PLanning / best places to elope in colorado / Aspen
Aspen Elopement Guide
Locations, photographers & packages
HOW TO ELOPE IN ASPEN: UPDATED FOR 2026
Ultimate guide to the best places to get married in Aspen, Colorado
Aspen elopements are for the couples who want big mountain views and luxury to match. It’s not the laid-back, flannel-and-beer kind of mountain town – it’s designer boots, incredible food, and 5 star hotels. You still get the dramatic Rocky Mountain scenery Aspen is known for – towering peaks, alpine landscapes, and unreal backdrops – but paired with a boujee town and an experience that feels elevated from start to finish. There’s a reason it’s where all the celebrities go!
As experienced Aspen elopement photographers, we’re here to guide you through how to elope in Aspen, the best locations, seasons, and expert tips to help you plan the perfect day.
Savannah & Greg
the team behind authentic collective
Aspen Elopement Photographers
photo, video & planning
Hey, we’re Sav & Greg! As Aspen elopement photographers, videographers, and planners, we specialize in turning this beautiful mountain town into the perfect setting for your dream elopement. We know all the best hidden gems and scenic spots to make your experience truly unforgettable.
Planning an elopement can feel overwhelming, but that’s where we come in. We guide you every step of the way—from choosing the perfect location to crafting a seamless timeline that takes advantage of the best light and most epic views. Our goal? To make your day stress-free, fun, and filled with moments you’ll treasure forever.
100+ 5 star reviews
Reasons To Elope In Aspen
Here are some of the top reasons to elope in Aspen, Colorado:
Beautiful Landscapes
Aspen is located a 3-4 hour scenic drive from Denver in Colorado. It offers breathtaking scenery year-round! Whether you’re surrounded by snow-capped peaks in the winter or lush greenery in the summer, the natural beauty provides an unforgettable backdrop for your elopement.
Upscale Mountain Town
Aspen is one of the most boujee mountain towns in Colorado. This can be a pro or a con, depending how you look at it! On one hand it’s luxurious and offers delicious dining options, upscale lodging, etc. On the other hand, it is one of the most expensive places to visit in Colorado.
endless activities
Aspen is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, with plenty of activities to enjoy together before or after your elopement. From skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding in the summer, you can create memorable experiences as you celebrate your love.
How To Plan An Aspen Colorado Elopement
A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE
Planning your first elopement can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! As experienced Aspen elopement photographers, we’ve helped countless couples navigate this exciting journey, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you plan your dream elopement in Aspen:
1 HIRE A PHOTOGRAPHER
Most couples book us before they begin planning, and for good reason! We’re here to help with all the logistics, from choosing the perfect date and locations to navigating permits, finding local vendors, and more. You don’t have to tackle everything on your own—we’re here to make the process seamless and stress-free.
2 CHOOSE YOUR LOCATION
Once you’ve set a date with us, you’ll gain access to our exclusive Aspen location guide. This resource makes it easy to find the perfect location(s) that match your vision, along with all the details you’ll need to secure any necessary reservations or permits.
3 PLAN OUT THE DETAILS
Next, you’ll book your lodging, transportation, and any additional vendors like a hair and makeup artist, florist, etc. (don’t worry, we’ll provide local recommendations for these). Together, we’ll create a timeline that includes all the locations and activities you want while ensuring we capture stunning photos throughout the day. Don’t forget to secure your marriage license ahead of the big day!
4 GET MARRIED!
Your elopement day will be unforgettable, and we’ll be there to capture every magical moment! Within a few days, you’ll receive sneak peek photos in your inbox, and your full gallery will be ready within 2–3 months. From there, the only thing left to do is decide which photos to print and cherish forever!
When To Elope In Aspen
The best time to elope in Aspen is late June to September for summer, the last week of September to mid-October for fall colors, or January to March for winter elopements. It depends on your preferences and priorities! Keep in mind that many locations become inaccessible in the winter until spring and sometimes even early summer and late fall due to snow. Here’s a breakdown of the typical climate in Aspen and different seasons in Aspen:
Spring Aspen Elopement
April, May & June
While April and May are unpredictable, June in Aspen is absolutely magical. The mountains are often dusted snow and with fewer crowds, you’ll enjoy more privacy, and the mild temperatures make it an ideal time for an Aspen elopement!
