Amy and Ben | Yankee Boy Basin 4×4 Elopement
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Savannah Chandler Photography | Ouray Elopement Photographer
Amy & Ben’s Intimate Yankee Boy Basin Elopement in Ouray, Colorado
As a Colorado elopement photographer, I’m constantly blown away by the beauty of the San Juan Mountains. There truly is no other place like these volcanic peaks across Colorado. When Amy and Ben reached out about their dream to elope in the heart of the Rockies—just the two of them—they knew the rugged, alpine landscapes of Ouray would be the perfect backdrop. Their Yankee Boy Basin elopement was intimate, adventurous, and filled with a little bit of Colorado mountain magic.
Driving Into the San Juans | 4×4 and Rugged Roads
Amy and Ben rented a Jeep from Ouray Mountain Adventures, allowing us to seek solitude and sweeping mountain views high up in the alpine. Nestled above the charming mountain town of Ouray, Yankee Boy Basin is one of the most stunning and accessible places for couples who want a private and adventurous ceremony. Accessible by an easy 4×4 road, the journey up is just as breathtaking as the destination itself.
During the month of June, wildflowers were just beginning to bloom, dotting the alpine meadows with pops of color. Snow still lingered on the peaks, creating that perfect early-summer contrast that makes the San Juans so magical.
Portraits at Twin Falls
We made our way up the rocky road to the Twin Falls area, one of the most iconic spots in Yankee Boy Basin. Amy and Ben were glowing with excitement, ready to say “I do” surrounded by waterfalls, cliffs, and towering peaks. We began their portraits there, capturing the two of them hand in hand in the crisp mountain air.
Just as we settled into portraits, Colorado’s unpredictable weather decided to make an appearance, a hailstorm rolled in. We dashed back to the cars to wait it out, the sound of hail pounding on the metal roof reminding us that adventure always comes with surprises.
Vows in the Sunshine
As quickly as it arrived, the spring mountain storm passed. As the clouds parted, sunlight streamed across the basin, and Amy and Ben stood together to share their vows. It was private, emotional, and beautifully simple – just the way they wanted it.
I always keep small moments that happen during weddings and elopements with me. From the past 15 years photographing, I have some pretty special moments tucked away in my memory. Just as Ben and Amy went finished up their vows and were declaring themselves married, the sun shined right on them as a gust of wind blew through and I vividly remember watching Amy’s gown billow in the breeze. The mountain always brings blessings, and from what I’m told it may have been some family members from above making a brief visit on their wedding day.
Planning Your Own Ouray Elopement
If you’re dreaming of an adventurous yet intimate wedding day, a Yankee Boy Basin elopement might be exactly what you’re looking for. With its waterfalls, alpine lakes, and dramatic peaks, the San Juan Mountains create an unforgettable setting. Whether you’re hiking in, taking a 4×4 road, or finding a secluded spot to say your vows, Ouray is one of the best places in Colorado for couples who want a wedding day that’s both stunning and meaningful. One of the greatest things about the Ouray area is the incredible access to some of the most beautiful areas in Colorado – there are multiple 4×4 roads that jet off from Yankee Boy and provide even more privacy and alternate views.
As a Colorado elopement photographer, I help couples craft a day that’s true to you – whether that’s standing at the base of a waterfall, hiking to a summit, or waiting out a storm before exchanging vows in the sunshine.