The Magic of Fall in Colorado


Cozy sweaters, apple cider, hiking boots with cute socks, and mountainsides washed in gold. Its no wonder why Fall in Colorado is so popular! If you're looking to elope in the Rocky Mountains this fall, I have the perfect guide for you!

Timing is Everything!


The "Golden Window" for peak fall colors is short and intense. Timing is crucial and can vary year to year based on weather, temperature, and precipitation. If you are planning your elopement earlier in the year, a general timeline for fall in Colorado looks like this:

Mid-to-late September: This is when the highest elevations, like the San Juan Mountains and areas around Aspen and Rocky Mountain National Park, will see peak color.

Late September to Early October: The colors move down to mid-elevation towns like Breckenridge, Crested Butte, and Vail.

Early to mid-October: The leaves change in the foothills and lower-elevation areas closer to the Front Range, like near Denver and Boulder.

However, nature has its own schedule and flexibility is key! Booking a photographer for your elopement who's a local expert can really help with scheduling and timing on the best foliage. And always have a plan B if the weather changes.

Where to Elope for the Perfect Photos


So now you know when you'd like to go, but where are some great spots? Some of our favorites are:

  • Maroon Bells (Aspen): Perfect for elopements and micro weddings, Maroon Bells is the most iconic spot in Colorado for fall photos. The two peaks with the lake reflection and the aspens extending up both sides is famous for a reason! Since it is a very popular spot, it does require a permit ahead of time and a bus reservation to get to the small amphitheater if not hiking in. Reservations for the Maroon Bells Amphitheater must be made online through the US Forest Service website. The daily rate is $200, excluding taxes, discounts, or additional charges. You can make your reservation up to one year in advance beginning at 8:00 am MST. However, reservations are not available on Fridays and Saturdays in June, July, and August, and on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in September and October. As your elopement photographer, we will help with all the logistics of having a beautiful ceremony at Maroon Bells.
  • Kebler Pass (Crested Butte/Paonia): Home to one of the largest aspen groves in North America, Kebler Pass is known as a "Golden Tunnel". The road is a seasonal dirt road open May through October and has many spots where you can hike, bike and camp. The spot is best for small, adventurous elopements and requires a special-use permit from the US Forest Service.
  • San Juan Mountains (Telluride, Ouray, Silverton): The dramatic, rugged peaks and diverse scenery commonly show up in photos of Colorado, and its a great place to catch the fall colors as well as the spring mountain wildflower blooms. Sprawling over 12,000 square miles there are many locations to uncover in these mountains, some of which are only accessible by 4 wheeler. These mountains can be as adventurous or low key as you need them to be. We'll help you find the perfect spot for your dream elopement!
  • Guanella Pass (Near Georgetown): A great option for those who want a "wow" factor without a long drive from Denver. However, it is also very crowed on the weekends due to the same reason. There are a few spots to park and hike, such as on Mount Bierstadt, for those wanting to elope in this area.
  • Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) & Estes Park: The classic mountain feel, diverse landscapes (lakes, trails), and the chance to hear elk bugling... and much closer to Denver. Rocky Mountain National Park has some amazing aspen groves and wonderful spots to host a micro wedding or say vows at the top of a mountain. The park requires a special-use permit for special events (including elopements) that are larger than 8 people. However, this is permit is included if you reserve one of their facilities.
  • Golden Gate Canyon State Park (Golden): For those who want to have a later elopement or micro wedding (think October) or one that's closer to Denver, Golden Gate Canyon delivers. It has gorgeous aspen groves, beautiful overlooks, and miles and miles of hike trails that lead into beautiful valleys. However, to have a wedding in the park, they require the reservation of their Red Barn facility. Basic photoshoots will require 2-week notice and approval by the administrative assistant for the park.


Logistics & Photography Tips


Permits & Reservations: Many popular elopement locations, especially within state and national parks, require a special use permit and/or reservations. If you want to go to one of these spots at any time of year but especially in the fall, its important to plan ahead. As your photographer, can help guide you through this process and obtain permits for your elopement so you have one less thing to worry about!

Clothing & Gear: Clothing is a common question I'm asked when the planning begins. For fall elopements in the mountains its important to layer up and have sturdy comfortable footwear like hiking boots. Changing into fancier shoes or dress for your ceremony after you arrive is better than hurting your feet on the way up.

The Best Light: Lighting is important for photographers and the best lighting for the beautiful soft glow is right after sunrise or right before sunset, also known as golden hour. However, as your photographer, we can make any lighting work for you and your elopement desires.

A Day-of Timeline: The key benefit of eloping is creating a relaxed, intentional timeline for your day, rather than a rushed and packed wedding. I love to go with the flow and see what the day holds for us!


Share your vision with us TODAY!


If there's one thing for certain, I LOVE fall photos. The 4 weeks that we have of fall in Colorado are some of my favorites and the elopements that time of year are absolutely amazing. If you're ready to plan your fall elopement in Colorado, reach out to me today!