If you’re considering eloping at Maroon Bells in Aspen, Colorado- you will need to wait until June as that is when it reopens for the year. It is possible to elope there during the winter, which we will explain soon, but it is much less accessible.
Summer Aspen Elopement
July & August to mid September
Summer in Aspen is a dream for elopements, with open mountain passes, clear trails, and perfect conditions. Plus, the long days provide plenty of time to explore and celebrate! While mid-day temperatures can get warm (around 80 degrees), mornings and evenings remain refreshingly cool.
Keep in mind that afternoon thunderstorms are common in Colorado’s mountains during summer. The good news? These can often be avoided by planning your ceremony at sunrise or sunset, when the light is stunning, and the weather is more predictable.
Fall Aspen Elopement
Mid-September To Mid-October
Aspen is renowned for its breathtaking fall foliage, with aspen trees turning vibrant shades of gold, orange, and red. Plan your elopement during peak foliage season, typically from late September to early October, to capture the stunning colors in your wedding photos.
However, keep in mind that fall in Aspen changes slightly each year, and can be hit or miss. Be prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way!
Winter Aspen Elopement
November to march
Aspen in winter is pure magic. Snow blankets the landscape, creating a romantic and enchanting setting for your elopement. If you love winter sports like skiing or snowboarding, this could be the perfect time to tie the knot.
Be prepared for cold temperatures and snowy conditions, and consider having an indoor backup location in case of storms. The road to Maroon Bells closes in mid-October due to avalanche risk, but snowmobile tours can still take you there for a truly adventurous elopement experience.
Choose A Weekday And Time Wisely
We highly recommend planning your elopement on a weekday (Monday through Thursday) to avoid crowds and ensure a more intimate experience. Sunrise or sunset is the perfect time to say “I do,” offering both stunning lighting for photos and added privacy away from the hustle and bustle of the day.
Check for Local Events
When picking your wedding date, be mindful of local events that could affect your elopement. Aspen hosts a variety of events each year, including races, festivals, and the famous hot air balloon gatherings. These can draw large crowds and impact availability or privacy. To stay ahead, check the Aspen Snowmass event calendar for up-to-date information on what’s happening around your chosen date!
Best Places To Elope In Aspen
Elopement Locations
0 to 15 guests
Eloping just the two of you, or inviting up to 15 guests? You can elope outdoors on public land such as National Forest locations.
Small Wedding Venues
15+ guests
If you have more than 15 guests, a small venue or reservable ceremony location is more suitable for your group size.
AirBnB & VRBOs
elopements and small weddings
Consider a vacation rental for your venue, which varies depending on group size.
Best Places To Elope In Aspen
Maroon Bells is the most iconic locations for Aspen elopements and micro weddings – but there’s more to Aspen than just that! Especially if you’re down for a hike or off-roading adventure, there are many other elopement locations near Aspen. Aspen has no shortage of iconic views – but the right elopement location depends on guest count, season, accessibility, and how private you want things to feel. That’s why we provide custom location guides with hidden gem spots to our booked elopement clients! Here are some of the most popular and scenic places to elope in Aspen:
Maroon Bells
Maroon Bells is the highlight of Aspen, featuring the most recognizable mountains in Colorado. If you have guests, you’ll need to reserve the amphitheater. If you’re eloping just the two of you, we know of lots of epic spots we can go to (and how to avoid the crowds)!
GROUP SIZE: 0-50
COST: free – $200
aspen mountain
Want epic views without the hike? There are several gondolas in Aspen that provide access to the ski slopes and other scenic areas, or you can drive up if you have a 4×4. One of the most well-known gondolas in Aspen is the Silver Queen Gondola, which takes visitors up to the top of Aspen Mountain.
SILVER QUEEN GONDOLA TO ASPEN MOUNTAIN, ELK CAMP GONDOLA TO SNOWMASS, EXHIBITION CHAIRLIFT TO ASPEN HIGHLANDS OR SUMMIT EXPRESS CHAIRLIFT TO BUTTERMILK
independence pass
High-alpine, sweeping mountain views with roadside access make Independence Pass perfect for couples who want epic scenery without a long hike. It’s seasonal (typically open late spring through fall) and weather-dependent, but absolutely stunning on a clear day. Nearby to other trails and hidden gems.
