Rehearsal Dinner

Billy Goat Hop Farm, LLC

Billy Goat Hop Farm - Friends and Family Meetup

Ridgway State Park Visitors Center

Wedding Ceremony

Cobble Creek Golf Club

Wedding Reception

Day after Wedding: Ridgway Reservoir Hangout

Ouray Via Ferrata

Our Wedding

Loving the mountains and each other

Kendall's Story

In late summer of 2020, amidst the Covid-19 Pandemic, Brent and friends decided to head to the San Juan Mountains (from Michigan) to climb their first 14er (a mountain over 14,000 feet in elevation), Mount Sneffels. Brent was looking online for a mountain man and reached out to me as he was passing through Montrose. Over the coming months, we stayed connected, getting to know each other more with every message. In February 2021, Brent moved from Michigan to the Denver area. By April, he had made his way down to Montrose and we met for the first time. We went skiing at Monarch Mountain for our first date. I quickly knew that Brent was the person for me. Only a month later, I asked him to date me. For the next year and a half, we took turns traveling to see each other, as Brent lived in the Denver area. Every opportunity we had, we skied, hiked, kayaked, camped, and ate Olive Garden - Brent's favorite restaurant. We fell in love. Brent moved to Montrose a few days after Christmas in 2022. Since then, we have continued to explore the Western Slope of Colorado. Almost every weekend, and a lot of week nights, we head to the mountains to explore. Along the way, we've gone on other adventures too, from our annual road trip to the Allen family's beautiful cottage in Northern Wisconsin to flying in a helicopter over glaciers in Whistler, Canada. With every adventure, we've grown closer together. Brent is my everything.

Brent's Story

Ever since my first Colorado vacation right after graduating from WMU in 2017, I had a pretty good feeling that Colorado could be the place for me. As the years went by, I visited Colorado for ski trips and camping trips. In the summer of 2020, I really started to get the itch to move, but I needed a promotion first. In the fall of 2020, I was promoted and shortly after I told my manager I wanted to move from Michigan to Colorado. Remote work rules were a bit fuzzy, but I decided to start looking for places to rent with my college friends Austin and Dan. By January 2021, we had found a house and set out a plan to move. In February of 2021, I moved myself, and many plants, from Michigan to Colorado. The trip took 2 days, it was cold, and I had to bring plants into my hotel room. After a month of setting things up in Roxborough Park, just SW of Denver, it felt like it was time to explore a bit and that's when I decided to visit Kendall in Montrose. We had connected on my trip to climb Mount Sneffels in August of 2020 and had stayed in touch. We went skiing for our first date! I got a pair of rentals and we spent the day together at Monarch Mountain. Not only did I find a man in Colorado who was caring and beautiful, he was into skiing too! One of the big selling points of Colorado was year round activities. I felt like I was wasting my winters in Michigan (no offense Michigan you're beautiful too). In a matter of months after I moved to Colorado, we went from friends to lovers. Fast forward to Christmas 2022, after many camping trips, ski days, hikes and other adventures I moved my life up and over the Rocky Mountains and the Continental Divide to Montrose to begin our days (even closer) together. I was a bit nervous to move and leave my front range friends behind, but our life together felt more important. My love for Kendall helped me sacrifice local Denver treats like Olive Garden, Panda Express and Chick-fil-A. This is when my love for Colorado's Western slope really took off. Thankfully, I still travel back to the Denver area several times in the spring and fall for concerts, friends, and MORE SKIING. Montrose is home now, and my #1 person is always right by my side. Love you Kendall.

