Sapphire Point Overlook Wedding Guide
Updated January 5, 2024
Why get married at Sapphire Point Overlook?
Sapphire Point Overlook has skyrocketed in popularity since COVID. This all outdoor ceremony space was the perfect backdrop for the intimate weddings that were the norm in 2020. Since then, more and more couples have determined that the overlook is the perfect spot for an intimate celebration, regardless of COVID norms.
The main reason to choose the overlook is for the views. From the dirt packed, stone lined ceremony space you’re graced with spectacular views, highlighted by mountain peaks and the expansive water of the Dillon Reservoir.
Pair this with the affordabilty of the space in Summit County, it’s definitely worth looking in to!
And just a heads up, the park service is working on some updates to the area that should hopefully help couple’s getting married at Sapphire Point in the future!
Where is Sapphire Point?
Sapphire Point Overlook is located up Swan Mountain Rd in Dillon, CO.
What is the overall feel of Sapphire Point Overlook?
From their site:
Sapphire Point Overlook sits between Keystone and Breckenridge on Swan Mountain Road, at an elevation of 9,500 feet. The overlook offers a stunning view of Dillon Reservoir, hemmed in by the Gore and Tenmile mountain ranges. Sapphire Point is a day-use area that can be reserved for two-hour blocks for private gatherings. It is the only designated site where wedding ceremonies are permitted to take place on the Dillon Ranger District.
Overall Impressions: Sapphire Point Overlook weddings always feel intimate. There isn’t a ton of room to work with, but for groups of 20-30 it’s the perfect backdrop. And the views of Lake Dillon below are stunning.
Where do I get ready at Sapphire Point?
As the overlook is a pull off on the side of the road, there is no staging area. You’ll want to get ready at a nearby hotel or airbnb in Dillon, Silverthorn, or Breckenridge.
Pro tips for getting married at Sapphire Point
The trail is popular for visitors, even when you have reserved it for your event. I would recommend creating some signage to try to keep people from wandering by during your actual ceremony. Most people are respectful during an ongoing event, but be prepared for some people to hike by while you’re taking photos. It’s hard to stop it.
Sapphire Point Overlook itself is lovely, and there is a wooded trail near the overlook you can also explore for photos. This trail is located near the overlook.
There are also trails near the parking lot that offer slightly different, lovely views.
I would also recommend building in some time to take photos down by the shores of Dillon Lake around sunset. The late sun is beautiful on the shores and it creates variety and contrast to your photos from Sapphire Point.
I love climbing the rocks around the overlook with couples post-ceremony. If you don’t mind being a little adventurous, plan on this!
What time of year should i get married at Sapphire Point?
Honestly, Sapphire Point is beautiful year round. There are pros and cons to each season, though.
Winter: I actually really love Sapphire Point in the winter and in the snow! I think outdoor ceremonies in the winter are just magical and if there is fresh snow, the evergreens will be draped with it which is beautiful. The trail to the overlook is usually packed down due to foot traffic, but keep in mind that it could be slippery. There is also a chance for inclement weather on your wedding day and there really is no backup space here.
I also love that in winter you can walk out on Lake Dillon, so when you explore it for portraits after your ceremony, you have more options and latitude for perspectives.
Spring: You never really know what kind of weather you’ll get in the Colorado mountains in the spring. It could be warm and sunny or snowing and windy. If it’s warm it’s likely that the trails could be muddy and slippery.
Summer and Fall: You’ll have ample daylight for your ceremony and for your photos. But you also will likely have a lot of foot traffic. In the summer, consider getting married on a weekday to minimize public traffic. If you choose to go down to Lake Dillon, you’ll have a beautiful rocky shoreline to explore.
How do I book Sapphire Point for my wedding?
You can book a two hour time block via the Recreation.gov website. The reservation cost about $110.
You’ll have to choose a time block for your reservation. Time blocks are available in two hour increments between 6:00am and 8:00pm. Many couples choose afternoon so they can prioritize a reception celebration afterwards.
From a lighting perspective, I like the 4:00 and 6:00 time blocks in the summer and fall (depending on sunset time). And 2:00 is perfect for winter weddings.
Where else should we take photos?
Since the wedding spot is really popular for everyday visitors, I think it’s bets to plan to take most of your couple’s photos off the beaten path a little bit. There are several bike paths from the overlook parking lot that still provide wonderful views, but don’t have the traffic that the overlook has.
I also love taking couple’s down to the shores of Lake Dillon. I have a favorite spot that I’m happy to guide my couples to!
Other resources for planning your Sapphire Point wedding
3 Tips for Writing your Own Vows
Video from a Sapphire Point Wedding
I travel all over the state of Colorado and across the US to capture connected wedding stories for devoted and courageous couples. I’d love to be your Sapphire Point wedding photographer!
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