Above Reality Hot Air Balloon Rides lifts you over Vermont’s lush landscapes from Essex Junction, offering serene flights with expert pilots, spectacular views, and post-flight celebrations that create lasting memories.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical fitness required; must be able to stand for the duration of the flight and navigate uneven terrain during landing.
Wildlife
History
Essex Junction has long been a transportation and logistics hub shaped by railroad expansion in the 19th century, linking Vermont’s rural and urban areas.
Conservation
Above Reality emphasizes minimizing environmental impact by carefully selecting landing sites and promoting respect for local ecosystems during flights.
Above Reality Hot Air Balloon Rides
Above Reality Hot Air Balloon Rides lifts you over Vermont’s lush landscapes from Essex Junction, offering serene flights with expert pilots, spectacular views, and post-flight celebrations that create lasting memories.
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.
Schedule Flights by Weather
Balloon flights depend on calm winds and clear skies, so remain flexible with your booking to maximize the chances for safe and scenic flying.
Dress in Layers
Temperatures can vary at altitude, so wear layers that can adapt to cooler conditions up in the air.
Wear Flat, Closed-Toe Shoes
Sturdy shoes provide safe footing during takeoff and landing, especially in grassy or uneven fields.
Arrive Early
Plan to arrive before your scheduled flight to meet the crew, hear safety instructions, and watch the balloon inflation process.
Layered Clothing
Adjust to changing temperatures aloft by adding or removing layers.
all
Sturdy, Closed-Toe Shoes
Protect your feet during takeoff and landing in grassy or rough areas.
all
Hat and Sunglasses
Shield your eyes and face from the sun during daylight flights.
spring|summer|fall
Camera or Smartphone
Capture the sweeping landscapes and moments of the flight.
all