Best Forest Wedding Venues in Colorado: The Ultimate Guide Where Vibes Meet Adventure.
Colorado’s forests weren’t made for stiff, posed wedding photos or rigid timelines. They were made for slow mornings with coffee in the cool mountain air and for barefoot walks along pine-needle paths. If you're dreaming of getting married surrounded by towering pines, golden aspens, and mountain air so fresh it makes you want to run away and live in a cabin forever—Colorado has you covered. But finding the right forest wedding venue? That’s where things can get overwhelming.
I’ve done the digging so you don’t have to. Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate elopement deep in the woods or a full-blown celebration under the stars, here are some of the best forest wedding venues in Colorado—places that actually feel like magic.
Let’s find the one that feels like yours.
Top 14 Forest Wedding Venues in Colorado
1. Dunton Hot Springs
Dunton Hot Springs-where woodland and whimsical go hand in hand. The ultimate forest wedding venue in Colorado, in my opinion (if you have the budget, bc shewww $$$).
Photo credit: a mix of my photos plus images grabbed from the venue’s website.
Why I love it: I had to start of this list of forest venues with THE Dunton Hot Springs. I mean did you see Lily Collins wedding? My jaw was on the floor when I saw her photos. But celebrity status aside, this woodland wedding venue is what dreams are made of, even for us regular folks. The light, the mood, and the hot springs? Sign me up.
Location: An abandoned ghost town turned luxury escape in Dolores, CO
Venue Investment: Honestly, it’s a huge range of costs. For smaller weddings and elopements, they have a package for up to 14 guests, but you have to inquire with the venue to get that figure. Or for ballers, you can do a full town buy-out starting at $38,000/night.
Capacity: For lodging, up to 52 guests in 13 luxury cabins; up to 68 with the addition of Dunton River Camp. However the ceremony and reception spaces have capacity for up to 100 guests.
Ceremony Setting: Choose from various scenic spots, including an outdoor chapel or forested areas.
Reception Perks: At Dunton Hot Springs, you can celebrate in the historic Dancehall & Saloon or take your reception outdoors under the stars. With all-inclusive perks like delicious meals, drinks, and access to the hot springs, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxed, unforgettable event surrounded by stunning forest views and luxury accommodations.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with additional details available upon request.
Wild Basin Lodge-a sustainable alpine escape.
Photo credit: a mix of my photos plus images from the venue’s website.
Why I love it: If you’re dreaming of those wild, untouched mountain views, Wild Basin Lodge delivers big time. Sitting on the edge of Rocky Mountain National Park, this venue feels like a secluded alpine escape—because it is. Think riverside vows, towering pines, and that crisp mountain air that just hits different. Bonus: it’s a privately owned venue that prioritizes sustainability, so your wedding can be as eco-friendly as it is stunning.
Location: Allenspark, CO – right by Rocky Mountain National Park.
Venue Investment: Packages start at $13,500 and vary based on guest count, season, and day of the week. Full venue buyouts are available for those who want the entire lodge to themselves.
Capacity: Up to 200 guests with both indoor and outdoor ceremony + reception options.
Ceremony Setting: Say "I do" riverside with the St. Vrain Creek as your soundtrack or opt for their stunning mountain-view meadow. Either way, you’re getting a backdrop that feels straight out of a dream.
Reception Perks: Their timber-frame lodge is cozy yet spacious, with massive windows showcasing the views. All-inclusive packages cover catering (hello, locally sourced meals), bar service, and full wedding coordination—so you can actually enjoy your day stress-free.
Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair accessible, with accommodations available for guests who need assistance.
Piney River Ranch
Photo credit: a mix of my photos plus images from the venue’s website.
Why I love it: Want a wedding venue with that rugged Colorado feel? Piney River Ranch is IT. Sitting at the foot of the Gore Range, this place is straight-up cinematic—towering peaks, a glassy alpine lake, and acres of wilderness. It’s the kind of spot where you half expect a moose to crash your ceremony (it’s been known to happen). Caveat- this venue is only open June through September, so it’s a bit exclusive.
Location: Vail, CO – 12 miles from town, but it feels worlds away.
Venue Investment: Pricing starts at $7,500 for weekday weddings and $12,500+ for weekends. You’ll need to budget for catering and rentals separately, but trust me, the setting alone is worth it.
Capacity: Up to 200 guests.
Ceremony Setting: Exchange vows on the deck overlooking Piney Lake, with the mountains stretching endlessly behind you. Or go fully immersed in nature with a ceremony on the shore. Either way, chef’s kiss.
