Breckenridge
Elopement Guide
Planning to get married in Colorado? Breckenridge is a great choice!
Summit County is hands down one of the coolest parts of Colorado, with year-round outdoor activities and huge mountain views. And right at the heart of it is an iconic ski town that would make the perfect setting for your adventure elopement.
Breckenridge is famous for its ski resort, historic downtown, and access to so much cool nature for adventuring. Whether you're an avid skier, hiker, or just a lover of gorgeous nature, you should consider getting married in Breckenridge!
Why should you elope in
Breckenridge?
01/
Easy Travel
Breckenridge is not far off I-70, and only two hours from Denver International Airport. It's easy to get to if you're from out of state or are inviting friends and family to your elopement.
02/
Open Year-Round
Breckenridge is a ski resort town, so it doesn't close down in the winter. You can have a Breckenridge elopement during any season!
03/
Big Mountain Views
Breckenridge sits at the base of the Rocky Mountains' Tenmile Range. The town is nestled beneath expansive mountain views for a stunning backdrop.
04/
Lots of Amenities
Breckenridge is a popular destination, so it has tons of options for vendors, activities, and restaurants. It has all the amenities and comforts of a city with a small mountain town vibe.
Not sure how to do this?
Howdy! I'm Sam, Your Breckenridge Elopement
Photographer & Planner
I know there are so many options and things to consider when planning an elopement. I absolutely adore helping couples through this process + reducing stress! Breckenridge is one of the many parts of Colorado I know like the back of my hand.
Hiring your elopement photographer + planner is the perfect first step in planning your Breckenridge elopement – even if you aren't 100% sure of when or where yet! I’ll help you through every step of the process, from choosing a time of year/date for the perfect weather conditions, to picking a spot with amazing views, to securing any necessary permits, to finding other vendors and planning wedding outfits that are perfect for adventuring.
Hopefully the information below will help you decide if Breckenridge is right for you guys! Let's go over everything you need to know about eloping in Breckenridge, Colorado.
We're gonna chat about all of this:
Where to Elope in
Breckenridge
Loveland Pass
Loveland Pass connects the towns Silverthorne and Georgetown just a short drive from Breckenridge. It's one of the highest mountain pass roads in the country, and there are tons of stunning, unique locations along the pass for a hiking or off-roading elopement.
I'd recommend Loveland Pass to couples planning a Breckenridge elopement without any guests, because there aren't dedicated ceremony or wedding locations – but there are plenty of places off the beaten path for a private, intimate elopement.
Loveland Pass is also great because you won't need to deal with venue reservations or permits.
Dillon Reservoir
In addition to the "official" elopement sites around the lake like Sapphire and Windy Points, you can elope along the shoreline of Dillon Reservoir without needing to reserve a ceremony space.
This is best for Breckenridge elopements with "just the two of you," because there won't be any seating for guests, and we'll want to be respectful to other visitors since the space isn't private.
But it's a great way to capture the gorgeous lake views with more privacy than popular overlooks and flexibility to find the perfect backdrop!
Sapphire Point Overlook
Sapphire Point is one of the most popular elopement spots in Breckenridge area... but I actually don't recommend it! You can read my blog all about why I don't recommend an elopement here – the gist is that Sapphire Point is very busy and not at all private.
However, I can't deny that it's a pretty spot, and I'm happy to chat with you if you have your heart set on a Breckenridge elopement at Sapphire Point.
Windy Point Campground
Windy Point Campground is just down the road from Sapphire Point on Dillon Reservoir. It's such a fun elopement location for a small group of guests because you can reserve one of two group campsites for your whole crew.
There are several cute potential ceremony sites through the campground with views of the reservoir, including a wooden pavilion.
Windy Point is reservation-only, so it's super private – just you and your loved ones camping for your wedding!
Boreas Pass
Boreas Pass is a mountain pass south of Breckenridge that winds through aspens and past some historic railroad structures. There are a variety of amazing backdrops along the pass for a ceremony, portraits, and even first dance locations!
4WD is recommended on this 21-mile road, so you could rent a Jeep for the weekend, or tag along in my 4Runner.
You can definitely find privacy and quiet for an intimate Breckenridge elopement way out in nature along Boreas Pass.
Frisco Adventure Park
Frisco Adventure Park in nearby Frisco is a more traditional venue perfect for microweddings. The outdoor ceremony site has the Tenmile Mountain Range as its backdrop. The wooden platform for ceremonies and option to rent chairs for guests are great if you're including family with limited mobility in your day.
The park also has year-round activities for fun before or after your Breckenridge elopement – including sledding, sleigh rides, disc golf, and hiking trails.
