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Crested Butte Colorado Elopement Guide

July 28, 2024

Crested Butte, Elopements

If you’re here, that likely means you’re planning a Crested Butte elopement. If that’s the case, congratulations are in order! I’m so excited that you are here, and I can’t wait to give you all of the information you’ll need to plan the Crested Butte elopement of your dreams! First, let me introduce myself! I’m Amazing (yes, that’s my given birth name!) and I’m a Crested Butte elopement photographer. Because of my experience in capturing Crested Butte elopements, I want to give you all of the information you may need when planning your own, so let’s dive in!

Crested Butte Elopement Photographer

Amazing Colorado Photography

Where is Crested Butte?

Crested Butte is a beautiful town in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado! It’s best known for its terrain, skiing opportunities, and is also known as “the wildflower capital of Colorado”. Let me tell you, if you’re on the hunt for the best locations to elope in Colorado, Crested Butte should be at the top of your list!

Check out this map showing you where Crested Butte is, along with some places to stay (which we’ll talk more about later), ceremony sites, and great places to eat! Now let’s get into the top five reasons why you should elope in Crested Butte.

Five Reasons to Plan a Crested Butte Elopement

Wondering WHY you should elope in Crested Butte, Colorado? There are many reasons to elope here! From its stunning views, intimate settings, outdoor activities, how it’s affordable, and so much more! Let’s get into my top five reasons why you should consider Crested Butte as your elopement destination!

1.) Breathtaking Views

This may be an obvious answer, but you may want to elope in Crested Butte for the views that this Colorado town offers. With pristine lakes, lush forests, and majestic mountains, you’re sure to find some epic and beautiful backdrops for an intimate elopement. If you dream of exchanging vows to the love of your life with blooming wildflowers at every turn or with the backdrops of mountains, then Crested Butte is for you!

2.) An Intimate Setting

If you dream of an intimate elopement versus a more traditional wedding experience, then Crested Butte Colorado offers the perfect setting for a more private and secluded elopement experience!

3.) Outdoor Activities Galore!

Crested Butte isn’t just known for its beauty, but also known for it’s amazing outdoor activities such as skiing, mountain biking, hiking, kayaking, and more! Check out this “What to Do: Crested Butte Activities” page for more ideas!

4.) Eloping in Crested Butte Can be Affordable

Eloping in general can be a much more affordable option than hosting a traditional wedding. You can eliminate the stress, hassle, and logistics of planning a big wedding and truly focus on the experience and what you and your partner enjoy! Many times this really cuts down on your wedding costs.

5.) The Experience!

Overall, eloping in Crested Butte is going to offer plenty of unique experiences and memories to be made! This will be one of the most important days of your life, so make sure you go somewhere that you can see you and your partner truly enjoying!

14 Beautiful Crested Butte Elopement Locations

Here are 14 stunning elopement locations in Crested Butte, from iconic alpine lakes to hidden local favorites. Whether you want bold mountain views or quiet forest paths, this list has something for every kind of love story.

1.) Woods Walk

Woods Walk is one of the most accessible and charming elopement spots right near downtown Crested Butte. It’s a flat, easy trail that winds through aspen groves, open meadows, and offers beautiful views of Mt. Crested Butte in the distance. In summer, wildflowers line the path, and in fall, the golden aspens put on a full show. It feels quiet, romantic, and tucked away—without being far from town. If you’re looking for something peaceful, beautiful, and super easy to get to, Woods Walk is a total favorite.

2.) Peanut Lake

Just a short walk or bike ride from town, Peanut Lake is tiny but mighty. It’s peaceful, reflective, and has a beautiful view of Gothic Mountain in the distance. The trail around it is flat and easy, with wildflowers in summer and a soft, golden glow in the evenings. It’s a great option for a super relaxed ceremony and a stroll in the quiet.

3.) Lower Loop Trail

The Lower Loop is one of those “how is this not more popular?” kind of trails. It winds through aspens, across creeks, and opens up to incredible valley views—with very little effort required. It’s easy to reach from town, rarely crowded, and gives you that woodsy-meets-open-meadow feel that’s so perfect for elopements.

4.) Washington Gulch

Washington Gulch is one of those dreamy locations that gives you everything—alpine peaks in the distance, wide open valleys, wildflowers for days, and soft evening light that makes photos look straight out of a storybook. It’s an easy drive with plenty of quiet little nooks to step off the road and say your vows surrounded by nature. The best part? It’s beautiful in every season.

