Shared and private three-and-a-half-hour balloon flights from Essex Junction with panoramic views of the Green Mountains and Lake Champlain and a celebratory champagne toast.
Shared basket rides and private basket flights — sunrise scenic flights and special‑occasion bookings available.
aerial-adventures · Essex Junction
Take to the skies over Vermont on a hot air balloon ride with Above Reality Hot Air Balloon Rides. Soar above the Green Mountains and Lake Champlain for a stunning shared basket experience.
Above Reality Hot Air Balloon Rides is a Vermont-based hot air balloon operator located in Essex Junction. Since 2002, Above Reality has specialized in creating safe, scenic balloon flights that showcase the Green Mountains and Lake Champlain. The company offers both shared basket rides and private basket flights, each typically organized as a three-and-a-half-hour experience that includes ground transportation, the flight from sunrise or selected times, crew support, and a celebratory champagne toast.
Pilots and crew focus on safety, following FAA guidelines and established pre-flight checks, weather briefings, and proven inflation and landing procedures. Above Reality emphasizes experienced flight crews and regular maintenance of its balloons and equipment to support reliable operations. Reservations, group bookings, and private flights are available through advance scheduling, allowing guests to plan for special occasions, proposals, or guided scenic flights.
Passengers can expect panoramic views of Vermont landmarks, including sweeping vistas of the Green Mountains and Lake Champlain from the unique vantage of a hot air balloon. The experience caters to a range of customers, from first-time flyers to experienced ballooning enthusiasts seeking private flights or shared rides.
Above Reality Hot Air Balloon Rides provides clear preflight instructions, safety briefings, and a post-flight celebration to complete the experience. The company’s long history of operations since 2002 and focus on safety and customer experience make it a recognized provider of balloon flights in the Essex Junction and greater Vermont region. Gift certificates and seasonal packages are available for families, anniversaries, corporate events, and memorable celebrations year-round.
“Every outing is organized with local river knowledge, basic safety instruction, and equipment checks before departure.”
Two decades of balloon operations
Iconic Vermont landscapes
Launches in northern Vermont
Options for groups and couples
Open the individual experience guide to confirm current availability, pricing, policies, conditions, and inclusions before booking.
The operator provides clear meeting points, departure times, and destination coordinates for all outings.
Personal flotation devices, emergency protocols, equipment checks, and paddling orientations are provided before departure.
Recommended layering, water shoes, sunscreen, and dry bags are detailed in each experience guide.
Guides share rich knowledge of regional flora, fauna, scenic landmarks, and river navigation.
A glimpse into the experiences, natural landscapes, and adventures waiting on your next trip.
Images supplied on the current Above Reality Hot Air Balloon Rides listing.
Above Reality Hot Air Balloon Rides offers a variety of guided outdoor excursions, scenic routes, rentals, and custom itineraries tailored for families, couples, and adventure enthusiasts.
Yes. Most trips feature comprehensive safety orientations, equipment fittings, and calm routes suited for first-time adventurers. Check the details on individual experience guides for specific age and skill requirements.
Standard safety equipment (such as certified life vests and essential gear) is supplied for each booking. Detailed checklists regarding weather-appropriate attire and personal items are provided prior to departure.
Secure a shared or private basket ride from Essex Junction — limited daily flights include a champagne toast and crew-led safety briefings.
others · Essex Junction
Soar above Vermont’s Green Mountains and Lake Champlain with a private hot air balloon flight from Essex Junction. Enjoy stunning views, expert pilots, and a champagne toast to celebrate your unforgettable adventure.
Click into any experience card above to view current dates, live availability, transparent pricing, cancellation policies, and booking details.