Want to see Moab from a whole new perspective? Try a hot air balloon ride.
Floating above sandstone cliffs and winding canyons floor during a sunrise balloon flight is one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have in Moab, Utah. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply chasing an adventure, seeing the red rock country from the sky is nothing short of breathtaking.
In this guide, we’ll break down what to expect from a Moab hot air balloon experience and how to prepare. We'll also go over which companies provide the most memorable rides.
Moab is known for its otherworldly terrain: This terrain is a gorgeous mix of massive red cliffs and spires broken up by wide-open canyonlands. But from above, it becomes even more surreal. A balloon ride offers everything from quiet, serene sky views at sunrise to a unique way to celebrate a birthday, anniversary, or even a proposal. You’ll also gain a new appreciation for Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, as well as views of the La Sal Mountain Range, the Colorado River, and canyon mazes. It’s not just scenic, it’s soul-stirring.
Most hot air balloon rides in Moab launch just outside town and float over:
Red rock mesas and buttes
Natural arches (from a distance)
The deep canyons of Canyonlands National Park
The vast, empty beauty of the desert landscape
Depending on weather conditions and wind speed, your balloon flight may travel toward the La Sal Mountains or sweep over desert valleys and rock formations few people ever get to explore.
A typical hot air balloon ride lasts about an hour, but the whole experience, check-in, inflation, flight, landing, and post-ride celebration, takes 3–4 hours.
Early Mornings: Most flights are sunrise flights to catch calm air and glowing light.
Exact Meeting Time: You’ll be notified the night before based on wind conditions.
Launch Site: Varies based on the best launch site for the day.
Chase Crew: Follows your balloon from the ground and meets you at landing.
Apple Cider Toast: It’s tradition!
Here are two trusted names in Moab hot air balloon adventures:
Local experts with deep knowledge of the terrain
Flights include a post-ride apple cider toast
Known for professional pilots and smooth landings
Offers a true intimate experience with small-group rides
Views of Canyonlands National Park and surrounding wilderness
Stellar reviews for customer service and safety
Both companies offer gift certificates and are great for a special occasion. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, each ride feels like a new adventure.
Even in the summer, early mornings in the air can be cool. Here’s what to wear:
Closed-toe shoes (you’ll be in rough land at takeoff/landing)
A hat (protects from the heat of the air balloon burners)
Layers (it warms up as the sun rises)
Don’t forget to also bring a camera or phone, sunglasses, and a water bottle. If you have these items, you’re good to go! Your pilot will give a quick safety briefing before takeoff, so don’t worry if this is your first time.
Yes. Hot air balloon rides are extremely safe when done by certified pilots under FAA regulations. Flights are only scheduled when weather conditions are just right. If conditions aren’t ideal, your scheduled flight will be postponed or canceled with a full refund.
Trust your pilot: They're highly trained and experienced. Your safety is priority one.
Moab hot air balloon season typically runs from April through October. Spring and fall are ideal, with cooler mornings and more stable wind conditions.
Book your ride early in your trip to allow room for rescheduling if needed. And if you’re staying with Utah’s Best Vacation Rentals, we can help coordinate your booking with a local operator like Redrock Ballooning or Canyonlands Ballooning.
Pair your balloon ride with other unforgettable Moab activities. For example, see Moab from the skies and then explore Arches National Park on foot or paddle the Colorado River. If you prefer to sit back and enjoy the ride, pair it with a drive on the scenic route through Dead Horse Point, or take a jeep tour with Moab Adventure Center. No matter which other activities you choose, there’s no better way to start a day than flying through the sky and soaking in a desert sunrise.
After floating over Moab, you’ll want a cozy place to land.
Book a stay with Utah’s Best Vacation Rentals. Our properties in Moab, Utah, provide the perfect base for any adventure, from hot air balloon flights to exploring national parks.
Why guests love us:
Pet-friendly and family-sized homes
Hot tubs and luxury features
Great proximity to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks
Exclusive local partnerships with Moab Adventure Center and tour companies
Seeing Moab from a hot air balloon is more than a ride. It’s peaceful and majestic, making it totally unforgettable.
Book your balloon flight, pack your sense of adventure, and let Mother Earth show off a bit.
Start your sky-high Moab experience with Utah’s Best Vacation Rentals today.
