Telluride is one of the most breathtaking places to elope in Colorado, and Charlotte and Taylor’s elopement was such a beautiful and laid-back experience, totally capturing the magic of Telluride. Their day was a seamless mix of adventure and intimacy, from their courthouse ceremony in downtown Telluride to a private vow exchange on Last Dollar Road, ending with golden-hour portraits at San Sophia Overlook. As their photographer, I documented their day on both digital and film, shooting with 35mm and 120 format film, which I later developed and scanned myself to create a timeless and artistic collection of their memories.
Telluride Courthouse Elopement
Charlotte and Taylor chose to make their marriage official at the historic San Miguel County Courthouse in the heart of Telluride. This charming brick building is a beautiful setting for couples who want a simple yet meaningful ceremony. We captured moments on the courthouse steps, framed by the architecture and vibrant downtown energy, before wandering through Telluride’s charming streets for additional portraits.
How to Get Married at the Telluride Courthouse
If you’re considering a Telluride courthouse elopement, here’s what you need to know:
- Marriage License: You can obtain a license from the San Miguel County Clerk’s Office at 305 W Colorado Ave. No waiting period is required, and the fee is $30.
- Ceremony Options: You can either self-solemnize (no officiant required in Colorado) or have a judge perform the ceremony. Contact the courthouse in advance to check availability.
- Witnesses: Not required in Colorado, making it easy for just the two of you to exchange vows privately.
After their ceremony, we strolled through downtown, capturing their newlywed joy with Telluride’s iconic mountains in the background. The mix of historic buildings, rustic alleyways, and natural scenery made for an incredible variety of backdrops.
Private Vows on Last Dollar Road
Following their courthouse ceremony, Charlotte and Taylor wanted a more private moment to exchange vows, so we headed up Last Dollar Road—a scenic dirt road that winds through rolling meadows, aspen groves, and stunning mountain vistas.
What is Last Dollar Road?
Last Dollar Road is a backcountry route connecting Telluride to Ridgway. Known for its breathtaking scenery, it’s a favorite among adventurous couples looking for a secluded and picturesque spot for photos. While some sections are accessible with a high-clearance vehicle, portions of the road can become impassable in wet weather, so always check conditions before heading out.
We found a beautiful meadow with towering peaks in the background, where Charlotte and Taylor shared heartfelt vows in complete solitude. The golden grasses, wildflowers, and soft mountain light created an unforgettable atmosphere for this intimate moment. Afterward, we stayed in the area for couple’s portraits, capturing the expansive landscapes and warm, glowing light filtering through the trees.
Sunset Photos at San Sophia Overlook
As the sun began to dip, we made our way to the free Telluride gondola—one of the most unique and scenic ways to experience Telluride from above.
What to Know About the Free Telluride Gondola
- Cost: Completely free to ride
- Route: Runs between Telluride and Mountain Village
- Schedule: Operates daily from 6:30 AM to midnight
- Best Stop for Views: San Sophia Station, where you’ll find breathtaking mountain panoramas
At the top, we arrived at San Sophia Overlook, one of the most incredible viewpoints in Telluride, just in time for golden hour. The weather had looked like rain earlier in the day, but we got incredibly lucky—the storm clouds held off, creating a dynamic sky with soft, diffused light. The dramatic cloud formations made for some of the most stunning sunset photos, with the San Juan Mountains stretching endlessly behind them.
Final Thoughts on This Telluride Elopement
Charlotte and Taylor’s Telluride elopement was an incredible mix of adventure, intimacy, and stunning scenery. Whether you’re dreaming of a courthouse elopement, a private vow exchange in the mountains, or a sunset celebration at San Sophia Overlook, Telluride offers endless possibilities for a breathtaking wedding day.
If you’re considering a Telluride elopement, I’d love to help you craft and document your perfect day. Reach out to start planning your adventure!
To start planning your Telluride elopement, get in touch with me now!
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Bouquet: Flowers By Ella Telluride
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