Colorful Colorado is one of THE best elopement destinations in the world.
From stunning mountain views, to emerald green lakes; from dramatic desert landscapes to peaceful valleys; from lush forests to delightful vineyards. This beautiful state has it all.
In this article we’ve hand-picked the 21 best places to elope in Colorado, indicating our favorite scenic spots for each. We’ve covered breathtaking mountains, suggestive desert scenery, ski villages, city attractions and more.
We’ve also provided some tips on how to legally tie the knot, best time of year to elope, and the top five reasons why you should claim Colorado as your elopement destination. Finally, we can help you find the perfect photographer or videographer for your big day, too.
21 Best Places To Elope In Colorado
No matter your style or budget, whether you’re avid mountaineers or creatures of comfort, Colorado has something spectacular to offer any couple who wants to elope.
Read on to find your perfect location to tie the knot.
1. Steamboat Springs
Nestled in the Yampa Valley, just beyond Rabbit Ears Pass, Steamboat is the gem of northwest Colorado. This picturesque town is the perfect marriage between mountain resort and western ranching town, so there are plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy.
Steamboat is home to one of the largest natural hot springs in the world, making it a perfect place to relax and unwind with your new spouse. Check out Old Town Hot Springs, located near the boutique shops and restaurants downtown. Or drive out to Strawberry Park Hot Springs to truly connect with nature.
You will also be spoiled for choice when it comes to romantic accommodation. Whether you want mountain or valley views, there are numerous options. That includes luxury hotels, cozy cabins, cute Airbnbs, and rustic ranches.
Where To Elope In Steamboat Springs, Colorado
➡️ Buffalo Pass (or ‘Buff Pass’ as the locals say)
➡️ Hahn’s Peak
➡️ Sunset Happy Hour at the top of the gondola
2. Rocky Mountain National Park – Estes Park
Spanning over 400 miles of scenic mountain terrain, Rocky Mountains is one of the most popular national parks in the United States. With towering peaks, pristine alpine lakes, meadows full of wildflowers and an abundance of wildlife, it really is a nature-lover’s paradise.
There are numerous wedding venues to choose from throughout the park, including outdoor chapels, rustic cabins, and pristine lakeside beaches. Whether you’re looking for a simple ceremony or an elaborate affair, the Rocky Mountains are the perfect place to say “I do.”
As for accommodation, there are plenty of camping options available within the park. Or you could stay in one of the nearby towns such as Estes Park or Grand Lake.
Where To Elope In Rocky Mountain National Park
➡️ Horseshoe Park
➡️ Bear Lake
➡️ Sprague Lake
3. Silverthorne
Surrounded by untouched Wilderness areas and positioned beneath peaks reaching over 13,000 feet, Silverthorne offers incredible views of the Gore Range. And as the second largest town in Summit County, it’s a great base camp for excursions to other attractions nearby.
There are a number of great wedding venues in Silverthorne, including the stunning Sapphire Point Overlook. This scenic spot offers panoramic views of the Blue River Valley and the Continental Divide, making it a perfect place to exchange vows.
You can also find many great places to stay in Silverthorne, like the Silverthorne Lodge or the Silverthorne Bed & Breakfast. Be sure to stop in for a beer at the nearby Dam Brewery too!
Where To Elope In Silverthorne
➡️ Eagle Nest Wilderness
➡️ Blue River
➡️ Quandary Peak
4. Colorado Springs
There are many reasons why Colorado Springs is a great place to get married, including its stunning natural scenery, its abundance of outdoor activities, and its laid-back vibe.
This lively city is home to many great wedding venues, from outdoor chapels and gardens, to historic mansions and museums. But if you truly want to go all out, the iconic Broadmoor Hotel & Resort is the height of luxury and class.
Colorado Springs is also located close to a number of major cities, making it easy for guests to travel to and from the wedding. It even has its own airport, just a short drive from downtown.
Where To Elope In Colorado Springs
➡️ Garden of The Gods
➡️ Cheyenne Mountain State Park
➡️ Red Rock Canyon Open Space
5. Manitou Springs
Founded in 1872 as a “scenic health resort” for its natural mineral springs, Manitou Springs is located just a short drive north of Colorado Springs. Sitting at the base of Pikes Peak, Manitou’s unique natural setting makes it an ideal place to elope.
The rocky cliffs, winding rivers, and cascading waterfalls provide a stunning backdrop for exchanging vows, while the pitched roofs and charming Victorian buildings of downtown Manitou add a touch of fairy-tale romance.
