Three Sisters Mt Range Pictured from 12,000ft

The Experience

The total time for this trip will be approximately 24hrs. We will meet at a specified time (around mid-day) and location in Redmond OR. From there we will provide shuttle service to our launch location in McKenzie Bridge, about two hour drive away. You will be provided with lodging and dinner that evening prior to our flight. The next morning, we will be up before dawn to get ready for our flight over the mountains. After a quick shuttle to the launch site you can take part in the inflation of the balloon as we make final preparations for lift off. When the balloon is ready you’ll climb into the gondola and we’ll be airborne, making a rapid ascent to around 10,000 ft above sea level. Our cruising altitude will be anywhere between 10,000 to 14,000 ft depending on wind currents. The time and distance of our voyage will vary depending on wind speeds and direction, but on average will be about 2 - 2.5 hours in duration and will cover 40 – 70 miles. Our flight path will take us over the Central Cascade Range with views of every mountain peak from southern Oregon to southern Washington. Behind us to the west you’ll view the ranges and foothills leading to the green fields of the Willamette Valley and as we’re heading east, the broad expanse of the Central Oregon High Desert.

Once beyond the Cascade Ridge we will begin our descent and start looking for suitable landing sites. Our landing areas will vary depending on our wind trajectory which could put us anywhere between Madras to the north and as far south as LaPine. After rejoining our ground crew and packing up the balloon we will shuttle back to our origination point in Redmond to celebrate our journey with a champagne brunch then send you on your way with a new outlook on the world and your relationship with it.

We’ve said it before but it bears repeating, THIS IS NOT YOUR TYPICAL BALLOON FLIGHT! There are many extra factors involved with making these flights safe and successful. My 30+ years of experience as a balloon pilot and hospitality guide will take care of most of those factors, but there will be some requirements from you, because on this flight, you’re not just a passenger, you are an active participant and part of the crew!

Restrictions

*Flight Dates- These flights will be offered when weather permits at varying times during the fall, winter, and early spring, approximately late August through early June, with the most favorable months being late August through November.

*Scheduling- We will only be offering these flights during certain times of the year when weather conditions are most favorable. It will not be possible for you to choose the exact day you’d like to do the flight. You will instead need to provide us with a date range that you will be available to go on the flight if weather conditions should permit. The wider range of dates you can provide the greater your chances are of being called up for a flight.

- When you schedule your flight with us you will be put on a first come, first serve list with the dates you are available. When we have the weather opportunity to make a flight we will start contacting those people on our flight list with the corresponding date ranges.

- We will try to provide you with as much advance notice as possible, but due to ever changing weather conditions we may only be able to provide you with a day or two notice.

- You can also check in with us to see how the weather is looking during your date range availability.

 *Physical Requirements

- Weight limit for any individual is 220lbs or less than 400lbs per couple, exceptions are made for private       charters

- Must be in overall healthy condition, no heart problems, no recent injuries or surgeries

- Ability to hike at least four miles over varied terrain

- Must be able to grip hand restraints firmly, no arm, wrist, or hand injuries

 *Cost

- All-inclusive cost for this once in a lifetime experience is $1750 per person

- Includes all transports, 1 nights lodging, dinner, beverages and snacks on flight day, and a post flight champagne toast with light brunch.