Located in the Tenmile range of the Colorado Rocky Mountains sits a quaint Victorian era mining town called Breckenridge. The town is quite young, founded in November 1859 by a gold prospector named Thomas Breckenridge. The gold rush era ended in 1942 when the last dredge operations came to a stop. Just shy of 20 years later, a renewed enthusiasm for skiing brought a fresh boom to the small mountain town when, in 1961, Breckenridge Ski Area opened. Breckenridge today hosts a wide array of possibilities when it comes to planning your elopement or intimate wedding day. At 9,600 feet in altitude, you can look forward to ample sunshine (300 days of sunny bliss a year), colorful wildflowers in the summer, quaking gold aspen leaves in the fall, and plenty of powdery snow throughout the wintertime (boasting a yearly average of 366 inches of snowfall per GoBreck). No season is off limits when it comes to this high alpine ski town. If you’re not quite sure how you’ll celebrate yet, let me talk up this whole elopement and intimate wedding biz for a moment. Elopements and micro weddings really offer a unique option to couples who are interested in a private celebration vs a large party. There are pros and cons to each choice. While bigger weddings are full of loved ones, they often come with a higher price tag too. Elopements can combine incredible experiences for a limited number of guests at a lower cost or allow for a larger budget for once in a lifetime splurging. Sticking to a budget may be a priority for your decision or simply desiring a beautiful setting and fun experiences with your closest loved ones. As a local, I’ve explored the mountains of Breckenridge in my free time skiing, backpacking, hiking, climbing, mountain biking, off roading, trail running, camping, and more. Let me tell you, there is an unending list of options when it comes to your ceremony location! Many that are hidden gems; lesser known and more secluded for a true Colorado adventure. I’ve also made many connections with various officiants, venues, florists, planners, videographers, and more. Below, I’ll detail and share many of these for easy planning! Any prices listed are based on 2022/2023 pricing.
Location, Location, Location
Let’s first discuss locations. You will need to decide how accessible your ceremony site needs to be. This typically depends on the guests you’ve chosen to join your adventure and your own desire to hike, camp, jeep, or stick close to town. If you are looking to do a more strenuous or adventurous activity for your day, you will also want to pick the right vendors; specifically a photographer and/or videographer who are willing to hike, climb, etc. with you (like us of course). Below, I’ve listed several venue options first and then detailed several hikes that would be ideal for the adventure ready couple. These are listed in order beginning with the shortest to the longest options!
Rentable Venues!
Sapphire Point: I have included this location as it is one of the most popular and requested by betrothed couples; well known between both locals and tourists alike. But keep in mind, it is POPULAR and public, as it is open year around as a hiking trail. Rent this spot near sunrise or sunset and you will find fewer people for a much more secluded event. Although this location is beautiful, there are many other gorgeous spots (local knowledge!) with similar stunning views. If you are looking for a quiet and secluded celebration, this may not be the right location for you. If it still sounds ideal, it is a great day use area with a small overlook down the path that many use for their ceremonies. The view overlooks Lake Dillon and the Tenmile range. If guests are inclined, they can hike the loop and enjoy the 360 degree views of the lake. Reserving this spot also includes the picnic tables halfway around the loop which works great for an outdoor reception. Expect to pay $110 for a 3 hour time slot. You can reserve HERE.
Carter Park Pavillion: Set just off the busy main street of Breckenridge, you will find a quiet park with beautiful views of the Breckenridge Ski Resort. Hike up one of the many trails or rent the timber frame pavilion site for your intimate gathering. The Carter Park Pavilion is a fantastic event site for groups who want to relax on the lawn and enjoy time outside with their guests while also having a shelter to prepare food and have a dance party indoors! The venue hosts many amenities including picnic tables, gas fireplace, indoor heated gathering area, large natural gas grill, public heated restrooms, and a large patio with views of the Tenmile range with peak 8 as the centerpiece. Use this space in the winter and you will find you have a free sledding hill next door for loads of fun with your guests! Inquire HERE.
