7 Small Wedding Venues in Colorado Perfect For An Outdoor Ceremony

Updated March 26, 2024

If you’re planning an elopement or an intimate wedding, it can seem daunting to rent a space with a high price tag for a small celebration. Instead of spending a fortune on an average location, why not opt for a ceremony against the naturally stunning backdrop that Colorado offers? Yes, we’re hinting at the great outdoors, where Colorado’s wealth of breathtaking landscapes provides a plethora of perfect settings for your nuptials.

For those on the hunt for small wedding venues in Colorado that embrace nature’s grandeur as their ceremonial canvas, we’re here to guide you. From the majestic mountain views of Colorado Springs and the iconic Rocky Mountain wedding scenes to the urban charm of a Denver wedding venue, Colorado is brimming with idyllic spots for your special day. While each of these Colorado elopement venues has its perks, the most important thing is to choose which place feels most authentic to who you are as a couple. Because at the end of the day, wouldn’t you rather share your first kiss somewhere special and meaningful — like on a mountaintop at sunset — than underneath bright fluorescent lights?

1 3M Curve

A fantastic spot in Rocky Mountain National Park, 3M Curve is a gorgeous (and popular) place for ceremonies. While it may seem challenging to get to, the walk from your car to your ceremony spot is only minutes — score! This small wedding venue in Colorado only allows 15 people total, including yourself, your partner, and any vendors you hire. The only thing you’ll need to pay for is a permit and an entry fee, which means your wallet won’t feel the blow of the cost should you have opted for a more traditional wedding.

#2 Bear Lake

Not nearly as ferocious as its name implies, Bear Lake offers a peaceful and breathtaking setting for a Colorado wedding, perfect for intimate gatherings of 20 guests or fewer. Reaching this picturesque ceremony spot involves a brief hike, so if you’re planning a winter wonderland wedding, consider swapping traditional footwear for snow boots. While a permit and entry fee are required, they are minor details when weighed against the majestic mountain views and serene reception space this Colorado wedding venue has to offer.

#3 Lily Lake

The sweetest little dock at Lily Lake makes for a perfect small wedding venue in Colorado. The dock is perfect for parties of 10 or fewer. However, if you want to invite more guests, the nearby picnic area can accommodate up to 30 people. Remember, this count includes you and any vendors. A permit and an entry fee apply but you can rest easy knowing you won’t be shelling out an arm and a leg for a simple but beautiful ceremony.

#4 Lost Gulch

For those considering a mountain wedding venue in Northern Colorado, Lost Gulch is a must-see. While it’s not the most private location, it has views of epic proportions that make for killer photo ops and allows up to 15 people to celebrate your big day. Keep in mind ceremonies are permitted only from May 1st through October 30th, catering perfectly to couples dreaming of a spring, summer, or fall wedding. With the assistance of a wedding planner, exploring what Lost Gulch has to offer could turn your wedding day into an unforgettable mountain experience.

#5 Golden Gazebo

If you’re in search of the best wedding venues in Colorado with a cozy feel and protection against unpredictable weather, the Golden Gazebo at Boettcher Mansion is an exquisite selection. Perched on Lookout Mountain, this venue may command higher rental fees compared to others in Rocky Mountain State Park, but the gazebo itself guarantees a bit of shelter if your big day calls for rain. Accommodating up to 20 guests with ample parking available, the Golden Gazebo is perfect for an intimate wedding reception. Availability here varies, so be sure to contact us if you’re considering this venue for your wedding day.

#6 Chautauqua Park

Wondering if the Flatiron Mountains views come at a steep cost for your wedding ceremony? You’ll be happy to know that a Chautauqua Park ceremony is incredibly affordable. Unlike some other Colorado outdoor wedding venues that might lack accessibility, Chautauqua Park boasts convenient amenities like nearby restrooms and a playground for the little ones in attendance. With a cozy guest capacity of 10, this Colorado mountain wedding venue is ideal for those dreaming of an intimate wedding ceremony amidst nature’s beauty.

7 The Paint Mines

If you’re thinking that a small wedding in Colorado is perfect for you but are hoping for a unique, non-traditional backdrop, The Paint Mines will satisfy your eclectic itch. Gorgeous and otherworldly (is this really planet Earth?!), this Colorado outdoor wedding venue is nothing short of spectacular, offering an almost extraterrestrial landscape—think vibrant clay hills that demand to be captured in photos. With a capacity for 16, this epic location is perfect if you’re looking to have a small wedding in Colorado. And the best part? No. Permit. Required. Check, please!

A Mountain Of Choices

Colorado’s vast and varied landscapes offer an array of idyllic settings for those seeking the perfect backdrop for their nuptials, from the iconic Rocky Mountain National Park to the tranquil waters of Lily Lake. Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy ceremony in a mountain lodge, a grand celebration in a state park, or a unique wedding reception with stunning mountain views, Colorado’s small wedding venues cater to every desire. With the help of a seasoned wedding planner, couples can navigate through this plethora of options.

Each location promises not just a venue but an unforgettable experience that mirrors the beauty of your love story. As you embark on this joyous journey, remember that the essence of a Colorado wedding lies in the magic of the mountains, the charm of the landscapes, and the promise of a day as timeless as the views are endless. Check out our elopement packages to learn more.

Written by Karen Norian

Karen Norian is an elopement photographer and has photographed over a hundred elopements. Karen has also worked as an elopement planner for Simply Eloped. She's been quoted in the New York Times, Brides, Hello Giggles, Bustle, Yahoo, and more.