Top 5 Breathtaking Colorado Elopement Locations
by Kelsy Shaffor Photography – Denver-based Elopement Photographer
Rooted in storytelling, guided by grace — I believe every couple deserves a day that reflects their love honestly, simply, and beautifully. Here are some of my favorite Colorado locations to say “I do” with intention and wonder.
1. Rocky Mountain National Park (Estes Park, CO)
This iconic gem offers alpine lakes, sweeping meadows, and mountain views that feel like a dream. Sunrise elopements at Bear Lake or Trail Ridge Road are especially magical — peaceful, sacred, and full of awe.
Permit Required: Yes
Best Time of Year: June–October
2. Sapphire Point Overlook (Dillon, CO)
If you want mountain views without a big hike, this spot overlooking Dillon Reservoir is a favorite for intimate ceremonies. It’s accessible, intimate, and pairs beautifully with a lakeside photo session.
Permit Required: Yes, for reserved ceremonies
Best Time of Year: May–October
3. Great Sand Dunes National Park (Mosca, CO)
For couples with an adventurous spirit, this otherworldly location offers epic dunes, golden light, and wide-open skies. It’s unexpected, bold, and makes for truly unique storytelling.
Permit Required: Yes
Best Time of Year: Late spring or early fall (avoid extreme heat)
4. Lost Gulch Overlook (Boulder, CO)
Just outside Boulder, this dramatic cliffside location offers a sweeping view of the Front Range. It’s perfect for golden hour ceremonies and couples looking for a moody, windswept vibe.
Permit Required: Yes
Best Time of Year: Year-round, but especially stunning in fall
5. Maroon Bells (Aspen, CO)
Arguably one of the most photographed locations in Colorado, the Maroon Bells offer unmatched alpine beauty and reflection-filled lake views. Fall here is unbeatable, with golden aspens lining the trails.
Permit Required: Yes + parking reservation
Best Time of Year: Mid-September to early October
Hidden Gems
Shrine Pass – near Vail/Red Cliff, CO
Vibe: Wildflowers, vast alpine meadows, and mountain views
Why it fits: Intimate, off-the-beaten-path, and full of natural glory — ideal for quiet vows
Guest size: Elopement or small group
Best time: Summer through early fall
Permit: National Forest permit may be required
Mount Falcon West – Morrison, CO
Vibe: Red rocks, old stone ruins, and mountain overlooks
Why it fits: Beautifully broken textures paired with distant views — a sacred-feeling space
Guest size: Up to 15 comfortably
Permit: Jefferson County event/photography permit required
Brainard Lake Recreation Area – Ward, CO
Vibe: High alpine lake with moody mountain reflections and pine forests
Why it fits: Feels wild, emotional, and quiet — perfect for intentional elopements
Guest size: Elopement or micro wedding (10 or fewer)
Best light: Morning to avoid crowds
Permit: U.S. Forest Service permit needed
Devil’s Thumb Ranch – Tabernash, CO (Boutique venue)
Vibe: Secluded lodge in the mountains with meadows and horses
Why it fits: Elegant, rustic charm — perfect for couples wanting an intentional, unplugged celebration
Guest size: 20–50 for small weddings
Faith-friendly: Private feel, perfect for Scripture-centered ceremonies
Permit: Venue booking required
Sloans Lake Overlook – Denver, CO (Urban + Natural Combo)
Vibe: Peaceful urban lake with soft skyline and mountain view at sunset
Why it fits: A beautiful mix of city and stillness — intimate and meaningful
Guest size: Elopement or <10
Permit: Denver Parks photography/event permit required
Hidden Valley in Rocky Mountain National Park
Vibe: Stream, evergreens, and stunning alpine backdrops
Why it fits: A lesser-known RMNP area that feels like a secluded blessing
Guest size: Elopement to 15
Permit: RMNP ceremony permit + timed entry pass
Tip: Weekday mornings = peace
The Paint Mines – Calhan, CO
Vibe: Earth-toned hoodoos and dramatic, otherworldly rock formations
Why it fits: Sacred, creative, and awe-inspiring — a perfect fit for a redemption-themed love story
Guest size: Elopement only
Permit: El Paso County permit required for events/photography
Twin Lakes – Near Leadville, CO
Vibe: Crystal-clear mountain lake with sweeping peaks
Why it fits: Romantic, quiet, and full of movement + grace
Guest size: Elopement to micro wedding
Permit: May need USFS or local event permit depending on exact location
Staunton State Park – Pine, CO
Vibe: Forests, meadows, and dramatic cliffs with views
Why it fits: Understated and wild — ideal for couples craving intimacy and connection
Guest size: Elopement or small wedding
Permit: Colorado State Parks permit required
Bonus Tip: Embrace What Feels Like You
Colorado offers endless backdrops — forests, lakes, meadows, deserts — but the most meaningful location is one that speaks to your story. Whether it’s a mountain peak or a quiet glen, we’ll find the perfect place together.
Ready to Start Planning Your Elopement?
I’m based in Denver and always ready to hit the road — from Estes to Telluride, and everywhere in between. If you’re dreaming of an intimate, grace-filled wedding day in Colorado (or beyond), I’d be honored to walk alongside you.
Let’s create something honest, beautiful, and uniquely yours.
📩 Inquire Here | 📍 Serving all of Colorado | ✈ Available for travel
Travel Policy – Where I Go & What’s Included
I’m based in Denver, Colorado, but my heart is always ready to follow your love story wherever it leads.
Whether you're eloping in the foothills of Boulder, saying “I do” under the aspens in Crested Butte, or planning a quiet wedding getaway in the Colorado mountains, I’m honored to be part of it. I regularly serve couples all across Colorado and am available for travel throughout the Western U.S. and beyond.
Travel within 60 miles of Denver is included in all wedding and elopement packages. For locations beyond that, a modest travel fee covers mileage, lodging (if needed), and time away.
Let’s dream together and create something beautiful — whether it's in your backyard, the mountains, or a quiet desert canyon.
“Have camera, will travel.”
If you’re unsure whether your location requires a travel fee, just reach out — I’m happy to talk through all the details."