A Perfect Introduction to Hot Air Ballooning
If you’ve ever been curious about what it’s like to soar above the landscape in a hot air balloon but felt hesitant about the experience, a tethered hot air balloon ride with Rainbow Ryders is the perfect introduction, as they give you the thrill of floating above the ground while remaining securely anchored.
What to Know About Tethered Balloon Rides
Tethered flights are designed to be accessible and fun for nearly everyone, but passengers must meet a few basic physical requirements, such as:
- Being physically able to climb into the basket without assistance
- Standing for the duration of the five to ten-minute ride
- Being capable of handling the gentle landing, which is comparable to hopping off a dining chair
If you meet these requirements, you’ll be able to go on one of these short but exhilarating rides at one of our various locations, and dip your toes into the world of hot air ballooning.
These Rides are Great For
Tethered flights offer an exciting glimpse into the world of hot air ballooning, even for people who are nervous about heights. Some settings that these short rides are ideal for are:
- Corporate retreats
- Weddings
- Big private parties
- Team building events
- Customer & client appreciation events
- Sale incentive trips
- Big gatherings of families or friends
Whether you’re hosting a small, intimate gathering or a large-scale event, we’ll work with you to ensure everything runs smoothly, leaving your guests with smiles, stories, and unforgettable moments.
What Makes a Tethered Hot Air Balloon Flight Special?
We offer customizable tethered flight packages for events of all sizes, with baskets that accommodate anywhere from 2 up to 12 passengers per flight. Other benefits include:
- Exclusivity – A tethered hot air balloon ride is an unforgettable experience and stands out from typical corporate events.
- Photo experiences – Passengers can take stunning photos that can be used for corporate marketing or shared on social media.
- VIP treatment – Get exclusive treatment such as private rides and personalized service.
- Suitability for various events – Whether it’s a corporate retreat, team-building event, product launch, or VIP client entertainment, tethered balloon rides add excitement while fostering team bonding.
How Does a Tethered Balloon Ride Work?
On the day of your tethered flight, our skilled crew and experienced pilots will tether the hot air balloon to the ground with strong ropes before inflating the balloon’s envelope using high-powered fans. As the balloon slowly fills with air, you’ll witness the colorful envelope rise into its full glory. Once fully inflated, you’ll step into the basket for your flight.
The already-secured ropes allow the balloon to ascend to around 50 feet while staying securely tied to three vehicles, so you can experience the feeling of flight without drifting away. After 5 to 10 minutes of hovering in the sky, the pilot will gently guide the balloon back down, allowing the next set of guests to enjoy the experience.
Safety
At Rainbow Ryders, your safety is our top priority. We ensure that every tethered balloon ride is conducted in a large, open space free of obstacles such as trees and power lines. Our pilots are all licensed professionals with years of experience, and every flight is conducted in optimal weather conditions to guarantee the safest possible experience for our guests.
FAQs about Tethered Balloon Rides
How high does a tethered balloon fly?
Tethered hot air balloons typically ascend to a height of about 50 feet. This moderate altitude allows you to take in breathtaking 360-degree views of the surroundings, making it perfect for snapping photos. The ride offers a thrilling perspective from above while keeping you anchored safely to the ground.
Can I bring anything on a tethered balloon ride?
Yes! Much like a traditional balloon flight, we recommend bringing a camera or smartphone, sunglasses or a hat, and comfortable clothing and footwear. We advise against bringing bulky bags or large items, as space in the basket is limited, and keeping the basket uncluttered ensures a safe and comfortable ride for everyone.
What’s included in a tethered balloon ride?
When you book a tethered balloon ride with Rainbow Ryders, you can expect multiple ascents and descents, giving different guests a chance to experience this thrill in 5-10 minute increments. You can also count on stunning views from 50 feet up and stability from the professionally anchored tether.
Learn More About Our Locations
Albuquerque
- Get an aerial view of New Mexico's scenic Rio Grande Valley and the Sandia Mountains.
Phoenix
- Drift above saguaro cacti and see the rugged mountain ranges of Arizona's Sonoran Desert.
Colorado Springs
- See Colorado's dramatic Rocky Mountains and the iconic Garden of the Gods from the sky.
Park City
- Get sweeping views of Utah's Wasatch Mountains while gliding in a hot air balloon.