When Bryce and Jen decided to elope, they knew they wanted something unique, adventurous, and deeply connected to nature. As experienced ultra marathon runners and outdoor lovers, a traditional wedding just didn’t fit their spirit. As experienced Colorado Elopement Photographers, we were able to help them craft an unforgettable experience for their special day. When I originally suggested an elopement at Ice Lakes in Silverton - an almost 7.5 mile round trip hike with over 2500ft elevation gain - at sunrise, their initial reaction was disbelief—but soon, they realized it was the perfect adventure for them.

from the couple:

“There are so many decisions to make for your special day, to make it meaningful and memorable. Choosing Caleb Clayton for our film and photos was hands down the best part of our experience. We chose to elope to have a private ceremony, so we could be present as possible in the moment. Caleb and his wife Amy are a power team that made this day way better than we envisioned, by having meetings to help tailor the day to who we are as a couple. They helped us with choosing the perfect destination and even assisted with planning the flow of the day.
You know you picked the right crew when they are all in for waking up at 3am to hike 8 miles round trip, to get the most stunning sunrise shots at an alpine lake. While also being there for capturing intimate sunset moments. Their calm personalities are filled with pure enthusiasm for their craft, which brought ease to our nerve filled day, and at moments we forgot we had others around us. What I love the most about our photos are they captured us in the most natural ways possible and when I look back on them, it encapsulates who we are as a couple but also brings me back to the emotions of the moment. It was also a great experience having them capture our day on film, and getting to see the final product had us in tears all over again. Caleb Created the most surreal moment of our life with his fantastic videography, music selection, and editing skills. He was even able to complete our video in a months time, so we could premiere it for our friends and family at our wedding reception. We had nonstop compliments on how great the video was and how talented Caleb was.

I would 1000% recommend any couple to choose Caleb Clayton Film and Photo for their next wedding/elopement, you will not be disappointed.”

J + B

The Journey to Ice Lakes: A True Adventure Elopement

The morning of their elopement in Silverton, Colorado started early—really early. At 2 AM, we met at their cozy cabin in downtown Silverton to begin the day. They packed up their wedding attire and some snacks and we drove in the dark to the trail head. The hike to Ice Lakes is no small feat, spanning 3.5 miles with over 2,500 feet of elevation gain. But Bryce and Jen were all in, carrying their wedding attire up the steep terrain, crossing streams, and trekking through patches of lingering snow to get to their elopement destination.

Reaching the stunning turquoise waters of Ice Lakes just as the sun began to rise was nothing short of magical. Jen changed into her dress behind a boulder, and Bryce got into his suit nearby the lake. As the first golden light touched the peaks, they shared a heartfelt first look overlooking the lake from a nearby hill. Then, standing at the lake’s edge, they exchanged handwritten vows in a private and breathtaking setting, marking the start of their married life with only the mountains and alpine lakes as their witnesses.

Watch their Ice Lakes Elopement Film.

Sunset Celebration with Their Dogs in Silverton

After the exhilarating morning hike and a well-deserved midday break, Bryce and Jen weren’t done celebrating. As the sun dipped lower in the sky, we ventured to Molas Pass in Silverton for a relaxed and intimate evening. They picked up some local pizza and included their beloved boxers in this part of their special day.

With the sun setting over Mt. Eolus and tired legs from the morning hike, Bryce and Jen shared a first dance, read letters from loved ones, and soaked in the beauty of the moment.The day had been filled with stunning adventures and mixed with tender, quiet moments. From a morning sunrise high in the mountains by an alpine lake, to a gentle sunset glow on the peaks over the pine forests at sunset, Bryce and Jen’s day perfectly encapsulated their love and connection to each other.

Ready to Plan Your Own Silverton, Colorado Elopement?

Eloping in the San Juan Mountains requires more than just a love for adventure—it takes careful planning and local expertise. As an Colorado elopement photographer who has shot many times in Silverton, I help couples craft a seamless experience, from choosing the perfect locations to navigating the logistics of high-altitude ceremonies. Whether you're dreaming of an Ice Lakes elopement or another breathtaking spot in the mountains of Colorado, I’m here to document your journey every step of the way and create lasting memories for you can always look back on.