The Ultimate Crested Butte Elopement Guide
Let’s kick things off by answering the million-dollar question: why choose Crested Butte for your elopement? If you’re looking for a destination that’s equal parts breathtaking and peaceful, Crested Butte is your jackpot. Known as the “Wildflower Capital of Colorado,” this little mountain town offers some of the most vibrant and diverse landscapes you could dream of.
Imagine saying your vows surrounded by fields of wildflowers (during summertime) with snow-capped peaks as your backdrop. It’s the kind of place that makes your heart skip a beat—and not just because of the altitude.
Crested Butte isn’t just another pretty face in Colorado’s collection of scenic towns. It’s THE place to be for couples who value adventure and intimacy over the pomp of traditional weddings. Whether you’re paddle boarding on a lake or hiking up a trail for an epic sunset view, having a Crested Butte elopement offers endless ways to make your day uniquely yours.
How to Get to Crested Butte
Crested Butte may feel like a hidden gem, but it’s surprisingly accessible. You can fly into either Denver International Airport (about a 4-hour drive) or Colorado Springs Airport (about a 3.5-hour drive). Both drives offer stunning views, so consider it an introduction to your epic elopement.
Best Season to Elope in Crested Butte
The “best” time of year to elope in Crested Butte really depends on your preferences and what you’re looking for in an elopement. What type of activities do you want to incorporate into your day? Also, keep in mind the weather can change quickly regardless of the season, so always be prepared with a backup plan or two, and bring layers!
If you want to catch the peak wildflower season, aim for the end of June to early August. But remember, Mother Nature doesn’t always check the calendar, so be flexible. The wildflowers can start blooming as early as the beginning of June and last into September, depending on the year’s weather patterns.
If golden aspen trees are your thing, fall is a no-brainer. The colors are incredible, and the crowds thin out after Labor Day. The weather can be a bit cooler, especially in the mornings and evenings, but nothing a cozy sweater (or snuggling up to your partner) can’t fix.
And what about the winter wonderland, anyone? If snow is your thing, Crested Butte in winter is a dream. Think cozy fires, snow-covered everything, and maybe even a sleigh ride. But keep in mind, some trails might be harder to access and you’ll have to bundle up!
Top Crested Butte Elopement Locations
One of the best things about eloping in Crested Butte? You don’t have to trek 20 miles uphill to find jaw-dropping scenery. Here are a few stunning locations that offer incredible views without requiring you to be a marathon hiker:
Emerald Lake
If you’re into turquoise waters that look like they were stolen from a Caribbean postcard, Emerald Lake is your place. The drive up is an adventure itself, so definitely get a 4×4 that can handle a gravel road, but once you arrive, you’re rewarded with an amazing view. The parking here is limited to about 10-15 vehicles, and there’s no restrooms or water, so you need to come very prepared (to the best of LNT principles!)
Marissa and Janiel explored Emerald Lake for their Crested Butte elopement and you can check it out for inspo!
Gothic Valley & Mountains
Gothic’s towering peak makes for a dramatic backdrop, and the base of the mountain offers several spots perfect for an intimate ceremony. Plus, the Gothic Road is a beautiful drive, especially during wildflower season.
Judd Falls
Waterfalls? Check. Lush greenery? Check. The short hike to the falls is easy and gives you access to both the waterfall and stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Snodgrass Mountain
Overlooking the town of Crested Butte, Snodgrass Mountain offers panoramic views without the steep climb. It’s the perfect spot for sunset vows with the entire valley laid out before you.
Teddy’s Trail
Last but not least, Teddy’s Trail gives you that perfect mix of foresty vibes and mountain views. It’s one of the lesser-known trails, and it’s ideal for couples looking for a quiet, off-the-beaten-path location.
Crested Butte Elopement Permits
While Crested Butte is pretty laid-back, you’ll need a special-use permit to hold your elopement ceremony and take photos in certain public lands. It’s essential to check with the Gunnison National Forest, Crested Butte Land Trust, or local authorities depending on where exactly you’re planning to elope. These permits are typically easy to obtain but should be secured well in advance of your big day to avoid any last-minute surprises.
If you choose me as your Colorado elopement photographer, I can help you get your permit and make sure that you’re following all the regulations!
Getting Your Marriage License
Getting married in Crested Butte or anywhere in Colorado is really easy. You can pick up your marriage license from any county clerk’s office in Colorado. The Gunnison County Clerk’s office is the closest option if you’re tying the knot in Crested Butte. The cost of a marriage license is $35. Colorado has no waiting period for marriage licenses, so you can get married the same day you apply for your license. You do not need to be a Colorado resident to get married in Colorado, but you will need to apply in person with a valid photo ID. Colorado residents with a Colorado mailing address may apply for their marriage license via mail.
Colorado is also the only state where you can legally marry yourselves through the process known as self-solemnization (and your dog can be your witness and sign the marriage license too!)
Self-solemnization is the process of marrying yourself without the need for an officiant. This means that you can have a completely private wedding, with just you and your partner present. BUT, as a Colorado elopement photographer, I do have to say that I highly recommend at least having a photographer present! You’re going to want your Colorado elopement photos!
Crested Butte Elopement Activities
So, you’ve exchanged your vows and now what? There’s so many awesome things you can do! You can hike, bike, or simply lounge around and take in the views. If you’re feeling adventurous, hit the trails for some epic mountain biking, or take a kayak out on one of the nearby lakes. If you’re eloping in the winter, hitting the slopes is a no-brainer. Crested Butte Mountain Resort offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the state. Want to keep it chill? How about a romantic picnic surrounded by wildflowers? Whatever your vibe is, you can make the day completely your own.
Here are some more elopement activity suggestions for you!
Accommodations & Logistics
When it comes to where to stay, Crested Butte has options ranging from cozy cabins to luxury lodges. Whether you’re looking for something intimate and secluded or a more upscale experience, there’s something for everyone. A few top picks include The Elevation Hotel and Spa, Scarp Ridge Lodge, and for a more rustic vibe, The Nordic Inn.
As for logistics, Crested Butte is a small town, so everything is pretty accessible. It’s a good idea to rent a car if you’re planning on exploring multiple locations. And don’t forget to account for the altitude! Crested Butte sits at 8,909 feet, so make sure to hydrate and give yourself time to acclimate.
Let’s Plan Your Crested Butte Elopement Together!
I hope this Crested Butte elopement guide was helpful! Because I believe planning your elopement should be fun, stress free and packed with meaningful moments that reflect your unique love story.
As your Colorado elopement photographer, I’m not just here to snap gorgeous photos, but to help you plan every detail, find the perfect location, navigate permits, and create a timeline that makes your day truly unforgettable. Whether you’re dreaming of eloping on a secluded beach, a mountaintop, or even in a national park, I’ve got you covered.
With my elopement packages, you’ll get personalized planning assistance, location scouting, permit help, and more. I’ll be there every step of the way, so you can focus on each other and the incredible adventure ahead. Oh, and did I mention you’ll get sneak peeks of your photos within 24 hours? Because capturing your day means everything to me!
To learn more about my photography services, check out my elopement portfolio or send me a message. I would be thrilled and honored to help you plan your special day!
