How to Get Married in Telluride, Colorado
Why elope in Telluride
If you’re looking for the epic quintessential Colorado mountain backdrop then the San Juans are definitely your best bet. Unlike the front range, the San Juans are a 7 hour drive from Denver and DIA making them a bit further out of reach for crowds and tourists. If you’re looking to see some seriously jagged peaks and really settle into life in a Colorado mountain town Telluride might be for you. Unlike Ouray, Telluride is a bit more accessible and has a lot more to do that doesn’t need 4WD or require you to go over steep mountain passes.
How to get a marriage license in San Miguel County
You may apply for the license at the Clerk & Recorder’s Office Monday - Thursday, during the hours of 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. License Fee is $30, payable by cash or checks only. Certified copies are $3 each. You will need to fill out an application and both be present with ID’s to sign for the license. For more information, check out the San Miguel County Clerk and Recorder Office.
Telluride Weather
The weather in Telluride is beautiful year-round and you can’t go wrong with any season for a wedding in Telluride. While mud season closes a lot of lodging, restaurants, and shops in early May and late October, most other times of year are great to elope in Telluride. If you’re open to snowshoeing or snowmobiling, winter can be a great time to get away from the crowds. Hiking locations however are harder to get to in the winter!
best months to elope in Telluride
February, March, April - Snowier season but more expensive because of ski season
June, July, August - Summer months as roads open up, hills turn green and wildflowers bloom. Keep in mind that summer is monsoon season in the mountains and you’ll want to have a morning centric elopement to avoid summer rainstorms
September - while much busier when the aspens change in late September, still a beautiful month as leaves start changing even in the high country
October - a very underrated month as a lot of trees die off and places close but accessibility can still be an option to some places with far fewer crowds
Flying & Driving into Telluride
Flying: The closest airport to Telluride is Telluride Regional (TEX). Another option is Montrose (MJT) which is 30 miles East (has a Southwest terminal), or Grand Junction (GJT) about 2 1/2 hours north. Durango/La Plata (DRO) is another option from the south.
Driving: If driving from Denver and the front range, you can take route 50 through Gunnison, or you can take I-70 over through Grand Junction and then south. Either way, you’re to see SO much of Colorado and all of the beautiful diverse scenery it offers. You can even make it a loop!
Price Point
Telluride is one of the most expensive mountain towns since it has a ski resort and most of the area is new builds. Hotel rooms typically run $400 a night. For cheaper lodging options, look into Placerville (15 minute drive) and Ridgway (40 minute drive).
Activities to Do in Telluride
Hike the 3 waterfall trail to Bridal Veil Falls
Go paddle boarding on Trout Lake
Hike to Hope Lake
Drive Ophir Pass
Camp at Town Park in downtown Telluride
Enjoy the six course prefix menu at The Tunnel
Take the free mountain village Gondola
Ski or snowboard at Telluride Ski Resort
Take a snowmobile tour to Alta Ghost Town
Go paragliding with Telluride Paragliding
Dine at the highest restaurant in America (in the winter only) at Alpino Vino
Take a hot air balloon ride with the San Juan Hot Hair Balloon Adventure
Ride the 19 mile mountain bike trail the Galloping Goose
Go river rafting with a guide from Telluride Outside
Take a chuckwagon grill out or sleigh ride with Telluride Wranglers
Climb the Telluride Via Ferrata
Go ice skating at one of the three ice rinks
Take an overnight day trip to Dunton Hot Springs
Take a day trip to Ouray
Intimate Wedding Venues in Telluride
San Sophia Overlook an outdoor space with easily accessible mountain views in Telluride, Colorado
Mountain Lodge an indoor/outdoor space at Telluride in Telluride, Colorado
Gorrono Ranch an indoor/outdoor space in Telluride, Colorado
Silver Jack Deck an open air deck at Ah Haa School for the Arts with mountain views in Telluride, Colorado
Alta Lakes Observatory an indoor/outdoor space with private alpine lakes in Telluride, Colorado
The Peaks Resort and Spa an indoor/outdoor space in Telluride, Colorado
Matterhorn Cabin a forest service cabin outside of Telluride, Colorado
Lower Golden Ledge a scenic mountain side outside of Telluride, Colorado
The Liberty an indoor event space in Telluride, Colorado
Sheridan Opera House an indoor event space in downtown Telluride, Colorado
New Sheridan an indoor space in downtown Telluride, Colorado
Dunton Hot Springs an indoor/outdoor space with private hot springs in Dunton, Colorado
Upper Schmid Ranch a locally owned ranch outside of Telluride, Colorado
Telluride Elopement Timeline Example
6:00 am
Rise and shine in your cozy Telluride cabin or lodge! Get ready for an epic day together! Enjoy a leisurely morning, fueling up with a hearty breakfast to prepare for your adventures ahead!
