How to Elope in Colorado
A simple, stress-free guide to planning your Colorado elopement.
If you’re feeling excited and overwhelmed — unsure where to start or what’s required — that’s completely normal. Colorado is one of the most elopement-friendly states in the U.S., offering stunning locations, flexible marriage laws, and fewer hoops to jump through than most places.
In this guide, I’m breaking down exactly how to elope in Colorado, step by step — from marriage licenses to permits, officiants, dogs, and locations. I’ve helped couples plan and photograph Colorado elopements who started right here, and my goal is to make this feel clear, doable, and calm.
Why Elope in Colorado?
Colorado is a top elopement destination for a reason:
- No witnesses required
- You don’t need an officiant
- Jaw-dropping scenery year-round
- Easy access to public lands
- Flexible rules for adventurous couples
Whether you’re planning a just-us ceremony or inviting a handful of loved ones, eloping in Colorado gives you freedom without sacrificing beauty or meaning.
How Do We Get a Marriage License in Colorado?
Many couples freeze up at the thought of legal stuff — because it feels like a checklist they weren’t ready for. I promise you don’t need to memorize it to move forward.
Here’s how it works:
- You apply through any Colorado county clerk’s office
- Both partners must appear together (in person or virtually, depending on county)
- Bring valid photo IDs
- Pay the fee (usually around $30)
There is no waiting period, which means you can get your license and get married the same day.
Once issued, your marriage license is valid for 35 days anywhere in Colorado. Check out this guide on How to Obtain your Colorado Marriage License: Click Here
How Do I Find a Location to Elope in Colorado?
Choosing a location is usually the most overwhelming part of planning a Colorado elopement. Most couples don’t even know where to start—and that’s completely normal.
This is where I step in.
I don’t just send you a list of places and wish you luck. I walk you through the entire process—so you don’t end up overwhelmed, second-guessing your choice, or realizing too late that a location doesn’t work for your season, accessibility needs, or guest count.
To find the right location, I ask questions like:
- “Do you want the mountains towering above you, or wide open landscapes that feel expansive and grounding?”
- “Do you want to feel like you’re standing on top of the world, overlooking endless mountain peaks?”
- “Are you drawn to alpine lakes, wildflowers, or fall colors?”
- “Do you want a quiet, easily accessible spot—or an adventurous hike that feels like an accomplishment?”
Some of the regions I regularly help couples elope in include places like Rocky Mountain National Park, Crested Butte, the San Juan Mountains, Telluride, and Maroon Bells—along with lesser-known national forest and BLM locations that offer more privacy and flexibility.
I save my personal location recommendations for our one-on-one conversation, because choosing the right place isn’t about a “best of” list—it’s about finding a location that fits you, your vision, your season, and how you want your day to feel.
If you want help narrowing it down with confidence, that’s exactly what our consultation is for.
Feeling overwhelmed by location options?
That’s exactly what I help with. I’ll walk you through choosing a Colorado elopement location that fits your vision, season, accessibility needs, and guest count — without the stress.
See if we’d be a good fit → Start Here
Can My Dog Sign My Marriage License in Colorado?
This is one of the most common questions couples ask — and the answer is kind of.
Legally speaking:
- Colorado does not require witnesses
- Only the two marrying partners need to sign the license
Your dog cannot legally sign the marriage license as a required signature. However, many couples choose to:
- Add a paw print as a fun keepsake
- Include their dog symbolically in the process
Some county clerks are totally fine with a paw print as an extra (non-legal) addition — but the legal signatures must be yours.
So yes, your dog can absolutely be part of the moment — just not the official legal requirement.
Do We Need an Officiant to Elope in Colorado?
Nope — and this is one of the biggest reasons couples choose to elope here.
Colorado allows self-solemnization, which means:
- You can legally marry yourselves
- No officiant required
- No witnesses required
You and your partner simply sign your marriage license yourselves after your ceremony.
That said, some couples still choose to include an officiant for personal, spiritual, or storytelling reasons — totally optional.
Do I Need a Permit to Elope in Colorado?
Sometimes — and it depends on where you’re eloping.
You may need a permit if:
- You’re eloping in a national park
- You’re using a designated ceremony site
- You’re bringing guests, chairs, arches, or décor
You typically do not need a permit for:
- Simple ceremonies on national forest or BLM land
- No set-up, no décor, and minimal impact
Each location has its own rules, which is why having a knowledgeable photographer or planner can make a huge difference — they can help you choose a legal, low-stress spot and avoid surprises.
Here are a few popular locations and their permits, rules, and regulations:
When Is the Best Time to Elope in Colorado?
Colorado elopements happen year-round, but each season offers something different:
- Summer: Wildflowers, alpine access, long daylight
- Fall: Golden aspens, fewer crowds, cooler temps
- Winter: Snowy magic, cozy vibes, fewer permits required
- Spring: Variable weather, muddy trails, dramatic skies
The “best” time really depends on what kind of experience you want — adventurous, cozy, colorful, or secluded.
Final Thoughts: How to Elope in Colorado the Right Way
Eloping in Colorado isn’t just about incredible views — it’s about creating a day that feels intentional, grounded, and true to you.
If this guide helped you realize:
- You don’t need to have everything figured out yet
- You want your elopement to feel meaningful, not stressful
- You’d love support choosing locations, navigating permits, and building a timeline that actually flows
…that’s exactly where I come in.
Most of the couples I work with start right here — curious, excited, and a little overwhelmed — and we figure the rest out together.
✨ If you’re dreaming up a Colorado elopement and want guidance that feels personal and supportive, I’d love to talk.
Click below to schedule a free elopement consultation call, where we can explore your vision, answer your questions, and see if we’re a good fit.
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