Crested Butte Elopement Guide
Crested Butte is a mountain town built for adventure. Nestled in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, it’s a dream destination for couples seeking a private and scenic place to exchange their vows. Known as the Wildflower Capital of Colorado, a Crested Butte elopement offers gorgeous backdrops of aspen groves, alpine lakes, and breathtaking mountain views that make every celebration truly special.
Whether you’re planning a simple exchange of vows or a day full of exploration and celebration, Crested Butte has something for every couple. This guide covers everything you need to know—top locations, permit requirements, and insider tips—to make planning your elopement as effortless as your big day.
Reasons to get married in Crested Butte
Stunning Natural Beauty
Crested Butte looks like it belongs on a postcard. With its mountains, forests, aspen groves, and alpine lakes, it’s an incredible place to exchange vows. Each season offers its own unique scenery, making it unforgettable year-round.
Endless Adventures
If you love the outdoors, Crested Butte has plenty to offer. Spend your day hiking, biking, skiing, or exploring the water with kayaking and fishing. It’s the perfect spot to blend adventure with your celebration—just pack the essentials to stay comfortable.
Privacy and Seclusion
Crested Butte’s distance from Denver makes it a true getaway. It’s far enough to feel special, and for couples wanting complete privacy, backcountry spots are easy to find with an off-road vehicle. You’ll have the space to make your ceremony entirely your own.
A Peaceful Escape
Walking through Crested Butte feels like stepping into the past. The town’s historic buildings, painted in bold colors inspired by the landscape, create a welcoming and unique atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to slow down, enjoy your day, and soak in the charm around you.
Reasons to not get married in Crested Butte
While Crested Butte offers incredible opportunities for a memorable elopement, it’s important to consider a few challenges that might come with planning your wedding here.
Crowds during peak season
Crested Butte can get busy during summer wildflower season and fall when the aspens peak. Popular locations may feel crowded, which can make finding a quiet spot more challenging.
Limited Cell Service
Cell coverage is unreliable in many parts of Crested Butte, especially in remote or backcountry areas. Coordinating with vendors or guests can be tricky without advance planning.
Remote Location
Crested Butte’s distance from major cities makes it less convenient for some couples and guests. For those flying in, extra travel time and planning are often required. Local accommodations may also fill up quickly, so early booking is key.
How to get married in Crested Butte
1. Pick a date and location
Crested Butte’s beauty transforms with the seasons, so choose a time that matches your vision. Summer brings vibrant wildflowers, while fall offers golden aspens. Popular spots like Peanut Lake and Woods Walk are easy to access, while remote areas like Emerald Lake offer more privacy.
2. Get a Colorado marriage license & Permits
Apply for a Colorado marriage license at any county clerk’s office. The license costs $30, and you’ll need valid IDs to apply. The process is quick and easy, so it’s one less thing to stress about! If your location needs additional permits, secure them early to avoid delays.
3. Hire experienced vendors
Vendors familiar with the Crested Butte area can make your day seamless. Photographers, officiants, and planners with expertise in Colorado’s unique locations and logistics will help you make the most of your celebration.
4. Plan your wedding timeline
Crested Butte’s lighting and views are stunning but require planning. Work with your photographer to create a timeline for key moments, like a sunrise hike or golden hour by an alpine lake.
5. Exchange your vows in the rockies
With mountains, lakes, and sweeping views, Crested Butte sets the perfect stage for your vows. Whether it’s a popular trail or a quiet backcountry spot, the scenery will make it unforgettable.
Crested Butte Elopement Costs & Breakdown
The cost of a wedding in Crested Butte varies based on factors like ceremony location, reservation and permit fees, and optional services such as photography, lodging, and florals. Here’s a breakdown of the key expenses to help you plan.
Reservation and Permit Fees
Reservation and permit fees for wedding locations in Crested Butte range from $0 to $2,000, depending on the site. Locations managed by the Crested Butte Land Trust, such as Woods Walk and Peanut Lake, typically cost around $2,000. More remote or public-access areas like Kebler Pass or Emerald Lake may not require fees but could have additional logistical considerations. Always check specific guidelines for your chosen location.
