There is no hotel pick up for your exciting Balloon Ride over Edmonton. Make sure you call the Flight Line number given on your booking voucher the day before your flight to check the flight status and meeting time. On the day, you should make your way to the meeting point at West mount Shopping Center for the pick up. You will then be driven to the launch site, where your flight crew will brief you on your upcoming adventure.
You can watch the thrilling sight of your balloon taking shape before your eyes, ultimately standing more than 10 stories tall. Once it is fully inflated and ready for take-off, you climb into the gondola for the start of a magical journey.
Edmonton is the capital of the province of Alberta and is an important center for the oil industry. During your dawn flight of around 1 hour's duration, you will get bird's-eye views of the urban area and the fertile farmland around it.
Notice that Edmonton has fewer high rise buildings than many other major cities. Surrounded by flat land on all sides, there has been less incentive to build upward than elsewhere. Landmark buildings you may be able to see include: the CN Tower, Hotel McLeod, Manu life Place, Telus House .
From your vantage point in the balloon, you can also trace the course of the North Saskatchewan River.
You fly with the prevailing winds, so the flight patterns and landing sites will vary according to changing wind directions. There is no wind chill and very little feeling of movement or sensation of height.
After about an hour's tranquil flight (the exact time depends on the winds) your pilot will prepare for landing.
Once on the ground, you will share in the oldest of ballooning traditions, a Champagne toast to celebrate a successful flight. Soft drinks are also available.
You will then board the vehicle and will be dropped back at the meeting point at West mount Shopping Center.