How to Plan Your Aspen Elopement
Posted On | December 20, 2024
If you’re dreaming of a unique, intimate wedding day surrounded by nature’s beauty, an Aspen elopement might be exactly what you’re looking for. Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Aspen is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, vibrant culture, and year-round outdoor adventures. And when it comes to elopements, this picturesque paradise offers an unbeatable experience that’s perfect for couples seeking an unforgettable experience!
Why Should You Plan an Aspen Elopement?
Gorgeous Scenery
Aspen is synonymous with natural beauty, boasting majestic mountain peaks, lush aspen groves, and crystal-clear streams at every turn. Imagine exchanging vows against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains or saying “I do” surrounded by vibrant fall foliage!
Endless Adventure Opportunities
For adventurous couples, Aspen is a dream come true. From skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling in the winter to hiking, paragliding, mountain biking, and horseback riding in the summer, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy together.
World-Class Dining and Accommodations
When it comes to dining and accommodations, Aspen is world-renowned as a luxury destination for a reason. From cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious mountain resorts, you’ll find a wide range of options to suit your style and budget. And when it comes to food, Aspen’s culinary scene is second to none, with four Michelin star restaurants alongside cozy local fare. Whether you’re planning an intimate dinner for two or a festive reception with family and friends, Aspen offers plenty of delicious options!
When is the Best Time to Elope in Aspen?
Fall Aspen Elopement
Months: Late September to mid-October
Average High/Low Temperatures: 50°F/30°F
Fall is one of the most popular times to explore Aspen due to the vibrant foliage painting the mountainsides in shades of gold, red, and orange. Expect crisp, cool days perfect for hiking, leaf-peeping, and enjoying the changing colors of the season. Elopements during the fall months can feature stunning backdrops full of fall color, with snow often making its first appearance of the season in late September/early October.
Winter Aspen Elopement
Months: December through March
Average High/Low Temperatures: 35°F/11°F
Winter in Aspen is a true winter wonderland, with snow-capped mountains and lots of opportunity to get outdoors and explore. Expect crisp, cold days perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and cozying up by the fire. Elopements during this time can feature snowy landscapes, with the option for romantic ceremonies in a cozy lodge or even on the slopes themselves.
Spring Aspen Elopement
Months: late March through early June
Average High/Low Temperatures: 55°F/25°F
Spring in Aspen is a mixed bag. March is often the snowiest month with snow showers continuing sometimes into late May. As the snow begins to melt, expect lush greenery and rushing rivers, creating a stunning backdrop for your elopement. Spring weather can be extremely unpredictable, so be prepared for anything from sunshine to rain showers!
Summer Aspen Elopement
Months: Mid-June to early September
Average High/Low Temperatures: 76°F/45°F
Summer in Aspen is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. Expect warm, sunny days perfect for hiking, biking, and exploring the great outdoors. Elopements during the summer months can take advantage of the long daylight hours and mild temperatures, with options for ceremonies in alpine meadows, beside pristine lakes, or even atop a mountain peak. Just be prepared for occasional afternoon thunderstorms, which are common in the high country during the summer months.
Best Places to Elope in Aspen
NOTE: We do our very best to stay updated on the current permit requirements for each location, however you should always verify the current restrictions for each location on your own since they are subject to change! Anytime you venture out in nature, please be sure to respect the land and practice the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace.
Maroon Bells Amphitheatre Elopement
Best Time of Year: June through early October
Maximum number of people: 50
Home of the most photographed peak in the lower 48 states, the Maroon Bells Amphitheatre is one of the most popular venues in the entire state!
Secret Aspen Valley Elopement
Best Time of Year: Available year-round, but might require snowshoes in the winter
Maximum number of people: 10
This location, exclusive to We, the Light couples, is perfect for a small ceremony with up to 10 guests. It has gorgeous mountain views, hillsides covered with Aspens, and a creek that meanders through.
Ashcroft Ghost Town Elopement
Best Time of Year: June through September
Maximum number of people: 70
11 miles south of Aspen, Ashcroft Ghost Town is the perfect spot for history lovers. Located on USFS White River National Forest, it can be reserved for ceremonies June through September and boasts picturesque aspen groves, several historic buildings, and gorgeous views of Castle Creek Valley.
Independence Pass Elopement
Best Time of Year: June through early October
Maximum number of people: 5
Independence Pass connects Aspen to the town of Twin Lakes and is usually open Memorial Day through early November. There are numerous scenic locations along the pass that are perfect for an elopement ranging from easily accessible waterfalls and overlooks to miles-long hikes to alpine lakes. It’s a great choice for couples hoping to explore lots of different scenery in a short amount of time! Check out Tyler & Paige’s Independence Pass elopement for inspiration!
