If you’ve stumbled across this blog, that likely means you’re looking for the best Colorado elopement locations. Lucky for you, I have quite the list of locations that you should consider for your elopement!
As a Colorado elopement photographer, I’ve had the pleasure of capturing couples whether that’s for their engagement, weddings, or intimate elopements at many of these locations. Colorado has no shortage when it comes to breathtaking backdrops, so let’s get into these 30 locations that you should consider!
If you’re on the hunt for beautiful lakes, lush forests, and picturesque mountains, then Aspen, Colorado is another stunning location to add to your list of considerations. Located in central Colorado, Aspen not only offers plenty of natural beauty in itself, but you’ll also find a quaint little downtown area to explore delicious restaurants, boutique shops, and cozy little places to stay during your time here!
Did you know that Aspen is home to the most photographed mountains in North America, known as The Moon Bells? It’s a sight to see and I definitely recommend if you choose Aspen as your Colorado elopement location! Aside from that, Aspen offers plenty of experiences and things to do such as art museums, music, culture, shopping, skiing and snowboarding opportunities!
Key Takeaways: Beautiful lakes, forests, and mountains, luxury accommodations.
Fun Things to Do: Exploring Maroon Bells, dining, and shopping in downtown Aspen.
Unique Features: Scenic beauty and upscale amenities.
Vibe: Luxurious and scenic, perfect for couples who enjoy both nature and luxury.
Beaver Creek is also another one of the many stunning Colorado elopement locations to consider! It has beautiful Rocky Mountain views, outdoor activities galore, and just like with Vail, you’ll have easy access to other major cities. Beaver Creek can also be a more affordable option when it comes to eloping. The cost of living is lower, and there are more budget friendly accommodation options as well!
Key Takeaways: Beautiful mountain scenery, luxury lodging, and excellent skiing.
Fun Things to Do: Skiing and snowboarding at Beaver Creek Resort, hiking trails, ice skating in Beaver Creek Village, and attending performances at the Vilar Performing Arts Center.
Unique Features: Upscale, family-friendly atmosphere, with intimate village charm and top-notch ski facilities.
Vibe: Cozy and refined, ideal for couples looking for a more intimate, luxurious experience in the mountains.
Black Canyon of The Gunnison National Park is located in southwestern Colorado in the Gunnison River Basin. It’s actually one of the deepest canyons in the United States, and is the narrowest portion of the Gunnison River! If you’re looking for adventure with beautiful views and rugged cliffs, then Black Canyon of The Gunnison National Park is perfect for you!
Here you’ll find fun things to do such as scenic drives, hiking, fishing, and stargazing! If you’re into Astronomy, check out the Black Canyon Astronomy Festival that happens every year. Black Canyon also offers two different campgrounds, so if you’re looking for accommodations, consider staying overnight for extra fun!
Key Takeaways: Rugged cliffs, scenic drives, and outdoor activities.
1452Fun Things to Do: Hiking, fishing, and exploring the park’s dramatic landscapes.
Unique Features: Steep cliffs and breathtaking views.
Vibe: Adventurous and dramatic, perfect for couples seeking an exhilarating and scenic elopement location.
Boulder provides both mountain and city experiences with locations like Lost Gulch Overlook and Boulder Falls. It has a vibrant art and culture scene, numerous outdoor activities, and a range of breweries. The Flatirons and Chautauqua Park offer stunning views, while Pearl Street Mall provides shopping and dining options.
Is Boulder calling out to you? Check out my “Ultimate Boulder Colorado Elopement Guide“. You’ll learn everything you need to know about eloping in Boulder!
Key Takeaways: Mountain and city experiences, vibrant art and culture scene, and outdoor activities.
Fun Things to Do: Exploring the Flatirons, Chautauqua Park, Pearl Street Mall, and numerous breweries.
Unique Features: Combination of urban and natural settings.
Vibe: Vibrant and eclectic, perfect for couples who enjoy both urban life and nature.