Reception Perks: The open-air pavilion keeps you close to the scenery while offering shelter (because, you know, mountain weather). In-house catering brings all the cozy, elevated mountain lodge vibes, and you can even end the night around a bonfire. Bonus: on-site cabins and glamping tents mean you and your guests can fully soak in the magic.
Accessibility: The venue itself is accessible, but keep in mind the drive up is a bit of an adventure—unpaved, bumpy, and best tackled with an SUV.
Blackstone Rivers Ranch-a hidden mountain retreat.
Photo credit: a mix of my photos plus images from the venue’s website.
Why I love it: Tucked away just 35 minutes from Denver, Blackstone Rivers Ranch feels like a hidden mountain retreat—close enough to be convenient, but far enough to feel like an escape. No matter the season, it’s intimate, romantic, and effortlessly beautiful.
Location: Idaho Springs, CO
Venue Investment: Packages vary based on the season and day of the week, starting around $8,900 for micro-weddings and going up from there for larger events.
Capacity: Up to 200 guests.
Ceremony Setting: Say your vows beside Chicago Creek, surrounded by towering trees and the soft sound of flowing water. There’s also a beautiful tented pavilion that brings the outdoors in while keeping you covered.
Reception Perks: Twinkling lights, fire pits, and a luxury tented reception space make for a cozy-meets-elegant atmosphere. The venue partners with top-tier caterers, and the flexible space allows for everything from laid-back cocktail hours to full-on dance parties under the stars.
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible, with thoughtful accommodations to ensure all guests can enjoy the experience.
T-Lazy-7 Ranch
Photo credit: a mix of my photos plus Laura Murray’s images from the venue’s website.
Why I love it: If you’re looking for that classic Aspen backdrop—think snow-capped peaks, lush meadows, and aspen groves—T-Lazy-7 Ranch delivers in every season. Nestled at the base of the iconic Maroon Bells, this family-owned ranch offers a perfect balance of rustic charm and wide-open mountain grandeur. Whether you're envisioning a sun-drenched summer wedding or a cozy winter celebration, this venue is pure magic.
Location: Aspen, CO – just 15 minutes from downtown but surrounded by wilderness.
Venue Investment: Pricing varies by event size and season, but expect to start around $7,500 and go up for peak dates and full buyouts.
Capacity: Up to 200 guests.
Ceremony Setting: Exchange vows in the wildflower-filled meadow with the Maroon Bells towering behind you, or opt for a more intimate wooded ceremony site. Either way, it’s pure Colorado perfection.
Reception Perks: The covered lodge and open-air spaces give you flexibility no matter the weather. String lights, cozy fireplaces, and endless mountain views set the scene, while top-tier catering partners ensure a seamless experience. Bonus: since it’s a working ranch, you might even have a few horses photobomb your portraits.
Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair accessible, with accommodations available to ensure all guests can enjoy the celebration.
Della Terra Mountain Chateau in Estes Park.
Photo credit: a mix of my photos plus images from the venue’s website.
Why I love it: Della Terra Mountain Chateau is a forest wedding venue that feels straight out of a fairytale. Nestled against the edge of Rocky Mountain National Park, this secluded, adults-only retreat is all about romance, luxury, and breathtaking scenery (without feeling over-the-top). Think stone archways, cascading waterfalls, and floor-to-ceiling windows that bring the mountains inside.
Location: Estes Park, CO – tucked into the forest at the Fall River entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park.
Venue Investment: Wedding packages start at $8,500 for off-peak dates and go up from there. Since it's a boutique chateau, you can also book a two-night stay for you and your guests to turn your wedding into a full mountain getaway.
Capacity: Up to 200 guests.
Ceremony Setting: Handcrafted wooden pavilion with panoramic mountain views, or opt for the indoor ceremony space with massive windows that frame the Rockies.
Reception Perks: The chateau’s grand ballroom features stunning timber beams, oversized windows, and a private balcony overlooking the forest. With in-house catering, a full bar, and an elegant yet cozy vibe, it's the perfect space for an intimate yet unforgettable celebration. Bonus: since the venue is exclusively yours for the day, there’s no rushing—just soaking in every moment.
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible, with thoughtful accommodations to ensure all guests can comfortably enjoy the experience.
Stone Mountain Lodge
Photo credit: A mix of my own photos plus images from the venue’s website.
