If you're dreaming of a wedding day filled with.....


...sweeping mountain views, alpine lakes, and peaceful trails instead of crowded ballrooms, and small talk, a Colorado elopement might be exactly what you’re looking for. And if you want dramatic peaks and untouched wilderness...there’s nowhere quite like the San Juan Mountains.

As an elopement photographer based in the San Juan mountains, I’ve created this detailed guide to help you plan your dream day, permits, locations, timelines, marriage licenses, and everything you need to know for an unforgettable adventure.


A bride holds her veil out of her face and looks back at her dog who stands near as her groom says vows to her near a mountain lake.
Close-up of a couple tenderly touching hands. On her hand is a diamond engagement ring in the outdoors with a soft green bokeh background.
An eloping couple stop on the hiking trail to give their dog kisses. They are wearing rain jackets and back packs and wedding attire.

Table of Contents:

  1. Why you should plan your San Juan Mountains elopement
  2. Where to elope in the San Juan Mountains
  3. When to Elope in the San Juan Mountains
  4. The best locations for your San Juan Mountains elopement
  5. Do you need a permit?
  6. Marriage license process
  7. Where to stay in the San Juan Mountains
  8. The best intimate wedding venues in the San Juan Mountains
  9. The most trusted vendors for your elopement or intimate wedding
  10. Planning your Colorado elopement in the San Juan Mountains
  11. Your San Juan Mountains elopement photographer


Why You Should Plan Your San Juan Mountains Elopement


As an both an elopement and a landscape photographer I can tell you these mountains hold so much beauty. There is a quiet reverence here that feels more sacred than a church to me. I have traveled all over the world as a landscape photographer, but I always return to these mountains. The light on the granite peaks at sunset and sunrise is sublime. The alpenglow catches my breath no matter how many times I've seen it. The quiet is extraordinary. The vastness and seclusion is healing on a very deep level.


Being able to help couples to explore these dramatic landscapes and say their vows in the quiet, the seclusion and the vastness of these mountains is an honor that I am grateful for. If you haven't seen much of these mountains prepare to be amazed by the beauty of these places.


Here’s why couples love it:

  • Epic landscapes: mountains, waterfalls, wildflowers, alpine lakes, hot springs… the list goes on. There are so many epic locations it is dizzying!
  • Self-solemnizing weddings: no officiant or witnesses required — you can even marry yourselves so it feels so authentic and intentional.
  • Year-round beauty: wildflowers in summer, golden aspens in fall, snow-covered peaks in winter. Each season brings different challenges but no matter what time of year you can always find something so beautiful to make your day special.
  • Endless adventure options: jeeping, hiking, paddleboarding, skiing, helicopter tours and even rock climbing experiences!



Bride and groom in western attire stand in meadow, groom wearing cowboy hat, snow-capped peaks of the San Juan Mountains in the background.

Where to stay for your San Juan Mountains Elopement


If you are up for a drive the San Juan mountains cannot be matched for their epic scenery, quiet secluded waterfalls, alpine lakes surrounded by mountains peaks, expansive open meadows of wildflowers, surrounded by aspen and utter quiet. The San Juan Mountains are in southwest Colorado. There are 3 main towns all within about 45 min from each other and each with their distinctive vibe. Often my couples will explore all 3 during their elopement days as they each have something unique to offer.


Telluride

A romantic, victorian mountain town surrounded by massive peaks, Telluride is the largest of the three towns and offers the most in terms of amenities and activity. The closest airport is Telluride Regional Airport, but since it’s quite small, flights there tend to be more expensive. Because of that, many people choose to fly into Montrose Regional Airport instead, which is about a 90-minute drive away. The journey itself is part of the experience, with incredible scenery along the way—including views of Mount Sneffels, one of the area’s iconic fourteeners.

While Telluride still holds onto its historic charm, it’s also a major destination thanks to the Telluride Ski Resort. The town has a wide range of places to stay, from upscale hotels to cozy cabins, along with excellent restaurants, boutique shopping, and inviting coffee spots. Mountain village is just a short drive or gondola ride from the town and is a very cool place to spend the afternoon. The surrounding landscape is just as impressive, with easy access to alpine lakes, scenic hiking trails, and vibrant aspen groves—making it a beautiful setting for an elopement.

Of the three towns, Telluride leans the most toward luxury. You’ll find plenty of high-end accommodations, from elegant resorts to secluded mountain rentals and unique off-grid stays. That said, costs can add up quickly, so if you’re aiming to keep things more budget-friendly, staying in nearby Ouray or Ridgway can be a smart alternative.


