Your Guide to Elope in Colorado Springs
Are you thinking about an elopement near Colorado Springs? Check out this guide for information on Colorado Springs elopement locations, Colorado Springs elopement packages, and lots more!
Page Contents
- Your Guide to Elope in Colorado Springs
- 5 reasons why Colorado Springs is a great place to elope
- Best places to elope in Colorado Springs
- Getting your marriage license for your Colorado Springs elopement
- Choosing when to elope in Colorado Springs
- Nearby hikes for your elopement
- Where to have your Colorado Springs elopement reception
- Things for you and your guests to do in Colorado Springs
- Looking for an Colorado Springs elopement photographer?
- Colorado Springs elopement and micro wedding photography packages + Manitou Springs Elopement Packages
Updated: March 21, 2022
5 reasons why Colorado Springs is a great place to elope
- One of the great things about eloping in Colorado Springs is the variety of scenery to choose from, including mountains, red rocks, lush green spaces, and more! Check out the best places to elope in Colorado Springs listed below for some examples.
- Many locations are accessible year round. If you’re nervous about having a winter elopement in Colorado because of unpredictable access issues in the mountains, Colorado Springs has some great options.
- Many of the locations to elope in Colorado Springs are very accessible! This can be great if you want beautiful views but don’t want to have to hike a long way to get to them.
- Dogs friendly locations! If having your dog with you for your elopement is important to you, you’ll definitely be able to find a dog friendly location near Colorado Springs.
- Large airports nearby. If you’re traveling to Colorado from out of state, you may be able to conveniently fly right into Colorado Springs. Alternatively, Denver International Airport is only 1.5 hours from Colorado Springs.
Best places to elope in Colorado Springs
Garden of the Gods
Garden of the Gods is an iconic Colorado location with beautiful red rock formations and views of Pikes Peak. Check out this complete guide to eloping in Garden of the Gods for more details!
Palmer Park
Palmer Park is a local Colorado Springs park with lots of trails and great views. If you’re looking for open fields with views of the foothills, this is a great spot to check out!
Manitou Springs Elopement
Manitou Springs is the town just northwest of Colorado Springs. If you’re looking to elope in Manitou Springs, you might consider any of the nearby locations on this list such as Garden of the Gods or Pikes Peak.
Some other locations to consider for a Manitou Springs elopement include Red Rock Canyon Open Space or some of the nearby hiking trails.
The Paint Mines Elopement
The Paint Mines near Colorado Springs is one of the most unique places you can elope in Colorado. With a variety of rock formations in hues of yellow, orange, and pink, you’ll almost feel like you’re on another planet.
It’s important to note that the rocks here may look sturdy but they are actually extremely fragile. It’s important to stay on trail at this location so that we continue to preserve this very special Colorado location!
For more information, check out this guide to the Paint Mines for elopements.
Pikes Peak Elopement
If you want an adventurous elopement and epic Colorado mountain views, Pikes Peak could be a great choice for you! You can hike to the top for a true adventure or you can just drive up if you prefer.
Keep in mind that you do need need to apply for a special event permit at all locations along Pikes Peak road. I recommend chatting with your elopement photographer if you need help with this!
Airbnb/VRBO
Other fun idea to consider for your elopement would be to rent an Airbnb or VRBO with epic views. There are plenty of properties with great views throughout the Colorado Springs area. If both privacy and accessibility are important to you, renting a private property is a great choice!
Talk to your photographer about more hidden elopement gems around Colorado Springs
Finding a location is usually the first thing couples want to do when planning their elopement or microwedding, but I’ll let you in on a little wedding industry secret…
Choosing a photographer first is actually the best thing you can do, especially if you’re planning an elopement or small wedding.
Why? Because local photographers know all the best spots! Most elopement photographers, including myself, include location help with their photography packages.
For example, when you tell me what type of scenery you want, how many guests you’re planning to have, whether you want to hike or whether you need an accessible location, etc. etc., I can help you with determining what your best options are in a given area like Colorado Springs.
Colorado is a beautiful place, and there are literally hundreds of location options. If you hire your photographer first, you don’t have to take on the daunting task of finding a place to get married by yourself.
