Step by Step how to Elope in Colorado: Ultimate Planning Guide

Dreaming of an elopement day that’s as adventurous and unique as your love? As a Colorado elopement photographer, I know that couples who choose to elope in Colorado are drawn to its breathtaking mountain views, endless natural beauty, and the freedom to design a wedding day that feels totally true to them. Whether you imagine a peaceful lakeside ceremony, a sunrise hike to a hidden peak, or simply a relaxed day filled with meaningful moments, Colorado offers the perfect backdrop for a fun, dreamy, and authentic elopement. This guide is here to help you plan a smooth, joyful, and unforgettable experience from start to finish.

Colorado is a top elopement destination thanks to its incredible natural beauty and easy marriage laws. From towering snow-capped peaks to vibrant red rock deserts, the state offers stunning backdrops to fit any couple’s style. Plus, Colorado’s relaxed legal requirements let you marry yourselves without an officiant or witnesses, making the process smooth and stress-free. Whether you want a quiet moment in nature or an adventurous mountain vow exchange, Colorado makes it possible to create a wedding day that’s truly your own.

Before diving into logistics on how to elope in Colorado, take a moment to dream big. What do you imagine for your elopement day? Is it swapping vows surrounded by wildflowers on a gentle mountain meadow? Or maybe you see an adventurous hike to a remote peak followed by a private picnic? Your elopement day is about your unique love story and what feels joyful and meaningful to you both.

Think beyond the ceremony itself—how do you want the whole day to feel? Relaxed and intimate? Playful and fun? Filled with quiet moments or full of adventure? These feelings will guide your choices and make the planning process much more enjoyable.

Colorado’s weather and terrain can be unpredictable, so being prepared is key to a smooth getaway. Here are some essentials many couples find helpful:

Packing thoughtfully not only ensures your comfort but also respects Colorado’s beautiful environment, keeping it pristine for others.

Ask yourself: Do you crave privacy, adventure, and a focus on your relationship? If the answer is yes, Colorado’s warm elopement culture is a perfect fit for intimate or “just us” weddings.

Colorado has something for every couple:

You don’t have to pick an exact spot right away—think about the scenery that excites you, then work with your photographer to narrow it down.

Step 3: Pick a Date and Season

• Summer (July–September): Wildflowers and easiest access to alpine locations.
• Fall (late September–early October): Incredible golden aspens will be your backdrop.
• Winter/Spring (November–May): Colorado turns into a snowy wonderland, with the coziest vibes, but some spots may be closed or remote.

Step 4: Book Your Colorado Elopement Photographer

Step 5: Sort The Legal Details

• Self-solemnization is allowed: No officiant or witnesses needed—marry yourselves if you wish!
• Obtain a marriage license from any county clerk office.
• Bring: Valid ID, Social Security numbers, and fee ($30–$35)
• No waiting period; license good for 35 days; return within 63 days
• You can have your pet or a child sign as a “witness” for fun! This does vary location to location so always double check!

Step 6: Secure Permits

Permit Requirements by Land Type

• National Parks: Permit required for ceremonies and photography. Group sizes usually limited to 10–30 people. Permits come with higher fees and specific location restrictions. Popular parks book out well in advance.
• State Parks: Permits are usually required for weddings and photoshoots. Group size limits vary, often 10–20 people. Check the individual state park’s website for specific permit details and fees.
• National Forests & Bureau of Land Management (BLM): Permits are often needed for groups or professional photography, typically when groups exceed 10–25 people. These permits are usually easier and less costly to obtain. Contact the local ranger district for details.
• Local/City Parks: Most local parks require permits for gatherings depending on the number of guests and the use of special equipment or rentals. Group size limits vary widely, often between 10–50 people.
• Iconic Free Areas (e.g., Garden of the Gods): Permits are rarely required. However, these areas commonly restrict decor, setups, and large groups, with typical attendance limits around 25–50 people. Only ceremonies without site alterations are allowed.

