If you’ve been dreaming of a Colorado mountain elopement that feels like a secret little escape into nature, Crested Butte might just be your soulmate. This tiny mountain town is full of wildflower-covered meadows, alpine lakes, and winding dirt roads that lead to the kind of scenery that doesn’t even feel real. And the best part? It still feels quiet. Unlike other crowded Colorado destinations, Crested Butte keeps that tucked-away, untouched magic that makes it perfect for couples wanting something intentional, scenic, and completely unique to them. Chiara and Justice are living proof that a Crested Butte elopement can be both heartfelt and fun-as-hell. Their day was emotional, playful, and full of everything that made their relationship special, truck bed picnics, epic views, tears (Justice’s, mostly), and a freaking lake signing moment that needs to be framed forever!

Getting Ready in a Mountainside Airbnb (A Workout, Honestly)

I met Chiara and Justice (+ a few of Chiara’s sweet fam members) at their Airbnb, which, not to be dramatic was up six flights of stairs from the parking lot. Yes, I was out of breath. Yes, it was worth it! The light in their cozy little cabin-style living room was absolutely perfect for those pre-ceremony moments. Chiara looked like a dream, calm and glowy as she got ready. Meanwhile, Justice? A complete emotional puddle from the moment he saw her. Their first look happened right there in the Airbnb living room, and you could literally feel the love in that space.

Crested Butte Elopement Ceremony Location: Snodgrass Trailhead

If you’re planning your own Crested Butte elopement, Snodgrass Trailhead is such a gem. It’s scenic, accessible, and, here’s the kicker! You currently don’t need a permit to elope here! (Always double-check with local rangers just in case the rules change, though.) And please, please remember to Leave No Trace so spots like this can stay beautiful and open for others. Chiara and Justice exchanged their vows just off the trail, while Chiara’s family watched from the ridge above. It was the perfect balance of privacy and presence. They wanted to keep their vows intimate and quiet, just the two of them and the mountains, but still share that moment with the people who matter most. And yes, Justice cried again!

Post-Ceremony Truck Bed Picnic (Because Why the Heck Not?)

After the ceremony, we headed back to the parking lot, and this is where their personalities really shined. Chiara and Justice often go on truck bed picnics for fun, so of course they had to include one on their elopement day. It was the cutest moment: they popped champagne, cut cake, passed around cookies, and sat on the tailgate surrounded by wildflowers and love. Honestly? 10/10 recommend adding a little snack-and-sip moment to your elopement. It’s chill, it’s personal, and it gives you space to breathe it all in.

Exploring Gothic Road for Epic Elopement Portraits

Gothic Road is the holy grail of Crested Butte elopement photo spots. The views? UNREAL. But here’s the thing: if you want to make it to the best part, you need a 4WD vehicle with high clearance. I’m talkin’ Tacomas, 4Runners, Jeeps, anything that can handle a few rocky patches and a splash of river. If you’re not comfortable off-roading yourself, having a photographer (hi, it’s me) who’s down for the adventure is key. We drove through the water to the other side of the lake and it was literal perfection. That golden light hitting the valley, the wildflowers stretching forever, and these two just basking in the moment like it was their mountain. Which, honestly, it kind of was!

Lake Views, License Signing, and the Grand Finale

The final stop of the day was down at the lake, tucked between pine trees and snow-speckled peaks. They signed their marriage license on each other’s backs like two kids passing notes, it was silly, sweet, and so full of joy. By that point, we had hiked, laughed, kissed in wildflowers, popped bottles, and made a memory that felt less like a “wedding day” and more like a chapter in their favorite love story.

Sweet Words From The Couple

“Taylor was amazing! She’s very energetic and adventurous and willing to take you off the beaten path to take the most amazing pictures. We only got our sneak pictures back from our elopement and they look PHENOMENAL. We’re so excited to see the rest of the gallery. Her photos are truly a work of art.” – Chiara

I’m not crying, you’re crying.

So, Want to Plan Your Own Crested Butte Elopement? Let’s Chat!

Taylor Made Photo | Colorado Elopement Photographer

Whether you’re dreaming up something simple, emotional, and just-the-two-of-you or planning a mini celebration with a handful of people you love, Crested Butte is an incredible place to do it. From wildflower trails to alpine lakes and dirt roads that feel like pure freedom, this place is made for love stories that don’t follow a script. And if you want a photographer who’s down to scale stairs, splash through rivers, and cheer you on through happy tears, I’m your girl! Head to my contact page so we can chat about the ideas you have! If you want to learn more about me and what I do, click here. Can’t wait to hear from you!