4 Scenic Spots for your Colorado Elopement 

You’ve decided renting a huge wedding venue isn’t your vibe and you’re ready to commit to a more cost effective (and adventurous) way to say “I do.” As you’re doing research on your elopement, you’ve probably come across countless pictures taken in the gorgeous state of Colorado.

It’s true– Colorado has some of the most iconic places in the country for an outdoor elopement. No need to have hundreds of guests, or pay a fortune for a venue if that isn’t what lights you up.

If you’re seriously considering a Colorado Elopement to tie the knot, you’re going to want to stick around for this post because I’m breaking down the best (and my absolute favorite) places to head to for an unforgettable elopement that will have you basking in your decision to keep your day on the smaller side. 

Let’s get to it–

The 4 Most Scenic Spots for your Colorado Elopement

Chautauqua Park–

First up on the list of incredible Colorado elopement spots is Chautauqua Park.

Chautauqua Park has gorgeous 360 views and is close to great dining options

What your elopement could look like: An intimate ceremony in the park with views of the incredible Flatiron rock formations towering behind you as you exchange your vows. After the ceremony, you could explore the park’s numerous trails for more adventure or head to a local brewery or the Chautauqua Dining Hall for a post-ceremony celebration.

Why I love it: Chautauqua Park is a stunning and accessible place to say “I do” with just you two or with a small group of guests. Plus, the park’s proximity to downtown Boulder means you have access to the best of the best when it comes to lodging and dining options.

Best time to Elope: The best time to elope at Chautauqua Park is from late spring to early fall (May to October). During these months, the weather is best, and the landscape is perfect. If you want to avoid crowds, consider an early morning or weekday for your ceremony. 

Other fun deets about Chautauqua Park:

• Chautauqua Park has a variety of trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes, so you can choose a location that suits your mood
• Boulder’s local restaurants and breweries offer excellent options for a celebratory dinner after your elopement.
• The park is very dog-friendly, so you can include your fur babes in your day.

Garden of the Gods–

Secondly, A list of great elopement spots in Colorado simply wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Garden of the Gods.

Garden of the Gods is an iconic Colorado spot with the most photogenic backdrop in the game

What your elopement could look like: The most stunning backdrop for an elopement there is– saying “I do” amongst the gorgeous red rock formations with mountains towering in the background. Afterward, we can explore and capture unforgettable photos  or head to the penny arcade and take cute pics in the arcade and then head to a nearby joint for your reception.

Why I love it: Garden of the Gods is one of Colorado’s most iconic spots. The red rock formations contrasted against the bright blue sky make for unforgettable photos and a place your guests will be so happy they visited. Plus, the park is free to enter, which makes it an excellent option for couples on a budget.

Best time to Elope: The best time to elope at Garden of the Gods is during the seasons of summer(May to August) and fall (September to October). During these times, the weather is perfect. Sunrise or sunset elopements are particularly magical and provide the best lighting for epic photos.

Other fun deets about Garden of the Gods:

• Garden of the Gods is home to diverse wildlife, including mule deer and tons of different bird species. If we’re lucky a critter will join us for your day.
• Nearby Colorado Springs also offers a variety of amenities, including luxurious accommodations, dining spots, and attractions like the Manitou Springs Incline and Pikes Peak.
• You can easily incorporate adventure into your day. Consider booking a guided rock climbing session for a thrilling and adventurous post-ceremony activity.

Guanella Pass–

Thirdly, a lesser known and equally beautiful place for a small ceremony: Guanella Pass.

Guanella Pass is a hidden gem that’s still easy to get to

What your elopement could look like: Elope with the peaks of the Rockies as your backdrop. Guanella Pass features a variety of landscapes, including alpine meadows, dense forests, and clear mountain streams. After your ceremony, you can hit the trails, have a picnic by the creek, or simply enjoy the views as you drive to your reception.

Why I love it: Guanella Pass is a hidden gem that offers incredible beauty without the crowds of more well-known locations. The pass is easily accessible from Denver, making it a convenient yet gorgeous spot for an elopement. The diversity of landscapes means your photos will have tons of variety.

Best time to Elope:  I recommend eloping late June to early October. During these months, the road is typically open, and the weather is warm enough for outdoor activities. Like always, early mornings or weekdays are recommended if you want a more private experience.

Other fun deets about Guanella Pass:

• The area offers several hiking trails, such as the Silver Dollar Lake Trail, which provide beautiful settings for post-ceremony photos.
• After your elopement, explore the charming town of Georgetown, known for its historic buildings and cozy dining options.
• The pass is also an excellent spot for stargazing if you decide to camp overnight.

A Local Camping Spot–

Lastly, a spot with some significance to your relationship.

Your Favorite Camping Spot is one of many sentimental and scenic spots for your Colorado Elopement

What your elopement could look like: Choosing your favorite camping spot for an elopement that’s super personalized to you. Your campsite can be transformed into a cozy and romantic spot for vows with a simple tent, fairy lights, and a campfire. After exchanging vows, enjoy an intimate celebration with s’mores, a bottle of champagne, and a night spent stargazing.

Why I love it: The flexibility of choosing a campsite means you can find a location that matches your vision. Plus it’ll be more personal to your relationship as you’ll be able to return to this spot again and again. Additionally, camping is budget-friendly for couples who want an insane experience without an insane price tag.

Best time to Elope: The best time for a camping elopement in Colorado is from late spring to early fall. Think May to October. These months offer milder weather and make it easier to access various camping sites without the risk of snow. Early summer and early fall are particularly ideal, as they offer the best combination of comfy temperatures and fewer crowds. 

Other fun details:

• Colorado has numerous camping spots to choose from, including Rocky Mountain National Park, Maroon Bells, and Great Sand Dunes National Park.
• Plan a hike or a scenic drive to make your elopement even more adventurous. I’ll capture scenic photos along the way!
• Incorporate local touches into your celebration, such as a campfire-cooked meal with ingredients sourced from Colorado farmers’ markets.

Some important notes on eloping:

• Always make sure you read up on your elopement location’s rules, regulations, and permit requirements. This ensures your day will go off without a hitch.
• Follow Leave no Trace and always respect the natural environment
• Keep parking and accessibility in mind in order to ensure any guests can attend without problems

Whether you choose one of the 4 scenic spots for your Colorado elopement mentioned above, or choose another location for your elopement, you’re going to want a photographer there to capture it.

Luckily, Colorado weddings and elopements are my speciality, and I’m here to guide you in finding the perfect spot for you.

Need more Scenic Spots for your Colorado Elopement?

Let me match your perfect elopement spot with your vibe.  Reach out here to learn more.