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Ballooning over Monument Valley in Utah

Air ballooning is a perfect way to marvel at the beauty of any location from a bird's eye view. Utah’s stunning landscape is one of the perfect places to enjoy this breathtaking activity

Best time: May–December

Ballooning over Monument Valley
Ballooning over Monument Valley

What image comes to mind when you think of ballooning in Utah? Stunning views over red rock deserts, unique geological formations, majestic valleys, large mountains, and rivers can be seen as far as the eye can see! The sacred Monument Valley is one of the favourite spots for American balloonists. This place is visited by hundreds of thousands of tourists from all over the world. Balloon festivals are also held in the valley. Ballooning over this tribal park can't be compared with anywhere else in the world. Thousands of people come to watch large colourful balloons floating above the valley in the morning sky.

The flights are conducted from May to December.

Outside of the season, there's another chance to enjoy breathtaking Utah's sceneries from the hot air balloon—at the Bluff Balloon Festival. It's held annually in mid-January in the Valley of the Gods which is as picturesque as the Monument Valley. It's found within Bears Ears National Monument, just a little northeast of the Monument Valley.

Practical info

What makes Monument Valley a perfect place for a hot air balloon ride?

Flying in a hot air balloon over the natural wonder of Monument Valley is an experience of a lifetime. The area boasts unique sandstone formations such as The Mittens and The Totem Pole, creating imposing landmarks. The remote desert basins and the surrealistic ambiance make it the perfect destination for a hot air balloon ride, providing unforgettable experiences during sunrises or sunsets, when the valley displays stunning colors and contrasts. Show more

When is the best time to take a hot air balloon ride in Utah's Monument Valley?

The ideal time frame for hot air balloon rides in Monument Valley is between May and December, as weather conditions are usually stable and pleasant. However, if you are not able to visit during the flying season, you can attend the annual Bluff Balloon Festival in mid-January in Valley of the Gods, which offers stunning views of the mesas, sandstone formations, and valleys covered by winter snows. Show more

What is the significance of the tribal park in Monument Valley?

Monument Valley is an essential part of the Navajo Nation, who consider it a sacred area. Visitors should follow the customs and regulations established by the Navajo people, such as using marked trails, prohibiting camping within the valley, littering or taking souvenirs, and respecting the local fauna and flora. Several balloon flights occur regularly in the valley to honor Navajo culture and support the area's conservation. Show more

Where can hot air balloon rides be taken during the off-season in Utah?

While the flying season for Monument Valley spans between May and December, visitors can still enjoy other balloon festivals in the area. The Bluff Balloon Festival takes place annually in mid-January in Valley of the Gods, providing breathtaking views of the sandstone formations and other unique vistas in northeast Monument Valley. It is an excellent opportunity to explore the area's natural beauty from a different perspective. Show more

How does the Valley of the Gods compare to the Monument Valley in terms of hot air balloon rides?

Although less known than Monument Valley, Valley of the Gods provides the perfect off-season opportunity for hot air balloon rides. The area's striking sandstone formations and remote location create unique flying experiences. The Valley of the Gods is wilder, less crowded, and more primitive, giving visitors an opportunity to explore untouched landscapes of mesas, canyons, and valleys in solitude, while still enjoying stunning views similar to those in Monument Valley. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin