Thinking about having a winter wonderland elopement in the Rocky Mountains? I got you.

Most couples tend to plan their Colorado elopement in the summer, and while I totally get the love for wildflowers and alpine lakes, I’m here to change your mind. A Colorado winter elopement offers all the same beauty and adventure, with a totally different kind of magic.

Dramatic mountain peaks dusted in snow, quiet trails with no one else around, cozy cabins glowing with firelight, and snowflakes falling while you say your vows. Dreamy, right?

Perks of a Winter Elopement in Colorado

• Hardly any crowds: You’ll have those epic mountain views all to yourselves.
• Snowglobe vibes: Your elopement photos will look straight out of a fairytale.
• Still dramatic mountain backdrops: The Rockies don’t lose their grandeur, they just get covered in a sparkly blanket of snow.
• Easier access to vendors: Many vendors are readily available in winter, so you tend to get your full pick of the litter!
  

Best Locations for a Winter Elopement

Breckenridge 

• Stunning views from the Tenmile range 
• Endless accessible trails with jaw-dropping vistas.
• Tons of cozy Airbnbs, plus skiing and snowboarding right at your doorstep.
  

Hartsel

• Perfect for couples who want open fields with distant mountain views
• Wide-open, ranch-style Colorado feel
• Peaceful, private land with rivers and creeks running through

Buena Vista (Favorite!)

• Nestled near the Collegiate Peaks
• Often stays 10–15 degrees warmer than Breckenridge
• A perfect blend of snow-covered mountains and milder, sunnier days

Silverthorne (Favorite!)

• The Gore Range is unmatched, with stunning views and endless trails
• Completely intimate areas even in winter
• Options from easy 2 mile hikes to 12 mile high alpine adventures
• Views, forests, frozen lakes: the Gore Range has it all

Top Winter Elopement Activities

Turn your elopement into an adventure day you’ll never forget:

• Cross-country ski to a scenic overlook on the Salt Lick trails
• Snowshoe through a quiet forest to Mohawk Lakes
• Hike to an abandoned cabin and share a thermos of hot coffee
• Pop champagne in the backcountry or grab a beer at Black Mountain Lodge at A-Basin
• Go snowmobiling through open fields in Leadville or try dog sledding for a thrill in Breck
• End your day watching the sunset by a frozen lake, then stargaze under crystal-clear skies
• Soak in hot springs together to warm up and unwind

How to Prepare for Your Winter Elopement

Temperatures:

In the high alpine, expect anywhere from 10°F to 40°F, depending on the month and location. Being prepared makes all the difference in enjoying your day.

Packing Tips

Here’s how to stay warm and stylish:

• Wear base layers (fleece lined leggings or thermal tops) under your dress or suit.
  
• SmartWool or moisture wicking socks to keep feet dry and warm.
  
• Waterproof hiking boots for snow and slush.
  
• Mid layers like a puffy jacket for the trek to your ceremony spot.
  
• Outer shell for wind and waterproofing.
  
• Insulated gloves and hand warmers (don’t worry, I’ll have extras!).
  
• Sunglasses for that bright mountain sun.
  
• A beanie or insulated hat for the hike up.
  

Pro tip:

Hike up in your layers and pack your outfit (I bring a private changing station for the bride and groom so you can look incredible without freezing).

Dealing with Colorado Winter Weather

Winter storms can roll through anytime from November to April, bringing wind, snow, and bright sun reflecting off the snow. Don’t stress, I always track weather closely, create a flexible timeline, and have backup locations ready in case conditions shift. Safety and comfort are always priority number one.

Best Months for a Winter Elopement

December

Early December is chef’s kiss. The snow is building, temperatures are manageable, and mountain towns start twinkling with holiday lights. You’ll get that magical “snowglobe” vibe, and fewer crowds than during Christmas week.

February

Usually drier with more bluebird skies. It’s stunning for clear mountain views, but can be extremely cold and dry, so extra layers are key.

March

The snowiest month in Colorado! Temperatures start to rise, and the snow turns heavy and photogenic. It’s also prime time for spring skiing and lively mountain town events. Expect some crowds, but also lots of fun energy and fresh snow.

How does a CO winter elopement sound to you?

A Colorado winter elopement is pure magic: quiet, cozy, and wildly romantic. Whether you’re exchanging vows in a snowy forest, sipping cocoa by a frozen lake, or adventuring through alpine peaks, winter brings a level of intimacy and wonder you just can’t find anywhere else.

So grab your boots, pack your layers, and let’s plan the ultimate winter elopement adventure together.