Take A Scenic Hot Air Balloon Ride Over The Forests And Inland Lakes Of Oregon

I have experienced enough of nature to wonder if there is anything more astounding than viewing it from a scenic hot air balloon ride over Oregon. Vista Balloon Adventures launches from Newberg, Oregon, about 35 minutes from Portland, and offers the most stunning, panoramic views of Oregon's Willamette Valley wine country, with its forests and inland lakes. Willamette Valley is home to more than 700 wineries and is divided into 11 American Viticultural Areas (AVAs), which are grape-growing regions with specific geographic features that affect how grapes are grown. Because of the special climates required, the area is rich in mountains and ridges, such as Dundee Hills, Ribbon Ridge, Parrett Mountain, Mt. Pisgah Laurel Mountain, and the Cascade Mountains. It is also home to several lakes and rivers meandering through the agriculturally-abundant region. Treat yourself to a new perspective, and book a scenic hot air balloon ride over Oregon.

Vista Balloon Adventures offers one-hour flights.

But plan on at least two hours for the entire experience of check-in, balloon inflation, the flight, balloon deflation, and the van ride back to the launching field.

The setup sight of inflating the hot air balloons to more than 100 feet tall is amazing in itself, as is the all-volunteer flight crew.

The ascension begins shortly after sunrise, heading over and into the vast wine country.

The company has six balloons and baskets ranging in size to accommodate two passengers to 10, excluding the pilot.

Up to 42 people can ride, so bring your entire wedding party for this amazing experience.

And off you go.

Over the treetops gives a fresh, new perspective.

And a view from above makes you feel so tiny.

Without a minimum age requirement, passengers must be at least 40 inches tall to see over the side of the basket.

From below, watch as the colorful patterns reflect the warm sunlight.

Relax in the air as the balloon lifts you over the gorgeous Willamette Valley wine country.

Get ready to drop down near the lake below.

What possible worries can remain in this calming space?

The misty scene allows for an escape into another world meant for dreaming.

Vista Balloon Adventures flies most weekends between April and October, with some weekday tours in nicer weather. The 2022 season is sold out, and bookings are available for 2023. Be sure to make your reservation for an adventurous scenic hot air balloon ride over Oregon. For another exciting adventure in Oregon, check out the indoor skydiving experience iFLY Portland.