Eloping sounds incredible!
But how do you elope IN the san juan mountains?

San Juan Mountains Wedding & Elopement Guide

A person with long hair and glasses, wearing a green sweater, sits in front of a plant with a neutral-colored wall in the background.

Hey! I’m Maddie Mae—and for the last 14 years I’ve traveled to 40 countries, all 7 continents, and planned & photographed over 300 elopements all over the world.

I’ve seen the world’s most incredible elopement locations firsthand, and I’m excited to share them with you!

I’ve seen the San Juan Mountains most incredible elopement locations firsthand, and I’m excited to share them with you!

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Map view

One look at the San Juan Mountains and you can easily tell why parts of this area are known as the Switzerland of America. Rocky, jagged peaks rise directly out of rolling green valleys, all accessible by some of the most intricate 4×4 roads in the country. 

Hey! I’m Maddie Mae. And as a Colorado born-and-raised local, I come back to this corner of the state absolutely every chance I get, and I’ve been photographing weddings here for over a decade now! Even after helping 150+ couples elope in Colorado alone, this is still one of my favorite regions to take folks to. That’s why Telluride (my favorite San Juan Mountains town) is #2 on my list of best places to elope in the world!

(Psst! Need more help with knowing where to start with eloping? Check out my guide here!) 

This guide to the San Juan Mountains will take you through everything you need to know to have the best wedding day in one of the most gorgeous places on Earth—from permits, to the best spots for photos, to how to time it, and more!

Reasons to Elope in the San Juan Mountains

Stunning scenery

Perhaps the most obvious perk—the beautiful surroundings! It’s the main deciding factor for most people who get married here.

Easy access to views

Because this whole area used to be used for gold mining, there are 4X4 paths directly onto high mountain passes, no hiking required. You can also take the train or a gondola!

Great towns

Towns like Ouray, Durango, Ridgway, Silverton, and Telluride draw visitors from all over with great amenities, excellent restaurants, historic charm, and proximity to nature.

Activity options

If you can name it, there’s a solid chance you can do it here; skiing, mountain biking, snowshoeing, 4X4 driving, hiking, river floating, stargazing, and so much more is at your fingertips.

Free ceremony locations

There are SO many breathtaking spots in the San Juans where you can have your ceremony, no permit or fee needed.

A bride and groom hold hands while walking on a dirt mountain path with a Jeep behind them, surrounded by tall, snow-capped peaks—capturing the adventurous spirit of how to elope in breathtaking landscapes.

Reasons Not to Elope in the San Juan Mountains

You don’t do well at altitude

Pretty much all of the towns through the San Juans sit between ~7,000 and ~9,000 feet in elevation, so if you get altitude sickness easily, keep that in mind.

You aren’t willing to make a back-up plan

Weather anywhere in the mountains (in any place!) can change on a dime, but especially in Colorado. If it’ll stress you out to build a back-up plan (just in case!), you may want to think it over.

Crowds can happen

If you know when & where to go, you can usually avoid them! But this is a popular destination year-round for visitors.

A person with braided hair, wearing glasses and a tan coat, stands outdoors holding a camera. They are smiling and the background is blurred, giving a sense of being in a natural setting.

If you’re still on the fence about having a wedding versus going for an elopement, I’ve got you!

You can head to my pros and cons of eloping here.. I’ve photographed 500 person weddings and 2 person elopements, so I’m well-versed in the pros and cons of both

When is the Best Time to Elope in the San Juan Mountains

The best time to elope in the San Juan Mountains  is the last week in September. You’ll find weather that isn’t too cold, mountain passes that haven’t been covered in snow yet, and the most vivid fall colors imaginable! 

In general, the weather in this region is at its best June through early October. But there’s still plenty of reason to visit in the winter! Ski resorts around here draw visitors all season long, so if you’re the type to get cozy by the fire, there’s great places for that, too.

Bar and line graph showing monthly average low and high temperatures (in °F) and precipitation (in inches) for the San Juan Mountains—a perfect resource if you’re planning how to elope during the region’s summer peaks, when precipitation is highest.

San Juan Mountains in Spring

March / April / May

  • Snow in the early months – March and April are some of the snowiest months in Colorado, so you’re likely to still find thick snowpack and lush ski runs.
  • Reduced crowds – Many visitors to the region come during the height of summer, so this is a great time to see the sights without as many people around!
  • Snowy peaks in the background – Especially as the month of May pushes in, you can find green hills with beautiful jagged snowy peaks in the distance, which is a breathtaking sight
  • Not everything will be open – Some tourist driven businesses aren’t open in the off-season and you may not have access to all of the mountain passes you’d like yet.

March

April

May

Average days of precipitation

5.6

5.6

4.8

Average High temperature (°F)

42

49

59

Average Low temperature (°F)

23

29

37

A bride and groom embrace on a mountain ridge at sunset, with dramatic snow-capped peaks behind them—capturing the essence of how to elope in nature. She wears a flower crown and white gown; he is in a dark suit against rugged slopes.

