Everything you need to know to plan a magical mountain elopement in Crested Butte, Colorado

Crested Butte is one of Colorado’s most breathtaking elopement destinations — a scenic mountain town framed by peaks, wildflower meadows, alpine lakes, and endless adventure. Whether you’re picturing a sunrise ceremony above the tree line or an intimate moment beside a wildflower-filled meadow, this guide will help you plan the perfect Crested Butte elopement from start to finish.

Planning a Crested Butte elopement and want everything in one place?

I created a free Crested Butte Elopement Planning Guide that includes location photos, seasonal tips, permit info, timelines, and local recommendations — perfect if you’re in the early planning stages.
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Getting Your Marriage License in Colorado

One of the first things couples planning a Crested Butte elopement need to know is the legal side:

• Marriage licenses in Colorado cost about $30 and there’s no waiting period — you can use it the same day you pick it up.
• You can obtain your license from any county clerk in Colorado and it’s valid anywhere in the state.
• A license must be used within 35 days of issuance.

The closest place to get your license when eloping near Crested Butte is the Gunnison County Clerk & Recorder’s Office in Gunnison (about ~20 miles away). Make sure to give them a call ahead of time to schedule an appointment for a smoother experience.

Colorado also allows self-solemnization — meaning you can officiate your own ceremony without an officiant or witnesses if you choose.

Crested Butte Permits for Elopement & Photography

Before choosing a ceremony location, research whether a special use permit or photography permit is needed:

• Many outdoor ceremony locations like national forest sites or creek trust lands require permits or reservations — especially for large groups or formal setups.
• Simple ceremonies with just a couple and photographers usually don’t require special permits, but always double-check with land managers, especially in protected areas or wilderness zones.
• For professional photography and videography crews (especially larger ones), you might need a film or photography permit through the Gunnison County permitting office.

Working with a local photographer or planner can help you navigate subtle permit requirements for your exact location. To ease your mind, if you’re planning a simple elopement with private vows or even a small ceremony with your closest friends and family, you most likely will NOT need a permit if you don’t set up any decor, chairs, or bring anything that disturbs the environment.

Best Crested Butte Elopement Locations

Crested Butte and the surrounding mountains are full of epic ceremony spots. Here are some favorites for couples wanting unforgettable scenery:

🏔️ Easily Accessible Scenic Backdrop Mountaintops & Wildflowers

• Snodgrass Mountain Trail — Widely known for its wildflowers in summer and panoramic views — beautiful for a sunrise elopement.
• CB Upper & Lower Loop — Provides sweeping mountain vistas and open alpine terrain.

🌲 Lakes & Meadows

• Emerald Lake — A popular, accessible alpine lake with dramatic peaks reflected in the water (requires some off-road drive or hike).
• Wildflower meadows near Gothic Road or Kebler Pass — gorgeous during summer blooms.

⛰️ Rugged Backcountry Views

• Paradise Divide and Rustler’s Gulch — Off-the-beaten-path ceremony sites with rugged alpine vibes, ideal for adventurous couples.
• Scarp Ridge — Perfect for couples who want a dramatic skyline and unforgettable views.

💡 Pro tip: Some places involve 4WD or hiking access — check trail conditions and travel plans ahead of time.

Want to have all this info handy in one place?

Grab the FREE Crested Butte Elopement Guide to refer back to when planning your elopement.

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Local Crested Butte Hair & Makeup Artists

Even elopements often include getting ready photos, and Crested Butte has some talented artists:

In & Around Crested Butte

• Natalie Duke Beauty – local makeup artist right in town.
• Crested Butte Beauty Bar – boutique beauty services for bridal looks.
• Industry Hair Studio – highly-rated hair styling.
• New Moon Salon & Gabriella Garcia Beauty – local salons for hair services.

Nearby / Destination Artists

For destination services or larger bridal party needs, you might also consider traveling pros like Raquel Chacon Beauty or Airbrush Makeup Tanning & Hair by Heather (who serve wider Colorado areas).

Florists & Ceremony Flowers

Floral details bring your ceremony style to life. Here are excellent options near Crested Butte:

• Misty Mountain Floral – local florist with rustic mountain bouquets.
• Misty Mountain Too – another great pick from the same team.
• Bramble and Bloom Floral – high-rated local floral designer.
• West Elk Floral Company & FIN + ALLY – unique floral design options.

For larger installations or bouquet + installation teams, local wedding planners often coordinate preferred floral partners.

Restaurants & Group Dinner Spots

Hosting a casual dinner or celebration? Crested Butte has a variety of great dining options:

🍷 Upscale & Sit-Down Dinner

• Two Twelve – elevated live-fire cuisine on Elk Avenue with a mountain vibe and creative plates.
• Soupçon – classic French-inspired fine dining.
• Elk Ave Prime – quality steakhouse and dinner option.

🍕 Casual & Group Friendly

• Secret Stash Pizza – beloved pizza spot for friends & family.
• Bonez – lively tacos & drinks on Elk Ave.
• Public House – gastropub with craft beers and hearty fare.
• Ryce Asian Bistro – modern Asian fare.
• Yukihana – sushi & Japanese dinner, great for date night or celebration meal.

For casual brunch/breakfast, spots like Butte Bagels and McGill’s are local favorites.

Wrap Up: Planning Your Crested Butte Elopement

Eloping in Crested Butte is about balancing mountain adventure with intimate celebration. From obtaining a Colorado marriage license to choosing a scenic location, booking talented vendors, securing cozy lodging, and hosting a dinner with friends and family — this destination delivers unforgettable moments.

👉 Start your planning by locking in your ceremony date and location first. Then secure your marriage license and connect with local vendors who know the area. With a bit of preparation and creativity, your Crested Butte elopement will be a breathtaking experience you’ll remember forever.

Need help planning your Crested Butte Elopement?

Do you still need help on how to plan your Crested Butte Elopement? I gotchu! Reach out to me anytime for a free consultation call. There’s absolutely no pressure to have anything planned or organized before our call – and no pressure to make any decisions at the end of it. I know all the ins and outs of getting married in Crested Butte and can help you step by step through the whole process. Finding someone who is local to the area you want to get married in is crucial to getting the process started, especially if you have no idea where to start.

Also be sure to snag this FREE Crested Butte Elopement Guide – Click Here