How to Elope in Colorado

1. Choose your Photographer + Planner

2. Choose your location

3. Brainstorm elopement activities

4. Create a stress-free timeline

6. Obtain your permits

5. Book accommodations + vendors

7. Have the best day EVER!!!

Elopement planning can get chaotic with locations, timelines and all the activities throughout the day. Make sure you create a day that is set up for success with this helpful information!

More Elopement planning ideas

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Alexa | Elopement Photographer (@alexa_jadephotography)

Check out this Telluride Elopement Guide

Check out this Aspen
Elopement Guide

Check out this National PArk Elopement Guide

Check out this Crested Butte Elopement Guide

Telluride is my personal favorite location! It is often known as the Switzerland of the US and for good reason. Telluride offers unmatched mountain scenery stunning lodging opportunities. Tucked in a canyon, telluride features towering peaks, waterfalls, alpine meadows, and scenic gondola access to high-elevation ceremony locations. While more remote than other mountain towns, the quiet, upscale feel and breathtaking views make it ideal for couples seeking an intimate, adventurous elopement experience.

Aspen is home to world-famous locations like Maroon Bells, Independence Pass, Ashcroft Ghost Town, and expansive aspen groves that peak during fall color season. Aspen is ideal for couples seeking a scenic, elegant elopement experience with unforgettable backdrops. This area is the perfect blend of adventure and luxury with access to stunning hiking trails and upscale accommodations. The landscape in the Aspen area is iconic Colorado.

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the more popular areas in Colorado because it offers dramatic, protected alpine scenery and a true wilderness experience. The park features must see locations like Trail Ridge Road, Bear Lake, Sprague Lake, and sweeping tundra views with towering peaks in every direction. Many ceremony sites are easily accessible without the need for a long hike. For those seeking more adventure, the park features plenty of longer hikes to more private locations.

Crested Butte is more of a laid-back mountain town with some of the most colorful and varied scenery in the state. Known for its wildflowers, dramatic peaks, and scenic alpine lakes, the area includes iconic locations like Kebler Pass, Gothic Valley and other hidden gems. Many ceremony spots are accessible by short hikes or scenic drives, especially during summer and fall. With fewer crowds than larger resort towns, Crested Butte is ideal for couples seeking a relaxed, scenic elopement with a strong sense of adventure.

I would say that Breckenridge has the most accessible locations without sacraficing the views or the experience. I have a handful of locations in the Breckenridge area that require minimal to no hiking. Some of these locations are even drive up locations. So if you, your partner or even a family member has mobility issues, theres a beautiful location tucked in the mountains near Breckenridge.

Of all the locations in Colorado, my personal favorites are some of the hidden gems that I have found throughout my time as a Colorado photographer. Generally speaking though, Telluride is all around my favorite place. Telluride is the perfect blend between luxury and rugged adventure.

Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs is by far the most crowded elopement location in Colorado. Since this location does not require a permit, it is not uncommon to share a view point with 3 other eloping couples. If you value privacy, DO NOT elope at Garden of the Gods.

When you think Colorado elopement, most people are picturing the Maroon Bells in Aspen Colorado. Between the tower peaks, the quaking aspen trees and the way the mountains reflect on the lake, it's no wonder people flock to the Maroon Bells for their wedding day.

Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park Colorado take the cake here! It is not uncommon to see elk, deer, or moose while staying in this area. Of all the elopements I have done in the Estes Park area, there are only a handful of times where I didn't have an incredible wildlife encounter. So if you want to experience the wildlife both in town and out in the mountains, definitely consider Estes Park/Rocky Mountain National Park.

Check out this Breckenridge Elopement Guide

Breckenridge combines stunning alpine scenery with easy accessibility. Just over an hour from Denver, this mountain town offers alpine lakes, mountain views, and forested trails with many ceremony locations close to town. The area has a straightforward permitting process for outdoor elopements and a large network of experienced local vendors, making it easy for couples to plan a beautiful, stress-free elopement year-round.

Breckenridge

Telluride

Aspen

ROcky Mountain NP

Crested Butte

Best Places to Elope In Colorado

My Favorite Places

my two cents?