San Juan Mountains in Summer

JUNE / JULY / AUGUST

  • Temperate weather – The summer months are some of the best weather you’ll find in this region, with comfortable highs in the low 70’s. 
  • Wildflowers in season – In July this whole area is bursting with gorgeous alpine blooms. The second half of the month is usually the best time!
  • Open mountain passes – 4X4 roads are clear of snowpack, summits are climbable, and the trails in the area are at their very best for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
  • Possibly crowded – Because summer is so enjoyable here, most visitors come during this season, either camping or staying in nearby towns. If you want to see the best sights, you’ll need to get there early.

June

July

August

Average days of precipitation

3.3

8.4

9.8

Average High temperature (°F)

69

73

70

Average Low temperature (°F)

45

50

49

A groom in a vest and tie dips and kisses a bride in a white dress amid wildflowers, with rugged mountains behind—a picture-perfect moment for couples seeking inspiration on how to elope.

San Juan Mountains in Fall

September / october / november

  • Gorgeous fall colors – Autumn is easily the best time to get married in the San Juans, and that’s because of the stunning fall foliage. Visit during its peak around the end of September!
  • Reduced crowds – After Labor Day, crowds go way down in this region! You’ll be left with only local visitors while still having so many mountain spots wide open.
  • Colder temperatures – Even though the snow hasn’t settled in yet, the temperatures drop quickly over the fall months. Expect chilly highs and lows below freezing.
  • All 4 seasons in October – If you know where to go (I can help you out!), you can get snowy peaks, green plants, and bright fall leaves all in one photo.

September

October

November

Average days of precipitation

7.7

5.9

5.1

Average High temperature (°F)

64

54

43

Average Low temperature (°F)

42

33

24

A bride and groom walk hand in hand through a grassy field surrounded by tall yellow autumn trees, with rocky mountains rising in the background—capturing the magic of how to elope in nature’s embrace.

San Juan Mountains in Winter

December / January / February

  • Ski season in full swing – If you two are winter sports people, there’s few better places to be. You’ll find world-class skiing here and bustling, well-kept runs as well as options for cross-country skiing.
  • No peak or 4X4 access – Everything is covered in a thick blanket of snow by the time this season rolls around, so don’t expect to get to some of the high-altitudes that other seasons can afford!
  • Great cozy vibes – If you want your wedding to include snuggling up by the fire, sipping at hot chocolate, and building snowmen outside, this is a perfect option.
  • Travel may be difficult – The unpredictability of winter storms means that traveling into the area can be a gamble, so it’s best to be prepared for absolutely anything.

December

January

February

Average days of precipitation

4.7

4.6

4.9

Average High temperature (°F)

35

35

36

Average High temperature (°F)

17

15

18

A bride and groom stand together on a snowy mountain slope, surrounded by pine trees, with snow-covered peaks in the background—a dreamy scene for those seeking inspiration on how to elope amidst wintry beauty. Snow is gently falling around them.

Where to Elope in the San Juan Mountains

What type of location are you looking for?

Ceremony & Wedding Photos

Best Hiking Trails

Wedding & Reception Venues

Best Places for a Ceremony & Wedding Photos in the San Juan Mountains

Red Mountain Pass

A bride and groom stand together on a rocky mountain slope, surrounded by dramatic red and green peaks under a cloudy sky—an inspiring scene for couples seeking ideas on how to elope in a vast, scenic landscape.

This stretch of the Million Dollar Highway (named after its views) is breathtaking in every sense, climbing up over 11,000 feet in altitude. It’s also part of the San Juan Skyway!

Views & Scenery: Mountains, bright red rock, alpine lakes, fall foliage
Accessible/Open Dates:  Open year round but subject to close in heavy snowfall
Best Months to Get Married Here: June — September
Driving there: Road is drivable by passenger vehicles but is very steep and has switchbacks with no guardrails
Privacy Estimate: Moderate
Dogs Allowed: Yes, on a leash
Mobility Impairment Accessible: No

Bathrooms Nearby: No (unless you are getting married at Red Mountain Alpine Lodge)
Driving distance from closest town: Located on US 550 between Ouray and Silverton
My favorite activities to do here: Sight-see
Top Nearby Trails / Overlooks:

CHeck out more details in my red mountain pass Guide

Ouray, Colorado

A bride and groom stand on a large rock in a mountain meadow at sunset, surrounded by wildflowers and dramatic rocky peaks—showing how to elope in the heart of nature’s beauty.

Ouray is one of my favorite mountain towns of all time. There’s a reason it’s known as the Switzerland of America! Think box canyons, hot springs, great 4X4 roads, and world-class climbing destinations.

Best Months to Get Married Here: July — September
My favorite activities to do here: Hike, 4X4 drive, soak in hot springs, spot wildflowers
Top nearby trails/overlooks:

My favorite places to eat in Ouray:

Best places to stay in Ouray

Ophir Pass, Colorado

A bride and groom stand on a rocky path at sunset, her dress flowing in the wind—a stunning scene for those seeking inspiration on how to elope. A black Jeep sits nearby as mountains rise majestically in the background.

This beginner-friendly 4X4 road takes you up to over 12,500 feet so that you can be totally surrounded by ridges, peaks, and valleys.

