Adventure Elopement in Silverton, Colorado | Sunrise at Ice Lake Basin
Alpine Elopement | Ice Lakes, Silverton, Colorado
The alarm started buzzing - it’s 2:30am. Time to get the headlamps fired up and our hiking boots laced. We had big plans to hike 8 miles round trip, climb 3,000ft of elevation gain, and top out at a stunning alpine lake nestled into the mountains at 12,500ft.
We began hiking, guided by the big starry mountain sky. Nicole and Kevin, hand-in-hand. Dimly lit vision of the wildflowers hugging the side of the trail. Nicole’s hand flowing through the columbines. Discovering a new patch every mile of trail.
We made it to the summit, big mountain views - just as the sun began to peak over the mountains. Ice Lake Basin in the San Juan mountains is the epitome of Colorado wilderness, and it shone big for Nicole and Kevin’s elopement.
In planning for this day, Nicole and Kevin knew they wanted full. on. adventure. Before they could tell us a date or any more details, we said yes! They were speaking our language! They planned to share their vows at the summit of one of their favorite alpine hikes to Ice Lakes basin.
We started the hike slowly, bundled up in our warm puffies, crossing creeks, scrambling up the rocky trail in the dark morning sky, Nicole and Kevin being fully present and with each other on their wedding day.
They both took some time to themselves before their first look. A moment to freshen up, to get dressed, and to take in all of the excitement. Kevin ready, facing the alpenglow on the peaks towering above Ice Lake, turned away from Nicole. Nicole slowly walked toward Kevin, tapped his shoulder, he turned around, and we all lost it (yes - I cried too!)
Nicole and Kevin shared their vows as the sun rays began to shine down on them, a soft morning glow. It made for the most incredible view as they made their forever promises to each other.
As happy as two clams, they cracked open their favorite beer from Odell Brewing. Celebrating with some bubbly!
We couldn’t help but feel so lucky to be a part of their love story. Being present at such an intimate moment in someone’s life is an absolute honor. To capture the emotion of the moment, the couples personality and silliness, and to witness two people's love for one another as the promises to be each other's support, shelter, and love… it's powerful stuff! We leave the day feeling inspired and more in love every damn time.