7:00 am
Time to soar! Hop on the scenic gondola ride up to Mountain Village! Marvel at the jaw-dropping views of the mountains and valleys as you ascend! It's the perfect start to your unforgettable day!
8:00 am
Welcome to Bridal Veil Falls, one of Colorado's tallest free-falling waterfalls! Exchange your heartfelt vows with this majestic backdrop! Afterwards, explore the area hand in hand, taking in the beauty around you!
9:00 am
Head over to Trout Lake, a serene spot just a short drive from Telluride! Take a leisurely stroll along the shore together! For a bit more adventure, consider renting a kayak or paddleboard and explore the lake's crystal-clear waters!
11:00 am
Lace up your hiking boots! It's time to conquer Hope Lake! Embark on a scenic hike through the San Juan Mountains! Enjoy a picnic lunch at the lake's edge, surrounded by stunning alpine vistas! What a perfect way to refuel and relax together!
3:00 pm
Return to Telluride and take a breather! Freshen up and indulge in a couple's massage! Or take a leisurely stroll through town, exploring the charming shops and galleries! Grab a coffee or snack to recharge for your evening adventures!
5:00 pm
Chase the sunset! Drive to a scenic viewpoint to watch the sky light up with vibrant colors! It's the perfect backdrop for unforgettable photos and a moment to soak in the magic of the day together! What a way to capture the love and adventure of your elopement!
7:00 pm
Dinner time! Choose from Telluride's cozy restaurants for a romantic dinner! Toast to your new life together over delicious food and good company! Celebrate the day's adventures and all the memories made in this breathtaking mountain town!
9:00 pm
Wrap up your amazing day with a leisurely evening stroll through Telluride! Reflect on your day together, savoring the memories you've created! Hold hands and enjoy the peaceful ambiance under the starlit sky, knowing this day will be cherished forever!
Where to get married
in Telluride,
Colorado
Last Dollar Road
Last Dollar Road is a hidden gem for couples who want to elope in a setting that’s as rugged and romantic as Colorado gets. Winding through the San Juan Mountains, this scenic backroad between Telluride and Ridgway offers jaw-dropping views, vibrant wildflower meadows, and a sense of wild adventure that’s perfect for an intimate, off-the-beaten-path elopement.
Location Features:
Best Time of Day for Lighting and Privacy: The best time to experience Last Dollar Road is during the golden hour—early morning or late afternoon. The soft light during these times bathes the mountains and meadows in a warm glow, creating perfect lighting for your photos. Plus, you’re more likely to have this stunning location all to yourselves!
Getting There: In the summer and fall, Last Dollar Road is a scenic and adventurous drive that’s best tackled with a high-clearance 4WD vehicle. The road can be rough and rocky in spots, but the breathtaking views make it well worth the journey. Keep in mind that the road is impassable in winter and early spring due to snow.
Seasonal Changes: Last Dollar Road offers something unique in every season. In the summer, the meadows are bursting with wildflowers, adding vibrant color to your wedding photos. Fall is equally stunning, with the golden hues of aspen trees lining the road. Whether you’re surrounded by summer’s lush greenery or fall’s fiery colors, the views along this road are always spectacular.
Last Dollar Road is ideal for couples seeking a wild, adventurous, and intimate setting for their elopement. With its stunning mountain views and ever-changing scenery, this road will make your special day feel like a true Colorado adventure!
