The Everything Guide to Planning Your San Juan Mountains Elopement

If you’ve landed here, there’s a good chance you’ve been dreaming about mountains — the kind that actually make your jaw drop a little. Welcome to the San Juan Mountains, where every road leads to a view worth committing to (literally).

As a Colorado elopement photographer based right between Ouray and Telluride, I spend a lot of time chasing light, scouting trails, and helping couples find their perfect spot to say “I do.”

Whether you’re after waterfalls, alpine lakes, or something that just feels cinematic without breaking the bank — this guide covers the best places for your San Juan Mountains elopement.

Why the San Juan Mountains Are Perfect for Your Elopement

The San Juans aren’t just mountains — they’re a full-on mood. Think cinematic skies, winding dirt roads, and alpine passes that look different every season.
It’s one of the most underrated elopement regions in Colorado (and yes, that’s coming from someone who’s been to all the “Pinterest-famous” spots – I’m looking at you Patagonia).

You’ll find:

• Budget-friendly elopement locations that don’t require fancy permits
• Year-round accessibility (depending on where you go)
• Endless options for both quick elopements and full-day adventures
• Towns like Ouray and Telluride that bring all the charm

Ouray, Colorado — The Switzerland of America

If you’re craving that tucked-away mountain-town feel, Ouray is it.
It’s known for its hot springs, rugged canyon views, and backdrops that feel straight out of a movie.

Best spots to elope:

• Gold Mountain Ranch – private, stunning, and perfect for micro weddings
• Ouray Amphitheater – easy access + unreal views (See my work here!)
• Yankee Boy Basin – alpine flowers and waterfalls in summer
• Box Canyon Falls – epic lighting for moody photos
• Western Hotel – a historic hotel in the heart of downtown (Check out a recent elopement here!)

Best season: Late June through early October (fall color heaven 🍂)

P.S. You can keep it simple with a courthouse ceremony at Ouray City Hall and then head into the mountains for portraits.

Telluride, Colorado — For the Luxe-But-Laid-Back Couple

If Ouray is quiet and cozy, Telluride is its slightly glammed-up cousin.
You’ll get jaw-dropping backdrops and creature comforts — perfect if you’re planning a multi-day stay or bringing a few guests.

Best spots to elope:

• Alta Lakes – high alpine lake with reflection views
• Bridal Veil Falls – iconic and cinematic (you’ll need good shoes!)
• San Sophia Overlook – probably the most dramatic ceremony view in the state
• Downtown Telluride – charming, historic, and perfect for post-ceremony champagne

Best season: June–September for access; December–March for snowy elopements

ALSOOO! The gondola ride is free — and doubles as one of the most romantic “post-ceremony” photo ops ever. You can thank me later for this tid-bit! 

Gold Mountain Ranch — The Hidden Gem of Ouray

You’ve probably seen this venue floating around my portfolio because it’s just that good.
Gold Mountain Ranch is private, quiet, and basically the San Juans’ best-kept secret for mountain wedding elopements.

Why I love it:

• You get sweeping mountain views without a long hike
• It’s accessible year-round (snowy elopements here? Unreal.)
• Perfect for couples who want a mix of nature + comfort
• You can host a small group — or just the two of you

Best season: All of them (I’m not kidding!) Summer’s green, fall’s cinematic, winter’s cozy, and spring brings moody weather that makes everything glow.

See more from this shoot at Gold Mountain!

Other Hidden Spots for a San Juan Mountains Elopement

If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s no shortage of lesser-known trails and passes that make for stunning Colorado elopement venues.

Some notable favorites:

• Molas Pass & Little Molas Lake – alpine perfection near Silverton
• Red Mountain Pass – dramatic, moody cliffs (especially in fog)
• Blue Lakes Trail – turquoise water meets rugged peaks
• Ophir Pass – quiet, cinematic, and perfect for sunset vows
  

Just a heads up: Some of these locations require a 4WD vehicle — or at least a partner willing to bounce around in the backseat for a few miles.

When to Elope in the San Juans

Each season in the San Juans brings a completely different vibe — here’s the low down:

Spring (April–May): Melting snow, wild weather, quiet trails. Bring layers.
Summer (June–August): Wildflowers, golden sunsets, and accessible mountain passes.
Fall (September–October): Peak colors + cozy mountain-town energy.
Winter (November–March): Moody light, snow-dusted peaks, and a whole lot of cinematic magic.

How to Keep Your Elopement Budget-Friendly

One of the best things about eloping in the San Juan Mountains Colorado? You can do it beautifully without spending a fortune.

Tips:

• Skip the venue — choose a scenic overlook or free-use public land – I have a blog all about the best spots here!
• Hire local vendors (less travel fees, more insider knowledge)
• Make a weekday your friend — fewer crowds, better lighting
• Plan your ceremony around the season’s natural beauty (free decor!)

Book Your San Juan Mountains Elopement Photographer

Your elopement deserves more than just a few pretty portraits. It deserves to feel like you.

I photograph couples all across the San Juan Range Colorado — from mountaintop elopements to cozy Airbnb ceremonies — always with a focus on honest, cinematic storytelling.

Whether you’re planning your Ouray elopement, dreaming of Telluride, or still figuring out which mountain road calls to you most, I’ll help you find the perfect spot (and document the day like it’s your favorite film).