The Insider’s Guide to Eloping in Buena Vista, Colorado

Elopements
Written By Shiloh Miller
Where to elope in Buena Vista, Colorado

Nestled between the Collegiate Peaks and the Arkansas River in south-central Colorado, Buena Vista is most known for its laid-back vibes, endless mountain views, and endless outdoor adventures. Located just over 2 hours southwest of Denver, Buena Vista is the perfect destination for an enchanting, adventurous elopement in the mountains. As a Colorado wedding photography and videography duo, we’ve witnessed firsthand how magical this area is for couples who want their day to feel intentional and connected to nature. That’s why we created The Insider's Guide to Eloping in Buena Vista, Colorado—to give you all the tips, inspiration, and local insight you need to plan your dream elopement in this stunning mountain town.

Eloping in Buena Vista, Colorado | Colorado Elopement Planning

Reasons to Choose Buena Vista for Your Elopement

Choosing an elopement destination is no easy feat, especially if you and your partner are flexible. When Chuck and I receive inquiries from couples who are eloping in Colorado (or beyond), but are undecided on an exact location, I like to take the time to understand what is more important to the couple. Some couples want to ski on their wedding day, while others want to hike in the morning and end their celebration with a night out on the town. There are endless factors that go into deciding on the “perfect” elopement location, but if you’re planning a Colorado elopement, you really can’t go wrong with wherever your elopement takes you!

If you do happen to be a couple who is searching for a unique elopement location that is more of a “hidden gem” than a popular destination, Buena Vista is exactly that. But if you need just a bit more convincing, I’ve outlined just a few reasons to choose Buena Vista for your elopement. 

How to elope in Buena Vista, Colorado

Scenic Beauty:

First and foremost, if you’re searching for an elopement destination that boasts breathtaking views as far as the eye can see, Buena Vista checks every box. Whether you envision saying ‘I do’ among snowcapped mountains, towering aspens, fields of wildflowers, or even a hidden lake, Buena Vista has it all. 

With over 95 million visitors flocking to Colorado, it’s no surprise that each season has its own perks — including Buena Vista. This quaint town is located nearly 8,000 feet above sea level, so each season is influenced greatly by altitude and mountain weather patterns. We have an entire blog on Choosing the Best Time of Year to Get Married in Colorado, but here’s what you can expect from each season:

  • Spring in Buena Vista, Colorado is a typical “transitional” kind of season. Lows are often below freezing at least in the earlier part of the season, whereas average daily highs range from the 40s-60s. There’s an increase in precipitation, with the higher elevations still having lingering snow. 

  • Summer in Buena Vista is the warmest, driest, and most stable season. Lows are in the low to mid-50s, whereas highs are around 80 degrees. While Summer is the driest season in Buena Vista, afternoon thunderstorms are no surprise and typically come out of no where. Due to high altitude, the sun is much stronger so be sure to wear sun protection.

  • Any Fall lovers out there!? Fall in Buena Vista brings cooling temperatures and a decrease in precipitation. High temperatures range from the 60s-70s in September, but drop to the low 40s by October, with nights being below freezing. Higher elevations begin to close due to early snow fall and autumnal colors peak in mid to late September. 

  • Winter in Buena Vista honestly isn’t horrible, but can be a little bit dreary. December is typically the coldest month, with average highs around 40℉, with lows dipping to 14℉ or lower. Higher elevation trails and passes are typically closed due to higher snow accumulations. Despite the cold weather, Buena Vista still gets doused in sunshine which can definitely help to lift the spirits. 

Colorado elopement photographer

Adventurous Opportunities: 

Colorado is known for its year-round appeal and access to endless adventures. And let me tell you: Buena Vista is up there with the best of ‘em. One of the best parts of visiting the area, however, is the vast range of activity levels that exist; there is something for everyone. If you envision taking it easy and relaxing during your elopement, visiting one of the many hot springs in the area might be more your speed. Or maybe you and your honey are big adrenaline junkies! Head out whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River, hike a nearby 14er, go snowmobiling, or hit the dirt roads on a four wheeler. 

