Dunton Hot Springs Fall Anniversary Session

Feliz + Johnathan built their relationship on traveling the world together and experiencing new things. They decided on a trip to Dunton Hot Springs– a remote, luxury getaway high in the San Juan Mountains outside of Telluride, CO- to celebrate their 5 year wedding anniversary and see this beautiful corner of the state. They brought their two Burmese mountain dogs, Peanut Butter and Jelly, along with them and we explored the serene grounds of the hot springs for a commemorative photo shoot.

It was mid-October, so the yellow leaves were still barely hanging onto the aspen trees and the autumn air was getting crisp since we were way up at almost 9,000 feet of elevation. Dunton Hot Springs is a restored 19th-century ghost town that uniquely balances historic authenticity and upscale luxury. The grounds themselves feel exclusive, calm, and rejuvenating, like an oasis that allows you to breathe more easily. It is one of my favorite places to photograph for that reason, and a perfect spot to celebrate a milestone like a wedding anniversary for F+J.

I caught them at the end of their horseback trail ride through the mountains, and we got a couple pictures with their horses since that is one of their favorite activities to do together. We then explored all the iconic spots around the hot springs… the waterfall, their adorable rustic cabin, the trail up to the yellow aspens, the hot spring bathhouse, and the library. Peanut Butter and Jelly tagged along for all of it, which made for the cutest pictures of genuine joy between their little family.

Photoshoot at Dunton Hot Springs

Dunton Hot Springs Photographer

If you’re planning a trip to Dunton to celebrate something special, I would love to help you plan and execute a photoshoot! It really is one of the best places to have photos done because of the variety of scenery, unique features, and beautiful soft light in the valley. I grew up in Dolores, CO which is one of the nearest towns to Dunton, so I know the area super well and have a ton of experience shooting around the grounds of the hot springs. I’m one of their recommended vendors, so reach out and we can start chatting about getting you those dreamy photos for your wedding, elopement, proposal, or couples session!