Best Time of Year for a Colorado Wedding: A Seasonal Guide

Let’s Find the Perfect Season for Your Colorado Mountain Wedding

Alright, so you want to know the best time of year for your Colorado wedding.

Colorado is one of those rare places where every season brings something completely different—golden aspens in the (early) fall, wildflowers in the summer, snowy mountain peaks in the winter (and spring..and sometimes into summer), and fresh, quiet landscapes in the spring.

If you’re dreaming of a Colorado wedding but aren’t sure when to plan it, I’ve got you!

After years of photographing intimate weddings and elopements all over the state, I know exactly what to expect in each season—the weather, the scenery, the best locations, and the little surprises that make Colorado weddings so unforgettable.

So let’s dive in: What’s the best time of year for your Colorado wedding?

January–April: Winter Wonderland

Best time of year for Colorado winter wedding
  • Peak snow season here in the Colorado mountains! As you go up in elevation, you can almost guarantee a winter wonderland of landscape
  • Great time for ski/snowboard elopements
  • Weather can often be windy (and of course, cold)

Winter weddings in Colorado are stunning, but they do require some extra planning—think road closures, cold temps, and early sunsets. But if you love snowy peaks and cozy vibes, it’s totally worth it!

By late March and April, the foothills start feeling like spring, but the mountains stay deep in winter mode.

Best for Couples Who:
✔️ Want a true winter wonderland wedding
✔️ Love skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, or snowshoe adventures
✔️ Are okay bundling up and confident they can stay comfortable in cold temperatures

Local Tip #1: March is Colorado’s snowiest month—so if you’re hoping for a snowy wedding, this is your best bet!

Local Tip #2: Mountain towns without ski resorts, like Estes Park, tend to be less busy during this time of year!

May: The Transition Month

Spring wedding in Colorado
  • Snow is melting (but still very present at higher elevations)
  • Unpredictable weather—warm and sunny one day, surprise snowstorm the next
  • Green valleys starting to come alive
  • Fewer tourists = more intimate locations

May in Colorado is tricky. It’s not quite winter, but summer hasn’t fully arrived either. Lower elevations (like Fort Collins, Boulder, Lyons, and areas like Garden of the Gods) start feeling like spring, while the mountains are still waking up from winter. Some high-altitude spots and mountain passes may not be accessible yet.

Best for Couples Who:
✔️ Want a peaceful, off-season wedding with fewer crowds
✔️ Love a mix of late winter/early spring scenery
✔️ Don’t mind rolling with unpredictable weather

Local Tip: Late May is your best bet for comfortable temps and dry trails. Maybe just avoid Mother’s Day weekend, as it can be surprisingly busy!

Check out a snowy May elopement in Estes Park, Colorado here!

June: Warmer Days are Here!

June wedding in Estes Park, Colorado
  • Longer days and warmer weather
  • Early wildflowers at lower elevations
  • High-altitude locations start opening up, especially by mid-June
  • More visitors, especially later in the month

June is when Colorado really starts to wake up. Wildflowers begin popping up in the foothills and lower mountain meadows. If you love lush green landscapes and snow-capped mountains, without the peak summer crowds, early-to-mid June is a great sweet spot.

Best for Couples Who:
✔️ Want warm (but not too hot) weather
✔️ Love the idea of early summer wildflowers
✔️ Want high-elevation access without the full summer crowds

Local Tip: If you’re dreaming of an alpine lake wedding, aim for at least late June. Otherwise, many high-elevation trails are still snow-covered!

July–August: Peak Summer Magic

Summer wedding in Colorado
  • Long, golden evenings
  • Peak wildflower season
  • High-alpine locations are fully open
  • The busiest time of year for tourism, but understandably so
  • Afternoon thunderstorms that make for great sunsets!

Colorado summers are pure magic. Picture wildflowers in full bloom, warm days, cool nights, and endless mountain adventure. Seriously, I live for these months.

If you want those jaw-dropping, high-elevation wedding spots, this is the time to do it.

Best for Couples Who:
✔️ Want the most reliable warm weather
✔️ Dream of wildflowers and lush mountain landscapes
✔️ Don’t mind navigating summer crowds

Local Tip: Go for a weekday or sunrise ceremony to avoid the busiest times (and clearest weather). Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!

September: Golden Aspens & Perfect Temps

Fall wedding in Rocky Mountain National Park
  • Peak fall color (mid-to-late September)
  • Warm days, crisp evenings
  • Popular for weddings—book venues & vendors early!

Ahh, September. The time my husband and I chose for our own wedding. The aspens turn vibrant gold, the weather is still warm (but not scorching), and the summer crowds start to fade. If you’re dreaming of those iconic golden leaves, mid-to-late September is your sweet spot.

Best for Couples Who:
✔️ Want stunning fall colors in their wedding photos
✔️ Prefer crisp mountain air over summer heat
✔️ Love the idea of a cozy, golden-hour ceremony

Local Tip: Peak aspen season is usually the third or fourth week of September, but it varies slightly based on weather and location. Don’t forget to keep an eye on forecasts!

October–December: The Cozy & Snowy Season

November wedding in Estes Park, Colorado
  • October: Cooler temps, lingering fall colors at lower elevations
  • November: First real snowfalls, quieter locations
  • December: Full-on winter wonderland

Fall fades fast in Colorado, and by late October, snow starts dusting the high peaks. If you love cozy lodge vibes, fireplaces, and maybe a light snowfall on your wedding day, this is your season.

By December, the mountains are typically a full-on winter wonderland—think ski lodges, snowy forests, and intimate cabin weddings.

Best for Couples Who:
✔️ Want moody fall or snowy winter vibes
✔️ Love cozy settings—think blankets, hot cocoa, and candlelit dinners
✔️ Are open to unpredictable weather (especially in November)

Local Tip: Early October in Southwest Colorado and the foothills can still have beautiful fall colors, while the mountains transition to winter much sooner!

Final Thoughts: What’s the Best Month for You?

Colorado is breathtaking year-round—it’s all about finding the season that fits your wedding vision. Whether you’re dreaming of golden aspens, wildflower meadows, or a snow-covered lodge, there’s no wrong choice.

Need help choosing the perfect time for your Colorado wedding? I’ve photographed weddings in every season and can help you find the best locations, timing, and game plan for your dream day. Let’s make it happen!

Your Colorado Wedding & Elopement Photographer

So you want to have a wedding in this beautiful state? I can help match you with the best locations and the best time of year for your Colorado wedding!

Think we might be a good fit? Fill out the inquiry form below.

Estes Park, Colorado photographer

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