Colorado Springs and the surrounding areas have many more hidden gems that are perfect for a Colorado elopement. Get in touch and we can start planning your dream elopement day!
Getting your marriage license for your Colorado Springs elopement
How to get your marriage license in Colorado
The process for getting your marriage license in Colorado is very simple.
You will need to go to a County Clerk and Recorder’s office. You can go to any county’s office in the state, regardless of where you are getting married.
Although some counties allow you to start the application online, you must complete the process in person.
There is no waiting period to get married in Colorado, so you can use it the same day you get it. However, keep in mind that these offices follow typical government office hours and holidays. Most offices are open Monday through Friday from 8 A.M. to 4:30/5 P.M.
The process is very quick! It will usually only take about 20 to 30 minutes and you should not need an appointment.
You must use the license within 35 days of applying for it. Then it must be completed and filed back with the County Clerk and Recorder’s office within 63 days from the date of the wedding. You can either mail it back in, or return it physically to the same location.
What do I need to bring?
- $30 (most counties accept cash, check, or credit card)
- Valid form of identification (e.g., passport, driver’s license, military I.D.), including proof of age
- Social security numbers
If I live elsewhere, should I get my marriage license in Colorado?
If you are getting married in Colorado, you should obtain your marriage license in Colorado rather than your home state if you live elsewhere. This is because very few states allow you to apply for a marriage license, have your ceremony in another state, and then return home to file the license.
The reverse is also true. If you live in Colorado, but want to have your ceremony in another state, you should apply for your marriage license in the state where you’re having your ceremony. Colorado requires you to sign your marriage license within the state.
Choosing when to elope in Colorado Springs
Season
Although there are great location options at any time of year, it’s good to keep in mind that some locations are only easily accessible in the summer (e.g., Pikes Peak).
Weather conditions can also vary significantly from day to day (especially in the Fall, Winter, and Spring), and conditions can also vary significantly between lower elevations and higher ones. Talking with a locally-based professional can help you get a better understanding of what to expect for your chosen location.
In Colorado Springs during the summer, the mornings and evenings are pleasant, although it can get quite warm during the day. The summer also tends to see the most afternoon storms, which can help with cooling off the hotter temperatures.
The spring and fall in Colorado Springs are not as hot during the day but the weather and temperatures can be more unpredictable. Every year is a little different as to exactly when the seasons start to change. But normally May is when the wildflowers start to bloom.
In the winter, Colorado Springs does get snow, although it tends to melt quickly in the lower lying areas which can make for more pleasant outdoor days. March tends to be the snowiest month of the year!
Weekend/Weekday
Because of the popularity of many Colorado Springs locations, I always recommend a weekday elopement if at all possible. It will offer you significantly less crowds and more privacy than a weekend elopement.
Time of day
Equally as important as choosing a weekday elopement over a weekend elopement, is choosing a time of day that will offer you the best chance of privacy.
Early mornings are by far the best time to elope if privacy is important to you. If you can’t make a morning elopement work for you two, evenings are generally the next best time.
Nearby hikes for your elopement
One of the best things about eloping in Colorado is the opportunity to add in a little adventure! Maybe you’re interested in having a hiking wedding or maybe you just want to have some extra fun on another day during your visit to Colorado. Either way, there are a ton of great hiking options near Colorado Springs! Here are a few:
- Perkins Central Garden Trail (1.1 miles; 75 feet elevation gain)
- Buckskin Charlie Trail Loop (1.5 miles; 127 feet elevation gain)
- Seven Bridges Trail (3.7 miles; 1,033 feet elevation gain)
- Palmer Trail/Section 16 (5.7 miles; 1,292 feet elevation gain)
- Mount Muscoco Trail (3.7 miles; 1,292 feet elevation gain)
- Cabin Canyon, Siamese Twins, Palmer and Central Garden Trail Loop (4.3 miles; 616 feet elevation gain)
Where to have your Colorado Springs elopement reception
Here are a few different options for celebrating your Colorado Springs elopement, whether that be just the two of you or with others.
Picnic
A picnic on the trail or at a local pavilion is always a great option for celebrating your elopement.
