Eloping In The San Juan Mountains | Planning & Travel Guide (Updated 2025)
After living in Colorado our entire lives, I think we can confidently say the San Juan Mountains are within our top 5 favorite locations to recommend to our couples for their elopement. Not only will you find some of the most remote locations and cute towns, you’ll fall in love with the entire area if you love true mountain wilderness like we do.
Whether you are just starting to plan your elopement or are all in on eloping in the San Juans, here’s what you need to know when planning your adventure at one of the most stunning corners of our home state.
All About The San Juan Mountains
The San Juan Mountains are located in the most random part of Southwestern Colorado (6 hours away from Denver to be exact) which is why it’s a less visited area in the state. They are home to some of our favorite mountain towns like Telluride, Silverton, Ridgway, and Ouray along the San Juan Skyway. You’ll quickly find that they are arguably the most impressive range in the Colorado Rockies. From aquamarine alpine lakes to scenic hiking trails, remote off-roading routes, and wildflower fields, the San Juan Mountains are home to everything you’d want for your adventure elopement in Colorado.
Why You Should Elope In the San Juan Mountain Range
Because it’s iconic, but here are a few of our top reasons why you should elope there:
- It’s less crowded than popular locations in Colorado, like Estes Park for example.
- It’s home to some of the best mountain towns in Colorado.
- It’s full of adventurous activities for all skill levels and interests.
- You’ll find most of the BLUE alpine lakes here and amazing waterfalls around every corner. It’s probably the only place with cool waterfalls in Colorado to be honest.
- There are TONS of scenic and intimate elopement locations.
- There are over a dozen 14ers, not that we like to hike them but they really add to the space.
- Fall foliage is bright and beautiful in Autumn. Telluride especially.
- Lush wildflower meadows bring life to the mountains in Summer.
When Is The Best Time To Elope In The San Juan Mountains?
Time Of Year
It’s no secret that the weather in Colorado is COLD and unpredictable in Winter and Early Spring, especially in the mountains. While the state’s dense snowfall in the Rockies is great for skiing, snowboarding, and other Winter activities, snowy weather conditions can make planning elopements unnecessarily stressful. For a stress-free elopement experience, we recommend eloping in the San Juan Mountains during Summer or Fall!
Summer | Late June – August
From late June – August, temperatures can range from 65°F to 80°F. One thing you’ll learn right away is that it’s always sunny in Colorado, but in the summer there is a chance for pop-up afternoon showers here and there. Don’t worry, they never last all day like they do in other states. Summer is our favorite time for elopements in the San Juan Mountains because almost everywhere, from hiking routes to off-roading trails, is accessible. Any of the towns are ideal to visit in the summer.
Fall | September – October
During Fall, temperatures can range from 35°F to 65°F. This time of year also brings the colorful Fall foliage to the San Juan Mountains. Peak foliage happens the last week of September and the first week of October so if you want to catch leaves still on the trees those are usually safe time frames. Fall is less crowded, cooler, and the best for star photos because the sun sets a little earlier meaning you don’t have to stay up until 11pm to catch the milky way. Telluride is probably the best fall spot in our opinion.
Winter & Spring | Late October- Early May
We like to joke around that spring doesn’t really exist in the mountains. But for this exercise we’re going to pretend that it does. We are also going to pretend “winter” starts late October because that is when it starts snowing in the mountains typically. Winter and Spring in the mountains = lots of snow. The temperatures do tend to fluctuate and typically the coldest months will include December through February. You’ll find the most snow in February and March, But you’ll notice within this timeframe Colorado looks pretty similar the entire 6+ months. unless you are looking to elope in the wintertime or you love activities like snowshoeing and skiing we would personally not recommend this area during this timeframe. Also, if you want it to look green, wait until at least early June.
Elope On A Weekday
We highly recommend choosing a weekday for the best elopement experience. Although this area tends to be less busy, the weekend can be super busy, especially during the warm Summer months. Weekdays are always less crowded, even during peak seasons. Also:
- More vendors are available during the week, especially during the busy season.
- Making reservations at popular locations such as accommodations and restaurants is easier.
- Less busy locations = a more intimate elopement experience!
- Areas like hiking trails, hot springs and 4×4 routes will be less crowded and quieter.
Elope At Sunrise or Sunset
In general from a photographer standpoint the best times of the day for an elopement is Sunrise or Sunset! Temperatures and lighting are more favorable during these times of day in the summer, and crowd levels tend to be lower. If you’re planning a full-day elopement that includes adventurous activities throughout the day, consider holding the actual vow ceremony at the start or end of your day! We usually allow our couples to split their day and this is especially great if you want to visit multiple locations or you are having a hybrid elopement.