Best location for accessibility:

Best Chance for wildlife encounter:

Most Iconic:

Best Chance for wildlife encounters:

Most Crowded:

My Personal Favorite:

Check out these Epic Colorado Locations

want more ideas?

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Alexa | Elopement Photographer (@alexa_jadephotography)

More Epic Locations

Check out this Colorado Elopement Location Guide

Check out this post for more Information on CO Marriage laws

Colorado marriage laws are generally straightforward, allowing both residents and non-residents to marry in the state. Making Colorado a popular place for couples to marry. Couples must obtain a marriage license from a Colorado county clerk. Both parties must be at least 18 years old to marry without consent.

A marriage license is valid for 35 days, and Colorado allows couples to self-solemnize without an officiant or witnesses. Same-sex marriages are fully recognized in Colorado.

Colorado Marriage Laws

First, you’ll apply for a Colorado marriage license through the county clerk and recorder’s office. Many counties allow online applications and appointments, though both partners typically need to appear together (in person or virtually, depending on the county). Marriage licenses in Colorado generally cost between $30.

Once you have your license, you can choose how and when to self-solemnize. This can be as simple or as ceremonial as you want. Some couples exchange private vows, others write letters, perform a small ceremony, or simply sign the license together in a meaningful place. There’s no “right” way to do it, this is entirely up to you.

After your elopement, you’ll return the signed license to the county clerk within the required time frame (usually 35 days). Once processed, your marriage is legally recorded, and you can request certified copies.

One of the most unique and meaningful parts of eloping in Colorado is the ability to self-solemnize your marriage. This special option allows couples to legally marry themselves—no officiant, no witnesses, and no formal ceremony required. It offers an incredible amount of freedom, flexibility, and intimacy, making it a perfect fit for couples who want a wedding day that feels intentional, personal, and entirely their own.

For many couples, self-solemnizing is about freedom and authenticity. Without an officiant or formal structure, your elopement can feel more intentional and emotionally intimate. You get to focus solely on each other, without performing for anyone else or following traditions that don’t resonate with you.

Self Solemnizing is ideal for private or adventure elopements, where bringing an officiant isn’t practical, couples who want a deeply personal vow exchange, those who prefer a quiet, meaningful moment over a formal ceremony or non-religious or non-traditional couples

Logistically, self-solemnizing simplifies planning. There’s one less vendor to coordinate, more flexibility with timing, and fewer moving parts on the wedding day, especially in remote locations or sunrise/sunset ceremonies.

Even though you don’t need an officiant, having a photographer present can be incredibly valuable. Your photographer can help you choose a meaningful location, guide you through the timeline, and ensure your self-solemnization is documented. Many couples find that this creates a perfect balance of privacy and support on their elopement day.

If you value intentional moments, privacy, simplicity, and personal meaning, self-solemnizing in Colorado may be the perfect fit for you. It allows you to create a wedding day that feels true to your relationship without pressure, expectations, or other formalities.

At the end of the day, self-solemnizing is about one thing: marrying your partner in a way that feels intimate, and entirely your own.

Absolutely! You can self-solemnize without any guests or invite family and friends if you’d like. The presence of guests doesn’t change the legality of your marriage. Self-solemnizing simply means you don’t need an officiant or witnesses.

Self-solemnizing means that you and your partner sign your own marriage license, rather than having an officiant or witnesses sign it for you. You are legally authorizing your own marriage. There is no requirement for a specific ceremony format, spoken vows, guests, or anyone else to be present. Whether you exchange vows on a mountaintop at sunrise or quietly read letters to each other in a forest, your marriage is just as legally binding as any traditional wedding. The only legal requirement is that both partners sign the marriage license correctly and return it within the required timeframe.

Self- Solemnizing in Colorado

What does it mean to Self-Solemnize?

Why do couples Self-Solemnize?

Can We Self-Solemnize and Have Guests?

Self-Solemnizing and Photography

Should I Self-Solemnize?

How to Self- Solemnize in Colorado?

Your stress-free elopement day starts with having the necessary permits

The short answer... It Depends...

