Dreaming of an elopement that feels like an adventure in the heart of nature? Having a San Juan Mountains elopement in Colorado might be exactly what you’re looking for. This guide will take you through everything you need to know about eloping in this stunning mountain range—from the best locations like Telluride, Ouray, and Silverton to costs, seasons, and what to pack.
Whether you’re envisioning a small ceremony surrounded by towering peaks or an intimate celebration with your closest loved ones, the San Juan Mountains offer the perfect backdrop.
Trust me, when you see this area, you too will fall in love. And it is the most epic place to start your marriage together.
Why Elope in the San Juan Mountains
The San Juan Mountains are a breathtaking mix of rugged peaks, alpine lakes, and picturesque towns. Known for their dramatic scenery, these mountains are part of the Rocky Mountain range, offering some of the most beautiful landscapes in Colorado. It’s the kind of place where your elopement isn’t just a ceremony; it’s an adventure.
Not only that, the mountains are home to so many adorable mountain towns. You’ll be able to find vendors, get legally married easily (this is most important, right?!), and plenty of things to do. The San Juans are so special. You’ll get a variety of scenery, plenty of activities for you and your loved ones, and make it a vacation more than just a wedding day.
How to Elope in the San Juan Mountains
Many couples struggle with the concept of eloping. With weddings, there is a clear agenda and task list. With elopements or microweddings, you can completely throw it out the window and start over. But that can be overwhelming!
So below are some of the tasks that I recommend starting with on how to elope in the San Juan Mountains:
1. Choose Your Location: Telluride, Ouray, or Silverton?
Each town in the San Juan Mountains has its own unique charm:
- Telluride Elopement: AKA my favorite place on earth. Nestled in a box canyon, Telluride is surrounded by towering peaks. It’s perfect if you want a blend of adventure and luxury. The town offers easy access to stunning elopement spots like Bridal Veil Falls and Alta Lakes. Plus, the gondola ride between Telluride and Mountain Village is a FREE unique experience.
- Ouray Elopement: Known as the “Switzerland of America,” Ouray is a small town with big views. The surrounding mountains and adventures make it ideal for couples seeking a romantic and serene atmosphere. Amphitheater Campground and Yankee Boy Basin are popular spots for elopements.
- Silverton Elopement: If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, Silverton might be your spot. This historic mining town offers a rugged, wild west vibe. Locations like Molas Pass and Ice Lakes Basin are perfect for adventurous couples.
2. Choose your season or date
I have a section on the best times to elope below to check out on how to do this! The biggest thing to remember is that seasons can be sporadic in the mountains. Snow will be there until at least June. There will be road closures, accessibility issues, and weather patterns to prepare for. The best timing in Telluride for perfect temps and colors is typically from end of June until end of September.
3. Legal Requirements for Eloping in Colorado
One of the best parts about eloping in Colorado is that you don’t need an officiant to get married. Colorado allows couples to self-solemnize, meaning you can legally marry yourselves without a witness or officiant. However, you’ll still need to get a marriage license from any county in Colorado. The fee is usually around $30, and you can often get it the same day.
4. Choose your guest list
Choosing whether or not you want family or friends involved can be a tricky decision. Also know that you can absolutely do both. Many of my couples decide to have an elopement with just the two of them, then a second day with their families. It’s a great way to have best of both worlds. Check out this great blog post on how to include your loved ones at your elopement.
5. Plan Your Adventure
Think about what kind of adventure you want on your elopement day. Do you want to hike to a secluded spot, take a 4×4 Jeep ride to a high alpine lake, or maybe ski down the slopes after saying “I do”? The San Juan Mountains offer endless possibilities for outdoor activities, from hiking and skiing to rock climbing and hot spring soaking.
How Much Does It Cost to Elope in the San Juans?
The cost of eloping in the San Juan Mountains can vary depending on how simple or elaborate you want your day to be. Here’s a rough breakdown:
- Photography: A professional adventure elopement photographer can have a wide range. For an experienced photographer who knows the area, you can expect to pay between $6,000-$12,000. Yes, you can absolutely find less expensive options out there, but it will just depend on your priorities for your day!
- Travel and Accommodation: Flights to Colorado and accommodation in towns like Telluride, Ouray, or Silverton can range from $150 to $500+ per night, depending on the season and type of lodging.
- Permits and Fees: Some locations, especially in national forests or state parks, may require a permit for your ceremony. Permit costs typically range from $50 to $300. Your marriage license will cost just around $30!
- Attire and Gear: Depending on the season, you may need to invest in hiking boots, warm layers, or specialized gear for your adventure. Budget around $500 to $3,000 for attire and gear.
- Extras: If you’re planning on including things like a cake, flowers, or a picnic, budget an additional $200 to $1,000.
Cost is a difficult topic to determine, because everyones budgets are different. In total, you can absolutely have a San Juan mountains elopement with just a marriage license for $30. If you want to add on photographer, accommodation, activities, florists, hair and makeup, etc, then you can expect to spend between $10,000-$18,000.
