Artists Point Elopement Guide
Posted On | May 27, 2025
If you’re dreaming about eloping somewhere that feels like it was pulled straight from a storybook – towering pines, sweeping views, and a crazy peaceful vibe – an Artists Point elopement on Flagstaff Mountain might be your perfect spot. It’s a little less famous than some other overlooks around Boulder, which means you can usually snag a slice of that mountain magic without dodging crowds. Let’s walk through everything you need to know to make an Artists Point elopement easy and unforgettable.
Artists Point Elopement Quick Facts
LOCATION
Located at the top of Flagstaff Mountain outside Boulder, here are the coordinates for Artists Point: 40.005411, -105.307875
COST
You’ll need a $35 Colorado marriage license, and your photographer will need a $50 Boulder OSMP Photography Permit.
Number of people
Artists Point is best for tiny groups – up to 10 people total. That keeps things cozy, intimate, and respectful of the natural space.
Accessibility
In the warmer months, there’s a short, easy trail from the parking lot near the Flagstaff Nature Center to Artists Point – about 0.3 miles one way. It’s mostly flat and very beginner-friendly. In winter (Nov 1 – Apr 30), Flagstaff Summit Road is closed at Realization Point, meaning you’ll need to park lower down and walk 0.83 miles each way along the road from the Realization Point Trailhead. Totally doable (and more private), but you’ll want warm clothes, snacks, water, and sturdy shoes.
Elevation
6,888 ft
Where is Artists Point?
Artists Point is tucked along Flagstaff Mountain, just outside of downtown Boulder, CO. It’s part of Boulder’s Open Space and Mountain Parks system (OSMP), which means it’s preserved land packed with natural beauty.
Head up Flagstaff Road until you reach the main parking lot near Realization Point. Take a right onto Flagstaff Summit Road and from there, it’s less than a mile drive to the parking lot for Artists Point.
How Long Is The Hike To Artists Point?
The Artist Point hike from the parking lot to the overlook area is only about 0.1 miles each way. Super easy and perfect if you want those stunning outdoor vibes without needing to hike a mountain in your wedding clothes.
That said, in the winter, it’s a bit more of a trek. When Flagstaff Summit Road is closed from November 1st through April 30th, you need to park at Realization Point and walk up the road about a three-quarters of a mile before arriving at the trailhead. It’s still gentle, just a little longer and a little chillier.
Artists Point Elopement Cost
It’s delightfully affordable. Just $35 for your marriage license, which you can get from any Colorado county clerk’s office. You don’t need to pay a separate site rental fee for Artists Point.
Your photographer (hi, it’s us!) will take care of the $50 Boulder OSMP permit for professional photography.
Do you need a permit to elope at Artists Point?
For a simple ceremony with 10 people or fewer, you don’t need a special wedding permit. You can’t set up chairs, arches, or any kind of big setup – it’s all about keeping it simple and natural.
Professional photographers do need the OSMP Photography Permit. No stress though – as Boulder elopement photographers we’re already on it.
How to Get Legally Married at Artists Point
Let’s talk about the practical stuff: getting your marriage license. Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think!
In the state of Colorado, you can go to ANY country clerk in the state to obtain your license. If you’re staying in Boulder, the Boulder County Clerk & Recorder Office, located at 1750 33rd St #100, Boulder, CO 80301, is the closest location! As of May 2025, you need to apply online for your marriage license and make an appointment to pick it up in person, so be sure to plan ahead! You’ll need to bring along a form of ID (usually your drivers license or passport), as well as $30 to pay the fee.
In Colorado, you have the option to self-solemnize your marriage, which means you can legally marry yourselves without the need for an officiant or witnesses. It’s a unique and romantic way to tie the knot and perfect for couples who want to exchange vows in a private and intimate setting. Because no witnesses are required, you can even have your dog sign with their paw print in most counties!
After you’ve exchanged vows, be sure to sign your marriage license and submit the signed license to the same Clerk and Recorder’s Office that you picked it up from to make it official.
When Is the Best Time of Year to Elope at Artists Point?
Late spring through fall is the best window for a Boulder elopement. May to early October usually gives clear roads, easy trail access, and gorgeous weather. Summer brings warm days and wildflowers, while fall brings crisp air and those dreamy golden aspen leaves.
