The Top 8 Reasons to Elope in Colorado
Do you want to know one of the most beautiful things about choosing an adventure elopement? You can get married anywhere. Yep, you can get married absolutely anywhere.
Choosing an adventure elopement opens up a world of possibilities. You can get married anywhere your heart desires—how amazing is that?
Picture saying your vows at the top of a snowy mountain, pledging your love on a paddleboard at your favorite alpine lake, or burying your feet in the sand on a stunning beach before saying your big “I do.”
The beauty of an adventure elopement lies in its endless options. But with so many incredible places to choose from, the decision can feel a bit overwhelming. Luckily, I’m here to help you find the perfect elopement location that captures both beauty and adventure.
If you want my expert opinion, I’ll say it every time: elope in Colorado! Here’s why you won’t regret it.
Diverse & Amazing Landscapes to Choose From
Colorado boasts jaw-dropping landscapes that make it a dream destination for elopements. While many think of the Rocky Mountains (which are stunning, by the way), Colorado also offers:
- Incredible canyons
- Expansive dune deserts
- A variety of mountain ranges
- Amazing waterfalls
- Crystal-clear alpine lakes
- Breathtaking caves and sandstone formations
From lush valleys to rugged peaks, the adventure awaits you in Colorado!
If you’re eager to learn more about the best places to elope in Colorado, check out my Ultimate Colorado Eloping Guide and explore my location-specific guides for some of my favorite spots in the state.
Want to know even more about the amazing places you can elope in Colorado? Check out my Ultimate Colorado Eloping Guide and take a peek at my location-specific eloping guides for some of my favorite spots in Colorado.
It Has the Best Seasons
When people think of Colorado, snowy slopes and frosty mountaintops often come to mind. They’re not wrong! The state enjoys a picturesque winter that lasts well into the year, especially in higher elevations. But there’s so much more to experience throughout the seasons.
Here’s a quick overview of Colorado’s four stunning seasons:
- Winter: Expect snow, chilly temperatures, and the occasional snowstorm. If you love winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, Colorado offers endless opportunities. Whether you want a snowy backdrop for photos or an adventure-filled elopement day, winter in Colorado is magical.
- Spring: Spring brings a mix of rewards and surprises. You might find yourself surrounded by vibrant wildflowers, warm temperatures, and blue skies. But be ready for the possibility of a late-season snowstorm, too! If you and your partner enjoy spontaneity, spring in Colorado is perfect for you.
- Summer: Experience the beauty of Colorado in summer, where mountain temperatures are often just right. The state bursts with wildflowers, from the San Juan Mountains to the Rockies. While unexpected thunderstorms can happen, planning ahead can make summer one of the best times for your elopement.
- Fall: Colorado’s fall leaves create a breathtaking display of vibrant golds and reds. If you and your partner adore the fall season, you won’t find a more stunning backdrop than the changing leaves in Colorado.
Self-Solemnizing is Always a Win
Colorado is one of the few states that gives couples the freedom to self-solemnize.
One of the best perks of eloping in Colorado is the ability to self-solemnize. That means you can get married without needing an officiant or witnesses—just sign the paperwork, and you’re good to go! While many couples opt for witnesses and officiants for sentimental reasons, self-solemnization gives you the freedom to personalize your day however you want.
This option simplifies your ceremony, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: your love. Plus, since you don’t need witnesses, anyone can sign your marriage license—including your furry friends! That’s a pretty adorable option, if you ask me.
Unmatched Accessibility
Colorado may be rugged and wild, but it’s also easily accessible. The state offers countless trails and scenic spots for every adventure you can imagine. If you need accessible trails for any level of adventure, you’ll find thousands to choose from in Colorado.
Whether you’re searching for a thrilling 4×4 road or a peaceful hiking path, the state provides ample resources to help you find the perfect location. Colorado has gone to great lengths to ensure everyone can enjoy the outdoors. Adventure enthusiasts share valuable insights about the best trails, national parks, and public lands, making it easy for you to plan your elopement.
When it comes to accessibility, few states compare to Colorado.
Any Type of Adventure You Could Imagine
As we’ve discussed, Colorado’s diverse landscape and accessibility open the door to endless adventures. Whether you want to ski, hike, paddleboard, picnic, bike, or take a helicopter ride, Colorado has it all!
If you can dream it, you can do it in Colorado.
Well, those things are coming into play again–this time in the form of endless opportunities for any kind of adventure you can dream up.
Colorado is the perfect place to ski and snowboard, hike and backpack, have an offroad adventure in your 4×4 vehicle of choice, paddleboard and kayak, have a scenic picnic, go biking, take a helicopter ride, or go horseback riding.
If you can dream it, then in Colorado, you can do it.
Adventure Elopement Culture is Big in CO
Let’s clarify something: it doesn’t matter whether adventure elopements are popular in the location you choose. What truly matters is that you’re getting married exactly where you want, regardless of how familiar the area is with adventure elopements.
That said, Colorado embraces adventure elopements wholeheartedly. Locals are always excited to see couples adventuring outdoors, making it easy for you to celebrate your love surrounded by supportive passersby.
Plus, you’ll benefit from:
- Helpful government agencies that guide you on paperwork and fees
- Vendors experienced in working with adventure elopements
- A welcoming atmosphere for your unique celebration
National & State Parks Galore (Plus Lots of Public Land)
We’ve already talked a lot about the type of landscape out there–so I’ll keep this section pretty short and sweet. But I do think it’s important to really spell out just how many amazing places there are to elope in Colorado.
Did you know that CO has four national parks? Mostly, people think of RMNP right away (which is fair–it’s one of the most popular parks in the U.S.), but that’s not the only amazing park in the state. It also is home to:
On top of that, Colorado has over 42 state parks and over 8.3 million acres of public land to explore.
With so many options, you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect spot for your elopement.
City Conveniences Alongside Wild Adventure
In Colorado, you can enjoy the best of both worlds. Depending on your location, you’ll find established cities filled with fantastic food, shops, vendors, lodging, and airports—while still being close to the rugged outdoors.
Of course, if you venture into remote areas, you might be far from these conveniences. But if you’re looking for a blend of city life and outdoor adventure, Colorado has you covered!
Let’s Plan Your Perfect-For-You Colorado Elopement
No matter what amazing day you’re envisioning for your Colorado elopement, I can help you pull it all together. As your elopement photographer, I’ll capture your love story as authentically and as meaningfully as possible–but I’ll also help you plan the ins and outs of your day so it’s entirely perfect for you both.
If you’re ready to kickstart your planning process, want to chat about the best places to elope in Colorado, or book your elopement dates with me, reach out ASAP so we can start creating the elopement day of your dreams.