How to Get to the San Juans
The San Juan Mountains are located in southwestern Colorado. It’s about a 6 hour drive from Denver, which is honestly the route I typically go. The easiest way to reach them is by flying into one of the nearby airports:
- Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ): About an hour’s drive to Ouray and 90 minutes to Telluride.
- Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO): About two hours from Silverton and Telluride.
- Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT): About a 2.5-hour drive to Telluride or Ouray.
- Denver International Airport: About a 6 hour drive to Telluride.
Once you arrive, renting a car is essential for exploring the region. If you’re planning to access remote areas, consider renting a 4×4 vehicle, especially if you’re visiting in winter or want to explore off-road locations.
Speaking of off-roading adventures, please use caution. If you are not an experienced off-roading driver, consider hiring a professional. The roads in the San Juans can be incredibly dangerous and steep. If this is not something you are prepared for, then consider a different direction.
Intimate Wedding Venues
If you’re looking for a small, intimate wedding venue rather than a completely outdoor elopement, the San Juan Mountains have some charming options. Sometimes it can be nice having everything at one place, especially with guests.
- San Sophia Overlook in Telluride
- The Observatory at Alta Lakes
- Red Mountain Alpine Lodge
- Gold Mountain Ranch
- Gorrono Ranch
What to Pack for Your San Juan Mountains Elopement
Packing for an adventure elopement in the mountains is all about being prepared. Here’s a list of essentials:
- Layers: The weather in the mountains can change quickly, so pack warm layers, even in summer. Think fleece jackets, thermal base layers, and a waterproof outer layer.
- Footwear: Comfortable, sturdy hiking boots are a must, especially if you’ll be trekking to your elopement spot.
- Sun Protection: The sun at high altitudes is strong. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Hydration and Snacks: Pack plenty of water and some high-energy snacks, especially if you’re hiking.
- Headlamp: If your adventure extends into the evening, a headlamp is essential.
- Elopement Attire: Don’t forget your wedding dress, suit, or whatever you’re wearing for the ceremony. Consider practical footwear or plan to change at your location.
- Emergency Kit: Basic first-aid supplies, a multi-tool, and a map of the area (don’t rely solely on your phone’s GPS).
Best Seasons to Elope in the San Juan Mountains
Each season in the San Juan Mountains offers something unique.
- Summer (June to August): Ideal for high-altitude hikes and wildflower blooms. This is the most popular season for elopements, so expect more visitors. Typically peak wildflower season is the last week of July into the first week of August.
- Fall (September to October): The mountains are ablaze with fall colors, making it a stunning time for photography. The weather is cooler, and the crowds thin out.
- Winter (November to March): Perfect for couples who love snow. Think cozy winter elopements with snow-covered peaks and skiing.
- Spring (April to May): A quieter time with unpredictable weather. Snow may still be on the ground, but the lower elevations start to green up.
Elopement Ideas for the San Juan Mountains
There is seriously so much you can do on your elopement in the San Juans. My biggest piece of advice is to make it an adventure. Try to see as much of the landscape that you can. Eat good food. Try new things! Make it a day you’ll never forget.
- Sunrise or sunset Hike: Start your day with a sunrise hike to a secluded spot for an intimate ceremony as the sun peeks over the mountains. Or end your day with a beautiful hike and the sun going down.
- Helicopter Elopement: Take your adventure to new heights with a helicopter ride to a remote, breathtaking location. This can be a really fun way to get to a secluded area in a different way. Just note that the weather can take a turn quickly in the mountains, so you may have to prepare to pivot.
- Ski-In Elopement: If you’re a skiing couple, consider a winter elopement where you ski to your ceremony spot. Or get married on the top of a mountain and ski down!
- 4×4 Adventure: Rent a Jeep and explore the rugged backroads to find your perfect elopement location. As I’ve mentioned, I’d highly recommend hiring an experienced driver or tour if you are not experienced in the back country.
Check out this list of all of the elopement ideas.
Final Tips for Eloping in the San Juan Mountains
- Plan for Altitude: The high altitude can affect your energy levels and hydration. Arrive a few days early to acclimate, and stay hydrated.
- Weather Flexibility: The weather in the mountains can be unpredictable. Have a backup plan for your elopement location in case of rain or snow.
- Leave No Trace: The San Juan Mountains are a pristine environment. Follow Leave No Trace principles to keep it beautiful for future couples.
Eloping in the San Juan Mountains is more than just a wedding day—it’s an adventure you’ll never forget. With its stunning landscapes, endless outdoor activities, and charming towns, this region of Colorado is the perfect place for a memorable elopement. Whether you choose to say your vows on a mountaintop, by a serene alpine lake, or in a cozy historic venue, the San Juan Mountains will provide a backdrop as breathtaking as your love story.
