Eloping in Colorado offers couples the chance to celebrate their love amidst some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country. From the towering Rockies to tranquil lakesides, Colorado provides a diverse range of stunning settings perfect for your intimate elopement. If you’re dreaming of a romantic, unforgettable ceremony in nature’s embrace, you’re in the right place. Join us as we explore the top places to elope in Colorado, where your love story can unfold in the most beautiful and meaningful way.
1. Crested Butte
Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Crested Butte is a hidden gem perfect for your elopement. Known as the “Wildflower Capital of Colorado,” this charming town boasts vibrant summer meadows and transforms into a snowy wonderland in winter. The first time I visited, I was so overwhelmed by its beauty that I started crying; it truly is that magical. With a 3.5-hour drive from Colorado Springs, Crested Butte feels more remote than other towns, adding to its unique charm.
Crested Butte is an outdoor recreation paradise, renowned for mountain biking, hiking, trail running, and fall leaf-peeping when the aspens change colors. Although it’s a small town with a population of 1,600 and limited vendors, restaurants, and wedding venues, its small-town charm and historic downtown filled with quaint shops and cozy cafes make it special. From mountaintops to tranquil alpine lakes and lush meadows, Crested Butte offers breathtaking locations for an unforgettable elopement.
2. Buena Vista
Buena Vista is one of my favorite towns for elopements, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and charming local flavor. The views of the Collegiate Peaks are truly breathtaking, providing a stunning backdrop for your special day. The area boasts some of the best hiking trails and off-roading experiences in the state, making it ideal for adventurous couples. Buena Vista itself is a cute, walkable town that hasn’t become overly touristy, preserving its unique charm. It’s also home to two of my favorite hotels in Colorado: The Surf Hotel and The Inn at Railroad + Main, which offer cozy and stylish accommodations.
Situated off Highway 285 rather than the busier I-70, Buena Vista is quieter and more serene than many other towns in the region. While this means there are fewer vendors and venues, planning in advance and being open to a weekday elopement can easily solve this. Plus, its proximity to Colorado Springs means many vendors are willing to travel there for a reasonable fee. With its incredible views, outdoor adventures, and quaint town atmosphere, Buena Vista is an excellent choice for an unforgettable elopement.
3. Breckenridge
When I say Breckenridge, I’m really referring to all of Summit County—but as locals know, Breck tends to get all the attention from out-of-state visitors. This stunning region stretches from Copper Mountain in the west to Keystone in the east, and from Silverthorne in the north to Breckenridge in the south. The whole area is a hot spot for outdoor elopements and micro-weddings, thanks to its breathtaking landscapes and myriad of activities.
Summit County is just a two-hour drive from Colorado Springs, making it easily accessible—though it’s best to avoid weekends during ski season due to traffic. Its proximity to the metro area means you’ll have access to a wide range of vendors, while the abundance of restaurants, venues, and lodging ensures you’ll find everything you need for your special day. Despite its convenience, Summit County still offers that quintessential Colorado mountain experience, with picturesque views and a charming atmosphere perfect for creating unforgettable elopement memories.
Summit has loads of locations to choose from for self-solemnizing elopements without guests, but for micro-weddings the options are more limited. Many venues around here are targeted toward bigger weekend weddings, while small venues like Sapphire Point can feel overly busy, but there are hidden gems I know of as a photographer.
4. Boulder
Boulder is renowned for its stunning mountain views, including the iconic Flatirons, which make for an unforgettable backdrop for your elopement photos. The city is also home to beautiful parks, such as Chautauqua Park and Boulder Creek Path, providing romantic settings for your ceremony and celebration.
Aside from its natural beauty, Boulder is a hub of cultural and culinary experiences. The Pearl Street Mall, with its charming boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants, offers endless opportunities for post-elopement celebrations and dining.
For adventurous couples, Boulder boasts a plethora of outdoor activities, from hiking and rock climbing in the Flatirons to kayaking in Boulder Creek. You can also explore nearby attractions like Eldorado Canyon State Park or take a scenic drive up Flagstaff Mountain for panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
5. Aspen
If you’re aiming for a luxurious elopement, Aspen is a top contender. The hotels, restaurants, and scenic views are simply unparalleled. However, this level of elegance often comes with a hefty price tag. The more guests you invite, the more your wedding budget may skyrocket, but there are also plenty of venues and restaurants perfect for intimate ceremonies and micro-weddings.
If you’re eloping without guests, Aspen offers a plethora of options. You can explore hiking trails, go off-roading, indulge in backcountry skiing, or simply enjoy a scenic drive to Maroon Bells, one of the best views in the country accessible via a paved road.
For couples seeking a more local experience in the Aspen area, I recommend considering nearby towns like Basalt or Carbondale. These towns offer a quieter, more affordable alternative without the same tourist crowds, allowing you to enjoy Aspen’s beauty in a more intimate setting.
I hope this is helpful as you decide on the perfect location for your elopement. This list scratches the surface of what is available in the Colorado. I detail many more of my favorites in a Colorado location guide, exclusive for booked clients.
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I’m based in Colorado Springs, CO + love to travel to these top elopement spots. If you’re looking for an elopement photographer who has spent their time hiking local trails and driving mountain passes to explore the best locations (and because it’s fun, duh), I’d love to chat about how I can help you plan and capture the perfect adventurous elopement in my favorite place in Colorado. Check out my collections, then fill out an inquiry form to schedule a video chat!
