So you’ve decided you want to elope in Colorado! This state truly has it all- with 300 days of sunshine, access to mountains, forests, and alpine lakes. You can create the elopement of your dreams out in nature. My clients always tell me the hardest part about planning your Colorado elopement is deciding where to elope. Most people want to have a day out in nature, and still have access to food and drinks to celebrate. Luckily, Colorado has a series of mountain towns that provide that access. I’ll go over the pro’s and con’s of my favorite places to elope so you can decide what best fits your vibe and vision!
Eloping in Breckenridge Colorado
Breckenridge is one of my favorite spots to point couples to elope at when coming from out of state! Breckenridge is only an hour and a half from the Denver Airport, making it very accessible and easy to get to. This is a great spot too if you plan on having friends and family fly in for your elopement!
Another reason to elope in Breckenridge is that there are a ton of food and drink options. These spots are within 30-45 minutes of where you are likely eloping. This makes it easy to head back after a day of adventuring to celebrate with good food!
Due to the accessibility from Denver, Breckenridge can also become crowded in the summer and winter months. This means you will need to plan ahead with reservations and lodging. Hikes are busier than in more remote areas, and if you plan to elope on the weekends you can expect to encounter other people in these areas. As your elopement photographer I have a series of locations that are off the beaten path to ensure your day remains as quiet and intimate as possible!
If you are interested in eloping in Breckenridge check out my recent blog post on eloping in Breckenridge!
Eloping in Buena Vista Colorado
Buena Vista is the place to go if you are huge into adventure, and want a variety of views! When eloping in Buena Vista, you will be able to spend the day in many different ways. You can hike to an alpine lake, white water raft, go leaf peeping, or say your vows on a mountain top. With how close all these spots are- you can have multiple adventurous activities planned for your elopement.
Buena Vista is a spot that’s ‘off the beaten path’ – being one of the least crowded mountain towns, most spots you head to (especially on a weekday) won’t be crowded. If you value privacy on your elopement day, Buena Vista could be the place!
The downside of Buena Vista is that the town itself is still relatively small. With fewer food options for celebrations. You will still be able to find some hidden gems such as the bar Deerhammer for post-elopement celebrations!
Check out my recent blog post on How to Elope in Buena Vista for inspiration!
Eloping in Telluride
Nestled in the San Juan Mountain Range, Telluride boasts some of the best views and nature in Colorado. Reflecting the landscape of Switzerland – it looks otherworldly with waterfalls, mountain views, rivers, and bright blue alpine lakes.
The town itself is huge in comparison to other mountain towns! There are endless food and drink options. My personal favorite elopement drink is an espresso martini from The Phoenix Bean! Telluride gives you the ability to have a celebration in a larger town just steps away from some of the best nature in the US.
The only downfall of Telluride is the crowds, as well as the distance from the Denver Airport. The drive is about six hours – but well worth it!
Eloping in Steamboat Springs
As stated in the name – Steamboat Springs is home to some of the best hot springs in Colorado! A great way to relax after an adventure elopement in the area. Steamboat itself is less crowded than some of the other mountain towns as it’s 3 hours from Denver, so you will encounter fewer day hikers and crowds in the area.
Steamboat is also great for a skiing elopement in the winter! When choosing where to elope in Colorado, especially the winter months, Steamboat should be at the top of your list! With a built up town of year-round locals, you will find great food and drinks to celebrate after your day!
Eloping in Crested Butte
Crested butte is the best place for a fall elopement! With the largest aspen grove in Colorado, there is no shortage of color pop. Crested Butte is also cozy, and so quiet. If you are looking for an intimate and peaceful elopement day, this might be the place.
Crested Butte also boasts some of the best alpine lakes and mountain views in Colorado. Although further from Denver and some of the other mountain towns, the 4 hours it takes to reach Crested Butte is worth the solitude.
Considering where to elope in Colorado? Check out Colorado Elopement Photographers and I can help figure out which mountain town and location is best for your elopement!
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