Hot Air Balloon Rides
Information about Hot Air Balloon Rides at the 2025 Stowe Balloon Festival
There are two types of hot air balloon rides available: tethered and untethered hot air ballon rides. A tethered ride is approximately a 10-15 minute ride where the hot air balloon remains tied to the ground and ascends into the air. You get a great view and a fun, accessible experience. The cost is $35 and tickets may be purchased on the day of the event.
Untethered hot air balloon rides are a unique experience where you will have the unforgettable experience of flying over the pastural countryside of Stowe, Vermont. A limited number of tickets will be available and they should be purchased in advance. Read on for more information about untether hot air balloon rides at the 2025 Stowe Balloon Festival!
Untethered Hot Air ballon rides are $450 per person plus 6% VT sales tax and 1% Stowe Sales Tax. A 50% deposit is charged to reserve your spot.
Balloon rides are weather permitting based on conditions at that time and rides will be refunded if they do not occur due to weather.
We would need the total passenger weight (the sum of all passengers being booked), plus your phone number and number of passengers.
Balloons can hold anywhere from 2-5 guests depending on weight. You may request a private balloon ride or may need to split space with another party based on the number in your party and what is available.
The rides are typically between 45 minutes and an hour.
They will be Friday, Saturday, and Sunday night at 6:15pm and Saturday and Sunday Morning at 5:30am (weather dependent).
You need to check in to sign a waiver and some paperwork prior to the launch.
To sign up for a ride please contact us at marketing@vontrappresort.com
Frequently asked questions:
How far will we fly?
We are carried by the wind! If the wind is 4-5 miles per hour and you fly an hour, you will travel 4-5 miles.
What time of day do you fly?
We launch when the winds are the calmest, which is usually at sunrise and a couple of hours before sunset.
How long will we fly in the hot air balloon?
For untether hot air balloon rides, most pilots try to fly an hour. This can vary depending on the terrain and landing availabilities ahead.
How high will we fly?
Usually between tree-top height and 1,000-2,000 feet.
What should I wear on a hot air balloon flight?
Comfortable clothes and supportive shoes in case you have to walk on uneven ground. Weather-appropriate clothes, a hat, and sunglasses are often recommended for a comfortable flight.
How long will we fly in the hot air balloon?
For untether hot air balloon rides, most pilots try to fly an hour, but this can vary depending on the terrain and landing availabilities ahead.
Can I bring my baby / dog / etc with me?
No – Babies and dogs don’t like the very high pitched noise of the burner which produces the heat that keeps the balloon inflated, so it’s not a good idea to bring them. Also, you cannot hold a child in your arms as you might need both of your hands/arms to brace yourself in case the wind picks up and you have a bumpy landing.
Do you need a license to fly a hot air balloon?
Yes! A balloon pilot must go through extensive training and pass written exams plus in-flight training and a check ride by a certified FAA examiner before receiving a license from the FAA.
If I or my acquaintance who wants to go with me is disabled, can they go?
We discourage it for the same reasons as above. Also, there is no way to secure a wheelchair in a traditional balloon basket. There are a few balloons we know of that do have a “door,” but they are mostly used for tethered rides. Another reason is that by trying to secure a wheelchair in a balloon basket you
are basically changing the Standard Type Certification of the aircraft which must be signed off by an FAA Certified Repairman.
Do you need a license to fly a hot air balloon?
Yes! A balloon pilot must go through extensive training and pass written exams plus in-flight training and a check ride by a certified FAA examiner before receiving a license from the FAA.
How do you steer a hot air balloon?
A pilot must learn a great deal about the weather and winds and how to predict and use them to his/her advantage. The pilot often releases a helium inflated balloon to see what the winds are actually doing exactly where they plan to launch.
Are hot air balloon rides safe?
Yes! Hot air balloons are FAA certified aircraft that have to pass annual or 100-hour inspections, and the pilot must pass rigorous training and certifications to obtain a Lighter Than Air license and also pass a biennial flight review.
Does the hot air balloon land back at the launch site?
No! Since a hot air balloon flight is a one-way trip, the balloon chase crew will follow the balloon in the chase vehicle. After helping to land the balloon, the chase crew then packs up the balloon in the vehicle and drives you back to the launch site at von Trapp Lodge & Resort.
How much does a hot air balloon cost?
They typically cost $60,000 to $75,000 for a complete hot air balloon system.
Where should I stay?
Lodging partners for the festival are von Trapp Lodge & Resort and Mountain View Vacations.
More questions? Use the Contact Us form below!
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