Get Inspired: Check out Paola & Jessica’s “Intimate Lost Gulch Overlook Elopement in Boulder, Colorado” for a breath-taking April Deluxe Elopement!
Breckenridge, Colorado offers stunning mountain scenery and a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, and whitewater rafting. Its charming town provides boutique shops, breweries, and dining experiences, making it a perfect spot for adventurous couples. The town’s rich history and vibrant culture add to the appeal, with historic buildings and art galleries to explore. With it’s beautiful mountains and picturesque backdrops, it also makes it onto my list of 30 epic Colorado elopement locations! Check out these Breckenridge tips before your visit!
Key Takeaways: Stunning mountain scenery, charming town, and a variety of outdoor activities.
Fun Things to Do: Hiking, skiing, whitewater rafting, and exploring historic buildings and art galleries.
Unique Features: Historic charm with modern amenities.
Vibe: Adventurous and charming, perfect for couples who love both history and outdoor activities.
Is Buena Vista calling out to you? Check out my “Buena Vista Elopement Guide: Stunning Locations and Essential Planning Tips“. You’ll learn everything you need to know about eloping in Buena Vista!
Buena Vista, Colorado, nestled in the Collegiate Peaks, is known for its beautiful landscapes and quaint town atmosphere. Surrounded by mountains and the Arkansas River, it offers activities like whitewater rafting, hot springs, hiking, and mountain biking. The town’s charming streets and local eateries provide a cozy backdrop for a memorable elopement.
Key Takeaways: Beautiful landscapes, quaint town atmosphere, and adventure sports.
Fun Things to Do: Whitewater rafting, hot springs, hiking, and mountain biking.
Unique Features: Surrounded by the Collegiate Peaks and the Arkansas River.
Vibe: Adventurous and relaxed, ideal for nature-loving couples.
Colorado Springs offers iconic spots like Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods. It provides a variety of activities and picturesque backdrops. The Broadmoor hotel offers luxury accommodations, and the city has numerous parks and cultural attractions. It also has plenty of activities and things to do.
Check out “Eloping at Garden of the Gods: The Ultimate Guide for a Perfect Colorado Springs Wedding” if you are interested in celebrating your big day surrounded by red rocks and gorgeous mountain views!
Key Takeaways: Iconic spots like Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods.
Fun Things to Do: Hiking, visiting the Broadmoor hotel, and exploring cultural attractions.
Unique Features: Variety of scenic and cultural experiences.
Vibe: Diverse and scenic, ideal for couples looking for both adventure and relaxation.
Crested Butte is perfect for spring or summer elopements surrounded by wildflowers and fall foliage. Winter offers world-class skiing. The town’s colorful Victorian buildings and lively arts scene add a unique charm, and Kebler Pass provides breathtaking views.
If you think Crested Butte may be perfect for you, then don’t miss out on my “Crested Butte Elopement Guide“. You’ll learn everything you need to know about eloping in this stunning Mountain town in Colorado!
Key Takeaways: Stunning wildflowers, fall foliage, and world-class skiing.
Fun Things to Do: Skiing, hiking, and exploring Kebler Pass.
Unique Features: Colorful Victorian buildings and lively arts scene.
Vibe: Artistic and picturesque, perfect for couples who appreciate vibrant settings.
Cripple Creek is a historic mining town about an hour and a half from Colorado Springs. Famous for its gold rush past, this charming town offers a blend of rustic charm and rich history, perfect for couples looking to combine adventure with a bit of vintage flair for their elopement.
Key Takeaways: Historic charm, mountain views, and a unique gold mining town atmosphere.
Fun Things to Do: Ride the Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad, explore historic mines such as the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine, or take a scenic drive through Phantom Canyon for breathtaking views and adventure-filled wedding photos.
Unique Features: Cripple Creek’s Victorian architecture, historic sites, and surrounding rugged landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for a rustic and adventurous elopement.
Vibe: Historic and adventurous, ideal for couples who love exploring the past while embracing the beauty of the Colorado mountains.
