A Colorful Hiking Elopement at Blue Lakes near Telluride

Thinking about planning a hiking elopement at Blue Lakes?

T & J reached out after deciding to elope in the stunning San Juan Mountains of Colorado and were drawn in by the vivid blue alpine lakes and dramatic, jagged peaks along the Blue Lakes Trail. They knew they wanted an elopement at blue lakes and that they wanted their elopement day to feel intentional, adventurous, personal and to focus more on their experience than a timeline. After months of planning and preparing for the trek, we met up at right after sunrise to start the hike early and make the most of the day and lighting. The quiet morning and soft alpine glow set the tone for what would be an unforgettable day.

Hiking to Blue Lake for an Intimate Colorado Elopement

With several miles and a few thousand feet of elevation gain ahead of us, they hiked in wearing athletic clothing and packs fully loaded with electrolytes, snacks, and canned oxygen. The trail was calm and peaceful that morning, with cool mountain air, birds just starting to stir, and peaks slowly lighting up as the sun rose higher. Despite the early start and steady climb, T & J were so excited to get to the lake (we capped our adventure at the first lake since they are flatlanders lol) and take in all of the beauty! Every turn in the trail brought a new view that made the effort completely worth it.

They got ready tucked into the trees before sharing an emotional first look overlooking the unreal blue water. Taking a few quiet moments to breathe it all in, they slowed down and soaked up the stillness before their ceremony. Surrounded by towering peaks, T & J exchanged vows, soaked in the scenery, and signed their marriage license with J’s sister as their witness. The effort it took to get there made the experience that much more meaningful and we practically flew back down the trail before they headed into Telluride to celebrate with family and friends who had traveled in for the weekend. It was the perfect balance of adventure and connection.

Photos from the Elopement at Blue Lakes

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