LGBTQ+ Summer Wedding at Thunderhead Lodge in Steamboat Springs, Colorado

High above the Yampa Valley, surrounded by wildflowers, alpine air, and golden summer light, Mariana and Kenzie celebrated their love with an unforgettable LGBTQ+ summer wedding at Thunderhead Lodge in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.

This day was joyful, emotional, loud, full of movement, and unapologetically them — the kind of wedding that feels less like an event and more like a shared experience with everyone lucky enough to be there.

The day started with getting ready at the beautiful Steamboat Grand Hotel . There was excitement buzzing through the rooms, dresses being zipped, laughter echoing down hallways, and a very important mission underway: getting Mariana to the gondola without being spotted by guests.

With a little coordination and a lot of laughs, we pulled off some fun covert shenanigans and made it happen. Once at the top, Mariana shared a heartfelt first look with her father, followed by a deeply emotional first look with Kenzie, where they exchanged gifts and soaked in a quiet moment together before the celebration unfolded.

Family, Culture, and a Whole Lot of Love

Mariana’s family is large, close-knit, and from Argentina — and they absolutely know how to party. From the moment everyone arrived at Thunderhead Lodge, the energy shifted into full celebration mode. There was warmth, affection, and a contagious joy that carried through the entire evening.

As the sun dipped low and painted the mountains in soft gold and pink tones, we stepped away for sunset portraits that felt calm and romantic before diving straight back into the party.

Toasts, Dances, and an All-Out Dance Party

The evening was filled with incredibly personal and fun toasts from parents and siblings — the kind that make you laugh one minute and tear up the next. There were emotional dances with their fathers, followed by a complete shift in gears as the dance floor turned into a full-on, no-holding-back party.

It was loud. It was wild. It was pure joy. Exactly how a wedding should feel.

Why Thunderhead Lodge Is Perfect for an LGBTQ+ Wedding

Thunderhead Lodge offers one of the most iconic wedding venues in Steamboat Springs. Accessible by gondola, perched high above town, and surrounded by sweeping mountain views, it feels private, adventurous, and incredibly special. For LGBTQ+ couples looking for a venue that feels welcoming, elevated, and unforgettable, Thunderhead Lodge delivers in every way.

Top 10 Fun Things to Do in Steamboat Springs in the Summer

1. Float the Yampa River through downtown Steamboat
2. Visit all the hot springs in the area (Strawberry Park, Old Town, and more)
3. Ride the Steamboat Gondola for scenic mountain views
4. Hike Fish Creek Falls and the surrounding trails
5. Explore Mount Werner hiking and biking trails
6. Soak up live music and events in downtown Steamboat
7. Go mountain biking at Steamboat Bike Park
8. Take a scenic drive through Routt National Forest
9. Enjoy local breweries and patios around town
10. Watch the sunset from elevated viewpoints around the ski area

Top 10 Places to Stay in Steamboat Springs

Luxury & Resort Options

• Steamboat Grand Hotel – Full-service luxury hotel with mountain views and easy gondola access.
• Sheraton Steamboat Resort – Upscale ski-in/ski-out resort with pools and spa amenities.
• One Steamboat Place – High-end condos with premium services and unbeatable location.

Mid-Range & Boutique

• Holiday Inn Steamboat Springs – Comfortable, reliable option close to downtown.
• The Ptarmigan Inn – Ski-area classic with walkable access to lifts and trails.
• Steamboat Lodge – Condo-style lodging great for families and groups.

Budget-Friendly Options

• Legacy Vacation Resorts Steamboat Springs – Affordable and centrally located.
• Super 8 Steamboat Springs – Budget-friendly and practical for short stays.

Vacation Rentals

• Airbnb in Steamboat Springs – Wide range of options from cozy condos to luxury mountain homes.
• Vrbo in Steamboat Springs – Ideal for larger groups and longer stays.

Planning a Summer Wedding in Steamboat Springs

Steamboat Springs is an incredible destination for couples who want mountains without the crowds, adventure without sacrificing comfort, and a town that knows how to celebrate. Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a full wedding weekend, summer in Steamboat delivers stunning scenery and unforgettable experiences.