Ouray

Known as the “Switzerland of America” because of the dramatic peaks surrounding the town in steep basin, Ouray is centrally located in the San Juans and is the simplest to reach. Driving from Denver it will take you about five and a half hours, but you can fly right into Montrose Regional Airport, which is only about a 30–40 minute drive away. While it’s a smaller airport, it often offers nice flight options at prices comparable to Denver, and skipping the long drive can save you a full day of travel, which makes a big difference.

Ouray strikes a great balance between Telluride and Silverton. Besides being centrally located, Ouray doesn’t have the high-end price tag of Telluride, so you’ll find more budget-friendly places to stay and eat, yet it still offers more activity and convenience than a quieter, more remote town. You’ll have access to everything you need for a smooth and enjoyable elopement experience, including a well-stocked grocery store. On top of that, there’s no shortage of things to do, whether it’s relaxing in the world famous hot springs, visiting the local brewery with swing seats at the bar, hiking the Perimeter Trail, checking out Box Canyon Falls, or taking on the Via Ferrata you will find ample adventures to partake in!


Ridgway Colorado is 9 miles further north and is even a bit more affordable. There are numerous Airbnb's between Ouray and Ridgway so it opens up a range of places to stay. There is also great little grocery store there in Ridgway that provides some of the yummiest cakes and cheesecakes around making this a nice alternative to a formal wedding cake. You can buy by the slice or buy the whole cake.


Silverton

Remote, quiet, and incredibly scenic, Silverton is the smallest, and quietest of the 3 towns. It’s located about 45 minutes from Ouray, you’ll drive up the scenic and incredibly jaw dropping Million Dollar Highway to reach it. The Million Dollar Highway is one of the most beautiful roads in the entire country (if not the world), and is not to be missed! The town of Silverton is an old historic mining town, and is home to only 613 people. Although the town is tiny, there are some great lodging options, and some awesome restaurants. A lot of the best hiking and Jeeping trails are located just outside of Silverton as well, making it one of the best spots for an elopement. The Alpine loop begins here and will take you up into some of the most remote areas of the San Juans. Think epic views, huge wildflower basins and scenic lakes. Short hikes into the Weminuche Wilderness take you to secluded alpine lake basins where the alpenglow is to die for. This town is perfect for high alpine elopements, Jeeping, and sunrise ceremonies. Because the town is so remote and small, many of my couples will end up staying in Ouray, and we will just pop over to Silverton for their actual elopement.



A bride and groom stand in an intimate embrace in a large open meadow. The San Juan mountains are in the background with snow on the peaks.
A bride and groom stand in the San Juan mountains. They are facing away from the camera but looking at each other.

What season to say your vows for your San Juan Mountains Elopement


Every season in the San Juan Mountains offers just sublime beauty. Each season has something special to give and will offer different experiences and vibes to your elopement. In summer you get wildflower filled meadows, long days with dreamy sunrises and sunsets. This is when the high country is most accessible and Jeeping elopements are totally fun. For winter think later sunrises so more time to snuggle in bed, slower mornings with coffee, hot cocoa by the fire at night in your backcountry cabin and snow globe wedding moments. In fall, the aspens turn the entire mountainside golden and the light is warm and soft. Days are shorter but the world sparkles all around you in the glow from the golden aspens. Spring can be a tricky season as the weather is the most changeable. One day it is snowing, the next day it is sunny. We call it mud season in the San Juans. A spring elopement can be very beautiful, but having backup plans is essential because of that crazy weather.


Summer (Late June- August)

Summer is ideal if you’re dreaming of a day filled with extraordinary beauty. It’s the perfect time for hiking to high alpine lakes, rock climbing, tackling the via ferrata, or exploring rugged backcountry roads by Jeep. During the summer, the landscape is green, lush and vibrant. The mountain floor turn a rich green, meadows burst with tall wildflowers, and waterfalls run strong from melting snow. Alpine lakes take on that striking turquoise color that almost doesn’t look real.

If you’re aiming for peak summer conditions, the sweet spot is typically mid-July through mid-August. That’s when the wildflowers are at their best. Earlier in the season, some trails may still be snow-covered, and the holiday crowds around the Fourth of July can be busy making it harder to find seclusion for your vows. Later in August, the scenery is still beautiful, but many of the wildflowers begin to fade, so you won’t get quite the same colorful display.


Fall (September–Early October)

This time of year is one of the most magical times for photos! The mountains in fall are spectacularly beautiful, with vibrant red, orange and yellow colors blanketing the landscape, and fresh snow dusting the mountain peaks. Fog is common near the alpine lakes and moody conditions abound! This time of year can be busy so planning early is important to not miss out on the lodging and restaurants you want to book.

The fall is still a great time for outdoor activities as well. You can still do all of the Jeeping and hiking trails (unless an early snow hits), and the weather is wonderful this time of year. There is a briskness in the air, but it’s not too chilly!