Denver provides city vibes with mountain views and numerous wedding venues. The city’s parks, such as City Park and Washington Park, provide beautiful settings for outdoor ceremonies. With plenty of places to stay, great food and drink options, and things to do, Denver is sure to check off all of your boxes!
Key Takeaways: City vibes with mountain views and numerous wedding venues.
Fun Things to Do: Exploring parks, dining, and visiting cultural attractions.
Unique Features: Combination of urban and natural settings.
Vibe: Urban and versatile, ideal for couples who love city life and nearby nature.
Estes Park, Colorado is nestled in the Rocky Mountains and offers mountain, forest, and lake settings. It has numerous wedding venues and outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife viewing. The Stanley Hotel adds a historic charm, and the town offers a variety of shops and restaurants.
Key Takeaways: Mountain, forest, and lake settings, numerous wedding venues.
Fun Things to Do: Hiking, wildlife viewing, and visiting the Stanley Hotel.
Unique Features: Gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park.
Vibe: Rustic and romantic, perfect for couples who love mountain settings.
Florissant is a hidden gem nestled in the mountains about an hour west of Colorado Springs. Known for its wide-open spaces and the stunning Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, it offers couples a peaceful and natural setting for elopements, surrounded by ancient petrified trees and meadows of wildflowers.
Key Takeaways: Unique natural landscapes, tranquil environment, and proximity to the Florissant Fossil Beds.
Fun Things to Do: Explore the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument for its prehistoric charm, hike trails through Pike National Forest, or visit nearby Mueller State Park for stunning views and serene picnic spots. These places offer countless opportunities for nature-filled photo sessions.
Unique Features: Florissant’s fossilized redwood trees and rich prehistoric history provide one-of-a-kind backdrops for wedding photos, making it a distinctive choice for couples who love nature and history.
Vibe: Quiet and rustic, ideal for couples seeking a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path elopement experience with a connection to ancient natural history.
Known as “Vintage Georgetown” because it’s charming, unique, and has a lot of history behind it. It was originally established in 1895 and still has quite a bit of preserved architecture and historic significance.
You’ll love Georgetown if you like history and the beauty that Colorado has to offer. With activities such as train tours, hiking, historic museums and sites, and great places to eat and drink, you definitely won’t get bored if you choose to elope in Georgetown! You’ll also find plenty of charming accommodations as well.
Key Takeaways: Rich history, charming architecture, and scenic beauty.
Fun Things to Do: Taking a ride on the Georgetown Loop Railroad, visiting the Hamill House Museum, exploring the historic downtown area, and hiking Guanella Pass. You can also tour the Hotel de Paris Museum.
Unique Features: Well-preserved Victorian architecture, historic sites, and scenic mountain valley views. The town’s rich history as a former mining hub is evident in its many museums and historic buildings.
Vibe: Historic and relaxing, ideal for couples who appreciate a blend of history and natural beauty, with a touch of small-town charm.
Grand County provides activities like fishing, skiing, and hiking, with picturesque towns like Grand Lake offering charming accommodations and dining. It serves as a gateway to the western side of Rocky Mountain National Park.
Key Takeaways: Scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and charming small towns.
Fun Things to Do: Boating on Grand Lake, visiting Hot Sulphur Springs, skiing at Winter Park Resort, and exploring the quaint town of Granby.
Unique Features: Access to the less crowded west entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park and beautiful lakes.
Vibe: Laid-back and scenic, perfect for couples looking for a mix of outdoor adventure and small-town charm.
Grand Junction, Colorado offers vistas, mountain scenery, and outdoor activities like guided tours and hiking. From fun activities such as guided tours, salons, spa’s, shopping, hiking, and so much more, you’re sure to have a memorable time in Grand Junction for your Colorado elopement! You’ll also find delicious food and drink options, as well as great accommodations in the area from hotels, motels, B&B’s, and camping/RV opportunities!
Key Takeaways: Scenic vistas, outdoor activities, and wineries.
Fun Things to Do: Hiking in the Colorado National Monument, wine tasting, and guided tours.
Unique Features: Red rock formations and local wineries.
