Frequently Asked Questions
You’ll spend 30 minutes in the air, but plan on 2 to 2 1/2 hours for the entire experience.
Although hot air ballooning is an adventure for all ages, we discourage flyers under the age of 5. The noise of the burners can be loud and scary to younger children but the choice is left up to each family.
Generally, there is not a weight limit, but if you have concerns, the best thing to do is call Austin at 970-317-3290 and you can talk about it.
There is a $25 cancellation fee per person if you cancel your flight more than 24 hours in advance. The remainder will be refunded to you.
Unfortunately, we cannot offer refunds on cancellations made within 24 hours of flight.
Weather cancellations are reimbursed in full. See the Weather FAQ below for more.
For safety reasons, all hot air balloon flights are heavily dependent upon weather. A flight may be cancelled due to wind, cloud cover, rain or extended periods of snow.
Winds are calmest in the morning, which is why our flights are early.
We get weather reports from a federally authorized government agency. If a flight is cancelled due to weather, you’ll receive a phone call from us as soon as we know (that morning or the night before), and a chance to reschedule or a full refund.
Each passenger must be able to climb in and out of the basket and stand for up to an hour at a time (there are no chairs in or out of the basket).
You have the option to help inflate and deflate the balloon, and often, it’s one of the most enjoyable aspects of the ride. We encourage people to help up to their ability if they’re interested. It’s also okay to stand back and take pictures if you prefer.
Rocky Mountain Balloon Adventures has a large basket that can carry 10-12 passengers depending on the time of year and outside air temperature.
During our busy season, we may book up to 20 people and do flights back-to-back. This means everyone pitches in to inflate the balloon and the first group will fly while the others watch and follow in our van. Then, the second group will fly. Afterwards, we’ll all deflate and pack the balloon away.
Please note that back-to-back flights do not cut into your air time.
Because we drift with the winds we’ll return to the original launch site by van for the closing ceremony.
We offer flights year round, depending upon weather. Each season offers its own beautiful views.
Check Availability to view our calendar and see what days are available.
What to expect: you’ll be assisting in inflating and deflating the balloon (unless you choose not to), walking over uneven terrain and climbing in and out of the basket. Temperatures will change throughout the experience as well.
- Dress comfortably for the season and in layers
- Wear sturdy shoes (no sandals)
- In the winter, the burner will help keep you warm and we recommend wearing snow boots
- Sunglasses, hats and consider wearing sunscreen
Cameras, video cameras and your sense of adventure!
Many people who experience motion sickness elsewhere, do not in hot air balloons. This is due to the smooth and slow movements matching the wind. There is very little sense of height or motion, only a floating sensation.
We highly recommend eating breakfast and drinking plenty of water prior to flight to help combat any issues. You can read more on Preparing to Fly.
This is when we fly the balloon just inches over one of the area’s lakes before rising into the air again.
Note: Very highly dependent upon wind directions and speeds, a Splash-n-Dash cannot be guaranteed.
Summer is our busiest season and we recommend booking as soon as possible to ensure your spot.
Check Availability to view our calendar and see what days are available.
Tipping is not required but a Tip Jar will be out if you would like to contribute. Tips are split between the ground crew.
We have some information and a diagram on our Safety page, along with a link where you can learn more if you like.
