FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT HOT AIR BALLOONING:

Where do we fly?

On most days, we launch from the historic site of the landmark Groezinger Winery which is now the Vintage 1870 in Yountville. Hot air ballooning is a weather-permitting sport, however, and we are sometimes prevented from flying in the Napa Valley when the early morning summer fog rolls in. Should this happen, we may suggest driving to an alternate location to escape the fog. Our preferred alternate is a lovely Valley north of Calistoga, in Lake County.

How high will we fly?

Although your altitude will vary during the flight, and will depend on the wind conditions that day, average altitudes are between 1,000 and 3,000 feet above the valley floor, but the balloon may go higher if the day's winds permit or require your pilot to do so. Winds permitting, some of your flight will also take place at lower altitudes, including treetop level, for a close-up look at the vineyards.

What should we wear and bring?

Wear casual, comfortable clothing, appropriate for an outdoor adventure, and in layers so that you can adjust to the warming temperatures as the morning progresses. Ladies are probably most comfortable in trousers. Flat-heeled, closed-toe shoes (not your best!) are advisable. Tall men may want to wear a hat or ball cap because of the heat from the burner above. You won't want to be burdened down with large bags in the basket, but we can find room in the chase truck if there are things you cannot leave in your car.

What about special requests?

Since we are committed to offering personalized ballooning adventures, our staff is available to assist you with special requests to make your adventures with us even more special. We regularly accommodate in-flight weddings and marriage proposals, for example. Gift certificates for special occasions are available.

WHAT PEOPLE SAY ABOUT THEIR HOT AIR BALLOON RIDE… Dear Nielsen & Carol Ann Rogers A note to thank you & your crew for the wonderful time we had on our hot air balloon flight. What a superb way to see the Napa Valley! We would like to extend a special thanks to Mark, our pilot, for the informative tour from above. This was the highlight of our California vacation & a birthday present to remember! —Grant & Marlene British Columbia We were there…flew with you… and it was FABULOUS! Jimmy was the perfect pilot and it was a memory that will last for a long time! Thank you… —Helen G. After years of wanting to go on a balloon ride, my wish finally came true last week. And it is an experience I will never forget. It was a gift for my birthday, and an even bigger surprise when Raymond proposed to me with the help of your incredible staff. Thanks so much to all of you who went out of your way for the banner, and to Donna who was the BEST pilot ever !!! The proposal could not have been more romantic. Thanks for making the moment UNFORGETABLE! —Petal A.