Twin Lakes Elopement
Best Time of Year: June through October
Maximum number of people: 15
While not technically in Aspen, Twin Lakes is a great choice for couples wanting a combination of water, aspens, mountain views, and a bit of history. Share your vows on the lakeshore, or hike to an abandoned lakeside resort! Check out Jess & Ken-Ichi’s two-day Aspen and Twin Lakes elopement for inspiration!
Best Micro Wedding Venues in Aspen
The Little Nell Wedding
Best Time of Year: Spring through Fall
Maximum number of people: 10 to 250
The Little Nell has two different outdoor ceremony spaces, both accessible via gondola. The Wedding Deck has sweeping views of the Elk Mountain Range and is available for summer and fall weddings. The Wedding Overlook sits atop Aspen Mountain and is available for spring, summer, and fall weddings.
Mollie Gibson Park Wedding
Best Time of Year: Available year-round
Maximum number of people: 2 to 100
Located at the base of Smuggler Mountain and with gorgeous views of Aspen Mountain, Mollie Gibson Park can be rented for outdoor ceremonies for up to four hours at a time at least seven days in advance.
Beyul Retreat Wedding
Best Time of Year: Available year-round
Maximum number of people: 25 to 100
Offering all-inclusive service, Beyul Retreat can provide you with the perfect wedding accommodations including full service catering, lodging, ceremony space, reception space, and anything else you need across their 32 acre property! A great option for couples hoping to do minimal planning.
Snowmass Wedding Terrace Wedding
Best Time of Year: Summer and Fall
Maximum number of people: 10 to 146 people
Located on-mountain and accessible by vehicle, the Snowmass Wedding Terrace has views of the valley and forest, as well as lots of foliage.
Best Micro Wedding Reception Venues in Aspen
Rotary Pavilion
Best Time of Year: Memorial Day through Labor Day
Maximum number of people: 10 to 50
Rotary Pavilion’s Website
Hotel Jerome
Best Time of Year: Available year-round
Maximum number of people: 20 to 200
Hotel Jerome’s Website
The Edge Restaurant & Bar
Best Time of Year: Available year-round
Maximum number of people: 10 to 50
The Edge’s Website
Hotel Jerome
Best Time of Year: Available year-round
Maximum number of people: 20 to 200
Hotel Jerome’s Website
Casa Tua
Best Time of Year: Available year-round
Maximum number of people: 10 to 20
Casa Tua’s Website
Betula
Best Time of Year: Available year-round
Maximum number of people: 10 to 30
Betula’s Website
Highlands Alehouse
Best Time of Year: Available year-round
Maximum number of people: 10 to 130
Highland Alehouse’s Website
Pine Creek Cookhouse
Best Time of Year: Available year-round
Maximum number of people: 10 to 160
Pine Creek Cookhouse’s Website
How to Get Married in Aspen
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 Aspen, the Pitkin County Clerk and Recorder will be the closest location! 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 driver’s license or passport) and $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, depending on which county you get your marriage license in, you might even be able to have your dog sign with their paw print!
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!
For more in-depth information on obtaining your marriage license, check out our post on How To Self-Solemnize In Colorado!
Real Aspen Elopements
The Proof Is In The Pudding! Check out a few of the Aspen elopements We’ve Photographed
Nick & Ashley
Jess & Ken-Ichi
Braydon & Emily
Tyler & Paige
Where is the best place to stay in Aspen?
The links below are a great place to start your search for lodging in Aspen, Colorado!
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!
Aspen Elopement Vendors
As you’re planning your Aspen elopement, it’s inevitable that the need for additional vendors will come up. Here are a few of our favorites in the area!
Aspen Wedding Hair & Makeup Artists
Aspen Wedding Private Chefs/Catering
Aspen Wedding Officiant
Aspen Wedding Florists
Aspen Wedding Baker
we’re more than just your photographer
We’re not kidding. We’re here to make this process easier than “accidentally” binge-watching the newest season of your favorite show. Every single elopement package includes:
If it’s on your elopement to-do list, we’re here to help check it off.
Aspen Elopement + Small Wedding Packages
Aspen is THE spot to elope if you want adventure, stunning scenery, and wildflowers galore. We specialize only in Colorado and can help you plan the perfect just-us day or a celebration with up to 30 of your friends/family.
What’s Included
8+ Hours of Photography Coverage
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 and LGBTQ+ allied 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.
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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