Marriage License
A Colorado marriage license costs $30 and is available from the Gunnison County Clerk & Recorder’s Office. There’s no waiting period, and the license is valid for 35 days from the date of issuance.
Other costs
Couples planning a wedding in Crested Butte often spend $5,000–$15,000 on additional essentials like photography, florals, hair and makeup, officiant services, transportation, and lodging. Lodging options range from luxury mountain rentals to budget-friendly accommodations in Gunnison. Many couples also invest in 4×4 vehicle rentals for accessing remote locations like Emerald Lake or Washington Gulch Road.
Crested Butte Wedding Permits
Do I need a permit for my Crested Butte Wedding?
It depends on your chosen location. Many popular spots in Crested Butte, such as Peanut Lake and Woods Walk, require permits as they are managed by the Crested Butte Land Trust. For remote backcountry areas, permits are generally not required for weddings with fewer than 75 people, but it’s essential to confirm with the appropriate land management agency, such as the Gunnison Ranger District.
What locations require a permit?
- Peanut Lake and Woods Walk: Required and can be obtained through the Crested Butte Land Trust.
- Kebler Pass and Washington Gulch: While permits are often not required for small ceremonies, confirm with the Gunnison Ranger District if you plan to bring larger groups or staging setups.
- Emerald Lake and Other Backcountry Spots: Small ceremonies typically don’t need permits, but always verify with the Gunnison Ranger District to ensure compliance with land-use policies.
How much does a permit cost?
Permit costs vary depending on the location and are used to support the conservation and maintenance of these areas. For detailed fees, consult the Crested Butte Land Trust Wedding Information.
When should I apply?
Permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis, and popular dates during summer and fall fill up quickly. It’s recommended to apply as soon as you confirm your wedding date and location to avoid missing out.
Guidelines for weddings in Crested Butte
Crested Butte’s incredible landscapes make it a top choice for outdoor weddings, but preserving this natural beauty is a shared responsibility. Following these simple guidelines ensures your special day leaves no trace and helps protect these spaces for future visitors.
Parking and Access
Parking can be tight at many Crested Butte wedding spots, so it’s important to plan ahead:
- Most parking areas operate on a first-come, first-serve basis, with no reserved spots.
- To reduce congestion, consider carpooling or arranging a shuttle for guests.
- Be mindful of other visitors by keeping trailheads and access points clear.
Leave No Trace Guidelines
Help keep Crested Butte’s trails and landscapes pristine by following these principles:
- Decorations: Use only free-standing decorations and make sure to take them with you afterward.
- Protect the Ground: Avoid staking, digging, or placing chairs directly on delicate surfaces.
- No Releases: Skip anything that might leave debris behind, like rice, seeds, confetti, or petals.
- Pack It In, Pack It Out: Take all trash, belongings, and ceremony items with you when you leave.
- Keep Music Minimal: Use acoustic music at a low volume to maintain the quiet atmosphere.
Seasonal Considerations
- Winter Conditions: Snow and ice can make trails and parking areas difficult to navigate. A lot of the remote location aren’t accessible until July depending on the snow accumulation. Be prepared with proper gear and dress for cold weather.
- Unpredictable Weather: At higher elevations, conditions can change quickly. Bring layers and plan for wind, sudden temperature drops, or even snow.
Crested Butte Elopement Marriage License
Getting your marriage license for a Crested Butte wedding is a simple and straightforward process!
Where to apply
Visit the Gunnison County Clerk & Recorder’s Office, located at:
221 N. Wisconsin St., Suite C, Gunnison, CO 81230
Appointments are required and can be scheduled by contacting the office. If you’re planning to get married during the busy summer or fall wedding season, be sure to book well in advance. For full details, visit the Gunnison County Marriage License page.