Tips: Always be prepared for any type of weather at any time of the year. Extra layers are never a bad idea.
Traveling to the San Juan Mountains
If you’re not from Colorado and planning on traveling to the San Juan Mountains from out-of-state, Denver International Airport (DIA) is an excellent option because there are tons of flights that fly directly to Denver. DIA has on-site rental car access, so you can rent a travel vehicle there. Remember, Denver is about a 6 hour drive to the San Juan Mountains. We recommend reserving a vehicle that drives well on mountain roads. It’s not required to rent a 4X4, but if you want to plan an off-roading adventure, consider renting a Jeep or Bronco or booking a 4×4 tour guide. You can rent those all in the San Juan Mountains once you get there.
If driving an extra 6 hours after your flight doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, you can also fly into the Montrose Airport,Grand Junction Airport, or the Durango Airport. Those will shorten your drive to under 1.5 hours. Keep in mind that those airports are very tiny so flights might be very limited/more expensive.
Top San Juan Mountain Elopement Locations
The San Juans have some of the best mountain views in Colorado. We spend so much of our summers exploring this part of the state and we love taking our couples there to explore as well on their elopement day!
Ridgway
Known as the “Gateway to the San Juans,” this tiny town with big views is one of the best-hidden gem mountain towns in Southwestern Colorado. Home to one of Colorado’s most beautiful 14ers, Mt. Sneffels, and a great starting point for those couples wishing to travel the entire 25-mile Million Dollar Highway, Ridgway is the perfect elopement location for a quiet, laid-back celebration. While there are many incredible ceremony locations in Ridgway, some of our favorites include Last Dollar Road, Top of the Pines, and the epic Blue Lakes Trail (Which will be closed off this summer 2025). Apart from hiking, there are many unique activities to do in Ridgway! You can visit Orvis Hot Springs, explore Ridgway State Park, and wander around Ridgway’s Creative District.
Ouray
Ouray is a hub for incredible hikes and 4×4 trails! Surrounded by steep, rugged mountain sides, the small town sits at 7,800 feet in a beautiful valley. Ouray is often called the “Switzerland of America”, thanks to the beautiful scenery. Somehow, Ouray has managed to maintain an old Wild West charm while also becoming a modern, elevated getaway location in the mountains. Full of activities and ceremony locations, you and your partner won’t run out of things to do and see in Ouray! Our favorite ceremony locations include Yankee Boy Basin/Twin Falls, Box Cañon Falls, and Million Dollar Highway. Couples can enjoy activities like visiting wildflower meadows in Summer, climbing the Ouray Via Ferrata, shopping and dining on Mainstreet, going for a drive along Million Dollar Highway, soaking in the town’s hot springs, hiking, and exploring 4×4 trails in a Jeep!
Learn more about eloping in Ouray
Telluride
A beautiful scenic 6.5-hour drive from Denver, Telluride is one of the top ski towns in Colorado. Home to some of the state’s most epic scenery and activities, Telluride is a top elopement location contender for us when it comes to tying the knot in the San Juan Mountains especially in the fall. While there are many breathtaking outdoor locations in Telluride, some of our favorites include Bridal Veil Falls, San Sophia Overlook, Hope Lake, Imogene Pass, and Alta Lakes. Even outside of ski season, Telluride is full of fun activities in Summer and Fall. Couples can enjoy local shopping on Main Street, a free gondola ride up to Mountain Village, a day rafting trip along the San Miguel River, an afternoon spent exploring one of the area’s many waterfalls, 4×4 adventures on remote mountain trails in a Jeep, and more!
Learn more about eloping in Telluride.
Silverton
If you and your partner are looking for off-roading adventures, Silverton is the ceremony location for you! One of the highest towns in the U.S., Silverton sits at a little over 9,300 feet above sea level. This quaint mountain town is the perfect base camp to relax and unwind before embarking on an epic 4×4 adventure. While there are a wide variety of ceremony locations to choose from, some of our favorites include Animas Forks Ghost Town OHV Route, Red Mountain Mining Area OHV Trail, Corkscrew Gulch, and Alpine Loop National Back Country Byway.