5.) Gothic Road

This is the iconic Crested Butte drive, and it’s not just scenic—it’s straight-up cinematic. Surrounded by towering peaks and vibrant meadows, Gothic Road feels like you’ve stepped into the heart of the Rockies. There are dozens of photo-worthy pull-offs, plus access to some great little trails if you want to hike a bit. In late summer, this area bursts with color thanks to Crested Butte’s famous wildflowers. Think lupines, paintbrush, sunflowers, and more—it’s basically a bouquet you can stand in.

6.) Brush Creek

This area is just outside town and has that wide-open, untouched feel. Think rolling hills, blooming wildflowers, and a backdrop that looks like it belongs on the cover of a Colorado calendar. There are no signs or crowds—just you, the breeze, and the mountains doing their thing. It’s ideal for a peaceful, private moment (with stunning photos, of course).

7.) Kebler Pass

If you’re eloping in the fall, this is the place. Kebler Pass is home to one of the largest aspen groves in the entire country, and when those golden leaves start glowing in September, it’s like walking through a living painting. The winding road offers dozens of tucked-away spots for a private ceremony, and the mountain views peek through at every turn. In summer, the meadows come alive with wildflowers, and in late fall it quiets down into peaceful, moody magic.

8.) Lake Irwin

Lake Irwin is one of those spots that just feels peaceful the second you arrive. Tucked high in the mountains and surrounded by dense pine forest and rugged peaks, it offers that perfect mix of serenity and drama. The lake itself is calm and reflective—especially in the early morning when the water turns glassy and still—and the light here is soft and glowy, even on bright days.

You don’t have to hike far (or at all) to find a beautiful place to say your vows, which makes it a great option if you want that “mountains-meet-water” vibe without trekking uphill in wedding clothes. There are plenty of little shoreline nooks and open spaces where you can set up a quiet, intimate ceremony with a mountain view that honestly looks fake—it’s that pretty.

Bonus: In the summer, the wildflowers around Lake Irwin are out of control in the best way. Like, it’s hard to take a bad photo here. And if you’re eloping in the fall, you’ll catch golden tones in the trees that reflect beautifully in the water. It’s easy, stunning, and has just enough adventure to make it feel special without going full backpacking trip.

9.) Emerald Lake + Paradise Divide

If you’re looking for a one-two punch of alpine magic, this combo is hard to beat. Emerald Lake is one of the most striking alpine lakes near Crested Butte—seriously, the water looks like it’s been photoshopped. Surrounded by jagged peaks, pine trees, and open sky, it feels remote, peaceful, and straight-up enchanting. The road in is a bit bumpy (you’ll want a high-clearance vehicle), but once you’re there, it’s all stillness and beauty—perfect for an intimate ceremony or those dreamy just-married portraits.

From there, you can keep the adventure going and head up to Paradise Divide, just a bit further along the same rugged road. It’s a high-alpine pass with panoramic views that’ll have you saying “are we even on Earth right now?” It’s ideal for couples craving that top-of-the-world, just-us kind of feeling, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light turns everything golden. Pairing these two spots together gives you both reflective lake serenity and epic mountaintop drama—all in one unforgettable elopement day.

10.) Snodgrass Mountain Trail

This trail is an absolute gem in the summer and fall. It winds through open meadows, dense groves of aspen, and offers wide-open views of Mt. Crested Butte that feel unreal. You don’t have to hike far to get to a gorgeous spot, and the golden hour light here? Chef’s kiss. It’s peaceful, colorful, and has that “we found our own secret spot” kind of feeling.

11.) Judd Falls Trail

If you’re up for a short and beautiful hike, Judd Falls is a total winner. It’s about a mile each way with moderate elevation, and the payoff is so worth it. You’ll get views of Mt. Crested Butte, a stunning little waterfall, and lots of quiet spots along the way that are perfect for a ceremony or portraits. It’s a great choice if you want that blend of alpine adventure and intimate

12.) Meridian Lake (Long Lake)

Just a short drive (or mellow hike) from town, Meridian Lake—often called Long Lake—is a local favorite for good reason. With sparkling water, mountain reflections, and colorful wildflowers in the summer, it’s an easy-to-access spot that still feels wild and romantic. It’s also one of the few lakes in the area where you can dip your toes—or jump in if you’re feeling bold. Perfect for a relaxed elopement with room to roam and views to swoon over.

13.) Copley Lake

Tucked away near Kebler Pass, Copley Lake is a quiet, less-traveled gem surrounded by wildflowers, meadows, and views of Ruby and Owen peaks. The hike in is short and scenic, following an old mining road through aspen groves and open hillsides. It’s the kind of place where you can hear the wind through the trees and feel like you’ve got the whole valley to yourselves—an ideal spot for couples wanting a more off-the-radar ceremony with total Colorado charm.