The best dates for a fall elopement in the San Juans are going to be the last 2 weeks of September – the first week of October. Typically the fall colors peak during that first week of October, so this 3 week timeframe is always absolutely beautiful. Any dates before that, and you will miss out on any color (and will be stuck with dead wildflowers instead), and any dates after that you risk missing the peak, which means all the leaves will fall off the trees, and everything becomes barren. The later into October you get, the more likely chance of there being a big snow too, which can definitely mess up your elopement plans!


Winter (December–March)

Winter in the San Juan Mountains feels straight out of a postcard and creates an incredible setting for an elopement. The season brings a whole different kind of adventure, with activities like ice climbing, snowshoeing, and even snowmobiling adding to the experience. It’s a great choice if you want something unique and outdoorsy without sacrificing variety.

Despite being winter in the mountains, the weather is often more pleasant than you might expect. While snowstorms do roll through from time to time, many days are clear, bright, and sunny. And when fresh snow does fall, the scenery becomes especially magical, like being surrounded by a real-life snow globe.

For the best winter conditions, aim for a window between December and February. That’s when snow coverage is typically at its peak. Earlier in the season can be hit-or-miss if snowfall hasn’t fully set in yet, while later in the year brings the start of melt-off, when trails and roads can turn muddy and less accessible.


Spring (April–June)

Spring is a tricky situation in the San Juan mountains. The weather is always unpredictable. Sometimes in spring it warms up quickly making for easy access to some of the lower meadows and other times it snows and makes for frigid weather, inaccessible roads and difficult planning. For this reason I don't recommend a spring elopement unless you want to stick to lower elevations like our high deserts around Grand Junction. Waterfalls can be flowing at their strongest in this season but can also still be frozen and cold. If you do decide on a spring elopement, Ouray is low enough in elevation that many times we can find secluded spots near there. And the Million Dollar Highway is plowed regularly making some high mountain areas accessible. Just be prepared with snow boots, clothing such as long underwear under your dress and mittens, gloves and hats for sunset photos.

An eloping couple embracing in a mountain meadow during fall foliage, wearing wedding attire with snow-capped peaks behind.

The best places to say your vows for your San Juan Mountains Elopement

There are so many amazing places to say your vows in the San Juan Mountains. The accessibility will be a big factor in choosing a location. In winter less spots will be available unless you rent a snowmobile and likewise in summer the best spots will be places you will need a high-clearance, 4WD vehicle to get to. That being said, with a little planning you can say your vows in some of the most remote, rugged and breathtakingly beautiful spots on the planet in the San Juans. And the beautiful thing is many of these you can drive up to so you don't have to hike or do any adrenaline creating activity to access these amazing places. You don't have to spend thousands of dollars on a wedding venue when the mountains provide such stunning backdrops for your ceremony. Here are a few of my favorite locations:

Couple exchanging vows at an outdoor mountain wedding ceremony with lush green valleys and snow-capped peaks in background.

Yankee Boy Basin:

Yankee Boy Basin is one of the most well-known routes in the San Juan Mountains, and for good reason. It’s a relatively easy drive, making it accessible for most people, but still delivers some truly breathtaking scenery. As you make your way through the valley, you’re surrounded by sweeping mountain views, colorful wildflower fields, the dramatic presence of Mount Sneffels, and landmarks like the iconic Twin Falls, all set against a backdrop of vibrant greenery.

It’s easily one of my favorite spots for elopements thanks to how scenic and convenient it is. The accessibility also makes it a fantastic choice if you’re planning to include guests, since you don’t have to sacrifice incredible views to keep things simple and easy to reach.

Bride and groom stand hand-in-hand overlooking stunning mountain valley at golden sunset during outdoor elopement wedding ceremony.

Govenors Basin:

Governors Basin is another incredible trail, with some awesome wildflower viewing spots along the way up! Once you reach the top, you are rewarded with incredible views of the dramatic mountain peaks, alpine meadows, and old abandoned mines! The mountain views are unlike anything I’ve seen before! Just keep in mind, this spot is at a very high elevation, so make sure you are prepared!

Bride and groom stand on rocky alpine lake shore with misty mountain peaks and evergreen trees backdrop. The grasses are in fall color.

Gold King Basin:

Gold King Basin in the San Juan Mountains is a hidden gem that offers a quiet, off-the-beaten-path experience. It’s more rugged to reach than popular spots, but the drive rewards you with sweeping alpine views and increasing solitude.

Once there, you’ll find dramatic peaks, open basins, and a peaceful, secluded atmosphere. In summer, wildflowers and greenery add color while the high elevation keeps things crisp and alpine.

It’s an ideal location for adventurous couples wanting a private, untouched setting for an elopement—best suited for smaller groups who value privacy and dramatic mountain scenery.


