Whether you are a cowgirl, urbanite, history buff, nature-lover or thrill-seeker, free-spirited brides are naturally drawn to the Highest State. Boasting a mild climate, 300 days of sunshine a year and the majestic Rocky Mountains, Colorado is a wonder to behold in any season. Denver, the capital city, is the primary hub with the Denver International Airport providing nonstop daily service to more than 130 destinations; the state's most popular national parks and ski resorts are only an hour or two away by car.
Wedding Requirements Tying the knot here is a breeze. Provided both parties are over 18, there's no waiting period, and no blood tests are required. To obtain a license, both of you must appear in person at the county clerk and recorder's office. Fee is $10 cash. Wed before a fireplace at a mountain chateau, on the sprawling grounds of a country estate, or in a swank Denver ballroom. For a fun touch, honor the state's mining history by putting a little fool's gold in your welcome baskets.
What to Do
Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park Dating to 1915, Colorado's preeminent national park draws 3 million visitors a year thanks to its breathtaking wilderness scenery. The easiest way to see it all is via the 48-mile Trail Ridge Road -- the highest continuous highway in the nation. Spend a half-day stopping at the road's many pullovers for plentiful photo ops of mountain peaks, rushing rivers and diverse wildlife, including bighorn sheep, moose, elk, marmots and golden eagles. Or hoof it on the 355 miles of trails that wind past mountain meadows, evergreen forests and serene lakes. Dozens of outfitters are eager to take you on guided horseback rides or adrenaline-pumping rafting trips along the Colorado and Poudre rivers. For some après-adventure R&R, stop into the nearby village of Estes Park, where you'll find specialty shops as well as mom-'n'-pop restaurants serving up hearty comfort food and local brews.
Skiing Colorado is the leading ski region in the United States, and it's no surprise -- the state's 26 ski resorts appeal to all experience levels, budgets and styles. Upscale Vail holds the distinction of being North America's largest ski resort while Aspen is the winter playground of the rich and famous. Telluride and Breckenridge tempt with wild-west flavor, historic attractions and colorful nightlife. For lower prices and fewer crowds, try lesser-known ski areas like Arapahoe Basin and Sunlight Mountain. Regardless of the destination you choose, you'll find powdery slopes and a full roster of activities promising wintry fun, from horse-drawn sleigh rides and snowmobile tours to snowshoeing and ice-skating.
Off the Beaten Path
Gold-mining Few industries have influenced Colorado's development like mining did in the 19th century. Gold was first discovered in the state in 1858; the ensuing gold rush gave birth to numerous boomtowns, where the era's history is still alive and well. Experience it at landmarks like the National Mining Hall of Fame & Museum in Leadville or the Bachelor-Syracuse Mine in Ouray, where you can ride a mining train and try your hand at gold panning. — Erika Hueneke