Views & Scenery: San Juan Mountains
Accessible/Open Dates: June — October (weather-dependent)
Best Months to Get Married Here: Late June — September
Driving there: High-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle recommended
Privacy Estimate: Moderate, depending on the time of year
Dogs Allowed: Yes, on a leash
Mobility Impairment Accessible: Yes if you are staying in the car, terrain outside of the car can be very rocky and steep
Bathrooms Nearby: No

Driving distance from closest town: Connects Telluride & Silverton
My favorite activities to do here: Hiking, off-roading
Top Nearby Trails / Overlooks:

CHeck out more details in my OPHIR pass Guide

Ridgway, Colorado

Ridgway is the perfect gateway to the nature in this area, including Black Canyon of the Gunnison, the San Juan Mountains, the Uncompahgre National Forest, and great 4X4 basins!

Best Months to Get Married Here: July — September
My favorite activities to do here: Hike, soak in hot springs, stargaze, 4X4 drive
Top nearby trails/overlooks:

My favorite places to eat in Ridgway:

Best places to stay in Ridgway

CHeck out more details in my ridgway wedding Guide

Imogene Pass, Colorado

A bride in a white dress holds a bouquet while walking hand-in-hand with her groom across a rocky mountainside, capturing the spirit of how to elope amid dramatic, cloudy peaks in the background.

This pass is a 4X4 road that reaches up over 13,000 feet in elevation. This is one of the highest roads in the state and shows off incredible mountainside views the entire way.

Views & Scenery: Ghost towns, bridges, cliffs, mountains
Accessible/Open Dates: July — September
Best Months to Get Married Here: July — September
Driving there: This is a 12 mile 4X4 road that connects Telluride and Ouray, high-clearance is recommended
Privacy Estimate: Busy
Dogs Allowed: Yes, on a leash. Make sure your pup is safely secured in the vehicle.
Mobility Impairment Accessible: Yes if you are staying in the car, terrain outside of the car can be very rocky and steep
Bathrooms Nearby: No

Driving distance from closest town: Telluride trailhead is located 0.5 miles north of town along Tomboy Road, Ouray entrance is along Camp Bird Road off of Highway 550 about a mile south of town (I would recommend starting from Telluride)e
My favorite activities to do here: 4X4 drive and see mountains
Top Nearby Trails / Overlooks:

  • Imogene Pass — 17.9 miles point-to-point with 4,770 feet of elevation gain

Red Mountain 3, Colorado

A bride and groom stand together outdoors on a snowy mountain slope, surrounded by evergreen trees and dramatic cliffs, embodying the spirit of how to elope in the breathtaking wilderness with a misty mountain peak in the background.

Named for its color and situated between Silverton and Ouray, this privately owned mountain is an epic destination in southwest Colorado!

Views & Scenery: 360 views of the San Juan Mountains
Accessible/Open Dates: Mid-May — September via Colorado West Jeeps only
Best Months to Get Married Here: June — September
Driving there: Privately owned 4×4 road with high clearance vehicle required
Privacy Estimate: Private
Dogs Allowed: Yes, on leash—must check with Colorado West Jeeps in advance

Mobility Impairment Accessible: No
Bathrooms Nearby: No
Driving distance from closest town: 12 miles from Silverton
My favorite activities to do here: 4X4, hike
Top Nearby Trails / Overlooks:

  • Red Mountain Number 3 5.4 mile out-and-back
  • Red Mountain N3 Trail 4.2 mile out-and-back
CHeck out more details in my Red Mountain 3 Elopement Guide

Black Bear Pass, Colorado

A blue off-road vehicle climbs a rugged dirt trail in a mountainous landscape, like the perfect backdrop for couples seeking how to elope, with another vehicle following amid steep peaks and green slopes beneath a cloudy sky.

This is a stunning pass, but also can be a nailbiter on the downward slope into Telluride. Hire a driver if you’re considering eloping here so that you can sit back and enjoy!

Views & Scenery: Mountains, forests, cliffs
Accessible/Open Dates: July — October, depending on the weather
Driving there: 9.79 mile road connecting Red Mountain Pass and Telluride—can only be driven from east to west, ending in Telluride by Bridal Veil Falls.  I only recommend eloping here if you hire a professional driver from a local tour company who is experienced with this pass.
Best Months to Get Married Here: July through September
Privacy Estimate: Moderate
Dogs Allowed: Yes, on a leash

Mobility Impairment Accessible: Yes, this is a 4X4 route so you remain in the car. But if you are getting out, the terrain is rocky and hard to navigate.
Bathrooms Nearby: Yes, at the trail end in Telluride
Driving distance from closest town: Trailhead is located 10 miles north from Silverton along Highway 550
My favorite activities to do here: 4X4 drive, nature observe
Top Nearby Trails / Overlooks: You’re on it!

Silverton, Colorado

Two women in flowing white dresses walk through green shrubs on a mountain slope, with dramatic rocky peaks and a cloudy sky in the background. A brown dog walks beside them, capturing the wild beauty of how to elope in nature’s embrace.

