Sunset Elopement at Loveland Pass
A Sunset Elopement at Loveland Pass
Kylie and Zach’s Loveland Pass elopement was the perfect blend of intentionality, adventure, and breathtaking Colorado scenery. Traveling all the way from St. Louis, they knew they wanted to exchange vows in a place that felt wild and meaningful — and they also knew they wanted their families to be there to witness it. That’s one of the reasons Loveland Pass stood out as the ideal location. Unlike many high-alpine spots with limited space, this overlook offers wide-open mountain views and room for their family to gather comfortably, making it an ideal setting for a Colorado elopement.
As the afternoon light softened and the sun sank toward the peaks of the Rockies, Kylie and Zach celebrated their love surrounded by the people who matter most — all against the backdrop of one of the most stunning Colorado mountain elopement locations.
Why Loveland Pass Is the Perfect Colorado Elopement Location
If you’re dreaming of a breathtaking Colorado elopement, it’s hard to beat the dramatic scenery of Loveland Pass. Sitting at nearly 12,000 feet, this high-alpine location offers sweeping mountain views in every direction, making it one of the most iconic spots for a Colorado mountain elopement. Whether you’re planning an intimate ceremony for just the two of you or inviting your closest loved ones, Loveland Pass provides plenty of space for guests without compromising those epic Rocky Mountain backdrops.
One of the biggest reasons couples choose a Loveland Pass elopement is its accessibility. You can drive directly to the summit overlook — no long hikes required — which means families, grandparents, and friends can easily join in on your celebration. With its ever-changing light, golden tundra, and panoramic vistas, it’s a photographer’s dream location for capturing every moment of your adventure elopement in Colorado.
From windswept ridgelines to warm alpenglow sunsets, Loveland Pass brings the magic of the mountains to life, making it a truly unforgettable choice for any couple seeking a Colorado elopement location that’s both stunning and convenient.
Kylie + Zach’s Elopement Story
Kylie and Zach’s journey to their Loveland Pass elopement started long before they ever set foot in Colorado. After getting engaged, they realized that a traditional wedding didn’t feel like them. They wanted something more intentional — a day centered on their love, surrounded by the people who had supported them most. Colorado had always held a special place in their hearts, so choosing to travel from St. Louis for a Colorado elopement felt like the perfect way to start this new chapter.
When they discovered Loveland Pass, everything clicked. They instantly fell in love with the sweeping mountain views and the peacefulness of standing above the tree line. Most importantly, they knew the location would allow their families to comfortably join them — something that meant the world to them. Their vision was simple: an emotional, heartfelt ceremony in a place that reflected the beauty and depth of their relationship.
Every part of their Colorado mountain elopement was crafted with intention. From the handwritten vows they read as the afternoon light softened, to the quiet moments shared with family before exploring the ridgelines together, their day was a perfect blend of adventure and intimacy. Kylie and Zach didn’t just choose a breathtaking location — they chose a way of getting married that felt true to who they are.
The Elopement Day Timeline
Kylie and Zach’s Loveland Pass elopement unfolded slowly and intentionally, beginning in the warm afternoon light and ending in one of the most stunning sunsets the Rockies can offer. Their timeline was crafted to enjoy their families and soak in every moment of their Colorado mountain elopement experience.
Arrival at Loveland Pass
Kylie and Zach met their families at the summit overlook, where everyone took a moment to adjust to the altitude and admire the panoramic views. The soft breeze and wide-open skies set the perfect tone for a relaxed, heartfelt Colorado elopement.
Ceremony Surrounded by Family
Their families gathered in a spacious open area that comfortably accommodated everyone, one of the reasons they chose a Loveland Pass elopement in the first place. As Kylie walked down the “aisle,” their close family friend snuck up to the front to stand with Zach. They had secretly planned that he would be the officiant, surprising the whole family. With the mountains surrounding Kylie and Zach, and the glow of late-afternoon light, they exchanged vows.
Post-Ceremony Family Time
After sealing their vows with a kiss, the couple spent time hugging loved ones, taking group photos, and soaking in the excitement of the moment. The accessibility of Loveland Pass made it easy for everyone — from siblings to grandparents — to be part of their mountain celebration.
Adventure Portraits + Sunset Exploration
As the sun dipped lower, Kylie and Zach wandered along the trail for portraits. This golden-hour portion of their adventure elopement in Colorado was filled with windblown hair, endless peaks, and that iconic alpine alpenglow. The colors shifted from warm golds to soft pinks, giving them a truly magical ending to their day.
Sunset at the Summit
They wrapped up their evening watching the sun disappear behind the mountains, holding each other close as the sky lit up in shades of orange and violet. It was the perfect, peaceful end to a day that was uniquely their own.
Weather + Seasonal Tips for Loveland Pass Elopements
Planning a Loveland Pass elopement means embracing the beauty — and unpredictability — of high-altitude weather. At nearly 12,000 feet, this location offers some of the most stunning views for a Colorado elopement, but it also comes with unique conditions you’ll want to prepare for.
