Bride and groom walking hand in hand near Lake Dillon Reservoir after their elopement ceremony.

An elopement during blue hour at Lake Dillon Reservoir in Colorado is nothing short of magical. The serene blue hues of the sky and tranquil waters, paired with the stunning mountain backdrop creates an ethereal setting perfect for an intimate elopement or micro wedding.

Jonni and Brian traveled from Missouri for their Colorado elopement. Jonni was scheduled to be in Colorado for a teaching conference, and the two decided why not? Lake Dillon was the perfect choice for their elopement because it was close to where they were staying, easily accessible and had those unbelievable, panoramic mountain views.

boat floating in lake dillon reservoir in front of the rocky mountains

bride and groom smiling at eachother during their lake dillon reservoir elopement

Couple's first dance near the water of the lake dillon reservoir

Why Choose Lake Dillon for Your Elopement?

Lake Dillon Reservoir offers a variety of beautiful spots for your special day. Whether you're looking for a secluded campsite or a picturesque viewpoint, this location has something for every couple. Permits and reservations are only necessary in some situations, depending on location and group size, making Lake Dillon an affordable, easy elopement option.

As your elopement photographer, one of my main jobs before our shoot is location scouting. I drive around for hours looking for the perfect photo spots. I video chat with all of my couples to understand what they envision for their elopement photos, what’s most important to them. This helps me define what location will work best for their needs. Jonni & Brian opted for one of the less popular hiking trails for their ceremony. Their priorities were privacy & views. We decided on a secluded beach at sunset. They exchanged personal written vows, did a first dance and popped some champagne. As the sun started to set, the sky erupted in pinks and oranges. It was a simple, yet heartfelt evening to be a part of.

Bride emerging from forest for her first look with her groom

Groom seeing his wife for the first time on their elopement day at lake dillon reservoir

Groom putting on ring on his wife during elopement ceremony at lake dillon reservoir

Pros of Eloping at Lake Dillon Reservoir

Stunning Scenery - The reservoir is surrounded by the Rocky Mountains, providing a breathtaking backdrop for your ceremony. The waters of Lake Dillon create a peaceful and picturesque setting, perfect for romantic photos.
Intimate and Secluded - With numerous secluded spots, you can enjoy a private and intimate ceremony.
Adventure Opportunities - Take advantage of the location with activities like hiking, boating, and fishing before or after your ceremony. Spend your first night as a married couple under the stars at one of the scenic campgrounds.
Cost-Effective - Campsite fees at Lake Dillon are generally reasonable, making it an economical choice for nature-loving couples.
Accessible Location - Lake Dillon is conveniently located near Denver, making it easy for guests to travel if you decide to include a few close friends or family members. Nearby towns like Dillon, Frisco, and Silverthorne offer amenities such as lodging, dining, and shopping for added convenience.
Versatility - Choose from a range of locations around the reservoir, from lakeside spots to forested areas, to find the perfect setting for your ceremony. Each season offers a unique charm, whether it's the vibrant colors of fall, the snowy landscapes of winter, the blooming wildflowers of spring, or the golden days of summer.

couple bowing their heads together at their elopement ceremony at lake dillon reservoir

couples' hands reaching for eachother over lake dillon at sunset

Groom giving wife a hug from behind at their elopement ceremony at lake dillon reservoir

To ensure your elopement at Lake Dillon Reservoir is smooth and compliant with local regulations, here's the information you need about permits and rules:

Permit Rules for Eloping at Lake Dillon Reservoir

Special Use Permits: If you plan to hold your elopement ceremony on public lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service, you may need a special use permit. This includes areas like campgrounds, trails, and scenic overlooks.
Dillon Ranger District Contact: For the most accurate and up-to-date information, contact the Dillon Ranger District office. They can provide details on whether your specific location and planned activities require a permit, as well as application procedures and fees.
- Dillon Ranger District Office:
  - Phone: (970) 468-5400
  - Address: 680 Blue River Parkway, Silverthorne, CO 80498
Group Size Limits: Depending on the location, there may be limits on the number of people allowed at your event. This is to minimize impact on the environment and ensure a positive experience for all visitors. Check with the Dillon Ranger District for specifics.
Leave No Trace: All visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles. This means packing out all trash, respecting wildlife, and minimizing your impact on the natural surroundings.

Bride's friends squeezing her for a celebratory hug after the elopement ceremony ended

Bride and groom pop a bottle of champagne after their elopement ceremony at lake dillon reservoir

Eloping at Lake Dillon Reservoir allows you to celebrate your love in a beautiful, natural setting, creating unforgettable memories in a place that truly reflects the spirit of adventure and romance. If you are looking for a photographer that can guide you while planning a Colorado elopement, let’s talk here!