Colorado in the winter is unreal in the best way. Snowy peaks, quiet trails, soft light, fewer crowds, and that cozy “we’re in this together” feeling that makes the whole day feel extra intentional. But winter is also… winter. Shorter days, colder temps, road closures, and weather that can change its mind fast.
If you’re dreaming of a Colorado winter wedding or elopement, this post will walk you through what it’s really like — the pros, the challenges, what to plan for, what to pack, and how to make the day feel easy.
Why winter is such a good season to get married in Colorado
Having a winter elopement has it’s benefits. There will be fewer tourists in the winter months, meaning you’ll have much more privacy at even some of the busiest Colorado elopement locations. There’s also the fact that your elopement pictures will turn out amazing. The white snow makes everything look clean and bright. My favorite part of winter elopement pictures is the contrast of the evergreen trees against the white snowfall. It’s so magical! One big benefit of eloping in the winter is the affordability. Some vendors and lodging options are more affordable and flexible in the winter. The timing of the day is a big benefit too. The sun sets sooner, meaning you won’t have to decide between having dinner, or taking photos during golden hour like you would during the summer months. You can wrap up your pictures by 5pm, and then head off for a cozy dinner after to celebrate.
How to plan for your Colorado winter wedding or elopement
This section is not to scare you, just to set you up for success.
What to wear
My biggest advice on what to wear for your Colorado winter wedding or elopement: you can look amazing and stay warm, you just have to plan for it. The goal is to be comfortable enough that you’re actually enjoying your day (and not visibly freezing in your photos). Start with the basics: thick wool socks, insulated waterproof boots, and synthetic base layers under your outfit. From there, add an insulated winter coat, gloves, and earmuffs if it’s windy. When picking out your elopement wedding dress, consider heavier fabrics like silk mikado, velvet, and brocade, these will help with keeping you warm.
What to bring
Work with your elopement photographer to figure out exactly what you need to pack for your winter elopement in Colorado. Where you’re going will determine what you’ll need to bring. For example, if there as a recent snowfall, you might need snowshoes. But if you’re going to a trail that sees a lot of foot traffic, you might not need snowshoes because the trail will be packed down. If the temperatures are below freezing, sometimes you’ll need crampons so you’re not sliding on ice when trying to enjoy your elopement.
Understanding the weather and the roads
In Colorado winter, big snowstorms can move in fast—and when they do, road closures are common. If you’re traveling through the mountains (especially on I-70), pay close attention to the forecast and try not to be on the highway when a storm is expected. I-70 can shut down with little warning, and you could end up stuck in traffic or rerouted into the nearest mountain town. Sometimes it reopens quickly once plows catch up, but during a major storm you may be there for the night—so it’s smart to keep your car stocked with a few basic supplies, just in case.
Picking a location for your Colorado winter wedding or elopement
Colorado Winter Elopement Locations
In Colorado, some elopement locations are automatically off-limits in winter—certain mountain passes close, and avalanche risk can make some popular trails a no-go. (Some elopement photographers are avalanche certified; I’m not.) The best way to choose a Colorado winter elopement location is to start with what you want your day to feel like, then pick a spot that matches your comfort level. Think through things like: do you want to hike at all, how accessible do you need the ceremony spot to be, are you open to snowshoeing or do you want to stick to packed trails, and how close do you want to stay to your car so you can warm up between photos. Personally, I love suggesting to get married in Rocky Mountain National Park for a Colorado winter elopement.
Colorado Winter Wedding Locations When Inviting Guests
Colorado Winter Wedding Venues for 200+ Guests
The Little Nell
Max guest count: 250 | Location: Aspen | Tidbits: This luxurious ski-in/ski-out resort at the base of Aspen Mountain offers breathtaking views, five-star amenities, and exceptional service. Choose between an elegant indoor ballroom or an outdoor terrace with a heated tent, ensuring a memorable experience no matter the weather.
Devil’s Thumb Ranch
Max guest count: 350 | Location: Tabernash | Tidbits: Surrounded by the picturesque Continental Divide, this rustic yet chic ranch offers an authentic Colorado experience. The venue features several indoor and outdoor event spaces, including a cozy barn, a stunning outdoor pavilion, and an intimate wine cellar.
The Lodge at Breckenridge
Max guest count: 220 | Location: Breckenridge | Tidbits: Perched on a cliff overlooking the historic town of Breckenridge, this charming mountain lodge offers a perfect blend of rustic elegance and modern amenities. With indoor and outdoor ceremony options, your guests will be captivated by the panoramic views of the Tenmile Range.
Vail Mountain Resort
Max guest count: 350 | Location: Vail | Tidbits: Nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, Vail Mountain Resort offers a variety of event spaces, including the stunning mountaintop Wedding Deck and the elegant 10th Mountain Division Hut. Treat your guests to a scenic gondola ride and world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities.
Timber Ridge Lodge
Max guest count: 200 | Location: Keystone | Tidbits: Accessible only by gondola, this mountaintop lodge offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountain ranges. With vaulted ceilings, a massive stone fireplace, and an outdoor ceremony site, Timber Ridge Lodge creates a warm and inviting atmosphere for your winter wedding.
Della Terra Mountain Chateau
Max guest count: 200 | Location: Estes Park | Tidbits: Located at the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, this romantic mountain chateau features luxury suites, a dedicated event space, and an intimate outdoor ceremony site.
San Sophia Overlook
Max guest count: 250 | Location: Telluride | Tidbits: You can take a snow cat up to your ceremony site during your Colorado winter wedding, and then ski down the slopes!
Colorado Winter Wedding Venues for Up To 50 Guests
Alpino Vino
Max guest count: 24 | Location: Telluride | Tidbits: Associated with Tellski Events, this cozy Colorado winter wedding venue is perfect for a small gathering.
Dunton Hot Springs
Max guest count: 44 | Location: Dolores | Tidbits: Where actress Lily Collins got married, Dunton Hot Springs is a majestic Colorado winter wedding venue with tons of activities to participate in during your stay.
Sapphire Point Overlook
Max guest count: 35 | Location: Dillon | Tidbits: This is an outdoor Colorado winter wedding venue that must be reserved. With views of the surrounding mountains, and Dillon reservoir below, it’s a great location for couples wanting a location that is easily accessible, with great views.
Bear Lake
Max guest count: 20 | Location: Rocky Mountain National Park | Tidbits: If you’re looking for a true winter wonderland, including mountain views, and dense snow covered evergreens, consider an outdoor Bear Lake wedding.
Sprague Lake
Max guest count: 30 | Location: Rocky Mountain National Park | Tidbits: Note that the max guest count is 30 in the winter, and that number reduces to 15 in the summer.
Timeline planning for your Colorado winter wedding or elopement
Winter adds a few extra factors to timeline planning, mostly because everything moves slower. Snow and ice can slow down walking, driving, and any hiking more than you expect—so it helps to build in a little buffer time. I also recommend keeping travel simple: fewer locations and less driving means less stress if you need to pivot for weather, and it’s safer if roads get sketchy. And if it’s really cold, plan for warm-up breaks on purpose. Staying close to your car (at least for the ceremony and portraits) makes it easy to hop in, heat up, and keep the day feeling good.
Get excited about planning your Colorado winter wedding or elopement
Getting married in the winter in Colorado can be a beautiful experience if you’re prepared, know what to expect, and hire an experienced Colorado elopement photographer. If you’re wanting to talk to me more about helping you plan your wedding or elopement, fill out the form below and i’ll be in touch within 1-2 business days. I can’t wait to start planning your adventure of a lifetime!