Learn more about eloping in Silverton
Durango
Home to some of the state’s most beautiful backpacking routes, hiking trails, and waterways in Southwestern Colorado, Durango is rich in culture and activities. From horseback riding to hiking, mountain biking, fly fishing, rock climbing, off-roading, paddle boarding, and whitewater rafting, Durango is an adventure hub for all types of outdoor activities. While there are many ceremony locations to choose from, some of our top choices include Mesa Verde National Park, Falls Creek, and Blue Lake Ranch. Couples can enjoy various activities in and around Durango, like hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, whitewater rafting, fly fishing, hot springs, ATV tours, and more!
Check out our travel/availability schedule to see what dates we have available for your San Juans Elopement.
Some Of Our Favorite Adventures We’ve Photographed Here
Places To Stay In The San Juan Mountains
Where you relax and unwind during your adventure elopement is just as important as where you celebrate. Here’s a list of some of our favorite accommodations in the San Juan Mountains!
How To Legally Get Married in Colorado
Getting legally married in Colorado is super easy! Colorado is one of the few states in the U.S. where self-solemnization is legal. This means you and your partner don’t need an officiant to make the marriage official! Your dog or kids can even sign your marriage license.
To get your marriage license, visit any County Clerk’s office in Colorado. Choose an office near your elopement location for convenience! Next, be sure to read the requirements for the office you are picking up from. In some cases, you and your partner need to provide your birth certificates, social security numbers, a form of payment, and two valid forms of government-issued identification each. The license is valid upon issue and must be used in Colorado within 35 days. The fee is $30.00 across the state! After your official ceremony, be sure the license is signed before returning it to the County Clerk within 63 days of the ceremony for recording.
Here are the offices closest to this area:
- For Ouray: Ouray County Clerk
- For Telluride: San Miguel County Clerk
- For Silverton: San Juan County Clerk
- For Durango: La Plata County Clerk
- For Lake City: Hinsdale County Clerk
- Close Alternative: Montrose County Clerk
Tips: Always make an appointment when applicable so your visit is quick and easy. It is recommended to call and ensure paw prints are allowed as witnesses at each county since rules are changed often. You can always pick up your marriage license from ANY county clerk and recorder’s office in the state regardless of whether you are eloping in that county.
San Juan Mountain Permit Guidelines
Permit requirements in the San Juan Mountains are on a location-to-location basis, so a permit may be required for your ceremony, all depending on the area! Most outdoor areas in Colorado have a special use or commercial permit requirement – meaning you must apply and pay a small fee for land use. Permit fees can range from 0$-500. It can feel overwhelming sometimes, which is why research on permits is a part of our elopement service!
We recommend you start planning your elopement at least 3 months in advance so there is time to process these permits, but if you have last minute plans there are a ton of permit-free options available as well.
Eloping With Family In The San Juan Mountains
Just because you’re eloping it doesn’t mean you can’t include a few of your loved ones to celebrate. About half of our elopements include a few guests and there are a couple of ways you can incorporate them without sacrificing having a day just about you two.
Here are a few things you should consider when inviting guests to your elopement in the San Juan Mountains:
- Most outdoor locations are only suitable for 10-15 people or less. This includes vendors, guests, and the couple.
- The best option for elopements with larger guest counts is to reserve an outdoor location. Most State and National Parks have areas that are reserved for outdoor ceremonies! The Visitor Center Overlook at Ridgway State Park is a great example.
- If you want an indoor elopement ceremony, consider micro wedding venues like A-Frame Cabins, Bed & Breakfasts, and Airbnbs!
- Make sure your guests don’t limit your adventure! If you’re dreaming of making a fun hike or adrenaline-filled adventure a part of your elopement day, you can always invite guests to an accessible reception or ceremony space before or after your adventure. Most couples that we work with go this route and they love having a “just us” moment before celebrating with loved ones.
Activity Ideas for Your Elopement In The San Juan Mountains
If you and your partner want an unforgettable elopement experience in the San Juan Mountains, including activities to your day is a must. A few fun options can be:
- Go off-roading to a ghost town
- Hike through the aspens in the fall
- Have a bonfire and smore’s bar under the stars
- Share a craft beer at a brewery
- Explore waterfalls
- Take a ride on the Durango/Silverton Train
- Discover Mesa Verde National Park
- Experience world class skiing in Telluride Ski Resort
- Have a picnic next to a turquoise blue alpine lake
Tips: Your elopement will only be as special as you allow it to be. Incorporating activities that you already love or that you would love to experience are a great way of adding that to your day.
