Are you looking for a unique, adventurous and rugged location to elope in Colorado?
Say goodbye to traditional wedding venues and hello to breathtaking views and off-the-grid spots that will make your elopement one for the books. Colorado is home to some of the most stunning landscapes, perfect for a romantic and intimate celebration of your love.
There’s no shortage of scenic spots for your special day. So grab your hiking boots and sense of adventure, because as an elopement photographer in Colorado, I am about to take you on a journey through my top Colorado elopement locations for adventurous couples.
11 Colorado Elopement Locations
- Maroon Bells in Aspen
- Emerald Lake at Rocky Mountain National Park
- Dream Lake at Rocky Mountain National Park
- Brainard Lake Recreation Area
- Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs
- Bear Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park
- Sprague Lake
- Telluride
- Lake Dillon in Summit County
- Ice Lake Basin in San Juan Mountains
- Alberta Falls
Maroon Bells in Aspen
If you and your significant other are all about ‘heightened’ romance, there’s no better spot to elope than the Maroon Bells in Aspen.
These twin peaks, standing majestically over Maroon Lake, are not just a pair of pretty faces. They offer breathtaking views that could rival any high-end art gallery, except here, admission is free, and Mother Nature is your curator.
Imagine saying ‘I do’ with the golden aspen trees as your backdrop, their vibrancy contrasting the stoic grey mountains. This Colorado elopement location is like the supermodel of the mountain world – always ready for a photo shoot, and rest assured, it serves as a perfect backdrop for your wedding pictures.
Emerald Lake at Rocky Mountain National Park
Now, if you two are more of the ‘walk in the park’ type, but want to up your game for your special day, then Emerald Lake is just the ticket.
Set smack dab in the middle of Rocky Mountain National Park, this little beauty is no wallflower. She flaunts her turquoise waters like a proud peacock, offering a spectacle that’s worth the hike.
The trail to Emerald Lake is less ‘Everest’ and more ‘leisurely Sunday stroll’, so you can save your energy for the ‘I dos’. And no worries about crashing wedding parties – the evergreens make excellent bouncers, keeping uninvited guests at bay.
Bask in the solitude, drink in the mountain views, and say your vows by the shimmering waters at this Colorado elopement location.
Dream Lake at Rocky Mountain National Park
If the Maroon Bells are the supermodels and Emerald Lake is the proud peacock, Dream Lake is the dreamy diva of Rocky Mountain National Park.
She’s stunning, she’s elusive, and she’s got reflections that would make any mirror green with envy. If you have always dreamed of having a wedding where you’re surrounded by towering snow-capped mountains, reflected on crystal-clear waters, then you have hit the jackpot.
And the trail leading up to this dream destination is nothing short of a red carpet. It’s scenic, diverse, and offers a great warm-up for the hike down the aisle. As for Hallett Peak, it stands tall and stoic in the backdrop of your ceremony.
The surrounding beauty at this Colorado elopement location will leave everyone speechless.
Brainard Lake Recreation Area
Brainard Lake Recreation Area is hidden away like a secret stash of nature’s bounty.
This area boasts a smorgasbord of Instagram-worthy sights, including Isabelle Glacier and Long Lake – talk about double trouble!
With towering mountains framing emerald meadows, your wedding photos will have that “Wow, did they elope to Middle-earth?” effect. The trek to the altar may be a bit more adventurous here, but if you’re up for the journey then go for it!
Plus, nothing says “in sickness and in health” like helping your future spouse scramble over a tricky bit of terrain.
Whether you decide to exchange rings by the shimmering waters of Long Lake or pledge eternal love under the gaze of Isabelle Glacier, you’re guaranteed an epic love story backdrop at this Colorado elopement location.
Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs
Just when you thought Colorado’s charm was all about those sky-high peaks and emerald lakes, Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs waltzes in with a dramatic “Hold my beer”.
This place doesn’t just flirt with beauty, it’s in a full-blown love affair with it. Here, you will find bold red rock formations flirting shamelessly with the sky, while Pikes Peak coyly peeks over their shoulder.
It’s a bit of a geological soap opera that has Mother Nature herself hooked. As the backdrop to your vows, the stunning formations will make you feel like you have stepped onto the set of a sci-fi movie (minus the aliens!)
