Intimate, Stress-Free Wedding Day
Lisa’s a big believer that every couple deserves the wedding day of their dreams—unrestricted by expectations and unrestrained by traditions. She and her husband eloped, so she’s seen it from both sides of the camera! They said our vows surrounded by towering Redwoods and spent the day exploring a rocky beach. It was perfect, stress-free, and exactly what we wanted. Eloping gives you the freedom to begin your marriage in a way that reflects the two of you and allows you to be intentional and ensure that the focus is on doing what truly makes you happy.
THE BEST TIME TO ELOPE IN COLORADO
Winter Elopements in Colorado
Colorado gets a lot of snow in the winter and, while this can create some logistical hurdles, like road closures and inaccessible trails, it also means that you can elope in a winter wonderland, with snow-covered peaks and trails. Most outdoor locations are much less busy this time of year, so you’ll get some privacy for your elopement as well!
Spring Elopements in Colorado
At lower elevations, spring in Colorado means mild temperatures, and blooming wildflowers as the snow melts. In the mountains, there is usually snow into May and June, and even July at higher elevations! This is a good time to elope to avoid the summer crowds, while still having a good chance at sunny weather.
Summer Elopements in Colorado
Summer is the most popular time to elope in Colorado, as the trails are (mostly) snow free. The weather in the mountains usually doesn’t get too toasty, but lower elevations can be pretty hot! While this is the best time for hiking in Colorado, there are usually more people out and about, and you’ll likely run into more crowds during the summer.
Fall Elopements in Colorado
Fall is possibly the best time to elope in Colorado! As the summer crowds begin to dissipate, you’ll have a little more privacy at your elopement location. In late September through early October, fall foliage colors the mountains in shades of red and yellow, creating a gorgeous landscape to explore in the crisp, cool autumn air. In the mountains, snow can start piling up starting in October, so be aware that high elevation hikes may require a backup plan.
The Best Time to Elope in Colorado
Winter Elopements in Colorado
Colorado gets a lot of snow in the winter and, while this can create some logistical hurdles, like road closures and inaccessible trails, it also means that you can elope in a winter wonderland, with snow-covered peaks and trails. Most outdoor locations are much less busy this time of year, so you’ll get some privacy for your elopement as well!
Spring Elopements in Colorado
At lower elevations, spring in Colorado means mild temperatures, and blooming wildflowers as the snow melts. In the mountains, there is usually snow into May and June, and even July at higher elevations! This is a good time to elope to avoid the summer crowds, while still having a good chance at sunny weather.
Summer Elopements in Colorado
Summer is the most popular time to elope in Colorado, as the trails are (mostly) snow free. The weather in the mountains usually doesn’t get too toasty, but lower elevations can be pretty hot! While this is the best time for hiking in Colorado, there are usually more people out and about, and you’ll likely run into more crowds during the summer.
Fall Elopements in Colorado
Fall is possibly the best time to elope in Colorado! As the summer crowds begin to dissipate, you’ll have a little more privacy at your elopement location. In late September through early October, fall foliage colors the mountains in shades of red and yellow, creating a gorgeous landscape to explore in the crisp, cool autumn air. In the mountains, snow can start piling up starting in October, so be aware that high elevation hikes may require a backup plan.
THE BEST PLACES TO ELOPE IN COLORADO
There are countless gorgeous Colorado elopement locations to choose from when you tie the knot! Here are a few ideas to get you inspired:
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most popular places to elope in Colorado, offering absolutely insane views of the peaks and valleys, waterfalls and meadows, and abundant wildlife.
Because of its popularity and the number of visitors, Rocky Mountain National Park only gives out a limited number of wedding permits each year, and there are pre-approved locations to choose from for your ceremony.
A National Forest
While the national park is Colorado’s most popular natural attraction, you can find more secluded trails and off-the-beaten-path elopement locations in the surrounding national forests. The White River National Forest, Roosevelt National Forest, San Juan National Forest are just a few of the options for Colorado elopement locations, each one offering unique, secluded mountain views and forest trails.
A Mountain Town
All over Colorado, you’ll find mountain towns that offer a gateway to the scenic beauty of the state, and a perfect elopement location! In the winter, you’ll find ski resorts and snowy adventures, and in the summer, you’ll find gorgeous hikes and lakeside views. Some of the best places to elope in Colorado include Aspen, Breckenridge, Telluride, and Crested Butte!
The Best Places to Elope in Colorado
There are countless gorgeous Colorado elopement locations to choose from when you tie the knot! Here are a few ideas to get you inspired:
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most popular places to elope in Colorado, offering absolutely insane views of the peaks and valleys, waterfalls and meadows, and abundant wildlife.
Because of its popularity and the number of visitors, Rocky Mountain National Park only gives out a limited number of wedding permits each year, and there are pre-approved locations to choose from for your ceremony.
A National Forest
While the national park is Colorado’s most popular natural attraction, you can find more secluded trails and off-the-beaten-path elopement locations in the surrounding national forests. The White River National Forest, Roosevelt National Forest, San Juan National Forest are just a few of the options for Colorado elopement locations, each one offering unique, secluded mountain views and forest trails.