Breckenridge Historic Sites: The Breckenridge Heritage Alliance hosts 5 historic ceremony sites that are both beautiful and reminiscent of the 1800’s mining era. The Lomax Mine Site is my personal favorite as I adore the rustic cabins. This site also sits close to the gondola which quietly glides over Cucumber Gulch Wildlife Preserve. If you walk the nearby trails you will take in views of peak 8 and in the opposite direction, an open view of the town below with Bald Mountain in the background. Expect to spend $150-$250 to reserve. You can make reservations HERE.
Summit Huts: Instead of renting an Airbnb, support a local nonprofit by renting out a true Colorado cabin in the woods! There are several huts laced throughout the greater Breckenridge area that you can rent out in the summer or winter time. Make sure to plan early as the huts have reintroduced multi group rentals post covid. This means, if you don’t rent out all of the rooms, someone else can rent and stay at the same time as you. Many of these huts are more secluded, loved and used primarily by locals or backcountry ski fiends. In turn, utilizing one of the huts will give you a much more local feel intertwined with a unique experience for your guests. Some huts are only open and accessible in the winter season which is perfect for the group ready to skin, snowmobile, or snowshoe up. Multiple other huts do offer year around lodging for summer celebrations. Check HERE for rates as they vary from hut to hut.
Breckenridge Distillery: The perfect spot for an intimate Breck wedding. The Breckenridge Distillery aims to bring unique flavors and good company together in a relaxed mountain setting. Spend time exploring the mountains for photos and end up at this rustic cabin lore venue for your ceremony and reception to follow. You will be treated to a private chef’s cuisine of contemporary steakhouse mixed with modern American upscale dining while indulging in finely crafted local libations. What’s not to love about the world’s highest distillery? You can reserve HERE.
Breckenridge Nordic Center: The “Oh, Be Joyful” Lodge at the Breckenridge Nordic Center is one of the most beautiful venues I have ever photographed at. It is owned by long time locals Gene and Theresa, who are passionate about giving their guests a fun and enjoyable experience. The inner walls of the lodge give you the coziest cabin feel and a full wall of large glass windows allow you to overlook Peak 8 while dining with your guests. Outside you’ll find a grass lawn that doubles as your outdoor ceremony site. This sits next to a deep forest with soaring peaks rising above the pines. Book a winter wedding here and enjoy cross country skiing with your guests before or after your celebration! The lodge hosts a full bar that can provide all of your beer, wine, and cocktails for your event. Included in your rental are long wood tables, chairs, various decor, and other supplies you may need for your day. Check them out HERE.
Lodge by the Blue: The Lodge by the Blue is nestled in a small open valley with views of the famous fourteener, Quandary Peak. Overlooking the Blue River and just 15 minutes outside of Breckenridge, you feel like you have found solitude in a cozy backcountry chalet. Your guests and you will enjoy the perfect setting for a vintage mountain wedding where the views are awe-inspiring and the digs are quaint and relaxing. Take a look for yourself HERE.
Vail Resorts Breckenridge: The actual ski resort also offers a variety of options that can host both small intimate weddings to much larger gatherings. Tenmile station and Sevens overlook the surrounding mountains and are my favorite when it comes to Breckenridge resort weddings. Check out their wide range of options HERE.
The Lodge at Breckenridge: Does stepping outside onto a cliffside deck for your wedding ceremony sound incredible to you? Beyond the cliffs edge are wide open views of Bald Mountain and Breckenridge Mountain Ski Resort. There are no lack of breathtaking views when it comes to The Lodge. This boutique hotel holds rustic Colorado charm while offering a mountain-top getaway for you and your guests. Within a short drive from downtown and numerous trails, you’ll be able to find rest and relaxation or explore the sights and go shopping. Book HERE.
Hikes and Trails that Lead to Epic Views and are Dog Friendly
(for more hidden gems and local know how, let’s talk!)