Vibe: Scenic and adventurous, ideal for couples who enjoy exploring natural landscapes and local wines.
Great Sand Dunes National Park is located in southern Colorado and is one of the biggest sand dunes in the world! It sits on over 13,000 acres, and is such a beauty. This location can be very accessible and also offers tons of amenities! Their are specific elopement sites within the park where you’ll be surrounded by beautiful views of the dunes and even mountain views!
From activities such as hiking, sandboarding, creek swimming, horseback riding, and so much more, you’re sure to have the best time! They even have accessible sand chairs so if you or a family member want to join in on the fun, you/they can! Extend your stay with camping or lodging in or near the park!
Key Takeaways: Unique sand dune landscapes and diverse ecosystems.
Fun Things to Do: Sandboarding, hiking, and stargazing.
Unique Features: Vast sand dunes and stunning night skies.
Vibe: Adventurous and unique, perfect for couples looking for a one-of-a-kind elopement location.
You may consider Idaho Springs, Colorado for your elopement because it’s a charming little town that doesn’t lack in epic views. Just like many of these Colorado locations, you’ll find plenty to do for adventure sports and outdoor activities like biking, hiking, and more! This is also a Colorado location known for it’s hot springs, which is definitely something I recommend checking out during your time here! You’ll also find great accommodation options as well.
Key Takeaways: Natural hot springs, adventure sports, and historic charm.
Fun Things to Do: Soaking in the Indian Hot Springs, exploring the Argo Gold Mine and Mill, whitewater rafting on Clear Creek, and hiking St. Mary’s Glacier. You can also visit the Phoenix Gold Mine for a guided tour.
Unique Features: Historic mining town with natural hot springs, a variety of outdoor activities, and a rich Gold Rush history.
Vibe: Adventurous and rejuvenating, perfect for couples who love a mix of relaxation and thrilling outdoor experiences.
Indian Peaks Wilderness offers a remote setting with lush greenery, mountain views, and numerous trails and lakes. Popular spots include Brainard Lake and Long Lake. The area provides a serene and untouched natural environment perfect for an intimate elopement.
With over 73 thousand acres , 50 lakes, and 28 trails, you and your partner are sure to have a great time exploring this beautiful Colorado location. If you love hiking, fishing, and camping, you can also make it a little vacation!
Key Takeaways: Remote setting with lush greenery and mountain views.
Fun Things to Do: Hiking, fishing, and exploring Brainard Lake.
Unique Features: Serene and untouched natural environment.
Vibe: Peaceful and secluded, perfect for couples seeking privacy.
Leadville offers a laid-back atmosphere with mountains, forests, and activities like off-roading and historic tours. The town’s mining history and high-altitude location add to its unique charm. You’ll find activities such as off-roading, hunting, historic tours, winter biking, and tons of other activities to keep you and/or your guests entertained! You’ll have access to restaurants close by and different kinds of accommodations like B&B’s motels, camping, etc.!
Key Takeaways: Laid-back atmosphere, mountains, and historic sites.
Fun Things to Do: Off-roading, historic tours, and exploring the town’s mining history.
Unique Features: High-altitude location and rich mining history.
Vibe: Relaxed and historic, ideal for couples who appreciate a laid-back setting with historical significance.
Mesa Verde National Park is known for its ancient ruins and cliff dwellings, providing a unique and intimate setting. The park’s archaeological sites offer a glimpse into the history and culture of the Ancestral Puebloans. With activities such as star gazing, cliff dwelling tours, cultural dances, and so much more, you’re sure to have a great time exploring everything this park has to offer during your time here! You can also choose to camp out! Check out more about having your intimate wedding/elopement here.
Key Takeaways: Ancient ruins and cliff dwellings.
Fun Things to Do: Exploring archaeological sites and learning about Ancestral Puebloans.
Unique Features: Historic cliff dwellings and cultural significance.
Vibe: Historic and intimate, ideal for couples who appreciate history and culture.
Ouray is known as the “Switzerland of America” with its Victorian architecture and hot springs, making it a picturesque and relaxing destination for elopements.