The main road, Flagstaff Summit Road, is closed from Realization Point to the Summit where Artists Point is located from November 1st through April 30th.
Winter is still beautiful (and a much more private time to elope at Artists Point) – picture snow-dusted pine trees and soft winter light – but you do need to add an additional three-quarters of a mile hike up the road in the winter. Snow and road closures can make access trickier, so we just need to be flexible if you’re dreaming of a winter elopement.
What is the Best Time of Day to Get Married At Artists Point?
Golden hour, hands down. The light here right before sunset is absolutely ridiculous – in the best way. Everything turns soft and glowy, and the mountains light up in layers of gold and purple.
Early morning can also be stunning if you’re up for it. Plus, mornings offer maximum privacy if you want to be the only people in sight (well, except maybe a chipmunk or two).
Top Tips for Your Artists Point Elopement
Leave No Trace
We’re big fans of keeping this place wild. Stick to established trails, pack out all trash, and let the flowers stay right where they are. Read more about the 7 principles of Leave No Trace.
Sunscreen
Even in the mountains, the sun means business. At this elevation your skin burns much quicker, so be sure to lather up the SPF ahead of time.
Plan to Carpool
The parking lot is small, and it fills up quickly – especially on weekends. Carpooling helps everyone (including other visitors) have a better experience.
Get Your Marriage License
Colorado makes it easy – just grab a license from any county clerk within 35 days of your ceremony. You can even self-solemnize, meaning no officiant is required.
Plan for a Weekday
If you want maximum privacy and ease, weekday elopements are where it’s at. Because you can’t reserve Artists Point and it’s on a first-come-first-serve basis, Friday through Sunday can get busy a difficult to guarantee a space.
Bring Layers
It can be 85 degrees in Boulder and 65 degrees at sunset at Artists Point – on the same day. Having a jacket you love (bonus if it photographs well) means you stay cozy and don’t have to fake a smile through chattering teeth.
Check Road Conditions
Especially if you’re planning a winter or early spring date, always double-check road conditions with COtrip. Remember, it’s an additional three-quarter mile hike up the road from Realization Point to the Artists Point Trailhead from November 1st through April 30th.
Artists Point Wedding Photos
Real Artists Point Elopements
The Proof Is In The Pudding! Check out a few of the Artists Point Elopements We’ve Photographed
Kim & Elliot
Sharon & Al
Christina & Kristin
Jumelia & Kyle
Artists Point Elopement Photographers
Who We Are
We’re two born and raised Coloradoans who have spent our whole lives exploring every corner of this state. Boulder has been a favorite of ours for backpacking, camping, hiking and exploring.
Larissa (left) is the person who always chimes a smiley “hi!” on the hiking trail.
Bailey (right) is the person who will absolutely cry at your wedding.
As Boulder elopement photographers we’ve planned and photographed 400+ elopements and small weddings in Colorado (40+ in the Boulder area alone), collectively been to 46 countries, and agree that cracking a local beer around a campfire is the best way to end a day.
We’re More Than Just Photographers
We’re here to make this process easier than “accidentally” binge-watching the newest season of your favorite show.
Every single elopement package includes:
Artists Point Elopement Packages
What’s Included
4+ Hours of Photography Coverage With A Boulder Elopement Photographer
We intentionally document your day with both digital and film. Includes high-resolution digital images, printing rights, a shareable online gallery, and free album design.
Full Elopement Planning Assistance
When we say we help with it all, we mean it. Location scouting and ideas. Vetted, LGBTQ+ allied, Boulder County wedding vendors who know elopements. Recs for activities to do on your elopement day. Stress-free timeline planning. Planning resources and ideas. Unlimited communication because we never leave you high and dry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Overwhelmed with How To Plan A Colorado Elopement?
Download Our Free Colorado Elopement Planning Guide & Checklist
40+ pages of ideas, tips, and a step-by-step checklist to make your dream elopement come to life.
Are You Freakin’ REady?
We’re 100% here for whatever day you’re dreaming up. Fill out our contact form to start chatting.
Are You Freakin’ REady?
We’re 100% here for whatever day you’re dreaming up. Fill out our contact form to start chatting.
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