how to elope with a dog in colorado
your guide to dog-friendly colorado elopements
Eloping with your dog in colorado?
If you’re anything like me the idea of getting married with your dog there is unfathomable. They’re not just pets – they’re FAMILY (even if they’re the only family invited to your elopement)! As a dog-friendly Colorado adventure elopement photographer and certifiably crazy dog lady I completely understand why couples choose to have their dogs at their weddings (heck, my husband and I insisted on having our dog at ours back before it had become sort of normal!).
Having your best friend along can come with unique set of considerations – but don’t worry, I’m here to help you out! Let’s talk about how to elope with a dog in Colorado!
Updated November 2, 2024
Why you should trust me
Hey! I’m Jen Dz! I’m a dog-obsessed Colorado-based elopement photographer who loves helping couples incorporate their pups into their day.
My elopement photography journey actually began as a side hustle back in 2016 when my new rescue dog, Cash, needed expensive knee surgery (and I needed to make a little extra money) and exploded when the second wedding I ever shot went wildly viral (because of a dog!)
To say that dogs have always been at the center of what I do would be a massive understatement and I’m happy to have helped hundreds of happy dog-lovers (and their pups) have unforgettable elopement days in some of the most beautiful places on Earth.
dog-friendly colorado elopement locations
When couples start thinking about planning a dog-friendly elopement in Colorado, their research often begins with location. What are the best places to elope with a dog in Colorado? What towns are dog-friendly? Can I elope with a dog in a National Park?
While all of Colorado is really, really dog-friendly, there are some places that really stand out to me, as an elopement photographer as places that give you the best of all worlds. These spots are dog-friendly, stunningly gorgeous, and absolutely perfect places to elope!
crested butte
Crested Butte is known for it’s killer mountain biking and endless wildflowers. It’s surrounded by stunning scenery and one of the most adorable little mountain towns you’ve ever seen!
Breckenridge
Breckenridge is absolutely beautiful and SUPER dog friendly! Think big mountains, beautiful lakes, and a bustling mountain town – all just two hours from Denver airport!
Telluride + the San Juan Mountains
The San Juan mountains are far and away the most beautiful part of Colorado – they’re also FAR and AWAY! The long drive is worth it for blue lakes, jagged peaks, and few crowds.
Twin lakes + Leadville
This is one of my FAVORITE areas for elopements that are close-ish to Denver and it’s also super dog friendly! Explore caves, creeks, two big lakes, and the Continental Divide!
Boulder + the indian Peaks wilderness
If you want to be SUPER close to Denver but still high in the mountains, the Boulder area (and the neighboring Indian Peaks wilderness are perfect. This is a place where you will want to hike to get away from the crowds but if that’s up you alley, it’s perfect!
maroon bells amphitheater
The Maroon Bells are absolutely iconic in Colorado and their gorgeous amphitheater is dog friendly! This is an ideal location for eloping in Colorado with a dog if you plan to bring guests. I highly recommend having your ceremony at the amphitheater and exploring some of the nearby trails with your pup for more iconic views of these beautiful mountains!
Colorado National MOnument
When people think of eloping in Colorado with their dog, they typically picture the mountains but Colorado also has BEAUTIFUL deserts that make a great option during shoulder (aka cold and snowy!) seasons! While dogs are not allowed in most of the Colorado National Monument, they are permitted in a few of the designated wedding and elopement sites!
Can you elope with your dog in rocky mountain national park?
While there are tons of places in Colorado that I recommend for an elopement with a dog, Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) is NOT one of them. Honestly, because of the large crowds and strict rules about where elopements can occur, I don’t really recommend eloping in RMNP to anyone!
The National Parks have very strict rules about dogs in the parks which generally confines them to parking lots. Unless your dog is a service dog, they can’t go on the trails.
The good news about all of this is that Colorado is FULL of places that are pet-friendly AND elopement-friendly.
Can your dog sign your marriage license in COlorado?
YES!!!
I know it may be hard to believe but in Colorado it is perfectly legal for your dog to “sign” your marriage license with it’s pawprint. While you don’t need a witness or officiant to get married in Colorado, why WOULDN’T you want your dog to sign your license?!
Cute witness or CUTEST WITNESS EVER?!?!?!
Note: Why dogs signing marriage licenses in Colorado is generally allowed, it is a county by county rule. Always check with the County clerk and recorder office where you will be picking up your marriage license to make sure they’re cool with it!
dog accessories for your elopement
If you’re the type of couple who is bringing your dog to your elopement, chances are you want them to look fly AF! Here are some of my favorite accessories for your Ring Bear, your Dog of Honor, and your Best Dog! All are available through Etsy.
Leather Ring Pouch
Flower Collar
Dog of Honor Bandana
Tuxedo Bandana
rope leash with flowers
Succulent leather collar
Things to consider when bringing your dog to your colorado elopement
Pick up their poop
You already know this, right? Picking up your dog’s waste is as important in the backcountry as it is in town. Don’t forget to pack your poop bags!
Always Be aware of wildlife
Colorado has loads of wildlife – some of which can be a threat to dogs (like moose, bear, and mountain lions) and some of which the dogs can be a threat to (like pika, birds, and marmots). Please don’t let your pup chase the critters!
Check out some dog-friendly colorado elopements
Colorado elopement dog hall of fame
Meet the dogs!
Let’s be honest – when you bring your dog to your elopement they tend to steal the show! Here are some of the four-legged guests of honor that helped make my couples days so special!
Need a Dog-Friendly Elopement Photographer in Colorado?
I’d love to help you (and your dog) have the best day ever!
Helping dog-loving couples plan unforgettable elopement adventures for them and their pups is my specialty!
Your adventure begins when you get in touch via the contact button below! We’ll set up a time to video chat (and meet each other’s dogs, obviously) and start planning your best day ever!