Bridal Veil Falls
Bridal Veil Falls is a dream come true for couples looking to elope in one of Colorado's most iconic and awe-inspiring locations. As the state’s tallest free-falling waterfall, this spot near Telluride offers a magical backdrop that’s perfect for adventure-loving couples who want to make their big day truly unforgettable.
Location Features:
Best Time of Day for Lighting and Privacy: For the best lighting and fewer crowds, plan your ceremony early in the morning or late in the afternoon. The soft, golden light at these times adds a magical glow to your photos, while the quieter hours allow you to soak in the beauty of the falls without interruption.
How to Be Best Prepared: Bridal Veil Falls’ rugged beauty comes with a bit of adventure! Make sure to bring sturdy hiking boots with good grip for the rocky terrain, as well as umbrellas and rain jackets—you will 10000% get wet.
Getting There: In the summer, the road to the falls is an easy but rocky 4WD drive, adding an extra layer of adventure to your elopement. The drive itself offers stunning views, setting the stage for what’s to come when you arrive at the falls.
Seasonal Changes: The falls are a spectacle in any season, but they do change with the times. In spring, snowmelt swells the falls, creating a powerful, roaring cascade that’s truly awe-inspiring. By late summer and fall, the flow decreases, revealing more of the rugged cliffside.
Bridal Veil Falls is perfect for couples that want that magical misty PNW feel. With the right planning and gear, you’ll capture unforgettable memories against one of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the state!
Gold King Basin
Gold King Basin is a hidden paradise in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, perfect for couples who want to elope in a secluded, awe-inspiring location. Nestled near Telluride, this high-altitude basin offers expansive views, vibrant wildflowers, and a tranquil atmosphere that’s ideal for a private, intimate ceremony surrounded by nature’s grandeur.
Location Features:
Best Time of Day for Lighting and Privacy: To capture Gold King Basin at its most magical, plan your ceremony in the early morning or late afternoon. The soft, golden light during these times enhances the basin's beauty, casting a warm glow over the mountains and wildflower meadows. These quieter hours also give you the best chance to enjoy the basin in peaceful solitude.
How to Be Best Prepared: The remote location of Gold King Basin means you’ll need to be prepared for mountain weather and rugged terrain. Bring sturdy hiking boots with good grip, layers to stay warm, and rain jackets or umbrellas—Colorado’s weather can be unpredictable, but with the right gear, you’ll be ready for anything!
Getting There: Gold King Basin is accessible via a rough, rocky 4WD road in the summer and early fall. The drive is an adventure in itself, taking you through some of Colorado’s most stunning scenery. Be sure your vehicle is up to the task, and enjoy the journey to this remote and beautiful spot. The road is closed in winter, so plan accordingly.
Gold King Basin is the perfect choice for couples who want a secluded, nature-filled elopement in one of Colorado’s most beautiful and remote settings. With its stunning vistas and ever-changing landscape, your special day here will be an unforgettable adventure!
Alta Lakes
Alta Lakes is a serene alpine hideaway near Telluride, Colorado, perfect for couples seeking a peaceful yet adventurous elopement spot. With its crystal-clear lakes, towering peaks, and rustic charm, this location offers a breathtaking backdrop for your special day.
Location Features:
Best Time of Day for Lighting and Privacy: The magic of Alta Lakes is best experienced during the early morning or late afternoon, when the light casts a golden glow over the lakes and surrounding mountains. These times also provide the best chance for a more private experience, although you may still encounter others enjoying the area, especially on weekends.
How to Be Best Prepared: Alta Lakes is an alpine environment, so come prepared! Sturdy hiking boots with good grip are essential for navigating the rocky terrain, and layers will keep you warm in the cool mountain air. Rain jackets and umbrellas are also smart to have on hand, as mountain weather can be unpredictable.
Getting There: The road to Alta Lakes is a rocky 4WD route, adding an element of adventure to your journey. The drive, best navigated in the summer and early fall, takes you through some of Colorado’s most stunning scenery before arriving at this beautiful, high-altitude destination.