  1. Off-Roading and Jeeping

  2. Whitewater Rafting

  3. Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing

  4. Horseback Riding

  5. Fishing

  6. Hot Springs

  7. Hiking

An intimate wedding dinner party at a Salida ranch near Buena Vista, Colorado.

Intimate Small-Town Vibes:

I don’t know about you, but there’s nothing worse than traveling and feeling like an unwelcome outsider. Buena Vista couldn’t be further from that. With less than 3,000 permanent residents, Buena Vista’s small-town vibes instantly make you feel at home. Between the mom and pop shops, people buzzing about enjoying the beautiful mountain views, and the cozy accommodations, tourists are welcomed with open arms. Finding a destination that you feel like you could constantly return to is such a special feeling, especially when the destination is for your best day ever!

Best Buena Vista Elopement Locations

ADVENTUROUS WEDDING CEREMONY LOCATIONS IN BUENA VISTA 

Collegiate Peaks Wilderness:

  • Perfect for adventurous couples who want alpine lakes and rugged mountain views. 

  • Looking for some specific suggestions of where to elope in the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness? Here are a couple personal favorites:

    • Weller Lake

    • Lost Lake

    • Lost Man Reservoir

  • Your wedding photographer should be able to help you find the perfect spot to exchange vows, but it’s always helpful to have some inspiration in hand. 


Cottonwood Pass:

With an elevation of over 12,000 feet, Cottonwood Pass is located along the Continental Divide. If you’re wanting to hike on your wedding day, take the 1.5 mile hike on the Continental Divide Trail from Cottonwood Pass to find views of the Collegiate Peaks and Geeta Pond.

Arkansas River:

The Arkansas River has many access sites, scenic riverbanks, picnic areas, and trails that are perfect for an intimate wedding ceremony. If you’ve always imagined a wedding with water views, the river is a beautiful option.

BEST WEDDING VENUES IN BUENA VISTA

The River Pavilion

  • What originally began as a rafting and backpacking outfitter in the 1980s, The River Pavilion is still the place to add a fun twist to your intimate wedding in Buena Vista! Nestled among the cottonwoods against the Collegiate Peaks, it is such a fun option for a Buena Vista wedding day! 

Deer Valley Hot Springs

  • This 1954 family dude ranch is the perfect place to come together with your loved ones with on-site accommodations! Located between Mt. Princeton and Mt. Antero, the property features panoramic views of the Chalk Cliffs. 

Everett Ranch Weddings

  • Family owned and operated since 1890, say “I do” on the banks of the Arkansas River before shifting your reception into the 3,600 sqft. barn surrounded by panoramic views. 

The Barn at Sunset Ranch

  • 5,000 sqft. rustic, elegant barn situated in a sprawling meadow with views of Mt. Princeton

Terrace on Main

  • Open-air rooftop venue in downtown Buena Vista, Colorado

Colorful intimate wedding in the mountains
Eloping in Salida, Colorado

How to Elope in Buena Vista, Colorado

  1. Hire a Local Elopement Photographer and Videographer —

    Ahem, hey! We’re Chuck & Shiloh, a Colorado elopement photo and video duo. ;) In all seriousness, hiring a local media team early on in your planning process is paramount to eliminate the added stressors that come with planning a destination elopement. Your elopement photographer will be knowledgeable in the best locations, traveling restrictions, hidden gems, must-have vendors, and where to snag the dreamiest images. Personally, Chuck and I also help our couples throughout the permitting process, guide them through obtaining their marriage license, recommend lodging, and curate a custom timeline. Trust us — hiring your photographer and/or videographer will make planning the rest of your Buena Vista elopement a breeze.