San Juan Mountains Adventure Elopement Packing Checklist
Being prepared during your adventure elopement in the San Juan Mountains will make your trip so much more relaxed and stress-free. Here’s a list of things you should pack for your elopement and adventuring:
- Location Permit (If required)
- Marriage License
- Elopement Attire
- Vows
- Rings
- Snacks
- Water
- Tissues/Napkins
- Backpack
- Light Rain Jacket
- Hand/Body Warmers
- Extra Socks
- Boots With Tread (preferably water resistant/proof)
- Warm Layers (Pullovers, Jackets, Leggings)
- Headlamps
- Blanket
- Cute Umbrella
- Chapstick & Lotion (very dry here)
What To Expect: How Long Should You Plan For?
After helping plan elopements for the past 6 years throughout the entire state of Colorado, we can tell you right now that no elopement is ever the same. Planning an elopement is a very unique-to-you experience and there are so many ways you can celebrate the day. Based on our most commonly booked packages, this is typically what you can expect from an elopement day in Colorado:
4 hour experience: This is for the short and sweet elopements. It pairs best with outdoor locations that we can drive up to (versus hiking or off-roading) and exploring a bit after your vows. Most often, the day includes the first looks, ceremony, portraits and a celebratory drink.
8 hour experience: (Our most popular Colorado elopement package) A full day of exploring together that’s tailored to you. Think pre-dawn stargazing, hiking, off-roading, canoeing and more. This is the perfect amount of coverage to capture the most important parts of your day + a Colorado adventure.
12 hour/ 2-day experience: This package is ideal for couples who want to combine an adventure elopement alone in the wilderness paired with an intimate wedding or a couples adventure the next day. Includes two consecutive days (split up how you want) and two different locations.
The experience with us
We are a photo and video team that have been living in Colorado our entire lives! We help couples put together an elopement experience that is stress-free, a little adventurous and most importantly, that feels like YOU.
When you work with us, you get:
- Local location suggestions in the San Juan Mountains
- Permitting Advice
- Timeline of the day planning so you get the most out of your time with us
- Support with planning (vendor recommendations,
- Back up plans
- The kind of images & videos you’ll be obsessed with
Sounds like what you’re looking for? Let’s make it happen! Contact Us to get started.
Tips For Eloping In The San Juan Mountains
Eloping is a totally different experience compared to traditional weddings, especially if you’re saying “I Do” in the mountains! Here are some of our top tips to help make sure your adventure elopement in the San Juan Mountains is the absolute best!
Altitude Sickness
Elevation gain can vary depending on where you are staying and what activities you’ll be doing in the San Juan Mountains. While Durango is around 6,500 feet, Silverton is over 9,300 feet. If you’re not used to high-altitude environments, a difference in 3,000 feet can make a HUGE difference. Take it easy for the first day or two during your elopement trip, and give yourself plenty of time to acclimate before your ceremony.
Traffic & Parking
Mountain traffic can be unpredictable and parking is sometimes limited, even during shoulder seasons. Be sure to monitor traffic conditions ahead of your ceremony!
Have a back up plan
Sometimes plans change due to weather, closures and other unforeseen circumstances. We always help our couples plan ahead with back up locations just in case.
Busy Weekends
Weekends are often busy in Colorado, even during shoulder seasons. The weather is usually nice, and locals love to be outdoors! We highly suggest choosing a weekday for your elopement instead!
Download Maps Early
There are tons of spots around the San Juan’s that do not have great cellphone coverage.
Dog-Friendly
The San Juan Mountains are very dog-friendly! Many restaurants, hiking trails, and accommodations allow dogs, but check ahead of your arrival just to be sure!
Fire Bans
Colorado is pretty dry year-round, and fire bans are often in place. If you decide to have a cozy fire during your celebration, check for fire bans at that location!
Sunscreen and Bug Spray
The Sun is more intense at higher elevations, which means you can still get a sunburn even when it’s cold outside! Be sure to pack and wear sunscreen to avoid getting burnt before elopement pictures. If you’re eloping in Summer, packing and applying bug spray often is a must, especially if you’ll be near lakes or rivers.
How to Leave No Trace In The San Juan Mountains
To keep the San Juan Mountains wild, clean, and pristine, be sure to follow the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace during your adventure elopement:
- Plan Ahead & Prepare
- Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces
- Dispose of Waste Properly
- Leave What You Find
- Minimize Campfire Impacts
- Respect Wildlife
- Be Considerate of Others
Ready To Make Your San Juan Mountains Adventure Real?
If you’ve made it this far, we’re Laura & Hugo, an elopement photographer and videographer team at Together We Roam! We’re here to help you plan, photograph, and film your dream elopement in the San Juan Mountains. We spend a lot of time in the area we know about quite a few good spots for your elopement. If you’re ready to start working together, take a look at our Colorado elopement packages, and contact us to get started!
