What to Know Before a Snowy Colorado Elopement

If you’re looking for the perfect snow-filled, winter wonderland elopement destination, there’s no place like Colorado. From glittering, icy alpine lakes to trails fresh with fallen snow, no footprints to be found, Colorado is the perfect winter backdrop. There are endless views that could rival the most beautiful snowcapped mountain landscapes all over the world. It’s no wonder, so many couples choose to get married in this dreamy place all year round. And I can’t think of a better place than the Colorado mountains for a whimsical winter elopement.

Heavenly views aside, getting around through the snow can be a challenge. Not to mention, a lot of roads close during the winter due to dangerous conditions. If you’re planning a snowy colorado elopement, there are a few things you need to know. Here are some of my best tips for making sure your elopement is everything you could ever dream of.

Getting Around in the Snow

First things first, the most important part of planning a snowy colorado elopement is knowing how you’ll get around in the snow. Whether you’re planning to drive to your ceremony location, snowmobile, or you want to hike, there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind.

Driving

Driving in Colorado winters can be difficult—especially if you’re off-roading or not in a highly trafficked area. In the winter you’ll want to make sure you have chains on your tires to ensure you’re safe on steep inclines. You’ll also want to make sure you check the road conditions and closures before heading out. The weather can change in the blink of an eye and it’s wise to be prepared. Make sure you have a backup location (or two) ready to go in case there are road closures to your destination.

Snowmobiling

Snowmobiling can be an epic, adventurous way to start off your elopement. Not to mention, it’s a great way to get around in the snow. There are plenty of places you can rent snowmobiles, especially if you’re near ski resort towns. Snowmobiling can be great if your location is hard to get to by car.

Hiking

My absolute favorite way of getting to the ceremony location is by hiking. But hiking in the winter and deep, fluffy snow can be difficult. I recommend making sure you have plenty of layers, including snow pants and high-quality snow boots. Again, it’s wise to make sure there aren’t any trail or road closures before heading out. Another great option is snowshoeing. This can be a fun way to get to your location when the snow is super deep and hard to walk through.

What You Should Pack

Packing for a snowy Colorado elopement can seem overwhelming. You’re probably going to need several larger suitcases or bags to hold all of your snow and wedding gear (unless you already live in Colorado). 

But if you’re not sure what exactly to pack, here is a quick checklist of things you might need:

• Snow boots
• Snow pants
• Warm mittens, hats, and scarves
• Waterproof coat
• Hand and feet warmers
• Thick, wool socks
• Base layers
• Extra clothes
• Sunscreen
• And, of course, all of your wedding attire

While this list may be suitable for some couples, if you’re not planning on doing a lot of hiking or exploring aside from getting to your ceremony location, you might not need all of this gear. However, even if you’re driving to your location, I recommend packing a few essentials (think extra socks, mittens, hand/feet warmers, extra shoes, car blanket, etc.) just in case.

Are You Hiking? 

If you’re hiking to your ceremony spot, there are a few tips and tricks I recommend for snowy hikes. First, if you’re able to, I recommend packing a pop-up changing tent. This way you can wear your warm, snowproof hiking gear and change into your wedding attire when you get closer to your ceremony spot. A pop-up tent will also shield you from any wind while you’re changing. It’s also definitely wise for both couples to bring a backpack to ensure you’re not missing anything.

What should you put in your backpack? Here are a few things:

• Thermos full of your favorite warm drink or hot soup
• Blanket to cuddle under (and for some cute, intimate pics)
• Extra socks, mittens, scarves, and even base layers
• Hand and feet warmers
• Sunglasses (the snow can really reflect the sun)
• Hiking poles in case it’s difficult to trek through the snow
• Sunscreen (you’d be surprised by how many people get sunburnt in Colorado during the winter)

Hiking in the snow can be extremely rewarding and absolutely beautiful, but it’s essential to be prepared. If you’re still not sure what you should pack or if you’re bringing the right gear, I am more than happy to help you put together a list so you’re snowy Colorado elopement goes absolutely perfectly.

Where You Should Stay for Snowy Views

One of the best parts about having an elopement in the winter is the breathtaking views. There is nothing better than looking out your window and seeing the most immaculate, snow-capped peaks glittering in the distance with whimsical evergreen forests in the valleys below. Finding the perfect place to stay can be hard, but I have a few ideas.

I recommend checking Airbnb first. This way you’ll be able to find a house that’s big enough to fit you and anyone else who might be staying with you, but also with incredible views. My next recommendation is to check out ski resort towns. They are filled with lodging for winter adventure seekers, and often boast pretty remarkable views. Some of my favorite areas of Colorado to stay for the best views are Durango, Vail, Loveland, Winter Park, and Telluride.

While this guide is just a starting point for planning your snowy Colorado elopement, I hope you found some of the information useful. As an elopement photographer, I absolutely love helping my couples plan their elopements. And, as a new resident of Colorado myself, I am itching to get out there and explore more places with my couples. If you’re ready to start planning your perfect, snowy Colorado elopement, contact me today and let’s get started!