Dunton Hot Springs is a historic, gorgeous, ghost town that has been reinvigorated in the form of an off-the-beaten-path, rustic, boutique resort. It can be a challenge to get to due to its high mountain valley location, especially in the winter, but it is well worth it! Located approximately 81 miles Northwest of Durango via a drive through Dolores, Colorado, up Highway 145, this incredible destination is only about 12 miles from Telluride as the crow flies; however, it is still a 73 mile drive due to its remote location (which really adds to the overall charm). Dunton Hot Springs is a dream destination for elopements for this reason. The resort's stunning location on the backside of the Wilson Group makes an incredible backdrop for photos. This valley is a dream location for both Durango photographers and Telluride photographers.

Kenji and Andrea were lodging in a private cabin, as do all guests here, and we were immediately impressed by the aesthetic and the delicious lunch! We received a dusting of fresh snow during the ceremony, which was held under a vintage, open-air, A-frame roof structure. The weather was gorgeous during this winter elopement and as Durango wedding photographers we couldn't have been more excited! A little bit of fresh snow paired with cloud cover to ease the aggressiveness of the bright landscape couldn't be a better combination for winter elopement photography!

Post-ceremony we toured the grounds while taking photos, including a frozen waterfall and serene pine forest, but tended to stay on the packed trails inside the townsite due to the depth of the snow. Drinks were served at the historic bar, which has been preserved since the days of Butch Cassidy, and cake was cut, followed by a game of pool in the historic lounge. We then headed to the "library" and perused their great selection of classic literature. Those who choose Dunton as their location to elope in Colorado will not be disappointed, especially if rustic charm and comfort are high on your list.

Winters in Dunton are exceptionally peaceful and relaxing. Although these two did not rent out the entirety of the property, which you can, it really felt like they had the place to themselves. Kenji and Andrea couldn't have chosen a better place for their Colorado elopement package. As Colorado elopement photographers we were very excited to work with them at this incredible location!

For more information regarding Dunton Hot Springs and the other locations under the Dunton umbrella check out: Dunton Hot Springs

For information regarding Telluride Ski resort check out: Telluride Ski Resort