This is a super cute town drenched in historic charm with its own scenic train that cuts through the mountains. Silverton is 4X4 central, especially in the fall!

Best Months to Get Married Here: July — September
My favorite activities to do here:  4X4 drive, hike, ski, kayak, train ride
Top nearby trails/overlooks:

My favorite places to eat in Ridgway:

Best places to stay in Ridgway

CHeck out more details in my SILVERTON Elopement Guide

Yankee Boy Basin

A couple learns how to elope as they dance in a field of wildflowers near a lake, with rocky mountains in the background and a clear sky at sunset.

Just outside of Ouray and known for its wildflowers, Yankee Boy Basin is a jaw-dropping 4X4 road destination!

Views & Scenery: Colorful mountains, dramatic cliffsides, waterfalls, wildflowers, fall foliage
Accessible/Open Dates: Late May — Late October, depending on the weather
Best Months to Get Married Here: Mid-July — mid-August for peak wildflower season and late September to early October for peak fall foliage
Driving there: High-clearance 4WD vehicle
Privacy Estimate: Moderate
Dogs Allowed: Yes, on a leash
Mobility Impairment Accessible: No
Bathrooms Nearby: No

Driving distance from closest town: 9.5 miles from Ouray
My favorite activities to do here: 4X4, hike, picnic, and observe the seasons
Top Nearby Trails / Overlooks:

CHeck out more details in my YANKEE BOY BASIN Elopement Guide

Ice Lake

A bride and groom hold hands and smile while walking near a lakeshore, surrounded by rugged mountains and traces of snow—a serene outdoor moment that perfectly captures the spirit of how to elope in nature’s beauty.

This is a pretty serious trail, but it’s gorgeous from start to finish. Start before sunrise to get to the best views before the crowds!

Views & Scenery: Mountain, forest, alpine lake, waterfalls
Accessible/Open Dates: Year-round, but conditions are challenging in the winter
Best Months to Get Married Here: July — September
Driving there: Doable in a passenger vehicle but 4X4/AWD recommended
Privacy Estimate: Busy
Dogs Allowed: Yes, on a leash—but please keep your pup’s stamina in mind

Mobility Impairment Accessible:  No
Bathrooms Nearby: No
Driving distance from closest town: 8.6 miles from Silverton
My favorite activities to do here:  Hike, camp, relax
Top Nearby Trails / Overlooks:

CHeck out more details in my ICE LAKE Elopement Guide

Molas Pass

A bride and groom embrace in a grassy meadow surrounded by wildflowers and evergreen trees, showing how to elope beautifully with mountains rising in the background under a cloudy sky.

Sitting at over 10,000 ft in elevation and part of the San Juan Skyway, Molas Pass is a gorgeous stretch of the Million Dollar Highway that offers great views with less risk than Red Mountain Pass.

Views & Scenery: Mountains, forests, valleys, fall colors
Accessible/Open Dates: Year-round, but may close in heavy snow
Best Months to Get Married Here: June — September
Driving there: 2WD accessible, located along Highway 550
Privacy Estimate: Moderate
Dogs Allowed: Yes, on a leash if you are out of the care. Make sure pups are properly secured in the car while driving.
Mobility Impairment Accessible: Varies. Paved roads are accessible, but trails may have loose or rough terrain and be difficult for mobility devices. Scenic overlooks have better accessibility, including ramps.
Bathrooms Nearby: Yes, pit toilets at Molas Pass Scenic Overlook.

Driving distance from closest town: 7 miles south of Silverton down Highway 550
My favorite activities to do here: Drive, hike, ride the train
Top Nearby Trails / Overlooks:

Alpine Loop

A black Jeep drives up a winding dirt road through green pine-covered mountains under a partly cloudy sky, capturing the spirit of adventure and freedom found in discovering how to elope amid breathtaking landscapes.

This is one of the most beautiful networks of 4X4 roads in the world, connecting three mountain towns (Ouray, Silverton, & Lake City) with 63 miles of road. This is a great option to be totally immersed among 14ers!

Views & Scenery: Mountains, valleys, fall leaves, wildflowers
Accessible/Open Dates: July — September
Best Months to Get Married Here: Late July — Early September
Driving there: All 4X4 roads, some require high-clearance
Privacy Estimate: Moderate
Dogs Allowed: Yes, on a leash
Mobility Impairment Accessible: If you are staying in the vehicle, yes. If you are getting out, the terrain may be very uneven and rocky

Bathrooms Nearby: Yes, pit toilets. They are marked on this map.
Driving distance from closest town: Ouray entrance is 4 miles south of town down Highway 550, Silverton entrance is about 8 miles east on County Road 2, and the Lake City entrance is at County Road 20 and 1st street on the western edge of town.
My favorite activities to do here: 4X4 drive, see ghost towns, see wildflowers, spot fall leaves
Top Nearby Trails / Overlooks:

  • You’re on it!

Island Lake

This lake is the next door neighbor of the popular Ice Lake and sports incredible bright teal water. Plus, you can packraft to the tiny rock island in the center!