Whether you need a permit to elope in Colorado depends entirely on the location you choose. Public land which includes state parks, national forests, city parks, and scenic overlooks typically require a special use or wedding permit if you plan to have guests, set up decorations, or reserve a specific area to have just for you. Fees for these permits can range from $25 to $300, and some parks require that applications be submitted weeks in advance, so it’s important to plan ahead.

Even smaller, low-traffic areas may have regulations or restrictions, so checking with the local land management office or park authority is always a smart move. I always find it best to contact the local ranger stations to get accurate information about a specific location.

Private properties, cabins, resorts, and vacation rentals usually do not require a permit, but they may have their own rules regarding setup, guest limits, or additional fees. Keep in mind that getting a permit is not just about legality, permits ensure you secure your spot in a particular area which helps in avoiding any surprises on the big day. By planning ahead, you can focus on the fun parts of your elopement: picking your dream location, exchanging vows, and planning all the activities for the day.

If obtaining permits and all the legal elements of elopement planning sounds overwhelming to you, allow me to help you. I navigate the permit process for all of my couples to ensure we have all the necessary permits for the wedding day. This is part of creating a stress-free elopement day experience.

Do you need a Permit to Elope in Colorado?

The best time of year to elope in Colorado

Colorado is a year-round elopement destination, with each season offering its own unique adventure, and the best one for you depends on the kind of day you want to have. Whether you’re dreaming of warm mountain adventures, cozy fall colors, snowy winter landscapes, or vibrant spring flowers, Colorado has the perfect backdrop for your elopement. Whatever you love to do on your wedding day, there’s a perfect season waiting for you!

Spring offers a beautiful in-between season, with snow-capped mountains and the first hints of warmer days. You’ll find quieter locations before summer crowds arrive. The weather can shift depending on elevation. While spring requires flexibility, it’s perfect for couples who want a more secluded, adventurous experience.

Pros: fewer crowds, snow capped mountains, cooler temps

Cons: potential for mud, road closures, unpredictable

Eloping in fall offers crisp air, rich autumn colors, and a quieter pace in the mountains. The aspens turn gold and while daylight hours are shorter and weather can shift quickly, fall is ideal for couples who value moody landscapes, cozy layers, and a naturally stunning backdrop.

Pros: fall colors, cooler temperatures, soft golden light

Cons: shorter daylight hours, weather changes quickly

Summer brings longer days, accessible mountain locations, and Colorado at its most vibrant. Trails and high-elevation spots are fully open, wildflowers are in bloom, and the weather is more predictable. Summer is ideal for couples who want a wide range of location options warmer weather.

Pros: long daylight hours, wildflowers,

Cons: More crowds, afternoon thunderstorms, less privacy

**My favorite season for elopements**

Eloping in winter brings about, snow-covered mountains and a slower atmosphere. With fewer crowds and dramatic scenery, winter offers a stillness you won’t find any other time of year. While colder temperatures and limited access require extra planning, winter is perfect for couples looking for cozy moments and are willing to embrace the season.

Pros: fewer crowds, snow covered landscape, cozy feeling

Cons: limited location access, weather related travel issues

Spring: (April- May)

Fall: (September- October)

Summer: (June-August)

Winter: (November-March)

Looking for more?

Colorado Seasonal Guide

To make it easy, I’ve broken down the typical costs for every must-have on your elopement day. From hair and makeup to rings, flowers, and photography. Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy, intimate day or a luxe, all-out celebration, this guide will help you plan a day that’s uniquely yours without any surprises at checkout.

Budget often means compromise, and you shouldn't have to compromise on your wedding day. So many couples think that by eloping, they should be saving money and choose to have a budget elopement, but by having a budget elopement, you are creating a budget experience.

When you choose to have a budget elopement, you are deciding that the day is not worth the money. Many couples typically regret having a budget elopement because they focused so much on keeping costs low instead of creating an experience that was intentional and meaningful to them.

