A Breathtaking Elopement in Crested Butte, Colorado

A Breathtaking Elopement in Crested Butte, Colorado

Nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rocky Mountains lies the charming mountain town of Crested Butte. Known for its world-class skiing, vibrant summer wildflower blooms, and abundance of outdoor adventure activities, Crested Butte also provides an utterly romantic backdrop for eloping couples. From mountaintop vistas to rolling green meadows dotted with colorful wildflowers, Crested Butte offers countless stunning locations to exchange your vows in an intimate elopement ceremony.

Why Choose Crested Butte for Your Elopement

When envisioning the perfect elopement, many couples think of running off to exotic, far-flung destinations. But you don’t have to travel halfway across the world to find a magical elopement location. Crested Butte provides all the natural beauty and seclusion you could want for your special day, without the hassle of passports, long flights, and currency exchanges.

Crested Butte boasts over 850 miles of hiking and biking trails, including scenic tracks along brilliantly colored wildflower meadows and winding paths through mature aspen groves. You can exchange vows with epic mountain vistas as your backdrop. Then enjoy an adventurous honeymoon exploring Crested Butte’s vast wilderness areas by foot, bike, raft, or even horseback.

The charming historic town of Crested Butte also provides a romantic old west setting for your elopement. Quaint historic buildings, flower-filled window boxes, and wooden boardwalks lining the downtown streets set the scene for a fairytale elopement. You can even exchange vows in a romantic little historic chapel in town.

Planning Your Crested Butte Elopement

One of the main benefits of eloping is skipping the stressful wedding planning that comes with a big traditional wedding. But you'll still need to iron out a few details to pull off your dream Crested Butte elopement.

First, decide who you want to have present on your special day. While some couples choose to elope completely alone, others opt to share the moment with a few close friends and family. Keep in mind that Crested Butte is fairly remote, so expect those attending to make a bit of a travel commitment.

Next, choose the perfect time to elope. Crested Butte truly shines in summer when the wildflowers are in bloom and the hiking trails are free of snow. Late June to early August is peak wildflower season. Summer temperatures are warm and pleasant, in the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit during the day.

If you prefer cooler weather, a fall elopement can be lovely too. September brings bright golden aspens and fewer tourists. You could also consider a winter elopement, but be prepared for cold temperatures and deep snow. The ski resort operates from late November through April.

Capturing Your Special Day

An excellent elopement photographer is crucial for preserving all the special moments of your Crested Butte elopement. Make sure to vet photographers thoroughly to find someone experienced in shooting weddings and elopements in outdoor mountain settings.

Scout locations with dramatic backdrops like historic downtown Crested Butte, the Maroon Bells peaks, or a wildflower meadow. Schedule a sunrise or sunset session to capture that magical golden light. And maybe even plan a post-ceremony photo hike to include some of Crested Butte's stunning scenery.

Don't forget the marriage license when eloping in Crested Butte! You can obtain a license from the Gunnison County clerk’s office for $30. There is no waiting period, so you can get your license and get married the same day.

Where to Stay in Crested Butte

Crested Butte offers a variety of lodging options ideal for eloping couples.

For a truly unique experience, book a night in one of Crested Butte's cozy yurts, rustic log cabins, or vintage airstream trailers. Pitch a tent or park your camper under the stars at one of the area campgrounds.

If you prefer more traditional lodging, book a newlywed suite at one of the local hotels complete with a jetted tub, cozy fireplace, and luxury amenities. Downtown Crested Butte puts you close to all the action, while properties on the outskirts of town provide a little more seclusion.

Celebrating Your Elopement

Once the vows are sealed, it's time to celebrate your love! Crested Butte's charming downtown area offers plenty of dining and imbibing options for toasting your marriage.

Enjoy an intimate dinner for two at a fine dining restaurant like The Secret Stash. Sip local craft brews on the outdoor patio at Montanya Distillers. Or grab sweet treats from The Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory to enjoy as you stroll through town.

When you’re ready to retreat back to your lodging, ask your hotel to prepare a bubble bath decorated with rose petals, chocolate-covered strawberries, and a bottle of chilled sparkling wine.

Adventure Activities for Your Elopement Honeymoon

A Crested Butte elopement also provides the perfect launch point for an adventurous honeymoon in the Colorado Rocky Mountains. With endless hiking, biking, rafting, and more right at your fingertips, you'll make memories to last a lifetime.

Embark on scenic hikes through alpine meadows and forests ablaze with wildflowers. Ride your mountain bikes to panoramic overlooks with epic views. Sign up for a horseback ride winding through pine forests and mountain valleys.

Raft the rapids of the nearby Taylor and Gunnison Rivers. Or try your hand at fly fishing in the pristine mountain streams. Cap off your days of adventure soaking in scenic hot springs under the stars.

However you choose to celebrate your elopement, Crested Butte's stunning mountain scenery sets the stage for an unforgettable and intimate wedding day. The beauty and adventure of this Colorado gem will help you start your married life on the right foot.

FAQs

What is the best time of year to elope in Crested Butte?

The peak seasons for an elopement in Crested Butte are summer (June - August) when the wildflowers are blooming and fall (September - October) for the golden aspens. Summer offers warmer weather while fall has fewer tourists.

What should I wear for an elopement in Crested Butte?

Dress practically for the mountain climate. Consider layers, boots or sturdy shoes for hiking, and bringing a warm coat even in summer. A simple wedding dress or suit works well. Add colorful wildflowers for photos.

Where are the best places to take photos during a Crested Butte elopement?

Great photo spots include downtown Crested Butte, wildflower meadows, Maroon Bells peaks, Aspen forests, and scenic overlooks along mountain hiking trails.

Do I need any special paperwork to get married in Crested Butte?

You'll need to obtain a marriage license from the Gunnison County clerk's office. There is no waiting period so you can get your license and marry the same day.

Where should I stay during my Crested Butte elopement?

Choose from small cabins, rustic yurts, campgrounds, boutique hotels, or traditional resorts. Downtown Crested Butte is most convenient while properties outside of town offer more seclusion.