Sapphire Point Elopement Guide
Sapphire Point Elopement
Located at 9,500 ft above sea level, turquoise blue waters and mountain views are the canvas that await you for your Sapphire Point elopement. Sapphire Point Overlook is located in Dillon, Colorado perched above the blue waters of the Dillon Reservoir and surrounded by the Rocky Mountains. This picturesque ceremony site is a short, easy, and flat walk from the parking area and is one of the best ceremony sites for your Colorado elopement or micro wedding. Couples love Sapphire Point because it is located near the towns of Breckenridge and Keystone off of I-70 just over an hour and half from Denver. This makes it an easily accessible option for those traveling from Denver International Airport. Two of our favorite features are that Sapphire Point is dog-friendly and there are cute chipmunks (not dog treats 😉) who freely explore the area! If you want to exchange your vows amongst an expansive lake and majestic mountain views, this blog has everything you need to learn how to have your own Sapphire Point elopement.
How to Reserve Sapphire Point for your Elopement or Micro Wedding
In order to have a wedding ceremony at Sapphire Point, you must make a reservation. Reservations for Sapphire Point open 6 months in advance on a rolling basis and can be booked on Recreation.gov. Sapphire Point currently allows for one site to be reserved in 3 hour blocks, and reservations cost $120.
When making a reservation, keep in mind that this does not give you exclusive access to the space. Even during ceremonies, the parking area and trail around Sapphire Point is still open to the public and visitors can walk around the trail. Everyone we’ve seen during a ceremony has been respectful and quiet.
🥾 Pro-tip: Due to its popularity, reservations for Sapphire Point Overlook fill up quickly, so be ready to reserve 6 months in advance.
2025 Update: Sapphire Point will be closed Monday-Thursday during June 2-19, 2025 and again September – October, 2025. If you are planning an event between August 31, 2025 and October 2025, please contact the Dillon Ranger District for updates (970)468-5400.
Sapphire Point Overlook Rules
The first thing to consider when eloping at Sapphire Point is how many people will be joining you. Sapphire Point Overlook limits groups to 30 people, which includes yourselves, guests, and your vendors. Moreover, Sapphire Point only allows for 2 vehicles to park per reservation. If your guest count exceeds this number, it is highly recommended to rent a shuttle or other transportation.
Sapphire Point Overlook does not allow food or beverages. If you plan on having any sort of reception, you must have it at an alternative location. Chairs are no longer allowed at Sapphire Point Overlook, and all decorations must be free standing, natural, and removed immediately after the event.
Music is only allowed in acoustic, unamplified form and unable to be heard more than 150 feet away. There is no throwing of any objects such as flower petals, lavender, seeds, confetti, etc. Lastly, there can be no open flames and the ground must remain undisturbed. Read the full list of Sapphire Point Overlook Rules here.
🥾 Pro-tip: as cute as they are, please do not feed the chipmunks! Becoming dependent upon outside human food is harmful to their natural ability to survive in the wild.
Best Times To Get Married At Sapphire Point
Because Sapphire Point Overlook is so easy to access, it makes for a great location any time of the year at which to get married. The snow in winter is magical, and the sunrays over the blue waters in the summer are ethereal.
We suggest choosing your ceremony time during the best lighting of the day. Check out when sunset is for your ideal date and choose a time slot that allows for your ceremony and any additional photos you would like before it becomes completely dark. For the most privacy, sunrise is the best time to get married at Sapphire Point.
Reception Options for after your Sapphire Point Ceremony
As you plan your Sapphire Point elopement, you may envision some sort of celebration after your ceremony. Since Sapphire Point does not allow food or the setup of tables and chairs, you will need to find an alternative reception location. One of the best options is to reserve an accommodating Airbnb or VRBO and hire a private chef to cater your meal. Our favorite local chef is At Your Breck And Call. The Summit County area is also filled with lots of fine dining options like Hearthstone, Aurum Food + Wine, and Vue Rooftop where you can even reserve a space for you and your guests. One local brewery, The Dillon Dam Brewery, also allows you to reserve a room.
Sapphire Point Wedding Tips
Unlike traditional wedding venues that have coordinators and staff to organize events, Sapphire Point Overlook is a barebones outdoor space with little direction beyond the rules to construct your day. To help, here are some Sapphire Point wedding tips for you and your guests to have a great ceremony:
- Wear appropriate shoes, especially in winter, as the trail can be slippery
- Have a backup plan in case of bad weather
- Wear appropriate attire for the time of year
- Have someone coordinate your procession if you plan to use the trail as an aisle. Keep in mind that you can not obstruct the trail entirely.
- Let your guests know that the bathroom on site is a vault toilet
- Create a space of mutual respect and sharing with other visitors
- Hire an acoustic musician to enhance the vibes
Sapphire Point Elopement Photographers
With nearly 10 years of experience photographing and exploring the Rocky Mountains, we have helped over 150 couples exchange vows in Colorado. Our photography services are only the beginning, as we also offer a range of planning services including officiating, reservation assistance, and vendor recommendations. Our Sapphire Point elopement packages start at $5000 and are customizable to fit your specific needs and budget. If you’re ready to make your dream of a mountain elopement a reality, reach out today and let us help you create the most memorable elopement experience.
Alternative Sapphire Point Ceremony Locations
While Sapphire Point Overlook is spectacular, it’s not a perfect fit for every couple. A Sapphire Point elopement may not be right for you if you plan to have more than 30 people, want to host a party or dinner reception on site, or want to chairs for your guests. Additionally, if you want a more private Nature experience away from society, then a popular attraction like Sapphire Point Overlook is not a great fit. Below are are a few alternatives to Sapphire Point Ceremony Locations.
Windy Point Campground is a great alternative to Sapphire Point, that is just up the road. It’s reservable & accommodates up to 100 people. There’s even a gazebo for dinner receptions & camping!
If you’re looking to experience jaw dropping views with less man made structures, Loveland Pass is a beautiful place to get married in Summit County. If you want more decorations and a reception, we suggest the Dillon Park Marina Pavilion & The Lodge at Breckenridge.
Looking for somewhere off the beaten path?
As adventure elopement photographers, we are local Colorado experts who help couples find their perfect place to say “I Do!” Reach out here, and let’s chat about how we can help you create your wildly romantic adventure elopement!
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Sapphire Point Elopement Photos
A Sapphire Point elopement allows for a majestic mountain setting for your promises of forever. The ceremony site is perfect for photos of your ceremony and guests, and exploring the entire loop for stunning newlywed photos gives you a well-rounded collection of photographs to treasure forever. To add even more magic to your photographs, we recommend taking advantage of the surrounding areas to create enchanting memories. Whether hiking a mountain pass, sailing on a romantic ride, or paddling on the Lake Dillon reservoir, the Sapphire Point Overlook area offers many activities and diverse landscapes for your newlywed portraits. See more Sapphire Point elopement photos below for inspiration on how to create a truly unforgettable wedding day!
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