Are you thinking about eloping in Colorado?
Boulder, Colorado, is such an awesome elopement destination. With plenty of places to elope in Colorado, you’ll have no shortage of options when you choose this charming city.
My experience as a Boulder elopement photographer has given me the chance to explore tons of Colorado’s hidden gems.
From an adventurous mountain elopement to quiet, intimate spots, I’ve seen the best of the best when it comes to places to elope in Colorado.
This elopement planning guide will help you figure out how to plan an elopement wedding in Boulder, Colorado, as I take you through the best places, tips for eloping, and more for an unforgettable experience.
What is a Boulder Elopement?
Before we dive into details, let’s clarify what makes an elopement different from a traditional wedding.
Elopements are smaller gatherings – the term traditionally described ceremonies that occurred spontaneously, in secret, or in a highly private manner. In 2026, choosing an elopement over a traditional wedding is an intentional choice by couples seeking a more intimate, personal experience without the expectations of a conventional wedding.
Today’s elopements can include just the two of you, a handful of close family, or a small group of your favorite people. The focus shifts from guest management to being fully present with each other.
Why Choose a Boulder Elopement?
Deciding where to elope in Colorado is a big task, but Boulder should be at the top of your list. Here’s why.
The Activities
There are plenty of options for activities to make your Boulder elopement one to remember. Want to take a wedding hike for your ceremony and have a mountaintop elopement? Boulder has that.
Want to have your ceremony and go paddleboarding? Boulder has that too, at spots like Boulder Gross Reservoir. Paddleboarding, boating, picnicking, and more are fun activities you can incorporate into your day.
The Location and Mountain Views
If you want to elope in the mountains, Boulder is the place. The stunning locations and views can’t be beaten.
Eloping gives you far more opportunities for unique ceremony locations than a traditional wedding venue. Boulder offers everything from dramatic overlooks on Flagstaff Mountain to creekside spots at Chautauqua Park.
Simply put, for nature lovers looking to elope in the mountains, Boulder is a dream come true. From Brainard Lake to hiking at Artist Point, Boulder is packed with dreamlike elopement locations. The Boulder Halfway House is one of my favorite places for photographing stunning ceremonies.
Colorado’s Self-Solemnization Laws
One of the biggest draws for Boulder elopements? Colorado allows self-solemnization, meaning you can legally marry yourselves without an officiant or witnesses. Your dog can even sign your marriage license.
This makes Colorado one of the only states where you can have a truly private ceremony—just the two of you saying your vows with no one else required.
Unbeatable Food and Drinks Scene
Only a few guests are invited to your elopement ceremony: you, your photographer, any close friends or family, and tasty food and drinks. Boulder offers many incredible places to celebrate.
Consider a round of drinks at Twisted Irons Brewery or upscale cocktails at Corrida Boulder, one of my favorite restaurants. No matter where you end up, your celebration will be memorable.
Best Boulder Elopement Locations
If you’re looking for the best places to elope in Colorado, Boulder won’t disappoint. Here are my favorite spots to photograph elopement ceremonies.
Flagstaff Mountain
Flagstaff Mountain is a dream for nature lovers who want stunning Colorado views without hiking far for them. Parts of the mountain are open and driveable year-round, making it an accessible destination for your ceremony.
The overlooks on Flagstaff offer panoramic views of Boulder and the plains beyond, with mountain peaks stretching in every direction. Sunrise and sunset are especially magical here.
Chautauqua Park
Among Boulder’s most iconic parks is the historic Chautauqua Park, located right by the beautiful Flatirons. While it’s typically more crowded than other spots, Chautauqua Park is stunning and perfect for a simple elopement.
The park also offers lodging in historic cottages if you want to stay on-site. It’s also a rad spot for Boulder engagement photos!
Lost Gulch Overlook
If you’re looking for a dramatic mountain elopement backdrop, Lost Gulch Overlook can’t be beaten. This rocky overlook offers sweeping views of the Continental Divide and feels genuinely wild.
Note: Lost Gulch can’t be reserved for weekend ceremonies due to crowds. Weekday elopements or sunrise ceremonies work best here.
Flatirons Vista
Combine hiking with the gorgeous backdrop of the Flatirons for the mountain elopement of a lifetime. Several trails in this area offer incredible views and intimate ceremony spots.
Eldorado Canyon State Park
Hiking and nature lovers will find their dream elopement location at Eldorado Canyon State Park—a spot that’s too often overlooked among Colorado’s many elopement destinations.
The canyon offers dramatic rock formations, creek access, and multiple ceremony location options. It’s especially stunning for couples who love rock climbing or want adventure incorporated into their day.
Boulder Falls
Looking to tie the knot by water and incorporate some adventure? Check out Boulder Falls for a stunning but simple elopement. The waterfall provides natural white noise and a gorgeous backdrop.
The Peoples Crossing
If you want your elopement to be about stunning views, you can’t go wrong with a ceremony at The Peoples’ Crossing. This spot has breathtaking rock formations and mountain views, making for a peaceful ceremony with unforgettable photo opportunities.
How Do You Plan a Boulder Elopement?
Ready to plan your Boulder elopement? Here’s everything you need to know.
Create Your Elopement Timeline
Above all else, make a timeline. While elopements don’t require the stressful planning that comes with traditional weddings, you’ll still need to work out details.
Anyone wondering how to plan an elopement should have specific dates for their ceremony and consider the season, weather, and time of day for best light and temperatures. This is going to vary greatly by season. As a Boulder Elopement Photographer I help all of my couples create a custom timeline.