The Middle of Nowhere!
A.K.A. my favorite option! I'm super familiar with this area and happy to help you find a unique and private spot for your Breckenridge elopement.
When you reach out to me to start planning, I'll send you a location guide that includes some "secret spots" that aren't on any maps or guides, but provide the coolest views for the most adventurous couples!
Blue Lakes **Closed**
While stunning, Blue Lakes is currently closed to elopements, weddings, and photography. This used to be a very popular elopement location, so photos of it are all over the internet.
I will update this if it ever reopens to weddings or photography!
Did one of these locations
strike your fancy?
Reach out to me to start planning your ideal Breckenridge elopement!
Adventuring During Your Breckenridge Elopement
Of course, one of the best things about eloping in Breckenridge is all the fun activities you can include in your day! No matter the season – or how adventurous you're feeling – there are lots of fun ways to enjoy nature during your elopement.
Hiking
There are literally too many hikes in the Breckenridge area to count. Whether you want to spend the whole day on the trail, or just start the morning of your elopement with a private hike with your partner, there's a perfect trail nearby for your timeline and experience. Here are a few of my favorites – and I can always provide more specific suggestions when we start planning your elopement!
- Sawmill Reservoir (1.3 miles)
- Hoosier Pass Loop (2.8 miles)
- McCullough Gulch (4.8 miles)
- Spruce Creek to Mohawk Lakes (8.4 miles)
Off-Roading
Some of the coolest passes in the Breckenridge areas are only accessible via 4WD – so grab a Jeep, pack a picnic, and spend your elopement day winding down a dirt road through the aspens with your partner! Here are a few neat off-roading trails near Breckenridge:
- Boreas Pass Road (21 miles)
- Webster Pass Road (28 miles)
- Kepler Pass Road (31 miles)
Skiing & Snowboarding
A day on the ski slopes would be such a unique and memorable way to kick off your elopement. Even if you're a total beginner, Summit County's resorts have lessons and rentals, so you and your partner can ski (and fall) together!
Ice Skating
There aren't many places you can ice skate on a totally natural frozen lake, but Breckenridge is one of them! Several lakes and ponds in the area are maintained for skating during the winter. (Or if you're feeling super adventurous, bring your own skates and snowshoe up to an alpine lake for an insane adventure!)
Sleigh Rides
I literally can't imagine a more romantic way to end a winter Breckenridge elopement day than a horse-drawn sleigh ride. Breckenridge Stables and Golden Horseshoe Sleigh Rides both offer scenic journeys through the snow.
Snowshoeing
Many of the hiking trails around Breckenridge turn into snowshoeing opportunities in the winter! You can take a guided snowshoeing tour at the Breckenridge Nordic Center, or just rent a pair (or two) and embark into the backcountry.
Sailboating
For an epic romantic adventure in the summer months, consider including a sailboat ride in your Breckenridge elopement! Dillon Marina and Sail the Summit both offer daytime and evening sailboat tours.
Paddleboarding
If you prefer a more casual way to get around the lake, you and your partner can rent stand-up paddleboards at Charter Sports or Alpine Sports in downtown Breckenridge.
Maggie Pond and Dillon Reservoir both allow paddleboards. This would be such a fun and relaxing start to your Breckenridge elopement day, and iconically "Colorado."
The Best Time to Elope in Breckenridge
When should you elope in Breckenridge?
Pretty much everything in Breckenridge is open and accessible year round, so the ideal time of year for your elopement truly depends on what's important to you!
Are you aiming for snowy ski resort vibes and spending time on the slopes with your partner? Or do you want to hike to wildflower meadows and paddleboard across an alpine lake?
Take a look my blog post for all the details about eloping in Colorado any season! Or keep scrolling for a Breckenridge-specific breakdown of each season.
Fall
Late September and early October brings peak fall colors to Summit County. Your Breckenridge elopement can have a backdrop of golden aspens and cool, crisp weather during this season!
Winter
Winter in Breckenridge lasts from November to about May. Breckenridge is unique because even though it's right in the heart of a snowy mountain range, it's still accessible during winter weather because the ski resorts keep roads clear and business booming. If you plan a winter Breckenridge elopement, you can include skiing, snowshoeing, or even a romantic sleigh ride in your day!
Spring
Breckenridge doesn't have much of a true spring season. Things don't completely "defrost" until June, so spring is the muddy off-season between ski season and summer hiking weather. A spring Breckenridge elopement does have one key advantage, though: it's much less busy and easier to find places to stay!