Views & Scenery: Alpine lake, mountain peaks, wildflowers, waterfalls
Accessible/Open Dates: Open year-round, but conditions are challenging in the winter
Driving there: Doable in a passenger vehicle but 4X4/AWD recommended
Best Months to Get Married Here: Late July — Late September
Privacy Estimate: Busy
Dogs Allowed: Yes, on a leash
Mobility Impairment Accessible: No

Bathrooms Nearby: No
Driving distance from closest town: 8.6 miles from Silverton
My favorite activities to do here: Hike, raft, spot wildflowers
Top Nearby Trails / Overlooks:

South Fork Mineral Creek Falls

A couple embraces while standing on a rock before a tall waterfall, surrounded by lush evergreen trees and red rocky cliffs—a dreamy scene for those seeking inspiration on how to elope in nature’s beauty.

This dual falls rolls down brightly colored rock into a super blue pool at the bottom. It’s one of my favorite waterfalls in the entire state and feels like it’s out of a fantasy book.

Views & Scenery: Waterfall, forest, rocky cliffs
Accessible/Open Dates: July — September
Best Months to Get Married Here: July — September
Driving there: Accessible via dirt road, passenger vehicles can usually make it but 4X4 is recommended
Privacy Estimate: Moderate
Dogs Allowed: Yes, on a leash
Mobility Impairment Accessible: No

Bathrooms Nearby: Yes, at South Mineral Campground
Driving distance from closest town: About 7 miles west of town down Forest Road 585
My favorite activities to do here: Hike
Top Nearby Trails / Overlooks:

Best Hiking Trails in the San Juan Mountains for Wedding Photos


If you’re the hiking sort, the trails in the San Juans are truly world-class. Scale mountains, see waterfalls, and adventure through basins in full bloom in my favorite hikes in southwest Colorado.

Blue Lakes Trail

A bride and groom stand side by side on a grassy mountain slope, facing a dramatic rocky peak and a lake below. With "Just Married" signs on their backpacks, they’re the perfect inspiration for how to elope with adventure and style.

Blue Lakes is one of the most popular hikes in the state—and with good reason. The glacial lakes here are bright blue and surrounded by stunning rocky ridges to take it all in from.

Views & scenery: Glacial lakes, forests, mountains, fall colors, wildflowers
Length & elevation gain: 8.6 mile out-and-back with 2,506 ft elevation gain
Accessible/open dates: July — September
Privacy estimate: Busy
Driving there: Trailhead is located on a 4X4 road (passenger vehicles can usually make the trek but high-clearance is recommended)
Dogs allowed?: Yes, on leash, but mind your pup’s stamina
Driving distance from the closest town to the trailhead: 13.5 miles from Ridgway along County Road 7

Yankee Boy Basin to Wright Lake

A man and woman walking on a path in front of a mountain, dreaming about how to elope for an intimate adventure surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

This is a short but sweet but sweet trail that you can either hike or take a 4X4 through. It’s a great way to get out into the middle of nature.

Views & scenery: Mountains, forest, alpine lake
Length & elevation gain: 2.7 mile out-and-back trail with 875 ft elevation gain
Accessible/open dates: Open during the warmer months (road to trailhead closes in the winter)
Privacy estimate: Moderate
Driving there: 4X4 high clearance vehicle required
Dogs allowed?: Yes, on a leash
Driving distance from the closest town to the trailhead: 8.2 miles from Ouray

Tower Mountain via Velocity Basin

A couple walks hand in hand on a mountain path at sunset; the woman wears a flowing white dress and the man a dark suit, offering inspiration for how to elope amid golden light illuminating the peaks in the background.

This is a steep trail but will leave you with views that look like you just summited a full mountain. If you want to conquer something on your wedding day, this is perfect.

Views & scenery: Alpine lake, mountains, basin
Length & elevation gain: 4.2 mile out-and-back trail with 2,326 ft elevation gain
Accessible/open dates: Open year-round, but access and conditions can vary significantly depending on weather conditions
Privacy estimate: Not highly trafficked
Driving there: 4X4 vehicle suggested
Dogs allowed?: Yes, on a leash
Driving distance from the closest town to the trailhead: 8.7 miles from Silverton

Sloan Lake via American Basin Trail

A group of hikers walks along a winding dirt trail through a rocky, mountainous landscape under a clear blue sky—an inspiring backdrop for those seeking ideas on how to elope amid nature. A prominent peak rises in the background.

Sloan Lake is a gorgeous teal alpine lake that pops up about halfway to the summit up Handies Peak. Look for wildflowers and beautiful rocky ridges all around.

Views & scenery: Mountains, forest, alpine lake
Length & elevation gain: 3.2 mile out-and-back trail with 1,300 ft elevation gain
Accessible/open dates: Best during warmer months, can be limited during winter weather
Privacy estimate: Busy
Driving there: 4X4 vehicle suggested
Dogs allowed?: Yes, on a leash
Driving distance from the closest town to the trailhead: 17 miles from Silverton or 22.5 miles from Lake City

Ouray Perimeter Trail

A bride and groom walk on a dirt trail in the mountains, swinging a young child between them—offering inspiration for how to elope with family. Others walk ahead, surrounded by green trees and a blue sky with scattered clouds.

