Frequently asked Questions
Prices...
$450.00/couple
$650.00/party of three
For Reservations:
775.790.7572
Customer
Service
Policies
Related Information
Photos
Tips & Area Info
Getting Around Lake Tahoe, Carson Valley, and northern Nevada
What should I bring?
- Sweatshirt or jacket as it can be chilly in the early morning. (The temperature in the basket will be about the same as the temperature on the ground.)
- Baseball cap or hat.
- Comfortable shoes.
- Camera with extra batteries, plenty of film and/or memory cards
- Back pack to keep your things together
How high will we fly?
It's your balloon, you tell us how high you want to fly! Typically, our altitude varies throughout the flight. We usually start off by flying low (treetop level) to demonstrate our control, then we'll climb to higher altitudes (3,000' to 5,000' above the ground) for spectacular views of the Sierra Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and the entire Carson Valley. Using these upper winds is really key to properly flying the Carson Valley.
Of course, if you'd prefer to stay lower, let us know, and we'll plan your flight accordingly. Remember, it's your balloon!
How fast do we go ?
Balloons go as fast as the wind, which is why we only fly in the early mornings, when the winds are nice and gentle. If surface winds are expected to be faster than 10 mph, we don't fly.
I have a fear of heights!
I can't tell you how many people I've flown that said they had a fear of heights. Believe it or not, I'm one of them. Tall bridges, cliffs, high rise buildings and glass elevators are the worst for me, but I have absolutely no problem in the balloon. I've probably had a few hundred passengers tell me the the same thing... they thought they'd be scared, but never were.
I have NEVER had anyone "freak out" or want to land because they were uncomfortable in the balloon. Never.
Is it cold up there?
Our flights take place in a valley. Cold air is heavier than warm air, and therefore settles in the valley floor. Once we are in the air, we are above that cold air, and you'll notice it getting warmer. This is true year round. In the winter, it's usually much warmer in the air than it is on the ground. Another interesting thing: we travel with the wind, so there's never a wind chill in the balloon.
If you're comfortable on the ground, you will be comfortable in the air.
How do you steer the balloon?
Balloons don't have a mechanical way of steering, and are totally dependent on the winds. However, the Carson Valley is known to have a variety of wind directions and speeds at different altitudes. Your experienced and skillful pilot uses these winds by ascending or descending into them. It's not uncommon for our flights to travel almost any direction on the compass!
Do you need a license to fly a balloon?
Yes. To fly a hot air balloon, you must have either a private or commercial pilot license issued by the F.A.A., just like airplane pilots. For chartered balloon rides, a commercial pilot license is required. Additionally, the holder of a pilot license must take and pass a Biennial Flight Review, and make a minimum of three take offs and landing every 90 days to remain current.
Is your balloon safe?
Absolutely! Hot air balloons must be inspected by an F.A.A. certified facility annually or every 100 hours of commercial use, which ever comes first, just like all other aircraft. During these inspections, every inch of the balloon is tested to ensure airworthiness.
Why can't we bring our young child?
Children under the age of seven, or under 42 inches tall (which can't see over the side of the basket) have a short attention span and can become restless after a few minutes. We've discovered (the hard way) that this distraction often prevents the parents or grand parents from enjoying their flight.
What should I wear?
We recommend casual, comfortable clothing similar to what you would wear when going for a walk or a hike. A hat and sunglasses are a good idea as it is bright up there! Generally, if you are comfortable outside when you leave your house or hotel, you will be comfortable in the air.
Can we sit down in the balloon?
Yes, our balloon can seat two people comfortably, and you'll still be able to see everything! For safety reasons, you will need to be standing for the landing.
Do you fly in the winter ?
Yes! In fact, some of the best ballooning takes place in the winter. The colder the air is, the better the balloon responds. The better the balloon responds, the longer the pilot wants to fly!
Can anyone fly in your balloon?
Almost anyone, but not quite. Pregnant women, or women that may be pregnant may NOT fly. No exceptions. Also, anyone with back, knee or hip problems, or has had recent surgery, or can't stand up for at least an hour may NOT fly.