Key Takeaways: Victorian architecture, natural hot springs, and dramatic mountain scenery.
Fun Things to Do: Soaking in Ouray Hot Springs, exploring Box Canyon Falls Park, visiting an epic Ice Park hiking the Perimeter Trail, and visiting the Ouray County Museum.
Unique Features: The town’s charming Victorian-era buildings, numerous natural hot springs, and proximity to stunning alpine scenery.
Vibe: Historic and relaxing, perfect for couples seeking a quaint town atmosphere with a touch of adventure.
Ouray and Silverton, Colorado are both located in Southwestern Colorado in the San Juan Mountains and only about 20ish miles from one another. Both are beautiful Colorado elopement locations within the mountains!
Rocky Mountain National Park offers majestic mountain views, lush forests, and clear lakes. Popular spots include Bear Lake and Trail Ridge Road.
Key Takeaways: Majestic mountain views, lush forests, and clear lakes.
Fun Things to Do: Hiking, wildlife viewing, scenic drives on Trail Ridge Road, and exploring Bear Lake.
Unique Features: Diverse ecosystems, from montane to alpine, and iconic peaks like Longs Peak.
Vibe: Tranquil and majestic, ideal for couples seeking an immersive nature experience.
Silverton, with its historic sites and mountain views, offers a unique blend of adventure and history, ideal for an unforgettable elopement. While it’s a bit smaller than Ouray, it’s still unique in itself and offers so much beauty and charm!
Key Takeaways: Historic charm, mountain views, and adventurous activities.
Fun Things to Do: Riding the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, exploring the Mayflower Mill and Old Hundred Gold Mine Tours, off-roading on the Alpine Loop, and hiking Ice Lake Basin.
Unique Features: Historic mining town atmosphere, rugged mountain landscapes, and thrilling off-road trails.
Vibe: Historic and adventurous, perfect for couples who enjoy exploring the past while seeking outdoor excitement.
Steamboat Springs offers hot springs, skiing, and a range of outdoor activities. It has a rich western heritage and beautiful mountain scenery. The Yampa River provides opportunities for fishing and tubing, and the town’s hot springs offer relaxation. There are other activities such as horseback riding, guided UTV tours, and even fishing cruises! This location is definitely an outdoor lovers paradise!
Key Takeaways: Hot springs, skiing, and rich western heritage.
Fun Things to Do: Soaking in hot springs, skiing, and tubing on the Yampa River.
Unique Features: Natural hot springs and western charm.
Vibe: Relaxed and adventurous, ideal for couples who appreciate outdoor activities and relaxation.
Telluride offers breathtaking vistas and activities like skiing, hiking, and visiting Dunton Hot Springs which is a 1800’s ghost town turned luxury resort. The historic town, with its preserved Victorian architecture, provides a charming backdrop. Bridal Veil Falls and the surrounding San Juan Mountains add to the scenic beauty. Telluride offers tons of winter activities and summer activities including trails, skiing, waterfalls, and so much more!
Key Takeaways: Breathtaking vistas, skiing, and historic charm.
Fun Things to Do: Skiing, hiking, and visiting Bridal Veil Falls.
Unique Features: Preserved Victorian architecture and scenic beauty.
Vibe: Historic and scenic, ideal for couples who love mountain towns.
The drive from Morrison to Fairplay along US 285 is a stunning journey through some of Colorado’s most scenic landscapes, making it a perfect backdrop for an adventurous elopement. As you travel through charming mountain towns like Conifer, Bailey, and Jefferson, the route winds through lush forests, expansive meadows, and dramatic mountain vistas. Along the way, you’ll pass by sweeping views of the Rocky Mountains, picturesque rivers, and the rolling plains of South Park, offering endless opportunities for beautiful, intimate wedding photos.
This drive is not only scenic but also serene, providing a peaceful escape from the city while remaining accessible. The diverse landscapes along the route offer a variety of elopement locations, from the dense forests near Bailey to the open alpine views near Jefferson and Fairplay. The natural beauty, combined with the sense of solitude and tranquility, makes this stretch of highway an ideal choice for couples seeking a memorable, nature-filled elopement experience.
