ski elopement photo in Colorado

The 15 Best Colorado Ski Elopement Destinations

15 Best Colorado Ski Elopement Destinations

Ski Elopement Destination Ideas

Why Choose Colorado for your ski elopement Destination

Winter elopements are IN & ski elopements are all the hype. In the photography world little brings me as much joy than when a couple tells me they want their elopement to be centered around their love and their favorite adventure – aka the thing that brought them closer together, what has brought them endless joy, has lead to many road trips and adventures across the pond – needless to say I am a sucker for an adventure elopement. And when that adventure is SKIING – count me in!

Spending nearly the last decade of winters traveling across the state, country, and world seeking out the best ski spots with my husband – I have complied a list of the best Colorado ski elopement destinations depending on the vibe you are looking for. Perhaps for your ski elopement you are hunting for powder and a cozy cabin, or maybe you are all about technical terrain, or maybe your looking for stunning views, a lively apres scene, and a luxury hotel. Whatever you are looking for – Colorado has it all.

If you are looking into Colorado Ski Elopement Destinations, be sure to check out my How to Have an Epic Ski Elopement – to help you sort out the details!

Let’s Document Your Ski Elopement

If you are pondering ski elopement destinations in Colorado, it is important to know that there are two mega passes in Colorado – the IKON pass and the EPIC pass, each give you access to different resorts. In addition, there are independent mountains and smaller collectives. The independent mountains offer their own season passes and often partner with other indy mountains to give their locals a few days at other resorts in the state. Both will offer you great options for a ski elopement – but keep reading to find out which resort and pass will fulfill your Colorado ski elopement dreams.

Why is this important?
Well, if you already have a pass it will be a major cost saver to choose a ski elopement destination, that is included in your existing pass. If you do not have a annual pass and are thinking of saying “I Do” at a ski mountain in Colorado, you receive big discounts if you purchase your pass early (April).

View Ski Elopement Destination Packages

IKON v. Epic Pass

View IKON Mtns. View Epic Mtns. View Indy Mtns.

Colorado Ski Elopement Destinations: EPIC Mountains

Breckenridge

Thinking of ski elopement destinations in Colorado and you’re looking for a fun time, endless terrain options, a lively town, and all the amenities of a big ski resort, Breckenridge might be the perfect spot for your ski elopement! Breck is home to five mountains (Peaks 6–10) with a TON of diverse terrain to explore. For advanced skiers, you’ll find high alpine bowls, hike-to terrain, chutes, and tree runs. But don’t worry—Breckenridge is also super beginner-friendly, with plenty of mellow runs for all levels.

Why Breckenridge

  • The Town:
    Breckenridge has all the charm of an old western town, packed with amazing restaurants, lively après spots, and classic dive bars. You’ll also find tons of shops, from western wear to high-end ski apparel. No matter where you go in town you will have amazing backdrops for your Colorado ski elopement.
  • The Mountain:
    Diverse & fun terrain
    Expansive ski area to explore
    Great for all skill levels
  • Accommodations:
    Breckenridge offers a wide range of lodging options to fit any style. Stay in a cozy ski-in cabin tucked away in the mountains, book a luxury hotel with spa services and heated pools overlooking the slopes, or opt for a condo right in town for easy access to restaurants, shops, and nightlife. Whether you’re looking for a romantic retreat or a high-end resort experience, Breck has it all.
  • Travel Time from Denver:
    Close to Denver – Approx. 1 hr 45 min
  • The Catch:
    Breck is popular – it is on the Epic Pass, close to Denver, and a Colorado staple – needless to say – it gets BUSY. Highly reccomend having a wedding or elopement on a weekday.

Vail

Luxury in the front range. I honestly think it is hard to beat Vail on a powder day, especially on a weekday. Vail is infamous for a reason and their famous Back Bowls and Blue Sky Basin are truly unique to their resort. Vail is great for all skiers – I highly recommend this magical resort for a weekday Colorado ski elopement.

