Lake Dillon Elopement & Wedding Guide
Posted On | April 30, 2025
A Lake Dillon elopement is perfect for a couple looking for the best of both worlds. It’s surrounded by mountain peaks and tucked between the Colorado towns of Dillon, Silverthorne, and Frisco, and is minutes from Breckenridge—so it’s incredibly scenic and incredibly convenient. Whether you’re dreaming of a peaceful shoreline ceremony, a cozy campground picnic, or something simple after a paddle on the water, a Lake Dillon wedding gives you a laid-back, flexible way to make your wedding day feel like a real reflection of you two.
Lake Dillon Elopement Quick Facts
LOCATION
Located near Breckenridge, Colorado, Lake Dillon is a two-hour drive from the Denver International Airport
COST
You’ll just need a $35 Colorado marriage license. Depending on where you choose to get married and how many people are in your party, permit fees can range from $0 to $250+.
Number of people
Most non-reservable locations around Lake Dillon can easily accommodate groups of up to 10 people. For larger groups, we recommend reserving one of the many scenic locations nearby that can accommodate anywhere from 10 to 50 people.
Accessibility
Lake Dillon is open and accessible year-round, with paved roads, parking lots, and well-maintained trails. Most scenic shoreline locations don’t require a hike—just a short walk from your car.
Elevation
9,017 feet
Where is Lake Dillon?
Lake Dillon (technically Dillon Reservoir, but most people just call it Lake Dillon) is in the heart of Summit County, surrounded by the towns of Dillon, Silverthorne, and Frisco. It’s just minutes from Breckenridge, as well as about 70 miles west of Denver, making it one of the more accessible mountain towns in the state! The lake stretches across over 3,000 acres, with pine forests, aspen groves, open shoreline, and mountain views in every direction. No matter which town you’re based in, you’re never more than a few minutes from the water.
How Much Does It Cost to Get Married at Lake Dillon?
For most couples, the only required cost is your Colorado marriage license, which is $35. If you’re planning a simple ceremony along the shoreline with 10 or fewer people, you usually don’t need a permit or venue fee. For official venues like the Dillon Marina Park Pavilion, Sapphire Point, or Windy Point Group Campground, you’ll need to pay a permit fee—those vary depending on the space and season.
Do You Need a Permit to Elope at Lake Dillon?
You do not need a permit to elope on the shores of Lake Dillon if your group is under 10 people and you’re not setting up any chairs, structures, decorations, or sound systems. If you’re planning a more structured event, wanting to get married at one of the reservable sites, or have a larger group, it’s worth checking with the Dillon Ranger District on any permit requirements. We’re always happy to help our couples navigate those details as well!
Where Can You Get Married at Lake Dillon?
There are two main options: lakeside elopement spots or reservable wedding venues for groups over 10 people. Both have their perks, and it really comes down to what kind of experience you’re looking for!
Lake Dillon Wedding Venues
If you are anticipating having more than 10 guests, we recommend reserving a ceremony site to ensure you have the best experience. Here are a few of our favorite venues on Lake Dillon that can accommodate large groups!
Windy Point Group Campground
Perfect for a cozy group celebration, this spot is reservable mid-May through the end of September. You have the option to reserve up to two locations here. The Forest Loop is perfect for ceremonies overlooking Lake Dillon, while the Lake Loop has an open-air pavilion for a casual reception, as well as access to the shoreline. This location is perfect for up to 50 people.
Sapphire Point Overlook
This location is one of the most popular ceremony spots near Breckenridge for a reason. You’ll need a reservation, but the overlook is iconic and can accommodate up to 30 people year-round.
Frisco Adventure Park
The Frisco Adventure Park has an overlook perfect for ceremonies and a lodge for those wanting an on-site reception, as well as mountain views, open space, and access to the lake. This location is perfect for groups ranging from 10 to 120 people.
Dillon Marina Park Pavilion
Right next to the lake and close to downtown Dillon, the Dillon Marina Park Pavilion is an open-air pavilion that offers panoramic views of the water and Tenmile Range. While it can officially accommodate up to 90 people, we recommend sticking with 50 people for maximum comfort.
Silverthorne Pavilion
The Silverthorne Pavilion is a bit of a more traditional venue that can accommodate up to 175 guests outdoors and 300 guests indoors.
For more information on planning a small wedding near Lake Dillon, check out these helpful guides!
Lake Dillon Elopement Locations
If you’re planning on eloping just the two of you, or up to 10 of your favorite people, Lake Dillon has some really incredible locations that do not require reservations! To help protect these lesser-known locations and practice Leave No Trace, we only share the exact names and coordinates of our favorite hidden shoreline spots with our couples. What we can tell you is that every one of them offers views, privacy, and easy year-round access! Below gives you a taste of what each secret location has to offer.
