100 Best Elopement Spots in Colorado: Your Ultimate Guide to Intimate Weddings in the Rockies
- Colleen Hunter
- 5 days ago
- 6 min read
Are you dreaming of an intimate elopement surrounded by breathtaking mountain views, wildflower meadows, or dramatic red rock formations? Colorado offers some of the most stunning and diverse landscapes in the country, making it the perfect place to say “I do” in a way that’s uniquely you.
Whether you want a high-alpine lake, a desert dune backdrop, or a cozy rustic lodge, this guide covers the 100 best elopement locations in Colorado. Each carefully chosen for its beauty, privacy, and vibe.
Why Choose Colorado for Your Elopement?
Colorado is a top destination for couples seeking adventure, natural beauty, and unforgettable memories. With over 50 mountain peaks above 14,000 feet, vast national parks, and charming small towns, the options are endless. Plus, Colorado’s mix of seasons means you can find the perfect setting year-round — from snowy winter wonderlands to vibrant fall foliage.
Top Elopement Locations in Colorado
Mountain & Alpine Lake Elopements
Ideal for couples dreaming of classic Rocky Mountain scenery — towering peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and fresh mountain air.
Rocky Mountain National Park — Iconic spots like Bear Lake and Sprague Lake offer serene settings with easy access.
Maroon Bells (Aspen) — One of Colorado’s most photographed spots, perfect for sunrise ceremonies.
Independence Pass — Dramatic alpine views with convenient roadside pull-offs.
Twin Lakes — Tranquil lakeside with stunning Sawatch Range vistas.
Crested Butte — Colorado’s wildflower capital, ideal for vibrant summer ceremonies.
Mount Princeton Hot Springs — Relax with mountain views and soothing hot springs near Buena Vista.
Hanging Lake — Famous turquoise waters and cascading waterfalls in Glenwood Canyon.
Mount Evans Scenic Byway — Highest paved road in North America with epic vistas.
St. Mary’s Glacier — Accessible alpine glacier and lake for adventurous couples.
Echo Lake — Serene alpine lake near Mount Evans, perfect for intimate ceremonies.
Crystal Lakes — Hidden gem with tranquil waters and forest surroundings.
Barr Trail (Pikes Peak) — Scenic trail offering sweeping summit views.
Snowmass Village — Alpine village with lush meadows and mountain scenery.
Monarch Pass — Accessible mountain pass known for stunning views and wildflowers.
Walden Lake — Peaceful lake near Rocky Mountain National Park with reflective views.
Lake Dillon Marina — Lakeside spot with panoramic mountain backdrops perfect for sunset vows.
Eldora Mountain Resort — Cozy mountain lodge surrounded by forest.
Mount Elbert Trail — The highest peak in Colorado, perfect for adventurous elopements.
Blue Mesa Reservoir — Colorado’s largest body of water, ideal for lakeside ceremonies.
Sky Pond (Rocky Mountain National Park) — Alpine lake with waterfall backdrops via moderate hike.
Mount of the Holy Cross — Famous mountain peak with iconic cross-shaped snowfield.
Lost Lake (Estes Park) — Serene mountain lake surrounded by forest.
Aspen Groves — Vibrant golden aspens perfect for fall ceremonies.
Turquoise Lake (Leadville) — Large mountain lake surrounded by peaks.
Mueller State Park — Wildflower meadows and forest trails near Woodland Park.
Mount Sherman — One of Colorado’s 14ers, less crowded and very scenic.
Mount Princeton — Hot springs and mountain backdrops near Buena Vista.
Red Rock & Desert Vibes
For couples who love bold, colorful backdrops and dramatic sandstone formations.
Garden of the Gods (Colorado Springs) — Towering sandstone formations that feel straight out of a dream.
Roxborough State Park — Less crowded, with striking red rock ridges.
Red Rocks Park & Amphitheater — Unique rock formations combined with iconic venue vibes.
Paint Mines Interpretive Park — Colorful clay formations and open landscapes.
Eldorado Canyon State Park — Golden canyon walls and rushing river.
Devil’s Head Lookout — Panoramic views after a short hike.
Golden Gate Canyon State Park — Forested mountains and fall colors.
Lost Gulch Overlook (Boulder) — Expansive Continental Divide views.
Flagstaff Mountain (Boulder) — Multiple overlooks and picnic areas.
Devils Backbone Open Space (Loveland) — Unique rock formations and meadows.
Colorado National Monument — Majestic canyons and monoliths near Grand Junction.
Bishop’s Castle — Quirky, hand-built castle with unique photo opportunities.
Chimney Rock National Monument — Unique rock formations and ancient ruins.
Chimney Rock Archaeological Site — Stunning rock spires with ancestral Puebloan ruins.
Waterfall Elopements
Romantic, dramatic ceremonies near rushing waterfalls and cascading streams.
Bridal Veil Falls (Telluride) — Colorado’s tallest free-falling waterfall.
Ouzel Falls (Rocky Mountain National Park) — Accessible hike to stunning cascades.
Zapata Falls — Hidden gem near Great Sand Dunes National Park.
Seven Falls (Colorado Springs) — Dramatic waterfalls with ceremony overlooks.
Fish Creek Falls (Steamboat Springs) — Gorgeous waterfalls in all seasons.
