Best places to elope in the rocky mountains
Eloping is all fun and games until you realize the spot you hope to say “I do” in is overrun with crowds during peak wedding season. Or it’s closed to weddings. Or it’s down-wind from a cattle ranch. Yeah…not fun. Ensuring that your elopement is everything you hoped and dreamed is extremely dependent on the location you choose! But how do you find the perfect spot, especially if it’s not in your own hometown?
As a Colorado elopement photographer who also serves as a destination photographer across the American West, I know a thing or two about finding dream spots for elopements. And if you’re planning Rocky Mountain elopement, let me just reassure you from the jump that you’ve chosen wisely! The adventures and views here are unlike any other, and the photos are going to blow your mind. But finding the perfect location for your Rocky Mountain elopement is key. Remember, we don’t want your elopement to be cow-scented or tourist-covered. So, let’s go on an adventure together through my top five favorite Rocky Mountain elopement locations. Refill your Hydroflask, tug on your North Face, and let’s go!
A couple at Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado with the Rocky Mountains in the distance.
Rocky Mountain Elopement Location #1
Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
A unique experience for adventurous couples, the Great Sand Dunes are a real treat to elope in. The sand dunes tower up to 750 meters high and are surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. The options for amazing photos are endless! A billowing white dress with miles of sand in the background….*chef’s kiss.*
What to do during your Great Sand Dunes elopement:
- Rent a sand sled and slide down the dunes, or just dance around and unleash your inner child in them!
- Camp (the ground is extra soft for sleeping)
- Stargaze and catch glimpses of the Milky Way
- Rent a Jeep to drive through the neighboring mountain passes and make your way down the sandy roads less traveled in the park. Cross creeks and sight wildlife, like bighorn sheep!
Couples love the unique look of the sand dunes in their photos, so I highly recommend looking into a Great Sand Dunes elopement for your special day!
Read more:
Great Sand Dunes Elopement Tips
Grand Teton National Park near Jackson, Wyoming.
Rocky Mountain Elopement Location #2
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
For couples looking for a more mountainous landscape that has a western, this-town-ain’t-big-enough-for-the-both-of-us vibe, then Grand Teton is the place to be! Located just south of Yellowstone in Northwest Wyoming, this park has the drop-dead gorgeous views you want in an elopement while still being next to the fun little Western town of Jackson.
If you’re looking to stay in a luxury hotel instead of camping or glamping, hit the Amangani resort in Jackson! This resort includes hot air balloon rides, tours of wildlife and the surrounding areas, as well as pools and hot tubs with views of the Tetons.
What to do during your Grand Teton elopement:
- Hike any of the breathtaking trails in the area outside of the park
- View wildlife–moose, elk, and bison are all roaming
- Visit the cowboy bars and museums in Jackson
- Take a guided horseback ride through the mountains
If you’re looking for a truly Western wedding, a Grand Teton elopement is the way to go!
Read more:
Grand Teton National Park Elopement Info
A couple during their Glacier National Park elopement day.
Rocky Mountain Elopement Location #3
Glacier National Park, Montana
For the couples who want rugged wilderness and aren’t afraid to get a little dirty, meet your new elopement location, Glacier National Park! There are over 700 miles of trails in this incredible national park, and the views are about as good as you’d imagine they’d be with a nickname like Crown of the Continent! Located in the northwest corner of Montana along the Canadian border, this park may seem a little out of the way, but trust me, it’s totally worth it!
You can also find amazing historic backcountry chalets to rent and spend the night in. The towns of Kalispell and Whitefish provide the extra amenities that are perfect for couples who want a small-town western experience with great shops and restaurants.
What to do during your Glacier National Park elopement:
- Hike, hike, hike!
- Visit the stunning rainbow rocks on Lake McDonald
- Catch a sunrise or sunset–they’re pretty dang incredible here!
- Rent a room in a backcountry chalet to stay in
For couples with an adventurous mindset who want to see a truly incredible corner of the world, a Glacier National Park elopement is for you!
A couple at sunrise during their Breckenridge, Colorado elopement day.
Rocky Mountain Elopement Location #4
Breckenridge, Colorado
This quaint mountain town is ideal for skiers, hikers, and adventurers of all kinds. Located two hours south of Denver (an easy flight in!) and at the base of the Rocky Mountain Tenmile Range, Breckenridge has tons to offer for eloping couples.
The Breckenridge Ski Resort is a fun attraction for couples who want a snowy winter elopement and then hit the powder afterward. The resort is fun at all times of the year, as you can ride the ski lift to catch some magnificent views and enjoy the alpine slide and Gold Runner Coaster!
This town also has the added benefit of being extremely dog-friendly, so don’t forget to invite your pets to your elopement, too!
What to do during your Breckenridge elopement:
- Go skiing at the Breckenridge Ski Resort
- Hit the town–there are tons of top-notch restaurants and cute shops
- Visit one of the many breweries in the area
- Hike in the breathtaking mountains nearby
If you’re searching for a location filled with attractions for your whole crew to enjoy while still enjoying incredible views, definitely consider a Breckenridge elopement for your big day!
The Rocky Mountains are filled with beautiful locations, both secret and not-so-secret, that will make for an epic spot for your elopement.
Rocky Mountain Elopement Location #5
Any Hidden Gem Your Heart Desires!
The Rocky Mountains are full of amazing places to elope, many of which have yet to be discovered! As a Colorado elopement photographer, I take on the challenge of scouting barely-touched mountain vistas and secluded wilderness spots so your elopement can be as unique as you are! And if there is a place that is meaningful to you, there couldn’t be a more perfect spot for your wedding day. So, let’s think outside the box, try new Rocky Mountain elopement locations on for size, and create a sensational experience you’ll treasure forever.
No matter where in the Mountain West you want to get married, I’m 100% down to find the perfect spot. If you want more information on any of these locations or you’re interested in booking me as your Rocky Mountain elopement photographer, I’d love to meet you! Just say the word.