Crested Butte Elopement Guide // Colorado Wildflower Weddings
Hey there, mountain lovers! If you're dreaming of saying "I do" surrounded by breathtaking views and wildflower meadows that'll make your heart skip a beat, you're in the right place. As adventure seekers, we’ve spent countless days exploring the hidden corners of Crested Butte (and helped amazing couples create unforgettable days), we’re here to share all our fave spots and insider tips for your Crested Butte elopement.
Our goal is to ensure that couples choosing to elope here enjoy the beauty of nature, breathtaking views, and unique seasonal offerings—whether it's wildflowers or fall foliage. Despite being off the beaten path, the quiet and secluded remote locations are surprisingly easy to reach. We want every couple to have a genuine and memorable elopement experience surrounded by the natural charm of this place. Ready for all the deets? Let’s go!
Why Elope in Crested Butte?
First off, let's chat about why Crested Butte is basically the dream spot for an intimate mountain celebration:
The VIEWS – We're talking panoramic mountain vistas that'll have your jaw on the floor
Wildflower capital of Colorado – In summer, the meadows explode with color (hello, perfect backdrop!)
That charming small-town feel – The historic downtown is just so cute and has amazing food options, boutiques, custom hat shops, you name it!
Adventure opportunities – Whether you want to hike, horseback ride, canoe, or just chill with champagne in a meadow, CB has you covered
Less crowded than other mountain towns – More privacy for your special moments
Accessibility – Beautiful spots that don't require you to trek for miles in your wedding attire (because let’s admit it, we’re not doing that)
Best Time to Elope in Crested Butte
Each season in Crested Butte brings its own special magic, but if you're dreaming of a wildflower wedding (which, um, yes please!), here's the best time to elope:
Late June – Early wildflowers starting to pop with fewer crowds
July & August – Peak wildflower season! The mountains are literally COVERED in a rainbow of blooms
Early September – Just starting to get those gorgeous fall colors
Late September to early October – Full-on fall magic with golden aspens
PRO TIP: Weekdays are your BFFs for a Crested Butte elopement - way fewer people around, meaning more privacy for your special moments.
How to Plan Your Crested Butte Elopement (The No-Stress Way)
Planning should be as fun as the day itself! Here's how we make that happen:
Step 1: Hire your photographer & planner (hi, that's us!)
Let's be real – having someone who knows Crested Butte like the back of their hand makes everything easier. We'll handle all the tricky stuff so you can focus on the fun parts. Those secret spots you won't find with a Google search? Yeah, we know them all.
Step 2: Choose your perfect location
Choosing your location is one of the most important decisions in this whole process (right up there with your attire & florals). It sets the scene for your entire experience & photo gallery. Don't worry though – that's exactly why we're here to help you choose the perfect "I do" spot & lodging.
Here's the thing – we've spent countless hours exploring every hidden corner of Crested Butte, finding secret waterfalls and secluded meadows that you won't find on any travel blog. We keep these magical spots under wraps to preserve their intimacy (and wow factor!) for our couples. Think of it as our way of making sure your day feels truly special and off-the-beaten-path.
While we don't share our exclusive locations publicly, here are some general areas to consider for your Crested Butte elopement:
Alpine Lakes
Crested Butte offers everything from drive-up lakes to hidden alpine gems reached by short hikes. Some couples love incorporating water activities like paddle boarding or canoes into their day!
Mountain Passes
Not into hiking on your wedding day? No problem! There are several stunning mountain passes you can drive to for jaw-dropping views without the trek (4WD required).
Wildflower Meadows
During peak season (July through August), the hillsides burst with color – bonus when your florals match the blooms!
Riverside Locations
The Slate River offers some of the most scenic spots in Colorado with epic mountain backdrops – and many are accessible right from the road!
When you book with us, you'll get access to our exclusive Crested Butte location guide with all our secret spots, custom-tailored recommendations based on your vision, accessibility needs, and the season. We'll help you find that perfect spot that speaks to your hearts – one that you definitely won't find with a quick Google search!