Couple holding hands on a rocky peak with a turquoise alpine lake and snow-dusted peaks of the San Juan mountains in the background.

The Alpine Loop:

This location along the Alpine Loop is easily one of my favorite places anywhere. There’s something unforgettable about standing right at the edge, looking out over a massive valley below while you exchange vows with the wind moving all around you—it feels wild, powerful, and completely freeing.

It’s also one of the most incredible spots in the San Juan Mountains for sunset. As the light drops, the entire landscape glows, and the views just keep stretching on forever. If you’re dreaming of a dramatic, awe-inspiring setting to end your elopement day, it’s hard to find a place that compares.


Bride and groom walk hand-in-hand through a golden meadow with autumn aspen trees and snow-capped mountains behind them.

My Favorite Secret Spot:

This location is one of my favorites especially on a warm fall day. The basin and meadow here is lower in elevation and is easily accessible although a good high clearance vehicle helps!  In the summer you will find asters dotting the meadow and in fall the aspens line the mountains sides. You are surrounded by some of the mot iconic peaks Colorado has to offer.  When the sun goes over the ridge to the west these peaks take on the most beautiful alpenglow and the light become soft. The whole world around you feels gentle and reverent. A perfect place to say your vows in wild, gorgeous iconic landscapes.

If you want to hike...


If you want to do a bit of hiking be prepared for a long day and steep elevation, but also be ready for jaw dropping beauty. These hikes will show you the best of the San Juans but you may want to do them as backpacking elopements so you aren't hiking down or up in the dark. Safety is a concern for bears or mountain lions when hiking in the dark. But if you plan on camping out think, sunrise light on the peaks before any one is awake, lazy days spent in a hammock, sunset on the peaks and star photos followed by marshmallows by the fire.

Longer Hikes:

Lower and Upper Blue Lakes:

This hike can be accessed from Ridgway or from Yankee Boy Basin and has some of the most epic views along the way. Either way is going to be steep and roughly 3.5 miles one way. It will take about 3.5-4 hours to hike it due to the elevation. What you'll see is the most amazing, azure blue lake surrounded by rugged peaks. A waterfall is located just beyond the lake, pikas keep you company along the way. You will hear them calling to one another as you hike through the scree. Wildflowers are in abundance in mid to late July making this one of the best hikes to experience everything that is iconic to the San Juan Mountains.


Snow-capped mountain lake reflecting evergreen trees and wildflowers in a pristine alpine wilderness landscape.
Crystal clear turquoise alpine lake reflecting rocky mountains under blue sky with white clouds and green slopes.

Ice and Island Lakes:

Another absolutely stunning hike, though steep and challenging it is absolutely worth it to do at least once in your life. Ice Lake is aptly named for its ice blue, turquoise color and island lake is just as pretty with the same beautiful, azure blue color but with an island right in the middle. This again is a hike you might want to consider doing as a backpacking trip as it can be challenging to do all in one day.


Shorter Hikes:

Blain Basin and Wetterhorn Basin

Both Blain Basin and Wetterhorn Basin hikes can be very long, steep and challenging to get to the basins proper, but on each trail, within a mile are outstanding views and wildflower meadows. On a weekday you will likely have the place to yourself. Access to each trailhead is on a 4WD road, but the hikes are worth it as you can make them shorter without missing any of the beauty.


Do you need a permit?


Many public lands in Colorado do require a permit for ceremonies or photography. Here’s what you need to know:


National Forests (San Juan, Uncompahgre, Gunnison)

Two person elopements generally do not need a permit but if you plan on having guests (10-15 people) you will most likely require a Special Use Permit. Processing can take 4–8 weeks, so apply early. Restrictions may vary by location and season. As your elopement photographer I will help you to navigate which spots require a permit and how to secure them.


State Parks

All weddings require a permit and reservation.

  • Locations like Ridgway State Park are popular for easy access and lake views.



BLM Land

  • Rules vary; minimal setup elopements may not require a permit, but photography often does.
  • Always contact the local field office to confirm.



An eloping couple stand near each other with their dog at their feet in a dramatic mountain area with misty mountain peaks behind them.
A bride in white off-shoulder gown holds cocktail and feeds her groom in black suit wedding cake by an alpine lake near Breckenridge.
A bride taps her groom on the shoulder as part of a mountain elopement. Bride is in a lace wedding gown with her dog by her side.

 Marriage License Instructions for your San Juan Mountains Elopement

Colorado is one of the coolest states to elope in. Not only do you get those amazing views and the quiet, solitude of the mountains for your vows, but Colorado also makes getting married incredibly simple! To get married in Colorado you will need to pick up your marriage license from any county clerk's office. You can apply online or in person. I have an entire guide to the entire marriage license process. You can access it here:


Where to Get Your Marriage License

Any county clerk’s office can issue a license, but the most convenient for San Juan elopements include:

Marriage License Requirements

  • Both partners must be present with valid ID.
  • The fee is $30.
  • License is valid immediately and up to 35 days.
  • Return it within 63 days after your ceremony.