Why I love it: Laid-back vibes 🤝 Courtney Hellen. Stone Mountain Lodge is a forrested gem that offers a mix of stunning natural beauty and cozy, down-to-earth spaces. With its red rock backdrop and towering cottonwood trees, it’s the perfect setting for couples who want a mountain wedding without the long drive into the high country.
Location: Lyons, CO – just outside Boulder, with easy access for guests traveling from Denver.
Venue Investment: Packages start around $4,500 for smaller weddings and increase based on guest count and season. Lodging options are available on-site for an added retreat-like feel.
Capacity: Up to 150 guests.
Ceremony Setting: Say your vows beneath the towering red rock cliffs, surrounded by lush greenery and open skies.
Reception Perks: The outdoor reception area is shaded by twinkle-lit trees, creating an intimate, relaxed atmosphere. With an open vendor policy, you have the freedom to bring in your favorite caterers, bartenders, and décor to make the space your own. Plus, on-site lodging means you can turn your wedding into a full weekend getaway.
Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair accessible, with accommodations available to ensure all guests can comfortably enjoy the celebration.
Lyons Riverbend
Photo credit: A mix of my own photos plus images from the venue’s website.
Why I love it: Another laid back wedding venue that has my heart. Surrounded by nature, while still offering all the modern amenities, Lyons Riverbend is a dream. This tucked-away venue along the St. Vrain River is full of Mother Nature’s charm. It’s a peaceful yet vibrant space where you can create memories without the distractions of the outside world.
Location: Lyons, CO – nestled right by the river, just a short drive from Boulder and Estes Park.
Venue Investment: Packages start around $5,000 and vary based on guest count and season. The venue also offers options for a full weekend rental to fully immerse your guests in the beautiful surroundings.
Capacity: Up to 150 guests.
Ceremony Setting: A grassy lawn by the river, with the Rocky Mountains stretching out in the distance. Want some inspo? Check out this incredible botanical inspired wedding with a flower crown bar.
Reception Perks: After your ceremony, enjoy an open-air reception under a spacious tent with rustic wooden beams, or opt for an indoor reception with full windows to keep the river and mountain views in sight. Plus a new modern barn is coming in for the 2025 season.
Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair accessible, with accommodations available to ensure that all guests can comfortably experience the space.
Planet Bluegrass- concert venue + weddings? YAS please.
Photo credit: A mix of my own photos plus images from the venue’s website.
Why I love it: If you're all about an outdoor celebration with a dash of creative flair, Planet Bluegrass checks a lot of boxes. This place is pure Colorado magic, with a riverfront backdrop and sweeping mountain views that will have that adventurous ‘out west’ feeling.. Plus, the vibe here is easygoing yet electric, thanks to its history as a concert venue. If you’re after a wedding that's equal parts laid-back and unforgettable, this is it.
Location: Lyons, CO
Venue Investment: Packages start at around $5,500, with options that can be tailored to your guest count and season.
Capacity: Up to 300 guests.
Ceremony Setting: A grassy field beside the river, with the majestic mountains as your backdrop.
Reception Perks: Celebrate under a spacious tent, where the open sky and mountain views are front and center. The vibe is chill, the space is flexible, and the photo ops are endless.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, with accommodations available for all guests.
The Woodlands in Colorado Springs.
Photo credit: A mix of my own photos plus images from the venue’s website.
Why I love it: The Woodlands is the kind of venue that blends elegance with natural beauty—without ever feeling too polished or overdone. This spot feels like an escape into the wild and it's the perfect venue for couples who want an outdoor celebration that's laid-back, but still full of style and charm.
Location: Colorado Springs, CO
Venue Investment: Packages start around $6,000, with options based on your guest count and time of year.
Capacity: Up to 200 guests.
Ceremony Setting: Beneath a canopy of trees. If you prefer, there’s also an romantic indoor option that still captures the surrounding nature.
Reception Perks: After your vows, head to the reception space, where large windows let in the natural beauty of the landscape, and rustic elements like exposed beams set the tone. The venue is flexible, letting you choose everything from food to décor to music, ensuring your celebration reflects your personal style.
Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair accessible, with accommodations available to ensure all guests can comfortably enjoy the celebration.
Donovan Pavilion near Vail.
Photo credit: A mix of my own photos plus Sarah Rashan’s images from the venue’s website.
Why I love it: Nestled in the mountains of Vail, Donovan Pavilion feels like a retreat, with its breathtaking views of Gore Creek and the surrounding forests. The large windows, rustic wood finishes, and open design bring the outside in, giving the space a light, airy feel that perfectly complements the stunning surroundings.