This scenic location is accessed via a short walk on a gravel path, followed by a few steps down to the shoreline. It’s a favorite year-round, especially at sunrise and sunset!
This location is a favorite for couples wanting to get out on the water since the cove is a bit protected from the sometimes rough waters of the open lake. It’s a bit quieter than other locations and is best in the morning.
This location tends to be one of the busier spots with people paddleboarding and kayaking during the summer, and ice fishing during the winter. However, it’s also one of the most accessible locations and has gorgeous lighting in the afternoon and evening!
For more information on eloping near Lake Dillon, check out these helpful guides!
When Is the Best Time of Year to Get Married at Lake Dillon?
Summer (mid-June to early September)
Summer is one of the most popular times of year to elope at Lake Dillon. Expect long days, warm temperatures, and easy access to every part of the lake. The wildflowers are out, the water is active with boats and paddlers, and you’ve got endless options for post-ceremony adventures. Keep in mind that summer is also peak tourist season, especially on weekends. Popular spots around the lake can get crowded, and afternoon thunderstorms are common, so early mornings or late evenings are your best bet!
Fall (mid-September to early November)
September and early October bring golden aspens, quieter trails, and crisp air. It’s one of the most photogenic times of year, and the summer crowds have mostly cleared out. Weekends do get busy with leaf-peepers, though! This time of year the weather can be unpredictable. Some years, you’ll get sunshine and 60s well into October; other years, it’s snowing by late September. Have a flexible mindset and some backup layer if eloping in Fall!
Winter (mid-November To early April)
)
If you love snow and want a peaceful, frozen landscape, winter around Lake Dillon is dreamy. The lake usually freezes over, the peaks are snow-capped, and it’s incredibly quiet. Keep in mind though that winter is the coldest time of year, with highs often only reaching the teens during the day. Many areas are icy or snow-covered, and you’ll need to be mindful of weather conditions, especially wind chill. You may also need snowshoes or spikes for access.
Spring (mid-April through early June)
Spring is mud season in the mountains. While snow typically sticks around at higher elevations through early June, the snow around Lake Dillon starts melting in mid-April most years. Trails can be slushy, brown, or unpredictable, and early spring can still feel a lot like winter. For those willing to brave the unpredictable weather this time of year, spring can still be a great option since it also tends to be the time of year with the fewest crowds!
What is the Best Time of Day to Elope at Lake Dillon?
Sunrise
Sunrise is a great option if you’re hoping for to avoid crowds or afternoon summer thunderstorms. Keep in mind that it will likely be pretty chilly this time of year, even in the summer!
Sunset
Sunset is absolutely stunning at Lake Dillon. West-facing locations offer beautiful golden light this time of day, while east-facing locations light up with alpenglow just after sunset! Just make sure to check the weather in advance and layer up—it cools off fast once the sun dips.
What Activities Can You Do at Lake Dillon?
Boating
Rent a pontoon, hop on a sailboat, or just go for a quiet paddle. The marinas in Dillon and Frisco have lots of boat rental options.
Picnic
Many spots around the lake have picnic tables or grassy areas—perfect for post-ceremony snacks or a champagne toast.
Fishing
If this is something you love doing together, bring your rods and your fishing license! The lake is well-stocked and peaceful, especially early in the morning.
SUP/Kayaking
Bring your own or rent at the marina. Paddling out for sunset or first light is one of our favorite ways to start or end the day!
Hiking
There are tons of trails around the lake, from flat shoreline strolls to steeper climbs with lake views from above.
Stargazing
With very little light pollution, Lake Dillon is an incredible spot for stargazing—especially on moonless nights.
Top Tips for Your Lake Dillon Elopement
Leave No Trace
This area gets a lot of love from both locals and visitors. Please help us keep it clean and healthy by following Leave No Trace and packing everything out, staying on established paths, and avoiding any damage to the landscape.
Prepare for High Altitude
At over 9,000 feet, Lake Dillon can still affect you if you’re not used to the elevation. Hydrate, take it slow, and spend a day or two before your wedding day acclimating if possible.
Sunscreen + Bug Spray
Don’t skip either. Even on cloudy days, the sun is strong, and mosquitoes tend to come out in the evenings.
Plan for a Weekday
If you want more privacy, shoot for Monday–Thursday. Lake Dillon gets busy on weekends, especially in the summer!
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
You might see moose, deer, elk, chipmunks, foxes, or birds around the lake. Give them plenty of space, and never feed them.
Real Lake Dillon Weddings
The Proof Is In The Pudding! Check out a few of the Lake Dillon Weddings We’ve Photographed
Kacey + Sarah
Leah + Stanley
Jordan + Kellen
Caitlin + Sean
Lake Dillon Wedding Photos
How to Get Legally Married at Lake Dillon
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 Lake Dillon?
The closest towns to Lake Dillon are 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!
Lake Dillon 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:
Lake Dillon 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
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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