Fees & Validity
A Colorado marriage license costs $30 and is valid for 35 days from the date it’s issued. There’s no waiting period, so you can use it immediately—perfect for elopements or destination weddings.
What to bring
Both parties must appear in person to apply and bring one of the following valid forms of photo ID:
- State-issued ID
- Driver’s license
- Passport
- Military ID
Tips for a smooth process
- Schedule Early: Appointments fill up quickly during peak wedding seasons, so book as soon as you know your date.
- Confirm Office Hours: Check the Gunnison County Clerk’s hours to avoid last-minute surprises.
When to get married in Crested Butte
The best time to get married in Crested Butte is July through mid October. These months offer ideal weather for outdoor ceremonies, with summer wildflowers and fall aspen colors. Popular spots like Kebler Pass can get crowded during peak seasons, so plan for a weekday or an early morning ceremony to avoid interruptions.
Fall (Mid September – Mid October)
Fall features golden aspen groves, especially along Kebler Pass, drawing significant crowds. For a quieter experience, consider weekdays or less-traveled areas. Snow can arrive by late October, so plan ahead for changing conditions.
Winter (November – Late March)
Winter brings snow-covered peaks and crisp mountain views. Many trails are inaccessible, but the town and surrounding venues remain available. Prepare for cold temperatures and possible snowstorms when planning.
Spring (Late April – Late Jane)
In spring, the town begins to thaw, but the backcountry remains snowbound until late June. Weather can vary from sun to rain or snow, so ceremonies closer to town are more reliable during this transitional season.
Summer (July – Early September)
Summer starts in July when the backcountry becomes accessible, and wildflowers cover the meadows. Trails are fully open, making it the perfect time for outdoor weddings. Avoid peak weekend crowds by scheduling your ceremony for a weekday or early morning.
Best places to get married in Crested Butte
Woods Walk
Woods Walk is a peaceful, accessible wedding site just off Kebler Pass Road, minutes from downtown Crested Butte. In summer, the fields are covered with wildflowers, and fall brings golden aspens. The first field accommodates up to 100 guests, making it a versatile choice for elopements or larger gatherings.
Peanut Lake
Peanut Lake is a grassy wedding site near downtown Crested Butte, managed by the Crested Butte Land Trust. The area features lake and mountain views and space for up to 100 guests. While it’s easily accessible, the proximity to a road and hiking trail makes it less private than other locations.
Gunsight Bridge
Gunsight Bridge is a quiet ceremony spot near the Slate River, managed by the Crested Butte Land Trust. This site features a rustic bridge leading to a grassy meadow with mountain views. It’s a short walk from the parking lot and ideal for intimate weddings.
Emerald Lake
Emerald Lake is a high-altitude site with turquoise water and dramatic mountain views, best for small, adventurous weddings. The trail to the lake is short but rugged, requiring a high-clearance vehicle to access. This remote location offers seclusion and natural beauty near Crested Butte.
Kebler Pass
Kebler Pass offers sweeping aspen groves and mountain views, making it a favorite for fall weddings. The area is easily accessible by car and features several pull-off spots for ceremonies. It’s a practical choice for couples seeking a scenic, outdoor wedding near Crested Butte.
Lake Irwin Campground
Lake Irwin Campground is a lakeside wedding location surrounded by mountain views, ideal for small outdoor ceremonies. The site is accessible by car and includes areas near the water for ceremonies. Its quiet setting makes it a great choice for couples planning a wedding near Crested Butte.
Lost Lake Campground
Lost Lake Campground provides a forested and tranquil setting, perfect for small weddings. The site requires a short hike to reach, offering privacy and a serene lakeside backdrop. It’s a remote option for couples wanting an intimate ceremony near Crested Butte.
Washington Gulch Road
Washington Gulch Road offers several pull-off spots with incredible mountain views, perfect for couples seeking more secluded ceremony locations. The road requires a high-clearance vehicle and some off-roading experience to navigate safely. For those up to the challenge, the reward is unmatched privacy and stunning scenery near Crested Butte.
