Above It All Balloon Company, Inc

Above It All Balloon Company, Inc. offers a specialized form of adventure travel for those visiting the Snowmass Village and Aspen area. As the sole hot air balloon operator in this specific valley, it provides a unique perspective on the Elk Mountains. The company has built a strong reputation, reflected in overwhelmingly positive customer feedback that consistently highlights the professionalism of its team and the quality of the experience.

A recurring theme in client testimonials is the exceptional quality of the staff. The lead pilot, Cameron Freeman, is frequently mentioned by name for his confident, capable, and communicative approach, which helps put even passengers with a fear of heights at ease. Clients have described him not only as a skilled pilot but also as an engaging host, adding to the celebratory atmosphere of the flight. This high level of service extends to the entire crew, who are consistently described as friendly, attentive, and professional, ensuring a smooth process from check-in to the final landing. The company, owned and operated by Bruce and Pam Wood for over two decades, emphasizes a commitment to safety and customer experience, with pilots who are FAA-licensed and attend annual safety seminars.

The Flight Experience

The primary offering from this tour operator is a sunrise flight over the Snowmass Brush Creek Valley. These early morning launches are necessary to take advantage of the calm and stable air, providing the safest and most serene flying conditions. The entire event lasts approximately three hours, with about one hour spent in the air. During the flight, passengers can expect to reach altitudes of up to 2,500 feet, offering panoramic views of iconic peaks like Mount Daly and Capitol Peak. Wildlife sightings, including deer and elk, are also a common part of the journey.

The experience is thoughtfully curated for special occasions, with reviews noting how the team respectfully handles celebrations like anniversaries, birthdays, and even memorials. A traditional champagne toast (with non-alcoholic options) is provided after landing, a classic ballooning tradition that concludes the morning's adventure. This touch transforms the flight from a simple activity into a memorable event.

What to Know Before You Book

While the feedback for Above It All Balloon Company is predominantly positive, potential customers should be aware of several practical considerations inherent to hot air balloon tours. These are not criticisms of the company itself but rather important factors for managing expectations.

• Weather Dependency: All flights are strictly weather-dependent. The pilot holds the sole authority to cancel a flight if conditions are deemed unsafe. In the event of a company-initiated cancellation due to weather, passengers are not charged and can reschedule. This is a critical safety measure, but it means that a booked flight is never guaranteed to proceed.
• Cost: This is a premium experience with a corresponding price point. As of recent information, shared public flights are priced at $395 per person. Private flights for small groups are also available, starting at $3,100 for 2-4 passengers. Gratuities for the pilot and crew are also suggested.
• Cancellation Policy: The company has a strict cancellation policy. Public flights require a 3-day notice for a full refund, while private flights and large groups require 14 days' notice. Last-minute cancellations by the customer will result in charges.
• Early Start: Flights launch at sunrise, which means a very early wake-up call, varying between 5:30 AM and 7:20 AM depending on the season.
• Passenger Requirements: For safety reasons, there are some restrictions. The company does not fly children under the age of six. Passengers must be in good health and free from injuries that could be aggravated by a potentially bumpy landing, although such landings are rare.

Based on extensive customer reviews and public information, Above It All Balloon Company stands out as a highly reputable provider of Colorado tours. The business is owner-operated, has deep roots in the community, and appears dedicated to maintaining high standards of safety and service. While factors like cost and weather are significant considerations, the evidence points to an operator that consistently delivers a safe, professional, and breathtaking experience for those looking to add a unique adventure to their vacation.