Colorado Springs: Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Flight

Chances are, you’ve seen stunning photos of Colorado’s rugged mountains and sweeping plains, but nothing beats seeing this scenery from the serenity of a hot air balloon. We’re talking about gently floating several thousand feet above the Earth, guided by the wind, with panoramic views stretching over 100 miles in all directions. This particular tour, operated by Adventures Out West, offers a peaceful, awe-inspiring way to start your day in Colorado Springs, and the reviews show it’s a favorite among travelers seeking authentic adventure and spectacular scenery.

What we really love about this experience? It’s the chance to see snow-capped peaks and wide-open spaces without the noise and chaos of more traditional sightseeing. Plus, the knowledgeable pilots make all the difference—they’re experts who bring a reassuring calm and a wealth of local knowledge. The only potential downside? The weather plays a big role; if it’s cloudy or windy, your flight might be postponed or canceled, so flexibility is key. Still, for those who love outdoor adventures with a touch of elegance, this tour is perfect. It’s especially ideal for couples celebrating a special occasion, or travelers who simply want a memorable, picture-perfect start to their Colorado trip.

Key Points

• Breathtaking Views: See snowcapped mountains, rivers, and plains for over 100 miles in all directions.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable pilots like the friendly crew from Adventures Out West ensure a safe and informative flight.
• Authentic Experience: Glide silently with the wind, offering a tranquil and immersive perspective of Colorado’s landscapes.
• Post-Flight Celebration: Enjoy a champagne toast, fresh fruit, and pastries, making it feel like a special occasion.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups of up to 8 participants create a more personal and engaging experience.
• Weather Dependent: Flights run daily at sunrise, but weather can impact schedules, so flexibility matters.

An In-Depth Look at the Colorado Springs Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Tour

The Itinerary: From Landing to Breakfast and Back

The tour kicks off early, with meet-up at the Radisson Hotel Colorado Springs Airport lobby. From there, it’s just a short drive to the launch site, where the crew prepares the balloon while you get a quick safety briefing. Once airborne, the real magic begins. You’ll glide over the Spanish Peaks, with the towering Longs Peak often visible in the distance.

The flight itself lasts about an hour, during which you’ll notice how silent and peaceful it is—just the crackling of the burner and the hum of the wind. The pilots expertly navigate the balloon, guiding you over ranch land, spotting wildlife like deer, coyotes, and even pronghorn antelope, according to reviews. You might swoop low enough to see animals in their natural habitat, or rise high above to take in the vast Colorado plains and snow-capped mountains.

Throughout the flight, the crew offers insights into local geography and the ballooning process, adding a layer of education to the experience. The entire operation is guided by skilled pilots—reviewers particularly mention the helpfulness and friendliness of guides like Jon and Matt, who put nervous first-timers at ease.

The Crowning Moment: The Champagne Toast

Once you’ve gently floated back down to earth, the celebration begins. Expect a toast with champagne or orange juice, served in glassware, along with fresh fruit and pastries. It’s a celebratory touch that elevates the experience from pretty scenery to a memorable event. Many travelers mentioned how special this part was—one reviewer even called it “a celebration you’ll want to repeat.”

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, including transportation, the flight, and post-flight refreshments. The actual flight is about an hour long, which is ample time to soak up the views without feeling rushed. The meeting point is conveniently located at the Radisson Hotel Colorado Springs Airport, and the activity ends right back there.

Cost-wise, at $375 per person, it’s a premium experience—but one that offers excellent value considering the breathtaking views, expert guides, and the memorable post-flight celebration. The small group size—limited to 8 participants—means you get personalized attention and a more intimate experience. Booking is flexible; you can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Weather and Other Considerations

Since balloon flights are weather-dependent, it’s good to be prepared for possible changes. Flights run daily at sunrise, but if the weather conditions aren’t suitable, your scheduled flight might be postponed or canceled, and you’ll be offered a new date. Dress in layers with closed-toe shoes, and bring sunglasses and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, or people with certain health issues like back problems or mobility restrictions. Also, there’s a weight limit of 230 lbs (104 kg), which is common in the industry for safety reasons. Keep these factors in mind when booking to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

What Reviewers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the professionalism and friendliness of the crew, highlighting guides like Jon and Matt for their helpfulness and expertise. One traveler described it as “an amazing experience,” adding that the company is “very reliable and knowledgeable.” Another shared how they celebrated a 27th wedding anniversary in the balloon, emphasizing the romantic and memorable vibe. The views were described as “spectacular,” and several noted that the champagne toast and snacks made the whole experience feel like a special event.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re a traveler who loves authentic, scenic adventures and appreciates a touch of elegance and history, this is a perfect choice. It’s excellent for romantic getaways, milestone celebrations, or anyone eager to see Colorado’s stunning landscape from a new perspective. You’ll love the peaceful float over mountain peaks and plains, and the chance to spot wildlife from above.

That said, it’s best suited for those who don’t mind getting up early and understand that weather can impact plans. Since the tour is limited in size, you’ll get a more personal, less commercial feel—ideal for travelers who want a genuine, heartfelt experience.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely, yes. The value lies in the unparalleled views, the expertise of the guides, and the memorable champagne toast that caps off the flight. While it’s a bit of an investment, compared to the overall experience—gazing over snow-dusted peaks, floating over ranch land, and sharing a celebratory drink—it’s a worthwhile indulgence for those wanting something truly special in Colorado Springs.

This tour is particularly well-suited for those who seek peaceful, scenic adventure combined with knowledgeable guidance. It’s a fantastic way to mark a special occasion or simply add a unique chapter to your Colorado story. If you’re comfortable with early mornings and weather permitting, it’s a choice you won’t regret.

FAQs

How long does the entire experience last?
The full activity lasts about 3 hours, including transportation, the flight, and post-flight refreshments. The actual flight is roughly an hour.

Where is the meeting point?
The tour begins in the lobby of the Radisson Hotel Colorado Springs Airport at 1645 Newport Rd, Colorado Springs, CO.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers with closed-toe shoes. Mornings can be cool, especially at sunrise, so bring a jacket or sweater.

Is the flight suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 6 years old. It’s also not recommended for pregnant women or those with back problems.

What about weather cancellations?
Flights run daily at sunrise, but weather conditions such as wind or clouds can cause cancellations or delays. Flexibility is advised.

What wildlife might I see?
Reviewers mention spotting deer, coyotes, jack rabbits, and even pronghorn antelope. The landscape offers a good chance for wildlife viewing from above.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, with full cancellation options up to 24 hours in advance.

To sum it up, this hot air balloon flight over Colorado Springs presents an incredible combination of scenic beauty, expert guidance, and memorable moments. It’s perfect for those who want a peaceful, majestic view of Colorado’s landscape, paired with the thrill of floating high above it all. Just remember to keep an eye on the weather forecast, dress warmly, and get ready for a truly uplifting adventure.