Blue River Arm Trailhead: Easily accessible trail from a large parking lot that leads to the shore of Lake Dillon Reservoir. This trail provides beautiful views of the lake and the mountains surrounding it. Little to no hiking necessary. I’ve provided the trailhead coordinates HERE.
Blue Lakes Trail and Hoosier Pass: These trails are very close to one another so I am intertwining them for those interested in exploring only one or both. Drive towards Alma on HWY 9 and you will start up Hoosier pass where you will be greeted by numerous fourteeners rising high in the sky. Blue lakes sits deep within in a valley where Mt. Quandary looms overhead. You really feel the height of the tall peaks surrounding you while taking in the breathtaking views. Here, you can hike up the road during the winter or drive up in the summer to the alpine landscape. This location really has everything; high alpine lakes, waterfalls, stunning mountain scapes, and if you are lucky enough you will see a mountain goat or two. This trail has become quite popular but if you are willing to hike about, you can find secluded spots to enjoy. Hoosier Pass has a decent sized parking lot with easy access to wildflower strewn hillsides. Getting above tree line is a quick jaunt for rewarding views. Both locations are great for skinning in the winter or hiking in the summer. Little to no hiking is necessary for accessibility though, depending on the season.
Gold Hill Trail: About 4.5 miles from downtown, this trail begins slightly north of Tiger Road off of HWY 9. This trail often offers a plethora of wildlife; foxes, birds, moose, and the occasional deer that hides with ease among the trees. After a short ascent from the parking lot, you crest the hill and are welcomed to stunning views of the peaks rising above town. Hike in a short ways or spend the day hiking in towards both the Peaks and Colorado trail. This location also offers beautiful aspen colors in the fall. View photos from the trail HERE.
Boreas Pass: A popular trail known for the seasonal fall aspen tunnel, you can hike or drive its entire length. The beginning of the road is smooth but quickly turns to rockier terrain requiring higher clearance as you ascend the pass towards Como. The views here cannot be rivaled. I repeat, the views cannot be rivaled! It is popular for a reason and although it is well traversed, it has plenty of nooks and offshoots to step off the main trail and take in the scenery in solitude. Boreas pass borders Summit and Park county and sits on the Continental Divide; this means that you can see for miles. Not only are the aspens and the views here astounding but you will also be caught up by the impressive fields of wildflowers and possibly run across a moose or several mountain goats enjoying the high alpine climate. Boreas Pass also holds many mining and railroad relics that will fascinate the history lover whether that is your partner or your guests attending your celebration. During the winter, the snow on this trail is usually packed down well due to daily hikers and skiers. This allows for easy access in almost any season. Make sure to bring warm winter boots, skis, or snowshoes to relish the snowy peaks firsthand.
Colorado Trail: The Colorado Trail comprises of 567 miles of backcountry terrain that stands as a lauded thru hike. Spanning from Denver to Durango, many summer go getters take up the challenge and walk it in its entirety. Close to home, the CT winds its way through the dense woods of the White River National Forest. It links Georgia Pass to Gold Hill before traversing the ridge line south, over to Peak 8. Here it makes a sharp turn towards Copper mountain veering off and away from the Wheeler Trail. There are so many spots to enjoy wildflowers and expansive views along this long distance trail, but the top of my local list are those headed south past the peaks trail while ascending the Tenmile range and those on Georgia Pass (quite a hike but easy to jeep up to in the summer months).
Peak 8 and Peak 9: Why not hike the iconic mountains that watch over the town itself? During the summer you can hike or drive up the mountain side and stop along the way to enjoy the bountiful fields of mixed native wildflowers. You may even be able to find snow late in summer within the 4th of July bowl! This trek can be as long or as short as you desire it to be. Make it even more special by getting to the base of the mountain by taking the gondola from town.