Hair & Makeup: $0 (DIY)
Marriage License: $30
Lodging: $300 (2 nights in a budget hotel, or small Airbnb)
Flowers: $50 (DIY bouquet or local florist)
Photography: $3,500 (2–3 hours, local photographer or amateur)
Officiant: $50–$150
Permits: $0–$100 (depending, or free locations)
Rings: $100–$300
Wedding Attire: $600

Hair & Makeup: $400 (Professional Stylist)
Marriage License: $30
Lodging: $600 (2 nights in a private cabin or nice airbnb)
Flowers: $300
Photography: $3,700 (Half day coverage from a professional)
Officiant: $200
Permits: $100-$500 (depending)
Rings: $600
Wedding Attire: $1,500

Hair & Makeup: $500 (Professional Stylist)
Marriage License: $30
Lodging: $1,000 (2 nights in a luxury resort or private villa)
Flowers: $800
Photography: $7,000 (Professional Full Day Coverage)
Officiant: $400
Permits: $500-$1,000 (depending)
Rings: $2,000
Wedding Attire: $4,000

Mid- Range Elopement Budget

Planning Tip

Budget Elopement

Total: $4,880

Total: $8,730

Total: $16,530

Luxury Elopement Budget

How much Does it Cost to Elope in Colorado?

Building a timeline that is built around adventure, intention, and the freedom to do things your way is probably the most important thing you can do for your elopement day. From early-morning hikes and alpine sunrises to midday exploring, private vows, and golden-hour celebrations, your timeline is designed to follow the landscape, the light, and your energy. Season, weather, travel time, and location all play a role, but the goal stays the same: creating a day that feels unrushed and captures your sense of adventure.

1:00 PM: Getting ready at cozy lodge and first look
2:00 PM: Jeeping adventure into the mountains
3:30 PM: Arrive at trailhead
3:40 PM: Hike to private ceremony location
4:45 PM: Ceremony and vow exchange
5:15 PM: Post-ceremony portraits
6:15 PM: Sunset on an overlook sipping your favorite drink
7:30 PM: Blue hour portraits
8:15 PM: Campfire celebration with pizza and S'mores
9:00 PM: Stargazing under the night sky

9:00 AM: Slow morning and coffee
10:00 AM: Travel to waterfall trailhead
10:30 AM: Waterfall hike
11:30 AM: Waterfall portraits
12:00 PM: Picnic by the waterfall
1:00 PM: Coverage ends

1:00 PM Getting ready at lodging
2:00 PM Travel to alpine lake
2:30 PM Paddle board adventure on the lake
4:00 PM Lakeside portraits and relax time
4:45 PM Ceremony and vow exchange near the water
5:15 PM Post-ceremony portraits
6:15 PM Sunset picnic by the lake
7:30 PM Blue hour portraits
8:15 PM Campfire celebration (where permitted)
9:00 PM Stargazing under the night sky

3:00 PM: Meet at trailhead for final prep
3:30 PM: Short scenic hike to ceremony location
4:15 PM: Ceremony and vow exchange
4:45 PM: Post-ceremony portraits
5:30 PM: Explore nearby viewpoints and candid portraits
6:30 PM: Golden hour portraits
7:00 PM: Coverage ends

Multi- Day Colorado Elopement timeline

Day One: 8 hours of coverage

I offer full day elopement packages that are 8 hours. Here is what a full day could look like

I offer half day elopement packages that are 4 hours. Here is what a half day could look like.

While I do offer "Half Day Elopement" experiences, I find that 4 hours just is not enough time for you to have the adventure of a lifetime and to capture it in a way that is stress free. Eloping is about freedom, so why would you put your day on a timer?

Half-day coverage turns what should be a relaxed, intentional experience into a condensed production. You end up rushing through portraits, cutting locations, or skipping golden hour because you didn't book enough time. Full-day coverage allows the day to unfold naturally. No pressure. No clock. Just space to experience your wedding day as it is... a once in a lifetime expereince.