Why Vail

  • The Mountain:
    Legendary back bowls
    Fun tree runs
    Very diverse terrain
  • The Village:
    Looking for a European ski town feel in the US for your ski elopement? Then this is the place: pedestrian only streets, ice skating, fun shops, up-scale bowling, great restaurants, luxury accommodations, you will never run out of things to do in this village. On top of that? It is absolutely charming, a magical place for your ski elopement.
  • Accommodations:
    Vail offers a wide range of lodging options to fit any ski elopement style. Stay in a cozy but high end ski-in/out cabin with a private hot tub, or book a luxury hotel with 5 star amenities in town for easy access to restaurants, shops, and nightlife. Whether you’re looking for a romantic retreat or a high-end resort experience, Vail has luxurious options, perfect for celebrating your elopement
  • Travel Time from Denver:
    Close to Denver – Approx. 2hrs
  • The Catch:
    Vail is one of the most popular ski resorts in Colorado, which means it can get BUSY. If you’re planning to elope here, I highly recommend a weekday and avoiding school breaks for a more intimate experience.
Colorado Winter Elopement

Beaver Creek

While Beaver Creek is on the smaller side compared to its neighbors on the Epic Pass (Vail & Breckenridge) – it still offers fun terrain, including some great tree runs. Beaver Creek tends to draw smaller crowds given that you have to drive by Vail to get there from Denver. The atmosphere here leans much more resort(y) opposed to other mountains with a vibrant town atmosphere – however, if you are looking for exclusivity, luxury, fun skiing, and small crowds – Beaver Creek could be perfect for you. 

Why Beaver Creek

  • The Mountain:
    Fun Dispersed Tree Runs
    Small Crowds
    Oh UM AND COOKIES
  • The Village:
    Beaver Creek Village is complete with heated sidewalks, European charm, and cute eateries. When you think Beaver Creek – think RESORT. This is not a large and lively town, but home to smaller crowds and elevated experiences. 
  • Accommodations:
    Given that Beaver Creek is a smaller high end resort – there are luxury hotel options, along with ski-in/out rentals. 
  • Travel Time from Denver:
    Close to Denver – Approx. 2.5hrs
  • The Catch:
    I would not recommend this to expert skiers who are hoping to get in lots of turns on extreme terrain all day. While the tree runs are fun – the mountain has less terrain to work with and lots of groomed options for families and beginners to intermediate skiers. 

Keystone

Keystone is also on the Epic Pass and is very close to Denver making it a convenient location. Unique to Keystone, is the fact that they also offer night skiing – which can offer couples wanting to elope at sunrise – which provides for stunning backdrops. If you are looking at ski elopement destinations that are in proximity to the air port, Keystone could be a great choice for you.

Why Keystone

  • The Mountain:
    Close to Denver
    Laid-back vibes
    Offers night skiing – sunset photos anyone?
  • The Village:
    Keystone has a much smaller, more laid back vibe. While the village is smaller, there are still good choices for apres and restaurants.  
  • Accommodations:
    Given that Keystone is a smaller there won’t be as many options as a bigger town will have – but there is lots of convenient lodging close to the mountain from hotels, to condos! 
  • Travel Time from Denver:
    Close to Denver – Approx. 1.5hrs
  • The Catch:
    I would not recommend this to expert skiers who are hoping to get in lots of turns on extreme terrain all day and if you are looking for a lively town with lots to do – this will not be the place for you.

Crested Butte

If you’re thinking of of ski elopement destinations, please add CB to your list. I LOVE Crested Butte, with epic landscapes, fun terrain, and a charming town – Crested Butte has everything you need for an elopement. Additionally, although it is on the Epic Pass – it takes a whooping 4 hours (at least) to get there from Denver so it generally draws fewer crowds. The mountain itself has a very laid back vibe, think great skiing, beers on the patio, and iconic backdrops. 

Why Crested Butte

  • The Mountain:
    Extreme terrain options
    Laid-back vibes
    Even if you are not an extreme skier, there are still plenty of options
  • The Village:
    Crested Butte is so CHARMING – fun apres vibes, great places to eat, fun bars, and cute shops. 