Crystal Lakes/Mohawk Lakes: Both of these trails start from the same area and lead to a variety of high alpine lakes. You will be greeted by the ruins of old mining cabins and if you choose to hike Mohawk Lakes you will also find multiple waterfalls flowing through the valley. Both are approximately 8.4 miles round trip. Take a look at Crystal lakes HERE and Mohawk lakes HERE.
On trail, make sure to practice Leave No Trace, ensuring the trail systems remain enjoyable to all future hikers and animals alike.
Personalize Your Ceremony
Alright, your ceremony site is locked in, now let’s get you married!
Self solemnize: Do you know what is especially neat about choosing to get married in Colorado? To say, “I do” you literally only need you and your partner, plus your marriage license. Tha’s it! Colorado allows couples to self solemnize, which means you can marry yourselves without an officiant! This is just about as easy as it can get!
Hire an incredible officiant: If you do want an officiant to walk you through your intentions and create a special ceremony for you and your partner, I highly suggest checking out Phil Gallagher. Phil is a local officiant who has met me on many trails throughout Summit County and beyond. Phil’s officiant services start at $550.
Bring the pups: Colorado also lets your furry friends sign your marriage license as your witness/es! Look no further for a good excuse to have them front and center on your day! Find a good quality ink pad and bring along a towel to wipe their paws clean afterward.
Include special rituals: Many couples choose to weave in meaningful rituals like sage burning, warming the rings, or handfasting to solidify their commitment to one another. Want a few ideas? I’ve linked a site that has a list of options for you HERE.
Personal handwritten vows: I encourage all of my couples to consider writing out personal vows to one another. There is nothing quite like hearing your partner relay heartfelt promises to you in their own words. On my elopement day, I remember being delighted by my fiancé’s emotion filled memories of our relationship, intentions for our future, and promises over our lives together. His vows held so much meaning for me and it was an incredibly special moment to share during our ceremony. While this is a very personal decision, handwritten vows can add unexpected magic to your ceremony and make it completely unique. Not into writing vows? Alternatively, consider writing each other letters to read privately during your first look.
Acknowledge your guests: I have seen couples do this in many ways. Some simply say thank you to the group as a whole for being there in celebration. Others, with a smaller guest list, take time to relay to each individual person how much they have impacted their lives and their relationship while moving towards marriage. Other couples ask guests to be involved and write their good wishes for the couples marriage; either placing them in a box/jar/etc. to read later or sharing them at some point during the ceremony for all to hear.
Make it an Experience
Having a smaller wedding or elopement allows you to bring your guests along for the journey. While there are no wrong answers here, I have listed a few ideas to create a one of a kind experience for you and your selected guests.
Winter
Sleigh ride with Golden Horseshoe: If you could dream up the epitome of a snow globe winter wonderland wedding, this is it! Take a sleigh ride adventure with all of your guests to an enchanted snow covered meadow for your ceremony. You will travel with blankets and hot cocoa provided to keep your celebrants toasty warm! Check out the possibilities HERE! Expect to pay $70 per person for bigger groups or $365 for a smaller group of up to 4 people on a custom made private sleigh (modeled after the Hudson Valley Sleigh from the Victorian era).
Snowmobile to Georgia Pass: Can you imagine snowmobiling up a wintery pass to mystical mountains laden with snow? Goodtimes Adventures makes this possible and can accommodate larger groups if necessary. Not only does this make for a once in a lifetime adventure for your guests, but it could make for an exceptionally unique ceremony site with Mt. Guyot as your witness in the background. Make sure to book early (accepting reservations as soon as Thanksgiving week) as they fill spots quickly! Weather can vary wildly on the pass, communicate with you guide and check out your options HERE.
Snowcat Trek to a Destination Hut: Snowcats are known to groom ski runs and Nordic trails all over Summit County. Their lights are often seen gracing the mountains at night and with the proper equipment attached, a snowcat will leave smooth or corduroy textured snow in its wake. Lesser known is that they can also take skiers to backcountry areas that are more difficult to access.The Breckenridge Nordic Center offers a unique snowcat ride that can be a fun addition to your day or a fancy ride to a secluded ceremony site! You can expect to pay $700 for a 90 minute tour for up to 8 people. Book a snowcat tour HERE.