I offer multi-day elopement packages that are 12 hours total and ca be split up however you'd like. Here is what a full day could look like

Day 2: 4 hours of coverage

Full Day Colorado ELopement Timeline

half Day Colorado ELopement Timeline

Planning Tip

Colorado Elopement Timelines

Colorado Elopement Packages

Kara + Conrad's Full Day National Park Elopement

Emma + Brian's Quiet Half-Day Elopement

Cassondra + Robert's Full Day Off-Roading. Elopement

real couples

When choosing your wedding dress, make sure you find a dress that blends your personal style, with the day's activities. Lightweight, breathable fabrics and flexible styles make it easier to hike, explore, and fully enjoy the day without feeling restricted. Accessories like comfortable shoes, layers, veils, or hats can add personality and your own unique style to your elopement day.

For an adventure elopement in the mountains, choosing the right suit is all about balancing style and practicality. Lightweight, breathable fabrics and a flexible fit allow for movement on trails and throughout the day. Consider layering with a vest or jacket that can be removed as temperatures change. A well-planned suit ensures you look sharp while staying comfortable and ready for whatever your Colorado adventure brings.

Hiking boots are one of the most important things to pack for your adventure elopement, especially in Colorado. Even short walks to scenic locations can involve uneven ground, rocky trails, snow, or mud. Well-broken-in hiking boots also help prevent blisters and discomfort on your wedding day. Make sure you have worn your shoes before the big day in order to, stay comfortable throughout the day. Choosing function over fashion allows you to focus on the experience.

Layers are essential for an adventure elopement, especially in Colorado. Here the mountain weather can change in minutes. Packing base layers, mid-layers, and outer layers allows you to adjust for sun, wind, or sudden temperature drops without sacrificing comfort or style. Think lightweight jackets, sweaters, scarves, shawls or faux furs. These are easy to add or remove as needed. Smart layering keeps you warm on chilly mornings and comfortable for the rest of the day.

A backpack is a must-have for an adventure elopement, keeping all your essentials close at hand throughout the day. It’s perfect for carrying extra layers, water, snacks, cameras, and any personal items you might need throughout the day. Choosing a comfortable, durable pack with secure compartments ensures everything stays organized and accessible, whether you’re hiking to a remote ceremony spot or wandering through scenic trails.

With a full day of adventures planned, having easily portable, non-perishable snacks like trail mix, granola bars, or fruit keeps you fueled without slowing you down. Staying hydrated is equally important, especially at higher elevations where the air is drier and activity levels are higher. Bringing enough water and quick bites ensures you feel energized, comfortable, and ready to fully enjoy every moment of your elopement day.

Comfort items are small but essential that keep your elopement day enjoyable and stress-free. Items like chapstick, sunglasses, spare socks, hand warmers, lightweight blankets, hats, sunscreen, wet wipes, bug spray, and even deoderant can make a big difference when dealing with sun, wind, cold mornings, or muddy trails. These little extras help you stay comfortable, protected, and prepared for unexpected conditions, so you can focus on the experience.

Adventure gear is key for a Colorado elopement that involves hiking or exploring. Things like sturdy boots, a reliable backpack, weather-ready clothing and a first aid kit are essential before going out to explore. Depending on your plans, things like hiking poles, ice cleats, gloves, rain jackets, or head lamps might be necessary to safely tackle your day. Being properly equipped allows you to focus on the adventure and your connection, rather than worrying about logistics.

Dress + Accessories

Suit

Hiking Boots

Layers

Backpack

Snacks + Water

Comfort Items

Ceremony Essentials

Adventure Gear

What to wear and things to Pack for your Colorado Elopement

Check out this Elopement Outfit Guide for more info

This isn’t a one-size-fits-all kind of experience...

It’s slow mornings, honest vows, and moments that feel deeply personal. It’s about the freedom to choose a day that moves at your pace and unfolds in a way that feels natural. No timelines to rush, no boxes to check. Just an intentional experience that honors your connection and your personal adventure.

Work with me

common questions about eloping

Frequently Asked Questions

Avoiding crowds on your elopement day is all about timing, location, and planning. Choosing less popular or off-the-beaten-path spots helps with privacy. Hiking a short distance from main trailheads can also make a huge difference in finding a private area to share vows or a quiet moment. Planning your ceremony for early morning, late afternoon, or even during the week can also minimize crowds. Finally, working with a local guide or photographer (ME!) who knows hidden gems can ensure you get breathtaking views without the tourist traffic.