Self-Solemnization

  • Yes — you can officiate your own ceremony with no witnesses. You can even have your dog “sign” the license with a paw print (totally legal and adorable).
Bride and groom signing marriage certificate on a rock beside a mountain lake during an outdoor elopement ceremony.
A bride and groom help their dog to sign the marriage license with his nose near an alpine lake elopement ceremony.
A bride and groom show their black dog their marriage license after a lakeside elopement ceremony in the mountains near Telluride.

Best rental stays for your San Juan Mountains Elopement


Whether you choose to stay in an off grid cabin or right in town you won't regret being in these mountains for your elopement. Some of these options are pretty remote while others are in the hustle and bustle of town. Each can elevate your elopement making the day one of a kind and completely unique to you.


Cabin stays:

Bonnie Bell Cabin: Tucked high in the San Juan Mountains near Silverton, the Bonnie Bell Cabin is a beautifully preserved piece of Colorado’s mining history. Originally built in the late 1800s during the region’s silver boom, the cabin sits in a remote alpine basin surrounded by rugged peaks, wildflowers, and old mining remnants. Today, it’s a popular destination for photographers and hikers, especially in summer when the landscape comes alive with color, offering a quiet glimpse into the lives of those who once worked these high mountain claims. https://www.bonniebellecabin.com/


Red Mountain Alpine Lodge: Set high in the San Juan Mountains just south of Ouray, the Red Mountain Alpine Lodge offers an intimate, secluded setting perfect for an adventurous elopement. Surrounded by rugged peaks and historic mining landscapes, couples can exchange vows in a quiet alpine basin before retreating to the cozy lodge—blending wild, high-country beauty with a warm, romantic escape. https://redmountainalpinelodge.com/


The Observatory at Alta Lakes: The Observatory at Alta Lakes near Telluride is a secluded alpine retreat perfect for an intimate elopement surrounded by high mountain peaks and a pristine lake at over 11,000 feet. The property features a cozy historic lodge and a small outdoor wedding area right on the lake, offering multiple natural spots for vows with an incredible backdrop in every direction. The lodge sleeps up to about 12 guests, making it ideal for a true micro-wedding where your closest people can stay together and share the entire experience in one private mountain setting. https://www.altalakes.com/

A bride and groom walk hand in hand towards a rustic cabin in the mountains. Their dog walks beside them. The grasses are in fall color.
Rustic wooden cabin interior with vintage water skis labeled Alta Lakes mounted above a doorway leading to a deck.
Bride in lace wedding gown with veil stands by rustic log cabin window near stone fireplace.

Closer to Town:


Silverton:

The White House: If you want something a bit more luxury, the White House is a great spot to lay your heads. What I love about the white house is it is two separate apartments in one house. You can rent the entire house with all the amenities - two kitchens, two living rooms, four bathrooms, four bedrooms so you can bring your best people with you while you have your own space and save on renting two different spaces. Sleeps comfortably 8-10. Or if it is just you two, you can rent just one of the apartments, top or bottom. It features free street parking with 2-3 private parking spaces in the back. Walking distance to shops and restaurants in downtown Silverton. https://www.vrbo.com/2678702


The Wyman Hotel: The Wyman Hotel is a perfect stay for eloping couples looking for a blend of historic charm and intimate mountain-town atmosphere. Set right on Silverton’s main street, it offers easy access to dramatic San Juan Mountain scenery while keeping everything walkable and convenient. Inside, the hotel feels cozy, stylish, and personal, ideal for a relaxed elopement experience where you can get ready together, unwind after your ceremony, and share quiet moments with your closest people.

With its small size and thoughtful design, the Wyman naturally keeps things intimate, making it a beautiful home base for a wedding experience that feels simple, private, and deeply connected to the mountains. https://thewyman.com/


Ouray:

Downtown Loft: This set of loft apartments are located right on Ouray’s historic Main Street, these beautiful vacation rentals put you at the center of everything. You can choose from a spacious 2-bedroom, 2-bath loft or a cozy 1-bedroom, 1-bath studio—both offering modern comfort and unbeatable access to shops, dining, and outdoor adventures. They offer you an easy walk to the Ouray Hot Springs Pool, explore nearby trails, and end your day relaxing on the private deck with mountain views. With gourmet finishes, thoughtful amenities, and a location that can’t be beat, this is the perfect base for your Ouray getaway. https://bookvrc.com/vacation-rentals/736-1-2-a-main-street


The Beaumont Hotel: The Beaumont Hotel & Spa is a beautiful choice for eloping couples looking for historic charm paired with elevated, intimate luxury in the heart of the San Juan Mountains. Set right on Main Street, the hotel blends turn-of-the-century elegance with modern comfort, placing you steps away from Ouray’s dramatic alpine scenery, restaurants, and mountain-town character. It’s ideal for couples who want everything close by while still feeling tucked into a romantic, historic setting.