Our Story

On August 23, 2025, I proposed to Brent atop Red Mountain 3, South of Ouray. The short hike to the top provides 360 degree views of the San Juan Mountains, which has made it one of our favorite hikes. We once took a camp stove to the top and had leftover French toast while watching the sunset. We've hiked it at least three times, and every time it's epic. In June, I enlisted our friends, Alejandro, Malachi, and Taylor, to help with the proposal. I had to find a date that worked for all of us. It took all summer to convince Brent not to hike Red Mountain 3, but the day of the hike he didn't have any suspicions. The night before, he had gone to a concert in Telluride, by design, with the guys. I met them in Ridgway the next morning to head out. I packed my bag with a bottle of champagne and a charcuterie board for the post celebration, along with the ring. We had a small window of opportunity before the afternoon storms moved in, which are common in the mountains during the summer. Taylor and Alejandro had brought their dogs, Trooper, Scout, and Lisa. The plan was that they would ask Malachi, who's also a professional elopement and wedding photographer, to take pictures of them with their dogs, and eventually, I would ask for pictures with Brent. The plan went off without a hitch! And, Brent said "Yes!" As we headed down the mountain, the afternoon storms moved in - perfect timing. -Kendall

A big thank you to our friend, Malachi, for taking our proposal pics! He's one of the most talented photographers out there. Check out his work at www.shellcreekphoto.com or on Instagram @shellcreekphoto. Also, shout-out and thanks to Alejandro and Taylor for helping with and planning the big day!

The Proposal

Our Adventures 

Photos

Airports

The most convenient arrival option is to fly into Montrose Regional Airport. The airport is serviced by major airlines including American, United, Southwest, and Delta. It offers some direct flights, but often has layovers in major hubs including Denver, Chicago, Atlanta, and Dallas. TSA screening often takes 30 minutes or less, but it is advised to arrive at the airport at least 1 hour before your departure time. Grand Junction Regional Airport, located 1 hour 20 minutes north of Montrose, is an additional option for air travel. The airport is served by American, Delta, and United. We have traveled in/out of Grand Junction with no issues, but it is a bit of a (easy) drive through the desert.

Montrose Regional Airport

Grand Junction Regional Airport

Hotels

Montrose has a variety of lodging options. For hotels, we recommend the Holiday Inn Express or the Hampton Inn. Both of these hotels offer shuttle services to and from the Montrose Regional Airport. Most Montrose hotels do not provide shuttle services. If needed, please confirm availability with the hotel before booking your room. For a more boutique experience look into the new Rathbone Hotel located downtown or local bed and breakfast establishments. There are many Airbnb and Vrbo options too. We recommend staying in Montrose (at least the night of the wedding reception), rather than nearby communities such as Ouray or Telluride due to distance, curvy mountain roads, and wildlife at night. We are working on securing a block rate room pricing, but have not had any luck...yet. We will keep you updated on if and when, we are able to secure block rate pricing. Please let us know if you have any questions!

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Montrose - Black Canyon Area, an IHG Hotel

Hampton Inn Montrose

Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Montrose

The Rathbone Hotel & Parlor Bar

-----------------------------------------

Car Rental Services

Montrose has car rental services available at the airport. Unfortunately, we have not had any experience with them. We have listed the car rental services with the best Google reviews.&nbsp;

National Car Rental

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

Alamo Rent A Car

Travel & Lodging

Welcome to Colorado's Western Slope! In other words, you are west of the Continental Divide! Whether you will be visiting for a couple days, or making your visit an extended vacation, there are endless opportunities to explore! Montrose is surrounded by over 2 million acres of public lands! By no surprise, most activities are for the outdoor enthusiast. We have Black Canyon National Park only 25 minutes away, unlimited hiking trails, country roads and scenic byways, hot springs, quaint mountain towns, and more. We have compiled a list of a few of our favorites, but feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need additional suggestions. Also, be sure to check out the "Tips for the Mountains" tab for important information to know before heading out.

Black Canyon National Park

25 min Away

Black Canyon National Park (the South Rim) is 25 minutes east of Montrose. The park features several overlooks where visitors can look down into the 2,700 feet canyon. The sound of the Gunnison River flowing below can be heard. Sadly, this past summer 85% of the south side of the park was burned in a wildfire that was started by lightning. Despite the devastation, the park's canyons remain beautiful and there are already signs of re-growth. If you go, stop by Tomichi Point, the Visitor's Center, and Painted Wall Overlook. And, if you have time for a short hike, consider Warner Point Nature Trail which is about a 1.5 mile hike there and back. A National Park's day pass is required.

