This is your comprehensive guide for how to get married at Gateway Canyons Resort – a hidden gem and luxury desert oasis settled along the Utah and Colorado border. Learn everything you need to know and consider before getting married at this red rock resort:
What is Gateway Canyons Resort?
Gateway Canyons Resort is a luxurious retreat nestled in the stunning red rock canyons of western Colorado, USA. The Resort was founded by John Hendricks, also the founder of the Discovery Channel. He was captivated by the beauty of the Unaweep Canyon and Dolores River Valley and envisioned creating a resort that would celebrate the natural wonders of the region. The resort opened its doors in 2005 and has since become a premier destination for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those seeking relaxation amidst breathtaking scenery.
Gateway Canyons Resort is located in Gateway, Colorado, which is about a 60-minute drive southwest of Grand Junction. The region is known for its dramatic red rock formations, deep canyons, and wide-open spaces. It’s situated near the border of Colorado and Utah, making it a gateway to exploring the natural wonders of both states.
The resort offers several beautiful venues for weddings and events. The exact capacity varies depending on the specific venue chosen and the setup, but they can accommodate both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations. The resort exudes a sense of adventure, luxury, and tranquility. Surrounded by towering red rock cliffs and the soothing sound of the Dolores River, guests can immerse themselves in nature while enjoying upscale amenities and accommodations. The architecture and design of the resort blend seamlessly with the rugged landscape, featuring earthy tones, natural materials, and rustic elegance.
How to get to Gateway
If you plan on flying to Gateway Canyons Resort, the closest major airport to Gateway Canyons Resort is Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT), located in Grand Junction, Colorado. From there, you can either rent a car and drive to the resort or arrange for a shuttle service. The main international airports nearby are Denver International Airport (DIA) or Salt Lake International Airport (SLC), both of which are a 4-5 hour drive to Gateway, but may offer a short flight over to GJT as well.
You may also take the Amtrak Train into Grand Junction, and drive yourself to the resort from there. There are rental car companies nearby both the train station and the airport.
Driving to Gateway Canyons Resort offers the flexibility to enjoy scenic routes and make stops along the way to explore the beautiful landscapes of western Colorado.
- From Grand Junction, Colorado:
- Take US-50 W and CO-141 S to Gateway Canyons Resort.
- The drive takes approximately 1 hour, depending on traffic and road conditions, and not including any stops you make.
- The route offers stunning views of red rock formations, canyons, and the picturesque landscape of western Colorado.
- From Denver, Colorado:
- Take I-70 W and US-50 W to CO-141 S in Grand Junction.
- Continue on CO-141 S to Gateway Canyons Resort.
- The drive takes approximately 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
- This route offers diverse scenery, including the rocky mountains, rolling plains, and lush canyons.
If you plan to drive to Gateway Canyons, be sure to top off your gas before leaving Grand Junction, as there are no services between the towns. If you’re not planning to stay and dine at the resort, be sure to stock up on food and beverages before your journey as well.
Weather at Gateway – When to Get Married at the Resort
Gateway Canyons Resort, located in western Colorado, experiences a semi-arid climate characterized by hot summers, mild winters, and relatively low precipitation throughout the year. Here’s a general overview of the monthly high and low temperatures:
January:
High: Around 44°F (3°C) / Low: Around 20°F (-9°C)
February:
High: Around 51°F (7°C) / Low: Around 26°F (-7°C)
March:
High: Around 61°F (13°C) / Low: Around 33°F (-3°C)
April:
High: Around 70°F (18°C) / Low: Around 39°F (1°C)
May:
High: Around 79°F (24°C) / Low: Around 47°F (6°C)
June:
High: Around 90°F (29°C) / Low: Around 56°F (11°C)
July:
High: Around 94°F (32°C) / Low: Around 63°F (15°C)
August:
High: Around 91°F (31°C) / Low: Around 61°F (14°C)
September:
High: Around 84°F (27°C) / Low: Around 52°F (9°C)
October:
High: Around 70°F (20°C) / Low: Around 40°F (3°C)
November:
High: Around 57°F (11°C) / Low: Around 30°F (-4°C)
December:
High: Around 45°F (5°C) / Low: Around 22°F (-8°C)
The best months to get married at Gateway Canyons Resort are March, April, May, October, and November. These months are cooler than the brutal summer heat and avoid the bulk of the tourists who visit in summer. It’s nice enough outside to enjoy the recreation in the area too. If you hope to enjoy the Dolores River more, aim for May or September as it’s a bit warmer.
What to Ask When Booking a Wedding Venue like Gateway Canyons Resort
When you’re preparing to talk to a wedding venue like Gateway Canyons it’s good to be prepared with what questions to ask to learn as much about the venue and its offer as possible. Here is a complete list of questions to ask your venue:
- What is included?
- Can we host a rehearsal? When?
- Is a coordinator included? Are they required? Can we bring our own?
- Is catering included? Is that catering required? Do you have a catering minimum we should know about?
- Can you book any vendors you want to?
- Availability and Capacity:
- Is the venue available on our preferred wedding date?
- How many guests can the venue accommodate comfortably?
- Are there any restrictions on the day of the week or time of day for events?
- Pricing and Payment:
- What is the cost of renting the venue, and what does it include?
- Are there any additional fees, such as service charges or taxes?