If you’re looking for a location that blends the grandeur of nature with a touch of drama, this Colorado elopement location is your ticket to a wedding that’s out of this world.
Bear Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park
Bear Lake is set like a shiny gem amidst lush greenery, this lake is the paparazzo of Rocky Mountain National Park, known for capturing perfect mirror images of its surroundings.
Imagine declaring your love and the romantic moment reflected on the crystal-clear water.
Don’t fret about the backdrop, either. With a diverse array of trails, you can choose between a forest ambience, a mountain panorama, or a lakeside serenade for your ‘I dos’.
So, slip into your hiking boots and get ready for a ceremony that’s bound to leave everyone reflecting on the beauty of your love…and the lake, of course.
Sprague Lake
Looking to cement your love with a gorgeous mountain vista as your witness?
Well, get ready to croon your vows at the stunning Sprague Lake. Imagine you, your loved one, and an ordained moose (kidding, sort of) gathered in a tranquil location, amidst a spectacular loop trail.
With serene waters on one side and a lush landscape on the other, it’s nature’s very own aisle just for you. The Rockies loom majestically as a backdrop, proving once and for all, that love is indeed a ‘peak’ experience.
This Colorado elopement location is where even Mother Nature RSVPs ‘yes’.
Telluride
Say hello to Telluride, the town so nice they named it…once, but they really meant it.
Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and meandering rivers, this picturesque paradise will have you tying the knot quicker than a seasoned sailor. Telluride is a guaranteed success for a Colorado elopement location.
The awe-inspiring scenery is a love letter written by Mother Nature herself. Not to mention, you could casually drop into conversation that Tom Cruise owned a house here. Talk about a conversation starter!
This is your chance to exchange vows amidst the wilderness, under the Colorado sky, and the occasional chipmunk running around.
Lake Dillon in Summit County
Lake Dillon is not just a reservoir, it’s a love magnet.
Can’t decide between a forest or a lake for your Colorado elopement location?
With Lake Dillon, you don’t have to! You will get your love-soaked vows mirrored in the shimmering water, a majestic forest as your natural cathedral, and if you’re lucky, a mischievous squirrel to play the ring bearer.
The towering mountains will lend a dramatic touch to your wedding photos.
Lake Dillon at Summit County brings adventure to your wedding day, without the need to dangle off a cliff or wrestle a mountain lion.
Just imagine uttering your vows as the sun sets, casting a golden glow over your love story.
Ice Lake Basin in San Juan Mountains
Trek your way to matrimonial bliss at the Ice Lake Basin.
Yes, this Colorado elopement location is for couples who like their love like they like their ice: cold, hard, and capable of surviving a rigorous hike.
But trust me, the views of the turquoise alpine lakes and stunning peaks are worth every gasping breath.
Besides, nothing screams ‘I am committed to you’ quite like schlepping up a mountain in formal wear. Just remember to pack some sturdy hiking boots along with your rings.
So, strap on those boots, flash that engaged smile and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime – just remember, the only thing that’s allowed to take your breath away is your partner, not altitude sickness!
Alberta Falls
Get ready to elope under the vibrant sunrise at the captivating Alberta Falls.
Even if you’re not a morning person, this romantic spectacle will have you leaping out of bed.
The hike down to the waterfall is a breeze. At the crack of dawn, you will witness the breathtaking cascade of the falls, basking in the soft morning light – an epic backdrop to start your forever.
Be warned, however, this spot is not exactly a secret. As soon as the sun decides to rise, the place becomes bustling with admirers of all shapes and sizes. Set that alarm, secure that bed-head with a flower crown, and march down the aisle while the rest of the world is still snoring.
With the serenade of the waterfall and the enchanting morning light, this will be a Colorado elopement location worthy of a Disney princess.
Ready To Plan Your Adventure Elopement?
There we have it, now you know my top Colorado elopement locations for adventurous couples! Each location offers a unique blend of beauty, serenity, and wild allure, ensuring that your elopement portraits will reflect the genuine depth of your connection.
So go ahead, dream big. Choose your Rocky Mountain stage, and let’s create images that will stand the test of time. Get in touch with me today to inquire about your elopement photography!
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