14.) Lily Lake

Tucked just off Kebler Pass, Lily Lake is a peaceful little alpine lake that feels like a total hidden gem. The hike in is about 1.5 miles each way with gentle elevation gain—just enough to feel like a mini adventure, without wearing you out. The trail winds through quiet forest and open meadows, and in summer, you’ll catch wildflowers everywhere. Fall? It turns into a golden dream.

Once you reach the lake, you’ll find still water, soft mountain reflections, and—yes—actual lilies if the timing’s right. It’s calm, intimate, and perfect for couples who want something quiet, photogenic, and just a little off the radar. A lovely choice for a low-key ceremony with lots of space to just breathe it all in.

How Much Adventure Are You In For?

One of the best things about Crested Butte? You get to make your elopement exactly what you want it to be. Want something relaxed and easy-to-reach with stunning views? You’ve got it. Ready to lace up your boots and wander into the wildflower fields or up a trail to a waterfall? Yep, you can do that too.

Here’s a breakdown of the nine Crested Butte locations based on how much adventure (and hiking) you’re up for:

Laid-Back + Scenic (Minimal Effort, Big Payoff)

Perfect for couples who want that “mountains-meet-magic” energy without hiking uphill in formalwear.

  • Lake Irwin – No hike required. Drive right up to this peaceful alpine lake, and enjoy those calm reflections, big mountain views, and wildflowers everywhere in summer.
  • Woods Walk – A short, flat trail right near town that takes you through aspens and meadows with Mt. Crested Butte in the background. Easy, gorgeous, and romantic.
  • Washington Gulch – Super accessible by car, with endless spots to pull off and take in jaw-dropping mountain views. Great for a quick ceremony or photos at golden hour.
  • Kebler Pass – A slow, scenic drive through the largest aspen grove in the country. Beautiful spots are everywhere along the road—especially dreamy in the fall.
  • Gothic Road – Iconic and easy. A drive that gives you all the mountain magic without the effort. Pop out at any pull-off for that wildflower-meadow-meets-peak backdrop.
  • Meridian Lake (Long Lake) – Easy walk-in option with beautiful lake views, wildflowers, and space to explore.

A Little Bit of Adventure (Short, Moderate Trails)

These spots are for couples who want to stretch their legs a bit and explore without committing to a long hike.

  • Judd Falls Trail – About 2 miles roundtrip with moderate elevation. Beautiful forest, a waterfall, and views of Mt. Crested Butte make it totally worth the effort.
  • Snodgrass Mountain Trail – Rolling meadows, golden aspens, and views that don’t even look real. You can go as short or long as you’d like—it’s a flexible, super-rewarding trail.
  • Copley Lake – A short but scenic hike through forest and meadows to a quiet, off-the-radar lake surrounded by peaks.
  • Lily Lake – A peaceful trail just off Kebler Pass with gentle elevation and a calm alpine lake at the end. Wildflowers in summer, golden aspens in fall, and just the right amount of adventure.

Let’s Go Full Mountain Adventure (Remote or Rugged Access)

These locations bring the drama—with a little more effort or off-road spirit required. Perfect for couples who want their elopement to feel like a real escape.

  • Emerald Lake – No real hiking, but the drive in requires a high-clearance vehicle and a bit of grit. Once you’re there, it’s peaceful, bold, and totally stunning.
  • Paradise Divide – Remote, high-alpine, and absolutely breathtaking. A bit farther out, but you’ll be rewarded with total solitude and cinematic views in every direction.

No matter which path you choose, every one of these locations brings something special—and I’m here to help you pick the one that fits your vibe, your vision, and how much trail dust you’re willing to collect along the way.

Hidden Gems for Your Crested Butte Elopement

If you’re dreaming of an elopement in Crested Butte, the twelve locations listed above are just the beginning. I’ve spent a lot of time exploring these mountains, and along the way, I’ve stumbled across a few tucked-away gems that don’t always show up on the map—but trust me, they’re just as stunning. From quiet alpine meadows to wildflower-covered overlooks and little-known trails with jaw-dropping views, there are so many spots to fall in love with. If you’re up for something a little different, reach out and let’s chat—I’d love to help you find that perfect “you’ll never believe this exists” kind of place.

What Season is Best for Your Crested Butte Elopement?

One of the coolest things about Crested Butte? No matter the season, it shows up with something magical. Whether you’re picturing fields of wildflowers, golden aspen groves, or snowy peaks with that cozy winter feel—there’s truly no wrong time to elope here. It all comes down to what kind of vibe you’re going for.