360 degree mountain views
Elope At A Lake
Maroon Lake is the most beautiful lake in Aspen that doesn’t require hiking to get to. If you’re up for hiking and a bit of a drive, there are many other scenic lakes around Aspen that are less busy.
MAROON LAKE, CRATER LAKE, LOST MAN LAKE, AMERICAN LAKE, CATHEDRAL LAKE, SNOWMASS LAKE, CONUNDRUM HOT SPRINGS, GENEVA LAKE, THOMAS LAKES, AND RUEDI RESERVOIR.
Ashcroft
Ashcroft offers wide-open alpine meadows, mountain backdrops, and a quieter, more natural feel than many of Aspen’s more well-known spots. This area feels tucked away and peaceful, with space to breathe and incredible views in every direction.
Open meadows, streams and aspens
Grottos Trail
The Grottos is a unique elopement option just outside of Aspen, known for its dramatic rock formations, waterfalls, and seasonal ice caves. It’s easily accessible, requires little to no hiking, and feels adventurous without being strenuous – making it a great choice if you want something visually interesting and a little different from the classic alpine overlook.
waterfalls, rock formations, ice caves
snowmass village
Great for couples staying in Snowmass who want alpine scenery with fewer crowds than Aspen. There are hikes starting in town that lead to beautiful views.
close to town, lesser traveled
Want to find the best hidden spots?
The best elopement locations in Aspen aren’t easily found online. To uncover those truly hidden gems, you need a photographer who’s spent time exploring, hiking, and personally scouting the area.
We offer our couples an exclusive Aspen elopement location guide, a custom timeline, personalized vendor recommendations, and even lodging suggestions to make planning effortless!
Wedding Venues In Aspen Colorado
If your wedding guest list includes 15 or more people, reserving a dedicated space like a small venue might be the best choice for your celebration. Here are some of the most popular wedding venues in Aspen, Colorado:
Little Nell
Aspen, Colorado
The Little Nell is a luxury wedding venue in Aspen. The wedding deck and overlook features breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and is accessible via gondola or jeep ride, which adds an element of adventure and excitement to the wedding day.
GROUP SIZE: 0-250
AVAILABILITY: Year round
COST: $$$
The Cabin
Aspen, Colorado
The Cabin (formerly Lynn Britt Cabin) is a quaint log cabin nestled among the aspens. It overlooks the mountains and features a fire pit, outdoor deck and more.
COST : $$ (STARTING AT $11,000)
AVAILABILITY : YEAR ROUND
GUESTS : 200 PERSON CAPACITY
INTIMATE WEDDING & ELOPEMENT PACKAGES AVAILABLE
Pine Creek Cook house
Aspen, Colorado
Pine Creek Cookhouse, located just outside of Aspen, is a restaurant with a stunning view that can accommodate small, weekday ceremonies on their lawn.
COST : $
AVAILABILITY : SUMMER & FALL
GUESTS : 160 PERSON CAPACITY
INTIMATE WEDDING & ELOPEMENT PACKAGES AVAILABLE
T-Lazy-7 Ranch
Aspen, Colorado
Located only 15 minutes from Maroon Bells, this is the closest venue to the amphitheater making it a great choice for your wedding reception! You can also have your ceremony here as they have a ceremony meadow with stunning mountain views.
GROUP SIZE: 0-50
AVAILABILITY: Year round
COST: $5000
Ashcroft Ghost Town
Aspen, Colorado
A unique, historic venue for couples who want an intimate, rustic ceremony. This venue is ceremony-only, with no chairs, tables, tents, or other décor allowed. The cost is $400 plus tax, and capacity is limited to 70 guests. Perfect for fall!
GROUP SIZE: 0-70
AVAILABILITY: Year round
COST: $400
Rent a shelter at a public park
Aspen Parks and Recreation offers a variety of shelter rentals for events and gatherings. Keep in mind that the surrounding locations are public even if you’ve reserved a shelter, so don’t expect complete privacy at these locations. Rental fees and availability may vary depending on the park and the time of year.
RIO GRANDE PARK, KOCH LUMBER PARK, WILLOUGHBY/LIFT 1, HERRON PARK, WAGNER PARK, MOLLIE GIBSON PARK, PROMONTORY PARK, JOHN DENVER SANCTUARY, HARMONY PARK, FOX CROSSING PARK
The Cliffhouse (at the top of Summit Express Lift) – This mountaintop location offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, making it a picturesque and romantic setting for a wedding. It’s modern interior features floor-to-ceiling windows, a spacious deck, and a cozy fireplace.