  2. Choose a Date/Season —

    If you haven’t decided on a date before inquiring with an elopement photographer, take some time to brain storm with their help. Consider what activities you and your partner like to participate in, whether you can tolerate (or want to tolerate) hot or cold, etc. Thankfully, Buena Vista is one of those sweet towns that always has something to offer, no matter the time of the year!


  3. Decide on a Location —

    With the assistance of your elopement photographer (or elopement planner), decide on a location early on in your elopement planning process. Some locations require a special use permit or even just a reservation. As I mentioned above, we personally assist our couples with this part of planning, but it’s important to be aware of if you are working with a different vendor who may not offer this service. As a general rule of thumb, national parks, national forests, and state parks all typically require a special use permit.

  4. Self-Solemnization vs. Officiant —

    One of the biggest perks of eloping in Colorado is that the state is a self-solemnizing state, which means: you don’t need an officiant to get married! For some couples, they love the flexibility and intimacy of sealing their marriage as just the two of them. Other couples prefer an officiant to perform a more traditional or structured ceremony. Which ever option you choose, the earlier you decide, the easier it is to design your elopement timeline.

  5. Choose Your Activities —

    Colorado is like one big playground for the young and the old alike. If you are getting married in Colorado, odds are: you’re up for an adventure. Whether you’re more of a low-key couple or you’re more of the adrenaline-junky kind of duo, there’s no shortage of activities to consider. Choose from the list earlier in the blog, or check out this list of things to do in Buena Vista.

    Looking to put a unique spin on your average hike or picnic? Here are a few sweet ideas to consider:
    - Morning hike and sunrise vows
    - Whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River
    - End your day with a hot springs soak
    - Fire-side dinner and s’mores under the stars

  6. Decide How to Include Loved Ones —

    Even if you and your honey aren’t planning on inviting guests to your nuptials, there are so many special ways to include your loved ones on your wedding day. From reading letters to wearing a family heirloom, video chatting to pre-wedding celebrations, you can easily include your loved ones on your best day ever. If you do anticipate having a guest list for your Buena Vista wedding, consider adventuring alongside them, enjoying an intimate dinner, or inviting them to your wedding ceremony. This is also a great topic to discuss with your wedding vendors!

  7. Book Your Accommodations —

    Once you’ve decided on a guest list, book your lodging before it gets too late. Because Buena Vista is bustling year-round, don’t wait too long before securing a place to stay. I’ve listed out some gems above, but there are tons of beautiful Airbnbs, VRBOs, and boutique lodging options in the Buena Vista area.

  8. Apply for Your Marriage License —

    For any Colorado elopement, you need to obtain a marriage license from the state of Colorado. If you’re eloping in Buena Vista, head to the Chaffee County Clerk’s office in Salida or Buena Vista. Both you and your partner will need to provide proper photo identification, your Social Security Number, and the city and state that your parents were born in. The cost of a marriage license is $30. 

  9. Practice ‘Leave No Trace’ Principals —

    Whether you’re getting married in the wilderness or in a rustic wedding venue, wherever your adventure takes you, remember to practice ‘Leave No Trace’ principles to protect our lands.
    - Plan Ahead and Prepare
    - Travel & Camp on Durable Surface
    - Dispose of Waste Properly
    - Leave What Your Find
    - Minimize Campfire Impacts
    - Respect Wildlife
    - Be Considerate of Others

Buena Vista, Colorado Wedding Photographer

Whether you’re set on getting married in Buena Vista, or you’re just searching for more information on saying “I do” in Colorado, you can binge our Colorado wedding and elopement resources below! With your insider’s guide to eloping in Buena Vista, you’re all set to plan for your best day ever. 

Still looking for a wedding photography and videography team, you are in the right place. Connect with Chuck and Shiloh Photo & Film here! Before you go too far, don’t forget to keep up with us over on the ‘Gram (@chuckandshiloh) — from our latest adventures as a Colorado media team to sneak peeks from swoon-worthy wedding days. Until next time, friend. Happy planning!!

Shiloh Miller
Next

Laidback Telluride, Colorado Elopement