Loveland Pass Colorado, A Perfect Spot to Say “I Do”!
If you’ve been dreaming of eloping high in the Colorado mountains, Loveland Pass might just be the ultimate spot! At nearly 12,000 ft above sea level, perched right on the Continental Divide, Loveland Pass delivers sweeping alpine vistas, dramatic ridgelines, and a ceremony backdrop that’s nothing short of epic!
In this short lil guide, we’ll walk you through everything a couple needs to know: why Loveland Pass works for an elopement wedding, the best seasons to consider, logistical essentials, permit and access tips, and how to plan your day so your photos and film turn out exactly how you want them while doing exactly what you want to do on your big day!
Why Loveland Pass Is a Stand Out Choice!
Breathtaking setting at high elevation: The pass sits at 11,990 ft (that is HIGH, y’all!) offering panoramic views of Colorado’s incredible surrounding mountains!
Easy access for alpine scenery: While many mountain elopement locations require long hikes, Loveland Pass is reached via US 6 and has vehicle pull offs and walkable views along the road, making it a fantastic choice for couples who want big views with minimal trekking.
Versatility across seasons: Whether you want wildflower-filled meadows in summer, golden aspens in early fall, or snow-kissed peaks in the late spring, Loveland Pass offers dynamic backdrops most of the year.
Distinctive experience: Choosing an elopement at a spot like Loveland Pass means your day won’t feel like every other mountain wedding. It’ll feel uniquely yours- bold, adventurous, elevated (literally!!) and simply enhanced because of the location.
Best Seasons & Timing
To pick the right date and vibe for your Loveland Pass elopement, timing can matter, so consider:
Notice Loretta’s cute jacket as a layer! :-)
Summer (June – September): Roads are typically clear, wildflowers bloom, and the skies are crisp with that good mountain air! This is a solid window for ease of access and memorable scenery.
Early Fall (late September - October): Colors in the trees pop during this time and upper-mountain light becomes soft and golden making your elopement feel ethereal. Plus, some early snow dusting might show up- how extremely magical!
Late Fall/Winter: Eloping in snow adds major drama (we live for a good high drama moment, honestly) but it also adds complexity. Loveland Pass roads can be icy, weather can change fast, and you’ll need the right gear. It can be done beautifully, but may involve more planning!
Important: Check road conditions. Because the pass sits at such high elevation and sees wildly changing weather, closures and landslides can affect access. For example, just this pass June a 100-ft wide landslide forced a temporary closure. That’s mountain roads for ya!
Time of day matters for light and privacy. Sunrise and early morning are ideal with desirable aspects showing up such as fewer people, soft light, and an intimate setting for vows!
Thoughts on Access, Logistics & Permits
Loveland Pass sits along U.S. Highway 6 between Keystone and Arapahoe Basin, just above the Eisenhower Tunnel, making it one of the most accessible high-alpine elopement locations in Colorado! You can drive right to the summit and explore scenic pull-offs or short trails that lead to breathtaking mountain views. The pass has several trailheads and overlook spots to soak it all in at. Some are just a quick lil walk from the road while others can be longer alpine hikes if you’re craving an alpine adventure!
Dogs are welcome but should stay leashed (please bring your dog!!). Also, weather at nearly 12,000 feet can change FAST, so warm layers and sturdy shoes are a must! While most small ceremonies don’t require a formal permit, it’s always best to confirm with local land managers or CDOT, especially if you’re planning a larger group or using professional gear. The nearby towns of Georgetown (such a vibe!), Silver Plume, and Keystone offer cozy stays, great food, and easy access to the pass, giving you the perfect balance of wild scenery and mountain-town charm!
What to Plan for Your Day
We’ve had the opportunity of capturing a ton of elopements and the smoothest sailing ones usually consider the following beforehand:
Footwear & clothing: Even if you’re wearing a dress or suit, bring good shoes for the trails and a warm layer for portraits. The wind at the summit can be intense!
Timing for light & crowds: Early mornings or weekday slots will give more privacy and gentle light!
Transport & guests: Bringing a few loved ones along for the ride? Ensure your guests are comfy for the drive and altitude and know where to meet!
Backup plan: Nature is wild, that’s why we love it! The best plan includes a ‘Plan B’ spot nearby or slightly lower elevation in case of road or weather issues.
Photo/video flow: Your photographer/filmmaker can plan arrival, vows, portraits, and a quick drive to a second location (like a view pull-out or trail) to maximize scenery without feeling rushed or too posed. We love a good customized elopement day itinerary :-)
Celebrate wisely: After your ceremony, think about what activity(s) call to you and your fiance to include on your wedding day! Maybe popping bubbly? Making trail hot cocoa? If you’re planning other things be cautious of the elevation and how it could impact your celebration.
Why Couples Choosing Loveland Pass Love It
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Many alpine spots with these incredible views require long hikes; here you get dramatic elevation with relative ease!
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High peaks surrounding you, a true Continental Divide setting, match the momentous occasion with equally momentous views :-) Whether summer or winter, the light and setting deliver photos and films that look like a postcard!
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Saying your vows and having a first kiss as a married couple at 12,000 ft?! That alone is an incredible wedding day story!
Last-Minute Considerations & Tips We Recommend!
Double-checking road conditions the morning of your ceremony! This is a surprise we don’t want!
Bring blankets and layers with you, even in summer! They go a long way at 12,000 ft.
Tell any guests ahead of time: “mountain attire (layers, people!), altitude awareness, wear good shoes.”
Work with a photographer/filmmaker who knows the pass, so they can guide you to the best pull-offs and dreamy spots for your ceremony.
Plan for even just a short “just us” moment after your ceremony. We’ve seen things such as a walk, champagne toast, or quiet time with the sky & views. A seemingly smaller moment like that may just become the memories you carry forever!
In love with Loveland Pass? We don’t blame ya. Check out our YouTube video for a deeper dive into elopements we’ve had the pleasure of capturing up on the pass!
So… See You at Loveland Pass?!
It’s clear that Loveland Pass offers a unique blend of dramatic beauty, accessibility, and different length adventures, which makes it an ideal backdrop for couples who want their elopement to feel intentional, elevated (literally and figuratively!), and authentically them.
Your wedding day doesn’t have to be traditional or look like anybody else’s and at 12,000 ft it won’t feel traditional or run of the mill either. It’ll feel like pure magic!
Ready to say your vows above the treeline? Let’s plan an elopement wedding day that feels like you together! Fill out our contact form below to get started!
