In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about planning your wedding in Telluride Colorado—from the best venues to things to do in town and local photography tips for making the most of the breathtaking scenery. Let’s dive in!
Hey, I’m Leah
A Telluride Wedding and Elopement Photographer
I have a passion for capturing love stories in the heart of the mountains. I specialize in documentary-style, true-to-color photography for couples who crave that perfect blend of luxury and adventure in one of Colorado’s most breathtaking destinations.
While I photograph weddings all over the state, Telluride holds a special place in my heart. I’ve spent countless hours exploring its stunning landscapes—from iconic mountain vistas to hidden, off-the-beaten-path gems—so you don’t have to. Whether you’re dreaming of a grand celebration, an intimate elopement, or something in between, I’m here to help bring your Telluride wedding vision to life.
Why Telluride is the Perfect Wedding Destination
Telluride, Colorado, is a dream wedding destination for couples who want stunning mountain views, a charming historic town, and an intimate atmosphere. Whether you’re planning an adventurous elopement or a grand celebration, this picturesque mountain town offers an unforgettable backdrop for your special day. Here’s why it stands out:
- Scenic beauty – Every corner of Telluride provides an incredible photo opportunity.
- Exclusive and intimate – The town’s remote location makes it feel private and special.
- All-season appeal – Whether you want a snow-covered winter wedding or a summer wildflower ceremony, Telluride has it all.
- So much to do – From epic outdoor adventures to shop-lined streets and fine dining, there are endless things to do in Telluride. Give your wedding guests a weekend filled with experiences.
Best Wedding Venues in Telluride, Colorado
Telluride offers a variety of wedding venues that cater to different styles, from rustic mountain settings to luxurious resorts. If you are considering getting married in Telluride, here are some of my favorite venues as a Telluride Wedding Photographer.
View them all or skip to a specific venue below:
- Telluride Mountain Lodge
- San Sophia Overlook
- Palmyra Lookout
- Tomboy Tavern
- The Peaks Resort & Spa
- Dunton Hot Springs
- Gorrono Ranch
Telluride Mountain Lodge
A charming and versatile venue that offers an all-inclusive wedding weekend experience. With cozy cabin lodging for guests, a picturesque on-mountain ceremony site, and several different reception sites to accommodate any group size, no matter the wedding day vision, this venue can bring it to life. If you’re thinking of planning a wedding in Telluride, consider The Telluride Mountain Lodge for an effortless, unforgettable experience.
Highlights:
- Great for small to medium-sized weddings; reception site options range between 30 – 150 people
- On-site accommodations including luxury log cabins, two-bedroom condominiums and suites
- Conveniently located by the base of the gondola in Mountain Village
- Available year-round
- Hotel Website: Telluride Mountain Lodge
San Sophia Overlook
Located near the top of Lift 7 and accessible by the gondola, this mountain-top ceremony site offers panoramic views of Telluride and the surrounding peaks. A short path connects the gondola station to the site, providing an adventurous wedding day experience while still easily accessible for all guests. It features a flagstone aisle, a wooden platform on the ridge, and a large grass amphitheater. For couples searching for the best Telluride wedding venues, this spot provides an unbeatable backdrop.
Highlights:
- Great for big weddings – up to 250 guests
- Available June-October (Summer Season) and December-March (Winter Season)
- Elevation: 10,540 ft.
- Venue website: Telluride Mountain Resort
Palmyra Lookout
Photo Credit: Nathan George Photography and Abie Livesay
If you’re planning a wedding in Telluride, Palmyra Lookout is a great place to start! It is a newly built stone wedding deck located on Telluride Resort at the top of Lift 5, the Polar Queen Express. This venue is perfect for couples looking for a luxury mountain experience and is at the top of my bucket list to shoot at!
Highlights:
- Ceremony & cocktail hour venue for up to 150 guests
- Available mid-June through September
- Elevation: 11,200 ft.
