Hot Air Balloon Rides in Northern California: Up, Up, and Away!

Imagine peacefully floating above gentle hills and green vineyards, drifting with the clouds as the beautiful landscape undulates like a living tapestry beneath you. See California from a new perspective on a hot air balloon flight. Popular in Napa Valley and Sonoma County Wine Country, hot air balloon rides are the perfect opportunity to truly understand the immense natural beauty of the region.

Most hot air balloon rides in Northern California launch at sunrise or sunset. You may be surprised by how tranquil the experience is as you float over rolling hills and vineyards. Enjoy a bird’s eye view of far-away mountain peaks and Pacific Ocean coastlines – and create a special memory that you’ll cherish forever.

You’ll find numerous reputable companies offering hot air balloon flights in Napa Valley, Sonoma County, Sacramento, and the Lake Tahoe region. Book a group flight or upgrade to a private experience with Champagne toasts and a post-flight breakfast. Fly high and float free on an inspiring hot air balloon ride. 

Balloons Above The Valley

Offering legendary and smooth hot air balloon flight over the Napa Valley, Balloons Above The Valley is the go-to place for guests wishing to catch unique, birds-eye views of Napa and the Bay Area. All flights include a pre and post-flight meal and an optional wine tour and flight package.

The adventure starts with a pre-dawn inflating of the balloon and a sunrise launch, thanks to cool temperatures and light wind, and it continues with sweeping views of Napa Valley vineyards and charming towns. Toast your adventure before and after your flight with freshly-baked pastries, meat and cheese tray, and sparkling champagne.

Napa Valley Aloft

Offering one of the most personal and intimate hot air balloon rides over the Napa Valley, Napa Valley Aloft Balloon Rides launches in Yountville, close to Napa. Catch views of Bay Area landmarks like Mt. St Helena, the Vaca Range, and the Mayacamas Mountain Range. If conditions are favorable, the balloon can rise high enough for glimpses of the Sierra Nevadas and San Francisco.

Plan to spend 3.5 to 4 hours during your hot air balloon adventure, which includes check-in, balloon inflation, flying time, pack-up, and a relaxing and hearty breakfast to toast your flight. Be sure to bring layered clothing, as all flights launch at dawn.

Calistoga Hot Air Balloons

There are many reasons to crane your neck upwards in California. The Calistoga Hot Air Balloons treat willing Calistoga visitors to a beautiful and serene experience over the north end of Napa Valley. Aside from the world-famous Napa Valley vineyards, guests can float over renowned North Coast landmarks like Palisade Cliffs, Mt. St. Helena, Old Faithful Geyser, Castello di Amorosa, and much more.

Be sure to bring layered clothing as all balloons launch at dawn, due to optimal conditions in temperature and wind. Don't forget to book special packages, where you can combine your early hot air balloon ride with Napa Valley activities like champagne breakfast, wine touring,and horseback riding.