Ray and Casey’s wildflower elopement felt like being invited into a really meaningful day that just happened to include vows. I already knew Casey through a mutual friend, so when she reached out about eloping in Colorado, there was an immediate ease to it.

Even though they’re based in California, Steamboat Springs has always been their place. The kind of place you return to over and over because it feels grounding and familiar. They’d vacationed there enough times that choosing it for their elopement made total sense. It already held memories, which mattered more to them than picking somewhere flashy. They kept it truly simple: just Ray and Casey, with our mutual friend Lauren officiating.

The whole day followed that same energy. They hung out at their cozy Airbnb, made frozen pizza before saying their vows (honestly, one of my favorite pre-ceremony meals to date), and let the day unfold naturally. That calm, laid-back approach set the tone for everything that followed.

Western Details, Wildflower Elopement Fields, and Rabbit Ears Pass at Sunset

Ray and Casey leaned into a western vibe that actually fit who they are. One of the most personal moments came from the custom brand they had made. They branded pieces of cowhide together, which was a unique touch.

As the evening rolled in, we headed up to Rabbit Ears Pass for sunset portraits right at peak wildflower season. Endless purple fields, soft summer light, and the kind of open space. It was one of those Colorado evenings that feels almost unreal—except for the mosquitoes, which were very real and absolutely relentless. Bug spray was doing the most, and honestly, it still wasn’t enough. We wrapped things up with sunset portraits and a simple “we eloped” sign for a small nod to what the day was really about.

When do Wildflowers Bloom in Colorado?

Wildflower season in Colorado isn’t tied to a single month. It’s tied to snowmelt and elevation. The higher you go, the later things bloom. It’s simple science, but it makes a huge difference when you’re planning an elopement.

7,000–8,500 ft | Early Summer Blooms (Mid–Late June)

This elevation range is ideal for couples who want an earlier summer date without committing to full alpine conditions.

Common locations include:

• Foothills and lower mountain valleys
• Parts of the Front Range
• Lower-elevation trails near Estes Park and Boulder

8,500–10,000 ft | Peak Summer Sweet Spot (Late June–Mid July)

This is where Colorado really shows off, and where Steamboat Springs and Rabbit Ears Pass absolutely shine.

Top locations at this elevation:

• Steamboat Springs
• Rabbit Ears Pass
• Breckenridge
• Rocky Mountain National Park
• Gunnison Valley (lower elevations)
• Kebler Pass (earlier in the season)

10,000–11,500 ft | High Alpine Meadows (Mid July–Early August)

If you’re dreaming of iconic Colorado wildflower fields and big, sweeping mountain views, this is where they live.

Popular high-alpine locations include:

• Crested Butte “Wildflower Capital”
• San Juan Mountains (Telluride, Ouray, Silverton)
• Independence Pass
• Boreas Pass
• Hoosier Pass
• Cottonwood Pass

Breckenridge Wedding & Elopement Photographer | Ritual Haus Creative Studios

Planning your own adventure in the mountains? Check out this guide to the best Breckenridge Airbnb elopement and micro-wedding locations! Then, pop over to Jeff and Maddy’s Copper Mountain wedding at Aerie.