Along the US 285 route from Morrison, Colorado to Fairplay, Colorado, you’ll pass through the following towns and cities:
Vail, Colorado is a great location for your elopement because it’s a beautiful mountain town with villages that offers stellar views, many lodging options, and tons of activities! It’s easily accessible to other cities in the Rocky Mountains, making it conveniently located.
Key Takeaways: Stunning mountain views, world-class skiing, and luxury accommodations.
Fun Things to Do: Skiing and snowboarding at Vail Ski Resort, hiking and biking trails, shopping in Vail Village, and enjoying gourmet dining.
Unique Features: Picturesque alpine village, extensive ski terrain, and high-end amenities.
Vibe: Elegant and active, perfect for couples seeking a luxurious mountain experience with plenty of outdoor activities.
Vail and Beaver Creek are only about 15ish minutes apart from one another. Both towns offer world-class skiing and luxury accommodations.
Westcliffe, located in the picturesque Wet Mountain Valley, is known for its stunning mountain views and small-town charm. With the dramatic Sangre de Cristo Mountains as a backdrop, this town offers an ideal setting for couples seeking a serene and scenic elopement experience. Westcliffe is also one of the few designated Dark Sky Communities, making it a perfect location for capturing breathtaking night sky wedding photos under the stars.
Key Takeaways: Stunning mountain views, peaceful valley setting, and opportunities for dark-sky photography.
Fun Things to Do: Take a scenic drive to Bishop’s Castle, enjoy stargazing at the Smokey Jack Observatory, hike trails like Rainbow Trail in the Sangre de Cristo range, or explore the charming historic town with its local shops and cafes.
Unique Features: Westcliffe’s designation as a Dark Sky Community makes it a rare and magical spot for couples who want stunning starry night photography as part of their wedding experience.
Vibe: Tranquil and intimate, Westcliffe is perfect for couples seeking an elopement surrounded by majestic mountain views and a peaceful, rural atmosphere.
Winter Park, Colorado offers cozy lodges and activities like skiing at Winter Park Ski Resort and scenic gondola rides. Summer activities include mountain biking and hiking. The Fraser River Trail provides a beautiful path for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.
Key Takeaways: Cozy lodges and year-round outdoor activities.
Fun Things to Do: Skiing, mountain biking, and scenic gondola rides.
Unique Features: Winter Park Ski Resort and the Fraser River Trail.
Vibe: Cozy and adventurous, ideal for couples who enjoy winter sports and mountain activities.
Woodland Park, known as “The City Above the Clouds,” offers eloping couples stunning mountain views and a serene ambiance. Located just an hour from Denver, this town combines easy access with a romantic small-town feel, making it a perfect destination for an intimate elopement surrounded by Colorado’s natural beauty.
Key Takeaways: Beautiful mountain views, charming small-town atmosphere, and outdoor adventures.
Fun Things to Do: Hiking scenic trails like Catamount Falls and Ring the Peak, exploring Pike National Forest, wildlife viewing, and enjoying local breweries or cozy dining spots.
Unique Features: Woodland Park’s unique location offers sweeping views of Pikes Peak, abundant wildlife, and year-round outdoor activities, making it ideal for couples who love adventure and nature.
Vibe: Relaxed and intimate, perfect for couples who want a nature-filled, peaceful elopement with easy access to both adventure and comfort.
My hope is that you’ve found this location guide helpful in your search for the best Colorado elopement locations for you and your partner to consider! There is no wrong choice, it depends on what you as a couple envision your day to be. Each and every one of these locations is unique and beautiful in their own way. Need help deciding what is best for you and your love story? I offer Elopement packages with Partial Planning that includes no travel fees for all of Colorado and I help you figure out what area suits your Elopement needs best! Check out my Elopement Packages or Fill out a Contact Form to get booked for your AMAZING Colorado Elopement! Hehe 🙂