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.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours including prep and flight
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires ability to stand for the flight duration.
Wildlife
History
The area around Essex Junction has a rich railroad heritage, once serving as a key railway hub in Vermont.
Conservation
Above Reality Hot Air Balloon Rides practices eco-friendly operations by minimizing fuel use and respecting wildlife habitats during flights.
Above Reality Hot Air Balloon Rides
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.
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.
Years Experience
Since 2002
Two decades of balloon operations
Scenic Views
Green Mountains & Lake Champlain
Iconic Vermont landscapes
Location
Essex Junction, VT
Launches in northern Vermont
Trip Types
Shared & Private
Options for groups and couples
Secure a shared or private basket ride from Essex Junction — limited daily flights include a champagne toast and crew-led safety briefings.
Arrive Early for Check-In
Give yourself at least 30 minutes before the scheduled flight to complete check-in and safety briefing.
Dress in Layers
Temperatures can vary greatly at altitude, so wear comfortable layers and sturdy shoes.
Camera Ready
Bring a camera or smartphone with fully charged batteries for capturing spectacular aerial photos.
Weather Dependent
Flights are highly weather-dependent; be flexible with scheduling in case of reschedules due to wind or rain.
Layered Clothing
Adjusts to temperature changes during flight and on the ground.
Sturdy Closed-Toe Shoes
Provides support and protects feet during landing in uneven terrain.
Camera or Smartphone
Capture incredible aerial views and memories.
Sunglasses
Protects eyes from glare when flying on sunny days.
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