Blue Lakes Elopement Guide
Posted On | April 30, 2025
Tucked in between towering peaks near Breckenridge, Colorado, a Blue Lakes elopement is a great choice for a couple wanting stunning views without having to hike. The alpine water, the sweeping mountain backdrops, the wildlife—it’s the kind of spot that feels like a secret, even if it’s not. While you can no longer hold a ceremony here as of July 2023, Blue Lakes is still an incredible place for portraits, a first look, or a quiet moment to soak in the day together.
Blue Lakes Elopement Quick Facts
NOTE: You can no longer hold a ceremony here as of July 2023. However, portraits are still allowed!
LOCATION
Located near Breckenridge, Colorado, Blue Lakes is a two-hour drive from the Denver International Airport
COST
There’s no permit or fee required to visit Blue Lakes for photos, as long as you’re not holding a ceremony.
Number of people
Since ceremonies are no longer allowed here, there’s no official guest cap. But if you’re visiting for portraits, we recommend keeping your group small—no more than 6 people—to minimize impact and preserve the space.
Accessibility
The road to Blue Lakes is a short but steep drive south of Breckenridge. It’s a rough dirt road, but typically passable in summer with most vehicles. The road typically closes around mid to late November and usually doesn’t open until late May or early June, depending on snow.
Elevation
11,748 feet
Coordinates
Where is Blue Lakes Located?
Blue Lakes sits at the base of Quandary Peak, just a short drive from Breckenridge, CO, in Summit County. It’s about 90 minutes from Denver and nestled deep in a rugged alpine basin. The area includes two main lakes (Lower and Upper), two alpine waterfalls, and a rocky overlook—so even a short visit can feel like you’ve stepped into the middle of a high mountain dream.
There are many “Blue Lakes” in Colorado, including this famous one near Telluride! Be sure to double-check which Blue Lakes is being referred to when researching your options!
Can You Get Married at Blue Lakes?
As of July 7, 2023, all weddings – including elopements – are no longer allowed at Blue Lakes. This change was made to protect the landscape and wildlife, and it’s something we fully support.
However, you can still take portraits so long as your group remains small—so if you’re dreaming of that iconic alpine lake backdrop, we can still build it into your timeline for photos, a first look, or a quiet hike together.
Where Can You Get Married Near Blue Lakes?
There are still plenty of incredible ceremony spots nearby—just a short drive from Blue Lakes and equally stunning in their own right. We help our couples pick the best one for their vision, group size, and logistics!
Hoosier Pass
Just a 10 minute drive from Blue Lake, Hoosier Pass is a scenic option with a high-alpine vibe and plenty of space to spread out. Ideal for couples who want to feel like they’re really out there without needing to hike more than 20 minutes.
Loveland Pass
This location offers a dramatic mountain pass with wide-open views and golden light at both sunrise and sunset. It’s easily accessible by car and has a “top of the world” feel.
Lake Dillon
The lake offers shoreline views, forest paths, and big open skies. It’s beautiful at any time of year and works well for couples who want something calm and peaceful.
Sapphire Point
The lake offers shoreline views, forest paths, and big open skies. It’s beautiful at any time of year and works well for couples who want something calm and peaceful.
Boreas Pass
Great for fall color, golden hour light, and a quieter mountain atmosphere. The road is accessible by in summer and fall, or on foot in the winter and spring!
For more help finding the perfect elopement location, check out these helpful guides!
Where Can You Take Photos at Blue Lakes?
Even without a ceremony, Blue Lakes has so many beautiful spots for portraits, quiet moments, and exploring together. To help protect these lesser-known locations and practice Leave No Trace, we only share the exact names and coordinates of our favorite hidden spots with our couples. What we can tell you is that every one of them offers stunning views! Below gives you a taste of what each secret location has to offer.
Secret Blue Lake Waterfall
This tucked-away waterfall offers a little more privacy and calm—perfect for a peaceful first look or romantic portraits.
Not-So-Secret Blue Lake Waterfall
A stunning cascade with dramatic views that requires an easy, 1-mile round trip hike to get to.
Lower Blue Lake
Right at the base of the parking area, this lake gives you that classic alpine view—turquoise water, rock fields, and rugged peaks all around.
Blue Lake Overlook
If you’re willing to hike about 20 minutes up the road from the parking area, you can get an expansive view of both lakes and the valley below.
