Eloping This Spring? Here’s Where to Run Off Before Everyone Catches On

By Adam Hebert, Snarky Ringleader of Runaway Romance, Engaged AF Magazine

It’s that weird, wonderful moment between “snow might still fall” and “tourists are blocking every overlook in Colorado” — AKA, the perfect goddamn time to elope.

Spring is the underdog of wedding seasons, and for our rebellious babes planning to peace out and marry on their own terms, we salute you. Before wedding season goes full circus and the trails are crawling with amateur drone pilots and ring-light TikTokers, you’ve got a golden window.

This is your sign to run. Off. Now.
But make it gorgeous. Make it intentional. And make it a hell of a lot more memorable than a guest list of 187 people and a dry chicken entrée.

Here’s our official, sass-approved list of the most badass spring elopement spots — plus one bonus reminder that you don’t need a mountain to make it matter.

🏔️ 1. Loveland Pass

For the Couple Who Wants Altitude, Attitude, and Maybe Frostbite

Located just off I-70, this spot delivers instant drama. You want towering alpine views? A sky that looks like it was Photoshopped by God herself? This is it. But don’t expect cozy vibes — it’s cold, it’s windy, and it’s high as hell (literally, 12,000 feet). Perfect for early morning ceremonies where your veil might blow into Utah.

Photographer Pro Tip:

Golden hour here doesn’t fuck around. It’s short, it’s sharp, and then it’s gone. You need a shooter who knows how to light you up before the sun taps out.

🌲 2. Mueller State Park

For That “Deep in the Pines” Fairycore Vibe

About 45 minutes west of Colorado Springs, this place is full of tall pines, quiet trails, and that deep forest calm that makes your vows feel like a spell. No crowds, designated ceremony sites, and spring blooms popping through the pine needles? Sign us the hell up.

Bonus:

The trees offer natural shade for soft, glowy photos — no harsh sun. No squinty faces. Just dreamy woodland magic and probably a squirrel or two watching you seal the deal.

🌅 3. Red Rocks Open Space (No, Not THAT One)

For Easy Access + Major Vibes

Yes, this is the little sister to the Denver concert amphitheater, but Red Rocks Open Space in Colorado Springs is a hidden gem with red rock formations, quick trails, and some low-effort, high-reward views.

Logistics:

• Super accessible (no hiking boots required)
• Dog-friendly
• Permits are easy and affordable
• A great option if you want stunning scenery but don’t want to hike uphill in a corset

🪵 4. The Paint Mines

For Weirdos Who Don’t Want Their Wedding to Look Like Anyone Else’s

Let’s get funky. The Paint Mines are located in Calhan, and they look like you landed on another planet — white clay hills, neon-colored rock formations, zero trees, and total quiet. If you’re the kind of couple who says “f*ck trends” and wears velvet in the desert, this one’s for you.

Caution:

Midday here = murder. No shade = harsh AF light and pit stains for days. Aim for sunrise or golden hour, bring water, and don’t wear stilettos unless you want to break an ankle for love.

🧡 5. Anywhere with You, Your Person, and a Damn Good Photographer

Let’s be clear: location is not the point.
You don’t need a mountain to have meaning.

Get married in:

• Your backyard under fairy lights
• A downtown alleyway with a bottle of champagne and zero regrets
• A mossy creek with your dog as your only witness
• A parking garage at night in formalwear under string lights
• A coffee shop booth with matching tattoos afterward

Whatever the spot, the only non-negotiable is a pro photographer who knows how to:

• Work with weird light
• Capture authentic moments
• Embrace chaos
• Tell your story without turning it into a Pinterest copycat

Eloping is about cutting the noise. And that requires intention. Not a crowd.

🎤 Hot Take: You’re Eloping. Not Skipping the Good Stuff.

Just because you’re skipping the 200-person chicken dinner doesn’t mean you don’t get the magic. You still deserve to:

• Write vows that make you sob
• Dance in the dirt
• Pop a bottle like you’re in a rom-com
• Cut a mini cake (yes, even if it’s from Safeway)

And when it’s over? Sit down and film a post-ceremony interview. Tell the story. Explain the why. Capture the truth.
Share it with family. Or don’t. It’s your story. Tell it your way.

🏁 Final Thought: Spring Elopements Are for Rule-Breakers With Good Taste

You’re not “settling.”
You’re not “skipping.”
You’re not being selfish.

You’re building a day that’s raw, intentional, and fully yours.
Spring is your window. Take it. Before the crowds, the chaos, and the obligations roll in.

And if you need a vendor team that gives zero f*cks about tradition and 100% energy toward your elopement goals, hit us up at EpochMoment.com.

💬 Want more rebellious elopement energy?

We’ve got checklists, vow-writing help, and no-BS photo guides at engagedasfuck.com — because your wedding should feel like YOU, not a recycled Pinterest post.