Boulder Elopements and Micro-weddings: A Comprehensive Guide | Updated for 2024

Updated December 8th, 2023

A bride and groom cuddle at the edge of a reflective lake at sunrise during their Boulder elopement ceremony.

Updated for the 2024-2025 Wedding Season

 

Elope in Boulder With Ease
With My Expert Intimate-Wedding Planning Advice

 
 

In the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, only 40 minutes from Denver lies a unique town close to my heart and home. Boulder, Colorado, offers city conveniences plus all the fantastic scenery you could ever want. And I know from my experience as a Colorado elopement photographer Boulder is ideal for small, intimate weddings.

Boulder may make you think of organics and wellness. But that’s because the whole town feels organic, natural, and healthy. Boulder can also be glamorous or mellow–you choose the vibe here. That’s what makes Boulder one of my favorite towns to photograph. You’ll find everything from interesting buildings and streets to beautiful trails and peaks in Boulder.

Table of Contents

 
 
A groom kisses his bride on the forehead at Indian Peaks Wilderness, one of the best Boulder elopement locations
 

Photos by Andrea Enger unless otherwise credited.

Why Choose a Boulder Elopement?

 

Boulder is accessible year-round, making it a stress-free choice for eloping in Colorado. If you can get to Denver, you can get to Boulder. Boulder is only 42 miles from Denver International Airport.

You Can Elope in Boulder in Any Season

  • Winter – This time of year is one of my favorites in Boulder because of the seasonal events and the tons of powder that fall in the area. If you enjoy winter sports like skiing or snowboarding, come here anytime between January and March, as Boulder is close to world-class ski mountains.

  • Spring – Boulder is simply beautiful in spring. You’ll likely see some rainy days, but how about some sweet photos of the two of you sharing a kiss under an umbrella? Even when it showers, Boulder is incredibly scenic and romantic.

  • Summer – Another of my favorite times of year in Boulder. Again, summer sees many fun festivals held. Restaurants and bars open their patios so that guests can enjoy the warm weather. And hiking is fantastic because the air in the mountains is cool and refreshing.

  • Fall – Fall colors make for glorious photos. Like springtime, this season can bring some rainy days and chilly nights. But for beautiful foliage, Boulder’s lakes and parks offer amazing colors you can enjoy on foot or by bike.

A bride and her mom pose for a photo in the snow
A bride and groom smile before a kiss among aspen trees
Newlyweds embrace standing on a rock in a river surrounded by pine trees, wearing flannel, with signs reading "just" and "married hanging from their backpacks.

Boulder Is Scenic From Every Angle

Boulder may not be as remote as some areas of Colorado, but this adorable town is no less stunning. I like grabbing my camera for unique shots of iconic places I find when walking around the city. Boulder is easy to get around because it’s pedestrian- and bike-friendly. The bus system is also excellent. 

You can also drive to the surrounding beauty, but here’s an insider tip: Watch where you park in Boulder and follow all parking laws to avoid tickets. You’ll find parking regulations strictly enforced in town.

Many shops in Boulder are locally owned and carry lots of interesting merchandise. Whenever I shop there, I always find something wonderful to photograph. Boulder restaurants also serve the most Insta-worthy (and delicious) plates.

 

The Best Places to Elope in Boulder

 
A bride wears a white pom pom beanie while embracing her groom wearing black ear warmers as they look out over the sun rising on mountains

My work as a seasoned Colorado elopement photographer means I know Boulder elopement locations to have your dream ceremony, whether it’s just the two of you or a small party. Often, clients who know they want to get married in this scenic town, but haven’t yet picked a specific location, will ask me: Where should we have our elopement ceremony in Boulder?

Below are my top 8 Boulder, Colorado, elopement locations, but we can also talk about your personal preferences—I always have a few other ideas in my back pocket—and sometimes the sweetest spots are off the beaten path. So even if you have another Colorado elopement plan, you can still use this as a fun list of things to do in Boulder.

A young couple looks out toward the mountains at one of the best places to elope in Boulder: Flagstaff Mountain

Bear in mind that if you hire a Boulder elopement photographer for any Open Space and Mountain Park spots, they’ll need to secure a photography permit as well as submit a reservation request. I handle all this for you, but I mention it here because planning ahead is important. I’ll need to know on exactly which trail(s) you want photography (and when), and if any friends, family, or vendors will be joining. The good news is this system means only one elopement can happen at each location at a time, but this also means the most popular spots book up fast, so again, please reach out ASAP if you’re considering Boulder for your elopement!