Top of the Pines

45 min Away

Bring Your Own Disc (BYOD) and take a scenic stroll through an alpine forest with views of the San Juan Mountains. No disc? That's okay! Top of the Pines gives you panoramic views of the San Juan Mountains. The road up can be a little bit like a washboard, but it's worth it! Watch out for flying discs if you go for a walk! Free entry!

Gondola to Telluride - Mountain Village

1 Hour 20 min Away

Ride the Telluride gondola which is the only free public transportation of its kind in the US. Start by parking on the top floor of the parking garage for some views of Telluride Mountain Village. Then walk across the bridge to the gondola station which will take you into the heart of Mountain Village. Explore the village for food, drink, and views or head over to the second gondola to ride to the top of the See Forever Ridge! Hop out at the high point (San Sophia Station) and go for a walk above 10,000ft. The See Forever Ridge is amazing during sunset. When you're ready to go back down, you have two choices: go back to Mountain Village or go into the Town of Telluride where you will find more amenities and great places for food like Brown Dog Pizza. Head uphill to Main Street for shopping, dining, and amazing views!

Ouray Hot Springs Pool and Fitness Center

If you are looking to relax while being surrounded by mountains, head to Ouray Hot Springs. There are multiple pools, fed by local hot springs, with varying temperatures. Ouray Hot Springs is great for kids! Price varies by age. $18-30 per person. Children under 3 free. Check website for more details.

Orvis Hot Springs

35 min Away

Looking for something a little more el naturale? Orvis Hot Springs have natural appearing stone pools and beautiful gardens. The largest pool is typically around 102-104 degrees. If you are feeling adventurous, go between the Lobster Pot (up to 114 degrees) and the cold plunge (59 degrees). Also, these springs are clothing optional! Price varies by age. $12-28 per person. Children under 3 free. Check website for details. Bring a towel, sunglasses, sunhat, sunscreen, water bottle, and your swim suit - or don't! Heads up: Leave your cell phone in your car. No photography or electronics are permitted. This is strictly enforced. Children must be at your side at all times and well-behaved.

Ridgway State Park

Get on the water at Ridgway State Park! The views of the mountains are beautiful from the water. Rentals are available at the park. There is a park entry fee (we will cover this for you the day of the wedding). Always wear a life jacket. This is an alpine reservoir and the water is very cold!

Million Dollar Highway

50 min Away

Drive the Million Dollar Highway! It was originally constructed in 1883 as a toll road for horse drawn wagons and those on horseback. By 1924, it was "modernized" for automobiles and was part of U.S. Route 550. If you don't want to go too far, but want to see amazing views, drive up to the Bear Creek Waterfall Overlook, about 3 miles south of Ouray. Be advised, going beyond the falls is not for the faint of heart! There are no guardrails, no shoulders, no places to stop, and the road has hairpin turns, and steep drop offs. It is discouraged to drive if it is raining due to the unpredictable chance of rockfalls and flash waterfalls coming off the mountain. If you have a fear of heights or are not comfortable driving in the mountains, please do not attempt this road. This is one of the most dangerous roads in America.

Hike Red Mountain 3

1 hr 15 min Away

Hike Red Mountain 3, where we got engaged! Getting there requires you to traverse the Million Dollar Highway. At the top of Red Mountain Pass, take U.S. Basin Road (825) on the left. Head the road up until you see a gate. Park at the gate and hike up the road to the top of the mountain (2.1) miles. Although a shorter hike, the starting elevation is around 11,400 and ends at 12,877. You'll want to be in shape for this one! A four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended. If you do not have an off-road capable vehicle you can still do the hike but you will have to park further down the road and will have a longer hike. Keep an eye on the weather, and if you hear thunder, turn back.