Dogsled Through the Forest: Hold tightly as you move swiftly along hushed forested trails through the Swan River Valley; the only sounds are of husky paws finding their footing and the dogsled runners gliding across the snow with ease. Snowflakes fall gently on the pine needles as you move further down the trail. You catch sight of gleaming mountains in the distance each time the trees thin but the trail turns once again and they disappear out of view. Soon, your guide directs you to a clearing and the dogs slow to a stop. The views of the valley come into full focus and you take a moment to enjoy the beauty surrounding you while 8 husky pups observe you curiously. Tours allow for up to 6 guests to one guide. Not only will you have an incredible experience to relive memories from time and time again, but you and each of your guests will personally have the chance to drive and ride in the dogsled! $160 per person. Reserve HERE.
Go Skiing: This one is a given! Bring along all of your guests on the ski lift and say your vows at the top before skiing down the hill in your wedding attire together.
Summer
Go offroad: Bring your offroad vehicles or rent jeeps to traverse one or more of the many mountain passes. While each road is different, they all hold beautiful views and rich mining history. Relics of a time when gold and silver were mined from the Rockies. Boreas Pass, French Gulch, Georgia Pass, and Bald Mountain are all great options. During the summer you can also drive up Breckenridge Mountain starting at Peak 9 for stellar views in all directions.
Ride the Gondola: Take the gondola from town and find yourself at the base of the ski hill in no time. Not only will you have stunning views for the entirety of the ride but you will find easy access to a plethora of summer trails that were previously hidden under deep snow throughout the winter! Check out the gondola and other Peak 8 activities HERE.
Go Camping: Peak One Campground is just outside of Breckenridge and sits on the shore of Lake Dillon. You can enjoy the views, get out on the lake, or enjoy hiking the numerous trails on the Frisco Peninsula. There are 80 sites here that can accommodate tents, trailer, and RV’s. You can reserve campsites HERE.
Grab the Fishing Poles: You may have noticed that Breckenridge has many pristine lakes and rivers. This mountain town is known as a prime fishing destination especially for fly fishing! You can enjoy a relaxing afternoon with your crew while waiting for a nibble on the line. You may catch a Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Kokanee Salmon, or a Cutthroat Trout!
Backpacking Trip: Have a rugged crew ready for a wild trek? Plan a backpacking trip and enjoy several days of backcountry scenery away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The Colorado Trail runs right through Breckenridge but there are many more options to choose from within the Summit County area.
Ride Bikes on the Dillon Reservoir Loop: If you and your guests want to extensively explore the area, biking is a great way to take in all of the views and have a ton of fun while doing it! This is an 18.4 mile loop (add a few miles if you leave straight from Breckenridge) that winds through thick trees, open meadows, and over steep hills with astounding and rewarding views. The recreation path is also amazing during the fall. You are guaranteed to get your fill of golden, orange, and red aspen leaves. The aspen groves lining the trail create warm hued tunnels to zip through as their quaking leaves flutter to the ground around you. You may in fact find yourself stopping more than you are actually riding.
Hire the Right Vendors
When it comes to vendors, local is best. Not only are you choosing to support our community, but you are helping keep our small businesses thriving. Below I have listed some of the amazing vendors I have had the pleasure of working along side, each of whom are an integral part of our small mountain town culture and who offer exceptional quality within their profession. Need more ideas? Make sure to check out my preferred local vendor page HERE.
