Cottonwood Pass Hiking Mountain Elopement in Colorado
Alex and James, how did I get so lucky to spend an evening with you two in the Colorado mountains?
From the moment I pulled into the brewery to pick you up, I knew this was going to be something special. You were calm, excited, and so ready to be married. Thank you for inviting me to journey alongside you for your hiking elopement near Cottonwood Pass. Being included in days like this is something I never take for granted, and I walked away from this one feeling like I had made real friends.
When we loaded up the car for the drive toward Buena Vista, James brought along two cans of celebratory beer from the brewery where he works. One of them busted before we even left. Without missing a beat, I made them stand in the shade and chug it. If you are going to elope in the mountains, you might as well start the evening off right.
On the drive up, we talked and got to know one another. Their story. Their rhythm together. I warned them that my body is not exactly built for speed hiking and that the forty five minute trek from the trailhead might take me a bit longer. They were endlessly kind and patient. James and I quickly became break buddies, while Alex powered ahead like the mountain queen she is.
Hiking to Lost Lake Trail Near Cottonwood Pass
Their elopement took place along Lost Lake Trail, a trail near Cottonwood Pass that winds through trees, across muddy patches, and over makeshift stick bridges. Parts of the route run near sections of the Colorado Trail, which stretches for hundreds of miles through the state.
We passed through what we lovingly dubbed the Sound of Music area, scrambled over boulders, and climbed one final hill. When we crested the top, my heart raced. Below us was the most beautiful alpine pond I have ever seen. Still water. Snowy mountains. Absolute solitude. It was perfect.
An Intimate Mountain Ceremony by the Lake
Alex and James changed into their wedding clothes right there in the open air while I worked some quiet magic with their wedding details. When they were ready, I followed them down to the edge of the lake where they exchanged vows, rings, and their hearts. No audience. No distractions. Just the two of them committing to one another in a space that felt sacred.
After their ceremony, we moved to another spot by the pond for a second ritual. They shared scotch from the same small dish, a tradition symbolizing trust and unity. Drinking from the same cup as a promise to be true to one another. It was deeply meaningful, and I felt honored to witness it.
Weather, Stillness, and Trust
Just as they began this exchange, sleet started to fall. We paused. We laughed. We waited. And just as quickly as it came, it passed. Cold white flakes floated around us while Alex and James stood close, their laughter warming the moment.
Hiking Back at Dusk
We headed back toward the trailhead just before dark, James leading the way. We only got turned around once before finding the trail again. On the drive back, rain tapped against the windows while we listened to their favorite songs. It felt peaceful. It felt right. It felt like love in its truest form.
Thank you, Alex and James, for trusting me to document your Cottonwood Pass hiking elopement. For allowing me into your story. For choosing something honest and intentional and beautifully your own.
If you are reading this and dreaming of a Colorado hiking elopement of your own, somewhere quiet and wild and deeply meaningful, I would love to help you create that space. There is nothing quite like saying your vows surrounded by mountains, still water, and the kind of love that feels steady and sure.