Sunrise Amphitheater

Get breathtaking combination views of the city and mountains with all the privacy you want by reserving this gorgeous natural venue through Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks. The amphitheater can accommodate guests and a sizable wedding party. Plus, you won’t have hikers in the background of your photos.

Another great feature about one of my favorite Boulder elopement locations is that you’re close to a few hiking trails for epic post-ceremony photos with plenty of glorious mountain scenery to make it appear you’re thousands of miles from civilization. Both sunrises and sunsets are incredible at Sunrise Amphitheater.

Reservations are either one or three hours. The fee for one hour is $100 for residents of Boulder and $150 for non-residents, and the fee for three hours is $300 for residents and $400 for non-residents. Please note: The amphitheater is closed from October 31 through April 30.

Newlyweds wrap their arms around each other while gazing into each other's eyes at Sunrise Amphitheater, one of the best places to elope in Boulder Colorado

Artist Point Elopement

Located near Sunrise Amphitheater, on top of Flagstaff Mountain, is the pretty spot of Artist Point. This point is a great place for intimate elopements without guests because the surrounding trees make it nicely private. I like this spot because of both the privacy and fantastic views where the trees clear, and dogs are allowed here.

Newlyweds gaze longingly at each other at Artist Point, one of the best places to elope in Boulder Colorado

Chautauqua Park

Chautauqua Park is a busy space, but you can also see the iconic Flatirons right from the parking lot. The best time to elope here is on a weekday at sunrise when it freshly glows and before the crowds arrive. But even if you’re not alone (it’s a popular spot among Boulder, Colorado, elopement locations), you’ll get lots of well-wishes from everyone you meet. If you’d like to stay onsite, Chautauqua Park offers 58 adorable cottages ranging in size from studio to three bedrooms, with kitchens and screened porches. It’s also dog-friendly.

Lost Gulch Overlook

Reach Lost Gulch Overlook by taking a drive up Flagstaff Road. From here, you’ll feel like you can see the entire beautiful state of Colorado. It’s a popular spot and open year-round. For the best experience, summer and fall are ideal seasons for elopements here. Sunrise is your best bet for avoiding crowds and getting the most spectacular views and photos.

It’s also another excellent place for wearing traditional gowns and shoes. The walk to the overlook is short, although rocky and inaccessible for wheelchairs. It’s also dog-friendly.

A bride pops champagne among large rocks in the mountains in one of the best places to elope in Boulder

National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) Trail

As far as Boulder elopement locations, this one has a strange name with a fantastic trail. The NCAR trail offers incredible views and is a beautiful elopement spot, especially at sunrise or sunset. You don’t have to hike to get to a good ceremony spot, so you can wear whatever you’d like. Restrooms are available, it’s wheelchair accessible, and the area is dog friendly.

A groom dips his bride as a dramatic mountain face looms in the background at sunset

Red Rocks Park

Red Rocks Park is managed by the City of Denver but is easily accessible from Boulder. If you have fewer than five guests (including you and the photographer), you won’t need a permit for either the ceremony or the photography in the park area and trails.

However, if you want to have a larger wedding inside the park’s famous amphitheater or use any part of the amphitheater for your elopement, you’ll need to call (720) 865-2484 or visit their online contact page.

I do love the rock formations and how they add interest to photos. Out on the trails, the rocks will also give you a bit of privacy during your ceremony.

Brainard Lake

Brainard Lake is a popular destination with fantastic mountain views and a gorgeous place for your Boulder, Colorado, elopement, especially during July or August. It’s less than an hour away by car and is open 24 hours, so you have lots of flexibility on when to have your ceremony and photographs. However, since Brainard Lake sees a high volume of visitors, I recommend sunrise or a weekday with few guests.

If you plan to park at the Brainard Lake Recreation Area you’ll need to purchase a timed-entry ticket. The timed-entry window is 8 a.m. – 11 a.m. but you can get there early, too, starting at 5 a.m. 

Another good thing about eloping at Brainard Lake is that you don’t have to hike. Restrooms are available for hair and makeup touch-ups too. Bridal updos, cute shoes, and dream wedding dresses are perfectly fine here. You are also welcome to include your (leashed) dog if you elope at Brainard Lake. This park is dog friendly.