With its boutique size and thoughtfully designed rooms, the Beaumont creates a quiet, private atmosphere, perfect for getting ready together, slowing down after your ceremony, and enjoying a cozy, celebratory stay. https://beaumonthotel.com/

Looking up through a rectangular skylight of the Beaumont Hotel with metal grid frame, revealing blue sky and clouds, surrounded by lights.
The grand Victorian hotel lobby of the Beaumont hotel with ornate staircase, skylight, balcony railings, wall clock, and decorative plants.
Antique Gothic Revival wooden armchair with ornate carved details and green velvet upholstery in a Victorian interior in the Beaumont hotel

Telluride:

Architectural Masterpiece:APrepare to be blown away by the exquisite architecture and views that just don't stop. I GUARANTEE THIS WILL BE THE MOST AMAZING AIRBNB EVER! And doesn't your elopement deserve something epic like this!?  This modern mountain home was just remodeled and sits on over 2 acres. This is perfect for being present to say your vows on private land overlooking Mt. Wilson. It is nestled in an aspen forest making it the perfect place to spend time together just the two of you, yet it is less than 5 miles from the heart of Telluride and only 3 miles to the Mountain Village parking garage that has ski-in/ski-out access and a free gondola that drops you right into Telluride. This home can sleep up to 8 people. The master suite has a private entrance and hot tub access, an ensuite bathroom, a jacuzzi bathtub, a king bed, a desk, and a loft space. This home is a dream getaway for a private retreat or to bring just a few of your best friends to be with you on your elopement day. If you want to check this one out here's the link: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/51131248?source_impression_id=p3_1769047284_P3KgrGQbILRVG6Da Check out the pics below!


The New Sheridan Hotel: one of the most iconic stays in town, right on Main Street. It blends historic mountain-town character with walkable access to restaurants, shops, and the gondola. For eloping couples, it’s especially nice for a relaxed, car-free experience, step outside and you’re instantly in the heart of Telluride’s alpine charm, with epic mountain views just minutes away. This historic in-town hotel is perfect for convenience and classic Telluride atmosphere. It also features a top-notch restaurant with a great wine and dessert list! https://newsheridan.com/


Modern architectural home with floor-to-ceiling glass walls illuminated at dusk, surrounded by lush trees.
Luxury mountain cabin living room with floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing stunning Mt Wilson in Telluride and modern furnishings.

What to Pack for Your San Juan Mountains Elopement


Weather changes fast in the mountains. There are a few NECESSITIES! Make sure to bring the following:

  • A backpack will help a lot! Make sure it can hold snacks, water, gloves and solid, supportive shoes so you don't have to be in your fancy shoes when we walk on ueven ground.
  • Layers: because it can be cold in the morning and hot in the afternoon. Summer showers can cool things off quickly even mid day.
  • Hiking shoes or boots: a turned ankle or a slip and fall can really put a damper on the day.
  • Water & snacks: high elevations can dehydrate you fast and hiking can burn a lot of calories, keep your fire fueled with protein and trail mix. Don't forget snacks and water for your doggo too if he/she is going to join in the adventure.
  • Gloves/hand warmers: (even in summer at sunrise it can be cold!)
  • Sunscreen & SPF lip balm: high mountain air can be thin and sunburns occur quickly (that might slow down your wedding night, just saying)
  • Headlamps if hiking in the dark: sunrise happens early and sunset very late especially in the summer. Best to be prepared!
  • Clear umbrellas: for gorgeous rainy-day photos (I have these btw, so I always come prepared when we go out together)


A closeup of bride changing from her high heel shoes back into her tennis shoes. She is squatting down and unzipping the back of her heels.
A bride and groom on a hiking elopement stand with their dog between them. The bride is lifting her dress to reveal hiking shoes.
A closeup of bride changing from her high heel shoes back into her tennis shoes. She is squatting down and unzipping the back of her heels.

The best intimate wedding venues for a San Juan Mountains Elopement


An elopement doesn't have to exclude anyone, especially your best people. Some of my couples have chosen to include their family and friends on their elopement day and it is very easy with an intimate wedding venue. This option allows you to still have a private day but include your favorite people for a small ceremony and a nice dinner. This day can look so many different ways but here are a couple options.

