Sedona is such a beautiful landscape of red rocks, lush green forests, wilderness areas with high canyon crimson walls and the glistening Oak Creek which meanders through the Oak Creek Canyon.
But there is only so much we can see from the ground or even hiking to the top of the buttes. One of the other ways to view the spectacular area is from a Hot Air Balloon. There are several hot air balloon companies to choose from to help you with a journey of a lifetime.
This is an adventure for everyone and no one will be disappointed. We have gone and there have been passengers in our basket that were 7 to 80 yrs old. So as you can see that as long as you are adventurous and ready for a trip of a lifetime, then you will be thrilled with your adventure. I can tell you that the views are beyond spectacular.
There are only 2 companies that have permits from the Red Rock Ranger District (which are required)they are Red Rock Balloons and Northern Lights. Sky High Balloons is a sister company to Red Rock Balloons so I am sure they have a permit too. Before you go on a flight, make sure they are certified and to check on permits, you can verify it by calling the Red Rock Ranger District at 928-282-4119.
I have gone with both companies and both Red Rock Balloons and Northern Lights are very professional, friendly and have various trips and packages to fit your needs. Most trips are $195 per person and they are about 1-1.5 hrs long (flight time. Red Rock Balloons gave us Champagne the last time we flew with them and we got a little flight certificate.
Check with all of them and you can compare. Some give DVD's of the trips which is also a nice keepsake.
There is a company named Arizona Balloon Works and I have read many complaints about them and they do not have a permit so you might want to steer clear of them.
I think getting the view from above gives you a great perspective of the area rock formations. If you really don't want to spend any money you could see Sedona from this view, check out Google Earth.At least it gives you an idea of what it is like from the comfort of your desk.
If you are wondering what to wear, ask when you make reservation since it will differ according to the time of year. But I can tell you that the trips start out early in the AM. Sunrise over the red rocks will be spectacular but it is always cold in the am. I found that it is best to wear sturdy shoes ( No sandals, flip flops,etc), pants and then layer your other clothes. That way you can remove a jacket if you get too warm. Also were a hat as the heat from the flame cans get warm on your head. But is not as windy as you would expect. But to be on the safe said, ask when you call for reservations. They can better guide you based on the time of year you are going.
Ballooning is such a wonderful, magical experience that I can't even begin to tell you what it feels like. It's just one of those things you have to live it to feel the freedom. If you can afford the price of the fare, then it is worth it for this once in a life time experience. I've been 2 times and each flight was different and yet I still feel like a kid each time I go. I am sure you will too.
Click Here For Northern Light Balloon
Click Here For Red Rock Balloon
and Red Rock's sister company
Click Here For Red Rock Balloon
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