PLANNING, WEDDINGS, ELOPEMENTS
OURAY, COLORADO

Ouray, Colorado is a beautiful mountain town located in the heart of the San Juan Mountains. Ouray is surrounded by gorgeous mountain views and trails you won’t forget. As a full-time Ouray resident, I am very familiar with the trails, hiking, and jeeping. I’m here to tell you all my favorite places and help you decide where to elope in Ouray!

​There are mountains, alpine lakes, aspen forests, pine forests, and canyons. Ouray flies under the radar competing with places like Telluride and Aspen, but I’m here to convince you that it’s the place to elope! Especially if you are looking for a unique, amazing-view experience full of history (and good food). Ouray is perfect for couples that want to go against the traditional grain and plan a truly unique elopement experience unlike anyone else!

BLACK BEAR PASS

Black Bear Pass is an amazing place to elope. Jeeping up 550, The Million Dollar Highway, and then way up the mountainside. There is even a small alpine lake that makes gorgeous photos on the way up. You can even Jeep down the other side into Telluride and have a bit to eat at The Brown Dog (that’s what I do). Trust me these views will not disappoint and Black Bear Pass is a well-known, difficult trail, perfect for any adventuresome couple!

​TOP OF THE PINES

Top of the Pines is an outstandingly beautiful outdoor recreation area, environmental education base camp, special event destination, and open space preserve. Located at the foot of the Sneffels Range in southwest Colorado and in close proximity to Ouray,  Ridgway, and Telluride, this 175-acre wilderness jewel offers local communities and visitors a remarkable place to learn, recreate, and celebrate, while also providing an inspiring gathering place for everyone interested in exploring the beauty of the San Juans. This is a jaw-dropping location, sure to impress!

​CASCADE FALLS

Visible from nearly anywhere in Ouray, Cascade Falls is an impressive sight. Falls Park is the lowermost of a series of seven waterfalls in Cascade Creek. The top waterfall in the series is Upper Cascade Falls. Surrounded by beautiful pine trees and a rocky landscape, this gorgeous waterfall is a well-known Ouray icon.

​YANKEE BOY BASIN

As one of the most recognized areas in the San Juan Mountains,  Yankee Boy Basin is considered the gateway to the Sneffels’ Mountain Range. Framed by spectacular 13,000 and 14,000 ft. peaks such as Pitosi, Teakettle, Cirque, Stony Mountain, and of course, Mount Sneffels, the trail is visually dramatic, yet offers a mild climb through colorful canyon walls, abundantly lined with Aspen and Pine. Home to Colorado wildflowers such as Columbine, Paintbrush, Larkspur, and Cow Parsnip, it is a wildflower enthusiasts’ haven. It’s also my top choice in the late fall as the prolific Aspens turn a brilliant gold! ​

PERIMETER TRAIL/POTATO PATCH

The Ouray ​Perimeter Trail has several great locations, perfect for small weddings or elopements. The “Potato Patch,” where miners actually grew potatoes over a century ago, is a gorgeous meadow with great views of Mt. Abrams. It is surrounded by gorgeous aspen trees and makes a stunning, intimate location. 

HOPEFULLY, YOU’VE FOUND THIS LIST HELPFUL AND WILL CONSIDER ONE OF THESE STUNNING LOCATIONS FOR
YOUR ELOPEMENT!

I’d love to be your photographer for your perfect day in Ouray! Contact me today so that we can discuss your vision.

For more information about eloping in Ouray, read my How to Elope in Ouray Guide!