  • Accommodations:
    There are lots of AirBnB options from big houses, to ski-in/out condos, there are also plenty of hotel options!
  • Travel Time from Denver:
    Close to Denver – Approx. 4hrs
  • The Catch:
    In my option good snow makes a big difference here – so keep an eye on the forecast leading up to your big day.
Ikon Elopement Colorado

Telluride

With the full Epic Pass you also get 7 days at: Telluride. Oh the San Juans, this is one of the most rad ski elopement destinations! This is a stunning region in Colorado, to say I am obsessed is an understatement. Telluride holds an old western charm, stunning scenery, and lots to do! Check out more about Telluride in my Top Places to Elope in Colorado post. 

Why Telluride

  • The Mountain:
    Home to steep and technical terrain
    Diverse trail options that caters to all levels of skiing
    Less crowded then mountains on I-70 – keeping lift lines short and crowds to a minimum 
  • The Village:
    Looking for old-school western charm – then look no further than Telluride, Colorado. The town has amazing food, classic apres spots, and cozy bards. Compared to some of the busier towns Telluride can really feel like a relaxing escape.  

  • Accommodations:
    Options galore – you can find luxury hotels and fun AirBnB’s and VRBOS. 
  • Travel Time from Denver:
    Approx. 6hrs from Denver. There is also a smaller airport in Montrose that is only about an hour away!
  • The Catch:
    Telluride is from Denver can make it more difficult to get to especially in the winter. Additionally, while lively if you are looking for a big party scene this might not be the best spot for you, Lastly, Telluride is iconic and that can come with an expensive price tag.

Colorado Ski Destinations:
IKON Mountains

Ski Elopement Destinations

Steamboat

Looking for ski elopement destinations with western flare, fun downtown, great ski runs, and relaxing hot springs – well then Steamboat might be the ideal choice for you! One of my favorite getaway destinations in Colorado. 

Why Steamboat

  • The Mountain:
    Majestic views
    Some of the best tree skiing
    Large and diverse terrain
  • The Village:
    I listed Steamboat as one of my Top Places to Elope, and for good reason – it is the ultimate escape. You can ski all day, apres in town, eat top notch food, then soak the night away at Strawberry hotsprings. 

  • Accommodations:
    Options galore – you can find luxury hotels and fun AirBnB’s and VRBOS. 
  • Travel Time from Denver:
    Close to Denver – Approx. 2.45 hrs
  • The Catch:
    A little bit of a trek from Denver – which pending weather conditions can make it more difficult to get to. 

Copper

A classic – people who love Copper – LOVE COPPER. A super fun mountain that is family friendly! If you are looking to include a small number of friends and family, and you’re pondering ski elopement destinations that would be a good fit for everyone, this could be your spot!

Why Copper

  • The Mountain:
    Stunning views
    Diverse terrain
    Home to high-alpine bowls
  • The Village:
    Coppers village is smaller and less lively for nighttime crowds. However, if you are looking for accommodations close to the mountain and a great place to ski, Copper could be a great fit!

  • Accommodations:
    Hotels and AirBnB’s!
  • Travel Time from Denver:
    Approx. 1.5hr from Denver.
  • The Catch:
    The town is a little smaller and with its proximity to Denver and being on the IKON pass it can draw large crowds. 
Couple skiing in snowy landscape.

Winter Park

There are a lot of ski elopement destinations to consider in Colorado alone, but Winter Park should be up there on your list. Winter Park has fun runs & rad vibes. They truly have options for everyone, from awesome trees, to mellow groomers. You can have a cook out in the Mary Jane parking lot then hit the slopes – there is even a parking lot you can park your camper van overnight if you’re looking for an authentic ski weekend elopement!

Why Winter Park

  • The Mountain:
    Local vibes 
    High alpine bowls
    Fun tree skiing
    2 sides of the mountain: Winter Park offers more mellow terrain 
    Mary Jane is home to terrain for more advanced skiers
  • The Village:
    Small base village with options for bars and restaurants. 

