Why elope in Gateway

If you’re wanting Moab without the crowds and a more almost all-inclusive resort option, then Gateway might be for you. If you haven’t heard of Gateway, that’s probably because there isn’t much in the town. Instead, it’s mostly made up of a TON of open land, and one single resort (and a few Airbnbs). Otherwise, the nearest large town is an hour away. If you’re looking to really get away from it all, Gateway is definitely for you!

How to obtain a marriage license in Mesa county

Both applicants need to appear in order to obtain the license. (If just one appears, another form will need to be completed.)

• Arrive prior to 4:30 p.m. (Marriage/Civil union licenses will not be issued after 4:30 p.m.).

• License is valid for 35 days from date of issuance.

• License is only valid for use within the state of Colorado.

• $30.00 Cash Only license fee; other fees may apply.

• Parent or Legal Guardian information is required regardless of the age of the applicants.

• Death or divorce information required (if applicable).

• Must be 18 years of age.

• Must have valid proof of identification.

  As of 2022, you need to fill out your marriage license application online, copy the code it gives you (no worries if you don’t get one after submitting, they can look you up be name), and present it to them when you arrive.

Weather in Gateway

The weather in Gateway is beautiful year-round but definitely best in March, April, and May during the spring, and again in October, November, and December. I would highly recommend not getting married in June, July, August, or September as the temperature usually reaches over 100 degrees and there is little to no shade in most locations. January + February are also okay months to elope in Gateway although weather can be a bit trickier with winter rain and snow, especially if your photographer, videographer, or other vendors are coming from Grand Junction.

Best months to elope in Gateway

March - There is usually just a dusting of snow left in March but you usually get much warmer days in the 40’s and 50’s

April and May - Snow is usually melted off and days are much warmer in the 60’s to 80’s

October - Summer temperatures begin cooling off while days are still pretty warm, and leave begin changing

November - Days begin cooling off with cooler nights

December - Surprisingly warm for December and usually there isn’t much snow yet

Flying into Gateway

The closest airport to Gateway is going to be Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT) which is located just north out of town, about an hour from Gateway. Another option is Montrose (MJT) which is 90 miles from Gateway and typically has cheaper flights. If coming from Denver International Airport (DIA) the drive is 300 miles and takes about 5 hours when there is no traffic. Keep in mind that traffic coming from DIA through the front range and into the mountains is some of the worst, especially leaving Denver on Friday and Saturday, as well as return trips on Sunday.

Price point

Gateway is surprisingly affordable even though the only options for things to do are either free (hiking, exploring nearby land, etc) or all facilitated and done through Gateway Canyons Resort, the local resort. While the overnight stay price of the resort is expensive, it includes access to the grounds as well as (sometimes) access to private property throughout Gateway and Unaweep Canyon. There are also restaurants and spas located on site that have very average prices for meals.

Activities to do in Gateway

• Take a day trip to the Helicopter tours

• Go horseback riding

• Rent a Jeep or side by side and explore the trails

• Take a tour of the antique automobile museum

• Spend the day next to the pool

• Go mountain biking

• Enjoy a private catered dinner at Gateway Canyons Resort

• Do a shooting sports organized by GCR

• Head to Palisade and take a wine country tours

• Spend a couple hours at the spa

• Enjoy walking access to local hiking trails

• Take a day trip to Grand Junction

• Take a day trip to Telluride

• For more information on Gateway, check out this blog post

Best places to stay in Gateway

• Thimble Rock Pointe, an a frame in Unaweep Canyon outside of Gateway

• Gateway Canyons Resort, a beautiful resort with restaurants and more in Gateway