Emma & Jordan’s Ice Lake Basin Elopement in Silverton, Colorado

When Emma & Jordan first reached out to me about their elopement, they shared that they love to hike long distances, climb mountains, and spend their time outdoors together. As experienced thru-hikers and full time van-lifers, they wanted their wedding day to reflect that same spirit of adventure. Their vision was clear from the start: elope in Colorado on the date of their 9-year dating anniversary, hike somewhere truly special, say their vows by an alpine lake, and celebrate with a cold plunge in the icy mountain water. Ice Lake Basin in Silverton, Colorado with its turquoise alpine lakes and dramatic San Juan peaks was the perfect place for them to bring their vision to life.

Hiking into Ice Lakes Basin

Our day began well before sunrise. With headlamps lighting the trail, we started hiking at 3am, following the winding switchbacks as we headed up into the basin. The crisp mountain air and starlit sky made the early start extra magical. As we reached Ice Lake, Emma changed into her wedding dress while her makeup came together with the quiet stillness of the morning. Jordan got ready just steps away, and soon, they were prepared for the moment they had been dreaming of.

Sunrise Vows by Ice Lake

As the sun rose, casting a pink glow over the San Juan mountains, Emma & Jordan shared their vows on the shoreline of Ice Lake. The turquoise waters sparkled in the morning light, and the rugged peaks stood tall around them, like witnesses to their promise. It was intimate, raw, and so authentically them — two people with a call to adventure, turning their love of the trail into the foundation of their marriage.

A Celebration True to Them

After the ceremony, we hiked over to Island Lake, our second destinatoin for the day. Emma & Jordan ran barefoot on the tail, laughed, cuddled, and embraced the joy of the moment. It wasn’t about perfect poses — it was about creating memories that truly felt like them. They shared a charcuterie board together, popped a bottle of non-alcoholic champagne, and finally, jumped into the icy alpine water for a romantic cold plunge. Emma & Jordan’s Ice Lake Basin elopement was the perfect reflection of their relationship — full of adventure, laughter, and authenticity. From the 3am headlamp hike, to exchanging vows at sunrise, to romping around Island Lake, and finally their cold plunge, every detail reflected who they are. It was a day they will never forget, and an honor to capture in the heart of the San Juan Mountains.

Why Silverton is Perfect for an Adventure Elopement

Silverton, Colorado is one of the most stunning destinations for an adventure elopement. Between the rugged hikes, turquoise alpine lakes, and quiet mountain basins, it offers endless opportunities for couples who want to celebrate their love in nature. As a Silverton elopement photographer, I love documenting couples who choose places that are meaningful to them, just like Emma & Jordan did with Ice Lake Basin.