Officiant:
Phil Gallagher // https://www.officiantphilgallagher.com/
Carey Bjornnes // www.wanderinghoneymooners.com
Florist:
Garden of Eden // https://gardenofedencolorado.com/
Petal and Bean // https://petalandbean.com/pages/wedding-planning
Videographer:
Hillhound Productions // https://www.hillhoundproductions.com/
Basecamp Visual // https://basecampvisual.co/classy-mountain-wedding-in-breckenridge/
Planner:
Ebs from Distinctive Mountain Events // https://www.distinctivemntevents.com/
Petal and Bean // https://petalandbean.com/pages/wedding-planning
Hair/Makeup Artist:
Chopping Block // www.bcbsalon.com
I Like Pretty Hair // www.ilikeprettyhair.com
Be Prepared
Lastly, when it comes to our high country weather, you want to be ready for anything! I will list a few of my biggest tips for being prepared for any season below. Remember though, when your day comes; whether rain, snow, or shine, EMBRACE it as part of your experience! The weather is all part of your adventure and can make your photographs even more unique! Mountain Outfitters is a local outdoor gear store and we also have an REI close to town if you forget any of your gear necessities at home.
Spring/Summer
Sun protection: We sit at 9,600 feet in altitude, which means we are a whole lot closer to the sun! Ensure you are able to reduce sunburn risk in some way, especially if you are in town a few days before your elopement or wedding. This also goes for winter too - unless you want that hard earned goggle tan to go down in nuptial history.
Drink water: Our high alpine climate means it is also dry, dry, dry. Make sure you are drinking plenty of water or liquid with electrolytes to avoid altitude sickness and dehydration. Also pack your favorite lotion or tallow to keep your skin from getting parched!
Have a jacket: We often experience afternoon rain showers and have even had snow fall in mid July. Thankfully these are typically short weather outbursts and the sun reveals itself in full warmth shortly after they begin. Although mid summer we have temps in the mid to high 70’s, once the sun goes down, so does that perfect summer temp. Having an appropriate jacket will ensure you remain comfortable if the weather changes.
Good hiking boots (if you are eloping in the wild or hiking for portraits): The trails may be dry and packed or they could be slick and muddy after a rain shower. You want to have rugged enough boots to safely traverse whichever trail you choose. Make sure to break these in prior to your trip or you are guaranteed. blisters and pain!
Fall/Winter
Layer up: Winter is all about layers to keep you warm and toasty. As your attire allows, wear warm undergarments like wool socks and cold weather tights. Bring gloves, good tall snow boots with traction, and shawls, scarves, earmuffs, or any other warm outer layers. My favorite under layer items that perform exceptionally well in our alpine climate are made by Smartwool and Melanzana.
Bring a thermos: Nothing warms you up quite like a hot cup of coffee or cocoa! Stop in town at Breckenridge Coffee Roasters, Cool River Coffee, or The Crown to fill up with your favorite beverage!
Pack hand warmers and toe warmers: Bring these for all of your guests in case the weather gets icy cold during your ceremony. This adds a little extra layer of warmth to keep your loved ones cozy and they are sure to appreciate the guesture.
Consider timing: Winter mornings make for red cheeks, sniffles, and runny noses! Although sparkly and beautiful, they can be brutally cold! January and February are often what we call the ice pit months and early mornings can mean negative temps. A few hours later on the same day and you may be sitting outside in a sweater with 20 degree temps in the sunshine. As you can tell, choosing an afternoon ceremony can mean warmer weather for you and your crew.
Lastly, congrats on your engagement!
This season of planning is so special and should be tons of fun for you and your partner. Take the time to slow down and thoroughly enjoy it - it will go by so fast! Breckenridge is such an amazing mountain town to tie the knot in; with stunning views and plenty to do, you and your crew are sure to have an awesome experience. I hope you found this blog helpful in planning your Breckenridge elopement or intimate wedding day. As you square away details and hire vendors, don’t hesitate to inquire if you are interested in having us join in on your grand mountain adventure!
Some photos in this gallery were second shot for Kelsey Booth, Alyssa Carpenter, Megan MacPhail, Memry Anderson, and Malory Munson.