If you’re planning to celebrate your elopement with friends and family, Colorado Springs has several pavilions that you can reserve.
Restaurant
Another option would be to make a reservation at a nearby restaurant for your reception. Many restaurants have a private event space option. You could also consider having your reception at a nearby distillery or craft brewery!
Private Chef
Finally, if you love good food but want more privacy to celebrate your marriage, consider hiring a local private chef. This is a great option if you’re renting an Airbnb or VRBO in the area.
Check out this elopement reception planning guide for more ideas and inspiration for your post elopement celebration!
Things for you and your guests to do in Colorado Springs
If you and your guests are visiting Colorado Springs for your elopement, you’ll probably be looking for some entertainment nearby.
Here are a few ideas that you might want to consider:
- Drive to the top of Pikes Peak
- Visit the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
- Go for a hike or mountain bike ride
- Take a hot air balloon ride
- Ride the Royal Gorge Train
- Play a round of golf at one of Colorado Springs’ many scenic courses
Check out more ideas of things to do!
Looking for an Colorado Springs elopement photographer?
Looking for someone to help you document your special day? I’m a Colorado-based elopement and intimate wedding photographer, and I love helping couples turn their vision for their dream day into a reality!
I’d be honored to help you with photographing your elopement. Learn more below!
Colorado Springs elopement and micro wedding photography packages + Manitou Springs Elopement Packages
I’m more than just a photographer…I’m here to help you have the best day ever!
Based on my experience, especially with elopements and microweddings, couples need more than just a photographer.
Unlike with a traditional wedding, you may not have a venue coordinator or wedding planner helping you think through logistics, locations, or all the little details that really add up!
I don’t just show up and take photos on your day. I’ll be here for you every step of the way.
I know you have a lot of choices when it comes to picking a photographer. What makes me different is that my number one goal is to be here for YOU–not just as your elopement photographer… but as your elopement partner to help you create the epic day your love story deserves!
All of my Colorado Springs and Manitou Springs Elopement Packages include:
- Elopement & Micro wedding VIP Planning Guide exclusively for Wild and Found couples
- Questionnaires to help you through the planning process
- Personalized location assistance
- Local vendor recommendations
- Logistics help and a custom timeline
- Gear and day-of checklists customized for your day
- More one-on-one planning help
- Assistance with wedding permit if needed
- Cost of photo permit included
- An entire gallery of edited, high-resolution images great for printing, PLUS websize images ideal for posting to social media
- The rights to print, share, and download all of your images
- A sneak peek of 5 images with 48 hours
- PLUS a 20% off discount on prints, albums, canvas art, etc. for your first order
2-Day Colorado Springs Elopement Package
Can’t decide between a “just us” celebration, or a day with friends and family? Have both!
Includes 12 hours of photo coverage, split over 2 days.
Travel throughout all of Colorado included!
8 Hour Colorado Springs Elopement Package
Our most popular package–for capturing memories of your entire elopement day
Includes 8 hours of photo coverage.
Travel throughout all of Colorado included!
4 Hour Colorado Springs Elopement Package
A great choice for simple elopements at accessible locations or for short hikes.
Includes 4 hours of photo coverage.
Travel throughout all of Colorado included!
2 Hour Colorado Springs Elopement Package
When something short and sweet will do!
Includes 2 hours of photo coverage.
Available only for “just us” elopements (no guests) on Mondays through Thursdays within 2 hours of Denver.
Bookable up to 2 months in advance.
Are you planning an elopement or microwedding?
I’m more than just a photographer. Helping couples create their dream day is what I do best!
Get in touch and let’s chat about your vision!
Or check out more elopement planning resources…
Hi I’m Kim, a Denver, Colorado based photographer specializing in Adventure Elopements in Colorado and worldwide! Photographing couples on the most special day of their lives is a true honor for me. But I’ve made it my mission to take it one step further than that. When you work with me, you’re getting more than just a photographer. I’m here to help you with all of the planning resources you need to have the most amazing elopement day ever! That includes everything from assistance with location ideas, timeline planning, and lots more free resources. So you can forget the work, and focus on having fun!