How to Elope in Colorado: A Guide for Couples

Fog is lifting at Dream Lake and you can see the Rocky Mountains starting to peak through the clouds.

HOW DO YOU ELOPE LEGALLY IN COLORADO | COLORADO ELOPEMENT LOCATIONS

Why Colorado is a great state to elope in:

Colorado is a beautiful state with so much to offer couples looking to elope. From epic mountain views to charming mountain towns, there’s something for everyone in Colorado, making it the perfect place to have an outdoor elopement. But what makes Colorado even more appealing for elopements is its incredibly easy marriage laws. In fact, Colorado is the only state in the country where you can legally marry yourselves through a process known as self-solemnization.

What is self-solemnization?

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! To self-solemnize in Colorado you’ll need to get a Colorado marriage license. You can do this at any county clerk’s office in Colorado. 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.

Once you have your marriage license, you can write your own vows and exchange them in any location that you choose. After that you’ll sign your marriage license and return it to the county clerk’s office. Oh, and did I mention that your dog could always be a witness, if you’d like to have one.

NEXT, THINK ABOUT WHERE YOU WANT TO ELOPE IN COLORADO…

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Location, location, location! There are sooo many beautiful places to elope in Colorado, including:

Rocky Mountain National Park
Aspen
Telluride
Breckenridge
Garden of the Gods
Vail
Estes Park
Boulder
Denver
Crested Butte- one of my personal FAVES! Read Marissa & Janiel’s story.

When choosing your elopement location in Colorado, consider your interests and what kind of atmosphere you’re looking for. Do you and your partner want to incorporate hiking into your day? Do you prefer the coziness of town? Are lake views a must?

Looking for more information on eloping in a National Park?

Bear Lake is one of the approved Rocky Mountain National Park elopement locations, and if you’re not looking to do a hiking elopement, this is a great option because the loop trail is only half a mile long.

COLORADO WEATHER AND HOW IT MAY AFFECT YOUR ELOPEMENT:

Another thing to consider when choosing an elopement location in Colorado is what type of weather you’d like. The “best” time of year to elope in Colorado 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? Read on for a month-by-month breakdown of the weather and what to expect in each season.

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Spring (April-May)

PROS:

Less crowded than the summer months
Trail conditions are improving
Wildflowers are starting to bloom

CONS:

Weather can be unpredictable
Some trails may still be snow-covered
Roads at higher elevations may be closed

Summer (June-August)

PROS:

Warm weather and sunny days
Beautiful wildflowers in bloom
Plenty of hiking and camping opportunities

CONS:

Can be crowded, especially in popular locations
Afternoon thunderstorms are common
Prices for lodging, transportation, and other services are higher this time of year

Fall (September-October)

PROS:

Fall foliage is in full swing
Cooler weather makes for comfortable hiking and camping
Less crowded than the summer months

CONS:

Some trails may be closed due to snow
Weather can be unpredictable

Winter (November-March)

PROS:

Epic snow-capped mountains
Empty trails and less crowds
Winter wonderland scenery

CONS:

Cold weather
Some trails and roads may be closed
Limited daylight hours

SO, TO RECAP.

If you’re thinking about eloping in Colorado, here is what you need to do:

Get a marriage license from the county clerk’s office.
Write your vows.
Choose an amazing elopement location.
Exchange your vows and sign your marriage license.
Hire a badass Colorado elopement photographer (oh heyyyyy):

COLORADO HIKING ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER

I can also help you with all of the details, such as making sure that your chosen location is approved. Some locations require applying for a permit several weeks in advance in order to get married there. As an elopement photographer, I will be able to help you with all of the necessary permits. This is a service that I include in my elopement packages.

I’ve photographed couples all over the country, and would love to help you plan your dream Colorado elopement! 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!

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