Colorado’s stunning landscapes make it an incredible place to elope. From mountains to lakes and deserts, there are countless places to say “I do” without paying a cent. In this guide, you’ll find 30 free places to elope in Colorado, sorted by region.
Free Places to Elope in Northern Colorado
Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP)
Location: Estes Park, CO
- Bear Lake
- Sprague Lake
- Hidden Valley
Horsetooth Reservoir
Location: Fort Collins, CO
This reservoir offers panoramic views and hidden spots along the trails.
Devil’s Backbone Open Space
Location: Loveland, CO
A dramatic rock formation, perfect for couples seeking a rugged landscape.
Cache La Poudre River Canyon
Location: Near Fort Collins, CO
This scenic canyon offers multiple pull-offs for private elopements along the river.
Bobcat Ridge Natural Area
Location: Loveland, CO
Enjoy stunning foothills and wide-open spaces with no fees required.
Free Places to Elope in Western Colorado
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Location: Montrose, CO
Eloping at Pulpit Rock Overlook or Cedar Point provides incredible views.
Curecanti National Recreation Area
Location: Gunnison, CO
Ideal for water-loving couples, the Blue Mesa Reservoir offers a dramatic backdrop.
Colorado National Monument
Location: Fruita, CO
A hidden gem for desert vibes, with free locations like Independence Monument.
Grand Mesa
Location: Mesa, CO
At 10,000 feet, this flat-topped mountain offers lakes, meadows, and woodlands perfect for an intimate elopement.
Dominguez Canyon
Location: Near Grand Junction, CO
For couples looking for seclusion, this canyon features waterfalls, rock art, and red rock cliffs.
Free Places to Elope in Central Colorado
Maroon Bells
Location: Aspen, CO
This iconic mountain range offers stunning scenery, especially in fall.
Twin Lakes
Location: Leadville, CO
Eloping lakeside with the towering mountains of Colorado in the background is magical here.
Mount Evans
Location: Idaho Springs, CO
The top of Mount Evans provides unmatched mountain views.
Great Sand Dunes National Park
Location: Mosca, CO
Say your vows surrounded by towering sand dunes with the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in the background.
Loveland Pass
Location: Arapaho National Forest
Eloping at the Continental Divide offers expansive views and easy access to stunning scenery.
Mount Elbert
Location: Leadville, CO
The highest peak in Colorado offers incredible views and seclusion for adventurous couples.
Chicago Lakes Trail
Location: Near Idaho Springs, CO
Hike up this trail for a serene elopement next to alpine lakes surrounded by mountain peaks.
Free Places to Elope in Southern Colorado
Garden of the Gods
Location: Colorado Springs, CO
This famous park is perfect for couples seeking dramatic red rock formations.
Paint Mines Interpretive Park
Location: Calhan, CO
Unique, colorful rock formations make this a one-of-a-kind elopement location.
The Flatirons
Location: Boulder, CO
These iconic rock formations provide a natural amphitheater for your vows.
Red Rock Canyon Open Space
Location: Colorado Springs, CO
A less crowded alternative to Garden of the Gods, with stunning red rock formations.
Mueller State Park
Location: Divide, CO
With 55 miles of trails, you can easily find a secluded spot to elope in the forested landscape.
Free Places to Elope in Southwestern Colorado
San Juan National Forest
Location: Durango, CO
A large national forest offering diverse landscapes like Spud Lake or Ice Lakes Basin for your elopement.
Telluride Town Park
Location: Telluride, CO
The charming town park offers breathtaking views of surrounding cliffs and waterfalls.
Lizard Head Wilderness
Location: Near Telluride, CO
For adventurous couples, this wilderness area offers alpine meadows and towering peaks.
Yankee Boy Basin
Location: Ouray, CO
Known for its wildflower-filled meadows in summer, this area is stunning for elopements.
Animas River Trail
Location: Durango, CO
A peaceful riverside trail that offers a quiet spot to exchange vows.
Free Places to Elope in Eastern Colorado
Pawnee Buttes
Location: Weld County, CO
This rugged area of the plains features towering rock formations and vast open spaces.
Paint Rock Cliffs
Location: Brush, CO
A quiet and remote spot with colorful cliffs that make for a unique elopement backdrop.
Jackson Lake State Park
Location: Orchard, CO
This reservoir offers sandy beaches and calm waters, perfect for a water-side elopement.
Free Places to Elope in The High Rockies
Sapphire Point Overlook
Location: Dillon, CO
With panoramic views of Lake Dillon, this overlook is a top elopement spot for couples.
Dillon Reservoir
Location: Dillon, CO
A large body of water surrounded by mountain peaks, perfect for a lakeside ceremony.
Guanella Pass
Location: Georgetown, CO
This scenic mountain pass is known for wildflowers in the summer and fall foliage.
Monarch Lake
Location: Granby, CO
Tucked away near Grand Lake, this spot offers peace, quiet, and stunning reflections of the mountains.
Brainard Lake Recreation Area
Location: Ward, CO
With dramatic mountain backdrops and a peaceful lake, this area is perfect for an elopement in nature.
Additional Elopement Tips
- Plan for the Season: Colorado’s weather varies significantly, so choose your location and season wisely.
- Leave No Trace: Protect the beautiful landscapes by following Leave No Trace principles.
- Self-Solemnization: Colorado allows couples to marry without an officiant or witnesses, making it easier to elope anywhere.
Eloping in Colorado doesn’t have to be expensive. With so many free, breathtaking locations to choose from, you can have the adventure-filled wedding day of your dreams. Whether you want mountains, lakes, deserts, or forests, this state has it all. Happy planning!
