Ultimate Colorado Elopement Guide for Adventurous Couples (Quickstart)

Eloping in Colorado is a dream for couples who want an intimate, adventure-filled experience—think snow-capped peaks, red rock formations, alpine lakes, and golden aspens. This quickstart blog guide gives you the essentials; for the full deep dive with locations, sample timelines, legal steps, and logistics, head to my Colorado Elopement Guide.

I’m Bobak—your Colorado Springs elopement photographer, hype person, and calm planner on big days. Whether we’re hiking at sunrise or keeping things simple at an easy-access overlook, I’m here to make your elopement easy, meaningful, and beautifully photographed.

Why Choose Colorado for Your Elopement | Colorado Elopement Guide

• Self-solemnization: You can legally marry yourselves in Colorado—no officiant or witnesses required.

• Epic variety: From Garden of the Gods to alpine lakes, dunes, and wildflower meadows, the backdrops are unreal.

• Year-round options: Each season offers a different vibe (more on that below).

Want the comprehensive version (permits, legal 101, timelines, packing lists)? Read the Colorado Elopement Guide.

Best Places to Elope (Fast Picks + When They Shine)

• Garden of the Gods (Colorado Springs) – Iconic red rocks with Pikes Peak views. Free entry, easy access, incredible at sunrise/sunset. See the Garden of the Gods Elopement Guide for the best spots and timing.

• Twin Lakes & Independence Pass – Crystal-clear water + high-alpine overlooks; best late May–Oct (seasonal road).

• Rocky Mountain National Park – Alpine lakes and forests; permits required and designated ceremony spots.

• Pikes Peak – Drive or cog to 14,115 ft; weather changes fast, but the views are unmatched.

• Great Sand Dunes National Park – Otherworldly dunes with snowy peaks behind; sunrise/sunset glow + stargazing.

Need more ideas? Browse my Best Places to Elope in Colorado.

When to Elope (By Season)

• Spring (Mar–May): Wildflowers at lower elevations; higher passes can be snowy.

• Summer (Jun–Aug): Long days, peak trail access; plan sunrise/sunset to avoid crowds and summer storms.

• Fall (Sep–Oct): Golden aspens and crisp air; book permits/vendors early.

• Winter (Nov–Feb): Quiet trails and snowy magic; some roads close—choose lower elevation or winter-ready spots.

For month-by-month detail and sample itineraries, jump to the Colorado Elopement Guide.

Costs (Realistic Ranges)

A Colorado elopement can be simple or luxe. Ballparks many couples see:

• Lean: $1,000–$2,500 (license, permits, 2–3 hr photo, simple florals)

• Standard: $3,000–$6,000 (4–6 hr photo, HMUA, lodging, picnic/dinner)

• Luxe Adventure: $7,000–$12,000+ (full-day/2-day coverage, videography, florals, private venues, jeep/helicopter add-ons)

Explore options and coverage in my Elopement/Investment Packages.

Permits & Rules (Quick Notes)

• Many parks require special use and/or photo permits; rules vary by season and group size.

• Always cross-check official guidance (trail/road status, fire/weather alerts) with Colorado Parks & Wildlife.

• I’ll help you confirm the right permit path and build a timeline around light, crowds, and access.

More permit specifics are compiled on the Colorado Elopement Guide.

Self-Solemnizing (Yes, You Can Marry Yourselves)

Colorado allows self-solemnization—no officiant or witnesses required. Many couples love the privacy and personality of this option. (Fun fact: your dog can “sign” with a paw print on the license.)

I’m also ordained and can step in to officiate if you prefer a guided ceremony.

What to Wear & Pack (Comfort = Better Photos)

• Layers (mountains shift quickly), grippy footwear, a cozy wrap/coat that photographs well.

• Colors that pop: jewel tones, warm neutrals, textures that move with the wind.

• Bring the essentials (license, vows, rings, water, snacks, headlamp, sunscreen).

• See the full list on the Resources page and in the pillar guide.

Sample 8-Hour Adventure Timeline (Golden Light Focus)

• 1:00 PM Getting ready + details

• 2:00 PM First look & private vows

• 2:45 PM Couple’s portraits / trail time

• 3:30 PM Ceremony in a scenic spot

• 4:00 PM Family/guest photos (optional)

• 4:30 PM Adventure portraits (golden light)

• 6:30 PM Sunset overlook portraits

• 7:15 PM First dance + toast

• 8:00 PM Starry-night photos (weather permitting)

Find more timeline options (2-hour, 4-hour, 2-day) on the Colorado Elopement Guide.

Dog-Friendly & Guest-Friendly Options

Bringing your pup or a small group? Places like Garden of the Gods or Sapphire Point are great for accessibility. Keep group sizes small, pack for altitude, and split the day (private sunrise vows + family sunset celebration).

Ready to Start Planning?

Tell me your season, how adventurous you want to get, and if you’ll bring guests or pups—I’ll recommend locations, permits, and a custom timeline that fits you.

📩 Let’s plan your day: Contact Me | Read the full Colorado Elopement Guide