Dispersed Camping Area: Alta Lakes is a popular dispersed camping area, so expect to see other campers, especially on weekends. There are fire pits and plenty of spots to pitch a tent, making it a great location if you want to turn your elopement into a weekend camping adventure. Just be aware that you won’t have the place entirely to yourselves.
Alta Lakes Observatory: For couples looking for a more private and luxurious experience, consider renting the Alta Lakes Observatory. This high-end option provides access to a private lake just above Alta Lakes, offering a secluded and exclusive setting for your ceremony, though it comes with a hefty price tag.
Alta Lakes is an ideal spot for couples who want to combine their elopement with a bit of outdoor adventure. Whether you're camping under the stars or splurging on the observatory, the stunning natural beauty of Alta Lakes will make your special day truly unforgettable.
san Sophia Gondola
San Sophia Gondola in Telluride, Colorado, offers an unforgettable elopement experience with breathtaking high-altitude views. Combining adventure and luxury, it’s perfect for couples looking for a memorable ceremony.
Location Features:
Best Time of Day for Lighting and Privacy: Early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting with a golden glow over the mountains and fewer crowds for a more intimate experience.
How to Be Best Prepared: Dress warmly for the cool mountain air, wear comfortable shoes for walking, and bring rain jackets or umbrellas for unpredictable weather.
Getting There: The gondola is accessible from both Mountain Village and the town of Telluride. It’s free, and dogs are allowed! Note that it closes for maintenance during shoulder seasons (spring and fall) for a few weeks, so be sure to check the schedule in advance.
San Sophia Gondola is ideal for couples seeking a stunning, high-altitude elopement with convenient access, gorgeous views, and a dog-friendly atmosphere.
San Sophia Overlook
San Sophia Overlook is the ultimate elopement spot for couples who want to say "I do" with Telluride's breathtaking beauty as their backdrop. Perched high above the town, this stunning location offers panoramic views that are nothing short of jaw-dropping, making it a perfect blend of luxury and adventure.
Location Features:
Epic Panoramic Views: At San Sophia Overlook, you’ll be surrounded by sweeping vistas of the San Juan Mountains and the charming town of Telluride below. This spot has all the “wow” factor you could want, making your ceremony feel like it’s happening on top of the world.
Golden Hour Bliss: This overlook is pure magic during golden hour, when the sun dips low and bathes the mountains in warm, glowing light—ideal for those dreamy, romantic photos that’ll take your breath away.
Exclusive and Accessible: Despite its lofty perch, San Sophia Overlook is easily accessible by gondola, combining that high-altitude, secluded vibe with convenience. You can enjoy a private, intimate ceremony without sacrificing ease of access.
Year-Round Beauty: Whether it’s the lush greens of summer, the fiery colors of fall, or the snow-dusted peaks of winter, this location shines in every season, offering endless possibilities for gorgeous, one-of-a-kind wedding photos.
San Sophia Overlook is perfect for adventurous couples looking to elevate their elopement—literally and figuratively! With its unbeatable views and serene atmosphere, your special day here will be nothing short of unforgettable, capturing the true essence of Colorado’s wild beauty.
Trout Lake
Trout Lake is an absolute dream for couples who want to elope in a serene, magical setting. Nestled in the San Juan Mountains near Telluride, this hidden gem offers a peaceful and picture-perfect location that feels like a scene from a postcard. If you’re into alpine lakes with a touch of mountain magic, this is your spot!
Location Features:
Crystal-Clear Lake Views: The calm, glassy waters of Trout Lake reflect the surrounding peaks and trees, creating a mesmerizing mirror effect that makes your photos look straight-up magical!
Mountain Backdrop: With towering mountains all around, your ceremony or photoshoot will have that iconic Colorado look—wild, rugged, and absolutely breathtaking.
Seasonal Charm: Whether it’s summer with lush greenery and wildflowers or fall with the golden hues of aspen trees, Trout Lake is stunning in every season and offers something unique year-round.
Peaceful and Private: Tucked away from the hustle, this spot offers a quiet, intimate setting where you can focus on each other and soak in the beauty of your surroundings.
