An Ouray Colorado Elopement Guide for a Dreamy Mountain Wedding Day
Ouray is one of those places that almost feels too magical to be real. Tucked into the San Juan Mountains and nicknamed the “Switzerland of America,” it’s rugged, dramatic, and impossibly romantic. It also happens to be one of the most popular spots for couples who want to ditch the traditional wedding day stress and trade it for adventure, beauty, and intimacy. I’ve had the joy of photographing two beautiful elopements in Ouray—Ryan + Rylee in 2024 and Baker + Irhet in 2025—and each experience confirmed for me: Ouray is truly one of the best places to elope in Colorado. After back-to-back elopements in this corner of the state, I’m excited to share this guide to help you plan your own Ouray Colorado elopement.
Why Choose Ouray for Your Colorado Elopement?
There’s no shortage of beautiful places to elope in Colorado, but Ouray just feels different. The mountains here are wild and breathtaking—towering peaks, hidden alpine lakes, wildflower basins, and waterfalls around every corner. Yankee Boy Basin, especially, feels like stepping into another world. What I love most is that you get to set the pace. You can head up a Jeep road for a full-on mountain adventure, or stay closer to town and still have the most stunning backdrop. And then, when the day winds down, Ouray itself feels like the coziest little basecamp. Hot springs to soak in, historic inns to curl up in, and trailheads right outside your door. It’s the perfect mix of adventure and comfort! For couples who want breathtaking views without the pressure of a big wedding, it’s hard to beat this spot.
Where to Elope in Ouray
Yankee Boy Basin
Both of my couples (Ryan + Rylee and Baker + Irhet) exchanged vows in Yankee Boy Basin. The road itself is an adventure, with rocky 4WD trails that wind you higher into the mountains. The further up you go, the bigger the rocks get, but also the more epic the views.
Ryan + Rylee’s story: They originally dreamed of Blue Lakes, but since they’re from the Midwest, mountain driving felt a little intimidating. Instead, we made the drive part of the adventure—stopping at pull-offs and pretty spots that felt right in the moment. It was perfect, and such a reminder that eloping means you don’t have to follow a rigid plan. Check out more from their day here.
Baker + Irhet’s story: They stayed at The Western (a super cute inn in town) before heading into Yankee Boy Basin. On the way up, Irhet blasted “Your Love Is My Drug” by Kesha, windows down, great vibes. It was the perfect start to their mountain elopement adventure.
Quick note: Blue Lakes Trail is closed until 2026 due to recovery, but Yankee Boy Basin is a fantastic alternative.
Imogene Pass
For couples who want that “we made it to the top” feeling, Imogene Pass is unreal. The Jeep road is rugged and steep, but the views from the high alpine ridges are some of the most dramatic you’ll find anywhere in Colorado. It’s adventure at its peak (literally).
Red Mountain Pass
Just south of Ouray, this stretch of the San Juans is famous for its rust-red peaks and sweeping vistas. In the fall, it absolutely glows with golden aspens, making it one of the most colorful places you could possibly say your vows.
Cascade Falls + Box Cañon Falls
Want something closer to town (and easier to access)? These waterfalls are stunning and simple. Picture misty air, mossy canyon walls, and that roaring mountain water soundtrack while you exchange vows. Perfect for couples who want the magic of nature without a long drive.
Clear Lake + Alpine Lakes
If you’re dreaming of reflective alpine water surrounded by jagged peaks, lakes like Clear Lake deliver. They often take more effort to reach—either by 4WD or hiking—but the payoff is worth it. Think serene, tucked-away beauty for just the two of you.
Million Dollar Highway Pull-Offs
This iconic stretch of road between Ouray and Silverton is packed with jaw-dropping overlooks. No big hike required—just stop at a pull-off with epic views of cliffs, valleys, or alpine peaks, and you’ve got the perfect ceremony backdrop.
How to Choose the Right Spot
When you’re dreaming up your Ouray Colorado elopement, think about:
How comfortable you are with 4WD mountain roads
Whether you want to hike, Jeep, or keep it easy
The time of day (mountain light changes fast!)
How private or secluded you want it to feel
Always having a backup plan in case of weather or road closures
When to Elope in Ouray
If you want those epic mountain views, the best time to elope in Ouray is late June through early October. That’s when the alpine roads are open and the wildflowers are showing off. July and August are peak for greenery and blooms, while September and early October bring golden aspens and crisp air.
Winter in Ouray is magical in town—ice climbing, frozen waterfalls, cozy cabins—but most of the high alpine roads (like Yankee Boy) are closed until summer.
Getting to Your Ouray Colorado Elopement
If you’re flying in, the closest airport is Montrose Regional Airport, just 45 minutes from town. You can also fly into Denver International Airport and make the 5–6 hour drive, which is stunning but definitely longer.
