I love a dramatic moment as much as a cinematic mountain view, so if you’ve been around here long enough, you can probably guess my top 5 winter elopement locations in Colorado. But if you’re new here… hiiii, welcome to the Colorado chill zone. I’m Sasha, and these are the places I bring couples who want their winter elopement to feel magical, snowy, and a little bit iconic. Here are the best places to elope in Colorado during the winter season. 

5 Best Places to Elope in Colorado: Winter Edition

1. Durango

Durango, Colorado is one of my absolute favorites to visit for any type of photoshoot. It’s that quiet corner of the San Juans where everything feels untouched and cinematic, especially in winter. Snow settles onto the pines, the lakes freeze into soft mirrors, and the mountains just glow this time of year.

Best Month for a Winter Elopement in Durango: Late January–February.
This is when the snow is the most consistent, the lakes are fully frozen, and the mountains look their absolute best.

Why it’s perfect for winter elopements:

• Little Molas Lake + Andrews Lake = unreal winter backdrops
• The privacy is unmatched — no crowds, no chaos
• Easily accessible winter trails
• Dreamy for sunrise or blue-hour portraits

Winter Activities Near Durango

• Snowshoeing at Andrews Lake or Spud Lake
• Riding the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad (yes, it’s iconic in winter & gives Polar Express vibes)
• Grabbing hot cocoa in downtown Durango
• Cozy cabin or lodge stays for a romantic “just us” evening

Best for: couples who want adventure without needing to hike in deep snow. (This is a big deal in CO!!)

Check out my Durango Elopement Guide here!

2. Pagosa Springs

Pagosa Springs is one of the most romantic winter destinations in the state. You get mountains, meadows, cozy cabins, and — the star of the show — steaming hot springs surrounded by snow.

Best Month for a Winter Elopement in Pagosa Springs: December–February.
Pagosa gets early snow and holds it beautifully. December offers those fresh, sparkly snowfalls, while February brings deeper snow and the most gorgeous sunsets. You truly feel like you’re in a snow globe here. 

Why I love it:

• Snowy meadows + the Weminuche Wilderness backdrop
• Tons of cozy stays, from cabins to modern lodges (if you want to pamper yourself!)
• You can end your elopement in a hot spring (10000/10 recommend)

Winter Activities Near Pagosa Springs

• Soaking in the natural hot springs post-ceremony
• Sleigh rides through snowy meadows
• Snowshoeing or cross-country skiing in the San Juan National Forest
• Sunrise portraits in the Weminuche Wilderness

Perfect for: couples wanting a winter wonderland with built-in relaxation.

See my film photography in action for this Pagosa Springs couple here!

3. Lake Dillon

Lake Dillon in winter? Unreal. When the lake freezes, it turns into this massive sheet of soft, glowing ice that reflects the mountains perfectly. Whether you’re exchanging vows on the shoreline or adventuring around the forests, it’s always the most beautiful sight you’ve ever seen. 

Best Month for a Winter Elopement at Lake Dillon: January–March.
The lake is usually fully frozen by mid-January, and March still offers snow but with milder temps.

My favorite winter perks:

• The frozen lake creates a natural reflector for dreamy skin tones
• Easy winter access + tons of nearby parking
• Works beautifully for sunrise and sunset elopements

Winter Activities Near Lake Dillon

• Ice fishing or walking on the frozen lake (when conditions allow)
• Driving to nearby Frisco or Breckenridge for cozy après-elopement food & prime skiing territory
• Snowshoeing along the shoreline trails
• Golden-hour overlooking the Tenmile Range

Best for: couples who want dramatic winter scenery that’s easy to get to.

4. Sapphire Point

Sapphire Point is incredibly popular in peak seasons — but in winter? You get those insane mountain views with wayyy fewer people. It’s still one of the most accessible overlooks in the area and a favorite for couples bringing a few guests. It’s truly a winter elopement classic.

Best Month for a Winter Elopement at Sapphire Point: January–February.
This is when snow is most reliable and the overlook turns into a true winter postcard.

Why it’s always a win in my book:

• Perfect for intimate ceremonies
• Stunning views of Lake Dillon + the Tenmile Range
• Easily walkable in snow (and I’ll guide you on shoe spikes)

Winter Activities Near Sapphire Point

• A scenic drive through the Dillon Reservoir Recreation Area
• A cozy café stop in Breckenridge afterward
• Snowshoe loops around the overlook for extra portraits
• Easy winter-access trails perfect for couples with guests

Best for: couples who want epic mountains, no strenuous hiking, and the option to bring a few loved ones.

5. Loveland Pass 

Loveland Pass gives you that “top of the world” feeling instantly. It’s wild, windy, ridiculously beautiful, and basically looks like the backdrop to a winter fantasy film. It’s where you go when you want drama. At 11,990 feet, you’re literally on top of the Continental Divide, surrounded by snowy peaks in every single direction. 

Best Month for a Winter Elopement at Loveland Pass: Late February–March.
Road closures are less frequent, temperatures are slightly kinder, and the snow coverage is still perfect.

Why it’s unbeatable for a winter elopement:

• Snowy peaks in every direction
• Golden-hour light hits differently at 12,000 ft
• Photos that feel cinematic and bold

Winter Activities Near Loveland Pass

• Sledding or scenic roadside stops along the summit
• Snowy portraits with panoramic mountain views
• Warming up in Georgetown or Dillon afterward
• For adventurous couples: short ridge-line hikes with crampons

Best for: couples who are down for wind, adventure, and unforgettable views.

Sooo…Which Colorado Winter Elopement Location Is Right for You?

Here’s the quick cheat sheet for the best places to elope in Colorado:

Location	Best Month	Vibe	Ideal For
Durango	Jan–Feb	Quiet, peaceful, cinematic	Low-hiking adventure
Pagosa Springs	Dec–Feb	Romantic + cozy	Hot springs + mountain lovers
Lake Dillon	Jan–Mar	Frozen lake drama	Easy-access winter views
Sapphire Point	Jan–Feb	Accessible + iconic	Couples with guests
Loveland Pass	Feb–Mar	Wild + bold	Adventurous couples

Colorado Winter Elopement Packages

If you’re dreaming up a snowy ceremony, a winter adventure, or just want photos that look like they belong in a movie, I’d love to help plan your day. Take a peek at my winter elopement packages here!

Now that you know the best places to elope in Colorado, head to this blog to start planning your winter elopement!