This is one trail that I absolutely always make time for every time I’m in Ouray! This also connects to two of my favorite sights in the area—Box Cañon Falls and Baby Bathtubs.

Views & scenery: Rivers, waterfalls, forests, caves, cliffs
Length & elevation gain: 5.6 mile loop with 1,489 ft elevation gain
Accessible/open dates: July — September (open year round but difficult in the snow and ice)
Privacy estimate: Busy
Driving there: Accessible in a passenger vehicle
Dogs allowed?: Yes, on a leash
Driving distance from the closest town to the trailhead: 0.5 miles north of Ouray along Highway 550

No matter what trail you choose, make sure you’re staying on marked paths, giving wildlife a healthy amount of distance, and always respecting the principles of Leave No Trace. The great outdoors are at their best when we are all preserving it for the next generation together.

Best Wedding Venues & Reception Venues Near the San Juan Mountains

If you’re having an intimate wedding and want a place indoors to gather with more people, that you can make sure is ADA accessible, or to have a traditional reception at so you get the best of both worlds, here are some of my favorite venues in the area!

Alternatives to the San Juan Mountains

If the San Juan Mountains aren’t for you for any reason, there are so many gorgeous spots all around the state! Here are a few of my picks, but you can find more in my guide to the Best Places to Elope in Colorado!

Rocky Mountain National Park

This is one of the most popular national parks in the United States and a great alternative if you’re looking for big mountain views with no 4X4 needed that are closer to Denver. You can find my full guide to the park here!You can check out my full guide on how to get married there here!

Telluride

While Telluride is located in the San Juan Mountains, there’s so much in this town that I gave it its own full guide! This is one of my favorite places in the state, and if you haven’t seen something that catches your eye in this guide, chances are that Telluride has what you’re looking for.

A couple in wedding attire stands by a calm lake, surrounded by evergreen trees and dramatic red mountains, with their reflection mirrored in the water under a clear blue sky.

Crested Butte

Central Colorado is a gorgeous stretch of the Rockies and Crested Butte is known as the wildflower capital of the state! This is a good option if you want awesome flowers in the summer and options for mountain biking.

A couple in wedding attire walks hand in hand on a winding mountain path—an inspiring scene for those wondering how to elope amid wildflowers, green hills, tall pines, and rugged peaks beneath a clear blue sky.

Dillon Reservoir

If you want your mountain views with a side of heavy lake vibes, Dillon Reservoir is the perfect place for you. Situated between three different incredible mountain towns, variety is the name of the game here. Check out my guide here!

Two women stand together on a blue sailboat labeled "344," sailing on a calm lake, showcasing how to elope in style amid green hills and mountains under a clear, sunny sky.

Explore the searchable database of all my recommended spots

Elopement Location Finder ™

Want to see some of the elopements I’ve designed & documented in Colorado?

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San Juan Mountains ELOPEMENT & Wedding GUIDE

How to Elope in the San Juan Mountains

A bride and groom stand by a turquoise alpine lake, surrounded by evergreen trees and mountains, their elopement showing how to elope in nature as the bride’s dress trails behind and the stunning landscape reflects in the water.

Getting married in the San Juans can be an easy and painless process! I’ve helped over 150+ couples get married in the state of Colorado, so I’m super familiar with the process.

If you’re looking for more general advice on how to elope or how to plan an intimate wedding, you can see my guides linked! If you’re looking for San Juans specific advice, read on.

San Juan Mountains Wedding Permit

Depending on the places you choose to get married, adventure and take photos you may need permits for each location—or none at all!  Many of the locations in this guide are within the Uncompahgre National Forest (managed by the US Forest Service) which may not require a permit for your wedding or your photographer, depending on the location and other requirements such as the number of people.

However, there are areas of the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests which are designated wilderness areas that have different requirements and restrictions.  Individual towns such as Telluride, Ouray, and Silverton may also have permits needed.

For example, a $75 San Miguel County permit is required for your photographer to allow them to photograph in the town of Telluride or at Bridal Veil Falls. 

Once you’ve chosen your locations, it’s best to check with the land manager (think town, county, or US Forest Service) for their requirements. I’m happy to help you with this process along the way! I have tons of experience in this neck of the woods and am happy to act as your permit pro on call.

Two women in white wedding dresses embrace on rocky terrain, one dress flowing in the wind—a beautiful scene that inspires how to elope amidst green hills, a lake, and mountains under a cloudy sky.

How to Get Your Marriage License

The state of Colorado makes the process of getting your marriage license super easy, and I go in depth about it in my Colorado elopement guide!

Just follow these steps:

  • Complete the application online for a marriage license—you can find this link at any of the websites listed below
  • Make an appointment to go in-person. These are usually limited to being within 7 days.
  • Pay the $30 fee via cash, credit, or check and sign some paperwork
  • Take your marriage license and either sign it right then or take it anywhere else in the state.
    Sign your license within 35 days of being issued! You can sign as your own witness in the state of Colorado (called self-solemnization) or even have your pup sign! You can find my blog post about self-solemnization here.
    Return your signed license within 63 days of marriage via mail or the official drop box outside the office.