Manitou Springs is also home to a variety of outdoor activities for active couples. From hiking and mountain biking to kayaking and rock climbing, there are plenty of ways to explore and create lasting memories.
Where To Elope In Manitou Springs
➡️ Pikes Peak
➡️ The Incline (for couples who want the ultimate fitness challenge!)
➡️ Cave of the Winds
6. Cripple Creek
Sitting at a staggering elevation of 9,494 feet, Cripple Creek is a historic gold mining town located just outside of Colorado Springs. The town has a rich history and a unique character that you won’t find anywhere else.
Although it’s now best known as a gambling destination with its 9 casinos, Cripple Creek still retains its old-west charm with its wooden sidewalks, Victorian buildings, and quaint main street.
There are a number of great places to get married in Cripple Creek, including the historic Butte Theater and the picturesque St. George’s Episcopal Church. And for couples who want a truly unique setting, the Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad offers weddings aboard an antique steam train!
Where To Elope In Cripple Creek
➡️ Phantom Canyon Road
➡️ Mountain View Adventure Park
➡️ Shelf Road
7. Ouray
A hidden gem in the San Juan Mountains of southwest Colorado, Ouray is often nicknamed the “Switzerland of America” due to its scenic mountain views and alpine setting.
Ouray is a hotspot for outdoor adventurers, with hiking, camping, ATV off-roading and rock-climbing opportunities abound. In particular, the Ouray Ice Park draws climbers from all over the world.
However, Ouray’s true hidden gem is its potential as a place to elope with its small-town feel and charming Victorian architecture. There are a variety of intimate indoor and outdoor venues, with the surrounding natural beauty as the perfect backdrop for your ceremony.
Where To Elope In Ouray
➡️ Bear Creek Falls
➡️ Red Mountain Pass
➡️ Ouray Hot Springs Pool
8. Silverton
A true diamond in the rough, Silverton is a small town with a big heart. With its unpaved Main Street and historic buildings, you will be transported back in time to the Wild West.
Silverton is surrounded by stunning scenery, from the towering peaks of the San Juans to the refreshing waters of Silver Creek. There are countless hiking trails nearby to explore, and the town is also known for its world-class skiing.
Silverton is also home to a variety of unique wedding venues, from rustic barns to outdoor chapels. It’s the perfect place to elope for couples looking for a unique and intimate setting.
Where To Elope In Silverton
➡️ Million Dollar Highway
➡️ Ice Lakes
➡️ Silverton Mountain
9. Mesa Verde National Park
Perhaps one of the most enchanting places to elope, Mesa Verde will leave you awe-struck with its dramatic sandstone cliffs and canyons. And its rich history and cultural significance will add an extra layer of meaning to your elopement
Whether you exchange your vows in front of the park’s iconic Mesa Arch or at the top of a towering ‘mesa’, you are sure to have a truly unforgettable experience.
And what could be more romantic than eloping to a place that was once home to the ancient Pueblo people? Mesa Verde spans over 52,000 acres, preserving 600 cliff dwellings and other archeological sites.
Where To Elope In Mesa Verde National Park
➡️ Mesa Top Loop Road
➡️ Mesa Verde Point Lookout Trail
➡️ Cliff Palace
10. Durango
Nestled in the Animas River Valley in southwest Colorado, Durango is surrounded by majestic mountains and offers stunning views.
On top of the numerous outdoor activities on offer, Durango is also home to a variety of unique shops, restaurants, and hotels, making it the perfect place to start your new life together.
Durango is convenient to many other attractions and is easily accessible for family and friends to join you on your special day. Compared to other locations, Durango is also one of the most affordable elopement destinations in Colorado.
Where To Elope In Durango
➡️ Purgatory Resort
➡️ Vallecito Lake
➡️ Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
11. Aspen
What could be more romantic than eloping in Aspen? This ski town is nestled in a picturesque valley, between the Rocky Mountains’ Sawatch Range and Elk Mountains.
There are numerous hiking trails and scenic viewpoints, making it the perfect place for an intimate outdoor ceremony. Additionally, Aspen is home to a number of top-notch restaurants and hotels, making it easy to find somewhere to celebrate after exchanging vows.
And finally, Aspen has a reputation for being one of the most welcoming and friendly towns in Colorado. It’s also conveniently located near Denver, making it easy to get to if you’re coming from out of state.
Where To Elope In Aspen
➡️ The Maroon Bells
➡️ Cascades at the Grottos
➡️ Castle Creek Valley
12. Vail
Vail is home to Vail Mountain, one of the largest ski mountains in North America. However, this world-renowned ski town has much more to offer than amazing skiing and snowboarding in the winter.