Newlyweds enjoy a canoe ride on Brainard Lake, one of Boulder, Colorado's best places to elope

Indian Peaks Wilderness

The gorgeous Indian Peaks Wilderness area covering 76,000 acres was officially designated in 1978. It’s now a hugely popular destination for hikers. I love this natural space for a Boulder elopement because of its alpine vibe, tundras, and massive 13,000-feet peaks. Named after western Native American peoples, the peaks are called Apache Peak, Pawnee Peak, and Ogallala Peak. It’s managed by the U.S. Forest Service and the National Park Service because it shares a border with Rocky Mountain National Park.

The wilderness is a lovely area within the Arapaho and Roosevelt national forests. Best of all, it’s easy to get to from Boulder. You’ll need a permit for groups of 8 to 12, and you should plan to get one as soon as you start making plans as they’ll fill fast. But because of its popularity, the trails are well-marked and maintained. There is even a spectacular alpine lake called Devil’s Thumb Lake, sitting at 11,180 feet. It takes a 6-mile hike from the town of Nederland in Boulder County to reach it.

I know this wild part of Boulder County well, so I can take you to some quiet, scenic spots that will make your elopement as memorable as possible.

A couple beams standing in front of a reflective lake at sunrise in the Indian Peaks Wilderness, one of Boulder's best places to get married

Here are a few other favorite places I like to take couples to get great photos in Boulder County. Or add them to your to-do list just for fun:

  • University of Colorado Boulder–This gorgeous campus’ sandstone buildings have fantastic red tile roofs. You can also see the Flatirons from here. I always get great shots of famous Folsom Field from campus too.

  • Boulder Theater–Pre- or post-wedding photos in front of the Boulder Theater’s art deco marquee would be a superb choice for couples who love live music.

  • Boulder Farmers Market–I love capturing an elopement photography session at farmers’ markets. There’s just something “casual weekend” about shopping for colorful veggies and flowers or choosing a great loaf of bread for the week ahead.

  • Flagstaff Mountain–You’ll find Flagstaff Mountain west of Boulder. From the top, you’ll get the best views of the town. It’s also one of my favorite places to hike and picnic–romantic picnics here are the best. On the way to the top, look for the pull-outs so you can stop and get fantastic panoramas of the entire valley.

  • The Chairs–These are sandstone chunks left in an old rock quarry. But hikers making the Mesa Trail sit on them like they are furniture and enjoy the views while surrounded by nature.

Newlyweds enjoy a picnic with a grand view of the mountains

These are just a few places where you can experience Boulder’s beauty. In addition, I have many secret spots in and around Boulder where I like to take my couples to get the ultimate “wow” factor.

Still considering other Colorado towns for your elopement or micro-wedding? Be sure to check out my Colorado Elopement Guidebook for an overview of this gorgeous state and the various locations in which to get hitched!

A groom clasps his mouth in disbelieve at his bride's beauty during the first look of their Boulder elopement

Boulder’s Intimate Wedding Venues

I may know many remote places for eloping in Colorado. But I also know all the fantastic Boulder Colorado wedding venues with an intimate vibe if a more traditional event space is more your style.

The Riverside

1724 Broadway
Boulder CO  80302
(720) 443-2322

You won’t find another historic venue like The Riverside outside of Boulder. The Riverside staff has an uncanny sense of what will make each celebration suit your style. They offer customizable packages to have a Boulder elopement experience curated just for you. (And their chef-forward catering uses fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create out-of-this-world delicious plates for your reception.)

Venue amenities at a glance:

  • Creek-side patio

  • 4+ unique event spaces

  • Full catering and bar service with liquor license

  • Event management, table settings, linens, china, etc.

  • A/V services for concert lighting, live music, and dancing

  • Local vendors for DJs, videos, decorators, etc.

Greenbriar Inn

8735 N. Foothills Highway
Boulder CO  80302
(303) 440-7979

A wedding arch with macrame and flowers stands before a pond and waterfall at one of Boulder's wedding venues, the Greenbriar Inn

The pond and waterfall. Image courtesy of the Greenbriar Inn

The Greenbriar Inn has been a location for Boulder weddings and receptions for more than 50 years. The romantic inn and restaurant sit on 20 gorgeous acres amidst hills and mountains. Many ingredients used in their extraordinary dishes are grown in their gardens. Their chefs are happy to customize your reception menu and their pastry chefs can even make your wedding cake or create any other dessert you desire.

