Silverton, Colorado

Saying “I do” in Silverton, Colo. can be sweet and simple as a gazebo on a summer evening, elegant as French silk and chilled champagne, wildly romantic as an alpine meadow full of columbines and mountain bluebells. This little village, cradled by the some of the most beautiful mountains in the world, seems to have been made for brides and grooms. 

And although Silverton may seem like a high, lost Shangri-la, the town has all the amenities to accommodate your nuptial needs, from the dance hall right down to the handmade thank you notes. All you need bring is your own true love. The Town of Silverton offers three facilities for wedding parties. A pretty, old-fashioned gazebo, painted white with purple accents, nestles into a far corner of Memorial Park, as Cement Creek winds and chatters its way beneath a wooden footbridge nearby. The authentically restored Town Hall on Greene Street offers a spacious, assembly room upstairs with a high-ceiling, hardwood floors (think dancing!), a grand piano, and an aura of timeless grace that lends itself well to elegant receptions. The grand staircase winds its way down into a gorgeous atrium, the perfect setting for wedding portraits. 

Across the Animas River at the foot of Kendall Mountain, the newly built Kendall Mountain Community Center has the feel of a secluded alpine lodge. The “Sultan Room,” ideal for a large reception, has lofty ceilings, a wall of windows showcasing Grand Turk and Sultan mountains, and a hardwood floor that begs to be danced upon. Astonishing views in all directions, generously proportioned wrap-around decks, a stonework fireplace, full kitchen, and a very private setting, all contribute toward KMCC having become a much sought-after location for special events.

It is hard to imagine a finer place than Silverton to get married alfresco. Every lake, stream and mountain meadow seems to beckon as a wedding site. (San Juan County Judge Todd Risberg is frequently called upon to officiate at nonecumenical Silverton weddings, and can be reached through the office of the Clerk of the Court at (970-387-5790.)

If your love for each other is like a steam locomotive—hot, steamy, dramatic and dauntless —consider getting married on the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad! The D&SNGRR fleet of trains pulled by vintage steam locomotives snake their way through the Animas River Valley to Silverton from May through October. Decadently inclined couples may like to charter a private car for the whole day, ranging from Caboose #0500, built in 1886, which accommodates eight passengers for $900, to the 1878-era Nomad, an authentic Victorian pullman car with a built-in bedroom, for $5,000. Whole, private trains are also available for charter. Private car charters: (970) 259-3772.

Several local B&B’s and restaurants have special offerings for wedding parties. The Wyman, with its charming courtyard, garden arbor, “Candlelight Caboose,” and wedding “elopement” packages, offers everything from pre-nuptial parties to the reception and 
honeymoon.  The Alma House (Inn of the Rockies) on Blair Street offers a complete catering menu as does Miss Lilly’s teahouse on Greene Street. Natalia’s Restaurant provides complete catering and a lovely outdoor patio setting.

Silverton is home to several appealing old churches that seem straight out of a picture book.  And, there is even a stagecoach and carriage service to carry the bridal party to the church! 

For a complete Silverton wedding planning kit, contact Event and Recreation Director Stephanie Reigh  at (970) 387-5522.

Photo Captions:

1. Amos and Marcy Jaramillo. William Alsup.

2. Wedding reception at Kendall Mountain Recreation Center. Thru the Lens Fine Portraits, Durango, Colo.