- Venue Website: Palmyra Lookout
Tomboy Tavern
Photo Credit: Keeley Hays
“With a slope-side patio and a fully remodeled interior, Tomboy is a contemporary take on the classic tavern. Its character is warm and inviting without sacrificing elegance or quality.” – Telluride Mountain Resort
If you’re having your ceremony at San Sophia Overlook or Palmyra Lookout, consider ending your evening at Tomboy Tavern. Located at the base of Lift 4 and in the Mountain Village, it’s accessible via the free gondola and provides an opportunity for your guests to really soak up Telluride’s iconic mountain views. Because all three of these locations are owned by the resort, it makes for easy booking!
Highlights:
- Ideal for welcome parties, rehearsal dinners & intimate wedding receptions
- Fits up to 75 guests seated, 120 guests cocktail
- Available June-October (Summer Season), limited availability December-March (Winter Season)
- Elevation: 9,500 ft
- Venue website: Tomboy Tavern
The Peaks Resort & Spa
Photo Credit: Sarah Porter Photography and Wedding Wire
The Peaks is a premiere, full-service resort in Mountain Village. Combining elegance with contemporary charm, this venue is perfect for those who cherish the beauty of the mountains without compromising on luxury and comfort for their guests.
Designed for effortless transitions throughout your big day, The Peaks offers three distinct yet cohesive spaces, each offering its own unique ambiance and charm. Combine all three together or choose your favorite to customize your perfect wedding day!
Mt. Wilson Terrace
Say “I do” against a backdrop of towering mountains, where every season provides a stunning setting. This terrace offers a front-row view of the iconic Telluride landscape, ensuring a truly unforgettable moment as you exchange vows.
Photo Credit: Sarah Porter Photography
Crystal Room
With floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing the majestic Mt. Wilson peak, the Crystal Room is radiant during the day and exudes a romantic glow after sunset. Featuring an elegant minimalist lighting design and a spacious dance floor, this space also provides direct access to the terrace, allowing guests to enjoy the crisp mountain air throughout the evening.
Photo Credit: Abie Livesay
Legends Dining Room
For a reception filled with warmth and sophistication, the Legends Dining Room offers classic wooden-beam ceilings, flagstone floors, and a neutral color palette that complements any wedding décor. The room’s direct terrace access ensures a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor celebrations.
Photo Credit: Jason and Daris Photocinema
A Spa Experience Like No Other
Beyond the wedding day, The Peaks Resort boasts Colorado’s largest spa and fitness center, inviting couples and guests to indulge in an exceptional variety of treatments and wellness activities. Whether you’re looking to unwind before the big day or rejuvenate after a night of celebration, the spa provides the perfect retreat.
Dunton Hot Springs
Photo Credit: Cedar and Pines Photography
Dunton, a romantic ghost town turned resort near Telluride, offers cozy cabins and mineral hot springs for a unique wedding experience. The venue features lush forests, personalized menus, and access to historic facilities like the dancehall, saloon, and an open-air chapel. Guests can also enjoy seasonal activities such as horseback riding, fly-fishing, skiing, and dog-sledding. The property accommodates up to 68 guests, and can be fully rented out if your wedding includes 14+ people.
Highlights:
- Perfect for small, intimate wedding celebrations
- Open year-round
- On-site lodging (52 guests at the Hot Springs, 16 at the River Camp)
- More secluded if you’re looking to avoid tourist crowds – about one hr from Telluride
- Venue website: Dunton Hot Springs
Photo Credit: Cara Mia Photography (first two images) Cedar and Pines (third image)
Gorrono Ranch
Photo Credit: Jason and Daris Photocinema
Nestled on the mountainside, Gorrono Ranch offers the perfect blend of rustic charm and breathtaking alpine views. With Mt. Wilson as the backdrop, couples can exchange vows or enjoy cocktail hour on the venue’s outdoor decks while taking in the surrounding natural beauty.
The main lodge features two spacious dining rooms, cozy stone fireplaces, and ample room for a live band or DJ, making it an ideal space for dinner and dancing. Whether you’re planning a large celebration with up to 200 guests or a more intimate gathering of 100, the ranch provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere that suits any wedding size.
For an extra touch of charm, the property includes two historic cabins, perfect for winding down after the festivities. Guests can gather around an antique wood stove for a bourbon tasting or step outside for romantic, lantern-lit portraits under the night sky.