- What is the deposit and payment schedule?
- Is there a refund or cancellation policy?
- Catering and Food:
- Do you have an in-house catering service, or can we bring in our own caterer?
- Are food and beverage packages available, and what do they include?
- Do you accommodate dietary restrictions or special meal requests?
- Alcohol and Beverages:
- Can we bring our own alcohol, or do you have an on-site bar service?
- What are the bar options and pricing?
- Do you have a liquor license, and are there any restrictions?
- Vendor Restrictions:
- Are there any restrictions on the choice of vendors (photographers, florists, DJs, etc.)?
- Do you have a list of preferred vendors, and are we required to use them?
- Decor and Setup:
- What is the policy regarding decorating the venue?
- Are there restrictions on open flames (candles) or other decor elements?
- Is there a designated area for the bridal party to get ready?
- Event Timing:
- How many hours are included in the rental, and what is the overtime policy?
- What time can we access the venue for setup, and when must the event conclude?
- Is there a noise curfew or restrictions on music volume?
- Parking and Transportation:
- Is there ample parking available for guests?
- Are there transportation options for guests who may need them?
- Accessibility and Accommodations:
- Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
- Are there accommodations nearby for out-of-town guests?
- Outdoor Spaces and Weather Plans:
- If part of the event is outdoors, what is the backup plan in case of bad weather?
- Are there any restrictions on outdoor activities or decorations?
- Insurance and Liability:
- Do we need liability insurance, and is it provided by the venue or ourselves?
- What is the venue’s policy on damages and liability?
- Restrictions and Rules:
- Are there any specific rules or restrictions we need to be aware of?
- Are there any restrictions on cultural or religious ceremonies or customs?
- Amenities and Services:
- What amenities or services does the venue provide, such as tables, chairs, linens, or audiovisual equipment?
- Do you have an on-site coordinator or staff to assist during the event?
- Security:
- Is security provided, or do we need to arrange for security personnel?
- Timeline and Coordination:
- How does the venue coordinate with other vendors and the event timeline?
- Can we have a rehearsal at the venue before the wedding day?
- Reviews and References:
- Can you provide references from previous couples who have used the venue?
- Have there been any recent renovations or changes to the venue?
Getting Ready for your Wedding at Gateway Canyons Resort
Gateway Canyons Resort offers a number of options for getting ready on the resort campus. You can get ready in one of their luxurious rooms you’ve rented for your stay, one of the casitas, or even in the spa.
Lodging for your Wedding Guests
The easiest lodging for you and your guests is to rent rooms at the Resort, or the casitas. If you’re looking for a cheaper or more adventurous option for lodging, look to nearby Thimble Rock Pointe – an A-Frame cabin in Unaweep Canyon, or Gateway Glamping that offers large glamping tents similar to Under Canvas. There is also a good amount of dispersed camping in the area. Beyond that, for traditional corporate hotels, your guests will need to stay in Grand Junction – about an hour drive away.
Wedding Venues at Gateway Canyons Resort
There are a number of spaces for your wedding at Gateway, depending on your vision and guest count.
Mission Bell Amphitheater
Up to 300 Guests
Gateway Canyons is a magical place, and the Mission Bell Amphitheater provides a stunning wedding venue with a wide, covered tiered stage and outdoor seating, opening to our spectacular red rock canyon backdrop.
Palisade Event Center
Up to 200 Guests
The Palisade Event Center, with Grand Hall and Sunset Atrium, allows seating for as many as 200 guests and offers plenty of room for your wedding reception. This is our largest indoor wedding venue and can be arranged for a casual or formal affair.
Paradox Grille
Up to 75 Guests
The Paradox Grill is the perfect place to continue the party after the end of an event. It can be rented for private functions after 10 pm. The upstairs game room is sure to entertain the guests.
Cottonwood Grove
Up to 150 Guests
The shaded lawn of the Cottonwood Terrace is a wonderful location for ceremonies and festivities for up to 150 guests. Featuring a stand of mature cottonwood trees and mountain flora, we can construct a spectacular tent for the reception.
The Ponds
Up to 40 Guests
Create an intimate ceremony set against a spectacular background at the Gateway Ponds. This is the ideal outdoor venue for up to 70 guests.
Important Things to Communicate with Your Guests for Your Gateway Canyons Wedding
Cost of lodging
Rooms and suites at the Resort are more expensive than a typical hotel stay, as the Resort offers a luxurious and more inclusive stay than your average hotel. Be sure to communicate costs associated with lodging to your guests from the get-go.
Distance from town and amenities
Gateway Canyons Resort is a remote resort, about an hour from any major town or amenities. Guests should be prepared to bring in whatever they need before making the hour-long journey from Grand Junction.
Weather
Prepare your guests for the weather and climate of Gateway. Being in Colorado but so near to Utah, many people expect high altitude, cooler weather that they associate with Colorado, when the area is in fact a high desert with red rocks and hot summers. Prepare them for what to wear and expect during their stay.
Wedding Photographer for Gateway Canyons Resort
If you’re looking for a wedding photographer when you get married at Gateway Canyons Resort, and you want someone who is familiar with the area, located nearby with no extra travel costs, and who loves the adventurous luxury of the Resort, I am your gal! Contact me today to get the process started on saving your date.
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