Tables set for four people in an indoor/outdoor sunroom at the Boulder wedding venue, the Greenbriar Inn

The Sunroom. Image courtesy of the Greenbriar Inn

Venue amenities at a glance:

  • Countryside gardens

  • 7 unique event spaces

  • On-site coordinator

  • Linens, tables, chairs, silverware, plates, and all other serviceware 

  • Experienced event staff 

  • Ample free parking

  • Custom-sized dance floor options

Chautauqua Dining Hall

900 Baseline Road
Boulder CO  80302
(303) 442-3282

The front of a cottage with grey siding and white trim that can be rented as a Boulder wedding venue

The Galey Cottage. Image courtesy of Colorado Chautauqua.

The historic Chautauqua Dining Hall was established in 1898 and their popular restaurant is a destination for visitors, locals, and hikers, while the event spaces are perfect for Boulder weddings and receptions. The views from the spacious wraparound porch are excellent, as is the fresh cuisine. Catering is available in and out of the dining hall, or you can choose another venue (like cottages or lodges) on the gorgeous grounds. Menus are customizable and take full advantage of wholesome, locally available ingredients. Out Boulder County, a nonprofit supporting LGBTQ+ communities, is a valued partner of theirs.

A large dining table is set with formal place settings as it was rented as a Boulder wedding venue

Interior of the Galey Cottage. Image courtesy of Colorado Chautauqua.

Venue amenities at a glance:

  • Historic charm and dramatic views

  • 8+ unique event spaces

  • In-house catering

  • Guest services team

  • A/V and lighting services

  • Onsite lodging options from cottages to 8-bedroom lodges

Rembrandt

1301 Spruce Street
Boulder CO  80302
(303) 720-6141

Imagine your small wedding and reception in the middle of beautiful Boulder with all the conveniences of hotels, shopping, and salons. If such a scenario makes your heart beat faster, contact the fantastic events team at Rembrandt. This lovely, spacious venue is perfect for groups of up to 125, with room for the ceremony, cocktails, dancing, and dinner. Best of all, even though you’re in the city, you still get those dreamy mountain views.

Venue amenities at a glance:

  • Pets are allowed—bring your dogs, cats and even your small horse (!)

  • Day-of wedding coordination

  • Talented DJs, musicians, and emcees

  • Outside caterers and bartenders allowed

  • Complimentary overnight storage of gifts, decorations or keepsakes

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Restaurants for Your Boulder Wedding Reception or Rehearsal Dinner

These eateries serve delicious food in their stunning spaces while you make memories during your Boulder wedding reception or rehearsal dinner.

A couple smiles while drinking Moscow Mules at their Boulder Colorado wedding rehearsal dinner

Flagstaff House Restaurant

1138 Flagstaff Road
Boulder CO  80302
(303) 442-4640

Suppose your wedding vision included a spectacular setting at 6,000 feet, views, service, and food. In that case, you’ll find all of that and more at Flagstaff House Restaurant. The Flagstaff House also has very flexible event space, including terraces, so that you can plan a reception for any size group, from 10 to 160. Menu items are eclectic, surprising, but always delightful. I love this Boulder restaurant for weddings fit for a fairy tale.

The Kitchen

1039 Pearl Street
Boulder CO  80302
(303) 544-5973

The Kitchen is a fun and trendy eatery serving international flavors and interesting cocktails. The menu will tempt and satisfy adventurous palates and those who like to stick to familiar tastes. The servers know the menu and are happy to help you choose a dish you’ll never forget. While their Boulder location is a fantastic choice for a small, intimate celebratory dinner, their Denver spot can accommodate private parties in their chic spaces.

Corrida

1023 Walnut Street, #400
Boulder CO  80302
(303) 444-1333

Stylish with an eclectic Spanish menu of tantalizing tapas and elegant entrees. They have a wonderful wine list and cocktail selection too. Special events arrangements for your Boulder wedding can be made via the website.

Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse

1770 13th Street
Boulder CO  80302
(303) 442-4993

Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse facade, painted by Tajikistan artists

Image courtesy of BoulderTeahouse.com

Boulder has many unique restaurants, but this one is quite special. Tajikistan artists painstakingly handcrafted the tearoom as a gift to the city. Guests now experience unforgettable meals or teas in this fantastic venue. I highly recommend talking to their talented team about your rehearsal dinner needs.

 

Boulder Lodging

 

Here are some beautiful and historic places to stay and celebrate when you elope in Boulder.

Hotel Boulderado

2115 13th Street
Boulder CO  80302
(303) 442-4344

Facade of the historic Hotel Boulderado at dusk

Image courtesy of Boulderado.com

The whimsically named and historical Hotel Boulderado is an institution here. The Victorian-styled guest rooms are charming and comfortable, and the views are incredible. The hotel also offers several restaurants offering tasty and eclectic dishes.

Bradley Boulder Inn

2040 16th Street
Boulder CO  80302
(303) 545-5200

Bradley Boulder Inn offers romantic rooms and noted restaurants in downtown Boulder and is close to famous Pearl Street. Guest rooms at the inn offer features such as balconies, fireplaces, and whirlpool tubs. After your Boulder elopement, enjoy afternoon wine and cheese in front of the river rock fireplace, hearty breakfasts, baked goodies, organic teas and coffee, a fitness center, and convenient onsite parking.

Boulder Adventure Lodge

91 Fourmile Canyon Drive
Boulder CO  80302
(303) 444-0882

Interior of a rustic lodge bedroom with a red and black plaid blanket on the bed

Interior of the Sunset Cabin. Image courtesy of Boulder A-Lodge.

Just outside of downtown Boulder, on Boulder Creek, is the quintessential Colorado lodge, Boulder Adventure Lodge. They offer accommodations such as campsites, a hostel, and cabins. The specially designed “A-Lodge” is appointed to suit guests seeking authentic mountain experiences.

Boulder, Colorado Vacation Rentals

Quick note: As an affiliate member of VRBO, this post contains links to recommended services that I use myself and love. If you make a booking after clicking one of these links, I earn a small commission (at no extra charge to you). I promise any latte money earned ☕️ will be used to create even more useful content like this!

Whenever I stay over in Boulder, I love the feeling of having my very own mountain hideaway. For your Boulder elopement, here’s a list of amazing vacation rentals that offer ultra privacy and relaxation with options to fit every preference.

Newlyweds eat their wedding cake on the balcony of their Boulder vacation rental after their elopement

I personally researched each of these properties before adding them to this list, taking into consideration the layout of the space and the overall aesthetic for the potential photography we might be doing there! Families can spread out (and the betrothed can occupy opposite wings, if needed), and these types of lodging are also perfect for bringing in a private chef for your wedding day dinner! I’ve included a good mix of budget, luxury, and dog-friendly listings–click the button above and start getting inspired!

When a Vrbo listing has caught your eye, scroll down to the “House Rules” to read the hosts’ event policy. Some may charge an extra fee, and pay attention to the limit on guests. While I’ve vetted these properties for their amenities, ambiance, and elopement potential (have you SEEN some of these back yards?!), you’ll definitely want to disclose your plans with your host to ensure you’re not met with any last-minute surprises.

 
 

Boulder Wedding Vendors

These Boulder wedding vendors come highly recommended by my past couples and have been personally vetted to ensure they share my values of inclusion.

Jump to:
Bakeries
Caterers + Private Chefs
Hair + Makeup Artists
Florists
Wedding Pet Attendant

A cream-colored wedding cake is decorated with fuchsia flowers and sits in field of tall grass with mountains in the background.

Wedding cake by La Pâtisserie Française in Arvada, Colorado, between Denver and Boulder.

Boulder Wedding Bakeries

La Pâtisserie Française

7885 Wadsworth Blvd.
Arvada CO 80003
(303) 424-5056

I've photographed several elopements now that served up cakes from La Pat. They've each been so uniquely gorgeous (see the image above for proof!) and—according to the couple—super delicious!

Boulder Catering + Private Chefs

Planning a Boulder micro-wedding? Or just want a private bespoke culinary experience? See these true professionals for an unforgettable time no matter how many guests are on your list.

Jubilations Catering 

215 Virginia Dr.
Estes Park CO  80517
(303) 440-1315

Jubilations Catering opened in Boulder, Colorado in the early 1990s and has developed a flawless reputation for serving fresh, exciting dishes for Boulder weddings. Their service and cuisine will make your medium to larger-sized celebration incredible.

