How to Elope in Colorado
THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO PLANNING YOUR COLORADO ELOPEMENT | TOP LOCATIONS, RESOURCES, LOGISTICS & DETAILS
Best known for the Rocky Mountains, Colorado is one of the top places in the U.S. to plan an adventure elopement in the mountains! Filled with rivers, canyons, deserts, and (of course) mountains, Colorado holds some of the most amazing landscapes in the United States. If you are planning an intimate wedding or adventure elopement, then you need to consider eloping in Colorado! Keep reading to learn why!
If you’re thinking of eloping in Colorado, you’ve come to the right place!
With its snow-capped mountains, lush green forests, and sprawling valleys, Colorado has a little something for everyone. Its diverse landscape offers the perfect backdrop for couples looking to elope and plan an adventurous wedding outdoors.
If you’re thinking about eloping in Colorado, and are wondering where to start, I’m here to help. This guide will answer all your questions from Where do we elope? What do we need? When should we do it? and more!
How to Elope in Colorado | How to legally get married in Colorado
Colorado Elopement Logistics:
MARRIAGE LAWS FOR COLORADO
- Marriage License: In order to get married in Colorado, you will need to obtain a Colorado marriage license. Both of you must be at least 18 years old, and you can apply for and pick up your marriage license from any county clerk’s office regardless of where you are getting married in the state. Marriage licenses cost $30 and can be used immediately. They are valid for 35 days from the date of issue.
- Permitting: If you want to elope in a national park or state forest, you’ll need a special use permit (or wedding permit). The cost will depend on the park and different parks also have different rules, so make sure that you understand what you can and can’t do before planning your celebration.
- Officiant/Witnesses: Colorado is one of the few states in the U.S. that does not require any witnesses to get legally married! This means that couples have the option to self-solemnize and officiate their own ceremonies without anyone else present.
How to Elope in Colorado | Best time of year for your Colorado Elopement
When to elope in Colorado?
THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO ELOPE IN COLORADO:
One of the first things to decide when planning a Colorado elopement is when you want to elope and what will be the best time of year. The answer to these questions really depends on where you want to have your big day. Different seasons bring different sceneries and provide different experiences, so it all comes down to what you envision for your day. That being said, here are some tips to help you choose the best time to elope in Colorado.
Spring: During the Spring months, snow from the mountains starts to melt and the temperatures start to rise. Though this time of year is often referred to as Colorado’s “muddy season” there will also be far fewer crowds during this time which is perfect for those looking for a little more privacy.
Summer: Summer is the best time to elope in Colorado if you want warmer weather. More roads and trails will be open and you will have more hours of daylight allowing you to make the most of your elopement day(s).
Fall: Autumn is another quieter time of year in Colorado. Colors on the trees start to change and temperatures start to cool down making it an ideal time to elope. Late fall often brings the chance of snow so if you decide to elope in autumn, be prepared for unexpected changes in weather!
Winter: Colorado gets lots of snow, especially in the winter, so if you’re looking to do some snow activities on your elopement, this is the perfect season! Keep in mind though that winter weather in Colorado can be unpredictable, so you’ll want to watch for road closures and possible avalanches. (this is why it’s always a good idea to have a backup plan in place.)
How to Elope in Colorado | Top Colorado Elopement Locations
Where to elope in Colorado:
COLORADO OFFERS SOME OF THE MOST DIVERSE LANDSCAPES IN THE U.S.
Whether you’re dreaming of a mountain elopement or saying “I do” in the middle of red rocks and canyons, you’ve picked the perfect place for your elopement.
Remember – this is your big day, so choose a location that speaks to you. Where you choose to elope will set the tone and mood for the entire experience.
ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK:
This Colorado elopement guide wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Rocky Mountain National Park. One of the best-known national parks in the state, the RMNP is filled with some of the best views and hiking trails in the whole state! The park spans 265,807 acres and is filled with lakes, mountains, streams, and forests, providing endless opportunities to explore on your big day!
COLORADO NATIONAL MONUMENT:
The southwest isn’t the only place you can experience red rocks and canyons filled with monoliths! Colorado National Monument is the perfect place to exchange vows while feeling like you’re standing on top of the world! This location isn’t one of the tourist “hot spots” making it a great option for a more private elopement. Experience the best that nature has to offer and, keep your eyes peeled as you may even get to spot some bighorn sheep and soaring eagles.
GREAT SAND DUNES NATIONAL PARK:
If you want views like the Sahara desert without traveling internationally, then definitely consider Great Sand Dunes National Park! Located in southern Colorado, this national park is filled with rolling sand dunes surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Where else can you experience this beautiful combination of nature? The park is fairly secluded offering privacy for those looking for a more laid-back elopement experience.
Want to Elope in Colorado?
Are you ready to start planning your Colorado elopement? I know the perfect person for the job. In addition to being your elopement photographer, I can also help you plan your special day. Let’s chat about your elopement in Colorado. I’d love to hear more about your hopes and dreams for your wedding day.
Your Colorado Elopement Photographer + Videographer
that’s me, Rylee!
& I’m going to be your guide on navigating this whole eloping in Colorado thing. While I live in the pnw, my adventures have taken me all over the country – so I’m not just another photographer, writing another guide on where happens to be Colorado. I’m kind of an expert when it comes to adventure elopements so if there’s something you need to know about planning a Colorado elopement or intimate wedding – I’m your lady!
Colorado Elopement Packages
Planning and Resources:
- From phone chats, happy hour, and brewery dates to multiple questionnaires. I want to get to know your love & values so I can create a timeless experience that reflects the most authentic you that will last forever through imagery
- Complementary planning assistance from me
- locations ideas, checklists, timelines, & vendor recommendations
- Fully edited, High-Resolution photos
- Custom Online Gallery
- Personal Printing Rights
- Sneak Peek Photos
- Custom GIFs & Double Exposures
- Traveling Included
