Northern Light Balloon Expeditions
Experience a Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride in Sedona
Northern Light Balloon Expeditions is Sedona's original hot air balloon company, offering sunrise balloon flights over Arizona's Red Rock Country since 1974. This family-owned business has more than 50 years of experience introducing visitors to Sedona's desert landscape from the air.
Travelers can choose shared sunrise flights or reserve a private hot air balloon for a special occasion. Northern Light operates balloons accommodating up to 7 or 14 passengers, depending on passenger weights, and provides complimentary pickup and return transportation from most Sedona hotels.
Flights take place year-round when weather conditions permit. Experienced, FAA-licensed commercial balloon pilots guide each flight, selecting altitude and landing locations according to wind and safety conditions. The experience concludes with a traditional champagne celebration and refreshments.
For couples, families, photographers and travelers looking for a different perspective of Sedona, Northern Light offers an opportunity to experience the area's red rock scenery from above.
Why Choose Northern Light Balloon Expeditions?
Northern Light has been operating in the Sedona area since 1974 and remains a family-owned business. The company is one of only two hot air balloon operators permitted by the Coconino National Forest's Red Rock Ranger District to operate in the Sedona Red Rock area.
More Than 50 Years of Sedona Ballooning
Founded in 1974, Northern Light brings decades of local ballooning experience to its sunrise flights. The company operates with FAA-licensed commercial pilots and experienced ground crews, with flight decisions based on weather, wind and suitable landing conditions.
Smaller Balloon Options
Northern Light uses balloons designed to accommodate up to 7 or 14 passengers. Its larger balloons have separate passenger compartments. Actual capacity depends on passenger weights and operating conditions. Guests may request a particular balloon size, although assignments cannot be guaranteed.
Private Sedona Balloon Flights
Private hot air balloon reservations are available for couples, families and groups who want an exclusive balloon experience. Private flights can be arranged for anniversaries, birthdays and other celebrations. Short wedding ceremonies or vow exchanges may also be possible with advance arrangements.
Sunrise Flights Over Red Rock Country
Flights are scheduled around sunrise, when cooler air and generally calmer conditions are more suitable for ballooning. Northern Light commonly launches from an area off Lower Red Rock Loop Road near Red Rock State Park. Exact flight paths vary because balloons travel with the wind.
Complimentary Sedona Hotel Transportation
Pickup and return transportation are included from most Sedona hotels. Guests staying at vacation rentals, private residences or outside the pickup area generally meet at a designated central location. Exact arrangements are confirmed with the operator before the flight.
Direct Booking Without Added Booking Fees
Northern Light operates its own reservation system rather than relying on a rented third-party booking platform. Online payments are processed through Stripe. The company states that it does not add booking fees or taxes to its advertised flight prices. Guests can reserve online or contact the company directly by telephone.
Sedona Balloon Flight Options and Current Prices
Northern Light offers shared and private sunrise hot air balloon experiences. The following prices were verified against the company's published rates on October 27, 2026.
| Flight Option | Published Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Shared Sunrise Balloon Flight | $375 per person | Couples, individuals and small groups |
| Small Private Balloon | $2,625 per balloon | Private celebrations and smaller groups |
| Large Private Balloon | $4,500 per balloon | Private group experiences |
Pricing notes: Private balloon prices cover the entire reserved balloon rather than individual passenger tickets. Balloon assignments depend on the number and combined weight of passengers. Northern Light states that no additional taxes or booking fees are added to these published prices. All rates are subject to change; confirm the current price with the operator before booking.
What Is Included in a Northern Light Balloon Flight?
- Sunrise hot air balloon flight with an FAA-licensed commercial pilot
- Experienced ground crew and flight support
- Complimentary pickup and return transportation from most Sedona hotels
- Traditional post-flight champagne celebration
- Complimentary pastries and post-flight refreshments
- Views of Sedona's red rock landscape, depending on the day's wind and flight route
How to Book Directly with Northern Light Balloon Expeditions
Reservations can be made through Northern Light's official website or by calling (928) 282-2274 or 1-800-230-6222. Advance reservations are required.
Guests should have their preferred flight date, full passenger names, accurate individual passenger weights and lodging information ready when booking. Accurate weights are necessary for balloon capacity and flight planning.
For shared flights, Northern Light currently requires a 50% deposit, with the remaining balance processed after the flight. Private balloon reservations require payment in full at booking. Weather cancellations are refundable under the operator's published policy. Guest cancellations made within 48 hours of the flight are generally nonrefundable.
Check Northern Light Balloon Rates & Availability »
Planning Your Sedona Hot Air Balloon Experience
Where Do Northern Light's Balloons Fly?
Northern Light operates in the Sedona Red Rock area of northern Arizona. The company's preferred launch area is off Lower Red Rock Loop Road, near Red Rock State Park and outside the Sedona city limits.
Hot air balloons do not follow fixed sightseeing routes. Pilots can adjust their altitude to use different wind layers, but the prevailing winds determine the general direction of travel. Views of specific landmarks, including Cathedral Rock or other named formations, cannot be guaranteed.
Sunrise Schedule and Flight Duration
Northern Light schedules its passenger flights around sunrise, when conditions are generally more favorable for ballooning. Guests should contact the company the day before their scheduled flight to confirm their exact pickup location and departure instructions.
Passengers should allow several hours for transportation, launch preparations, the balloon experience, landing, refreshments and the return trip. Actual time in the air and the overall schedule vary with conditions.
