If you’re looking for a truly memorable way to start your day in South Dakota, a hot air balloon ride at sunrise over the Black Hills might just be the perfect choice. While I haven’t personally flown with this company, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions make it clear that this experience offers some truly special moments.
What I love about this tour is how it combines the serenity of floating above stunning landscapes with the thrill of wildlife sightings and panoramic views. Plus, the small group size (up to 12 passengers) promises an intimate, peaceful experience. That said, it’s not for everyone—those with mobility issues or pregnant travelers will need to sit this one out.
This tour is ideal for those who appreciate nature, love unique adventures, or are celebrating a special occasion. It’s also a fantastic way to see the Black Hills from a different perspective—early morning light, quiet skies, and the chance to spot local animals make it a genuinely worthwhile outing.
Key Points
- Breathtaking views of mountains, lakes, valleys, and prairies
- Small group setting for a more personal experience
- Wildlife sightings like elk, deer, buffalo, and possibly mountain lions
- Sunrise timing offers a magical, peaceful atmosphere
- Champagne toast and snacks after landing add a celebratory touch
- Flexible booking with free cancellation and pay later options
An In-Depth Look at the Black Hills Hot Air Balloon Experience
Planning more time in Custer? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
Floating gently in a hot air balloon as the sun rises over the Black Hills sounds like something out of a postcard. According to reviews and descriptions, this tour is not only scenic but also relaxing—imagine the silence of the early morning air interrupted only by the occasional burst of the burner, all while being high above some of South Dakota’s most iconic landscapes.
The views are a major highlight. You’ll get an expansive 360-degree panorama of the Black Hills, including Custer State Park, with its unique rock formations, lush forests, and shimmering lakes. Many reviewers mention that the scenery is simply stunning, especially with the early morning light. One reviewer described the fog at lift-off as “magnificent,” emphasizing how atmospheric the experience can be.
The Itinerary and What You Can Expect
The adventure begins at a designated meeting point next to Old Pine Social, easy to find if you’re nearby Custer. From there, you’ll be transported to the launch site—most likely a quiet, scenic spot away from busy roads, giving you that feeling of stepping into a different world.
Once at the site, you’ll get a safety briefing, and then it’s time to ascend into the sky. The actual flight lasts about an hour, though the entire experience, including prep and post-landing celebrations, takes around three hours. During the flight, your pilot will be happy to answer questions and point out notable landmarks and wildlife.
While the exact views depend on weather conditions, many reviews mention seeing abundant wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for elk, antelope, whitetail deer, buffalo, mule deer, and perhaps even a mountain lion if you’re lucky. Flying just miles from legendary sites like Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse means you’ll have these iconic attractions in your sights from a whole new angle.
The Safety and Comfort Aspects
Safety is clearly a priority, with certified pilots guiding the balloon. The group size is capped at 12, which means you won’t be jostled around like in larger tours. Reviewers have praised the crew’s friendliness and professionalism, noting that they are helpful and entertaining.
The weather plays a big role—favorable conditions mean a smooth, quiet ride, free of wind and clouds. You’ll be called the evening before to reconfirm your departure time, which varies depending on weather. So, flexibility is key to planning this adventure.
More Great Tours NearbyPost-Landing Celebrations
Once back on the ground, you’ll be treated to a champagne toast, light snacks, and a souvenir flight certificate. Many find this part of the experience charming and a great way to cap off their adventure. Some reviews mention sharing stories and drinks in the quiet of the woods, which adds a personal, memorable touch.
Pricing and Value
At $375 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but the reviews suggest it’s well worth the expense. For a once-in-a-lifetime experience—floating over the Black Hills at sunrise, spotting wildlife, and enjoying a celebratory toast—the cost aligns with what you get. It’s a chance to witness some of South Dakota’s most beautiful scenery from a perspective few get to see.
Practical Tips
- Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen—early mornings can be cool, but the sun gets strong.
- Open-toed shoes are not allowed, so plan accordingly.
- Check your email or call after 6 PM the night before to confirm your exact departure time.
- Weather conditions affect the flight, so patience and flexibility are important.
- This tour isn’t suitable for children under 4, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues.
Review Highlights
Many travelers describe their experience as “magical,” “peaceful,” and “fantastic.” One reviewer called it “a beautiful way to celebrate our 40th wedding anniversary,” highlighting how special this can make an occasion. The guides are often praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and humor, making the experience both informative and fun.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re someone who loves nature, open-air adventures, and stunning views, this ride will likely be a highlight of your trip. It’s perfect for romantic getaways, adventurous couples, or anyone seeking a peaceful, scenic start to their day.
However, if you’re not comfortable with heights, or if you have mobility issues or are pregnant, it’s probably best to pass on this experience. It’s also worth noting that the timing is early morning, so be prepared to wake up early for this outing.
Final Thoughts
The Black Hills hot air balloon ride at sunrise offers a unique way to see some of South Dakota’s most iconic landscapes. With the chance to spot wildlife, enjoy peaceful skies, and toast your experience with champagne, it’s an outing that many reviews describe as “special,” “magical,” and “worth every penny.”
While the cost might seem high, the quality of the views, the professionalism of the crew, and the once-in-a-lifetime feeling make it a strong contender if you’re after an unforgettable adventure. Just remember: good weather is key, so keep your plans flexible, and prepare for an early start.
Custer: Black Hills Hot Air Balloon Flight at Sunrise
FAQs
How long does the entire experience last?
The whole experience takes about 3 hours, with the actual flight lasting around 1 hour. You’ll also spend time on safety briefings, transportation, and celebrations afterward.
What is the cost of the tour?
It’s $375 per person, which includes the ride, pilot, transportation to the launch site, champagne, snacks, a souvenir certificate, and taxes.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen are recommended. Remember, open-toed shoes are not allowed.
When do I need to reconfirm my flight?
You should check your email or call after 6:00 PM the evening before your scheduled flight to confirm your exact departure time and weather conditions.
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 4 years old, pregnant women, or those with mobility impairments.
What if the weather isn’t good?
Flights depend on weather conditions like wind and fog. If conditions aren’t safe, your tour may be canceled or rescheduled, and you can usually cancel for a full refund if you do so more than 24 hours in advance.
Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews consistently praise the guides’ friendliness, humor, and knowledge, making the whole experience more engaging.
What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see animals like elk, antelope, deer, buffalo, and possibly mountain lions, depending on the day.
How is the group size managed?
The group is limited to 12 passengers, ensuring a more personal and less crowded experience.
Can I book this experience with flexible payment?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, which adds flexibility if your plans change.
If you’re after an unforgettable way to see the Black Hills at dawn, this hot air balloon flight seems like a fantastic choice. Just remember to check the weather, arrive prepared, and enjoy what many have called a “magical” experience.
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