Everything you need to know about eloping in Ouray, Colorado
Views? Check. Off-roading? Check. Accessible hiking (and elopement) spots? Check. Cute mountain town? Check.
As an Ouray elopement photographer and Colorado local, I love the effort-to-reward ratio in Ouray. The mountain town has so many beautiful views that don’t require too much legwork to experience. Plus, with so many accessible 4×4 or Jeep trails, there are secluded Ouray elopement spots for everyone.
And did I mention that Ouray is stunning? It’s called the “Switzerland of America” for its breathtaking lakes, majestic waterfalls, and towering San Juan Mountains. There are also hot springs, a classic mountain town, and alpine meadows. Here’s what you need to know about planning an Ouray elopement from an Ouray elopement photographer.
When To Plan Your Ouray Elopement
Spring (May to June)
While many high-elevation roads are still closed in the spring, sometimes they open early, and with that, you’re treated to both the cool winter wonderland and the fresh awakenings of spring. Ouray also has many waterfalls and creeks that look the best in the spring before the tourist season really begins.
Summer (July to August)
Summer in Ouray is ideal for 4x4ing, the biggest draw of an Ouray elopement. With the meadows full of wildflowers, you’ll understand exactly why Ouray is compared to Switzerland. However, it is peak tourism season, so plan for an early morning weekday elopement to find privacy.
Fall (September to October)
Fall colors usually peak in Ouray only for a couple of weeks — around the end of September and the beginning of October. After that, the trees lose their leaves quickly, and winter settles into the mountains. If you do get married in the fall in Ouray, the views are absolutely stunning.
Winter (November to April)
A winter Ouray elopement is a good idea for couples who love winter adventure. However, if you want to 4×4 in Ouray, winter is not the time since most off-roading is closed in the winter. The roads that are open can be dangerous. However, snowshoeing, ice climbing, and cross-country skiing are available for the winter-adventurous couple.
How To Elope In Ouray
1. hire an ouray elopement photographer
It might seem strange to hire a photographer before you figure out all the details. But, as a Colorado local who loves exploring Ouray, I’ll work with you to help you figure out the timing, location, and adventure for your elopement. Aside from being an Ouray elopement photographer, I’m an adventurer at heart with a GPS, scouting skills, and gear garage to prove it.
2. sort out colorado marriage requirements
Getting married in Colorado is straightforward. You’ll need to obtain a marriage license from any county clerk’s office in the state. It costs $30. The closest place to get your license is the Ouray County Clerk in Ouray. You might also need to get a permit, depending on where you want to have your Ouray elopement. However, that’s something that we’ll figure out together if you hire me to be your Ouray elopement photographer.
3. plan your ouray adventure elopement
Ouray has so much to offer for any adventure level. From moderate hikes to challenging 4×4 routes to rock or ice climbing, you can have a beautifully varied trip to Ouray. And the best part about planning to elope is your wedding is about you and what you want to do. So do what sounds fun when planning your Ouray elopement.
Where To Get Married In Ouray for your elopement
Ouray Perimeter Trail
So, you want waterfalls for your Ouray elopement? How about FOUR waterfalls? This 5.6 mile moderate hike just outside of Ouray offers mountains, bridges, views of the town, and, of course, waterfalls. Keep in mind that the trail gets slippery in fall and spring and is covered in snow in the winter.
Million Dollar Highway
This 25-mile portion of the San Juan Skywalk Scenic byway connects Silverton and Ouray. The vertical canyons, abandoned mining towns, and San Juan peaks make it a bucket list drive, and there are plenty of spots along the highway where you can stop and explore. I recommend the Million Dollar Highway for post-elopement pictures or adventures afterward.
Imogen Pass
Imogen Pass is the highest mountain pass in the San Juan Mountains and connects Telluride and Ouray. It is almost 19 miles of off-roading adventure — perfect for jeeping or 4x4ing. As your Ouray elopement photographer, I know spots along the way for gorgeous adventures, vow ceremonies, and photos.
Yankee Boy Basin
You can see why Ouray is called the Switzerland of America in Yankee Boy Basin. With a lush valley, spring and summer wildflowers, canyons, and waterfalls, it’s a beautiful place to explore with an off-road vehicle and get married along the way.
Gold Mountain Ranch
Overlooking the town of Ouray is Gold Mountain Ranch. This beautiful venue offers lodging and horseback riding. It can also accommodate up to 40 guests outside for a wedding. Check the details on their website.
Real Ouray Elopements
Ouray Elopement Packages
What you get from me goes far past the photos
- Location Scouting – Access to my exclusive list of hidden spots in Ouray
- Custom Timeline Planning – So your day flows naturally with the best light and minimal stress
- Permit & Logistics Guidance – No paperwork headaches, just easy elopement planning
- Vendor Recommendations – A handpicked list of florists, officiants, and more to bring your vision to life
- Unlimited Support – Ask me anything! From travel tips to weather planning, I’ve got you
Because when your day, location, and timing are planning just right—your elopement pictures turn out incredible!
Want to have your own Ouray elopement?
Reach Out To An Ouray Elopement Photographer
<<<< that’s me, kelly
You bring the vision, and I’ll take care of the rest. As your Ouray elopement photographer, I’m your adventure buddy, with my gear garage, GPS, and camera at the ready. Plus, I’ll recommend the best dates and locations to fit the scenery and landscape you want for your Ouray elopement. So, let’s start planning your Ouray elopement. Reach out below.