Step 3: Pick your date
Once we've chatted about what vibe you're going for, we'll help you choose the perfect date. Remember, weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, so we always have backup plans ready to go.
Step 4: Book your dreamy stay
Where you wake up and get ready sets the tone for your whole day (& wedding weekend experience)! Here are some of our favorite places to stay:
Luxury Mountain Homes
This stunning mountain retreat with panoramic views and hot tub
Cozy cabin with modern touches just minutes from downtown
Spacious mountain home perfect for hosting a few loved ones
In-Town Options
Elk Mountain Lodge – Historic charm right in the heart of town
The Scarp Ridge Lodge – Elevated mountain luxury at its finest
Purple Mountain B&B – Cozy and welcoming with the best breakfast in town
Step 5: Plan the details that matter
This is where we shine! We'll help you craft a day that feels 100% like you. Want to:
Start with sunrise first look at a mountain overlook?
Have a guided wildflower hike after your ceremony?
Arrange a private chef for an intimate dinner?
Book a horseback ride through meadows of blooms?
Canoe on an alpine lake as the sun sets?
Yes to all of it (sounds like the best day ever)! We'll connect you with our trusted local vendors who'll help make your vision come to life.
Step 6: Get married (& honeymoon in the same place!)
All the planning comes together for a day that flows effortlessly. You'll be fully present in every moment while we capture all the magic.
Make Your Crested Butte Elopement Uniquely Yours
The absolute best part about eloping? You get to throw the rulebook out the window and create a day that feels 100% like you. No traditions you don't connect with, no pleasing distant relatives, just a celebration that reflects who you are as a couple and what matters most to you.
Your wedding day shouldn't feel like you're following someone else's script. It should be a day where you're fully present, creating memories that actually matter to you both. But remember, there's no right or wrong way to celebrate your love. The only thing that matters is that your day feels authentic to who you are together. That authenticity is what makes for truly emotional, meaningful photos that you'll treasure forever.
When you work with us, we'll help you brainstorm ways to make your day personal and special, connecting you with vendors who can bring your vision to life. Because a day that feels like you will always be more beautiful than one that just looks good on Instagram.
Explore Crested Butte: Where to Eat, Shop & Unwind
Part of what makes a Crested Butte elopement so special is getting to experience this charming mountain town like a local. Here are some of our favorite spots that we always recommend to our couples:
Where to Eat
Breadery – The perfect spot for a cozy, upscale dinner. Their artisanal bread and wood-fired dishes are absolute heaven after a day of adventure (seriously, the best date night vibe!)
Montanya Distillers – Amazing craft cocktails and small plates in a beautiful space (perfect for a post-ceremony toast!)
Third Bowl Ice Cream – Small-batch, locally made ice cream with unique flavors (ice cream after elopement photos is always a good idea!)
Where to Shop & Explore
Bjorkstam Hat Co. – If you're looking for a custom, handcrafted hat with Western-chic vibes to wear during your elopement (or as a keepsake), this is your spot
Favor the Kind – This cute boutique is filled with stylish home goods and gifts—perfect for finding something special to remember your trip
Crested Butte Farmers Market – If you're here on a Sunday (May-October), don't miss the local produce and artisan goods
Ready to Plan Your Dream Crested Butte Elopement?
We'd be over the moon to help you craft a day that feels effortless, intentional, and completely true to you. Our team specializes in creating intimate celebrations in the most beautiful parts of Colorado, handling all the details so you can focus on what really matters – each other.
If you're dreaming of saying your vows surrounded by wildflowers with the mountains as your witness, let's chat! Get in touch here and let's start planning your perfect Crested Butte elopement together.
Want more of our expert tips for planning your mountain celebration? Grab our free elopement planning checklist to make sure you don't miss a thing!
We can't wait to be your guides to all the magic Crested Butte has to offer! For even more info on our Crested Butte elopement process, head here!
