Private Balloon Rides Over Driggs with Elevated Ballooning - Jackson, Wyoming

Private Balloon Rides Over Driggs with Elevated Ballooning

Jackson, Wyomingeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Minimal physical exertion required; suitable for most fitness levels.

Overview

Soar above the Teton Valley with Elevated Ballooning’s private early morning balloon rides. Experience serene dawn skies and spectacular views over Driggs, Idaho, in an unforgettable quiet flight.

Details

Rising gently over the rugged landscapes of Driggs, Idaho, Elevated Ballooning offers private early morning balloon rides that transform the Teton Valley into a vast, open-air canvas. Situated east of the Grand Teton mountain range, Driggs blends wide valleys and soaring peaks, creating a dramatic backdrop best seen from 1,000 feet above the ground. This isn’t just a ride; it’s a quiet, almost reverent journey through one of the Northwest’s most striking outdoor playgrounds. Each dawn flight presents a unique interplay of morning light, crisp air, and panoramic views that include the jagged outline of the Tetons, rolling river valleys, and vast agricultural fields below.

Elevated Ballooning’s private rides operate exclusively at daybreak when the air is calmest, offering an unmatched sense of tranquility and clarity. Floating silently, travelers can spot local wildlife like elk grazing in the distance, and the shifting shadows of soaring raptors. The early hour also highlights the diverse geology of the region, from volcanic basalt flows to alpine forests that cloak the lower mountain slopes. This perspective emphasizes Driggs’ vital connection to the larger Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.

What sets Elevated Ballooning apart is the intimate experience: small groups or couples enjoy personalized attention with seasoned pilots who share local insights and natural history during the flight. While many visitors pass through the region for ground-based adventures, this partnership between sky and earth lets you see the vastness and subtle detail of this special part of Idaho like few other platforms can offer.

Outside of the flight window, Driggs rewards with hiking, fly fishing, and after-flight meals in town, which carries the spirit of a mountain community tied closely to its wilderness access. On any clear morning, Elevated Ballooning’s balloons become a singular highlight for visitors drawn to the high mountains, open skies, and the quiet thrill of flight.

Adventure Tips

Arrive before sunrise

Flights take off at dawn, so plan to arrive early for a smooth check-in and weather briefing.

Dress in layers

Mornings can be chilly at altitude—wear warm, breathable layers to stay comfortable.

Bring a camera with a zoom lens

Elevate your shot with zoom to capture wildlife and distant mountain peaks from the basket.

Motion sensitivity

If prone to motion sickness, consider medication beforehand as balloon rides offer subtle, gentle movement.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Bitch Creek Falls – a short hike with quiet forest pools
  • The Driggs Nature Trail – gentle walk with birdwatching spots

Wildlife

  • Elk herds in valley meadows
  • Golden eagles hunting thermals near peaks

History

Driggs lies within the territory of the Shoshone-Bannock tribes, with history tied to early mountain explorers and pioneers.

Conservation

Local operators prioritize low-impact flights, limiting noise and fuel usage to protect wildlife and preserve wilderness character.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Sunrise
Golden hour
Early morning

Best Viewpoints

  • Above Teton Valley
  • Over Snake River floodplain
  • Near the summit ridge line glimpsed from the air

What to Photograph

Mountain peaks
Valley rivers
Wildlife from above

Recommended Gear

Layered clothing

Essential

Multiple layers help you adjust to changing temperatures at altitude.

all specific

Sturdy shoes

Essential

Good footwear is useful for uneven ground during launch and landing.

all specific

Camera or smartphone

Essential

Capture sweeping landscapes and wildlife views from the basket.

all specific

Sunglasses

Protect your eyes from glare during sunrise flights.

spring|summer|fall specific