See the Wildflowers

June is spring in the mountains. The snow is still melting out from winter, the Aspen trees are lime green, and the bluish-purple lupine are blooming. The best places to see these beautiful flowers are up Ouray County Roads 5, 7, and 9. Alternatively, head to Crested Butte, the Wildflower Capital of Colorado (2 hours east of Montrose). If you need any suggestions on finding wildflowers, let us know!

Things to Do

Helpful Tips

The mountains are full of adventure, but also risks. Be prepared. Here are some tips for a safe trip! Make a plan and tell people where you are going and when you plan to return. Preferably, don't go alone. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Due to elevation, your body will lose water much more quickly than at sea level. You are breathing harder and deeper because the air has less oxygen. Take plenty of water with you everywhere (at least 32 fluid oz). Make sure you have all the essentials for your activity (water, food, various layers of clothing, a light, bear spray, bug spray, etc.). Know the signs of elevation sickness. If you are in the mountains (above 8,000 feet) and begin to feel sick, return to Montrose (lower elevation) and drink plenty of water or coconut water. Seek medical assistance, if necessary. Be prepared for all seasons of weather. Colorado weather can change by the minute and can differ from one side of the mountain to the other. Snow can fall during any month of the year and the rain can be just as cold. If you are heading out, be prepared with a rain jacket, winter hat, gloves, and a coat. If you hear thunder in the mountains while at high elevation, turn back. That may mean ending your hike before reaching your destination, but Colorado is #1 for folks getting struck by lightning! Don't risk it. Montrose weather will likely be in the low 80s during the day and 50s at night. Montrose has nearly 300 days of sunshine. Mountain weather will be slightly cooler. Bring a sunhat, ChapStick, and sunscreen. Alpine lakes are very cold in June. Afterall, they are fed by melting snow. If you plan to recreate on the water, it's strongly advised to wear a life jacket. We strongly advise against jumping in alpine lakes in June because of the risk of hypothermia. Do not rely on your cell phone for reliable communication. Cell coverage in the mountains is spotty at most. Leave No Trace: A friendly reminder, please leave the mountains, forests, and deserts better than you visited them. Many areas require you to pack out your trash. We don't expect anyone will have campfires, but if you do, please remember, "Only You Can Prevent Wildfires!" Many of our forests are an ember away from igniting.

Encountering Wildlife

Always be mindful when out in the mountains, that you are a visitor and that the forests are home to wildlife. Colorado has black bears (no brown or grizzlies), moose, mountain lions, elk, and cute marmots - among other creatures. Always keep a safe distance from wildlife. In the event you are a little closer than you should be, know how to respond. Black bears are usually more scared of you, than you are of them. They are often just curious. However, they can be unpredictable. Momma bears with cubs, bears coming out of hibernation, or bears that are startled can be aggressive. If a bear is a few hundred feet away, talk to it loudly. Make eye contact. If it leaves, great job! We would recommend you end your hike early. If a bear comes toward you, make yourself appear bigger than you are. Do not turn your back on a bear. It can run 35 miles per hour. If the bear does not relent, scream, holler, and throw sticks and stones at it (they won't break its bones, but will hopefully scare it). Use bear spray, if needed. In the highly unlikely event it charges you, fight! Do not feed the bears! In Colorado, we say a fed bear is a dead bear. When bears become too familiar with humans through being fed or having easy access to human food, they can become aggressive and eventually have to be euthanized. Mountain lions. You don't want to see a mountain lion (at least up close). They will attack and attempt to kill you. However, if you do, never turn your back. Don't crouch down. Always make eye contact. And, yell like crazy. Bullwinkle may have been a nice moose, but most are not. In fact, moose are more dangerous and deadly than bears in Colorado. It's best to see moose from afar. They are just as fast as bears and powerful. If a moose looks like it will charge you, ears laid back, hair standing up, stomping its feet, and has a lowered head, you might be in trouble. Do everything possible to create a barrier between you and the moose. If you have any questions about how to be prepared for encountering wildlife, please let us know. Jeez, Colorado is dangerous!