A Spice of Life Catering

5541 Central Avenue, Suite 272
Boulder CO 80301
(303) 443-4049

A barn venue is decorated with yellow table settings and lanterns hanging from the ceiling

Image courtesy of Spice of Life Catering

This full-service event team takes care of all the details so all you have to do is be gorgeous and happy. Bring them your vision and they’ll move mountains to make it happen. They are a cheerful team with a happy, positive vibe.

Heartbeet Chef Dan Wilson

720-272-8445
dan@heartbeetchef.com 

Imagine a private chef who comes to your rental and prepares a private delicious meal for you and your guests or just the two of you. Chef Dan does everything for his clients from planning delightful menus to the clean-up at the end. What a romantically indulgent cap for your Boulder, Colorado, elopement.

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Wedding Hair + Makeup Artists in Boulder, Co.

Here is who I trust to make you look absolutely gorgeous for your elopement.

WedLocks Bridal Hair & Makeup

Highly talented and ready to listen to your wishes, this team (based in Denver and willing to travel) will stop at nothing to make you look and feel stunning.

Ember Hairstream

For an on-site glam experience for your Boulder elopement, you can’t miss when some of the most talented beauty professionals in Denver will travel in an Airstream just to transform you into a gorgeous bride wherever you are. 

Beauty on Location Studio

Their award-winning staff will come to you to make you picture-perfect and feel like a star on an epic film set.

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Boulder, Colorado Wedding Florists

Check out these friendly vendors for bright, beautiful, fresh wedding bouquets in Boulder.

A closeup of a wedding bouquet of red and purple flowers from a Boulder Colorado florist, with a wedding ring in the middle.

a Florae

464 Main St.
Longmont CO  80501
(720) 680-0046

This charming shop is also a boutique with unique finds. I love this team for their natural style.

Fiori Flowers

1833 Pearl St.
Boulder CO  80302
(720) 565-2434

Their arrangements are both lovely and traditional. This fun, positive team will make you feel pampered from consultation to delivery.

Boulder Blooms

2935 Baseline Rd., Suite 103
Boulder CO  80303
(303) 494-5678

This is the shop if you want to carry that intimate elopement feeling in all the details. Their arrangements are elegant while still a bit carefree. This floral studio also believes in being socially-conscious and aims to make eco-friendly decisions in everything they do. From composting their flower trimmings to using recycled paper cardstock and an electric delivery vehicle, they are always looking for ways to lower their footprint.

A bride holds her wedding bouquet high in the air and she and her groom celebrate their Boulder elopement at the edge of a lake with snowy mountains behind them.

Our Blessed Woods

Online at Etsy.com

If you decide to eschew fresh florals, definitely consider the stunning faux (silk) flowers in these handmade arrangements. A recent bride used these and we were both obsessed with how they turned out and looked in photos! (The bouquet and boutonnieres are also keepsakes that’ll never wilt!)

Wedding Pet Attendant

This is an invaluable service for those of you who want to include your fur babies in your ceremony. With the many options for dog-friendly elopement locations in Colorado, this service makes that decision stress-free.

Pup Plus One

From the website of these highly rated dates for your dog(s): “Our wedding pet attendants will escort your dog down the aisle, sit with them during the ceremony, assist with family photos and walk them around cocktail hour so your guests can meet the true love of your life.” They even offer overnight sitting or the whole weekend. Genius!

 

Fun Things to Do in Boulder, Co.

 

Here are some of my favorite places to see and activities to do in Boulder whenever I visit.

Flatirons

These iconic sandstone formations called the Flatirons are a part of the town’s western foothills. You can get great views and photos of them from Boulder. But to get a closer experience, hike them on one of the many trails, including the Chautauqua Trailhead found off Baseline Road. You can also opt for rock climbing if you have the skills (fun photo opp!) or grab some fresh items from the farmers market and have a romantic picnic. 

Eldorado Canyon

Another one of my favorite places for great things to do in Boulder is head to Eldorado Canyon. I love hiking through the sandstone cliffs, and the canyon is ideal for a picnic or rock climbing. The area also has more than 500 technical rock climbing routes.