There is no waiting period to sign your marriage license in Colorado and you don’t have to be a Colorado resident! You also don’t need an officiant. This is genuinely one of the (if not the) easiest states to get married in. 

Here are the closest county clerk offices to the San Juan Mountains:

Activities to Do in the San Juan Mountains For Your Wedding or Elopement

One of the very best parts of getting married in the San Juan Mountains is the sheer variety of things to do in the middle of such gorgeous scenery. Here are a handful that I’ve had eloping couples do and love on their wedding days!

4X4 Driving in the San Juan Mountains

Because this whole area used to be gold mining country, there are endless paths in and out of the mountains and across basins all through here! That means that the San Juans not only have some of the best 4X4 driving in the country, they also have some of the most accessible views. It doesn’t matter here if you’re not a huge hiker—because you can hire a local Jeep driver to pick you up and spit you out right in the middle of some of the most stunning peaks in the state. There are numerous jeep rental and tour companies in the San Juan  Mountains. Colorado West Jeeps and Switzerland of America are both great options (CO West is a personal favorite!).

A red Jeep with a "Just Married" sign drives down a dirt road surrounded by autumn trees, offering inspiration for couples searching how to elope, with mountains in the distance under a partly cloudy sky.

Train rides in the San Juan Mountains

If you want to sit back and enjoy the scenery, consider taking a train ride on your wedding day! The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad offers different paths, classes, and cars on their train rides, so there’s a perfect option for everybody. You can take the train back and forth from Durango to Silverton, which makes this an easy activity to build in since it doubles as transportation between the mountain towns!

A bride and groom hold hands and walk beside a stationary orange and red Durango & Silverton train, mountains and cloudy sky behind them—a perfect scene for those seeking inspiration on how to elope in picturesque locations.

Hot Springs in the San Juan Mountains

The San Juan Mountains have absolutely incredible hot springs options, ranging from all-inclusive resort options, like Dunton Hot Springs, to totally free options in the middle of nature, like Rainbow Hot Springs. No matter what your soaking style is, there’s an option for you in this neck of the state! The Springs Resort in Pagosa Springs and the Durango Hot Springs Resort & Spa are also both great options that run more in the middle of “all-inclusive” and “totally wild”. Starting your wedding day or ending it with a relaxing soak can be a great way to stop, literally soak in the moment, and connect to your partner.

Two people smile and playfully splash water at each other while relaxing in a stone-lined hot spring, surrounded by rocks—a perfect inspiration for couples searching for how to elope in nature’s embrace.

Skiing in the San Juan Mountains

If you love to ski, this is one of the best places to do it! Not only will you have access to stellar resorts like Purgatory, Wolf Creek, and Telluride, you’ll also have some of the best cross-country and backcountry skiing options right at your feet. Skiing is so popular here that you can find a super unique sport here—skijoring, where a person on skis is pulled behind a person riding a horse over ramps! I wouldn’t recommend trying it, but it can definitely be a fun spectacle to watch. There’s an annual festival for it every year in Ridgway!

A couple dressed in formal wedding attire walks hand in hand on snowshoes through a snowy forest, smiling and surrounded by tall evergreen trees—showing how to elope beautifully in a winter wonderland.

Where to stay in the San Juan Mountains

Lodging in the San Juan Mountains

Where to Eat in or Near the San Juan Mountains

Where to Eat in the san juan mountains

Where to Eat Near the san juan mountains on the way from Denver

Where to Eat Near the san juan mountains on the way from Albuquerque

Traveling to the San Juan Mountains

There are multiple great ways to travel into the San Juan Mountains from anywhere in the country, including into airports that specifically service the region. The nearest international airport is going to be Denver International Airport.

The closest airports and drive times to the San Juan Mountains are: 

  • Denver International Airport (DIA): to Telluride 353 miles / 6 hours 30 min drive, to Ouray 324 miles / 6 hour drive
  • Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ): to Telluride 68 miles / 1 hour 30 min drive, to Ouray 39 miles / 50 min drive
  • Grand Junction Regional Airport (GTJ): to Telluride 132 miles / 2 hours 30 min drive, to Ouray 102 miles / 2 hour drive

If you’re renting a car, I’d highly recommend getting a 4X4, high-clearance vehicle that can handle the occasionally rough terrain of the San Juan Mountains! This will also come in handy in case you hit unexpected patches of snow or weather, which can crop up quickly in the mountains.

A bride and groom embrace by a serene mountain lake, surrounded by pine trees and rocky cliffs under a partly cloudy sky—capturing the essence of how to elope in nature's breathtaking beauty.
A bride twirls in a white dress amid wildflowers while a groom in a burgundy suit looks on, offering inspiration for how to elope in a stunning green mountain landscape under a cloudy sky.

