Eloping at Loveland Pass is perfect for couples who want a true, mountain elopement experience. That means you have plenty of options for places to stay, eat, and have fun if you want to make a trip out of your elopement. The pass itself will give you epic mountain views, regardless of the exact spot you choose to elope.
Here is more need-to-know information about Loveland Pass!
I typically only recommend eloping at Loveland Pass for couples who aren’t inviting any friends or family. This location can accommodate up to 75 people, but it sits at 12,000 feet in elevation, so it runs the risk of your loved ones being affected by the altitude.
It also really requires people with an open mind. The weather can be extra tricky that high in the mountains, so a lot of times my Loveland Pass couples have pivoted to their plan B to allow for a more comfortable experience. Because of the weather, I only recommend eloping at Loveland Pass in June, July, and August.
Loveland Pass elopements don’t require a permit as long as your group 1). is smaller than 75 people and 2). doesn’t involve other vendors like an officiant, planning services, rentals, etc. Lucky for you, photographers get the green light! If you want to have other vendors or a larger group (which I don’t recommend), you’ll need to pay for a commercial permit from the Forest Service. You can get in touch with the Dillon Ranger Service here.
Getting to Loveland Pass is pretty straightforward. I recommend flying into Denver International Airport, renting a car, and then driving the two hours out to Keystone or Breckenridge (the closest mountain towns to Loveland Pass). I always recommend renting an SUV, regardless of what season you’re traveling in. The weather out here is so unpredictable, especially up in the mountains! Safety first.
Don’t forget about getting acclimated to the altitude. If you can, PLEASE get to Colorado at least 48 hours before your elopement date. Some people have a reaction, like feeling lightheaded, and some people don’t. Either way, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Although Loveland Pass is near Keystone, I encourage my couples to stay in Breckenridge for the full mountain town experience! Breck is one of my favorite parts of Colorado, which says a lot because it’s HARD to choose favorites in such a gorgeous state. Some good spots to stay in Breck are the Residence Inn by Marriott, One Ski Hill Place, The Lodge at Breckenridge, and River Mountain Lodge. For something a little different, check out Fireside Inn and the Bivvi Hostel, which both offer dorm-style rooms!
If I was eloping at Loveland Pass and staying in Breckenridge, I would 100% skip the hotels and book a luxury mountain house – they’re such a vibe. Airbnb has some amazing options, from condos to cabins to entire homes. Whether it’s just you and bae or you’re bringing your full crew, I have no doubt you can find something epic. Check out my faves here!
Like I said, if you’re eloping at Loveland Pass, I highly recommend staying in Breckenridge. There is seriously something for everyone. A lot of activities depend on what season you’ll be visiting, so here’s a breakdown of the most popular ways to spend your time. This isn’t even close to everything – check out more ideas here.
Remember – all these activities are snow dependent, which means opening and closing dates shift a little every year. If you’re visiting in November or April, make sure to double check that the things you want to do are open.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – the weather in Colorado is unpredictable, so pack for anything and everything! Speaking from experience (hail storms aren’t fun), it’s way better to be safe than sorry. Make sure these get in your suitcase:
What You Need to Elope in Colorado
Comfy Colorado Winter AirBnb Elopement
Denver Botanic Gardens Wedding