Vail Village is a pedestrian-friendly area with high-end shops and restaurants for the couples who prefer the finer things in life, while Beaver Creek Village has a more casual vibe.
Vail has something for everyone, making it the perfect place to elope. The Rocky Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for your ceremony, and there are plenty of places to stay, dine, and play.
Where To Elope In Vail
➡️ Gore Creek
➡️ Booth Falls
➡️ Piney River Ranch
13. Telluride
Hands down, Telluride is one of the best places in Colorado to elope! Not only is Telluride brimming with natural beauty, but it also has a very romantic and intimate feel.
The town is small and quaint, and there are plenty of places to hide away and enjoy some quality time together. The San Miguel River runs through the town, and the mountains provide a dramatic backdrop.
There are plenty of amazing locations for your ceremony, from a hidden clearing in the woods to a mountaintop overlooking the valley. And Telluride even has its own airport, making it super accessible.
Where To Elope In Telluride
➡️ Valley Floor Preservation
➡️ Blue Lakes
➡️ Ophir Pass
14. Breckenridge
Located in Summit County and sitting at an astonishing 9,600 feet, Breckenridge is Colorado’s highest ski resort. It’s the perfect place to elope for couples who crave adventure.
With its towering peaks and pristine forests, Breckenridge is a true winter wonderland. And during the summer months, the town comes alive with hiking trails, mountain biking trails, and rivers perfect for rafting.
Breckenridge is also home to some of the best restaurants in the state, making it the perfect place to indulge in a romantic dinner for two.
Where To Elope In Breckenridge
➡️ Breckenridge Ski Resort
➡️ Mohawk Lakes
➡️ Breckenridge Golf Club
15. Great Sand Dunes National Park
Home to the tallest sand dunes in North America, the Great Sand Dunes National Park is truly a unique place to elope. The park offers stunning views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, as well as the magnificent dunes themselves.
There are plenty of activities to enjoy in the park, such as hiking, camping, and horseback riding. But what really makes Great Sand Dunes a special place to elope is its seclusion. With only a handful of visitors each year, the park feels like a true hidden gem.
And did you know, you can actually sled down the dunes? This makes for a fun and memorable elopement experience that you and your guests will never forget.
Where To Elope In Great Sand Dunes National Park
➡️ Dunes Viewpoint
➡️ Music Pass
➡️ Zapata Falls
16. Frisco
The town is nestled at the base of Mt. Royal, offering sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. With the abundance of natural beauty and quaint downtown, Frisco is the perfect place to exchange vows.
Just 1 hour and 20 minutes’ drive from Denver, Frisco is a convenient place to elope. It’s also well-connected to other towns and points of interest around Colorado.
Frisco has a number of unique shops and restaurants, making it the perfect place to go for a romantic weekend getaway. In particular, this town is known for its German-style bars, like Prosit.
Where To Elope In Frisco
➡️ Loveland Pass
➡️ Frisco Bay Marina
➡️ Frisco Historic Park
17. Georgetown
This historic town is nestled at the base of 8,000 foot high peaks in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, making it a truly scenic place to elope.
Georgetown also has a rich history dating back to the late 1800s when it was a center for silver mining. Today, Georgetown is known for its quaint shops and restaurants, as well as its beautiful Victorian-style homes.
If you’re looking for a unique and romantic place to elope, Georgetown is definitely worth considering. There are a variety of intimate locations to choose from, and the town’s natural beauty is sure to provide an unforgettable backdrop for your special day.
Where To Elope In Georgetown
➡️ Georgetown Lake
➡️ Silver Dollar Lake
➡️ Georgetown Loop Railroad
18. Boulder
This college town is located at the base of the Rocky Mountains, offering stunning views of the mountains and the city. If you’re looking for somewhere with personality and charm, Boulder is the perfect place for you, with its thriving arts and culture scene.
Boulder is home to a beautiful outdoor amphitheater, ideal for an intimate ceremony. The city also offers a great variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it an ideal spot to both relax and celebrate.
And for those who love adventure, Boulder is located just a short drive from Rocky Mountains National Park and other famous landmarks. This makes it a great place for couples to explore all that Colorado has to offer after saying “I do”.
Where To Elope in Boulder
➡️ Boulder Falls
➡️ Chautauqua Park
➡️ Eldorado Canyon State Park
19. Denver
For the couples wanting to mix in some big city thrills into their mountain get-away, Denver is the perfect place to elope for fun-loving couples!
