How to Plan a Spring or Summer Elopement in Colorado

Eloping in Colorado during the spring or summer is a dream come true for couples who love adventure, breathtaking landscapes, and intimate wedding experiences. Whether you want a mountaintop ceremony at sunrise, a wildflower-filled meadow for your vows, or a scenic lakeside backdrop, Colorado offers endless possibilities. But before you set off on your elopement journey, here’s everything you need to know to plan a stress-free and unforgettable experience.

1. Choose the Best Time for Your Colorado Elopement

Spring and summer in Colorado each have their own unique charm, so deciding when to elope depends on the experience you want.

• Spring (Late March – Early June)
• Expect cooler temperatures, especially in the mountains.
• Early spring can still have snow at higher elevations, but lower areas like Boulder or Garden of the Gods offer stunning, snow-free landscapes.
• Wildflowers start blooming in late May, creating dreamy backdrops.
• Great for couples who want fewer crowds and don’t mind a little unpredictability in the weather.
• Summer (Mid-June – Early September)
• Ideal for high-altitude elopements, as mountain roads and trails are fully accessible.
• Long daylight hours allow for stunning sunrise or sunset ceremonies.
• Wildflowers are at their peak in July and early August.
• Afternoon thunderstorms are common, so plan morning or evening ceremonies.

2. Pick the Perfect Elopement Location

Colorado is home to some of the most stunning elopement spots. Here are a few of my favorite locations for spring and summer elopements:

🏔 Rocky Mountain National Park

• Best for: Couples who want jaw-dropping mountain views, alpine lakes, and wildflower meadows.
• Ideal months: June–September (snow lingers at high elevations until late June).
• Top spots: Dream Lake, Upper Beaver Meadows, 3M Curve, Sprague Lake.
• Permit required? Yes, and they sell out fast! Book early.

🌿 Sapphire Point Overlook (Near Breckenridge)

• Best for: A scenic yet accessible mountain elopement with views of Dillon Reservoir.
• Ideal months: May–September.
• Perks: Easy to access, great for a small guest list, dog-friendly!
• Permit required? Yes, but it's budget-friendly and easy to obtain.

🏜 Great Sand Dunes National Park

• Best for: A unique, desert-like landscape with dramatic dunes.
• Ideal months: April–June (summer sand temperatures can be scorching).
• Perks: Feels like another world, perfect for adventurous couples!
• Permit required? Yes.

🏞 Telluride & Ouray

• Best for: Couples who want a hidden-gem mountain elopement with epic waterfalls and alpine lakes.
• Ideal months: Late June–September.
• Top spots: Blue Lakes Trail, Bridal Veil Falls, Yankee Boy Basin.
• Permit required? Depends on the location.

🌲 Crested Butte

• Best for: Wildflower lovers—this area is known as the “Wildflower Capital of Colorado.”
• Ideal months: Mid-July for peak wildflowers, June–September for mountain views.
• Permit required? Some locations require one, so check ahead.

3. Get Your Colorado Marriage License

One of the coolest things about getting married in Colorado? You don’t need an officiant! Colorado is a self-solemnizing state, which means you and your partner can marry yourselves—no witnesses, no officiant, no stress.

Marriage License Basics:

✅ Where to Get It: Any Colorado County Clerk’s office (can be different from where you elope).

✅ Cost: Around $30.

✅ Waiting Period: None—you can get married the same day!

✅ Expiration: Valid for 35 days.

✅ Do You Need Witnesses? Nope! Even your dog can “sign” your license with a paw print.

Pro Tip: If you're eloping in a remote area, pick up your license in a bigger town like Denver, Boulder, or Estes Park beforehand.

4. Plan for Colorado’s Wild Weather

Spring and summer in Colorado can bring sunshine, rain, and even the occasional snowstorm. Here’s how to be prepared:

🌦 Afternoon Thunderstorms: These are common in the mountains from June to August. Plan your ceremony for the morning or early evening for the best light and fewer storms.

🎒 Layer Up: Even in the summer, temperatures drop in the mountains. Bring a jacket or shawl to stay warm.

🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes: Many of the best elopement spots require some hiking. Opt for hiking boots or comfortable shoes.

⛺ Have a Backup Plan: Weather can be unpredictable, so pick a secondary location nearby in case of rain or unexpected closures.

5. Make It an Experience, Not Just a Ceremony

One of the best parts of eloping is that your day is truly about YOU. Here are some ways to make your elopement extra special:

🔥 Sunrise or Sunset Ceremony – Beat the crowds and soak in the golden light of the mountains.

🚗 Turn It Into a Road Trip – Explore multiple locations, stopping for photos and adventure along the way.

🏕 Camp Under the Stars – After your vows, set up a cozy campsite with s’mores and a starlit sky.

🏇 Incorporate an Activity You Love – Go horseback riding, take a 4x4 Jeep to an epic lookout, or hike to an alpine lake for a private picnic.

🥂 Celebrate with Champagne & Cake – Just because you’re eloping doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate! Bring a mini cake or charcuterie board for a post-ceremony treat.

6. Book Your Photographer Early (That’s Me! 😉)

Colorado’s best elopement spots are in high demand, and so are photographers who specialize in adventure elopements! Booking early ensures you get the date and location you want.

When you work with me, I don’t just take photos—I help you:

✔ Find the best elopement locations.

✔ Plan the perfect timeline for the best lighting.

✔ Navigate permits and logistics.

✔ Capture every breathtaking, emotional, and candid moment of your day.

Ready to Elope in Colorado? Let’s Do This!

If a spring or summer elopement in Colorado sounds like your dream wedding, I’d love to help you bring it to life! Whether you’re envisioning an intimate lakeside vow exchange or an adventurous mountain summit ceremony, I’ll be there to guide you, capture your love story, and ensure you have the best day ever.

📩 Reach out today to start planning your Colorado elopement!