fbpx
Megan Simpson Photography

Unique Airbnb Locations for Elopements in Estes Park

May 10, 2022

Bride and groom elope in Estes Park, Colorado.
Estes Park, Colorado is an epic spot for an elopement.

In the past few years, elopements have been on the rise, and I have to tell you I am here for it. I love seeing couples choose to do their wedding day their way. No-fuss, no muss- just the two of them pledging their lives to each other in front of whoever they want and however they want.

And as a wedding photographer who loves adventuring in Colorado with my couples, nothing makes me happier than when I get asked to photograph an elopement in Estes Park!

Eloping in Colorado: The Details

There are a few things you need to consider when eloping in Colorado.

There is no waiting period to get married in Colorado! You can apply, get your license, and get married on the same day. Colorado makes it super easy for couples from out of state to elope here.

Colorado is one of the few states where you can self-solemnize, which is a fancy way to say you can marry yourself! You need to obtain and sign a marriage license—no need for a formal officiant or even witnesses. However, you can bring your dog to witness your elopement if you want to. Everything is better with dogs.

Fees are low! A marriage license fee is $30. Some areas do require permit fees as well, but they are usually very nominal.

Once you have the legal stuff figured out, let’s find the perfect Airbnb for your elopement!

Airbnb Elopement Properties in Estes Park, CO for Two

Airbnb has some great locations for elopements. You can find everything from secluded cabins to luxury condos. And if you’re looking for a place to elope in Estes Park, Colorado, I’ve got you covered… here are a few that you want to check out!

The Little Red Treehouse

Let’s start with this: adorable, cute, charming, OMGGGG I love it. A treehouse just outside Rocky Mountain National Park? Yes, please. This pretty little red treehouse is camera ready for elopement photos!

Nestled into the pine trees is this fully appointed treehouse for two. Eat breakfast on the porch with amazing panoramic views and take in the vast starry sky at night. If you love nature but also like heat and air conditioning and a place to shower, this place is for you.

Riverfront Condo with Mountain Views

This condo has everything that people come to Colorado for…Epic mountain views and babbling mountain streams. It’s got all the modern advantages of king-sized beds and hot tubs, set in peaceful surroundings that sleep up to three.

It’s secluded enough to feel like you are tucked away in the wilderness, but it’s a short distance to great hikes, not far from the heart of Estes, and close to  Rocky Mountain National Park. If you’re getting married on a hike, it would sure be a nice place to come back to relax. 

That Dam Cabin

First, let’s give it up for the name. That Dam Cabin is a 309 square foot log-cabin-style treasure on the Shadow Mountain Dam. It’s cozy, but still has enough amenities that you can cook food inside. Or, if you’re like me, you’ll just make S’mores sitting outside around the fire pit on the comfy Adirondack chairs and call that dinner.

A secluded deck and the babbling of the mountain stream are just lovely, and you may even see some wildlife roaming around; elk are often spotted in this area. It’s a great little elopement getaway!

Does it just have to be the two of you for an elopement?

Bride and group celebrate their elopement in Estes Park, Colorado with family and friends.
Choosing to elope with a few close family and friends could be the perfect balance you are looking for!

No! While many elopements are just the wedding couple, some people want to invite a few key people to be present when they wed.

So, if you want to invite your parents, Maid of Honor, or even your dog- that’s totally up to you! Just remember that the more people you have, the more planning is required.

Things to keep in mind when eloping with guests:

1. Make sure everyone is on the same page about what the day will entail. It’s your day, but people like to know what to expect (and what not to expect).

2. Have a plan B for your ceremony location. The weather in Colorado is notoriously fickle.

3. Make sure everyone knows how to get there! This sounds like a no-brainer, but not everyone may be familiar with the area if you’re getting married in a remote location. Give them good directions, or even better- send them a link to Google Maps with the site already plugged in.

Great Airbnb’s for Elopements with a Few Guests in Estes Park

Classic Colorado A-Frame

It’s a dream come true; a spacious and airy A-frame in the woods. I can’t think of anything better than sitting on the deck in the morning and taking in the picturesque sights and sounds in this charming place on Lake Columbine.

The cabin can sleep up to 8, so there is plenty of room for those who matter most to you and who attend your elopement. Close to the town of Grand Lake if you need anything, but still very quiet. You can even snowshoe or cross country right on the property if you’re into the winter scene!

Sunset Ridge Cabin

If you like being in the heart of it all but still want some of that killer Colorado mountain views, this space is fantastic. There are great views of Estes Park and Rocky Mountain Park right from the living room. Lots of outdoor space, and sleeps up to 8.

Located just a few blocks from the charming center of Estes Park, you can get anywhere you want quickly, from great eats to great hikes. This is an excellent choice if you love the outdoors but don’t really want to sleep in it!

Shadow Mountain Log Cabin

I will leave the most important thing here first; a hot tub on the deck with views of the mountains and the lake. If you need to know more, the good news is that it gets even better.

This amazing property sleeps up to 12, and you’ll probably want to never leave. It’s upscale without being fussy and has all of the modern conveniences. Even with a bunch of people, you’ll all have plenty of room to spread out and enjoy every bit of this beautiful cabin.

Estes Park Elopement Photographer

Need a photographer to document your Estes Park elopement? I would be honored to capture your day! As an experienced elopement photographer, I know all of the best locations in Estes Park for your ceremony and some great spots for portraits.

I’m a local, which means I’ll give you all the insider scoop on where to go, what to do, and what tourist traps are crowded and aren’t worth visiting. If you’re planning an elopement in Estes Park, I would love to chat with you about your plans and give you some tips on making the day perfect. Contact me today!

BLOG

Contact

Portfolio

PRICING

About

Home

I book a limited number of couples and families every year... and you deserve to be one of 'em right?!

Megan Simpson Photo

FAMILIES

This function has been disabled for Megan Simpson Photography.