The city is full of exciting activities, from hiking and biking trails to museums and art galleries. Denver is also home to a lively nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and clubs to keep you entertained.
And, of course, the Rocky Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for your elopement. Whether you’re looking for an adventure-filled elopement or a more low-key affair, Denver has everything you need to make your special day perfect.
Where To Elope In Denver
➡️ Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater
➡️ Denver Botanic Gardens
➡️ “Kisbee on the Roof” bar at the Jacquard Hotel
20. Crested Butte
Crested Butte is still a hidden gem among Colorado towns, but is treasured by locals for its rustic and quiet charm. Surrounded by mountains on all sides, Crested Butte is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of big city life. It is the perfect place to host your Colorado elopement.
Against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains, Crested Butte is a romantic setting for an intimate ceremony. And with its quaint downtown scene paired with a diverse range of outdoor activities, there’s no shortage of things to do.
Where To Elope In Crested Butte
➡️ Copper Lake
➡️ Judd Falls
➡️ Peanut Lake
21. Dinosaur National Monument
Last but not least, Dinosaur National Monument is an exceptional place to elope. Located on the border between Colorado and Utah in the southeast region of the Uint Mountains.
Rich in history and mystery, the Monument is home to some of the world’s most impressive fossils, with dinosaur footprints and bones preserved in the rock.
With a wide variety of landscapes, from red rock canyons to secluded riverfront locations, Dinosaur National Monument is an attractive elopement destination for avid dinosaur enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Where To Elope In Dinosaur National Park
➡️ Harper’s Corner
➡️ Echo Park
➡️ Split Mountain
How To Legally Elope In Colorado
There are a few things you need to know in order to make your Colorado elopement legal. First, you’ll need to obtain a marriage license from the county clerk’s office. You can do this in person or by mail.
Once you have your license, you can get married anywhere in Colorado, as long as you have two witnesses present. There is no residency requirement, so couples from anywhere in the world can come to Colorado to elope.
There are no blood tests or waiting periods required, so you can get married on the spot! And Colorado offers both civil and religious ceremonies.
Best Time Of Year To Elope In Colorado
Colorado is a stunning state all year round, making it a popular destination for elopements. So, the best time of year to elope in Colorado really depends on your preferences.
If you’re looking for snow-capped peaks and cozy fires, then winter may be the best time for you. However, if you prefer milder temperatures and wildflowers in bloom, then summer or fall may be more ideal.
Keep in mind that Colorado can experience extreme temperatures throughout the year. For example, the average high in Denver in July is 90 degrees Fahrenheit, while the average high in January is only 42 degrees.
Reasons To Elope In Colorado
Wondering whether or not you should elope in Colorado? It’s a tough decision, I get it! And there are plenty of places to tie the knot around the world.
But, here are the top five reasons to elope in Colorado:
Reason #1: Colorado is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the country, including four uniquely beautiful national parks. There is no shortage of breathtaking backdrops for your elopement ceremony.
Reason #2: Colorado is home to a wide variety of outdoor activities, so you can incorporate your favorite hobbies into your elopement. Whether you love hiking, biking, or simply exploring new places, Colorado has something for everyone.
Reason #3: Colorado has a relaxed attitude when it comes to marriage licenses, making it a convenient place to elope. And there are a variety of unique venues available, from rustic cabins to luxurious mountain lodges.
Reason #4: There are plenty of romantic places to elope, from quaint mountain towns to scenic hot springs. Colorado is also a great place to honeymoon if you want to keep the hustle and bustle of every-day life at bay a little longer.
Reason #5: Eloping in Colorado means you’ll have access to some of the best wedding vendors in the business. With experience planning elopements in the state’s unique landscapes, they can help you create an unforgettable experience.
Colorado Elopement Photographers + Videographers
Looking for the best Colorado elopement photographer? Contact us at [email protected] and we’ll hook you up with information about packages and more.
Conclusion: 21 Best Places To Elope In Colorado
There are so many amazing places to elope in Colorado, it’s hard to narrow it down to just 21 destinations. We curated this list based on our first-hand experience of touring the state. Regardless of your style or budget, we want to help every couple make their dream elopement in Colorado come true.
With its stunning scenery and wide variety of outdoor activities, Colorado is the perfect place to create lasting memories on your special day. And with its relaxed attitude towards marriage licenses, eloping in Colorado is easy and convenient.
From mountain peaks and waterfalls to hot springs and hidden forests, there’s sure to be a place that’s perfect for your ceremony. And whether you’re looking for a rustic cabin or a luxurious mountain lodge, there’s a venue that will suit your needs.