Once you’re in Ouray, you’ll want a 4WD vehicle or Jeep if you’re planning to head up into Yankee Boy Basin or similar trails. More info on this below!
Marriage License Info
Here’s the practical stuff you need:
Where to go: Ouray County Clerk & Recorder’s Office (in Ridgway, about 15 minutes from Ouray).
What to bring: Valid IDs and $30.
Colorado perk: You don’t need an officiant or witnesses—you can self-solemnize your marriage! Many couples sign right in the mountains.
Places to Stay in Ouray
Whether you want cozy, historic, or adventurous, there are plenty of places to stay for your Ouray elopement:
The Western Hotel — historic and charming
Airbnbs & cabins — private and perfect for getting ready
Ouray Hot Springs Inn — ideal for soaking post-elopement
Yurts & mountain cabins — unique, tucked-away stays
Getting Around: Jeep Rentals
If you’re heading into Yankee Boy Basin or exploring other high alpine trails, a Jeep is your best friend. The roads up here are rocky, rugged, and sometimes a little wild—but that’s what makes them so much fun.
Ouray has several local rental companies with lifted Jeeps built specifically for this terrain. One of my favorites is Colorado West Jeeps. They’ll set you up with everything you need to feel confident heading into the mountains.
And if driving steep mountain roads makes your stomach flip (you’re not alone!), many of these companies also offer guided tours where an experienced driver takes the wheel. It’s the perfect way to soak up the epic views without worrying about every bump and switchback.
What Makes Elopements in Ouray Special
Eloping here isn’t just about the views…it’s about the experience. Both of my couples had little details woven into their days that made it uniquely them.
Cake Picnics
For both couples, I brought along cakes (something I love offering to my elopement and micro-wedding couples). After their vows, they cozied up for a little picnic, cutting into their cake with mountain peaks all around them. It’s such a sweet (literally!) way to mark the moment. You could also bring a charcuterie board, favorite snacks, or even a thermos of hot chocolate, some local brews/champagne or coffee for a cozy, personalized celebration.
Flexibility & Flow
With Baker + Irhet, we paused for an extra half-hour so she could redo her hair until she loved it. With no strict timeline or guests waiting, she had the freedom to take her time. That’s the beauty of elopements, your day bends to your needs, not the other way around. You can take multiple outfit changes, stop for photos at hidden viewpoints, or even pause to just breathe it all in.
Making It a Weekend
Eloping in Ouray is the perfect excuse to turn your wedding into a full weekend getaway. The mountains, waterfalls, and charming town of Ouray give you endless ways to celebrate beyond just the ceremony. Start your day with a scenic drive or short hike, soak in the hot springs to relax, explore the local shops and cafés, or simply cozy up together and take in the views.
Here’s an example of how a weekend might flow:
Wednesday: Arrive in Ouray, settle into a cozy inn or cabin, and enjoy a relaxed evening having a nice dinner, soaking in the hot springs, or wandering Main Street.
Thursday: Elopement day! Morning adventure or hike, ceremony at your chosen spot, and a little picnic with cake and/or your favorite snacks. Capture portraits, take in the views, and celebrate just the two of you (plus any pups you bring along). If you’d like, you can also invite a few friends or family for a small, intimate reception afterward. Think cozy toasts, bites, and celebrating together. Choosing a weekday for your ceremony makes a big difference since trails and Jeep roads (especially in Yankee Boy Basin) are much less crowded. It also makes the drive safer and easier on those narrow one-way stretches.
Friday: Spend the day exploring a new trail, visiting a waterfall, or taking a Jeep ride/tour up a nearby pass. Then relax in the evening with a celebratory dinner.
Saturday–Sunday: If you want to stretch it out, keep the adventure going with more hikes, hot springs, or even a scenic drive along the Million Dollar Highway before heading home.
The beauty of an Ouray elopement is that you can shape it around your energy, your style, and your sense of adventure. No rush, no crowds, just a weekend designed entirely for you.
Tips for Planning Your Ouray Elopement
Plan for extra travel time on mountain roads. Even short distances take longer.
Pack layers, mountain weather changes fast.
Bring snacks and water (and don’t forget altitude can sneak up on you).
Work with a photographer who knows the area (hi, that’s me!!). Having been here multiple times, I can help you plan the perfect adventure and keep it stress-free.
Ready to Elope in Ouray?
If you’re dreaming of mountain peaks, wildflower valleys, and a day built entirely around you and your love, Ouray might just be your perfect spot. After photographing two love stories here, I’d love to help make your day unforgettable too.
Inquire below to start planning your Ouray Colorado elopement!
Film From Baker + Irhet’s Day
Vendors
Photo & Video - etc photography
Baker + Irhet's bouquet - Joyful Poppy