Trout Lake is perfect for couples looking for a peaceful, romantic location that combines the beauty of alpine lakes with the drama of Colorado’s majestic mountains. Your elopement day here will feel like something out of a fairy tale.
lizard Head Pass
Lizard Head Pass is an epic, off-the-beaten-path gem in the heart of Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, offering a jaw-dropping backdrop for adventurous couples who want to tie the knot surrounded by nature's raw beauty. If you're dreaming of a secluded spot that screams “Colorado wild,” this is it!
Location Features:
Stunning Mountain Vistas: Get ready for some serious wow-factor with panoramic views of the rugged peaks, including the iconic Lizard Head Peak—an epic spire that’ll make your photos look like something out of an adventure magazine!
Vibrant Wildflower Meadows: If you’re eloping in the summer, you’ll be treated to fields bursting with wildflowers, creating a colorful, romantic setting that’ll make your hearts sing.
Peaceful Seclusion: Lizard Head Pass is as quiet and serene as it gets, making it the perfect spot for couples who want to escape the crowds and enjoy an intimate, private ceremony in the great outdoors.
Year-Round Beauty: Whether you’re surrounded by snow-capped peaks in the winter or lush greenery in the summer, this spot is a year-round stunner that never disappoints.
Lizard Head Pass is a dreamy location for adventurous souls looking to say “I do” in a place that truly captures the wild, untamed spirit of Colorado. Get ready for some unforgettable memories and photos that’ll leave everyone in awe!
Ophir Pass + Other 4WD Roads
Ophir Pass offers a rugged and scenic backdrop for couples seeking a high-altitude elopement with stunning mountain views and a sense of adventure. Located near Telluride, Colorado, this off-road pass provides a dramatic setting for your special day.
Location Features:
Getting There: Access to Ophir Pass requires a 4WD vehicle AND experience on the west side due to the rough, unpaved road. The pass is best navigated in summer and early fall. Check road conditions before as the pass can be challenging and is often closed in winter.
Additional Details: Ophir Pass is a popular spot for those seeking adventure, so expect to see other off-road enthusiasts. Be prepared for a remote and rugged environment that offers spectacular views and a true Colorado backcountry experience.
Ophir Pass is perfect for couples looking for a dramatic, high-altitude elopement with incredible scenery and a sense of adventure.
The bendy Aspen Trees
These whimsical trees add a unique and picturesque touch to the rugged landscape, making it an exceptional spot for something unique.
Location Features:
Best Time of Day for Lighting and Privacy: Any time of day is good as the trees filter out a lot of the harsh light, but be prepared for other people to swing by!
How to Be Best Prepared: It is a small walk to the aspen trees so while good sturdy hiking boots are a great option, they are not required.
Getting There: This location is accessible via an easy 4WD road but you won’t need high clearance or any off-roading skill.
Crystal Lake
Crystal Lake at the top of Ophir Pass offers a stunning high-altitude elopement location with dramatic views and a serene alpine lake. This hidden gem is ideal for couples seeking a breathtaking and adventurous setting.
Location Features:
Best Time of Day for Lighting and Privacy: Early morning sunrise provides the best light for capturing the lake’s tranquil waters and surrounding peaks while eliminating the chance of thunderstorms. The soft, golden glow during these times enhances the natural beauty and offers a more private experience with fewer visitors.
How to Be Best Prepared: The hike to Crystal Lake involves a steep ascent up shale, but it's relatively quick and manageable for those with moderate hiking experience. Wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip, dress in layers for changing temperatures. Keep an eye on weather and avoid the hike if there are any dark clouds or chances of storms.
Getting There: Access to Crystal Lake requires a 4WD vehicle to navigate the rough, unpaved road up Ophir Pass. The trailhead starts from the top of the pass, and while the hike is steep, it is short and rewarding. Always check road and trail conditions before your trip.
Additional Details: The steep hike up shale may be challenging for some, but the spectacular views of Crystal Lake and the surrounding peaks make the effort worthwhile. The lake’s serene setting and the unique landscape of Ophir Pass create a memorable backdrop for your elopement.
Crystal Lake at the top of Ophir Pass is perfect for couples seeking an adventurous elopement with stunning alpine scenery and a sense of accomplishment.
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