Hoosier Pass Elopement Guide
Posted On | April 29, 2025
If you are considering a Hoosier Pass elopement, here is everything you need to know to make your wedding dream possible!
Hoosier Pass Elopement Quick Facts
Why Couples Love Hoosier Pass
Hoosier Pass offers some of the most dramatic views you can find without a long hike. With easy access, no permits for small groups, and the freedom to self-solemnize, a Hoosier Pass elopement is about as straightforward—and stunning—as it gets.
COST
Just $35 for your marriage license! No other fees or permits are needed for a small group.
Number of people
Up to 10 people total
LOCATION
Located near Breckenridge, Colorado, Hoosier Pass is a two-hour drive from the Denver International Airport
Coordinates
Elevation
11,542 feet
Accessibility
There’s a paved highway all the way to the summit. A small pull-off area serves as parking with the option to hike anywhere between 0.2 miles and 2.8 miles to find a spot you like! Due to the incline and uneven terrain, this location is not suitable for those with limited mobility.
Where is Hoosier Pass Located?
Hoosier Pass is just south of Breckenridge, Colorado, right off Highway 9, straddling the line between Summit and Park Counties. It’s only about a 25-minute drive from downtown Breckenridge, which makes it an easy spot to reach while still feeling like you’re in nature. You can easily get access to sweeping mountain views without needing to hike for more than 20 minutes!
How Much Does It Cost to Get Married at Hoosier Pass?
If you’re eloping with 10 people or fewer, the only required cost to make it official is your marriage license. Colorado doesn’t require any officiant, and there are no reservation fees, parking passes, or permit costs for small groups that are not bringing any props.
Do You Need a Permit to Elope at Hoosier Pass?
We recommend limiting your Hoosier Pass elopement to no more than 10 people, and avoiding the use of chairs or structures (like an arch). If you stick with this plan, no permit is required.
If your group is larger or you’re planning to bring in seating, decor, structures, or vendors outside of your photographer or videographer, that’s where a permit might be required. We always recommend reaching out to the National Forest Service for the most up-to-date information on permit requirements! We’re always happy to help our couples navigate those details, as well.
Can You Drive Up Hoosier Pass?
Yes! The parking area for Hoosier Pass is accessed by a paved mountain road—Highway 9—that’s open year-round, weather permitting. In the summer, any car can handle the drive. In winter, the highway is plowed regularly but icy conditions and blowing snow are common. If you’re planning a winter Hoosier Pass elopement, make sure your vehicle is equipped for mountain driving. 4WD or AWD, snow tires, or traction devices are crucial in winter and spring, and can actually be required by law if conditions warrant it!
Do You Have to Hike for a Hoosier Pass Elopement?
While the parking area is easily accessible, we do recommend hiking at least 10 to 15 minutes for the best views and the most privacy, as the parking area is located directly next to a busy highway. Depending on the time of year and how adventurous you’re feeling, you have the option to hike anywhere from 0.2 miles to get away from the highway, to 2.8 miles if you’d like to do the full Hoosier Pass Loop! Think of it as a plan-your-own-adventure type location!
When is the Best Time of Year to Get Married at Hoosier Pass?
Summer & Fall
Late June through early October
Summer & Fall are hands down the best time of year to elope on Hoosier Pass. This time of year the trails are usually clear of snow, the weather is more stable, and wildflowers or fall colors are usually out in full force. Be aware that there are often afternoon storms in the summer months, and snow often arrives as early as mid-September, so you’ll want to be prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws at you!
Winter
Mid-October through early-April
Winter at Hoosier Pass is another beautiful time to elope, especially if you’re looking to avoid crowds and willing to snowshoe! Hoosier Pass can be avalanche-prone and extremely windy this time of year, so it’s important to be ready with backup plans and always check trail conditions, the weather forecast, and the avalanche forecast before heading out.
Spring
Early-April through mid-June
Spring on Hoosier Pass is pretty unpredictable. Weather can range anywhere from white-out blizzard conditions to warm, sunny days with muddy trails. Snow tends to stick around until mid-June. This tends to be the least popular time to elope on Hoosier Pass, but could be a great option if you’re willing to be flexible with your plans!
What is the Best Time of Day to Elope at Hoosier Pass?
Sunrise or Early Morning
Early mornings are the safest bet for clear skies and calmer conditions. Sunrise at Hoosier Pass is absolutely worth the early wake-up call—soft light, gorgeous alpenglow, fewer people, and a quiet that feels like you have the whole world to yourselves.
Late Afternoon or Evening
Afternoon thunderstorms are common, but they typically don’t last more than a half hour or so. The lighting in the afternoon and evening can be gorgeous, so if you’re planning for later in the day, we recommend checking the radar and having a backup plan or some flexibility in your timeline just in case!
Top Tips for Your Hoosier Pass Elopement
Leave No Trace
The alpine environment around Hoosier Pass is delicate. Please be sure to Leave No Trace by staying on established trails or durable surfaces, packing out everything you bring in, and leaving the area better than you found it. It’s part of protecting this place for generations to come!
Prepare for High Altitude
At over 11,500 feet, altitude sickness is no joke. Give yourselves (and your guests!) a day or two to acclimate if you’re coming from lower elevations. Drink water, go slow, and don’t push it.
Sunscreen + Bug Spray
The sun is stronger up here and it’s easy to get sunburned year-round. In the summer, mosquitoes can be extremely active as well! In order to stay comfortable all day long, plan on packing both and reapplying often!
Plan for a Weekday
Hoosier Pass is a popular stop for locals and tourists alike. If you want a little more solitude (and easier parking), aim for a weekday!
Check Current Trail Conditions and Weather
Weather at Hoosier Pass changes fast, and in winter, avalanche danger is real. In summer, lightning and fast-moving storms are common in the afternoon. Always check trail conditions and the forecast, and bring layers even if it looks warm when you leave town.
Respect Wildlife
Deer, foxes, and marmots are common up here, along with the occasional moose. Give them space, keep food packed away, and don’t try to feed or interact with them. You’re in their home.
Real Hoosier Pass Weddings
The Proof Is In The Pudding! Check out a few of the Breckenridge Weddings We’ve Photographed
Anne & Danny
Samantha & Zach
Grace & Brandon
Matt & Natalie
Hoosier Pass Wedding Photos
How to Get Legally Married at Hoosier Pass
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 Breckenridge, the Summit County Clerk & Recorder will be the closest location! As of April 2025, appointments are still required for marriage license applications, 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.
Where is the best place to stay Near Hoosier Pass?
The closest towns to Hoosier Pass are Breckenridge, Dillon, Silverthorne, 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!
Hoosier Pass Wedding 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:
Hoosier Pass Elopement & Small Wedding 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
hen 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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