09/13/2026
LAUNCH UPDATE FOR SUNDAY MORNING SUNRISE FLIGHT:
7:15am UPDATE: cancelled due to wind direction and precipitation that is too close for comfort. Precipitation means unstable conditions and we cannot take the risk.
No one is more heartbroken to stay grounded than our hot air balloon pilots, who traveled from across the country, booked lodging, and invested their own resources just to fly for you this weekend.
We share your disappointment that the flights weren’t possible this year, but we are so grateful for your continued support, your understanding, and for coming out to celebrate this community with us - even when the skies have other plans.
We’re very jealous of the paragliders - their maneuverability allows them to steer safely to designated landing zones.
6:40am UPDATE: Waiting another minute and doing another weather check. Sorry for the delay - just want to make sure current conditions don’t change.
6:15am UPDATE: Pilots are entering the field now. A second weather check is necessary due to the possibility of an unfavorable wind direction. Because we cannot steer and use the winds to navigate, we need to make sure we don’t fly towards rugged terrain or National Forest Service (currently in a Stage 2 Fire Restriction with no driving off-road). Also watching some precipitation on radar. Will update again shortly.
SAT NIGHT UPDATE: As far as we can tell, the weather is looking favorable for a sunrise flight.
If you’re planning to come out and watch from the rim, here is what you need to know:
When: Balloons will begin inflating at dawn, with launch window starting around sunrise (approx. 6:30–7:00 AM).
Where to Watch: Spectator viewing is exclusively from the Stratobowl Rim Trail overlook off Hwy 16. The canyon floor is strictly private property and pilot/crew only.
Arrival: The hike to the rim is about 0.8 miles down a dirt road/trail. Arrive early in the dark to hike in, get settled, and catch inflation.
What to Bring: Flashlight/headlamp, warm layers (Black Hills mornings are crisp!), a camp chair or blanket, and hot coffee.
Leave No Trace: There are no facilities or trash bins at the overlook, so please pack out whatever you pack in.
As always with ballooning, safety is our top priority. Final launch decisions depend on localized surface and upper-level winds at dawn. Check back here in the morning for any last-minute weather updates. We will update the top of this post when we have updates.