Location: Vail, CO
Venue Investment: Packages begin at around $6,000, with options that vary depending on guest count and season.
Capacity: Up to 200 guests.
Ceremony Setting: Say your vows by the creek, with the mountains as your backdrop, or in the pavilion’s indoor space with expansive windows that let the natural beauty take center stage.
Reception Perks: The reception space is open, yet intimate, with high ceilings, wood beams, and panoramic views that feel like part of the celebration. You’ll have the freedom to customize everything from catering to décor, ensuring your wedding day reflects your personal style.
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible, with accommodations available to ensure all guests can comfortably enjoy the celebration.
Beaver Creek Resort
Photo credit: images are from the venue’s website.
Why I love it: If you want your wedding to feel like an experience—something unique and full of energy—this is the place. From stunning alpine views to top-tier amenities, it’s a destination that offers everything from cozy indoor venues to breathtaking outdoor scenery. Whether you’re dreaming of a snow-capped ceremony or an intimate reception overlooking the mountains, Beaver Creek can’t be beat.
Location: Beaver Creek, CO
Venue Investment: Packages start at around $7,000, with pricing depending on the season, guest count, and your venue choice.
Capacity: Up to 350 guests.
Ceremony Setting: Outdoors, the resort offers a variety of scenic options, from mountain-top ceremonies to lakeside settings, each providing the perfect backdrop for your vows. If you prefer indoors, their elegant venues bring the beauty of the mountains right into the space.
Reception Perks: Celebrate in style with options ranging from elegant ballrooms to more intimate, rustic spaces. The resort offers customizable packages, so you can choose everything from catering to décor, ensuring a personalized, unforgettable experience. And with accommodations and activities on-site, your guests can make the most of their stay.
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible, with accommodations and amenities to ensure comfort for all guests.
Camp Hale
Photo credit: a mix of my photos plus images from the venue’s website.
Why I love it: Ok, it might be a stretch to add this one to the list of forest wedding venues, but to be fair there are trees on the property. The star of this show is the scenic ceremony location, but there is room to sneak away into the woods for some portraits in the forest. Best of both worlds!
Location: Leadville, CO
Venue Investment: Pricing varies based on event size and customization, so you’ll need to reach out for details.
Capacity: Can accommodate weddings of up to 250 guests.
Ceremony Setting: Exchange vows beside the lake or choose a secluded forest clearing for a more intimate feel.
Reception Perks: Camp Hale gives you the freedom to create an experience as adventurous or refined as you like. Plus, on-site lodging and endless outdoor activities make it easy for guests to turn your wedding into a weekend getaway.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, with additional accommodations available upon request.
The Pines by Wedgewood Weddings
Photo credit: a mix of my photos plus images from the venue’s website.
Why I love it: Simply put, the Pines is forested mountain magic. With its expansive evergreens and aspens, this venue feels like a secret escape tucked away from the hustle and bustle. Imagine exchanging vows with views of the Rocky Mountains, all while the serene forest wraps around you like a cozy hug.
Location: Golden, CO
Venue Investment: Couples typically spend around $7,195 at The Pines, but this base price does not include service fees, taxes, gratuity, or rental fees. Costs can also vary depending on the guest count and season, with peak season running from May to October. For more detailed pricing, it’s best to contact the venue directly.
Capacity: Up to 250 guests, with beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces for both ceremonies and receptions.
Ceremony Setting: Choose between an elegant indoor space with floor-to-ceiling windows and panoramic views, or an outdoor ceremony surrounded by trees.
Reception Perks: Celebrate in the rustic yet chic indoor hall with a cozy fireplace or take it outside to one of the stunning terraces. With delicious catering, top-notch vendor options, and an inclusive package, it’s a versatile venue for those who want something special for a wedding in Colorado.
Accessibility: Fully accessible, with additional details available to ensure your guests have a seamless experience.
Found your forest wedding venue and need a documentary wedding photographer in Colorado?
↓ I’m Courtney, and I’ve Got Your Back ↓
Courtney Hellen, Colorado wedding photographer, capturing love stories with heart and artistry. Specializing in forest wedding venues, Courtney’s photography brings the magic of your day to life, creating timeless memories through digital and analog film.
I’m here to capture your love in a way that’s as unique as you are. Let’s connect and make sure your forest wedding in Colorado is nothing short of unforgettable. From the grand moments to the quiet ones, I’m with you every step of the way, creating memories that are all your own.
Ready to make your forest wedding memories last forever?