If you’re looking for a wedding venue that captures the essence of mountain beauty and Western elegance, Gorrono Ranch delivers an unforgettable experience.
Venue website: Gorrono Ranch
About Telluride, Colorado – A Brief History
Originally a mining town in the late 1800s, Telluride has transformed into a world-renowned outdoor paradise. While its past is rooted in gold and silver mining, today, it’s best known for its luxury ski resorts, stunning alpine scenery, and vibrant arts and festival culture. The town maintains its historic charm with preserved Victorian buildings, giving it a unique blend of old-world character and modern elegance.
Where is Telluride and How to Get There
Telluride is nestled in the San Juan Mountains in southwestern Colorado. Unlike some of Colorado’s more accessible mountain towns, Telluride feels secluded, adding to its appeal for an exclusive wedding experience. The closest major airports are:
- Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ) – about 1.5 hours away, with shuttle services available.
- Telluride Regional Airport (TEX) – a smaller airport with limited flights but the closest option.
- Durango-La Plata Airport (DRO) – about 2.5 hours away.
Once you arrive, you can get around town easily by foot, bike, or the free gondola, which connects Telluride to Mountain Village.
If you’re planning to drive in from Denver, it is about a 6 hr drive. My recommendation is to take HWY-285 to US-50. It’s super scenic, and Buena Vista is a pretty town to stop through on the way.
The Best Season to Get Married if You’re Planning a Wedding in Telluride
Each season in Telluride offers unique charm and challenges. Here’s a breakdown:
Spring (April – June)
- Pros: Fewer crowds, lush greenery, waterfalls at their peak.
- Cons: Unpredictable weather, some venues and off-roading mountain passes may still be closed. Likely snow at high elevation, which can limit location options, especially for elopements.
- Best for: Couples who want a quieter experience and love the freshness of spring.
Summer (July – September)
- Pros: Warm temperatures, vibrant wildflowers, long daylight hours.
- Cons: Peak tourist season, higher costs. Can have a lot of mosquitos at locations by water.
- Best for: Outdoor ceremonies, adventurous elopements, and couples who want sunny, warm weather.
Fall (September – November)
- Pros: Stunning golden aspen trees, cooler temperatures, fewer tourists.
- Cons: Early snowfall may occur, some venues start to close for the season.
- Best for: Couples who want a colorful, romantic backdrop with crisp mountain air.
Winter (December – March)
- Pros: Snow-covered peaks, cozy lodge settings, magical ski resort weddings.
- Cons: Cold temperatures, potential travel difficulties.
- Best for: Ski-loving couples or those dreaming of a winter wonderland wedding.
Best Month to Get Married in Telluride: September is often considered ideal because of the perfect balance of mild weather, stunning fall foliage, and fewer crowds.
Things to Do in Telluride
For couples and guests looking to explore before or after the wedding, Telluride offers plenty of activities:
- Outdoor Adventures – Hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, skiing, snowboarding, and fly fishing.
- Festivals – From the Telluride Film Festival and Yoga Festival to the Bluegrass Festival, the town is full of cultural events.
- Historic Downtown – Stroll through charming streets filled with boutiques, galleries, and fine dining.
- The Free Gondola Ride – Enjoy scenic views between Telluride and Mountain Village.
- Relax and Unwind – Luxury spas, hot springs, and cozy lodges make for a perfect retreat.
- Distillery Tasting – Offered at Telluride Distilling Company
- Via Ferrata – An adrenaline-pumping climbing route along Telluride’s cliffs, offering breathtaking views and a thrilling adventure for those seeking excitement. I recommend booking a guided tour through Mountain Trip.
Final Thoughts
Getting married in Telluride, Colorado, is a dream for couples who love breathtaking scenery, adventure, and an intimate setting. Whether you choose a lush summer ceremony, a golden fall backdrop, or a snowy winter wonderland, Telluride offers an unforgettable experience. As a Telluride wedding photographer, I’ve captured countless love stories in this incredible location, and I’d love to help you create yours. Reach out and let’s get started planning your perfect Telluride wedding!
