Dunton Hot Springs — A Timeless Mountain Escape for Intimate Weddings and Elopements

Dunton hot springs is an experience, not Just a Venue.

There are places that serve as backdrops for a wedding — and then there are places that become an essential part of the story. After 14 years photographing weddings, I can say Dunton Hot Springs elevates intimate weddings and elopements into unforgettable experiences. It is also open year round!

Historic Roots:

This wedding venue sits on the banks of the West Dolores River and began as an early-day mining camp. The restored timber buildings preserve authentic character and cinematic charm. It’s no surprise Dunton has been featured in Vogue, Condé Nast Traveler, and The Wall Street Journal.

Why Dunton Hot Springs Is Ideal for Intimate Weddings and Elopements

Private cottages, cozy common rooms with wood-burning fireplaces, and secluded outdoor spaces make Dunton perfect for small ceremonies, elopements, and micro-weddings that prioritize presence and atmosphere over scale.

A Photographer’s Perspective – Light & Emotion

As a wedding photographer, I’m always watching for the perfect light and landscape. At Dunton Hot Springs the river, weathered wood, steam rising from hot springs, and fresh snowfall create a rich visual palette that flatters both portrait and emotive photography.

Culinary Excellence at Dunton – Michelin-Level Dining

The dining at Dunton Hot Springs is of Michelin-star caliber. Thoughtful, refined cuisine served in rustic elegance turns meals into memorable communal experiences that enhance any wedding weekend. They also have an extensive wine list!

Outdoor Adventures- Hot Springs, Hiking, and Winter Magic

Dunton offers three natural hot springs, hiking trails, guided snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and winter sleigh rides—each activity adding adventure and intimacy to a couple’s celebration.

Wellness and Balance — Yoga and Quiet Renewal

Daily yoga classes and restorative options at Dunton help couples have private moments before vows, making the experience both restorative and celebratory.

A Personal Stay — Firsthand Magic at Dunton Hot Springs

I recently stayed at Dunton Hot Springs to experience it personally. While I have photographed the venue before, staying there was an entirely spectacular vacation in another world. The staff was exceptional—attentive, warm, and discreet. My room had a wood-burning fireplace, and I snowshoed back to a frozen waterfall—small, cinematic moments that proved how magical Dunton truly is.

Riverside Setting — Ceremony Sites on the Dolores River

Located right near the Dolores River, Dunton Hot Springs offers a serene outdoor ceremony site and reflective light for portraits. The river’s soundtrack elevates vows and imagery alike.

Staff & Service — Seamless, Thoughtful Hospitality

The Dunton team anticipates needs without intrusion; their care turns logistics into seamless service so couples can remain present throughout their celebration.

Planning Tips for Couples Considering Dunton Hot Springs

• Keep the guest list small to preserve Dunton’s intimate feel.
• Schedule adventurous portrait time (first look, stroll to the waterfall, sleigh ride).
• Highlight the culinary experience in your timeline.
• Book experiences (yoga, sleigh rides, guided snowshoeing, spa treatments) early—seasonal activities fill quickly.

Featured In — Dunton’s Proven Reputation

Dunton Hot Springs’ coverage in Vogue, Condé Nast Traveler, Town & Country, and The Wall Street Journal confirms its standing as a destination that combines history, hospitality, and visual drama.

An Idyllic Choice for Unforgettable Intimacy

If you want a wedding that’s historic and cinematic, adventurous and restorative, intimate and luxuriously curated, Dunton Hot Springs is an idyllic choice. It becomes part of your story. As someone who’s photographed hundreds of love stories, I can’t recommend Dunton highly enough.

Connect with me!

If you’re planning an intimate wedding or elopement at Dunton Hot Springs and would like help documenting your day, I’d love to talk about crafting your story into radiant images.

Your Telluride Wedding Photographer

The best way to connect with me is through my website : Lisa Marie Wright Photography

Finally, please feel free to reach out to me HERE. In the meantime, I’d love to connect with you on my Instagram and Facebook. Cheers to lots of excitement ahead!