  • A sunrise hike with private vows then returning to an intimate wedding location for public vows and/or a reception with good food and drinks.
  • An adventurous day with your partner, hiking, rock climbing, paddle boarding etc, then return in the late afternoon for a group dinner, catered meal, private chef, or casual reception.
  • Family friendly activities in the morning followed by a sunset hike or off road to a lookout where private vows are said. If you are jeeping this can include a second jeep with your closest family if you want to share that with parents, friends or loved ones.

The beauty is it's all up to you. You get to choose how and who you include. As your elopement photographer, I can help plan a day that makes sense for you without compromising anything and without excluding anyone if you choose to include family and friends.


If you are considering a small wedding with your best people, here are a few of my favorite small venues in the San Juan Mountains:


San Sofia Overlook in Telluride: A stunning stunning mountaintop ceremony site perched above town with sweeping views of the entire valley and surrounding San Juan peaks. It’s accessed by riding the free Telluride Gondola to the San Sophia mid-station, followed by a short walk along a scenic path to the overlook. From there, you step onto a simple wooden deck with a wide alpine amphitheater backdrop that feels made for vows at sunrise or sunset. There is typically no entrance fee to visit, but there is a fee to reserve the space for a ceremony through Telluride Ski Resort. Allred's Restaurant is a fine dining restaurant at the mid-station which makes a perfect place for a celebratory meal after your vows! https://www.telluride.com/business/san-sophia-overlook/


Gold Mountain Ranch in Ouray: A private 1,200-acre mountain escape perched high above town, offering sweeping San Juan Mountain views and total seclusion for intimate elopements. Couples can exchange vows at scenic spots like The Overlook, designed for micro-weddings of up to about 12 guests, surrounded by dramatic peaks and open alpine space. The ranch also offers on-site lodging, making it easy to turn your elopement into a relaxed, multi-day mountain experience. It’s a place that feels both wild and intentional, perfect for couples who want privacy, scenery, and everything in one unforgettable setting. https://www.goldmountainranch.com/


The Wyman Hotel in Silverton: The Wyman Hotel is a beautiful micro-wedding venue that combines historic charm with modern mountain style right in the heart of town.

With its cozy indoor dining room and scenic outdoor courtyard, it’s ideal for intimate celebrations of roughly 10–50 guests, all in one walkable, private-feeling space.

Couples love it because everyone can stay on-site, get ready together, and flow easily from ceremony to dinner without ever leaving the property. https://thewyman.com/




The most trusted vendors for your San Juan mountains elopement or intimate wedding


Hiring someone for your florals, your wedding cake, your hair and makeup and your photography is a big decision and can have a big impact on the beauty of your day. As an elopement photographer I always want my couples to hire vendors that have a strong reputation and know how to handle the challenges of an elopement; think about weather challenges such as wind and rain, early morning starts or late night returns, mini cakes or charcuterie boards and champagne sets up. These vendors know how to handle these challenges. You may want your elopement to be much more low key, but if you decide to go big on some (or all of these categories) these vendors are some of the best and can help elevate your day to extraordinary. It is your wedding day after all, shouldn't it be beautiful!?


An elegant wedding flat lay featuring a bolo tie, rings in green ring boxes, pink flowers and a bottle of bourbon. Vow books are present.

Photographer


If you take one thing to heart while planning your elopement, let it be this: choose your photographer first. Not just because of the photos, though those matter more with time than almost anything else, but because the right photographer becomes something more. A guide. A steady presence. Someone who quietly shapes the entire experience without ever taking it over.


When you’re navigating a place as wild and vast as the San Juans, that kind of guidance isn’t just helpful, it changes everything. Elopements here aren’t always straightforward. The light shifts quickly, access can be unpredictable, and the difference between a crowded overlook and complete solitude often comes down to knowing the land intimately. That’s why it matters who you trust to lead you through it. If you’re drawn to the San Juans, I understand, this is where I feel most at home. I’ve spent so much of my time exploring these mountains. I have learned their rhythms, their seasons, their quieter corners. I know where the wildflowers linger longest, which alpine lakes hold onto their water late into fall, and where you can stand together and hear nothing but wind moving through the aspens.


When I help you plan your day, it’s not about picking a popular location. It’s about finding a place that feels like it was meant for you, whether that’s a high basin at sunrise, a large mountain meadow, or a waterfall tucked away where no one will be around.


What I bring isn’t just experience photographing elopements, though that’s there too, it’s a genuine connection to this landscape. A kind of attentiveness that comes from loving a place deeply and wanting others to experience it in a way that feels real and unhurried. These mountains have a way of holding moments differently. I’d love to help you find yours.



A bride and groom sit in two wooden chairs in a mountain meadow. They are looking at the mountains. His arm is around the back of her chair.
Couple sharing romantic embrace on rocky mountain overlook with evergreen trees and red cliffs at golden hour.
Bride and groom share a romantic moment in a mountain meadow with snow-capped peaks and pine trees in the background.