Aspen Meadows Resort – A modern, spacious venue in Aspen that can accommodate weddings of all sizes. With separate options for both intimate and large-scale weddings, it can host up to 300 guests. Choose from a variety of ceremony and/or reception options such as Anderson Park, Bass Terrace and more.
St. Regis Aspen: One of the most prestigious wedding venues in Aspen, the St. Regis offers timeless luxury and a variety of event spaces, including ballrooms and outdoor terraces. With a capacity of up to 600 guests, this venue is ideal for large, upscale weddings.
Sky High Lodge Glenwood Springs is a vacation rental venue with stunning mountain views, perfect for an intimate ceremony and reception. Just over an hour drive from Maroon Bells in Aspen.
Dunbar Ranch
Spring Creeks Ranch – Located about 30 minutes outside of Aspen, Spring Creeks Ranch offers really nice mountain views. Starting at just $5000 for weekday weddings, this is one of the more affordable small wedding venues in Aspen, Colorado.
The Gant Aspen: A charming and elegant venue in the heart of Aspen, offering private event spaces for up to 100 guests.
Elk Camp: A breathtaking wedding venue located at Snowmass, Elk Camp provides a luxurious mountain experience. The venue requires a $3,000 rental fee, a food and beverage minimum of $25,000–$35,000, and a three-hour gondola rental. It can accommodate up to 300 guests, though a minimum of 200 guests is recommended.
The Limelight Inn is a luxurious hotel located in Snowmass Village. They have a ceremony location, the Snowmass Wedding Terrace, which overlooks the surrounding mountains and is perfect for outdoor ceremonies. It features a meadow surrounded with aspen trees and mountain views.
Smith Cabin Aspen
Cloud Nine Bistro
VRBO & AirBnB Weddings In Aspen, Colorado
If you’re dreaming of a scenic estate in Aspen for your micro wedding ceremony or a cozy home to celebrate after your elopement, there are a few key things to know about booking an Airbnb or VRBO for your wedding.
For hosting guests, we recommend choosing a VRBO that allows events, as they have clearer policies on gatherings. If it’s just the two of you, an Airbnb can work, but be mindful of restrictions. Dive into our full guide on finding the perfect VRBO or Airbnb wedding venue, or explore our top vacation rentals in Aspen below!
Best VRBOs In Aspen
- Perfect View Aspen ! (Events Allowed)
- Stunning View Estate (Events Allowed)
- Twin Creeks Ranch (Events Allowed)
- Red Mountain Property (Events Allowed)
- Swish Chalet (Events Allowed)
- Sky High Lodge (Events Allowed)
- Luxury Vacation Rentals
Lodging In Aspen
Just looking for lodging and wondering where to stay? Anywhere in Aspen proper (downtown/West End) is the easiest – you’ll be walkable to restaurants, coffee, and everything that makes Aspen feel like Aspen.
If you want a little more space (and sometimes better value), Snowmass Village is a great option – it’s about 20 minutes from Aspen and has tons of condo-style lodging. If you’re trying to keep costs down, you can also look at Basalt or Carbondale (typically ~30-45 minutes to Aspen depending on weather/traffic) – you’ll trade convenience for price.
We recommend searching Airbnb + VRBO for your dates (and filtering for pet-friendly if you’re bringing your pup). But if you want some solid “book-direct” options, here are a few favorites:
Aspen Elopement Activities
Activities & Fun Things To Do In Aspen during your wedding day or after
how to get your
Aspen Marriage License
To legally marry in Aspen, you’ll need a Colorado marriage license. The nearest County Clerk and Recorder office is in Pitkin County, located at 530 E Main St, Ste 104, Aspen, CO 81611. That said, you can obtain your license from any county in Colorado—just remember it must be completed and returned to the same office where it was issued.
Colorado makes it easy for out-of-state couples to elope and legally marry. One of the unique perks? Colorado allows self-solemnization, meaning you don’t need an officiant or witnesses to make your marriage official. Even better, your pet can “sign” your marriage license with a paw print!
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Aspen Elopement Permits & Regulations
When planning your elopement in Aspen, it’s essential to comply with all local regulations and secure any necessary permits. This helps ensure your day runs smoothly while protecting the natural beauty of the area.