Upper Blue Lake
Reaching the upper lake takes a little effort—about 1.5 miles round trip on a moderately steep trail. But if you’re up for the hike, the views are spectacular and much more private!
What Are the Rules for Eloping at Blue Lakes?
No Ceremonies Allowed
As of July 2023, all elopements, weddings, and ceremonies are prohibited. This includes exchanging vows, setting up decor, or inviting guests for a formal event.
Follow Leave No Trace
This area is fragile and heavily trafficked. Please plan to Leave No Trace by sticking to trails, not disturbing the terrain, and avoiding stepping into wildflower areas or disturbing the shoreline.
Respect Wildlife
You’re almost guaranteed to see some kind of wildlife here—especially mountain goats, pika, marmots, moose, and foxes. Please keep a safe distance and never feed or approach them. It’s for their safety and yours.
When is the Best Time of Year to Visit Blue Lakes?
The best time to visit Blue Lakes is late June through early October. This is the window when the road is open and the area is at its most accessible. Snow may linger on the trail into late June, especially if you’re hiking to the upper lake. July and August are the most lush and green, while September and October bring changing colors and crisp mountain air.
The road to Blue Lakes usually closes in November and doesn’t reopen until late May, depending on snowfall. Even when the road is technically open, it can still be snowy and muddy—so check local conditions before heading out.
What is the Best Time of Day to Visit Blue Lakes?
Sunrise
The quietest time to visit. You’ll likely have the place to yourselves, and the light is beautiful as it hits the western peaks. Mornings are also cooler and less prone to thunderstorms.
Sunset
The lighting here at sunset is incredible, with the surrounding peaks catching that soft pink alpenglow. It’s more popular than sunrise, so don’t expect total solitude, but it’s still absolutely worth it.
Top Tips for Your Blue Lakes Elopement
Leave No Trace
This is a high-traffic, high-impact area—so it’s extra important to Leave No Trace. Stay on designated trails, pack out everything, and avoid stepping on vegetation.
Prepare for High Altitude
At nearly 12,000 feet, Blue Lakes is no joke. Even short walks can feel tough if you’re not acclimated. Drink water, take breaks, and be gentle with your body.
Sunscreen + Bug Spray
The sun is intense at high altitude, even when it’s cool. Bring SPF, and don’t forget bug spray—especially in summer months when the water attracts mosquitoes.
Plan for a Weekday
Like most beautiful places in Colorado, Blue Lakes sees heavy weekend traffic. If you can, plan your visit midweek for the best chance at avoiding crowds.
Check Weather Forecasts
Afternoon thunderstorms are common in the summer, but they tend to pass quickly. Check the forecast the morning of and bring layers—mountain weather moves fast!
Respect Wildlife
The animals here are part of what makes this place magical. More often than not, a herd of mountain goats can be seen exploring the area. You are also likely to see pika, marmots, chipmunks, birds, and even the occasional moose! While wildlife is always exciting to see, be sure to give them the space and respect they deserve. Keep food packed away, stay quiet, and never chase or crowd them for photos.
Real Blue Lake Elopements
The Proof Is In The Pudding! Check out a few of the Blue Lakes Weddings We’ve Photographed
Matt & Natalie
Leslie & Nathan
Lindsay & Frank
Laura & Paula
Blue Lakes Elopement Photos
Where is the best place to stay Near Blue Lakes?
The closest towns to Blue Lakes are Blue River, Dillon, Silverthorne, Breckenridge, and Frisco. The links below are a great place to start your search for lodging!
Disclaimer: Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you if you decide to purchase through one of our recommended partners. We would never recommend anything we don’t use ourselves!
Blue Lakes Elopement Photographers
Who We Are
We’re two born and raised Coloradoans who have spent our whole lives exploring every corner of this state. Summit County has been a favorite of ours for backpacking, camping, hiking and kayaking.
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.
Together we’ve planned and photographed 400+ elopements and small weddings in Colorado (50+ in the Breckenridge 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:
Blue Lakes Elopement Packages
What’s Included
4+ Hours of Photography Coverage With A Breckenridge 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 Small WEdding Planning Assistance
When we say we help with it all, we mean it. Location scouting and ideas. Vetted, LGBTQ+ allied, Summit 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.
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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