Affordable Places to Elope in Colorado — Epic Mountain Views Without Breaking the Bank
Colorado is one of the most breathtaking states in the U.S. to elope, offering dramatic mountain backdrops, high-alpine lakes, red rock formations, and easily accessible scenic overlooks. Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate ceremony with just your partner or inviting a handful of guests (keep in mind most of these spots have gathering size limits), there are plenty of affordable places to elope in Colorado — many for under $500 in permit or rental fees.
As a Colorado Elopement Photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how couples make wedding memories of their own at some of these spots without draining their budget. Here’s a guide to budget-friendly elopement spots across The Centennial State.
🏔️ Maroon Bells Amphitheater — Aspen
Permit Fee: ≈ $200
One of Colorado’s most iconic and jaw-dropping backdrops, the Maroon Bells Amphitheater near Aspen offers alpine lakes, peaks, and wildflower meadows that photograph like a dream. It’s an extremely competitive permit location, most days selling out within minutes, so plan early and set an alarm! Reservations open a year in advance on a rolling basis.
Why It’s Great:
- Classic Colorado scenery with mirrored lakes.
- Accessible without long hikes (shuttle or early parking pass in shoulder seasons).
- Amphitheater can hold up to 50 people.
🌅 Sapphire Point Overlook — Dillon / Breckenridge
Permit Fee: ≈ $110–$142
Perched on Swan Mountain above Dillon Reservoir, Sapphire Point Overlook blends panoramic mountain and water views without a strenuous hike. It’s one of the most popular affordable and accessible places to elope in Colorado. Time slots can be reserved in 3-hour increments, giving you more than enough time for an intimate ceremony, guest portraits and conversing with your loved ones.
* Please note the new Sapphire Point North Overlook has been completed. Starting June 14, 2026 all Sapphire Point reservations will be for the new north overlook. The old west overlook will no longer be used for reservations or events. *
Why It’s Great:
- Accessible for Grandma (short walk from parking).
- Stunning views with minimal effort — lots of areas nearby for portraits.
- Up to 30 guests allowed.
🌲 Julia’s Deck — Vail
Permit Fee: Typically under $500
Julia’s Deck is a sweet forested platform tucked in the Vail area — ideal for smaller, intimate ceremonies. The atmosphere is secluded and personal, without huge permit hurdles.
Why It’s Great:
- Forest setting feels private and romantic.
- Close to charming Vail village for lodging or celebration afterward.
- Perfect for couples wanting a Colorado elopement in the forest.
🪨 Garden of the Gods — Colorado Springs
Permit Fee: Free or minimal special use fee
The striking red rock formations at Garden of the Gods create an unforgettable elopement backdrop. While certain ceremony spots may need a permit for larger groups, many couples elope here with no permit at all — making it one of the most affordable places to elope in Colorado.
Why It’s Great:
- Dramatic, unique & diverse scenery — offering red rocks, white rocks, views of Pikes Peak, and grassy areas.
- No permit required in most spots (first-come, first-served).
- Easy access and close to restaurants & lodging.
- Accessible year-round.
🏞️ Rocky Mountain National Park — Estes Park
Permit Fee: ≈ $300
While a little pricier than other spots on the list, Rocky Mountain National Park still qualifies as an “affordable” elopement location compared to private venues. There are multiple stunning ceremony sites, from lakes to alpine meadows. Please note you do have to get married at one of the designated ceremony sites, but you can take portraits anywhere in the park. Personally, I think the $300 price tag is totally worth it to have a reserved ceremony site and access to the whole park for photos. Some of my favorite RMNP elopement ceremony sites include Lily Lake and 3M Curve.
Why It’s Great:
- Diverse terrain + ceremony site options — forest, meadows, lakes, mountains.
- Tons of options for photos and mini adventures.
- Accessible year-round.
- Ceremony sites can hold anywhere from 10-30 guests.
🏔️ Loveland Pass
Permit Fee: Free
Not all beautiful spots require permits! Loveland Pass offers incredible views with zero fees. Though this is a popular spot for tourists, it’s large enough to share and the views are plentiful in every single direction. Please keep in mind that this spot is over 11,000 feet in elevation and sometimes guests can have a hard time with altitude sickness.
Why It’s Great:
- Panoramic mountain views in every direction.
- Minimal hiking involved.
- Great for just-the-two-of-you ceremonies + exploring the nearby alpine lakes.
📸 Bonus: Tips for Working with a Colorado Elopement Photographer
It’s important you find a photographer that’s local to Colorado. Choosing a photographer familiar with these locations can make all the difference in your elopement experience:
- Permitting Guidance: Many pros can help secure permits and plan logistics.
- Timing & Light: Local photographers know the best light (sunrise/sunset) for each spot.
- Alternative Solutions: If your permit is snagged, there are unexpected road closures, or adverse weather, they can suggest equally stunning nearby options.
💡 Pro Tips for Affordable Elopements in Colorado
Plan Early: Popular spots like Maroon Bells and Sapphire Point book out months in advance due to limited permits.
Weekday Dates: You’ll often have more availability (and fewer crowds). I’ve actually switched to weekdays-only for elopements for this reason.
Consider Off-Peak Seasons: Shoulder seasons (late spring, early fall) offer beautiful weather and sometimes better permit availability.
Our state is full of affordable places to elope in Colorado — from classic alpine lakes and peaks to red rocks and inspirational overlooks. Whether your budget includes a small permit fee or you’re aiming for a free ceremony with killer views, this state delivers unforgettable settings for your special day.
If you’d like help narrowing locations for your season, style, or photography needs (like working with a Colorado Elopement Photographer), just let me know!
