Aspen Elopement Guide
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HOW TO ELOPE IN ASPEN: UPDATED FOR 2025
Aspen is one of Colorado’s top elopement destinations, known for its breathtaking mountain scenery. Whether you dream of a private ceremony for just the two of you or an intimate celebration with close friends and family, Aspen provides an idyllic backdrop for exchanging vows.
As experienced Aspen elopement photographers, we’re here to guide you through the pros and cons of eloping in this beautiful location and share expert tips to help you plan the perfect day. If an Aspen elopement is on your radar, keep reading for everything you need to know!
Table Of Contents
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!
“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.”
When To Elope In Aspen
Best Time Of Year To Elope In ASPEN, Colorado
The best time to elope in Aspen is late June to mid-October. It depends on your preferences and priorities, but many people consider late September to be the best time for elopements due to the cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. However, summer months (mid-June through the end of August) can also be popular due to warmer weather and more outdoor activities. Keep in mind that many locations become inaccessible in the winter until spring and sometimes even early summer 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 can be hit or miss. You can have beautiful fall colors one day, then it can snow storm the next and take down lots of leaves. 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!
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Best Places To Elope In Aspen
Aspen elopement locations
Aspen is a charming town located in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. The town is known for its stunning natural beauty, with majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and aspen forests. It’s a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with skiing, snowboarding, hiking, mountain biking, and many other outdoor activities available all year round.
Aspen also offers a vibrant cultural scene, with many excellent restaurants, shops, and galleries. The town is home to several cultural events and festivals, including the Aspen Music Festival, the Food & Wine Classic, and the Aspen Ideas Festival. In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Aspen is known for its luxurious amenities and services. The town has many high-end resorts, spas, and restaurants that cater to affluent visitors.
Here are some of the most popular and scenic places to elope in Aspen:
Maroon Bells Amphitheater
This is an outdoor wedding ceremony location with a stunning mountain backdrop. The amphitheater is available for ceremonies only, needs to be reserved 1 year in advance and sells out extremely quickly. This is not a private location- it’s very popular and there will be many other visitors present.
Cost: $200
Guest Count: Up to 50
MOUNTAIN ELOPEMENTS
If you love mountains and are looking for a beautiful and unforgettable location for your elopement, Aspen can be a great choice. Aspen is surrounded by stunning peaks and valleys that provide a beautiful and scenic backdrop.
INDEPENDENCE PASS, ASHCROFT GHOST TOWN, SMUGGLER MOUNTAIN TRAIL, SNOWMASS SKI AREA, AJAX MOUNTAIN, HUNTER CREEK TRAIL.
Elope At A Lake
MAROON LAKE, CRATER LAKE, LOST MAN LAKE, AMERICAN LAKE, CATHEDRAL LAKE, SNOWMASS LAKE, CONUNDRUM HOT SPRINGS, GENEVA LAKE, THOMAS LAKES, AND RUEDI RESERVOIR.
Take A Gondola
SILVER QUEEN GONDOLA TO ASPEN MOUNTAIN, ELK CAMP GONDOLA TO SNOWMASS, EXHIBITION CHAIRLIFT TO ASPEN HIGHLANDS OR SUMMIT EXPRESS CHAIRLIFT TO BUTTERMILK.
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.
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:
Lynn Britt Cabin
The Lynn Britt Cabin is a historic log cabin located in the Snowmass Ski Area in Aspen, Colorado. Its rustic charm and beautiful mountain setting make it a popular choice for small weddings. This venue offers both ceremony and reception options.
Cost: Starts at $10,000 for weekday weddings under 60 guests
Capacity: Summer 65 inside or 200 in tent outdoors, 50 winter
Snowmass Wedding Terrace
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.
Cost: Varies
Capacity: up to 146 guests
Pine Creek Cookhouse – Located in Castle Creek Valley, just outside of Aspen, Pine Creek Cookhouse is nestled among the picturesque mountains and features breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The venue features a rustic, yet elegant atmosphere, with natural wood finishes, cozy fireplaces, and large windows that showcase the stunning views.
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 – Choose from a variety of ceremony and/or reception options such as Anderson Park, Bass Terrace and more.
T-Lazy-7 Event Lodge – 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.
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.
Little Nell Wedding Deck / Wedding Overlook – Possibly the most beautiful venue in all of 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 ride, which adds an element of adventure and excitement to the wedding day. This venue is not budget friendly.
How To Get Legally Married In Aspen Colorado
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!
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 It Cost To Elope In Aspen, Colorado?
The cost of getting married in Aspen starts at just $30 for a marriage license from Pitkin County. Beyond that, the cost of eloping will depend on what you’re planning. Essential costs often include wedding attire, a photographer, a videographer, a florist, and a hair and makeup artist. Don’t forget to factor in travel, transportation, and lodging as well.
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.
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 Elopement Videographers
In addition to photography, we also offer a variety of videography options! These include everything from a short, super 8 style music video (as seen here), to full professional videography with your full day, vows and other audio included.
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.
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Colorado Elopement
Planning checklist
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planning Resources
Planning guide
The Best Places To Elope In Colorado
Planning guide
Colorado Elopement Planning Guide
Planning guide
Small Wedding Venues in Colorado