For popular areas like Maroon Bells, you’ll need to obtain reservations and parking passes. For other areas like National Forest Land, you may only need a special use permit if you have a large group of 50+ people.
Hiring a local Aspen elopement photographer is key to navigating the permitting process for your chosen locations. Their expertise ensures you’ll have all the necessary permissions in place for a seamless experience.
It’s also essential to familiarize yourself with Leave No Trace principles to help preserve Aspen’s stunning natural landscapes. Be prepared for the elements and wildlife that come with an outdoor Colorado elopement to ensure your day is both safe and enjoyable.
How Much Does An Aspen Elopement Cost?
The bare-minimum cost to elope in Aspen is still just the price of your Colorado marriage license – $30. That covers the legal side only. That said, most couples choosing Aspen aren’t looking for “bare minimum.” They want an elevated, intentional experience – stunning scenery, a beautiful place to stay, great food, and photos that feel editorial and timeless.
Aspen is one of Colorado’s pricier destinations, especially during peak seasons, with higher costs for accommodations and dining. If you’re working with a tight budget, you might consider other Colorado locations that offer similar stunning backdrops at a lower cost. Couples who hire us typically prioritize their experience and photography above all else, often dedicating the largest portion of their budget to their photography package to ensure their elopement is beautifully captured.
If you’re planning a micro wedding in Aspen, costs can climb quickly. Venue fees, catering minimums, rentals, and guest transportation add up fast – especially in high-demand locations and peak seasons. Depending on your venue and guest count, micro weddings often exceed elopement budgets. Aspen elopements tend to be less about cutting costs and more about prioritizing experience, scenery, and quality – and that’s exactly what makes them so special.
Elopement Cost
The average cost of an aspen elopement is $17k
Micro Wedding Cost
The average cost of an aspen Micro Wedding is $30k
Aspen Elopement Vendors
Florists
bouquets & boutennieres
Hair & Makeup Artists
professional hair & makeup services
Private Chefs & Cake
Hire a private chef or catering
Aspen Elopement Galleries
Aspen, Colorado
Two Day Micro Wedding
Maria & Ryan
Aspen, Colorado
Two Day Elopement
Ling & Jiayu
Aspen, Colorado
Half Day Hiking Elopement
Sonal & Zach
Aspen, Colorado
Multi Day Elopement With Guests
Megan & Brian
Aspen, Colorado
Half Day Elopement With Guests
Erin & Derek
Aspen, Colorado
Half Day Elopement With Guests
Kate & David
“Authentic Collective gave us all that we could have asked for! They were able to get us our dream venue and helped us with all that we needed to make our wedding day what we wanted.”
Erin & Derek | Aspen, Colorado
Hey, we’re Savannah & Greg!
Aspen Elopement Photographers
We’re a husband and wife team specializing in elopement photography and videography in Aspen, Colorado. We believe eloping is the best way to get married, so much so that we did it ourselves! We know it can feel overwhelming not knowing where to start, which is why we help couples set a date, pick a location, make a timeline, etc!
Aspen Colorado Elopement Packages
Photography Packages
It might seem counterintuitive to look for a photographer before you have an exact location and date set, but trust us on this one. If you’re looking for some help finding the perfect location, an elopement photographer who specializes in the area you’re considering will be a huge help to you.
Photography & Videography
Professional photography and optional videography services from an experienced husband/wife team who’ve photographed over 150 weddings together. Posing guidance and direction to make you feel and look great in front of the camera, no experience necessary.
Planning Guide
A 50+ page digital planning guide to help you through the whole elopement planning process. Including tips on booking travel and lodging, buying your attire, activity ideas, packing checklists, including family and more.
Custom Location Guide
A list of all the most beautiful locations in the area you choose based on scenery, accessibility, permits and logistics. We do the work so you don’t have to!
Timeline Creation
We’ll craft a timeline that fits all the locations, activities, and moments you have planned for your day as well as consider ideal lighting and making sure your whole experience is relaxed and stress free.
Vendor Recommendations
Looking for a florist, hair and makeup artist, or other vendors? We’ve got you covered with local recommendations.
Aspen Elopement FAQs
planning Resources
Planning guide
The Best Places To Elope In Colorado
Planning guide
Colorado Elopement Planning Guide
Planning guide
Small Wedding Venues in Colorado
