How would you like to soar high above the mountains and valleys of the Arizona Desert, flirting with the clouds before descending back to ground level to enjoy a gourmet brunch? Hot Air Expeditions, Phoenix and Tucson's premier hot air balloon outfitter, offers that exact experience... and the views are unbelievable.

For 30 years and counting, the family-owned and operated Hot Air Expeditions has offered unforgettable Hot Air Balloon rides over Phoenix and Tucson.

Whether it's a special occasion or a random day, watching the sunrise over the vast and rugged Sonoran Desert is the experience of a lifetime.

Your adventure begins bright and early in the morning, when you'll stand watch as the flight crew inflates the balloon.

It takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, and upon completion, you'll join the pilot in the oversized wicker basket.

From there, it's up, up, and away as the balloon lifts off and soars up to 3,000 feet above the Valley.

Unobstructed, 360-degree views throughout the entire flight make for truly breathtaking photographs, so don't forget to bring a camera!

From flirting with the clouds to hovering just 400 feet above the desert floor, your pilot will take you through a whole range of views.

You'll see all sorts of flora and fauna native to the Sonoran Desert - likely from a whole new perspective.

Upon landing, first-time flyers will be treated to the iconic Balloonists Ceremony that balloonists from all over the world have been partaking in for more than a century.

After that, you'll officially get inducted into the ballooning society and receive a special certificate that lets the whole world know of your achievement.

Perhaps the most unique part of the Hot Air Expeditions experience is the post-ride brunch.

The menu includes a Southwestern-style vegetable quiche, warm croissants, soft cheese, fresh fruit, and - of course - plenty of champagne, sparkling cider, and orange juice.

There are even special wedding packages that allow you to get married above the clouds!

Couples can choose from three different levels of luxury, with amenities such as a post-flight meal and champagne toast, custom bridal bouquet and groom boutonniere, photography coverage, and more. There's also a reception-only package if you have a wedding venue in mind but want something a little different for the afterparty.

Tucson riders will meet at the Marana Airport, and Deer Valley Airport is the Phoenix liftoff point. Morning balloon rides are available 363 days per year (excluding Christmas and Thanksgiving), while afternoon rides are offered from November until March. Visit the Hot Air Expeditions website or Facebook page for more information, including pricing.

Have you ever taken a ride with Hot Air Expeditions? If so, we'd love to hear all about your experience in the comments section below! Let us know, then check out our previous article for another epic way to experience the Arizona desert from up high.