The San Juan Mountains of Colorado offer some of the most breathtaking and remote landscapes in the state, making them the perfect backdrop for an adventurous multi-day elopement. If you’re dreaming of an intimate wedding experience filled with exploration, stunning vistas, and unforgettable memories, a multi-day elopement in the San Juans is an incredible way to celebrate your love story.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to plan a seamless and awe-inspiring multi-day elopement adventure in this spectacular mountain range.

Why Choose a Multi-Day Elopement in the San Juan Mountains?

A traditional one-day elopement is wonderful, but a multi-day elopement allows you to truly immerse yourselves in nature, savor every moment, and create a stress-free experience without feeling rushed. Here are a few reasons why a multi-day elopement in the San Juans is a great idea:

• More time to explore different locations: From the charming town of Ouray to the wildflower-filled valleys near Silverton, the San Juans offer a variety of stunning settings.
• Sunrise and sunset opportunities: Capturing the golden light over the mountains at different times of day adds variety to your photos.
• Time for adventure activities: Whether it’s hiking, off-roading, soaking in hot springs, or taking a scenic gondola ride in Telluride, a multi-day elopement lets you incorporate your favorite outdoor activities.
• Less stress and more flexibility: With multiple days, you don’t have to cram everything into a few hours—you can enjoy each moment to the fullest.

Step 1: Choose the Best Season for Your Elopement

The San Juan Mountains experience distinct seasons, each offering a unique backdrop for your elopement. Here’s what to consider:

• Summer (July – September): Best for accessibility, wildflowers, and clear mountain roads.
• Fall (Late September – Early October): Ideal for golden aspen groves and crisp mountain air.
• Winter (November – April): Perfect for a cozy, snow-filled elopement, but many high-elevation areas may be inaccessible.
• Spring (May – June): Can be unpredictable with lingering snow at higher elevations but offers lush greenery at lower elevations.

Step 2: Pick Your Basecamp Town

The San Juans are home to several picturesque mountain towns, each offering a unique vibe and convenient access to scenic locations:

• Telluride: A charming, upscale town with jaw-dropping mountain scenery, an iconic gondola, and access to stunning trails.
• Ouray: Known as the "Switzerland of America," Ouray offers hot springs, dramatic peaks, and off-roading adventures.
• Silverton: A historic mining town surrounded by rugged terrain, perfect for couples who want a more remote and adventurous experience.
• Ridgway: A quieter town with stunning views of the Cimarron Mountains, great for those seeking a peaceful escape.

Step 3: Plan Your Multi-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Arrive at your chosen basecamp town and settle into your accommodations.

• Explore local attractions, such as the Telluride gondola, Ouray’s Box Canyon Falls, or Silverton’s historic downtown.
• Enjoy a romantic dinner at a cozy mountain restaurant.

Day 2: Adventure and Vow Exchange

• Start your day with an epic sunrise hike to a stunning viewpoint like Blue Lakes, Ice Lakes, or Bridal Veil Falls.
• Exchange your vows in an intimate location surrounded by nature.
• Celebrate with a picnic or champagne toast overlooking the mountains.
• Spend the afternoon on an adventure, such as off-roading to Yankee Boy Basin or paddleboarding on Trout Lake.

Day 3: Relaxation and Celebration

• Sleep in and enjoy a slow morning with breakfast in bed or coffee at a scenic overlook.
• Visit the Ouray Hot Springs or Dunton Hot Springs for a relaxing soak.
• Have a second photo session at sunset to capture more magical moments.
• End the night with a campfire, stargazing, or a private chef-prepared dinner.

Step 4: Secure Permits and Legal Requirements

Many locations in the San Juan Mountains require special permits for weddings or photography. Here’s what you need to do:

• Check permit requirements for national forests, BLM land, and state parks where you plan to elope.
• Obtain a Colorado marriage license from any county clerk’s office in the state (no waiting period required).
• Choose an officiant or self-solemnize (Colorado allows couples to officiate their own wedding).

Step 5: Pack for the Adventure

A multi-day elopement in the mountains requires thoughtful packing. Here are some essentials:

• Wedding attire: Breathable fabrics for summer, layers for fall and winter.
• Hiking boots and adventure gear: Comfortable and sturdy footwear for exploring.
• Elopement details: Rings, vow books, bouquet, champagne, and a cozy blanket for scenic picnics.
• Emergency kit: First-aid supplies, extra layers, and snacks.
• Camera and photography gear: Hire an experienced elopement photographer who knows the area well.

Step 6: Hire the Right Vendors

Having the right team will make your elopement stress-free and magical. Consider hiring:

• An elopement photographer: Someone familiar with the San Juans who can guide you to epic locations (me!!!!)
• A videographer: Capture cinematic moments of your adventure.
• A hair and makeup artist: Someone experienced with outdoor elopements who can provide a natural, long-lasting look.
• A florist: Local florists can create stunning bouquets with wildflower-inspired designs.
• An adventure guide: If you plan on off-roading or hiking to remote locations, a local guide or jeeping company can ensure safety and ease.

Step 7: Plan for Changing Weather

Mountain weather is unpredictable, so be prepared for sudden changes:

• Have a backup plan in case of storms or unexpected closures.
• Dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.
• Embrace the adventure—rain, fog, or snow can create a magical and unique atmosphere.

Step 8: Capture the Moments

Your multi-day elopement will be filled with unforgettable experiences, so document it fully. Plan for:

• Multiple photo sessions (sunrise, sunset, different locations over two days).
• Candid and adventure-filled shots to tell the full story of your journey.
• A keepsake album to preserve the memories forever.

Conclusion

A multi-day elopement in the San Juan Mountains is the perfect way to create an intentional, adventure-filled celebration of your love. By spreading out your experience over several days, you get to truly enjoy each moment, immerse yourselves in nature, and embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Whether you’re hiking to a remote alpine lake, saying “I do” at a breathtaking overlook, or toasting under the stars, the San Juans provide an unparalleled setting for an unforgettable elopement.

Are you ready to start planning your dream elopement? Let’s connect—I’d love to help bring your vision to life and capture every magical moment along the way!