Get Your Marriage License
If you’re eloping, you’ll still need a marriage license. Connect with the Boulder County Clerk and Recorder offices to start this process. They can usually issue a license same day when applying in person – but it can be a littler more complicated when applying remotely, so I’d recommend starting this process ahead of time.
Important: You can get your license from any Colorado county, but you must return the completed certificate to the same county where you obtained it. There’s no residency requirement—even out-of-state couples can get married in Boulder.
Understand Boulder Permits
Do you need permits for your Boulder elopement? It depends on your location and whether you have guests.
Most OSMP (Open Space and Mountain Parks) locations allow ceremonies without guests and with a photographer who has a commercial permit (I renew mine every year).
If you want guests present, you’ll need to reserve one of the designated shelters or picnic areas. Make sure you complete this process in advance to avoid last-minute issues.
Quick permit summary:
- Just you two + photographer: Usually no permit needed (photographer needs commercial permit)
- With guests: Need to reserve OSMP shelter or designated area
- Weekend ceremonies at popular spots: Book early, some locations prohibit weekend ceremonies
If you have any doubts, talk to your photographer—they’ll help you navigate permit requirements.
Decide on Self-Solemnization vs. Officiant
Colorado allows self-solemnization, meaning you don’t need an officiant or witnesses to be legally married. You can marry yourselves by exchanging vows and signing your marriage license.
Your dog can even sign as your witness (yes, really).
If you prefer having an officiant to guide the ceremony or if you’re having guests, you can hire one. But it’s not required in Colorado.
Choose Your Season
Best time for a Boulder elopement: Late May through October offers the best weather and temperatures. Fall (September-October) is especially popular for golden aspen trees.
Summer considerations: Afternoon thunderstorms are common. Plan your ceremony for morning or late afternoon to avoid the 2-5pm storm window.
Winter elopements: Possible but require more planning. Snow is beautiful but roads can be tricky, and some mountain locations are inaccessible.
Where to Stay for Your Boulder Elopement
Before you head to Boulder, make sure you have accommodations prepared. There’s no shortage of Airbnbs, hotels, and other places to stay in or near Boulder.
Recommended lodging:
What to Wear for Your Boulder Elopement
Boulder’s elevation (5,400 feet) and mountain setting mean weather can change quickly. Here’s what to consider:
For all seasons: Layers are your friend. Even summer days can have cool mornings and evenings.
Footwear: If you’re hiking to your ceremony spot, bring comfortable shoes for the hike and change into your ceremony shoes once you arrive.
Weather backup: Have a plan for unexpected weather. Bring a jacket, shawl, or blanket for cooler temperatures.
For detailed outfit ideas, check out my guide on what to wear to elope.
Where to Celebrate After Your Boulder Elopement
Eloping often involves a private ceremony with very few or no guests. That said, some couples like to celebrate with a few family and friends after their ceremony.
Rembrandt Yard is at the top of my list for post-elopement celebrations if you’re looking for a reception space in Boulder. They have specific elopement packages and discounted weekday rates.
Boulder restaurants worth considering for small celebrations:
Flagstaff House (mountain views + incredible food)
The Kitchen (farm-to-table dining)
Rosetta Hall (multi-restaurant dining hall with a rooftop bar!)
Boulder Elopement FAQ
Do You Need Witnesses to Elope in Boulder?
Not in Colorado! A Colorado elopement doesn’t require an officiant or any witnesses to be legally married. I have a whole blog about self-solemnizing marriage ceremonies here.
Can Our Dog Be Part of Our Boulder Elopement?
Absolutely. Dogs are welcome on most Boulder trails (on-leash), and your dog can even sign your marriage license as a witness. Boulder is incredibly dog-friendly.
How Much Does a Boulder Elopement Cost?
Costs vary widely depending on your choices, but here’s a general breakdown:
- Marriage license: $30
- Photographer: $2,000-$5,000 (depending on level of experience, and length of coverage)
- Lodging: $150-$400/night
- Permits (if needed): $0-$200
- Celebration dinner: $100-$400
- Travel to location: Varies
Boulder elopements are significantly less expensive than traditional weddings, with most couples spending $3,000-$8,000 total.
What’s the Best Time of Day for a Boulder Elopement?
Sunrise: Best for avoiding crowds, especially at popular spots like Lost Gulch Overlook or Chautauqua Park. The light is stunning and you’ll have a lot more privacy.
Late afternoon/Sunset: Golden hour light (1-2 hours before sunset) offers that beautiful golden how look. Locations tend to be busier – so either prepare to have more of the public around, or work with your photographer to find something a little more secluded.
Midday: Less ideal for photos due to harsh overhead light, avoid it possible!
Looking for a Boulder Elopement Photographer?
If you’re looking to elope in Colorado, Boulder is the perfect place. Planning your Boulder elopement means you’ll need a photographer to capture the beautiful memories of your day.
I offer Boulder elopement packages starting at $2,400 including a handmade heirloom album, so you can tangibly own your memories. Whether you want a simple ceremony and portraits or full-day coverage from sunrise hikes to celebration dinner, I have options that work for your vision.
I’ve been photographing elopements for 10 years and know Boulder inside out. I’ll help you find the perfect location for your ceremony, navigate permit requirements, plan your timeline around the best light, and dinner recommendation to finish up. Think of me as your guide who also happens to capture incredible photos.
From scrambling up to Lost Gulch at sunrise to finding hidden spots in Eldorado Canyon, I’m here to help you craft an adventurous day that’s completely yours—and document it all as it unfolds.
Contact me today to talk about your Boulder elopement and start planning your adventure.
