Are you dreaming of a wedding day that feels more like an adventure than a traditional ceremony? If so, continue reading. Colorado and Utah are packed with incredible, off-the-beaten-path spots that are perfect for couples who want to ditch the venue and say their vows surrounded by nature. From hiking to high-alpine lakes to sand dunes to the red rocks of Moab, these locations are sought after, and known as some of the best in the world, by all sorts of nature enthusiasts and lovers.

Telluride, Colorado

Alpine lakes, high mountain passes, a picturesque main street, and golden aspens in the fall.

Why we love it: Telluride feels like a hidden gem. Think remote, rugged, and insanely beautiful. The hikes are worth the effort, especially in late September when the fall colors explode. One of our favorite locations :) There is certainly a reason that Telluride is on so many destination elopement photographer’s favorites lists.
Permits: Required for some trailheads and ceremony spots, but not most.
Best season: Mid-Summer for wildflowers and fall for the aspens

Bride and groom standing by a lake near Telluride, Colorado saying their vows.

Moab, Utah

Red rock monoliths, epic vistas, and sunsets that light up the sky.

Why we love it: Moab has that otherworldly vibe. You can hike, bike, or 4x4 to some truly surreal ceremony spots. Utah adventure elopement packages here can vary immensely based on how off the grid you want to be.
Permits: National Park or BLM permit required depending on location.
Best season: Spring and fall, early or late winter.

Couple holding hands on red rock wearing wedding attire in Moab, Utah.

Maroon Bells, Colorado

Iconic lake framed by jagged peaks surrounded by aspens.

Why we love it: It's one of the most photographed spots in Colorado for a reason, but we know how to find the quieter corners nearby for a more private experience. Honestly, the whole mountain range is a Colorado adventure elopement dream come true.
Permits: Required + limited shuttle access, early planning is necessary.
Best season: June through early October

Bride and groom saying their vows near a lake by the Maroon Bells in Aspen, Colorado.

Zion National Park, Utah

Towering sandstone cliffs, slot canyons, and epic views.

Why we love it: The landscapes in Zion are straight out of a dream (and quite frankly, mind-blowing). It’s the perfect blend of epic and intimate. The park gets busy, so it’s good to plan elopements here in advance.
Permits: Yes, via the National Park Service.
Best season: Spring and fall

Crested Butte, Colorado

Wildflowers, alpine meadows, and colorful, off-grid vibes. Winter weddings for the bold.

Why we love it: The perfect spot if you’re craving wildflowers, as it’s a wildflower wonderland. Gorgeous high-alpine views, charming downtown, and very laid back. It’s also a ski town classic and winter weddings here can be very cool!
Permits: Varies by trail
Best season: Mid-June to early August. March-April for the winter vibes

A couple getting married in the snowy peaks near Crested Butte, Colorado.

Dead Horse Point, Utah

Panoramic canyon views with fewer people than Canyonlands. Towering sandstone.

Why we love it: It's a quieter alternative to Arches or Canyonlands, but just as stunning, especially at sunrise or sunset, where you can have the place to yourself.
Permits: Yes, required for ceremonies
Best season: Year-round, with cooler temps in spring/fall

Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado

Rolling dunes cupped by the Sangre de Cristo mountains, easily accessible, very unique.

Why we love it: Barefoot ceremonies. Sunset shadows. Stargazing. It’s perfect for couples looking for something totally different. The Great Sand Dunes never disappoint.
Permits: Yes, through NPS
Best season: Late spring and early fall

Indian couple running down the dunes holding hands at the Great Sand Dunes National Park.

Capitol Reef National Park, Utah

Unique desert landscapes, a stunning range of desert colors, natural arches, and few people.

Why we love it: Capitol Reef is underrated and under-visited, aka ideal for a quiet, romantic elopement. We could spend a month here and never get over it. There are also great options for night skies and camping. It feels so remote that people don’t think of it as a national park!
Permits: Yes
Best season: Spring and fall

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Alpine beauty with accessible trails and lakes. You can elope in Colorado with the mountainous views you dream of and still bring your grandma, it’s that accessible.

Why we love it: If you’re looking for the classic Colorado big mountain views, then RMNP is for you. It’s super versatile for all types of couples; however, it can be busy, plan ahead!
Permits: Limited; book early
Best season: June through September

Bride and groom standing on a rock in wedding attire overlooking Rocky Mountain National Park

Bonneville Salt Flats, Utah

Minimalist, surreal, and extremely magical. What planet are we on?

Why we love it: If you want your elopement to look like a dream sequence, this is the place. Wide open skies and endless reflections. Want to get away from the masses? You’ll love it here.
Permits: May be needed depending on usage
Best season: Spring and fall (avoid wet seasons)