Safety, Age and Physical Requirements
- Minimum age: 5 years
- Minimum height: 42 inches
- Standing: Passengers must be able to stand for up to approximately 2 hours
- Basket access: Guests must be able to climb into and out of the balloon basket
- Pregnancy: Pregnant guests are not permitted to fly under the company's current safety and insurance requirements
- Weather: Flights may be canceled or postponed for unsuitable conditions
- Clothing: Long pants, supportive closed-toe shoes, layers and a hat are recommended
Balloon baskets do not have passenger seating. Landings vary with wind conditions and may occasionally involve bumps or the basket tipping. Travelers with physical limitations should review the operator's requirements before making a reservation.
Contact Northern Light Balloon Expeditions
Business: Northern Light Balloon Expeditions
Location: Sedona, Arizona
Local phone: (928) 282-2274
Toll-free: 1-800-230-6222
Reservations: Online or by telephone, advance booking required
Operating season: Year-round, weather permitting
Flight schedule: Sunrise departures
Visit Northern Light's Official Booking Website »
FAQs About Northern Light Balloon Expeditions and Sedona Hot Air Balloon Rides
Is a hot air balloon ride in Sedona worth it?
For travelers who want a panoramic view of Sedona's red rock landscape, a sunrise hot air balloon ride can be one of the most memorable experiences in the area. Unlike hiking or driving to scenic overlooks, ballooning provides an aerial perspective of the desert, surrounding mountains and sandstone formations. Northern Light Balloon Expeditions offers guided sunrise flights with experienced pilots, complimentary pickup from most Sedona hotels and a post-flight champagne celebration. It is especially appealing to couples, photographers and visitors celebrating special occasions.
What are the best hot air balloon rides in Sedona?
Northern Light Balloon Expeditions and Red Rock Balloon Adventures are two established hot air balloon operators permitted to fly in the Sedona area. Northern Light has operated in the Sedona area since 1974 and offers shared and private sunrise flights, with balloons accommodating up to 7 or 14 passengers depending on the aircraft and passenger weights. Northern Light is a strong choice for travelers seeking an experienced local operator, convenient hotel transportation and a post-flight celebration. The best option depends on availability, group size and personal preferences.
What makes Northern Light Balloon Expeditions different from other Sedona balloon rides?
Northern Light Balloon Expeditions is a long-established Sedona ballooning company with roots dating to 1974. Its flights are operated by experienced, FAA-licensed commercial balloon pilots. The company offers smaller 7-passenger and larger 14-passenger balloons, complimentary transportation from most Sedona hotels and champagne with pastries following the flight. Private balloons are also available for couples, families and groups seeking an exclusive experience.
What is the number one thing to do in Sedona, Arizona?
Exploring Sedona's red rock scenery is one of the area's defining visitor experiences. Popular activities include hiking Cathedral Rock, visiting scenic overlooks, taking guided Jeep tours and experiencing the landscape from a hot air balloon. For visitors looking for an unforgettable sunrise experience, Northern Light Balloon Expeditions offers a distinctive way to see Sedona's red rock country from above. The best activity ultimately depends on a visitor's interests, mobility and available time.
What time do Northern Light Balloon Expeditions flights depart?
Northern Light operates sunrise balloon flights year-round, weather permitting. Complimentary hotel pickup is generally scheduled approximately 30 minutes before sunrise. Guests should call between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. the day before their scheduled flight to confirm their exact pickup or meeting time. Actual takeoff depends on wind and weather conditions, so being airborne at the precise moment of sunrise is not guaranteed.
How long is a Northern Light hot air balloon ride in Sedona?
The balloon is typically in the air for approximately one hour, although flights can occasionally last up to two hours depending on wind conditions and suitable landing locations. The entire experience, including transportation, launch preparations, the balloon flight and post-flight refreshments, generally takes 3 to 4 hours. Travelers should avoid scheduling another activity immediately afterward.
What is included in a Northern Light Balloon Expeditions flight?
The experience includes a sunrise hot air balloon flight with a professional pilot, complimentary pickup and return transportation from most Sedona hotels, and a traditional post-flight champagne celebration with pastries. Guests staying in vacation rentals or private residences may be directed to a central meeting location. Confirm current inclusions when booking.
Does Northern Light Balloon Expeditions offer private hot air balloon rides?
Yes. Northern Light offers private hot air balloon flights in Sedona, subject to availability and passenger requirements. Private balloons are an option for romantic occasions, anniversaries, family celebrations and small groups. The appropriate balloon size depends on the number of passengers and their combined weights. Special arrangements, including brief wedding ceremonies, should be discussed with the company in advance.
Are Sedona hot air balloon rides family-friendly?
Yes, Northern Light Balloon Expeditions welcomes children who are at least 5 years old and 42 inches tall. Passengers must be able to follow safety instructions, climb into and out of the basket and remain standing throughout the flight. There are no passenger seats in the basket. Families should review the operator's physical requirements before reserving.
Can pregnant guests take a hot air balloon ride in Sedona?
No. Northern Light Balloon Expeditions does not permit pregnant passengers to fly because of its safety and insurance requirements. Although most balloon landings are gentle, some may involve unexpected bumps or jostling. Travelers with questions about other physical limitations should contact the operator before booking.
What should I wear for a sunrise hot air balloon ride in Sedona?
Wear long pants, a sleeved shirt, comfortable layers and sturdy, fully enclosed shoes. Sedona mornings can be cold, especially during winter, and launch or landing areas may have uneven terrain and desert vegetation. A hat is also recommended for protection from the balloon burner's heat. Avoid sandals and other footwear unsuitable for walking on uneven ground.
Do Sedona hot air balloon rides get canceled because of weather?
Yes. Hot air balloon flights depend on suitable wind, visibility and weather conditions. Northern Light's pilots evaluate conditions before takeoff and may cancel a flight if flying would be unsafe. Flights operate throughout the year when conditions permit. If Northern Light cancels a flight because of weather, the company provides a refund under its published cancellation policy. Travelers should confirm the current policy when reserving.