A Mountain Town
All over Colorado, you’ll find mountain towns that offer a gateway to the scenic beauty of the state, and a perfect elopement location! In the winter, you’ll find ski resorts and snowy adventures, and in the summer, you’ll find gorgeous hikes and lakeside views. Some of the best places to elope in Colorado include Aspen, Breckenridge, Telluride, and Crested Butte!
TIPS FOR ELOPING IN COLORADO
An elopement comes with some different challenges than a traditional wedding, so here are some things to keep in mind and tips for eloping in Colorado!
Leave No Trace in Colorado
We humans often have a bigger impact than we realize on our environment. Anytime we explore outdoors, it’s important to keep conservation in mind. Being aware helps keep these places beautiful, and ensures that couples can continue having adventurous outdoor weddings!
Leave No Trace (LNT) is a set of 7 principles that helps guide how we explore the outdoors. You can read more about them here.
These are the 7 principles of LNT:
- Plan Ahead & Prepare
- Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces
- Dispose of Waste Properly
- Leave What You Find
- Minimize Campfire Impacts
- Respect Wildlife
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors
Getting the proper permits for your elopement is also a part of LNT, as it helps the park rangers ensure that the guidelines are being followed to protect the environment. The money from permits also goes to maintaining the parks, trails, and outdoor recreation.
Avoiding Crowds When You Elope in Colorado
Many of Colorado’s best places to elope are well known and popular, but you likely want some more privacy when you elope. One of the best ways to avoid crowds is to elope in the off-season, which, in most places, is winter (though spots near ski resorts are busy this time of year). You can also elope in late spring or early fall for less crowds and better weather!
No matter when you elope in Colorado, you can also avoid some of the crowds by planning your elopement for a weekday, and having your ceremony at sunrise. Hiring an experienced elopement photographer to help you find your elopement location is one of the best tips I have for eloping in Colorado, as I spend tons of time exploring the outdoors to find those hidden gems!
Tips for Eloping in Colorado
An elopement comes with some different challenges than a traditional wedding, so here are some things to keep in mind and tips for eloping in Colorado!
Leave No Trace in Colorado
We humans often have a bigger impact than we realize on our environment. Anytime we explore outdoors, it’s important to keep conservation in mind. Being aware helps keep these places beautiful, and ensures that couples can continue having adventurous outdoor weddings!
Leave No Trace (LNT) is a set of 7 principles that helps guide how we explore the outdoors. You can read more about them here.
These are the 7 principles of LNT:
- Plan Ahead & Prepare
- Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces
- Dispose of Waste Properly
- Leave What You Find
- Minimize Campfire Impacts
- Respect Wildlife
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors
Getting the proper permits for your elopement is also a part of LNT, as it helps the park rangers ensure that the guidelines are being followed to protect the environment. The money from permits also goes to maintaining the parks, trails, and outdoor recreation.
Avoiding Crowds When You Elope in Colorado
Many of Colorado’s best places to elope are well known and popular, but you likely want some more privacy when you elope. One of the best ways to avoid crowds is to elope in the off-season, which, in most places, is winter (though spots near ski resorts are busy this time of year). You can also elope in late spring or early fall for less crowds and better weather!
No matter when you elope in Colorado, you can also avoid some of the crowds by planning your elopement for a weekday, and having your ceremony at sunrise. Hiring an experienced elopement photographer to help you find your elopement location is one of the best tips I have for eloping in Colorado, as I spend tons of time exploring the outdoors to find those hidden gems!
COLORADO ELOPEMENT PACKAGES
I’ve been there — planning an elopement and feeling like I had no idea where to start, dealing with the fear of backlash for our decision to have a wedding day that was entirely focused on us and what we wanted, and all the unique challenges that eloping brought.
As an elopement photographer, I work with my clients to craft their elopement day from start to finish. I want to make sure the process is stress-free, the day is perfectly tailored to the two of you, and that you have the adventurous wedding day of your dreams! From helping you find the best place to elope in Colorado to recommending local vendors and places to stay to creating a timeline for the day, I’m here to be your guide, cheerleader, and adventure buddy.
Contact Lisa to learn more about Colorado elopement packages!
Colorado Elopement Packages
I’ve been there — planning an elopement and feeling like I had no idea where to start, dealing with the fear of backlash for our decision to have a wedding day that was entirely focused on us and what we wanted, and all the unique challenges that eloping brought.
As an elopement photographer, I work with my clients to craft their elopement day from start to finish. I want to make sure the process is stress-free, the day is perfectly tailored to the two of you, and that you have the adventurous wedding day of your dreams! From helping you find the best place to elope in Colorado to recommending local vendors and places to stay to creating a timeline for the day, I’m here to be your guide, cheerleader, and adventure buddy.
Contact Lisa to learn more about Colorado elopement packages!
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Adventurous Elopements Intimate Weddings Destination Sessions Worldwide
Based in Los Angeles, California
serving
Southern California Colorado New England Pacific Northwest + Beyond
contact me
check me out on instagram!
Adventurous Elopements Intimate Weddings Destination Sessions Worldwide
Based in Los Angeles, California
serving
Southern California Colorado New England Pacific Northwest + Beyond
contact me