*A bride and groom in the San Juan Mountains near Silverton, Colorado*

You’ve decided a big wedding isn’t for you. Instead, you’re dreaming of a day that’s intentional—one that’s deeply rooted in the meaning of your commitment to each other. That choice alone is powerful. But once you’ve made it, you might find yourself wondering… where do you even begin? Planning an adventure elopement is full of exciting possibilities, and while there are many beautiful pieces that come together to create your dream day, a few key elements form the foundation for everything else.

Naturally I always recommend starting with your elopement photographer. Choose someone whose work truly speaks to you—photos that feel honest, emotive, and like they could be telling your story. Of everything you invest in on your wedding day, your photographs are how you’ll relive those moments for years to come and how you’ll share your intimate wedding experience with the people you love most.

Next, it helps to have a general idea of where you’d like to elope. Are you drawn to the mountains, the desert, or the beach? Colorado or Europe? Maybe you already have a specific place in mind. Wherever your heart is pulling you, your photographer should be able to guide you with location recommendations that align with your vision and help you find a spot that feels just right.

Having a season or date in mind is also helpful when reaching out to a photographer—but one of the best parts of eloping is the flexibility. Without a traditional venue, you’re free to choose a date that works for you. Your photographer can help you decide on the best season and time of day for your location—whether you’re dreaming of wildflowers, fall colors, or a snowy mountain adventure—and can help you avoid crowds for a more secluded, meaningful experience.

Once you have your photographer, date, and location chosen, the real fun begins. This is where your day starts to take shape in a way that feels completely your own. Maybe that looks like hiking to an alpine lake, jeeping through mountain passes, horseback riding, or simply soaking it all in together. You’ll decide on accommodations, food, attire, whether to invite a few guests (or none at all), and book any vendors needed to ensure the day flows effortlessly. This is where the magic happens—where your vision becomes a plan and your dream day comes to life.

Since you’re here I’m guessing the San Juan Mountains are calling your name, and you’re in for something truly special. There are three main mountain towns that make incredible home bases for your elopement. Ouray, my personal favorite, offers breathtaking access to rugged peaks and expansive mountain views, alpine lakes, wildflower-filled valleys and waterfalls. It’s well known for hiking, jeeping, climbing, and relaxing in hot springs. Telluride brings a more luxurious feel, set in a dramatic box canyon with stunning scenery in every direction, endless outdoor access, and refined mountain charm. Silverton, the most remote of the three, is rich in mining history and known for its quiet solitude, striking alpine lakes, waterfalls, and jeep trails.

No matter which town you choose, you’ll find endless opportunities for adventure, unique lodging, and trusted guiding or rental companies to help bring your vision to life. The San Juan Mountains are an unforgettable backdrop for couples who want their intimate wedding to feel adventurous, meaningful, and entirely their own.

*A bride and groom stand below the mountains near Ouray, Colorado*

Planning Your Visit to Ouray, Colorado

Activity Recommendations

Explore Yankee Boy Basin
This stunning basin is popular for good reason. Surrounded by towering peaks and home to a beautiful waterfall and vibrant wildflower meadows, Yankee Boy Basin truly offers a little bit of everything.
Hike to Blue Lakes
A reasonably challenging hike that I return to time and time again—and plan to continue returning to—the three Blue Lakes above Ridgway, Colorado, are among the most breathtaking landscapes I’ve ever experienced.
Soak in the Ouray Hot Springs
After a day of exploring, unwind in the Ouray Hot Springs and enjoy the perfect combination of relaxation and mountain views.
Venture Up Red Mountain Pass
One of the most iconic drives in all of Colorado, Red Mountain Pass delivers jaw-dropping views around every turn and is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.

Lodging

Florals

Food

Hair and Makeup Vendors

*A bride and groom stand below a waterfall near Silverton, Colorado*

Planning Your Visit to Silverton, Colorado

Activity Recommendations

Hike to Ice Lakes
Another favorite for good reason, the Ice Lakes hike is a rewarding challenge that showcases some of the most stunning scenery in the San Juan Mountains. Along the way, you’ll pass through high-alpine meadows, mountainsides blanketed in wildflowers, and ultimately arrive at two jaw-dropping, blue alpine lakes. If you work with me, I’ll also take you to one of my favorite lesser-known waterfalls.
Jeep to California Pass & Governor Basin
While I’m partial to hiking, jeeping is an excellent option for those who want to experience Silverton’s rugged, hard-to-reach beauty without the physical demands of a long trek. You can drive yourself if you have four-wheeling experience, or hire a knowledgeable driver from a trusted local company who will safely guide you into the backcountry. Either way, you’ll be rewarded with unforgettable views and access to some of the area’s most remote and breathtaking terrain.

Lodging

Food

Florals

Hair and Makeup Vendors

*A bride and groom during their snowshoeing elopement near Telluride, Colorado*

Planning Your Visit to Telluride, Colorado

Activity Recommendations

Bridal Veil Falls Hike:
An excellent option for groups with a range of hiking abilities, this trail features several breathtaking waterfalls along the way and culminates at Colorado’s tallest free-falling waterfall.
Drive Up Last Dollar Road:
This scenic and relatively easy four-wheel-drive route leads to a high vantage point with sweeping views of the mountain range that includes Mount Wilson, Wilson Peak, and El Diente Peak.
Visit Trout Lake:
Nestled at the base of towering mountains, Trout Lake is a beautiful spot for water activities such as stand-up paddleboarding or simply relaxing and soaking in the surrounding natural scenery.
Hike to Blue Lake:
Not to be confused with the Blue Lakes hike accessed from Ridgway, this trail leads to its own crystal-blue alpine lake tucked among dramatic, towering peaks.

Lodging

Food

Florals

Hair and Makeup Vendors