Gothic Road (+Ghost Town)
Gothic Road leads to the historic ghost town of Gothic, featuring rustic buildings surrounded by rugged peaks. This site is accessible by car and offers a unique blend of history and nature. It’s a great choice for couples seeking an adventurous wedding location near Crested Butte.
Tips for a Crested Butte Elopement
Aim for a weekday Ceremony
Want fewer crowds and more privacy? Plan your elopement on a weekday. Crested Butte can get busy, especially on weekends. If weekdays aren’t an option, schedule your ceremony at sunrise or sunset. These times offer soft, natural light and quieter moments.
Understand Crested Butte’s Seasons
Weather here changes quickly, so be prepared. From November to May, you’ll find snowy trails and chilly temps—perfect for a winter elopement. Late June to October features wildflowers, lush landscapes, and warmer weather. Pack layers no matter the season; you’ll thank yourself later.
Wear the right shoes
Trails around Crested Butte can be rugged. For summer or fall elopements, hiking boots or sturdy flats work best. Winter or early spring? Go for insulated boots with good grip to handle snow and ice safely.
Time It Right: Sunrise vs. Sunset
Sunrise elopements give you a private, quiet start to your day with amazing light for photos. Prefer a slower morning? Sunset ceremonies deliver those golden-hour views, especially on west-facing peaks and trails.
Stay flexible
Nature can be unpredictable. Be ready to adjust your plans—whether it’s exploring a new trail, waiting for better light, or catching an unplanned moment. The unexpected often creates the best memories.
Activity Ideas for Crested Butte Elopements
Where to celebrate after
- Paradise Cafe: Cozy spot for breakfast/lunch with a full drink menu and patio views.
- Secret Stash Pizza: Eclectic vibe with gourmet pizzas and craft cocktails.
- Pitas in Paradise: Greek/Mediterranean dishes with vegan and vegetarian options.
- Bonez Tequila Bar & Grill: Mexican cuisine in a vibrant Dia de los Muertos setting.
- The Wooden Nickel: Classic steakhouse with a modern twist in a historic setting.
- The Slogar Bar & Restaurant: Family-style meals in an 1880s Victorian building.
- Montanya Rum Distillers: Craft rum tours with cocktails and bar food downtown.
- The Dogwood: Rustic cabin bar with creative cocktails in an intimate atmosphere.
- Izakaya Cabin: Sushi and drinks in a British pub and Japanese tavern vibe.
- Elk Ave Prime: Refined steakhouse with farm-to-table salads and premium meats.
- Soupçon Bistro: Cozy cabin offering a fine French-American dining experience.
Crested Butte Elopement Photos & Galleries
Crested Butte Elopement Packages
Planning your Crested Butte elopement should be exciting and stress-free. My customizable packages are designed to help you create a seamless day that reflects your unique story. From the aspen groves of Kebler Pass to the hidden gems along Gothic Road, I’ll guide you to the best ceremony spots and photo locations in the area. Packages include photography coverage, permit assistance, personalized recommendations for activities, and a sneak peek gallery delivered within a week. Whether you’re planning a short ceremony or a full-day adventure, my packages can be tailored to fit your vision. For full details, visit my pricing page.
Crested Butte Elopement Photographer
Eloping in Crested Butte comes with incredible opportunities for stunning photos, but also unique challenges like changing weather and remote locations. As a photographer specializing in Colorado elopements, I know the best spots and how to navigate them. Whether you’re planning a sunrise ceremony along Washington Gulch, a quiet moment at Lost Lake, or a hike to Emerald Lake, I’ll capture your day with care and creativity. My goal is to document both the big moments and the smaller, personal details that make your day unforgettable. Learn more about how I work with couples on my pricing page.
Have a question about your Crested Butte Elopement?
Crested Butte is an incredible backdrop for your next big adventure. Let’s connect and see if I’m the right fit to help you plan an elopement that reflects your love and sense of adventure. Reach out through my contact page—I can’t wait to hear from you!