Planning 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.

As an added treat many companies will offer a toast at the end of the ride. They also supply breakfast in many cases and one supplies a commemorative bottle of champagne for their clients. The meals are normally only for the clients who participated in a ride but other family members can attend for a small fee.

You will find several different sizes of basket used for hot air balloons. Some hold up to twelve people and are equipped with massive balloons while others can be as small four people. Most companies offer two flights a day to their clients weather providing. There are specialty flights for occasions such as weddings or birthdays. The larger baskets may contain dividers between groups as a means of providing privacy.

One of the best aspects of ballooning is the quiet beauty and tranquility that can be found during the flight. The panoramic views that are experienced encompass the natural scenery from a point of view that some say cannot be described. You will see wildlife as well as hills and valleys and you will be able to record everything by camera or video from an altitude of five hundred to three thousand feet above the landscape. It may turn out to be an experience you will not soon forget.




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