Pro Tips:

• Always check the latest rules by searching “your location wedding/elopement permit” or contacting the park/district ranger.
• Permits can take weeks or even months to process, and many popular places cap their total number per year.
• Your photographer will often have the most up-to-date tips (and can help secure required permits as part of their services).

Step 7: Build Your Vendor Team

• Florist, hair/makeup, private chef, adventure guides, or officiant
• Ask your photographer for local recommendations
• Remember, smaller teams mean simpler logistics and less impact on natural areas

Step 8: Plan Your Day-of Adventure

Step 9: Practice Leave No Trace

• Stay on trails/rock surfaces, pack out all trash, and avoid disturbing wildlife or natural features
• Opt for minimal decor and learn local guidelines for fires, drones, or music

The Benefits of Working with an Experienced Colorado Elopement Photographer

Choosing the right photographer when planning to elope in Colorado is about so much more than just beautiful images. Though I don’t live full-time in Colorado, I dedicate myself to extensive research, detailed virtual location scouting, and on-site visits before every elopement. This thorough preparation allows me to offer my couples the best possible options, ensuring their day is uniquely tailored to their vision.
My role goes beyond capturing moments — I’m a planning partner and guide who helps navigate everything from finding the ideal backdrop to understanding permits, weather, and timing. With a focus on laid-back, dreamy, and adventurous elopements, my approach is all about creating fun, authentic experiences. I work to help couples relax, be present, and connect naturally so that the photos truly reflect their love story.

Colorado Elopement FAQs: Everything You Need to Know to Elope in Colorado

Q1: Can we invite family or friends to our Colorado elopement?
A1: Yes! When you choose to elope in Colorado, you can keep your day just the two of you or include a small group of loved ones. Most popular outdoor elopement locations have guest limits—often around 10 to 15 people total, including vendors—keeping your celebration intimate and special. Many couples invite family or friends to join the ceremony, then enjoy adventure and sightseeing together.

Q2: What if we’re from out of state?
A2: No problem! You don’t have to be a Colorado resident to legally elope in Colorado. Out-of-state couples simply need to secure a Colorado marriage license and fulfill the state’s straightforward legal requirements—no residency needed. This flexibility makes Colorado a welcoming destination for couples nationwide.

Q3: Do we need an officiant or witnesses to get married in Colorado?
A3: One of the greatest benefits when you elope in Colorado is the option to self-solemnize, meaning you can marry yourselves without needing an officiant or witnesses. This legal convenience adds freedom and intimacy to your elopement day. Of course, if you prefer, you can also have an officiant or witnesses.

Q4: How does the marriage license process work in Colorado?
A4: To elope in Colorado legally, you’ll need a marriage license from any Colorado county clerk’s office. Many offices require an appointment and valid ID. The license is valid for 35 days, with no waiting period, and you must submit your signed license within 63 days for your marriage to be official.

Q5: Are pets allowed at Colorado elopements?
A5: Absolutely! Many couples include their furry friends in their Colorado elopement ceremonies. Just check the pet policies for your chosen location, as rules vary—some parks require dogs to stay on designated trails, for instance.

Why Choose to Elope in Colorado with Me as Your Photographer

Choosing to elope in Colorado means surrounding yourselves with breathtaking landscapes, fresh mountain air, and moments that feel truly yours. As a Colorado elopement photographer, my approach is all about capturing your day exactly as you want it—laid-back, dreamy, and full of adventure. I believe your wedding day should be fun, stress-free, and an authentic reflection of your unique love story.
I love working with couples who crave meaningful connection over tradition and who want their elopement day to feel adventurous yet relaxed. Whether it’s hiking to a quiet mountain lake for your ceremony or sharing laughs as the sun sets over colorful peaks, I’m there to document every genuine moment with care and creativity.
If you’re dreaming of an intimate, personal, and unforgettable elopement in Colorado, I’d be honored to help you craft and capture that experience in a way that’s completely true to you.