Summer
Summer in Breckenridge starts in late June and lasts until mid-September. This is the perfect season for gorgeous, clear mountain views and wildflowers in July. If your dream Breckenridge elopement includes off-roading or hiking, summer is the best season!
Elope on a weekday!
One of my biggest pieces of advice for couples choosing when to elope is to pick a weekday! Unlike with a traditional wedding, you don't have to worry about guests' schedules, so there's no reason to limit yourself to weekends.
Weekdays are often cheaper for booking vendors and accommodations, and all the trails, resorts, and restaurants are less busy with other visitors.
Got a season in mind for
your elopement?
I'd love to chat about all the pros and cons and help you pick the perfect time of year for your Breckenridge elopement!
Where to Grab Dinner in Breckenridge
You'll probably have worked up an appetite after all that adventuring. Fortunately, Breckenridge has a wide variety of amazing restaurants, whether you're seeking a more casual brewery vibe or a romantic candlelit dinner.
Hearthstone
An upscale American restaurant in a historic Victorian home, Hearthstone is my number one recommendation for a romantic dinner in Breckenridge. They also have private and group dining options if you're celebrating with family and friends.
Dillon Dam Brewery
If you choose Dillon Reservoir as your elopement location, Dillon Dam Brewery is right nearby, with classic brewpub food and a big tap list. The brewery has a fun, casual vibe, and can accommodate groups and private events.
Outer Range Brewery
Located in nearby Frisco, Outer Range Brewery has a taproom that serves fried chicken, coffee, and of course, lots of craft beer. You can walk in and grab a beer and a bite after a hike, or the brewery hosts everything from small, intimate private parties to large events, including full-service catering options.
Traverse Restaurant & Bar
If dining with a mountain view is your priority, Traverse Restaurant & Bar inside The Lodge at Breckenridge has classic steakhouse dishes and lots of local beer, wine, and cocktail options.
how to Plan Your
Breckenridge Elopement
If this guide has convinced you that a Breckenridge elopement might be right for you, but you’re not quite sure where to start and feeling overwhelmed by the options, don’t panic! I’ll break down the steps to planning your dream elopement and do my best to make the process as stress-free as possible for you and your partner.
Step One:
Contact Me
First things first, fill out my contact form! No worries if you don’t have all the details figured out yet – reach out to me with your ideas, and I can help walk you through the rest of the steps from inquiry to elopement day. I pride myself on being not just an elopement photographer, but also a local expert, planner, and my couples’ best friend as they navigate the elopement planning process.
Step two:
Pick a Time & Place
This is where I come in as your on-the-ground local expert. I'll create a personalized location guide based on your preferences and priorities. If one of the sites above has piqued your interest, awesome! But I’ll also share some hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path ideas, and help you choose the perfect location for your Breckenridge elopement.
Once we have the location nailed down, if you don't already have a date in mind, I'll help you choose the perfect timing for whatever activities and backdrop you're envisioning on your Breckenridge elopement day.
Step three:
Find Other Vendors
If your dream elopement includes florals, hair and makeup, skiing or snowshoeing, or even a Jeeping adventure, I can provide tailored recommendations for vendors to make it all happen! I have great relationships with many local vendors and experience with many of the hotels, restaurants, and rental companies in the area.
I can also help you find accommodations for your Breckenridge elopement, whether it's an Airbnb for cute getting-ready photos, or the perfect campspot for a night under the stars.
Step four:
Get Your Marriage License
If you’re planning to apply for a marriage license in Colorado, make sure you’re familiar with all the rules and regulations!
Summit County residents can apply for a license in person, without an appointment, and the whole process only takes about 20 minutes. For Colorado residents from other counties, Summit County recommends applying for a marriage license in your home county.
However, the process for out-of-state applicants is a little more complicated. You'll need to book an appointment in advance, and the slots are pretty limited. Summit County recommends checking out nearby counties if you're traveling for your elopement and you're unable to snag an appointment in the timeframe you need.
If you're traveling from out-of-state for your Breckenridge elopement and stressed about getting a marriage license, you can also choose to apply for a marriage license in your home state, before or after your elopement. That way you can just focus on your partner, your vows, and your adventures together during your elopement day!
And because Colorado is a self-solemnization state, you don't need an officiant or witnesses to elope in Rocky Mountain National Park! (Your dog can even "sign" your marriage license as your witness if you want.) For more info on self-solemnization and rules for Colorado marriage licenses, check out my guide on How to Get Legally Married in Colorado.
Step five:
Elope!
With all the planning out of the way (and me on your team to tackle any last-minute emergencies), all that's left to do is have the adventure of your lifetime with your person!
Fill out my contact form below to start chatting – no matter where you are in the planning process!
Let's chat!
