How to Get Married in
Boulder, Colorado
Looking for an elopement that feels adventurous, but without going totally off-grid?
Boulder is perfect for couples who want a mix of mountain scenery and city comforts. Think: saying your vows at a scenic overlook just minutes from downtown, followed by celebratory drinks at a local brewery and dinner on a cozy patio. It’s the kind of place where you can spend the morning exploring a trail, and the evening wrapped in city lights - no 4x4 or high-altitude hikes required.
Whether you're dreaming of an intimate moment with the Flatirons as your backdrop or want a guest-friendly celebration with good food and even better views, Boulder strikes that sweet spot between nature and convenience.
Great for couples who:
• Want beautiful views without venturing too far from town
• Prefer easy-access spots over long hikes or remote trails
• Love craft breweries, good food, and laid-back vibes
• Are planning an elopement that might include a few guests
Why Elope in Boulder?
Boulder offers a perfect mix of mountain scenery and city amenities. You get jaw-dropping landscapes just a few minutes outside of downtown, no 4x4 required. The town itself is full of personality—think local coffee shops, street performers, and some of Colorado’s best breweries. It’s ideal for couples who want a little bit of everything: easy logistics, outdoor beauty, and good food to celebrate with afterward.
As a Boulder wedding photographer, I love how accessible and relaxed Boulder feels. You don’t have to go far to find a beautiful place to say your vows, and you’ll have plenty of options whether you’re eloping with just the two of you or inviting a small group of your closest people.
Where to Elope in Boulder
Chautauqua Park One of the most iconic locations in Boulder. The Flatirons make an unbeatable ceremony backdrop, and the trails are accessible year-round. Great for sunrise or golden hour vows.
Lost Gulch Overlook A favorite for sunset elopements. It’s a short drive up Flagstaff Mountain and offers expansive views of the Rockies. Permits are required, and it can get crowded—weekdays or off-hours are best.
Sunshine Canyon Tucked into the foothills just minutes from town, Sunshine Canyon has forested trails and quiet spots for more intimate vows. This is a great place for couples looking for privacy without a long hike.
Boulder Falls An easy-access waterfall location, perfect if you want nature vibes without breaking a sweat. It’s a popular spot, so early morning ceremonies are recommended.
Flagstaff Mountain Multiple scenic overlooks, including Realization Point and Panorama Point, make this a versatile choice. You can even reserve sites like Halfway House or Sunrise Amphitheater for a more structured (but still intimate) event.
OSMP Permits and Elopement Rules
Most of the outdoor locations around Boulder fall under the City of Boulder’s Open Space and Mountain Parks (OSMP) land. You’ll need a Basic Photography Permit to have your ceremony or portraits taken on OSMP property if you’re working with a professional Boulder elopement photographer.
If you’re having a larger gathering or want to reserve a specific location like the Sunrise Amphitheater, you’ll need to apply through Boulder’s Parks and Recreation or OSMP reservation systems. These locations often book up months in advance, especially in peak seasons like summer and fall.
Dogs are allowed on most OSMP trails and ceremony locations as long as they are under Voice and Sight Control or leashed where required. If including your pup in your elopement is important, Boulder is a very pet-friendly place to do it.
Weather in Boulder
Boulder has four distinct seasons, and each brings its own vibe to an elopement day:
Spring: Wildflowers start blooming, especially in April and May. Weather can be unpredictable, but beautiful when the sun’s out.
Summer: Warm and sunny with long daylight hours. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, so early or late-day ceremonies are best.
Fall: The foilage around Boulder turn in late September and early October. Crisp air and gorgeous foliage make it a top pick.
Winter: Snowy landscapes, fewer crowds, and a quiet, serene atmosphere. Great if you love a cozy winter wedding vibe. Prime time for cloud inversions.
Travel and Accessibility
Boulder is about a 45-minute drive from Denver International Airport, making it super easy to get to without feeling too remote. No 4x4 vehicle is required to reach the most scenic locations - many are accessible via paved roads, and trailheads are close to town.
Whether you're coming from out of state or planning a mini road trip within Colorado, Boulder is one of the most convenient destinations for an elopement.
Average Elopement Costs in Boulder
One of the best things about a Boulder elopement is that you can keep it affordable or go all-out—it’s totally up to you.
Lodging: $150 to $400+ per night (hotels, boutique inns, Airbnbs)
Dining: $15 to $40 per person at casual or upscale restaurants
Permits and Reservations: $0 to $100+ depending on your location
Photographer: $1,500 to $6,000+ depending on coverage and experience
As a Boulder wedding and elopement photographer, I always help couples navigate permits and timelines to make the most of their day and budget.
Small Wedding Venues in Boulder
If you're planning an intimate wedding with a few guests and want a bit more structure, Boulder has some lovely venues to choose from:
The St. Julien Hotel & Spa: A luxurious option with mountain views and walkability to downtown.
Rembrandt Yard: An art gallery turned event space - modern, stylish, and close to Pearl Street.
Chautauqua Dining Hall: A charming venue at the base of the Flatirons. Great for groups that want easy access to trails and beautiful views.
Private Airbnbs or Rentals: There are plenty of stylish and secluded stays that allow events and give you more privacy for celebrating afterward.
Final Thoughts
Eloping in Boulder gives you the freedom to choose your own adventure: whether that’s saying your vows on a mountaintop, sipping beers on Pearl Street, or hiking hand-in-hand through pine-lined trails. As a Boulder elopement photographer, I love helping couples discover just how magical and stress-free a day like this can be.
If you’re considering a Boulder elopement or small wedding and want someone who knows the area, the light, and all the little in-between moments worth capturing - I’d love to chat.
Whether you've pictured your wedding since you were young or, like me, the thought never crossed your mind until "I do" was looming on the horizon, piecing it all together is one heck of an adventure -
That’s where I come in.
Howdy hello I’m Kimberly
Learn More about the experience of working with me
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