Yes! You can absolutely include guests in your elopement day if you want. That said you don't have to if you don't want to. Many couples who include guests invite a small group of close family or friends to witness the vows and celebrate afterward. The beauty of an elopement is that it’s flexible, so you can create an intimate experience that feels personal and meaningful, whether it’s just the two of you or a handful of loved ones.

One thing to be mindful of if you do decide to bring guests, the more guests you include, the more limited your options become in regards to location. Some locations only allow a certain number of people on the land, so just consider this when planning your day.

I get this question A LOT, so let me set the record straight, you do not need to be a natural in front of the camera to get beautiful photos. Adventure elopements are all about capturing real moments, laughing, exploring, holding each other, and enjoying your day. Your elopement day is not about stiff poses. Couples hire me to capture the day in a beautiful natural way, I help guide my couples with fun prompts that create a relaxed environment for you to be yourself with your partner. Couples who have told me they are “awkward” end up with the most genuine, and beautiful images. Just take a look at all the images on this page, none of them are of professional models, just two people naturally in love.

Personally, I LOVE rainy elopements, so if it rains on your elopement day, it’s not the end of the world. Rain or challenging weather can actually make for a beautiful and memorable experience (and pictures, see left). Many couples embrace the weather and adapt: bring umbrellas, or rain jackets. If hiking or outdoor locations aren’t safe, I work with my couples to create a backup plan like a covered area, cabin, or lodge. Rainy weather can create epic skies, reflections, and other moments that make your day feel unique. Flexibility and preparation are key to turning a rainy day into a magical one.

Not at all! Your elopement day does not need to include hiking to be an adventure. Adventure can mean a scenic drive to a remote overlook, kayaking on a mountain lake, riding horses through a meadow, taking a hot air balloon flight, or even exploring a less-visited town or canyon. Hiking is just one way to access incredible locations, but any activity that gets you out of the traditional wedding box and into a place or experience that feels like YOU counts as an adventure.

Do we have to hike to have an adventure elopement?

Can we include guests in our elopement day?

What happens if it rains on our elopement day?

How do we prepare for high altitude?

We're awkward, will we still get good photos?

How do we avoid crowds?

Absolutely! Including your dog in your elopement can make the day even more personal and memorable. Many couples bring their dogs along for outdoor ceremonies, photos, and other adventures. However, it is important to plan ahead. Make sure your location allows pets, bring leashes or harnesses, pack water and snacks for them, and consider how they’ll handle hiking, weather, or crowds. With a little preparation, your dog can be an exciting part of your special day.

Preparing for high altitude is key to staying safe and enjoying your Colorado elopement. Start by giving yourself time to acclimate. Arrive a day or two early if possible, especially for elevations above 8,000 feet. Stay well-hydrated, eat balanced meals, and avoid alcohol or heavy exercise in the first 24 hours. Wearing layers and sun protection is essential, since higher elevations mean stronger sun exposure and quickly changing weather patterns. Listen to your body: shortness of breath, dizziness, or headaches are signs to rest. With a bit of preparation, you can fully enjoy the adventure without letting altitude affect your day.

Eloping doesn’t mean giving up traditions. Eloping is the freedom to do what you want. That said, you can incorporate any meaningful elements that feel right for you. Whether it’s exchanging rings, reading personal vows, having a first look, or including cultural or family rituals. Your elopement can be just as rich with symbolism as a traditional wedding. The beauty is that you get to choose which traditions matter most and shape them in a way that fits your adventure, location, and personal preferences.

Can we include our dog in our elopement?

Can we still include traditions even if we elope?

Work with Me

Happy Adventuring my friend!!

I'm Alexa, and I've been crafting, exploring and capturing elopement expereinces for my couples since 2019.

I'm a bit biased, but I truly believe that Colorado is the most beautiful place in the world making it the perfect destination for your elopement

Elopement planning can be stressful, which is why I have created this detailed guide so that you can create an elopement day that is stress-free and unapologetically yours.

How to Elope in Colorado

How to Elope in Colorado

you've decided to Elope in Colorado, but where do you even start?

Perfer the Hightlights?