  • Accommodations:
    Hotels and AirBnB’s
  • Travel Time from Denver:
    Approx. 1.5hr from Denver.
  • The Catch:
    The village is on the smaller side and with its proximity to Denver and being on the IKON pass it can draw large crowds. 

Aspen

I mean Aspen is iconic for a reason, it is skiing with luxury at it’s core. 5 star hotels, top notch restaurants, and shops that will have you feeling that you are on the Rodeo Drive of the ski world. When narrowing down ski elopement destinations Aspen gives you the best of both worlds, great skiing at one of three resorts, or in the backcountry while also providing a very luxe vibe for your elopement.

The Details:
If you have the Ikon Pass (not base or season pass) you get 7 days at 
Aspen Snowmass (Mountain Collective too) 
Buttermilk
Aspen Highlands

Arapahoe Basin

Fun, technical terrain offerings and a real locals mountain without a resort.

The Details:
Close to Denver
Jaw Dropping Views
Diverse and fun landscape
Laidback/party vibe at the “beach” 
Close to Keystone for lodging options

Eldora Mountain

A laid back, chill locals mountain.

The Details:
Close to Denver
Small and Laidback

Colorado Ski Destinations:
INDY Mountains

Couple skiing in snowy landscape.

Loveland

The Mountain:
Small crowds (have never waited in a lift line) 
Close to Denver 
Affordable day pass 
Stunning views
The Catch: There is no resort or accommodations at the mountain. However, you are not far from Denver. There are also great options near Keystone Resort (west) or Georgetown(east). 

Monarch

The Mountain
On Monarch Pass so access to BV and Salida, check out Top Places to Elope in Colorado to learn more about these towns
A small resort with jaw-dropping views
Local and laid back vibes
Inexpensive lift tickets
Lots of backcountry skiing in the area, so if you are looking for a multiday elopement with one day touring and another day resort skiing, Monarch could be a great option
The Catch: No village or resort options and approx. 3 hrs from Denver. 

Cheeseman Park Wedding - photo at Mount Falcon

Wolfcreek

Looking at ski elopement destinations that are a little more wild and untamed, but still at a resort? Please consider Wolf Creek, not only does it get the most snow in Colorado, it is truly a locals mountain, a great place to escape the crowd and find a private spot to share your vows.
The Mountain:
Reports the most snow in Colorado – truly unbelievable powder days
Great for couples who really want to focus on skiing – there are no frills here 
Local laid back vibe
Affordable Lift Tickets
Backcountry Access 
The Catch: If you cannot tell, I love Wolf Creek! However, it is important to note there is no resort or accommodations at the mountain. You have to stay down the pass on one side or the other in either Pagosa Springs or South Fork. It is harder to get to – if you and your partner are looking for an extreme elopement and love spending time in a van or camper – that could also be a great option!

Cooper

The Mountain
Located in Leadville which is also home to the stunning Twin Lakes.
Natural snow 
Great for beginners 
No lift lines
Least expensive lift tickets in Colorado 
The Catch: Given that it is a small mountain – the terrain is limited. There is also no resort or village. 

Silverton

The Mountain
Stunning views of the San Juans
Affordable lodging options & small quiet village
Great for intermediate skiers while also offering some expert terrain 
The Catch: For experts only.  

a bride getting ready for a winter wedding

Purgatory

The Mountain
In the San Juans – aka my favorite region in Colorado
For expert skiers only. 
1 chair lift + a hike or heliski to a paradise of backcountry skiing 
Guides available 
The Catch: Limited expert terrain & not a great option for couples looking for a lively night scene.  

INCREDIBLE! Casey is extremely talented. She had many ideas prepared to give us more than just standard portraits. We ended up doing a morning photoshoot at Mt. Falcon and then she came into the city to shoot our microwedding ceremony at Cheesman Park Pavilion. She was so attentive to our needs and they came out beautifully! So easy to work with, very organized, and so calm and patient – we really appreciated that when we had all the wedding day giggles and jitters! Highly recommend working with Casey for any photoshoot needs, but especially for your most important moments. You will be in the best hands with Casey.

-Allie and Grant

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