Ouray Elopement Locations With Easy Access

Thinking of a Ouray elopement but need an accessible location? You’ve come to the right place. In this guide we will cover the best easy access locations in the San Juans. Whether you are looking for easy trails with little hiking or you are inviting a small group of friends and family and need a location that is easy for everyone, consider some of these recommended trails.

Why You Should Plan A Ouray Elopement

• Unique Landscapes: Ouray has unique landscapes and variety. There are the mountain top locations that have Switzerland vibes like Governors basin and then there’s the gorgeous alpine lake spots like Velocity Basin.
• Best Spot To Elope: Ouray is the best spot to elope in the fall and summer seasons. The summer has lush greenery and the waterfalls are at peak. Then in the fall it is quieter and calm and filled with gorgeous fall colors. Depending on what you prefer, you really can’t go wrong with either season.
• Colorado Wedding Permit: Depending on which area you are eloping in Colorado, special use permits are required for some spots. In the San Juans, you don’t need a permit for most of the locations especially if you’re only having a few guests.
• Elopement Ideas: Ouray has many hiking trails but that doesn’t have to be the only activity you do for your elopement. You can check out local food spots, art museums, chase waterfalls, go to a music festival, have a picnic, go off-roading, go horseback riding and more. You can choose a few activities you like and that feel like you and really make your elopement day a unique and epic experience.

Ouray Elopement Locations With Easy Access

Some of my favorite easy access spots in Ouray include the Million Dollar Highway, Upper Yankee Boy Basin and Box Canon. These locations are either quick hikes or a spot to just pull off of the road and easily find a good spot to have a ceremony.

• Million Dollar Highway: There multiple locations to pull-off on the highway and find scenic views. Peak fall season is the best time to elope at these locations. What I love about this location is there are tons of meadows and the mountain backdrop. It’s a spot to say vows, explore the meadows or even setup a picnic.
• Upper Yankee Boy Basin: When you search “ouray elopement” this spot is probably the first location that pops up. You get unique mountain landscapes, wildflowers and a waterfall.This spot is easy to drive up to with a 4×4. The upper level of Yankee Boy Basin has a flat spot that’s a perfect ceremony spots and agreat for guests as well. The best time to get married at Yankee Boy is in the Summer. The lower part of the trail is accessible in June but there will still be a lot of snow. I recommend eloping in mid-July through mid-August for peak wildflower season.
• Box Canyon Falls Park: Lower Box Canyon is easy to get to and there’s a waterfall. The best part about this trail is how close it is to town.

Planning Your Ouray Elopement

Ready to start planning a Ouray elopement? Let’s connect! As a Ouray elopement photographer, I am passionate about helping you plan a unique elopement day experience and helping you find the best spot for you.