You can also mountain bike the trails of various difficulties, all connected with Boulder’s trail systems. Finally, I highly recommend picnics and fishing in beautiful South Boulder Creek. The canyon gets crowded on weekends, especially in the summer, so choose a gorgeous weekday (especially for a Boulder, Colorado, elopement) to enjoy it all.

Pearl Street Mall

I can’t list all my favorite restaurants, breweries, and shops found at the fabulous pedestrian Pearl Street Mall that covers four blocks. But, I often share my choices with my Boulder elopement couples when they tell me they want to elope in Boulder. The mall spans downtown Boulder from 11th Street to 15th Street and holds many gems, plus the Boulder County Courthouse. It’s a great place to spend a couple of hours browsing the unique bookstores, galleries, and boutiques.

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Boulder’s Rich History

As with many western territories, Boulder’s gold first attracted settlers in the 1850s. The original settlement in Boulder County was at Red Rocks, or The Peoples’ Crossing, on October 17, 1858. One of the gold-seeking settlers, A.A. Brookfield established the Boulder City Town Company on February 19, 1859. 

As president of Boulder City, he and a group of shareholders divided the acreage along Boulder Creek. They tried to sell them for $1,000 per lot. Such high land prices kept growth low. Yet, miners poured into the area, along with hardware and mining suppliers, transportation companies, gambling halls and saloons, and rooming houses.

By late 1871, Boulder officially incorporated and dropped the aspirational “city.” Citizens first built their homes downtown but soon moved after the district became commercial. Wealthy families made their homes in the Mapleton Hill and Whittier districts. 

Throughout the late 1800s, townspeople erected schoolhouses and banks. The one-building University of Colorado welcomed 44 students and a professor in 1877. In 1887, electricity was available for the swelling population. Three years later, the railroad depot opened.

Boulder was also the location of Chautauqua, which some Texans established in 1898 to allow them to retreat from sweltering summer weather. The Chautauqua they created boosted Boulder’s parks and open space preservation program, which is still a city priority.

Over the decades, tech and aerospace companies have moved in, bringing interesting and well-paying jobs to town. Today, Boulder remains a beautifully planned city advancing a healthy environment and high quality of life for residents and visitors to enjoy. It was even named Happiest City in the U.S. by National Geographic.

Photo courtesy of Bouldercolorado.gov

Boulder Elopement Packages + Pricing

Are you intrigued about a Boulder elopement or micro-wedding? You should be! I love helping engaged couples plan elopements in this magical space. Together we can put together a plan that honors your passion for the outdoors and each other. Your wedding day will be special—and definitely on your terms.

I’m now booking Boulder elopements and micro-weddings for 2024 + 2025! Bookings are extremely limited. View my rates and see what’s included by clicking the button below, and reach out to snag your spot ASAP! And of course, we can always start with a low key phone call if you have any questions at all.

Contact me either through my website, by emailing me directly at andrea@andreaengerphotography.com, or by calling or texting me at (720) 739-0784. I look forward to hearing from you!

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Remember to “Leave No Trace!”

Sustainability can’t just be a niche market for photographers. It must be the new normal! As a nature lover, I am dedicated to helping our earth flourish. This is why I practice “Leave No Trace” principles at each and every one of my sessions.

What exactly is Leave No Trace?

It is:
🌿 A set of ethics & best practices we should follow to enjoy and protect the outdoors at the same time
🌿 An access tool to help enjoy public lands responsibly and leave less impact

It isn’t:
🌿 Something to shame other people about or make them feel bad for not knowing
🌿 Something to use to gatekeep and keep others from enjoying the outdoors

Once you’ve booked me as your Boulder elopement photographer, you’ll receive my full Leave No Trace guide for couples! It’s an easy-breezy workbook designed to help you plan your dream elopement, while being mindful of the beautiful lands upon which you’ve chosen to exchange your vows.

Lock In Your Date!

Ready to check availability and reserve your Boulder elopement photographer? You can fill out the form below, email me directly at andrea@andreaengerphotography.com, or send a text or call (720) 739-0784. I’d love to hear from you!

A groom kisses his bride while leaning her backwards at the edge of an alpine lake during their Boulder elopement. Green grass and yellow wildflowers dot the foreground while snowy mountain peaks rise behind them.

If you’re still in the research phase, I hear ya! Here are some more resources that my couples have found helpful. I hope you do, too!

Colorado Elopement Guide

Elopement Planning Toolkit (free download)

More Resources: