Elope in Colorado
alpine peaks, sand dunes, and mountain wildflowers
Colorado has more distinct elopement environments within a single state than anywhere in the Rocky Mountains. Rocky Mountain National Park sits above 12,000 feet with permits required and conditions that change fast. Maroon Bells outside Aspen is one of the most requested elopement backdrops in the country, with strict timed entry and limited ceremony slots. Great Sand Dunes offers 750-foot dunes meeting the Sangre de Cristo range, an environment that looks like nowhere else in North America. If your couple wants real variety without crossing state lines, Colorado delivers it.
Elopement Locations in Colorado
8 location guides covering alpine peaks, sand dunes, and mountain wildflowers.
- Rocky Mountain National Park: National Park · June through September · Permit: Yes · Fee: $300 non refundable administrative fee (paid after permit approval)
- Great Sand Dunes National Park: National Park · May through October · Permit: Yes · Fee: $200 nonrefundable administrative fee
- Black Canyon of the Gunnison NP: National Park · May through October · Permit: Yes · Fee: $100 nonrefundable application fee
- Mesa Verde National Park: National Park · April through October · Permit: Yes · Fee: Contact park for current fee
- Maroon Bells, White River National Forest: National Forest · Summer Fall (fall colors peak late September) · Permit: Varies · Fee: $200.00 for a two hour amphitheatre slot (max 50 people). Free for small group ceremonies elsewhere in White River NF under EXPLORE Act.
- San Juan Mountains, Uncompahgre National Forest: National Forest · Summer Fall · Permit: Varies · Fee: Processing fees exempted for applications under 50 hours. Land use rental fees may apply. Groups under 75 may not need a permit.
- Hanging Lake, White River National Forest: National Forest · Summer Fall · Permit: Varies · Fee: $12/person April 30 October 31; $10/person November 1 March 31 for hiking permits. Special Use Permit fees for elopements are not specified on this site.
- Garden of the Gods: State Park · Year round (spring and fall ideal) · Permit: No · Fee: Free for self organized ceremonies · Commercial planner permit required if hiring a wedding planner
Permit Guides for Colorado
- Rocky Mountain National Park permit guide ($300 non refundable administrative fee (paid after permit approval))
- Maroon Bells permit guide ($200.00 for a two hour amphitheatre slot (max 50 people). Free for small group ceremonies elsewhere in White River NF under EXPLORE Act.)
- Great Sand Dunes National Park permit guide ($200 nonrefundable administrative fee)
Colorado Marriage License
Colorado is the most elopement-friendly state: no waiting period, no witnesses, no officiant needed. You can self-solemnize by signing the license with just your partner. Apply at any county clerk's office. Note the short 35-day expiration.
- License fee: $30
- Wait period: None
- Witnesses required: None
- License valid for: 35 days