Spring (April – May)

Spring in Crested Butte is definitely a shoulder season. The snow starts to melt, the town is quiet, and things slowly begin waking up for summer. You might find muddy trails and some lingering snow patches, but if you’re dreaming of total solitude and those soft, peaceful in-between-season feels, this time of year has its own charm. Just pack layers—and maybe some waterproof boots.

Summer (June – August)

This is peak wildflower season—and Crested Butte isn’t called the Wildflower Capital of Colorado for nothing. By mid-July, the valleys are covered in color, the trails are open, and the air is that perfect mountain crisp. It’s ideal for couples who want to explore a bit, soak in the views, and get married in the middle of a living bouquet. Just keep an eye on those afternoon storms (they roll in fast but make for some pretty dramatic skies).

Fall (September – October)

Golden hour? Meet golden everything. Fall in Crested Butte is pure magic. The aspen groves light up in every shade of yellow and gold, and the mountains get this soft, moody glow that feels like something out of a dream. It’s a popular time for a reason—so if you’re hoping for peak color and a little more privacy, aim for midweek or late September. It’s hands-down one of the most stunning times of year to elope here.

Winter (November – March)

If a snow-covered wonderland is your thing, winter in Crested Butte is the stuff of storybooks. Cozy cabins, ski town charm, and mountains blanketed in white. Whether you want to snowshoe into the woods, ride a snowcat, or just cozy up in the trees for a quiet vow exchange—this season brings all the magic (and then some). Just be prepared for chilly temps and limited trail access—winter adventures take a little extra planning, but they’re absolutely worth it.

Crested Butte Marriage License and Elopement Permits/Requirements

If you’re wanting to legally get married in Crested Butte, then you’ll need to visit the Gunnison County Clerk and Recording Office.

The marriage licenses are done in the Blackstock Government Center which is located at 200 W Virginia Ave, Gunnison, CO 81230.

Key Takeaways for Getting Your Crested Butte Marriage License:

  • Licenses are valid when issued and must be used within 35 days in the State of Colorado. The fee for this is $30.00.
  • Couples may solemnize their own marriage, witnesses are not required.
  • You do not need to get your license in the county where it’s used, but you will need to get it recorded in the county where it’s been issued.

As far as any permit requirements, it varies depending on which location you are getting married at. I highly recommend contacting the Gunnison Ranger District so ensure that you have everything you need in place to get married at your chosen location!

The Seven Principles – Leave No Trace

As a Crested Butte elopement photographer and avid outdoor lover, it’s incredibly important that we all follow The Seven Principles of Leave No Trace in order to protect and preserve this beautiful land that we have access to.

The Seven Principles:

  1. Plan Ahead & Prepare
  2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
  3. Dispose of Waste Properly
  4. Leave What You Find
  5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
  6. Respect Wildlife
  7. Be Considerate of Others

Places to Stay During Your Time in Crested Butte

Just like with beautiful Crested Butte elopement locations, there are also stunning places to stay in Crested Butte! Here are some options and ideas from Lodges to Airbnb’s!

Crested Butte Elopement Packages

Whether you’re planning a laid-back ceremony surrounded by wildflowers or an all-day mountain adventure that ends with a glowing alpine sunset, I offer Crested Butte elopement packages that are flexible, personal, and completely built around what feels right for the two of you. No stress, no pressure—just a beautiful day that’s relaxed, meaningful, and full of real connection.

We’ll work together to make sure your day flows naturally, allows space to breathe, and includes all the moments (big and small) that matter most to you. Want to hike? Let’s do it. Want to keep it simple and cozy near town? I’ve got the perfect spot.

You’ll also get to choose your editing style—because how your photos feel is just as important as how they look.

  • Light Style – A vibrant but natural editing style with true-to-life colors and a soft, elegant finish. Think timeless, airy, and full of warmth and emotion.
  • Dark Style – A bold and dramatic editing style with a sensational crisp finish. Rich contrast, moody tones, and a little extra drama in all the best ways.
  • Twilight Style – A perfect blend of the two—balancing soft, natural light with just the right amount of depth and richness. It’s cinematic, moody, and beautifully balanced.

Not sure which one fits your story best? We can absolutely talk through it—or even mix and match if you love a little of both. After all, your elopement should feel like you.

Looking for a Crested Butte Elopement Photographer? I’m Ready!

If Crested Butte feels like the place where your love story was meant to unfold, I’m here and so ready to help you plan a day that’s true to who you are. Whether it’s wildflowers, golden aspens, or quiet snowy trails calling your name, let’s create something beautiful, meaningful, and totally you.

