About Your Flight

WHAT TO EXPECT ON YOUR FLIGHT DAY . . .

FAQ's:

1. AT THE LAUNCH SITE

The winds and weather are checked again and if all is well the ground crew will prepare the balloon for inflation ( we don’t “blow up” balloons – we inflate them :-) You will want to have your camera ready for up close and personal shots. A very fascinating 15 minute process!

Once on board, your pilot will give you a pre-flight briefing for the voyage of your lifetime!

2. THE FLIGHT

Because the cool mountain air usually drains southward out of Colorado the balloon will likely drift gently down the Gorge, following the running water of the Rio Grande River.

Once airborne, your pilot will guide the balloon over the Gorge and gently descend as much as 600 feet below the rim.

As you float through the Gorge, you will want to have your camera ready to snap shots of the shadow of the balloon ( called “ ballooner eclipses “ :-) or Golden Eagles or perhaps a hawk perched on the cliff walls.

After flying inside the Gorge for awhile, your pilot will ascend to an altitude that will allow you to see the entire Taos Valley.

While we are flying our fearless chase crew ( since we don’t know where we will land they are called “chase crew” instead of “catch crew ” :-) will be following us and after landing will repack the balloon.

3. POST-FLIGHT

After the flight we do the the 226-year-old traditional Champagne toast and we also fill out "Flight Certificates" for you as proof to the world that you are now “Lighter-than-air-heads”.

You cannot imagine how excited you will be with what you have just experienced, and you will truly enjoy reminiscing about your flight!

What should I wear?

Since we are flying on a high desert mesa dress like you are going camping ( clothes you don’t mind getting dirty :-) Jeans and Sneakers are a great choice. However, open toed shoes and high heels are not recommended. Be sure to dress for early morning temperatures and "layer" so you can stay comfortable as the day warms up. Hats and sunglasses are good items to bring!

How much time should I allow?

The whole adventure will take approximately 3 1/2 to 4 hours, but because of the early morning start, we will have you back at your hotel in time to spend much of the day enjoying other things to do in Taos.

Can children fly in the balloon?

We fly Children ages 6 -12 years (children must be accompanied by an adult). Children under 6 years of age are welcome to ride with the Chase Crew during the flight.

How do I get to the launch site?

Someone from Pueblo Ballooning Company will pick you up at any Taos area hotels or B&B's then travel to the launch site.

Will I have to sign a waiver?

Yes, each guest must sign a waiver before boarding the balloon.

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