High-Altitude Weather Changes Quickly
Even in summer, temperatures at Loveland Pass can shift fast. An afternoon that starts warm can turn windy or chilly in minutes. Layers are essential — think jackets, wraps, hand warmers, and sturdy shoes. Wind is incredibly common at this elevation, so plan for it, embrace it, and trust that it adds movement and emotion to your Colorado mountain elopement photos. Afternoon thunderstorms are very common in the mountains, so if you plan to get married June through August, have a backup plan or get married at sunrise.
Best Time of Year to Elope at Loveland Pass
The most reliable months for a Loveland Pass elopement are late June through early October. During this window, the road is typically clear, the tundra is vibrant, and sunset conditions are phenomenal. Spring and late fall can also be beautiful, but snowstorms can roll in unexpectedly, and the pass can temporarily close.
Parking + Accessibility
One of the reasons Loveland Pass is such a popular Colorado elopement location is its accessibility. You can drive straight to the summit parking area — no hiking required — which makes it ideal for couples eloping with family. That said, parking is limited.
Altitude Awareness
If you or your guests are traveling from lower elevations (like Kylie and Zach coming from St. Louis), take it slow. Drink water, give yourselves time to acclimate, and avoid strenuous activity right away. The ceremony area is close to the parking lot, which helps minimize exertion during your adventure elopement in Colorado.
Sunset Timing
Since Kylie and Zach celebrated an afternoon-to-sunset timeline, it’s worth noting how quickly the temperature drops once the sun dips behind the peaks. Bring extra layers for the final hour of the day — the light is incredible, but the chill comes fast!
How to Plan a Loveland Pass Elopement
Planning a Loveland Pass elopement is surprisingly simple — and incredibly rewarding — when you know what to expect. Whether you’re eloping just the two of you or bringing family along like Kylie and Zach, this high-alpine location offers the perfect mix of accessibility and jaw-dropping mountain scenery. Here’s everything you need to create an unforgettable Colorado elopement experience.
Permits + Regulations
The best news? At the time of writing, Loveland Pass does not require a specific wedding permit for small ceremonies, making it one of the more accessible Colorado elopement locations. However, regulations can change, so always double-check with the U.S. Forest Service before finalizing your plans. If your group is larger or you’re bringing props, arches, or décor, you may need a permit.
Choosing the Best Time of Day
For the most magical lighting, aim for late afternoon into sunset — exactly what Kylie and Zach chose. The soft, golden light in the last few hours of the day transforms the landscape and creates stunning photos for your Colorado mountain elopement.
Bring the Right Gear
Weather at 12,000 feet can be unpredictable, so pack layers, gloves, plenty of water, and comfortable shoes. If you’re bringing family, encourage them to prepare similarly. A small blanket or shawl is especially helpful once the temperature drops during sunset. Canned oxygen can also come in handy for yourself or older guests.
Selecting Your Vendors
Hiring the right team makes your Loveland Pass elopement smooth and stress-free. Look for a local Colorado elopement photographer who knows the area well and understands how to work with high-altitude light and weather. Many photographers — myself included — can also help with timeline guidance, backup locations, and logistics.
Plan a Post-Elopement Celebration
Because Loveland Pass is a wilderness area without facilities, many couples continue the celebration elsewhere. Consider heading to nearby Dillon, Silverthorne, Breckenridge, or Idaho Springs for a cozy dinner or private gathering with family afterward.
Have a Backup Plan
Weather can shift quickly, and the pass can occasionally close for storms, even in summer. A savvy adventure elopement in Colorado always includes a backup location nearby — something lower in elevation but still beautiful — just in case.
Final Thoughts + Why You Should Consider a Colorado Mountain Elopement
Kylie and Zach’s Loveland Pass elopement is a perfect reminder that your wedding day can be anything you want it to be — meaningful, stress-free, and surrounded by the people who matter most. By choosing to travel and exchange vows against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, they created a day that was not only beautiful, but truly theirs. That’s the magic of a Colorado elopement: it gives you the freedom to celebrate in a way that reflects your relationship, your priorities, and your sense of adventure.
Locations like Loveland Pass make this experience even more special. With sweeping alpine views, accessible ceremony spots, and some of the best sunsets in the state, it’s easy to see why couples from all over the country choose this area for their Colorado mountain elopement. Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate moment with just the two of you or planning to bring loved ones along, Colorado offers endless ways to create a wedding day that feels authentic and unforgettable.
If you’re considering your own adventure elopement in Colorado, Loveland Pass is a stunning place to start. And when you’re ready, working with an experienced Colorado elopement photographer can help bring your vision to life and ensure every moment is documented with care.
xo, taylor
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Wedding vendors that made this day possible:
Photographer: @taylorhassebroekphoto
Videographer: @cameronmartinezphoto
