There are all kinds of ways to experience the beauty of the Tahoe-Truckee region — you’ve probably heard of or done many: by car, by foot, by bike, by boat, on skis or a snowboard, paddling on a kayak or stand up paddleboard. They each afford a different perspective of the alpine lakes that stretch miles, a chance to enjoy the stunning peaks punctuated by beautiful valley floors.
But there’s a unique full-bodied sensational experience that many don’t mention: soaking in the vastness of the region via hot air balloon. During summer weekends if you’re out at dawn for a morning run or walk you can catch the hot air balloons cresting over Lake Tahoe, just the sound of hot air blazing as they rise up with the sun.
If you’re looking for a romantic date (day) activity — you want to surprise your sweetie with an epic Lake Tahoe experience, a special friend who deserves a once-in-a-lifetime experience, then be sure to book a hot air balloon ride. Check out Lake Tahoe Balloons for their incredible panoramic tours! For these four hour roundtrip tours (on clear days) you can see Yosemite peaks and coastal foothills over 150 miles away! Tours begin at 5:15am, so if you’re not a morning person just know it’s worth the grogginess as you experience Tahoe's breathtaking natural beauty from high above.