Fill out my contact form and let’s start dreaming up your perfect Crested Butte elopement.

Want to see more love stories in the mountains? Come hang out with me on Instagram: @amazingcoloradophotography

Let’s make it happen.

I'm Amazing!

I’m a little… different. Think of me as the chaotic good of wedding photography—I thrive on creativity, spontaneity, and capturing love stories that break the mold. I’m a HUGE nerd and a hopeless romantic. 

Posing can feel as awkward as your first time waking up to, "oh it's you, you're finally awake." (Currently holding my breathe for the couples that know that reference!) I have been there! That’s why you deserve a photographer who gets it, who makes you feel comfortable, and who will have you laughing so hard you forget the camera is even there. (Seriously, I’m incredibly silly, and I’ll probably say something ridiculous just to get that real, genuine smile out of you.)

I live for the unfiltered, joy-filled, beautifully messy moments—whether it’s the emotion of your first dance, the bouquet toss, or the inside jokes that only you and your partner understand. Your wedding day should be as uniquely you as your fandoms, your inside jokes, and your love story.

Are you the kind of person who follows the rules just because? No? Then why have a wedding that does? Ditch the cookie-cutter and embrace your weird, wonderful, nerdy selves. Hire not just a photographer, but a fellow geek, an adventurer, and a storyteller who will capture your love story in all its epic, legendary, and meme-worthy glory.

Colorado Wedding & Elopement Packages

Testimonials

"Amazing is just that, amazing! It was overwhelming to find the right photographer for our engagement session and wedding, but I’m so glad we found her! At the time, my husband and I were living overseas but Amazing kept constant communication with us even with the 8 hour time difference. When we finally got to meet her in person she was so sweet and made both us feel comfortable right away. When we got back our photos from the engagement session, we knew we made the right choice! On the day of the wedding, Amazing and her team were on time, professional, and we’re able to get the shots they needed even with our large bridal party. Our photos are absolutely perfect and we couldn’t be happier. I will always recommend her to anyone who’s looking for a photographer and I hope we can use her again for more photos in the future! Thank you Amazing."

-Lizette

Testimonials

"Her name defines her! She is an Amazing human and photographer She was everywhere we needed her to be on our wedding day. Her eye for the perfect background to compliment the shot matched her talent for producing a gallery of beautiful photographs and memories that will be treasured for the rest of our lives. If you want a worry free wedding day with a fun, professional photographer you can count on to deliver priceless wedding photos at a competitive price, Amazing is your gal!!"

-Robynne & Cheryl

Testimonials

"Amazing took our engagement photos and then our wedding photos about a year later. We couldn't be more thrilled with the results! Her work is truly an art form and it's so clear to see how much she loves her career. I chose Amazing over other photographers based on her vibes alone! Her personality is everything you could want in a wedding photographer. She's professional, but without being stuffy. She knows how to have fun, she's friendly, and easy to socialize with. She's trustworthy and reliable as she was always on time. She captured all the joy and beauty of our wedding day and we will cherish our pictures forever!"

-Katlyn

Testimonials

"There are not enough stars I could give, or positive words I could say. Amazing was an exceptional photographer for our wedding. She helped make the day as stress free as possible. She worked seamlessly with our coordinator to capture all the best moments. The weather was uncooperative for the entire day, but that didn’t slow her down, she rolled with it. She was out in the rain with my husband and I doing our first look, and then capturing some of the most beautiful before pics. She somehow managed to be both easy going and direct. She had great communication leading up to and during the wedding day. Honestly, if she lived near me I would have Amazing take all of my professional photos! Thank you for helping to make our day absolutely perfect!"

-Samantha

Testimonials

"Amazing and her second photographer did an absolute fabulous job at capturing our big day! We couldn’t be more pleased with how accommodating she was during the whole process. From our engagement pictures to our wedding pictures; all of it was stunning. I wish she lived closer so she could be our photographer for all life’s precious moments. She went above and beyond and delivered more pictures than ever expected. I would recommend her to anyone that ever needs a photographer. Thanks again Amazing, your name says it all :)"

-Brandi

Testimonials

"We booked Amazing for both our engagement photos, as well as our wedding. The pictures for both turned out absolutely incredible and she made sure to capture all of the special moments at our wedding. She is so much fun to work with and I would happily book with her again! Our wedding album was stunning and exceeded our expectations. The quality of the album was impressive and Amazing went above and beyond with this as well. Photos on her site are exactly what you can expect to receive back when you book her. You will not be disappointed!!"

-Alexa

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