Eloping in Aspen: Love in the Rocky Mountains
There’s an argument that can be made for elopements being the easiest, most stress-free way to be wed.
Everything from style to substance can be determined by just two people – you and your soon-to-be-spouse. (Mother in law’s opinions be dammed!) In Aspen, we not only endorse an elegant elopement, but we can also make it easy for you. Follow these easy steps and the next thing you know, you’re married – Aspen style.
1. How to get your marriage license:
- Aspen is located within Pitkin County. In order to be legally married, a license must be used within 35 days of being issued. Marriage license cost is $30.
- To obtain a marriage license in-person, apply at the Pitkin Co. Clerk and Recorder’s office, 530 E Main St. in Aspen, Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. You can also contact the Clerk and Recorder by phone at (970) 429-2707, or visit the website and fill out the information here.
- You will need to visit the Clerk and Recorder’s office in person to pick up a physical copy of your license before marriage.
- Print this handy checklist to ensure your ducks are in a row:
2. Who should officiate?
- Anyone can marry a couple in Colorado! You can even marry yourself, no online minister documents required.
3. Where can you get marred? The simple answer is just about anywhere.
- If you are inviting guests to your elopement, perhaps surprise them with a wedding at one of the many ideal locations in the Aspen area.
- If you’re keeping it small, there is no more beautiful setting than the natural cathedrals that are found all around Aspen. Hiking to a special spot in the backcountry is a way to keep your elopement private and special.
- There are also a handful of idyllic, small parks where you can exchange vows. To reserve a local park, you’ll need a permit, you can apply here. Our suggestions for unforgettable elopement locations include the peaceful John Denver Sanctuary and along the riverfront at Henry Stein Park. For a view of Aspen and her surrounding mountains try Mollie Gibson Park located next to Smuggler Mountain.
4. Once hitched how should you begin your lives together as a wedded couple?
- We love an afternoon of wellness at the spa. Both RAKxa Wellness Spa at St. Regis Aspen Resort and The Spa at The Little Nell are fine choices or choose a couples’ massage in the privacy of your home or hotel room with Full Circle’s mobile services.
- Take a gondola ride to the top of Aspen mountain where you can view the Elk Mountain Range or hike along Richmond Ridge. Spread out a blanket in any season, break out the champagne and bask in the Colorado sun.
- Hike a new trail to commemorate the day. Perhaps plan to return every year to hike the same trail or ask friends and family to join in on a trail maintenance day as a way to celebrate your love.
5. Time to celebrate! A meal with friends and family is one wonderful way to announce your new union.
- Some of our favorite restaurants in Aspen also have private dining areas perfect for a small reception including Duemani, Matsuhisa, Betula and Kenichi. For a full buyout try Bear Den Aspen, Steakhouse 316 and Aspen’s only Michelin starred restaurant, Bosq.
Seeking further wedding inspiration? Explore our Maroon Bells elopement at Crater Lake blog, our wedding blogs or visit our Instagram @aspenweddings. For assistance in discovering the ideal location for your elopement ceremony, reach out to us at sales@aspenchamber.org, and lets collaborate in planning your dream Aspen elopement experience.
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