Table of Contents
Colorado Hiking Elopement Photographer | Hiking Elopement at Blue Lakes in Telluride
Backpacking to a Sunrise Ceremony near Telluride
As a Colorado hiking elopement photographer, I live for the kind of unforgettable experiences that blend wild beauty, meaningful moments, and epic adventure—and this Telluride elopement checked every box.
The Night Before: Backpacking In and Chasing Sunset
I had the amazing opportunity to join the talented Savannah Chandler Photography as her second shooter and assistant for this adventure elopement. We backpacked in our gear the night before just in time for sunset dinner on the lower blue lake short. The next morning we met the couple and hiked from camp to the ceremony location between the top two lakes. It was a killer workout and the most epic morning ever.
Sunrise in the High Alpine
Hiking in the darkness with headlamps, the trail gradually revealed itself as we climbed into the basin. We reached the upper lake with time to spare. Giving everyone a chance to catch their breath and enjoy the peaceful morning air while they all changed into their wedding attire. It was perfect.
As the couple got ready, the light began to change—Dallas Peak caught the first soft rays of alpenglow, and the sun crested behind the majestic 14er, Mt. Sneffels. It was the kind of moment that makes you pause and just soak it all in.
Why This Location Stands Out
This area is incredibly special to me as a Colorado hiking elopement photographer. It’s not only one of the most visually striking regions in the San Juan Mountains, but it’s also the first place I’ve ever backpacked into for an elopement. It was actually my first ever backpacking trip. Idk why I’m like this. lol
Beside the sentimental aspect it is one of the most beautiful (if not #1) places is Colorado in my opinion. I try to make this hike personally and for elopements or proposals as many times as a year as I can. From the start of the trail as it winds through lush green meadows. Then opens up to see the peaks with waterfalls in the distance. Before dipping back into a forest and making your way to the lower lake. The walk out of the forest into the basin is something that changes your brain chemistry.
For those aiming to summit Mt. Sneffels, you can continue beyond the third lake to reach the ridge—or take the 4×4 route from the other side that brings you within two miles of the summit.
Planning Your Own Hiking Elopement to Lower, Middle, and Upper Blue Lakes in Ridgway, CO
If you and your partner dream of exchanging vows in a remote alpine basin, hiking under the stars, and experiencing sunrise over the peaks—I’m here to help you plan and capture it all. Whether it’s backpacking into a hidden lake or mapping out a custom trail route, I offer more than just photography—I’m your planning partner in adventure.
As a dedicated Colorado hiking elopement photographer, I specialize in helping laid-back, nature-loving couples create unforgettable, experience-focused days in the mountains.
Ready to plan your own mountain elopement? Let’s chat →
