Choosing A Balloon Ride Colorado

By Sally Delacruz


In the United States there are few areas that can compare with the North Western territory. There are canyons and national monuments to visit as well as enjoying some of the best skiing and hunting available in the West. If you are traveling in this area you will find that taking time to visit some of the tourist places is well worth the time spent driving there. One of the more exciting activities offered can be found by reserving a balloon ride Colorado.

You can make reservations with one of many companies found online for any day during the late spring through early fall months. During the months of May through October you will find these businesses open seven days a week. The meeting times are very early in the morning because high winds are common on a daily basis in Colorado. There is generally only a three hour period each day when the winds are calm, the sky is clear and there is no precipitation near the area.

When you inquire you will find that there are very few restrictions placed on clients who wish to experience hot air ballooning. Obviously, you must be able to get into the basket unaided and you will not be admitted to the basket if you are pregnant. There are also age requirements that ban children under five and seniors over eighty. Other health issues include difficulty breathing at higher altitudes and anyone who requires supplemental oxygen.

This business is regulated by the FAA just the same as commercial flights. The pilots are highly skilled and licensed and some spend many hours training the younger personnel. Inspections are frequent and complete. All burners, baskets and balloons are thoroughly inspected for wear as well as performance issues.

You will be aloft for up to an hour when you take off. There is rarely any sign of motion sickness and any fear of heights appears to be alleviated by being in a basket. You may be allowed to watch while they inflate the balloons if you arrive earlier than scheduled. You should land approximately ten miles from the spot you took off from. Wind speed can cause a variance in distance.

Many reservations include a breakfast at the end of the flight. Champagne is served to the clients either with their breakfast or at the end of each flight before breakfast. Generally the meal is intended for clients only but non-fliers can be accommodated for an extra fee. You may be provided with souvenir glasses after the toast is made.

With flight time so short most balloons only make the trip twice a day. Some companies have massive balloons that carry baskets designed for up to twelve passengers at a time. These larger baskets usually come with dividers installed to provide separation of different parties. There are also baskets that are built to carry four people or less. There are balloonists who will perform marriages while airborne for their clients.

Hot air balloons can provide you with an experience you may never forget. Untethered flight in the silence and tranquility of morning while absorbing the beauty of the country side and natural wildlife cannot be described by many who have enjoyed this event.




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