Tips for a Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride Near Fort Collins, CO
Ready for the experience of your life? A sunrise hot air balloon ride is sure to be something you won’t soon forget! You’ll find these attractions all over Colorado, but Fort Collins provides some especially amazing scenes. From the Rocky Mountains to charming small towns, you’ll see it all from a bird’s-eye view. Check out these hot air balloon ride comfort tips to make sure your experience is a breeze.
1. Know What to Expect From the Experience
First, we recommend knowing what to expect from a hot air balloon ride. If you want to go at sunrise, be prepared for an early morning—typically around 5:30 AM in the summer. Be sure to arrive early so you can watch the balloon’s inflation process, too. Most of the time, you can expect the actual flight to last just an hour, but those 60 minutes certainly pack a punch. You’ll drift peacefully at altitudes ranging from treetop level to 3,000 feet above ground, depending on wind conditions and your pilot’s route.
2. Understand the Ideal Seasons and Weather Conditions
Next, it’s helpful to know the best times of year to go for sunrise hot air balloon rides. Spring through fall usually offers the best riding conditions, with late fall being your best bet if you want to see the changing autumn leaves. However, the specific weather conditions are even more crucial to a smooth ride. Your pilot will monitor the weather closely and postpone or cancel the flight if there’s wind, rain, or heavy fog.
3. Prepare for Your Hot Air Balloon Ride
Most rides are chill and laid-back, but if you want the ideal hot air balloon ride experience, we recommend making a few preparations. Our top tip is to dress in layers and wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes with good traction. If you go in the morning, temperatures can be chilly, but the balloon’s burners provide warmth, and temperatures rise as the sun climbs higher. A few other recommendations include:
- Use a Wrist Lanyard—Strap your camera or smartphone to your wrist with a lanyard so you can capture photos without risking dropping your device over the side.
- Eat a Light Breakfast—While motion sickness is rare in hot air balloons, some passengers prefer having something in their stomach.
- Don’t Bring Valuables—Basket space is limited, and you’ll want your hands free to fully enjoy the experience. Leave your valuables at home or in your vehicle.
4. Prioritize Safety and Comfort
Hot air balloon rides in Fort Collins should have clear safety protocols and follow regulations to the letter. For your own safety, always listen to your pilot’s instructions and ask questions before take-off. Landing is often the bumpiest part—the basket might briefly drag against the ground, but you’ll likely have designated handles to grip onto during landing. If you have any mobility concerns, don’t hesitate to discuss them with the company during the booking process!
5. Check Out Nearby Attractions After Your Ride
After your sunrise hot air balloon ride, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the available lots and Fort Collins and the surrounding areas. You have dozens of options, but here are some of our favorites:
- Old Town Fort Collins, for shops, breweries, and restaurants
- Horsetooth Reservoir, for hiking, picnicking, and water activities
- Cache la Poudre River, for fishing and riverside trails
Take Flight on Your Colorado Adventure
Shoshana Ranch can help you build your dream home right here in Northern Colorado. Sunrise hot air balloon rides are just one of the many things to do in Colorado. This area is also home to beautiful hiking trails, mountain views, and homey small towns. Why not make this region your home? . Connect with us today to learn more.