Cascade Falls (Ouray) — Short walk to impressive waterfall views.
North Clear Creek Falls — Easily accessible roadside waterfall.
South Mineral Creek Falls — Surrounded by wildflowers in summer.
Alberta Falls (Rocky Mountain National Park) — Popular waterfall with easy trail access.
Hanging Lake Trail (Glenwood Canyon) — Iconic turquoise lake and waterfalls.
Remote & Adventurous Spots
Perfect for couples craving privacy, wilderness, and epic adventure.
Great Sand Dunes National Park — Largest sand dunes in North America create a surreal desert oasis.
Crystal Mill (Marble) — Historic mill nestled by a rushing river.
Ice Caves Trail (Steamboat Springs) — Unique ice caves for a dramatic elopement.
James Peak Wilderness — Remote alpine wilderness with rugged peaks.
San Juan Mountains — Vast mountain range with endless remote elopement locations.
Mount Zirkel Wilderness — Pristine wilderness with alpine lakes and peaks.
Hermosa Creek Wilderness — Wild landscapes near Durango for secluded elopements.
Great Divide Mountain Bike Route — Remote, scenic mountain route with hidden gems.
Black Bear Pass — Epic jeep trail near Telluride with breathtaking views.
South Park (Park County) — Vast alpine basin with rolling meadows and mountain views.
Cozy & Intimate Venues
All-inclusive lodges, historic hotels, and rustic ranches that combine comfort with natural beauty.
Dunton Hot Springs — Remote luxury resort with alpine hot springs.
Stanley Hotel (Estes Park) — Historic charm meets mountain elegance.
Devil’s Thumb Ranch (Tabernash) — Luxury ranch resort with rustic charm.
Silverthorne Pavilion — Modern mountain venue with gorgeous river views.
Chief Hosa Lodge — Rustic mountain lodge near Denver with riverfront spots.
Snowmass Village — High alpine village with cozy meadows.
C Lazy U Ranch — Working ranch with luxury amenities.
Cloud Camp at the Broadmoor — Remote lodge above Colorado Springs.
Lumber Baron Inn (Denver) — Victorian mansion with historic charm.
Surf Hotel (Buena Vista) — Modern riverside boutique hotel.
Hudson Gardens (Littleton) — Botanical garden oasis.
Yampa River Botanic Park — Lush gardens and serene riverside setting.
Staunton State Park — Dramatic rock formations, waterfalls, and forests near Denver.
Mueller State Park — Meadows and forest trails perfect for intimate ceremonies.
Additional Beautiful Colorado Elopement Spots
Bear Creek Trail (Colorado Springs) — Forested trail with peaceful waterfalls.
Steamboat Springs Yampa River Core Trail — Riverside with mountain views.
Lory State Park — Diverse landscapes and scenic trails near Fort Collins.
St. Vrain State Park — River and wetland areas, quiet ceremony spots.
Flatirons Vista Trail (Boulder) — Iconic Flatirons views on scenic trails.
Mount Sherman — Scenic and less crowded 14er peak.
Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave — Historic site with panoramic views near Golden.
Elk Meadow Park (Evergreen) — Meadows and forested ceremony spots.
Eldorado Canyon (Boulder County) — Dramatic cliffs and quiet trails.
North Table Mountain Park (Golden) — Plateau with sweeping city and mountain views.
Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad — Historic scenic train experience.
Elkhead Reservoir — Quiet lake with forest surroundings in northwest Colorado.
Fishers Peak State Park — Rugged plateau views and secluded spots.
Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge — Natural area near Denver with wildlife and wetlands.
Devils Backbone Open Space (Loveland) — Unique rock formations and meadow settings
Staunton State Park — Dramatic rock formations, waterfalls, and forests just outside Denver.
Hermosa Creek Wilderness — Remote, wild landscapes near Durango for secluded elopements.
Mount Sherman — One of Colorado’s 14ers, less crowded and very scenic for adventurous couples.
Aspen Groves — Vibrant golden aspens in the fall create a stunning, colorful ceremony setting.
Turquoise Lake (Leadville) — Large mountain lake surrounded by peaks with ample ceremony space.
Black Bear Pass — Epic jeep trail near Telluride with breathtaking views for adventurous celebrations.
Mount Princeton — Hot springs and mountain backdrops near Buena Vista offer a relaxing ceremony spot.
Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge — A surprising natural area near Denver with wildlife and wetlands.
Mueller State Park — Wildflower meadows and forest trails in Woodland Park provide peaceful ceremony sites.
Colorado National Monument — Majestic canyons and monoliths near Grand Junction create an unforgettable elopement backdrop.
How to Choose the Perfect Colorado Elopement Spot
Consider the season: Some high-altitude locations close in winter, while wildflowers bloom in summer.
Permits & regulations: Many popular spots require permits for ceremonies and photography.
Privacy & timing: Early mornings or weekdays help avoid crowds and create a more intimate atmosphere.
Accessibility: Think about hiking difficulty and how far you want to travel with your gear.
Ready to Plan Your Colorado Elopement?
If you’re feeling inspired by these stunning locations and want help crafting a personalized elopement experience, I’d love to connect. As a local photographer, I know the best spots, the ideal timing, and how to capture your day beautifully no matter where you choose.
Reach out anytime! let’s make your dream Colorado elopement a reality! colleenscaptures.com
