Overview
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Experience the untamed beauty of the Black Hills from a hot air balloon! Located in Custer, SD, near Custer State Park, our launch sites are just miles from iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Wind Cave National Park.
Soar over rugged granite peaks, sweeping valleys, and serene lakes, enjoying a bird's-eye view of abundant wildlife like roaming buffalo, elk, and antelope. There is nowhere else in the world where you can witness this historic, wild landscape from such an incredible vantage point.
Established in 1984, our pilots' unmatched expertise in navigating the region's unique microclimates makes us the premier ballooning company in the Black Hills, consistently recognized as a Top 10 U.S. flight.
Our daily sunrise flights (weather permitting) feature approximately one hour in the air, culminating in a traditional champagne celebration, light snacks, and a souvenir certificate.
Phone hours: 8am - 8pm daily.
Additional Info
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Minimum age is 4 years
Black Hills Balloons will text and email the day before the flight before 6.30 pm for a flight status update and weather check.
What To Expect
Make your own way to the centrally located meeting point in Custer, SD. From here, you will be taken to the launch site where the crew will begin the task of unloading and preparing your balloon. Take part in a short safety briefing and enjoy photo opportunities as the balloon is being inflated.
Black Hills National Forest
Once the balloon is ready, you’ll gently take to the skies for an approximate 1-hour flight over the Black Hills National Forest. If you are new to ballooning, you’ll be surprised at the silence and serenity you’ll find high above the treetops. It’s truly magical. Upon landing, the ground crew will pack the balloon while you and your pilot celebrate the flight with complimentary champagne, light snacks and a story about the origin of hot air ballooning. Flights depart at sunrise and are weather dependent and always at the discretion of your experienced pilot.
Options
Hot Air Balloon Ride
What‘s Included
Bottled water
All Fees and Taxes
Hot Air Balloon Flight
Glass of Champagne
Hotel pick up and drop-off
Gratuities
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
485 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Amazing experience!
ceesenmariscav,Jun 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00What an amazing experience!! We went on June 14 with Damien and his crew. It was a cold, but clear morning. From the meeting point, we went to the landing place. It is the complete experience, from making the balloon ready for take off till coming back at the meeting point. The lift of is so smooth, you float into the air. The landing was smooth as well and there was champagne, nice snacks and a certificate. Super well arranged and a memory for life!! Thanks Damien and the whole crew Cees and Marisca (The Dutchies 😁)
Canceled due to weather
Sam P,Jun 12, 2026
- Review from Viator
3.00This attraction is totally dependent on the weather conditions. We were unable to participate due to strong winds. However we very much appreciate the safety concerns and not taking any chances
Breathtaking Beauty of the Hills
troymL4664UB,Jun 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Black Hills Balloon put on an amazing performance of spectacular art and technical skill. Damien and his crew helped fulfill a ‘bucket list’ experience for my wife and me. I have been fortunate in coming to the Hills since 1968. The Black Hills has always been an enchanting place for me. From the glittering, mineral-rich, rock formations to the majestic wildlife, Black Hills Balloon was able to showcase the breathtaking beauty of the Hills through the first-light glimpses of a sunrise. Damien and his crew made us feel safe and secure as they worked seamlessly from setup to touchdown. His, Irish-accented, storytelling and narration was informative and humorous. We can’t wait until our next flight. Thank you to Black Hills Balloon for an amazing experience!
teenagers enjoyed
juliepF6367UZ,Jun 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00My teens enjoyed this flight and these days it is difficult to impress teenagers! We met with the pilot well beforehand and had a chance to visit and ask questions. I felt confident they would be safe and all had a great experience. Snacks and orange juice for them after the landing.
Fantastic ride
Escape01390378493,Jun 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We took the sunrise balloon tour and it was fantastic. Damien and his crew were great. The view of GOD'S creation was fantastic in the early morning. We didn't want the ride to stop. Great end to our vacation in the Black Hills SD. Would do it all again. PFW
The Black Hills from Above
realtywithstephanie,Jun 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The Black Hills of South Dakota are vast, beautiful, and spiritual all at once. Damien and the crew create an immersive experience that gave me a new point of view of one of my favorite places on earth. Watching the crew work together to get our balloon and basket prepared for the trip was incredible and nine of us took flight to experience the hills from new heights. As we rose, it got warmer, the sun began to rise and we got to see Custer, the ponderosa pines, and the community that calls the southern black hills home wake up for another beautiful day. About an hour later, we landed for celebratory snacks and the history of how balloons began in aviation. Thank you Black Hills Balloons team, this experience was second to none!
It is definitely worth...
Cynthia M,May 27, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It is definitely worth getting up early for this experience. Watching the balloon get set up, the ride, champagne toast afterwards while the crew loads up the balloon is an experience of a lifetime. If it's not on your bucket list, it should be.
Wonderful
294jerseyb,May 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The experience was terrific. You’re a staff just wonderful and pleasant. The organization of your company is exceptional. My brother and I travel a lot and we are so happy with our ride. Thank you forthe champagne Susan.
Don’t miss the opportunity
Kenneth C,May 24, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Breathtaking and beautiful. Must experience it as it’s difficult to describe. An unforgettable experience and my wife and I will do it again and again where it is available during our future travels
Fantastic experience
Andrea W,May 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a wonderful experience with Black Hills Balloons and Damian’s team! Everyone was professional, friendly, and made the entire experience seamless from start to finish. The online booking process was easy and convenient, the hot air balloon ride itself was absolutely phenomenal, and the complimentary champagne and snacks after landing were a perfect touch. The team created a fun, safe, and memorable adventure that we will never forget. Highly recommended!
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