Traveling Within the San Juan Mountains

While renting a 4X4 vehicle is the easiest way to get around the San Juan Mountains, some of the high-clearance needed roads can be intimidating if you’re not familiar with driving them. They’re decently easy to avoid, but in case you don’t want to, here are a few other ways to get around the area!

  • Rent a shuttle to take you through 4X4 roads, like Colorado West Jeeps
  • Hop on a shuttle between cities (there are multiple options, depending on where you are going)
  • Take the train between Silverton and Durango
  • Use a gondola like this one between Mountain Village and Telluride (this one is public transit for locals and visitors, not just for a ski resort!)
  • Ride public transportation like the Mountain Express Transit between Pagosa Springs and Durango

If driving feels stressful or not doable for any reason, there are other options! I’m also happy to help you craft your day around not having a car. Just let me know and I will design your experience with that in mind!

What Does it Cost to Elope in the San Juan Mountains

The total cost to elope in the San Juan Mountains is just $30. That’s only the cost of a marriage license in Colorado, because so many of the truly stunning views and ceremony locations around here are totally free to go to! 

What it costs in the end to elope can depend on a variety of factors—things like lodging, activities, food and beverages, florals, wedding attire, and anything else you want to incorporate into your day all impact your overall budget. I wrote a whole blog post about the cost of eloping here! 

 Most of the couples that I work with invest most of their budget into photography. They’ve told me before that it’s because they really prioritize the feeling of adventure on their wedding day, and want to make sure that they can totally relax and be present in that moment. Knowing that everything is being carefully documented for them enables them to do just that! I also offer experience design as part of my services, meaning I will create a custom day just for you based on my 10+ years of experience and 300+ happy couples that will feel perfect for you and totally out of this world. 

Ultimately, the choice is yours! And that’s what’s so beautiful about eloping or having an intimate wedding.

Colorado Adventure Elopement Packages

My home state—full of the most gorgeous elopement spots in the world.

includes:

8+ Hours of guided, fun photography coverage by Maddie Mae

The Adventure Instead Elopement Experience™

Unique & secluded locations, bespoke activity ideas with pre-vetted guides, fun & luxurious lodging options, an experience-focused timeline, mood board & personalized styling suggestions, travel advice, VIP Planning Guide, and customized packing checklists

Free initial planning consultation call, direct access to Maddie Mae via text & email, unlimited planning consultations, unlimited collaboration & revisions, pre-vetted local vendor recommendations, and advice &and help with permits & marriage licenses

Guided + FUN photography experience, empathetic posing & directing, creative GIFS &and drone photography, hand-crafted editing, full-resolution image files with printing rights, digital gallery to view, download, & print, complementary album design, and convenient print ordering

My travel costs are covered and included to anywhere in Colorado

$9,000 for all of the above including 8-hours of photography

Full-day, multi-day, and custom packages available.

No added travel costs. No hidden fees of any kind.

INQUIRE FOR AVAILABILITY & MORE INFO
A laptop displaying a planning guide and checklist titled "How to Plan Your Elopement" sits next to a plant and mug, setting the scene for an inspired workspace. A smartphone with text rests on the desk, hinting at an adventure instead of tradition.

Ready to get started planning your own adventure elopement? 

You can download The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Elopement to begin digging deep into your own goals for your wedding celebration, or contact us so I can help you narrow down your options!

download the pdf guide

If you’re looking for further information on elopements, check out this blog all about the cost of elopements & how you can budget for an epic day!

Or, check out this blog full of small wedding ideas!

Whatever you decide, I firmly believe that you deserve to celebrate your wedding, elopement, or even proposal in whatever way feels perfectly true to who you both are! If you feel inspired by something you’ve found here, let me know! If not, I’ll help you curate a brand new vision that’s completely custom and made for you. 

Reach out to me and let’s get started on planning the adventure of your dreams!

A person with braided hair, wearing glasses and a tan coat, stands outdoors holding a camera. They are smiling and the background is blurred, giving a sense of being in a natural setting.

Hooray!

Now you know how to elope in the San Juan Mountains… 

let’s get started on the elopement day of your dreams!

The San Juan Mountains are an incredible place and, truly, one of my favorite spots on Earth. It’s the perfect blend of gorgeous jagged peaks, super accessible views, and great amenities. If you’re looking for bright fall foliage or huge wildflower blooms on your wedding day, this is the place to find them! Any time anyone asks me where the most stunning mountains in the state are, I point them to the San Juan Mountains every single time. 

So if this seems like your dream destination, get in touch with me! I’m happy to build a day made custom for you that will be unlike any other wedding day out there. Even if you aren’t sure where or precisely when, I’ll be here to guide you through every single step. I promise I’ll make the planning a breeze and your wedding day the time of your life.

Reach out to start planning your dream San Juans elopement

Don’t worry, most couples who inquire with me have no plans at all. 
Helping turn vague ideas into a thrilling plan is my specialty.

I can’t wait to hear your ideas and help bring them to life

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Note: I usually only photograph weddings with 25 guests or less

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Maddie Mae of Adventure Instead is a destination elopement photographer based in Colorado, USA. She’s been to 40 countries and all 7 continents. She designs, plans, & photographs adventure elopements worldwide.

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