Florists:

Florals have a subtle way of elevating your elopement, adding beauty and intention to the day. The right florist can create something that not only feels elegant, but also reflects the landscape around you, making your bouquet truly one of a kind. Here are a few of my favorite florists for a San Juan Mountains elopement:



Hair and Makeup:

If you want to be completely pampered on your day hiring a hair and make-up artist is the way to go. Be sure to find someone who understands and has experience working with brides that will be outdoors in the elements so that your hair can hold up for all the adventure. Here are a few artists I recommend.




Bakers:

A wedding cake is a perfect way to celebrate and these local bakers can create mini cakes that are perfect for taking along on your adventure for a decadent sweet treat that you can eat up slowly and not share with anyone but each other. Or you can get a more traditional cake if you are opting for an intimate wedding with your favorite people as part of your elopement.




Jeep Rentals and Guides:

If you want to see the best of the best country in the San Juan mountains hiring a Jeep guide company is the way to go. All three companies here are experienced on our steep mountain passes and are knowledgeable about getting you where you want to go at the best times for gorgeous backdrops and light. They help create a seamless experience for my eloping couples and I highly recommend them for your day!



Planning your San Juan Mountains Elopement


The San Juan mountains are beautiful all the time but especially at sunrise and sunset. Planning your elopement around the light is my best advice. Sunset and sunrise is when the landscape is at its most beautiful. A sunrise or sunset package will allow you to be in the mountains when they are most quiet, most secluded and most breathtaking. Here are a couple ideas for what your elopement could look like.


Sunrise Adventure Elopement

  • 4:30 am — Meet up and begin travel to location
  • 5:45 am — Change into wedding attire
  • 6:10 am — Private vows during sunrise
  • 7:00 am — Portraits around alpine lake
  • 8:30 am — Champagne + breakfast picnic
  • 10:00 am — Optional second location or jeep tour

Sunset Jeep Elopement

  • 2:00 pm — Getting-ready photos
  • 3:00 pm — Jeep up to viewpoint
  • 4:30 pm — Ceremony overlooking peaks
  • 5:00 pm — Golden hour portraits
  • 6:45 pm — Sunset picnic
  • 8:00 pm — Stargazing photos


An eloping couple share coffee at sunrise by an alpine lake with dramatic mountain peaks behind them. She is in a black down coat.
A bride and groom share a celebratory champagne pop near an alpine lake with mountain peaks around them on a cloudy day.
A groom hugs his bride from behind on a hiking trail. They and their dog are looking out over he valley of pine trees and mountains.

Your San Juan Mountains Elopement Photographer


If you've read this far and are feeling overwhelmed I get it. You've never planned an elopement before. But I have. I've got you! As your San Juan mountains elopement photographer, I can help plan the entire day so you both can just sit back, have a stress-free day of fun, adventure and intention.


All of my packages include personalize elopement planning including:

  • Location recommendations and a personalized location planning guide:
  • As a local I know the best places for each season and can help lead you to places that will take your breath away. You won't have to worry about maps or timelines, just peace and a meaningful day together.
  • Assistance with permits + logistics
  • Because you don't want have to be googling all this stuff when I know it already. I can take that weight off your shoulders so you can just sit back and enjoy the day together, all love, no stress.
  • Custom timeline planning
  • I will help you get there at the best times of light and build in time for rest and relaxation so that your day feels calm instead of chaotic.
  • Weather + road condition guidance
  • The weather in the mountains can be challenging but I know these places well, I will have a plan B and plan C for us so even if the weather throws us a curve ball I've got you covered.
  • Vendor suggestions:
  • I've worked with some of the best in the area and can recommend them to my couples so that there is no guessing or googling. You can spend your time with each other being present and enjoying the planning process rather than having to vet or search out vendors.
  • Activity planning for those fun adventures:
  • Because you never have planned an elopement in the mountains before, but I have! I can help you find paddleboards to rent, help plan a picnic, help you choose that epic helicopter tour or book that sweet couples massage in the coolest, private hot spring.


And of course, I will be there documenting your story in an honest, beautiful, way.

Ready to start planning your San Juan Mountains Elopement?


Whether you imagine saying your vows beside an alpine lake at sunrise or dancing together under a sky full of stars, the San Juan mountains have everything you are dreaming of for a day that feels, quiet, reverent and completely you.

If you’re ready to bring your dream elopement to life in the San Juan Mountains, I’d love to help you plan it.

Reach out and let's start planning your elopement!

An eloping couple in wedding attire sitting on rocky mountain summit with white dog jumping up between them and scenic snowy peaks backdrop.