Hiking Elopement at Staunton State Park – Anna & Steven’s Sunset Ceremony

Pine, Colorado

staunton state park colorado elopement wedding

By your Colorado adventure elopement photographer — capturing nature, mountains, and love in the wild.

An Intimate Mountain Elopement

Anna and Steven traveled to Colorado for one reason — their deep love of nature and mountain adventure. Together we chose a beautiful trail, winding through fragrant pine forest and golden aspen groves before topping out at a rocky overlook with sweeping, unobstructed mountain views. Our plan was simple: an afternoon hike, reach our lookout by sunset, exchange vows, and cut a tiny cake surrounded by alpine colors and quiet forest whispers.

That afternoon turned into a mini adventure full of laughter, intentional wandering, and a brilliant sunset turning the sky to pinks and golds — an elopement truly worthy of a Colorado state park.

About Staunton State Park

Staunton State Park is one of Colorado’s newer state parks, officially established in 2013. The park spans nearly 4,000 acres of scenic mountain terrain, dramatic granite rock formations, ponds, streams, and hundreds of acres of forested trails — perfect for hiking, climbing, and wildlife viewing. It sits just west of Conifer, Colorado, nestled within Park and Jefferson Counties.

The lands that now make up the park were first protected through a generous donation in 1986 by Frances Hornbrook Staunton, with additional parcels added over the years to preserve ranchland, historic sites, and wildlife corridors.

Trails range from easy forest paths to more rugged mountain hikes, and the park is open year‑round (5 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily). A park pass is required on all vehicles entering the park.

Why Staunton State Park Makes a Great Elopement Location

Natural Beauty: Dense pine forests, open aspens, jaw‑dropping overlooks, and mountain streams.
Privacy: Many trails and ridgelines offer solitude even during busy months.
Adventure Access: Tailor your ceremony to your favorite hike.
Photos that Pop: Dramatic light, open sky, and rich texture from forest to rock.
Close to Denver: Only ~1.5 hours from Denver — perfect for destination couples.

Getting Married in Colorado — Legal Basics

To wed legally, you must obtain a marriage license from the county clerk’s office. Park County is the closest county seat for Staunton State Park:

Park County Clerk & Recorder

Address: 856 Castello Ave, Fairplay, CO (appointments required)

Phone: 719‑836‑4223

Fee: ~$30 (cash or credit)

Once issued, the license is valid immediately and for 35 days anywhere in Colorado. Colorado allows self‑solemnization, meaning couples may officiate their own ceremony if they choose.

Requirements: Both applicants must show valid ID, be at least 18 (with parental consent for ages 16‑17), and not currently married to another person. No blood tests are required.

After your ceremony, the officiant (or couple if self‑solemnized) must return the completed certificate to the clerk within 60 days.

Permits & Park Rules for Weddings

Unlike some smaller parks or wilderness areas, Staunton State Park does require permits for professional photography and many events:

📷 Photography Permit: $45 and valid for three months — required if professional photos are taken.
📑 Special Activity Agreement (SAA): Required for larger activities or organized events (including weddings). Contact the park at staunton.park@state.co.us with at least three weeks’ notice.
🚫 Follow all posted trail closures and restrictions, including wildlife closures and wildfire mitigation closures that may affect some access.

Even if you plan a small, private elopement with no guests or vendors, check with park staff ahead of time — requirements sometimes shift seasonally.

Trail Tips & Wayfinding in Staunton

Some helpful advice for planning your elopement hike:

Simple & Scenic: Choose a trail that fits your comfort level — not all routes require scrambling, but the lookout points often do have uneven rock.
Maps Matter: Bring a physical trail map or download offline maps — cell service can be spotty. The Visitor Center often has free maps.
Sunset Spots: Planning for golden hour? Watch the time carefully — descending steep sections after dark can be tricky.
Stay on Trails: To protect rare plants and avoid closures, stay on designated paths and heed closure signs.

Best Times of Year for an Elopement at Staunton

Colorado offers distinct seasons:

Spring (May–June): Wildflowers, lush greens, mild temps — some snow melt may linger.
Summer (July–August): Warm days and long light — busiest season.
Fall (September–October): Golden aspens and crisp air — ideal colors without summer crowds.
Winter (Nov–Apr): Snowshoe elopements are magical but require winter gear and awareness of conditions.